Core Viewpoint - Balenciaga has launched a new foldable tote bag named Marché, priced at 8200 yuan, which resembles a plastic bag but is made from high-strength Dyneema fabric capable of holding up to 10 kilograms [3][4]. Product Details - The Marché tote bag measures 53 cm in height, 50 cm in length, and 1 cm in width, closely mimicking the appearance of a plastic bag, including its creases [3]. - Currently, the bag is listed as out of stock on the official website and app, with customer service indicating it may not have arrived yet [4][6]. Historical Context - This is not the first time Balenciaga has released a product resembling a plastic bag; in May 2017, they introduced a bag that looked like IKEA's blue shopping bag, priced at 2145 USD (approximately 14508 yuan), which generated significant online buzz [7]. - In the fall of 2022, Balenciaga's new bag, named "Trash Pouch," drew attention for its resemblance to a garbage bag, retailing at 1790 USD (around 12000 yuan) [9]. Recent Developments - In June 2023, a bag named "Beijing Roast Duck" faced criticism from consumers, with a retail price of 15500 yuan, made from high-quality Italian leather [12]. - Balenciaga's flagship store in Beijing opened on May 27, 2025, coinciding with the release of limited edition items, although the specific bag was not available on the website [14]. Financial Performance - Kering Group, Balenciaga's parent company, reported a 16% decline in sales for the first half of 2025, totaling 7.6 billion euros, with net profit plummeting by 46% to 474 million euros [14].

Core Insights - Balenciaga has launched a "Peking Duck" bag priced at 15,500 yuan, which has sparked criticism from netizens due to its resemblance to a snack bag [1] - The bag features a duck graphic and nutritional information on the back, and is part of a limited edition series to celebrate the opening of the flagship store in Beijing [1] - The brand's recent product designs have faced public scrutiny, including a skirt likened to men's underwear and an overpriced hairpin [3][5] Financial Performance - Kering Group, Balenciaga's parent company, reported a 14% decline in total revenue for Q1 2025, amounting to 3.883 billion euros (approximately 31.9 billion yuan) [6] - Revenue from the Asia-Pacific market fell by 25%, while Europe and North America saw a 13% decline, and Japan experienced an 11% drop [6] - The segment including Balenciaga and McQueen generated 733 million euros (approximately 6 billion yuan), reflecting an 11% decrease year-over-year [6]