Core Insights - The 2026 Innovation Exchange Conference for Time-Honored Brands was held in Beijing, focusing on digital transformation and AI-driven business strategies for traditional brands [1] - Time-honored brands are increasingly leveraging digital innovation to connect with younger consumers, with significant growth in search volume and transaction rates on platforms like Meituan [1][2] Group 1: Digital Transformation - Time-honored brands are adopting digital transformation as a core strategy to enhance their business models and reach new customer segments [1] - The China Commercial Association has initiated a digitalization project, providing free digital service packages to dozens of time-honored brands over three years [1] - Over half of the time-honored brands are utilizing AI tools to assist in operational decision-making, combining traditional experience with data-driven insights [2] Group 2: Consumer Engagement - The appeal of time-honored brands to younger consumers is increasing, with a nearly ninefold growth in search volume on Meituan and a stable annual compound growth rate of over 27% in transaction value [1][2] - The proportion of consumers under 35 years old engaging with these brands has reached 48.5% [1] - Cultural value monetization is a key trend, exemplified by Quanjude's "Sky Courtyard" concept, which has led to a 25% increase in average transaction value and an 18% rise in repurchase rates [2] Group 3: Operational Efficiency - The integration of digital technologies has significantly reduced operational costs for time-honored brands, with AI handling a growing number of customer inquiries, especially during peak periods [2] - Digital tools are enhancing dining experiences by streamlining service processes, improving table turnover rates, and accumulating valuable customer data [2] - The future collaboration between platforms and time-honored brands will focus on enhancing scenarios, experiences, and technology [2]