Core Insights - The article highlights a significant decline in the number of hair salons in China, with over 300,000 expected to close this year, and 224,000 having already been deregistered or revoked in the first nine months [3][25]. Industry Trends - The hair salon industry is experiencing a trend of low-price attraction followed by high-pressure sales tactics, leading to customer dissatisfaction and mistrust [5][9]. - Many salons are employing deceptive practices, such as misleading pricing and aggressive upselling, which have contributed to a negative reputation for the industry [11][19]. Customer Behavior - Customers are increasingly wary of prepaid card schemes, fearing that their money will be lost if the salon closes shortly after purchase [11][21]. - There is a noticeable shift in customer behavior, with some opting for home haircuts or cheaper local salons to avoid high-pressure sales environments [21][25]. Successful Business Models - A few salons, like one run by a stylist named Xiaohua, are thriving by focusing on transparency, clear pricing, and genuine customer service, demonstrating that honesty and skill can lead to success in the industry [23][25]. - Long-standing salons that prioritize customer trust and avoid deceptive practices continue to perform well, indicating that there is still demand for quality hair services [27][29].

Core Insights - The hairdressing industry is facing a significant crisis, with over 300,000 closures expected in 2024 and 87,000 in 2023, indicating a major industry reshuffle [2][8] - The decline is attributed to excessive upselling practices, rising operational costs, and increased competition from low-cost alternatives [3][5][9] Industry Challenges - **Excessive Upselling**: Many hair salons have shifted from providing basic services to aggressive upselling, leading to a loss of customer trust and a decline in repeat business [2][3] - **Rising Costs**: Operational costs, including rent and wages, are increasing, particularly in first-tier cities, putting financial pressure on salons [3][5] - **Intense Competition**: The emergence of low-cost quick-cut salons has attracted price-sensitive customers, further straining traditional salons [3][5] Economic Factors - **Economic Downturn**: The overall economic environment is contributing to the decline, with rising unemployment and reduced consumer spending impacting the hairdressing sector [5][9] - **Consumer Behavior Changes**: Post-pandemic, consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending, leading to longer intervals between haircuts [5][8] Market Dynamics - **Market Segmentation**: There is a clear divide in the market, with low-end quick-cut salons remaining busy while mid-range salons struggle due to poor service quality and high prices [6][8] - **Trust and Value**: The industry is losing customer trust due to poor service experiences, which is essential for retaining clientele [6][9] Future Outlook - **Need for Industry Reform**: The industry must return to its core values of providing quality service at reasonable prices to survive the ongoing crisis [6][9] - **Potential for Recovery**: Some salons that simplify their services and focus on customer satisfaction are finding stability, suggesting a path forward for the industry [6][9]

Core Insights - The article highlights a surge in consumer spending among graduates following the 2025 college entrance examination, indicating a new trend in youth consumption characterized by diverse spending on skill training, leisure, and cultural tourism [1] Group 1: Beauty and Personal Care - There has been a noticeable increase in the number of students visiting beauty salons for hair dyeing and styling after the exams, with some salons extending their hours to accommodate the demand [2] - The average budget for hair-related services is around 300 yuan, while spending on new clothing and shoes can reach approximately 2000 yuan [3] - Medical beauty procedures, such as teeth correction and double eyelid surgery, are becoming increasingly popular among graduates, with budgets ranging from 3000 to 10000 yuan [3] Group 2: Skill Acquisition - Many graduates are opting to learn new skills during their break, leading to a 30% increase in driving school enrollments post-exams [4] - Swimming facilities have also seen a 40% increase in customer volume, with special programs tailored for graduates [4] Group 3: Travel and Leisure - Travel has become a popular choice for relaxation among graduates, with travel agencies reporting early bookings and special discounts for students [5] - Data from travel platforms indicates a 22% year-on-year increase in hotel bookings for travelers aged 22-25, with long-distance travel ticket bookings up by 35% [5][6] - Popular travel destinations include major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, reflecting a trend towards experiential travel among young consumers [6] Group 4: Economic and Cultural Implications - The "post-exam economy" is not only an economic phenomenon but also a cultural one, reflecting societal values around education and future aspirations [8] - There is a call for regulatory measures to ensure healthy market development and to prevent exploitative practices disguised as "post-exam economy" promotions [8]