Group 1 - The "618" mid-year shopping festival has commenced with a longer promotional period and simplified rules, igniting consumer enthusiasm [1][3] - Major platforms have started promotions earlier than last year, with some launching as early as May 13, 2023, and offering significant discounts [1][2] - The "trade-in" promotion has become a focal point, with platforms like Suning and Tmall offering substantial subsidies on home appliances and electronics [2][3] Group 2 - Consumer interest in "trade-in" programs is on the rise, with a reported 26.37% year-on-year increase in GMV for related keywords during the pre-sale period [2][3] - Categories such as home appliances, personal care, and pet products have shown remarkable growth, with some categories experiencing GMV increases of over 50% [2][3] - The festival's timing coincides with other consumer events, enhancing overall market activity and leading to significant sales in various sectors [3][4] Group 3 - The stable economic environment and rising income levels in China are driving consumers to spend more on quality living, smart technology, and health-related products [4] - The growth of new consumption models and digital retail channels during the "618" festival is further stimulating market vitality [4] - The overall consumption growth during "618" is expected to support the release of domestic demand potential and contribute to high-quality economic development [4]

Core Viewpoint - The rise of "near-expiry food blind boxes" is becoming a new consumption trend among young consumers, providing a dual benefit for both businesses and consumers while also raising food safety concerns [1][2]. Group 1: Business Impact - Many restaurants are adopting the near-expiry food blind box model to reduce inventory pressure and enhance brand image, effectively addressing unsold food items [1][2]. - This model allows businesses to convert potentially wasted food into consumable resources, aligning with the growing trend of environmental sustainability [2]. Group 2: Consumer Benefits - Consumers can enjoy the excitement of "unboxing" while spending less money, satisfying their desire for novelty and obtaining tangible discounts [1]. - The blind box concept resonates with younger consumers who are increasingly inclined towards green consumption practices [2]. Group 3: Food Safety Concerns - There are significant food safety issues associated with the blind box model, including inadequate disclosure of expiration dates and storage conditions, which can mislead consumers [2][3]. - The current regulatory framework is insufficient to address the dynamic nature of blind box sales, leading to potential exploitation by some businesses [2]. Group 4: Recommendations for Improvement - A standardized management system for near-expiry food should be established, including a grading system based on remaining shelf life and mandatory labeling of key information [3]. - Cold chain management practices from fresh e-commerce should be applied to ensure proper temperature control for perishable items throughout the distribution process [3]. - Businesses should prioritize food safety over short-term profits, and regulatory bodies must enforce strict compliance to protect consumer rights and ensure the integrity of the market [3].