Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of Xu Fu Ji by Nestlé marks a significant strategic move, as it aims to transform Xu Fu Ji into a "national classic snack brand" amidst declining candy consumption trends in China [2][18]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - On March 3, Nestlé announced the acquisition of the remaining 40% stake in Xu Fu Ji, achieving full ownership after previously acquiring 60% for $1.7 billion in 2011 [2][5]. - Xu Fu Ji has been a dominant player in the Chinese candy market, achieving sales of over 1 billion yuan in 1997 and maintaining a leading position in the market since [5][7]. Group 2: Market Context - The candy market in China has been experiencing a decline, with traditional candy sales dropping by an average of 11.6% annually from 2019 to 2023 [13]. - The overall candy market growth has stagnated, with a compound annual growth rate of only 2% from 2016 to 2020, and a decline in production from 352,000 tons in 2016 to 288,000 tons in 2018 [15]. Group 3: Brand Transformation - Nestlé aims to leverage Xu Fu Ji's extensive distribution network to penetrate the growing snack market, which contrasts with the declining candy sector [18][19]. - Xu Fu Ji has already begun diversifying its product offerings beyond traditional candies, including snacks like nuts and cakes, to adapt to changing consumer preferences [21]. Group 4: Consumer Behavior - The perception of Xu Fu Ji as a "candy king" persists, with Nielsen data indicating a market share of over 30% in bulk candy sales [10]. - However, the cultural significance of candy during festivals like the Spring Festival is diminishing, leading to a decline in its consumption as a gift item [12][14].

Core Viewpoint - Nestlé's acquisition of the remaining 40% stake in Xu Fu Ji marks a significant move to gain full control over the brand, which has been a staple in the Chinese candy market but faces challenges in adapting to changing consumer preferences [2][19]. Group 1: Company Background - Xu Fu Ji, founded by the Xu brothers in the early 1990s, quickly became a leading candy brand in China, achieving sales of over 1 billion yuan by 1997 and maintaining a dominant market position since then [5][6]. - The brand's success is closely tied to its association with Chinese New Year, where candy sales can account for over 60% of annual revenue [6][12]. Group 2: Market Challenges - Despite being the market leader in bulk candy with over 30% market share, Xu Fu Ji faces declining demand for traditional candy as consumer habits shift away from sugary products [12][13]. - The overall candy market in China has seen a decline, with sales dropping by an average of 11.6% annually from 2019 to 2023 [14]. Group 3: Strategic Shift - Nestlé's decision to fully acquire Xu Fu Ji suggests a strategic pivot to reposition the brand as a "national classic snack brand," leveraging its extensive distribution network to tap into the growing snack market [19][22]. - The snack industry in China is experiencing robust growth, with the market for snacks projected to maintain a compound annual growth rate of around 10% from 2023 to 2028 [21][22]. Group 4: Future Prospects - Xu Fu Ji is diversifying its product offerings beyond traditional candy, with significant revenue coming from biscuits and other snack products, indicating a shift in strategy to adapt to modern consumer preferences [24]. - The brand aims to expand its distribution network to 2.6 million outlets by 2025, enhancing its market presence in the competitive snack industry [22].