Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of the Chinese outdoor brand Kailas from a budget-friendly option to a high-end competitor, particularly targeting the market previously dominated by international brands like Arc'teryx. The brand has significantly increased its product prices and focused on high-performance outdoor gear to establish itself in the premium segment [4][5][10]. Group 1: Brand Evolution - Kailas was initially perceived as a budget brand, comparable to Decathlon, but has recently repositioned itself as a serious competitor to high-end brands [4][5]. - The brand's price for products like the Wind Hunter series jackets has risen from around 500-600 RMB in 2022 to over 1000 RMB, with tents priced at 5000 RMB directly competing with international brands [4][5]. - The brand's founder, Zhong Chengzhan, started Kailas in 2003, inspired by a love for outdoor sports, and initially focused on imitating established brands to survive [4][5]. Group 2: Strategic Changes - Under the leadership of General Manager Kong Fanyong, Kailas shifted its strategy towards high-quality, professional outdoor gear, focusing on climbing, trail running, and mountaineering [5][6]. - The product line was streamlined from several thousand styles to under a thousand, emphasizing high-performance items and eliminating lower-end products [6][8]. - Kailas has adopted GORE-TEX materials in flagship products to enhance their professional appeal and has established a strong brand recognition among high-income outdoor enthusiasts [6][8]. Group 3: Retail and Marketing Strategy - Kailas has accelerated its offline store openings, planning to open 56 new stores in late 2024 and 31 in early 2025, with 40% located in high-end shopping centers [7][8]. - The brand has focused on direct sales channels, with 350 direct stores planned by the end of 2024, enhancing its professional outdoor image through store design [7][8]. - Online, Kailas has shifted to selling high-performance products exclusively, with average prices increasing by over 60% from April 2023 to April 2024, aligning closer to international brands [8][9]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Kailas prioritizes its trail running shoe line, actively sponsoring major trail running events to enhance brand visibility and engagement [9][10]. - The brand's community engagement efforts are significant, with over 2200 team members organizing numerous events across cities, fostering a loyal customer base [9][10]. - Despite establishing a foothold in the high-end market, Kailas faces challenges such as a narrow consumer base and intense competition from established international brands [10][11].