Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the decline of Häagen-Dazs in the Chinese market, highlighting its struggles against cheaper ice cream brands and changing consumer preferences, leading to a significant reduction in store numbers and sales [1][3][19]. Group 1: Company Performance - Häagen-Dazs' net sales in China for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025 were reported at $138 million, reflecting a year-on-year decline of approximately 3.2% [3]. - The number of Häagen-Dazs stores in mainland China has halved from 557 in 2019 to only 263 currently, indicating a severe contraction in its physical presence [4]. - The CEO of General Mills acknowledged a double-digit percentage decline in store traffic for Häagen-Dazs in China [3]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The rise of affordable ice cream brands has shifted consumer preferences, with many opting for lower-priced options, making it difficult for Häagen-Dazs to attract customers [6][29]. - Häagen-Dazs was once perceived as a luxury brand, but its image has deteriorated as consumers now view it as overpriced and outdated [22][29]. - The competitive landscape has intensified, with local brands like Zhong Xue Gao and others introducing innovative and cost-effective products that challenge Häagen-Dazs' market position [22][28]. Group 3: Consumer Sentiment - Consumers have become more price-sensitive, with many expressing disbelief at Häagen-Dazs' high prices compared to similar products available at much lower costs [21][30]. - The nostalgia associated with Häagen-Dazs has not translated into sustained consumer loyalty, as younger generations prioritize value and health in their purchasing decisions [19][30]. - The perception of Häagen-Dazs as a "high-end" product has been undermined by its recent controversies, including the use of inferior ingredients, further alienating its customer base [22][29].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing competition in the food delivery and instant retail market has intensified, with major platforms like Meituan, Taobao, and JD launching aggressive subsidy campaigns to attract users and increase order volumes [2][14][18]. Group 1: Market Competition - Meituan reported a record order volume of 1.5 billion for instant retail as of July 12, indicating strong market performance [2][16]. - Taobao's flash sales have seen significant user engagement, with daily active users exceeding 200 million and a focus on high-frequency consumer categories [2][15]. - JD has shifted its subsidy strategy to focus on high-value food items like meals and crayfish, contrasting with other platforms that emphasize beverage subsidies [2][18]. Group 2: Rider Earnings - Riders on platforms like Meituan and Ele.me have experienced substantial income growth, with weekend earnings increasing by 111% and order volume rising by 33% in July [5][3]. - Many riders reported daily earnings exceeding 800 yuan, benefiting from peak order volumes during the subsidy wars [3][5]. Group 3: Merchant Challenges - Despite increased sales due to subsidies, many merchants face profit challenges, with some reporting that increased order volumes do not translate to higher profits [9][12]. - Merchants are often required to share the cost of subsidies, leading to situations where they experience increased sales but reduced margins [12][13]. Group 4: Consumer Behavior - The consumer response to subsidy campaigns has varied by region, with riders in lower-tier cities reporting lower order volumes and subsidies compared to those in major cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou [8]. - The effectiveness of promotional strategies, such as "0 yuan purchase" offers, has been noted, with varying levels of participation and success among different merchants [16][17].