Group 1 - The consumption market during the Dragon Boat Festival was active, with sales reaching 4.18 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 1.6% [1] - There is a noticeable trend of consumers shifting from "novelty" to "practicality" in their preferences for seasonal foods, with a growing emphasis on health, particularly low glycemic index (GI) options [3][4] - Sales of zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) saw significant growth, with platforms like Dingdong Maicai reporting over 20% year-on-year increase in sales, and a 43% increase in sales volume in the week leading up to the festival [2][3] Group 2 - Low GI zongzi have gained popularity, with new products being developed that replace traditional glutinous rice with healthier grains like oat rice and include low GI certified ingredients [3][4] - The trend towards health-conscious food options is not limited to zongzi, as traditional festival foods like mooncakes and yuanxiao are also expected to evolve towards healthier and more nutritious versions [4] - Consumers are increasingly willing to spend on products that enhance the ritualistic aspects of traditional festivals, such as艾草 (mugwort) and香囊 (fragrant sachets), indicating a growing appreciation for cultural significance [5][6]

Group 1 - The consumption of zongzi (rice dumplings) has significantly increased during the Dragon Boat Festival, with some e-commerce platforms reporting a sales increase of 70% [1][3] - The overall trend in zongzi consumption is towards health-conscious and specialty products in both B2B and B2C markets [1][4] - Dingdong Maicai has launched over 20 different flavors of zongzi, including traditional and regional specialties, expecting a sales growth of over 20% year-on-year during the festival [3][4] Group 2 - The "6.18" promotion has further boosted zongzi sales, with Tmall reporting a nearly 70% increase in transaction value for zongzi [3][5] - Low GI (glycemic index) zongzi is increasingly popular among consumers, with a significant rise in sales of health-oriented zongzi, such as those containing probiotics and high fiber [3][4] - The demand for unique and innovative zongzi flavors is growing, with Tmall offering over 100 varieties and a notable preference for these among consumers aged 30-40 [5]

Market Overview - The zongzi market in China is expected to exceed 10 billion yuan in 2024 and reach over 11 billion yuan in 2025, driven by the influence of traditional culture and innovative marketing strategies from various brands [1] - The market features a wide variety of zongzi, including classic products from well-known brands like Wufangzhai, Sanquan, and Sinian, as well as new products that explore traditional culture and cross-industry innovations [1] Consumer Preferences - Traditional flavors remain popular among consumers, with classic combinations like meat zongzi with salted egg yolk being a must-buy for many during the Dragon Boat Festival [3] - There is a growing trend towards rational shopping, with consumers opting for smaller combination packs of zongzi to meet health needs and avoid waste, making them popular for gifting [7] Product Innovations - Creative innovations in the zongzi market include products like Qingdao Beer’s zongzi with beer filling and Starbucks’ "Star Ice Zongzi," which combines various flavors to appeal to younger consumers [9][12] - Health-conscious options such as low-GI zongzi made with oat rice and added beans have gained popularity, with some products selling nearly 1,000 units daily [12] Regional and Online Sales Trends - Regional specialty zongzi have seen a surge in online sales, with platforms like Tmall supporting local shops and showcasing unique flavors during promotional events [15][17] - The number of zongzi-related companies in China has reached 5,012, with a significant concentration in provinces like Zhejiang, Shandong, and Guangdong [21] Pricing and Market Competition - Traditional zongzi from well-known brands are priced affordably, with average prices ranging from 6 to 15 yuan per piece, while online platforms often offer lower prices due to promotions [20][21] - The competitive landscape is marked by price wars among zongzi vendors, reflecting a diverse consumer market and the need for brands to adapt to changing consumer preferences [20][21]