Core Insights - The article discusses the rapid growth and transformation of the instant retail market in China, emphasizing the shift from selling products to selling experiences and scenarios, particularly in the alcohol sector [1][3]. Market Overview - The instant retail market in China is projected to reach approximately 1 trillion yuan by 2025, with a market size of about 780 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 20% [3]. - By 2030, the market size is expected to approach 2 trillion yuan, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17% [3]. Alcohol Sector Insights - The online sales of alcoholic beverages have accelerated since 2020, with instant retail channels experiencing significant growth. The market sizes for imported liquor, baijiu, and beer in instant retail from 2020 to 2022 grew by 628%, 554%, and 85% respectively [3][5]. - The alcohol segment is projected to reach a market size of 60 to 90 billion yuan by 2030, with a CAGR of 10-17% [5]. Consumer Behavior - The demand for instant retail in the alcohol category is driven by lifestyle changes among consumers aged 18-40, who prioritize convenience and emotional satisfaction [5]. - The nighttime consumption of alcohol is increasing, with a notable rise in orders during late-night hours, particularly among younger consumers [1]. Supply Chain Dynamics - Instant retail supply is categorized into platform and self-operated models. Platforms integrate resources from various retail formats, while self-operated models focus on quality control and higher profit margins [6]. - Major companies are leveraging their strong downstream traffic to consolidate resources from supermarkets, convenience stores, and chain outlets [6]. Business Models - Vertical alcohol merchants are covering a wide range of products and price points, with self-branded offerings providing competitive pricing and higher profit margins [7]. - Franchise models in the alcohol delivery sector, such as Yima Delivery, show a clear path to profitability, with a payback period of approximately 15-16 months under optimal conditions [7].