Core Insights - Discount supermarkets and bulk stores are rapidly emerging as a significant force disrupting traditional beverage channels, with a notable increase in consumer penetration in snack stores from 20% in 2023 to 40% [2][3] - Beverage brands are beginning to adapt to this channel restructuring, acknowledging the rapid growth of discount supermarkets despite initial resistance due to concerns over price disruption [3][4] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Discount stores like Haote Mai and bulk stores are selling beverages at significantly lower prices, with discounts ranging from 30% to 50% compared to convenience stores [4][10] - The sales growth in snack stores has reached 20% when comparing rolling annual sales data from June 2024 to June 2025 [2] Group 2: Brand Strategies - Major beverage companies are increasingly collaborating with discount stores to maintain market presence, with some brands adjusting their pricing strategies to align with these channels [11][12] - Companies like China Wangwang and Huanle Jia have reported significant revenue contributions from snack store channels, with Wangwang's contribution rising from 10% in 2024 to 15% in 2025 [12][14] Group 3: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are becoming more price-sensitive, often comparing prices between discount stores and traditional retailers, which is influencing purchasing decisions [10][11] - The trend of purchasing beverages with shorter shelf lives is growing, as consumers prioritize immediate consumption over long-term storage [5][7] Group 4: Product Customization - Beverage brands are developing customized products specifically for discount channels, allowing them to maintain competitive pricing while protecting traditional distribution channels [16] - Notable examples include Coca-Cola's introduction of smaller packaging sizes for discount stores, aimed at price-sensitive consumers [14][16]