《时光知味第四季》系列节目是由新华社品牌工作办公室指导，中国经济信息社监制的微纪录片栏目。节目依托真实史料，聚焦泸州老窖发展历史上的重大 事件和精彩瞬间，在一份份泛黄的报纸里，寻找那些被折叠的时代，细述那些鲜为人知的故事。相关史料均来自中国国家图书馆及泸州老窖博物馆。 这一期，我们回到1987年12月8日，重温《经济参考报》刊发的《泸州老窖又添新品种》。 1987年12月8日，《经济参考报》刊发的《泸州老窖又添新品种》写道："两次获得国际金奖的四川泸州曲酒厂，继1984年成功地试制出38度泸州老窖低度特 曲酒后，最近又成功地研制出30度、34度两种泸州老窖低度特曲酒。" 1951年出版的《专卖事业教材》 20世纪60年代，国家开始倡导生产低度酒。低度白酒如何实现"酒体清澈""低而不淡"，成为困扰行业的难题。 泸州老窖开始探索以"吸附过滤"方法降度，即利用吸附剂对白酒易浑浊的成分进行选择性物理吸附和拦截，除去混浊成分。这既需要全面掌握各种吸附剂的 性质，也要结合白酒的特性精密试验，在当时科技尚不发达的年代，工作量和操作难度均相当大。 功夫不负有心人，1984年，泸州老窖成功试制出38度产品，并于1987年继续推 ...

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent price adjustment strategies of high-end liquor brands, particularly focusing on Wuliangye and Guojiao 1573, and the competitive dynamics in the premium liquor market following Wuliangye's price changes [1][3][5]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Wuliangye has been leading the high-end liquor market, with Guojiao 1573 closely following, and both brands often adjust their prices in tandem [1][3]. - The competition has intensified, with Guojiao 1573 expected to adopt a follow-up strategy similar to Wuliangye, potentially using channel subsidies to effectively lower prices without officially changing the factory price [1][3][9]. - The price gap between Guojiao 1573 and Wuliangye has been narrowing, with Guojiao 1573's price sometimes exceeding Wuliangye's [3][9]. Group 2: Pricing Strategies - Wuliangye's pricing strategy has included initial price increases followed by indirect price reductions through channel incentives, leading to a complex pricing environment [7][9]. - Guojiao 1573 has historically followed Wuliangye's pricing moves, but its management has indicated a more cautious approach this time, reflecting on past experiences where aggressive pricing led to market share losses [8][10]. - The current market environment is characterized by a need for strategic pricing adjustments, as both brands face declining demand and the challenge of maintaining market share [10][12]. Group 3: Product Focus and Revenue Contribution - Wuliangye's revenue is heavily reliant on its flagship product, contributing 50%-60% to its overall income, while Guojiao 1573 has diversified its offerings, with significant contributions from both high and low alcohol content products [13][14]. - Guojiao 1573's revenue contribution from high-end products has increased significantly, indicating a successful strategy in expanding its market presence [13][14]. - The competitive landscape has evolved, with new players entering the market, making pricing strategies more critical for maintaining brand positioning [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - The recent price adjustment news from Wuliangye has sparked industry speculation about whether other high-end liquor brands will follow suit, particularly focusing on the competitive dynamics between Wuliangye, Guojiao 1573, and other brands in the premium liquor market [1][3][4]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Wuliangye, Guojiao 1573, and Moutai are the top three players in the high-end liquor market, with Wuliangye and Guojiao 1573 often adjusting their strategies in tandem due to their similar pricing and market positioning [2][4]. - The competition has intensified, with Guojiao 1573's pricing strategy closely mirroring that of Wuliangye, often resulting in a price difference of only a few dozen yuan between the two brands [4][11]. - The current market environment shows a trend of price adjustments, with Wuliangye leading the way by increasing channel subsidies to effectively lower the cost for distributors without officially changing the factory price [13][15]. Group 2: Historical Context - The current price adjustment cycle resembles previous cycles, where both Wuliangye and Guojiao 1573 have engaged in back-and-forth pricing strategies, including price increases followed by temporary reductions [9][10][12]. - Historical data indicates that Guojiao 1573 has previously faced challenges when maintaining higher prices than Wuliangye, leading to a significant drop in market share during past adjustment periods [10][11]. Group 3: Strategic Responses - Guojiao 1573 is expected to adopt a follow-up strategy similar to Wuliangye's, potentially using indirect methods such as increased subsidies to maintain competitiveness without directly lowering factory prices [4][15]. - The strategic focus of both companies has diverged, with Wuliangye prioritizing volume sales while Guojiao 1573 has the flexibility to leverage both high and low alcohol content products to enhance market presence [18][20]. - The competitive landscape has evolved, with new entrants like Langjiu and Moutai 1935 gaining market share, complicating the pricing strategies for established brands [22][23].

