Core Insights - The prepared food market in 2024 has reached a scale of 485 billion yuan, with a year-on-year growth rate of 33.8%, indicating a robust upward trend in the industry [2] - By 2026, the market size is expected to exceed 749 billion yuan, reflecting ongoing opportunities despite a shift in market dynamics from rapid expansion to a focus on product quality [2] - The industry is undergoing a structural transformation, emphasizing product freshness, taste restoration, and differentiated competitive advantages [2][3] Market Trends - The trend is shifting from traditional cold storage display to experiential consumption models, with new retail platforms like Hema and Sam's Club enhancing their offerings in fresh and ready-to-eat meals [3] - Convenience stores are focusing on ready-to-eat meals, leveraging cold chain systems to penetrate high-frequency consumption scenarios such as breakfast and late-night snacks [3] - The prepared food sector is evolving from a mere efficiency-driven business to a comprehensive upgrade battle centered around product quality and consumer trust [4] Innovation and Consumer Preferences - There is a growing consumer demand for not just convenience but also taste, health, and freshness, leading to a shift in market expectations from scale replication to quality breakthroughs [5][7] - The focus on "fresh food" is driving the industry towards new growth opportunities, with trends like short shelf life and regional flavors emerging [2][5] - Packaging innovations are crucial for enhancing consumer experience, with new solutions that facilitate immediate consumption without the need for thawing or unpacking [7] Event and Collaboration - An innovation event titled "New 'Taste' of Prepared Food" is scheduled for September 12, focusing on category innovation, packaging upgrades, and consumer scenario development [4][9] - The event aims to gather industry leaders to explore new growth paths and product innovations in the prepared food sector [4][9] - Collaboration with Amcor, a leader in packaging solutions, highlights the importance of packaging in meeting consumer needs and enhancing product experience [10]