Core Viewpoint - The competition landscape for Chinese cleaning appliance manufacturers has shifted from online traffic and technology iteration in the domestic market to channel coverage and service capabilities in overseas markets like Vietnam [1][14]. Group 1: Market Dynamics in Vietnam - In Vietnam, the sales strategy for cleaning appliances, particularly robotic vacuums, relies heavily on offline channels, with approximately 70% of sales coming from physical stores [6][10]. - The local market is characterized by a trust network built on specific locations and personal relationships, making face-to-face service crucial for consumer confidence [9][12]. - The penetration rate of robotic vacuums in Vietnam is currently below 10%, indicating significant growth potential as the market matures [16][18]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Chinese brands like Ecovacs, Roborock, and others have captured over 80% of the Southeast Asian robotic vacuum market, with Ecovacs holding a market share exceeding 40% in Vietnam [6][13]. - The competitive pressure from traditional brands like iRobot has diminished in the robotic vacuum segment, allowing Chinese companies to dominate [13][14]. Group 3: Sales and Distribution Strategy - Ecovacs employs a "single country single agent" model in Vietnam, partnering with a local distributor to manage marketing, sales, and after-sales service, which allows for a more localized approach [11][12]. - The company has established over 1,000 sales points in Vietnam, primarily through small family-run stores, enhancing community engagement and trust [10][12]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The cleaning appliance industry is expected to experience intense competition for the next three to five years, with opportunities for growth in overseas markets as domestic markets stabilize [16][17]. - The average income in Vietnam allows consumers to invest in cleaning appliances, with a willingness to spend on products that enhance their lifestyle [13][16].

Core Insights - The article discusses the strategic shift of Chinese cleaning appliance manufacturers, particularly Ecovacs, in adapting their business model for the Vietnamese market, emphasizing the importance of offline sales and local trust networks over online sales strategies that dominate in China [3][4][5][10]. Group 1: Market Entry Strategy - Ecovacs has opened a new store in Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing its products alongside its sister brand, Tineco, with prices for popular models ranging from approximately 2,600 RMB to 6,000 RMB [2]. - The company has established over 1,000 sales points in Vietnam, primarily through a "single country single agent" model, allowing a local distributor to manage marketing, sales, and after-sales service [7][8]. - The Vietnamese market is characterized by a high reliance on offline sales, with about 70% of Ecovacs' sales coming from physical stores, contrasting with the online-heavy strategy used in China [3][4]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics - Vietnamese consumers exhibit a high acceptance of new technology, with a significant portion of their income allocated to consumption, making them willing to invest in cleaning appliances [10]. - The retail environment in Vietnam is shaped by a trust-based network, where consumers prefer to purchase from local stores where they can establish personal relationships with sellers [5][9]. - The market for robotic vacuum cleaners in Vietnam is expected to grow significantly, with retail sales projected to increase by over 70% year-on-year in the first half of 2025 [10]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Ecovacs currently holds over 40% market share in Vietnam, competing primarily with other Chinese brands like Roborock and Dreame, as well as the American brand iRobot [11][12]. - The competitive focus has shifted from online traffic and pricing in China to channel coverage and service capabilities in Vietnam [12][20]. - The overall market for cleaning appliances in Vietnam remains underpenetrated, with a current penetration rate of less than 10% for robotic vacuums, indicating substantial growth potential [17]. Group 4: Production and Product Strategy - Companies like Roborock have begun establishing local manufacturing facilities in Vietnam to meet demand and mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions [18]. - The trend is moving towards higher-value products, with manufacturers aiming to develop multifunctional devices that can command higher prices, moving away from price wars [19]. - Ecovacs and other companies are leveraging their experience in the Chinese market to replicate successful product strategies in Vietnam, focusing on high-value offerings [20].