Core Insights - The Beijing Marathon is set to take place on November 2, highlighting the growing popularity of marathon events as a part of urban culture and tourism [1] - The demand for running gear and services has surged, with domestic brands gaining traction in the market [1][3] - The marathon is becoming a significant platform for brands to enhance their visibility and engage with consumers [1][4] Equipment Segment - Various running shoe brands are actively promoting their products, with Adidas and Li Ning recruiting elite runners for promotional events [3] - In the 2022 Beijing Marathon, international brands dominated the footwear market, with Nike at 45.37% and Adidas at 28.02%, while domestic brands like Jordan and Xtep had lower shares [3] - A shift occurred in 2024, with Xtep leading among sub-three-hour runners at 22.5%, followed closely by Adidas at 22.4% [4] - The competition among brands is intensifying, with sponsorships and collaborations with running groups becoming key marketing strategies [4] Consumer Behavior - The running community is increasingly spending on apparel and wearable technology, with expenditures on running clothing and shoes rising from 29.98% in 2023 to 35.02% in 2024 [5] - Li Ning's footwear accounted for 55.6% of its revenue in the first half of 2025, with a 15% increase in retail sales for its running category [5] New Professions - The emergence of marathon pacers has created a new service market, with earnings ranging from 500 to 6000 yuan per event depending on the service level [6] - Marathon photographers are also becoming prominent, with income varying based on their collaboration with brands or event organizers [7][8] Tourism and Logistics - Hotel bookings in Beijing surged by 28% around the marathon, with areas near the marathon route seeing a 52% increase in reservations [12] - Logistics companies like SF Express are implementing comprehensive support systems for the marathon, including storage and delivery of runners' gear and supplies [14][15] Commercial Integration - Local businesses are enhancing their offerings around the marathon, with food and retail services tailored to meet the needs of participants [10][11] - The integration of sports, culture, and commerce is evident in various initiatives aimed at creating a unique consumer experience during the marathon [10]

Core Insights - The running events in China are evolving into a new marketing platform for shoe brands, with the China Athletics Association reporting 749 running events in 2024, attracting a total of 7.0486 million participants [1][3] Running Events and Market Dynamics - The upcoming Beijing Marathon has seen brands like Adidas and Li Ning actively recruiting elite runners, offering incentives such as specialized running shoes and guaranteed race entries [3] - Historical data from the 2022 Beijing Marathon shows that international brands dominated the shoe market, with Nike at 45.37% and Adidas at 28.02%, while domestic brands like Jordan and Xtep held only 6.79% each [3] - In 2024, a shift occurred with Xtep leading the shoe market among sub-three-hour finishers at 22.5%, closely followed by Adidas at 22.4%, and Hongxing Erke surpassing Nike for the first time [4] Technological Advancements in Shoe Manufacturing - The core components of running shoes, including the outsole, midsole, and carbon plate, are critical to competition, with international brands historically leading in technology [4][5] - Domestic brands have made significant technological advancements, with Peak introducing its signature technology in 2018 and Li Ning launching innovative materials in 2019 [5] Marketing Strategies and Sponsorships - Sponsorships and collaborations with running groups have become essential marketing strategies for shoe brands, with Nike and Adidas leveraging partnerships to enhance brand visibility [6] - In 2023, Xtep sponsored 24 marathons, including the prestigious Xiamen Marathon, indicating a strong commitment to the running market [6] Market Growth and Sales Performance - The running market is expanding, with brands competing for a growing base of casual runners, which is reflected in sales data [6][7] - Li Ning's footwear accounted for 55.6% of its revenue in the first half of 2025, with a 15% increase in retail sales for its running category [6] - Xtep's Saucony brand reported over 30% year-on-year growth in retail sales, highlighting the competitive landscape [6]