e-commerce

Bubble Mart’s new Mini LABUBU blind box collection launched yesterday and sold out almost instantly online. The “Inner Code” series was particularly popular, causing overwhelming traffic and “Sold Out” messages on platforms like Tmall and Douyin. Early sales figures show over 1.078 million units sold across Bubble Mart’s online flagship stores. Founder Wang Ning anticipates the Mini LABUBU, designed as a phone accessory, will be a “super-selling blockbuster,” reflecting the company’s strategy to integrate IPs into daily life.

Gree Electric Appliances reported a slight revenue decrease of 2.46% to ¥97.325 billion in its 2025 H1 report, while net profit rose 1.95% to ¥14.412 billion. The company will not distribute dividends. Livestreaming e-commerce generated over ¥5 billion in sales, contributing to consumer engagement. Gree also highlighted its extensive online and offline sales network. Recently, Gree and Xiaomi engaged in a public dispute over air conditioner sales rankings, underscoring market competition.

Taobao Flash Delivery and Ele.me (Alibaba companies) have launched new racing suit-inspired uniforms for delivery riders, sparking online buzz. Beyond aesthetics, the high-performance uniforms prioritize practicality with windproof, water-resistant material, reflective strips, graphene lining, and smart helmets featuring AI assistance and safety sensors. The uniform includes a “Golden Rescue Information Pocket” for emergency data and a medical kit. This investment signals a shift towards professionalizing the delivery sector and enhancing rider safety and well-being, supported by Alibaba’s “City Rider – Orange Initiative.”

Pinduoduo’s Q2 earnings call highlighted strategic investments aimed at long-term growth within the e-commerce ecosystem. Chairman Chen Lei emphasized prioritizing industry development over short-term profits. PDD is increasing subsidies for cross-border merchants and collaborating on innovative business models to expand into new international markets. These efforts are bolstered by the resilience of Pinduoduo’s industrial supply chain, further reinforcing the company’s conviction to increase investments.

Speculation arose on Chinese social media regarding Wahaha’s Tmall flagship store when it was renamed “Tongyuan Kang Food Franchise Store.” Tongyuan Kang confirmed they previously operated as Wahaha’s official Tmall store as a distributor but are now independent after the partnership ended. Tongyuan Kang E-commerce is controlled by Sanjie Investment Group, with Du Jianying holding a major stake. The current “Wahaha旗舰店” on Tmall is now run by Hangzhou Hengyi E-commerce, where Zong Fuli, daughter of Wahaha’s founder, serves as a board member.

Hua Xiaoxiao, a Xinjiang stir-fried rice noodle brand, is rapidly expanding across China, projected to reach over 3,000 locations by 2025. Founder Zhao Gang, leveraging his marketing background, strategically utilized e-commerce to overcome challenges faced by traditional restaurants. By focusing on a standardized, replicable menu item and building a strong online presence, Hua Xiaoxiao achieved scalable growth and improved product development through immediate customer feedback. E-commerce accounts for a significant portion of revenue, enabling community stores and promoting Xinjiang culture. The brand aims for global expansion, using a multi-platform approach to maximize reach.

Chinese retailer Pang Dong Lai has refuted online claims falsely attributed to them regarding job losses resulting from e-commerce decline. The company stated they never released content suggesting “If e-commerce collapses, 5 million people will lose their jobs.” They urged the public to verify information and avoid misinformation. Pang Dong Lai reported strong first-half sales of RMB 11.707 billion. Founder Yu Donglai announced ambitious 2025 targets focused on profits and employee compensation, indicating a commitment to talent retention.

JD.com launched its “Wan Dian Plan,” investing over 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion USD) in the food delivery sector. This ambitious initiative signifies JD.com’

China’s express delivery volume has ranked first globally for 11 years, processing over 500 million parcels daily. In 2024, central and western China saw express delivery growth rates significantly above the national average, indicating successful strategic investments. The postal sector strengthens the modern circulation system and promotes balanced development. China is enhancing rural delivery logistics, aiming to bridge the urban-rural consumption gap. Xinjiang has achieved universal free e-commerce shipping, boosting agricultural product sales and improving rural residents’ access to online shopping. The sector’s growth also creates local employment opportunities.

China’s online retail market experienced robust growth in the first half of 2025, driven by pro-consumption policies and evolving consumer trends. Key drivers include government stimulus boosting electronics sales, demographic-specific needs (e.g., “new elderly,” Gen Z), and a dual focus on value and premium products. AI-driven innovation, personalized experiences, and the integration of online and offline commerce are reshaping the market. Immediate retail is aiding in the recovery of physical locations, with new entrants like JD’s food delivery gaining significant market share.