Encore: How can time-honored brands stand the test of modernity?
Feb 12, 2024
25:11
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Experts Niu Honglin, Li Yi, and Josh Cotterill discuss the challenges facing time-honored brands in China and how they can stay relevant. They explore how these brands embrace modern technology and innovation while preserving traditional craftsmanship. The podcast also highlights successful brands that diversify their product range and adapt to the modern market, with a focus on Guinness and vinegar production. Overall, they discuss strategies for time-honored brands to maintain authenticity while embracing change and engaging younger generations.
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Quick takeaways
Old brands need to adapt to modern technology and diversify their products to stay relevant.
Successful time-honored brands embrace digitalization, release new products, and appeal to younger customers to attract new markets.
Deep dives
Significance of Lao Zhe Hao brand list and challenges faced by time-honored brands
The Ministry of Commerce in China recently removed 55 enterprises from the esteemed Lao Zhe Hao or Time-honored brand list, with warnings issued to 73 others. This recognition system was established in 2006 to support the development of old and influential enterprises, but being recognized does not guarantee permanent status. The removal of brands showcases the challenges faced by these companies. For instance, 10% of the listed enterprises were either removed or warned, indicating the present challenges. Old brands in other countries like Rolls Royce and Burberry have successfully adapted by incorporating modern technology and diversifying their products. In contrast, Blockbuster failed to adapt to the digital revolution and subsequently collapsed. The recognition of time-honored brands in China depends not only on their age but also on meeting other criteria related to distinctive Chinese features, cultural value, and industry leadership.
Strategies for success and adaptation
Successful time-honored brands are adopting strategies to keep up with modern markets and attract younger consumers. Many brands are actively embracing digitalization, using social media, live streaming, and e-commerce platforms to engage with younger generations. They are also releasing new products and rebranding to reach out to a wider customer base. Brands like Beijing Roast Duck and Dao Xiangxun have launched special designs, innovative products, and unique store experiences to appeal to new and younger customers. In the UK, brands like Guinness have diversified their product line, embracing new varieties and incorporating digital media to maintain their authenticity while adapting to market preferences. These successful examples demonstrate the importance of recognizing consumer preferences, diversifying products, and leveraging digital technologies for continued success.
Challenges and solutions for time-honored brands
Time-honored brands face several challenges, including maintaining authenticity while adapting to the modern market. Balancing heritage with market demands requires internal transformations, possibly involving significant changes to the brand's structure and workforce. Failure to adapt can lead to declining numbers of time-honored brands, as witnessed in China where the recognized brands decreased from around 16,000 to 1,000. Challenges also include the lack of awareness about protecting intellectual property and complaints about poor management and service in the catering industry. However, some successful examples like Lego, Disney, and McDonald’s show that brands can thrive by focusing on product excellence and modernity rather than relying solely on their history or traditions. This highlights the importance of finding ways to adapt and remain relevant in the ever-evolving market.
How are some old brands doing in this age of rapid changes? What's their secret for having not just survived but still thriving for decades if not centuries? Let's unravel the captivating narratives, where every label tells a story, and every bottle holds a piece of the past, waiting to be rediscovered. On the show: Niu Honglin, Li Yi & Josh Cotterill
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