Core Insights - The article discusses the challenges faced by distributors in the current fragmented market, particularly in the alcoholic beverage sector, emphasizing the need for effective collaboration between brands and distributors to navigate these challenges [1][2][3] - The "Flagship Brand × Super Platform" strategy of Anheuser-Busch InBev is highlighted as a systematic response to market trends, focusing on leveraging brand strength and platform capabilities to create sustainable growth models [1][8] Brand Strategy - The importance of brand power is underscored, as consumers increasingly seek emotional value and craftsmanship in their beer choices, moving beyond mere price competition [2][3] - Anheuser-Busch InBev aims to concentrate resources on building widely recognized and commercially viable brand assets, with Budweiser and Harbin Beer as core brands driving market growth [5][9] Marketing and Engagement - The company employs innovative marketing strategies that focus on high-frequency consumer engagement through immersive experiences, such as collaborations with music and esports events [6][8] - The integration of top-tier IP resources into marketing efforts allows for deeper connections with consumers, enhancing brand recognition and loyalty [11][13] Distribution and Ecosystem - The "Super Platform" strategy emphasizes the need for brands to adapt to a multi-channel environment, where traditional marketing methods are becoming less effective [11][15] - By focusing on high-value consumer scenarios, such as sports and music events, Anheuser-Busch InBev aims to create a closed-loop system that enhances brand visibility and consumer engagement [11][16] Digital Transformation - The company has initiated a digital ecosystem to improve operational efficiency for distributors, exemplified by the "BEES" B2B platform, which has expanded to over 320 cities in China [19][20] - This digital transformation not only aids in inventory management but also enhances market responsiveness, thereby increasing distributor confidence and loyalty [19][20] Sustainable Growth - The combined "Flagship Brand × Super Platform" approach is positioned as a pathway for sustainable growth, enabling distributors to see long-term value through resource sharing and collaborative efforts [20] - Anheuser-Busch InBev's focus on sustainability and digital innovation aligns with broader industry trends, contributing to high-quality development in the fast-moving consumer goods sector [20]

Core Insights - The global beer industry is undergoing significant adjustments, with Budweiser APAC's 2024 financial report highlighting typical characteristics of this transitional period [1] - Despite a challenging environment, Budweiser APAC's Harbin Beer has shown positive transformation through product innovation and channel optimization [1] Financial Performance - Budweiser APAC's total revenue for 2024 decreased to $6.246 billion, reflecting a year-on-year decline [1] - Net profit fell by 14.8%, indicating pressure from market competition and fluctuating consumer conditions [1] Product Innovation - Harbin Beer’s zero-sugar product line experienced a remarkable growth of 122%, driven by collaborations with the NBA to engage younger consumers [1] - The introduction of the zero-sugar ice pure series has achieved a nationwide coverage of 85% in convenience stores, with a penetration rate of 19.3% among the 25-34 age group [3] Strategic Focus - Budweiser APAC plans to focus on core brands, specifically Budweiser and Harbin Beer, as part of its 2025 strategy [2] - The appointment of Cheng Yanjun as CEO signals a commitment to enhancing local decision-making efficiency and leveraging his technical background for supply chain optimization [3] Market Adaptation - Harbin Beer is actively adjusting its channel strategy to address the decline in traditional nightlife venues, with a 30% increase in sales of low-sugar, low-alcohol products expected by 2025 [4] - The brand is expanding its online sales, which have increased by 18%, and improving its convenience store presence with a 25% growth in the East China region [9] Cultural Integration - Harbin Beer is transforming its century-old industrial heritage into a cultural IP, utilizing tourism and product sales to enhance brand engagement [6] - The integration of industrial tourism with product sales, such as offering a beer case with museum entry, is creating new consumer touchpoints [6] Future Challenges - Harbin Beer must continue to seek breakthroughs in brand rejuvenation and value reconstruction to appeal to younger consumers [10] - The new CEO emphasizes the need for localized strategies to rebuild connections with consumers, focusing on product and channel innovation [10]