Core Insights - The article highlights the success of a discount supermarket chain in Japan, known for its low prices and high-quality products, primarily sourced from China, and its origins in a food factory in Dalian [1][4]. Group 1: Business Model and Growth - The supermarket operates with a cost-driven "everyday low price" strategy, leveraging a self-owned supply chain to maintain competitive pricing and quality [4][8]. - From 2015 to 2024, the supermarket's net sales grew by 154.7%, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 10.9%, and it accounted for over 90% of the parent company's total sales [4][6]. - The number of stores increased from 713 to 1084 over ten years, with an average of 37 new stores added annually, indicating a steady expansion pace [4][6]. Group 2: Supply Chain and Product Strategy - The company has developed a "food production and sales integration" system over nearly 30 years, allowing it to offer low-priced, high-quality products [8][9]. - The product range includes national brand (NB) items, local private brand (PB) products, and imported PB products, focusing on uniqueness, low prices, and high quality [9][10]. - As of Q3 FY2025, the sales proportion of self-owned brands was 34.3%, with goals to increase this to over 40% by FY2026 [10]. Group 3: Franchise Model and Operations - The supermarket employs a convenience store-style franchise model, with only 4 out of over 1100 stores being company-owned, allowing for a focus on product development and support for franchisees [11][12]. - Each store typically covers an area of about 150 tsubo (approximately 490 square meters) and selects 2500 to 3000 products from a total of around 7000 SKUs [12]. - The main revenue source comes from wholesale of products produced by the company's factories and directly imported goods, rather than franchise fees [12]. Group 4: Market Adaptation and Future Plans - Initially avoiding fresh produce due to high spoilage rates, the company has adapted its strategy to include limited fresh and alcoholic products based on market trends [13][15]. - The company is expanding into the restaurant sector with new brands and aims to enhance existing stores through renovations and upgrades [13][15]. - The company strategically avoids high-rent urban areas, focusing on suburban locations and adhering to a principle of opening one store for every 50,000 residents to ensure profitability [15][16]. Group 5: Competitive Advantage - The supermarket's success is attributed to its focus on supply chain advantages and a balance between cost-effectiveness and product variety, appealing to budget-conscious families while providing a unique shopping experience [16].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the innovative marketing strategy of Haitian Flavor Industry through its sponsorship of the culinary competition show "Yi Fan Feng Shen," which aims to promote Chinese culinary culture globally while engaging younger consumers [1][3][4]. Group 1: Cultural and Brand Innovation - Haitian Flavor Industry is leveraging its 400-year history to blend culture and brand through various initiatives, including the establishment of a soy sauce culture museum and support for a global soy sauce documentary [3][4]. - The show features chefs from different regions and cultures, showcasing the integration of traditional Chinese ingredients with modern culinary techniques, thus redefining the essence of Chinese cuisine [3][4]. - The program serves as a platform for Haitian to narrate its brand story, emphasizing the balance between tradition and innovation in Chinese seasoning culture [3][4]. Group 2: Marketing Strategy - Haitian Flavor Industry has developed a comprehensive marketing ecosystem centered around "content + scene + social," effectively merging cultural dissemination with commercial value [4][5]. - The company has transformed show content into consumer engagement tools, such as the "Delicious Sealing List," which has driven traffic to restaurants featured in the show [5]. - Through events like the "Haitian Rice Festival" and interactive live cooking sessions, Haitian is enhancing brand visibility and fostering emotional connections with consumers [5][8]. Group 3: Digital Transformation and Brand Youthfulness - The company is undergoing a digital marketing strategy upgrade, moving from simple sponsorship to a full-chain approach that emphasizes interaction and participation [8]. - Haitian Flavor Industry has successfully transitioned from a traditional brand to a modern one, maintaining its core craftsmanship while appealing to younger demographics through innovative marketing campaigns [8][10]. - Initiatives like the soy sauce ice cream pop-up and educational projects aim to break stereotypes associated with traditional brands and build consumer trust [10].