Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "discount supermarkets" that have become popular among working-class individuals, highlighting their strategies for attracting customers through late-night discounts and the cultural shift in consumer behavior towards seeking value in food purchases [6][29]. Group 1: Consumer Behavior - Working-class individuals have adapted to shopping at supermarkets after hours to take advantage of discounts on perishable goods, transforming their shopping experience into a form of entertainment [6][8]. - Social media challenges related to late-night shopping have emerged, showcasing the excitement of finding bargains and the community aspect of this shopping behavior [8][27]. - The types of products being purchased have shifted from traditional staples to more gourmet items like sushi and baked goods, indicating a change in consumer preferences [23][25]. Group 2: Supermarket Strategies - Supermarkets like Hema, Yonghui, and Walmart are implementing strategies to manage food waste and ensure freshness by offering discounts on items nearing their expiration dates [34][41]. - The article notes that these supermarkets are not only responding to consumer demand for lower prices but are also addressing food safety concerns by promoting fresh and safe food options [29][30]. - The "discount supermarket" model is not a new concept but has been adapted from smaller businesses that have long utilized similar strategies to minimize waste and attract price-sensitive customers [42][45]. Group 3: Market Trends - The market for near-expiry food products is growing, with the industry expected to reach a scale of 401 billion yuan by 2025, reflecting a significant shift in consumer attitudes towards food waste and value [50][51]. - The rise of online platforms and apps for purchasing discounted food items indicates a trend towards digital solutions in the food retail sector, catering to the needs of budget-conscious consumers [48][49].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the potential for the emergence of numerous baking unicorns in the domestic market, highlighting the importance of strategic vision, innovative brand marketing, and operational management capabilities in the baking industry [1]. Group 1: Company Overview - "Kifukudo," a bakery established in 1916, has maintained its traditional flavors and products, particularly the red bean bun, for over a century [5][10]. - The current owner, Ikufumi Kaneko, represents the fourth generation of the family business, which has adapted to modern challenges while preserving its heritage [12][13]. - The bakery has a rich history, including relocation after the 1923 Kanto earthquake and a name change in 1961 to "Kifukudo," reflecting the founder's and his wife's names [15][16]. Group 2: Product Innovation - The red bean bun is a signature product, known for its unique recipe that balances rock sugar and white sugar for optimal taste [32]. - The bakery emphasizes high-quality ingredients, sourcing red beans from Hokkaido, specifically the Tokachi region, to ensure superior flavor [36][38]. - Kifukudo has expanded its product line by incorporating seasonal ingredients and variations of the red bean filling, showcasing innovation while honoring tradition [42][68]. Group 3: Business Strategy - The bakery's strategy includes maintaining classic products while diversifying offerings to meet customer preferences, similar to how other successful brands have expanded their product families [68]. - Seasonal adaptations and the introduction of new products, such as cream buns, are part of the strategy to sustain growth and customer interest [70]. - The company aims to create a welcoming shopping environment, enhancing customer experience through store renovations and an improved online purchasing system [56][58].