China’s Retail Acceleration

China is no longer just a market to watch—it’s a laboratory of innovation where the future of retail is being rapidly prototyped. Domestic and international brands are redefining how people shop, consume, and connect. This report explores the key forces behind that transformation, offering a strategic lens on a retail revolution in motion.

From AI-driven commerce and instant delivery to the emotional return of physical stores, China is rewriting the rules. Gen Z consumers are leading the shift, demanding experiences that are not only seamless and digital but also deeply personal, culturally resonant, and value-driven. Today’s retail blends technology with tradition, convenience with storytelling, and local identity with global ambition.