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese liquor industry is facing significant challenges, akin to extreme mountain climbing, with leading companies struggling for growth while distributors experience severe survival pressures [1][3]. Industry Performance - The third-quarter reports indicate a sharp decline in performance for most liquor companies, with some net profits dropping nearly three digits year-on-year [1]. - The growth in the industry is highly concentrated among a few leading companies, resulting in the exit of numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, with over 100 liquor companies expected to exit by mid-2025 [1]. Distributor Challenges - Major liquor distribution companies reported a dramatic drop in both revenue and net profit in the third quarter, highlighting the severe survival challenges faced by distributors [3]. - Many distributors are only able to provide minimal living expenses to employees, leading to salary cuts or layoffs [3]. - By mid-2025, 1,701 distributors exited from the networks of 20 major liquor companies, contrasting sharply with a net increase of nearly 2,000 last year [3]. Market Trends - Traditional sales peaks during the Mid-Autumn and National Day festivals have diminished, with sales dropping by 20% compared to the previous year [3]. - The high-end gift liquor market is declining due to more rational consumer behavior, while the self-consumption market is still present but with reduced purchase volumes and heightened price sensitivity [3]. Strategic Shifts - To survive, distributors are adopting new strategies such as street vending, live streaming, and reducing inventory [5]. - Many distributors are shifting focus to new beverage categories, such as low-alcohol trendy drinks, to navigate the current market challenges [5]. - The new beverage segment is seen as a second climbing route, with higher repurchase rates and a growing customer base, contrasting with traditional liquor sales [5]. Emerging Opportunities - Successful new products, such as the 38-degree Guojiao 1573 and Wuliangye's "Yijian Qingxin," have achieved significant sales milestones, indicating a potential shift in consumer preferences [9]. - Beverage giants are entering the new drink market, with brands like Yuanqi Forest and Mixue Ice City launching new products, reflecting changing consumer trends towards convenience and value [9]. - The new beverage market is rapidly heating up, suggesting that competition will intensify as companies adapt to the evolving landscape [9].

Core Insights - The white liquor industry is experiencing significant challenges, with major companies facing declining growth and many small to medium enterprises exiting the market [1][2] - The third quarter reports indicate a sharp decline in performance for most liquor companies, with some net profits dropping nearly 100% year-on-year [1] - The number of large-scale liquor enterprises decreased by over 100 in the first half of 2025, highlighting the industry's contraction [1] Industry Performance - The third quarter saw a dual drop in revenue and net profit for two major liquor distribution companies, indicating severe pressure on the entire supply chain [1] - Many distributors are struggling to survive, with reports of basic living allowances around 1,000 yuan and potential layoffs or salary cuts for employees [1][2] - In the first half of 2025, 1,701 distributors exited the market, contrasting sharply with the previous year's net increase of nearly 2,000 [1][2] Market Trends - Distributors are adapting by diversifying their product offerings, introducing lower-alcohol trendy drinks to appeal to younger consumers [4] - The traditional high-end liquor market is facing a decline, with sales during key festive periods dropping by 20% compared to the previous year [2] - New beverage categories are gaining traction, with examples of successful products like the 38-degree Guojiao 1573 and Wuliangye's "Yijian Qingxin" achieving significant sales milestones [4] Future Outlook - The new beverage market is rapidly heating up, indicating a shift in competition dynamics as traditional liquor companies seek to adapt [5] - The transition from traditional liquor to new beverage categories requires companies to innovate and embrace new marketing strategies [5][7] - The survival of companies in the current market will depend on their ability to evolve and find opportunities in the changing landscape [7]

