Core Viewpoint - The rise of purchasing agents in county-level cities is significantly impacting traditional supermarkets, as consumers increasingly seek higher quality products and unique shopping experiences [11][12][22]. Group 1: Consumer Behavior - Many consumers in county-level cities are turning to purchasing agents for products from brands like Sam's Club and Pang Donglai, driven by the desire for quality and variety [2][8]. - A survey indicated that 68% of county consumers choose purchasing agents to buy items unavailable locally, while 55% trust the quality of these brands [11]. - The purchasing behavior reflects a shift towards higher quality expectations, with consumers no longer satisfied with the offerings of traditional supermarkets [12][20]. Group 2: Impact on Traditional Supermarkets - Traditional supermarkets are experiencing a significant decline in customer traffic, with over 60% of operators reporting a drop of around 20% in recent years [21]. - The competition from purchasing agents has led to a loss of approximately 30% of mid-to-high-end customers for some traditional stores [9][21]. - Traditional supermarkets face challenges such as low supply chain efficiency, high procurement costs, and a lack of digitalization, which hinder their ability to compete effectively [18][19]. Group 3: Market Trends - The county retail market is evolving, with consumers adopting shopping habits similar to those in first- and second-tier cities due to improved internet access and logistics [20]. - The future of county retail is expected to focus on online-offline integration, differentiated positioning, and community-based services [21][22]. - Traditional supermarkets must adapt by understanding local consumer needs and offering tailored products and services to survive in the changing market landscape [23].