We challenge the narrative surrounding China’s economic slowdown to reveal an unexpected truth: today’s market conditions might be ideal for patient brand builders. Alex Duncan, marketing consultant, former co-founder of a Chinese social media platform and a 15-year China veteran, shares fresh insights from his recent return to Shanghai, making a compelling case for why now – when consumer confidence is at historic lows and competitors are scrambling for quick sales – might be the perfect moment for strategic brand entry. This episode offers a masterclass on turning market challenges into long-term opportunities in the world’s second-largest economy, from the paradox of convenience-killing convenience stores to why discounting is destroying brand value.
1. After 15 years away from China and 18 months away, what dramatic changes did you see?
2. How are people coping with the economic slowdown?
3. What aspects of China Speed do you miss now living abroad?
4. Does China’s speed equate to China’s efficiency?
5. Does China’s slowdown turn into a spark moment to become more efficient?
6. Is the slowdown a reflection of China becoming more of a mature market?
7. Should this all be about brand building during slower times?
8. Will this impact lower funnel sales and less brand search as consumers spend less and save more?
9. Have the digital platforms made it too easy (and challenging) to build brands, and as a result, brands have become too complacent?
10. Is this the best time to enter the China market?
11. How do you encourage consumers to spend money during times like this?
12. What’s with your book, Alex? When can we see it?
Alex Duncan on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/acjduncan/
HBR Article Mentioned in Episode:https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=35885
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