Core Viewpoint - Luzhou Laojiao has demonstrated strong and stable performance in its Q3 2025 report, achieving a revenue of 23.127 billion yuan and a net profit of 10.762 billion yuan, ranking among the top in the liquor industry [1][3]. Financial Performance - For the first three quarters of 2025, Luzhou Laojiao reported a revenue of 23.127 billion yuan and a net profit attributable to shareholders of 10.762 billion yuan, with Q3 figures showing a revenue of 6.674 billion yuan and a net profit of 3.099 billion yuan [1][3]. - The company's gross profit margin remains high at 87.1%, with a net profit margin of 46.7%, indicating a robust business model [5]. - The total equity attributable to shareholders reached 49.680 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 4.84%, reflecting steady growth in net asset size [5]. - The net cash flow from operating activities was 9.823 billion yuan, showcasing the sustainability of the company's profitability [5]. Product Strategy - Luzhou Laojiao's product matrix consists of "dual brands, three series, and major products," with high-end liquor serving as a cornerstone for its performance, accounting for 91.45% of total revenue in the first half of 2025 [3][4]. - The flagship product, Guojiao 1573, is a leading high-end liquor brand, while Luzhou Laojiao Tequ is well-regarded in the mid-range price segment [3][4]. - The company has successfully positioned its aged liquor products, which are produced from old cellars, as high-quality offerings that appeal to consumers [4]. Market Position and Brand Value - Luzhou Laojiao's brand resilience and value have gained international recognition, ranking third in Brand Finance's 2025 Global Alcoholic Beverage Brand Value List with a valuation of 6.347 billion USD [6]. - The company is actively engaging with younger consumers through innovative marketing strategies, including the creation of immersive cultural experiences and sponsorship of major sports events [11][13]. Industry Trends - The company has identified and capitalized on the trends of "lower alcohol content, health consciousness, and flavor diversity," with the 38-degree Guojiao 1573 becoming the first low-alcohol liquor product to exceed 10 billion yuan in sales [7][9]. - Luzhou Laojiao is adapting to the changing consumer landscape by enhancing its presence in new media and e-commerce channels, achieving a 27.55% revenue growth in emerging channel operations in the first half of 2025 [13]. - The Z generation now constitutes 42% of the liquor consumer base, with a significant emphasis on cultural experiences influencing purchasing decisions [13].

Core Viewpoint - Luzhou Laojiao demonstrates resilience and strategic determination in navigating the challenges of the liquor industry adjustment period, focusing on consumer-centric innovation and maintaining a stable yet progressive approach [1][2]. Financial Performance - In the first three quarters of 2025, Luzhou Laojiao achieved revenue of 23.127 billion yuan and a net profit attributable to shareholders of 10.762 billion yuan [1]. - The net cash flow from operating activities reached 9.823 billion yuan, indicating a robust financial foundation [2]. Market Position and Strategy - Luzhou Laojiao, as a leading enterprise in the liquor industry, showcases strong brand heritage, a clear product matrix, and deep digital transformation, enhancing its anti-cyclical capabilities [2]. - The company has announced a high dividend policy, with cash dividend ratios set to increase annually to no less than 65%, 70%, and 75% over the next three years, with absolute amounts not less than 8.5 billion yuan [2]. Brand and Product Development - The company adopts a "high-end preservation and innovative attack" strategy, with its flagship brand, Guojiao 1573, solidifying its position in the high-end liquor market, achieving a scale of over 20 billion yuan [3]. - Luzhou Laojiao emphasizes cultural heritage as a core value, leveraging its unique cultural assets to strengthen brand competitiveness [3]. Innovation and Consumer Engagement - The company targets the low-alcohol and younger consumer segments, with its 38-degree Guojiao 1573 becoming the largest single product in the low-alcohol market, reaching a scale of over 10 billion yuan [4]. - Innovative marketing strategies, including collaborations with music and sports events, have successfully engaged younger consumers [4]. Digital Transformation - Luzhou Laojiao has implemented a digital twin system across its production and supply chain, improving equipment utilization by 45%, emergency response efficiency by 40%, and reducing operational costs by 25% [6][7]. - The integration of AI technology into production processes has enabled the company to predict and guide production, transforming traditional craftsmanship into a data-driven model [6][7]. Future Outlook - The company plans to deepen its market penetration, particularly in lower-tier markets, and shift its focus from quantity expansion to quality and efficiency improvement [8]. - Luzhou Laojiao is well-positioned to achieve high-quality development in the new industry cycle, supported by its strategic layout and brand advantages [8].

