Core Insights - The article discusses the significant impact of large-scale subsidies initiated by instant retail and food delivery platforms like Meituan, Taobao Flash Purchase, and JD.com on consumer spending and market competition since 2025 [1][3][9]. Group 1: Subsidy Impact on Consumer Spending - Taobao Flash Purchase coupons have shown a notable effect on increasing food delivery consumption on the Ele.me platform, with every 1 yuan of effective subsidy generating approximately 1.65 yuan in additional spending [3][15]. - The study indicates that the spillover effect of these coupons is substantial, with each 1 yuan of effective subsidy leading to an additional 6.76 yuan in total consumer spending through Alipay, including 3.11 yuan in e-commerce purchases [3][25]. - The penetration rate of Flash Purchase is positively correlated with the average weekly revenue of offline restaurants, indicating no evidence of cannibalization of dine-in services [3][39]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Competition - The competition among platforms has intensified, with daily subsidies exceeding 2 billion yuan, resulting in a surge in daily orders from 100 million to 250 million [9][49]. - Regulatory bodies have intervened to ensure fair competition and prevent improper practices, emphasizing the need for platforms to adhere to legal standards and maintain a healthy market environment [9][49]. - The article highlights the importance of self-regulation within the industry to avoid issues such as food waste and labor rights violations [4][49]. Group 3: Merchant Revenue and Market Structure - Participating merchants in the Flash Purchase program experienced an average weekly revenue increase of 1,744.69 yuan, representing a growth rate of approximately 101.5% [34][35]. - The study found that the online coupons did not negatively impact offline restaurant revenues, with some small merchants even seeing slight increases in their offline earnings [36][39]. - The positive impact of Flash Purchase coupons is more pronounced for small merchants, with a revenue increase of 44.5% for those with lower pre-launch earnings [41][46]. Group 4: Future Research Directions - The article suggests further research is needed to assess the long-term effects of these subsidy programs, including their impact on consumer behavior, merchant profitability, and market equilibrium [48][53]. - Future studies will focus on various dimensions such as the sustainability of rider income, the real profit picture for merchants, and the external costs associated with increased delivery activity [54][55][56].