Core Viewpoint - The recent trend in the Chinese liquor industry is a shift towards low-alcohol white spirits, with major brands launching products with alcohol content below 30 degrees, aiming to attract younger consumers and adapt to changing consumption preferences [1][3][5]. Group 1: Market Trends - Numerous brands showcased low-alcohol white spirits at recent trade fairs, reigniting discussions on the trend of lower alcohol content in white liquor [1][3]. - The market for low-alcohol white spirits is significant, with approximately 450 billion yuan in market size, accounting for nearly half of the total white liquor consumption [7]. - The penetration rate of low-alcohol spirits is increasing, with regions like Hebei and Shandong showing over 80% and 70% penetration rates, respectively [7]. Group 2: Consumer Preferences - Younger consumers prefer low-alcohol options for their comfort and drinking experience, moving away from traditional drinking cultures [5][11]. - The perception that higher alcohol content equates to better quality is fading, with consumers now prioritizing flavor and overall drinking experience [11][12]. - The trend towards low-alcohol spirits is seen as a response to the lifestyle changes of younger generations, who favor casual drinking and home cocktail preparation [5][11]. Group 3: Industry Response - Major liquor companies are actively developing low-alcohol products, with brands like Wuliangye and Gujinggong launching new offerings specifically targeting younger demographics [4][10]. - The industry is undergoing a transformation, with a focus on creating products that emphasize flavor and experience rather than just alcohol content [10][12]. - The introduction of new standards for low-alcohol spirits aims to address quality concerns and align with consumer demand for diverse and personalized products [9][10]. Group 4: Challenges and Future Outlook - The transition to low-alcohol products requires time and successful market examples to educate consumers [12][13]. - Companies must not only adjust alcohol content but also enhance brand positioning and marketing strategies to resonate with younger consumers [13]. - The future of the industry may see a complete redefinition of quality metrics, moving away from alcohol content as the primary indicator of product value [10][12].

Core Insights - The Chinese liquor industry is undergoing a transformation as companies target younger consumers through innovative products and marketing strategies [2][3][9] - The trend of "lower alcohol content" is emerging as a key strategy to appeal to the new generation, shifting from traditional drinking culture to a more personal enjoyment [2][4][10] Industry Trends - The main consumer demographic for liquor is shifting, with individuals born between 1985 and 1994 now making up 34% of the market, and those born after 1995 accounting for 18% [3] - The low-alcohol market is projected to exceed 74 billion yuan by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 25%, significantly outpacing the overall liquor industry growth [6] Company Innovations - Companies like Luzhou Laojiao and Shanxi Fenjiu are leading the charge in developing low-alcohol products, with Luzhou Laojiao's 38-degree Guojiao 1573 sales surpassing 10 billion yuan [4][5] - Shanxi Fenjiu has successfully engaged younger consumers through creative marketing campaigns, such as the "Guilin Fenjiu" cocktail video that went viral, and has integrated online and offline marketing strategies [7] Marketing Strategies - The industry is focusing on emotional connections and experiential marketing to resonate with younger consumers, moving away from traditional consumption rituals [11] - Companies are exploring cross-industry collaborations and innovative product launches to refresh their brand image and appeal to younger demographics [7][9] Future Outlook - The liquor industry is expected to experience further segmentation over the next five years, with companies that embrace true organizational change and understanding of younger consumers likely to succeed [11] - The concept of "youngification" is being redefined, emphasizing the need for deeper engagement with consumer needs rather than superficial changes in product offerings [10][11]

Core Viewpoint - The white liquor industry is experiencing a "low-degree competition" as several companies, including Wuliangye and Gujinggongjiu, have launched low-degree liquor products to attract younger consumers and adapt to changing market dynamics [1][5]. Industry Trends - Since late August, multiple liquor companies have introduced low-degree white liquor, indicating a shift in consumer preferences and market strategies [1]. - The overall number of large-scale liquor enterprises in China has decreased, with 887 companies reported in mid-2025, down over 100 from the previous year [4]. - The production of white liquor has declined by 5.8% year-on-year, with sales revenue slightly increasing by 0.19% to 330.42 billion yuan, while profits fell by 10.93% to 87.69 billion yuan [4]. Market Response - Retailers have been cautious about stocking new low-degree products, with many still focusing on high-degree liquor, which dominates the market [2][3]. - The current market for low-degree liquor is primarily driven by local brands, with only a small percentage of low-degree options available in stores [2][3]. Consumer Insights - The primary consumer base for liquor remains middle-aged and older individuals, with younger consumers showing a preference for purchasing low-degree liquor through online channels or convenience stores [3]. - A survey indicated that only 19% of young consumers prefer white liquor, while 52% favor beer and 29% prefer foreign or fruit wines [4]. Strategic Initiatives - Major liquor companies are launching low-degree products as a strategy to engage younger consumers and expand into casual drinking scenarios [5]. - Companies like Gujinggongjiu and Wuliangye have recently introduced new low-degree products, indicating a competitive push in this segment [5]. Challenges - The definition of low-degree liquor varies, complicating market positioning and consumer understanding [6]. - The industry faces challenges in establishing consumption habits and market recognition for low-degree liquor, as traditional consumption scenarios remain dominated by high-degree products [7].