The Impulso Podcast E108: From Dianping to RedNote: Shanghai’s role in breeding successful consumer apps
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Jan 28, 2025 Freeman Ding, a pioneer in China's consumer internet boom with experience at Baidu and Dianping, shares fascinating insights into Shanghai's role in fostering tech innovation. He discusses the rise of Meituan, explaining its food delivery dominance and navigational challenges in low-frequency markets. Freeman argues that only WeChat qualifies as a true super app and examines the global ambitions of Chinese giants like TikTok and SHEIN, questioning whether they can replicate their success abroad amid regulatory hurdles.
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Foodpanda's Malaysian Customer Service
- Freeman Ding recounts a frustrating experience with Foodpanda's customer service being located in Malaysia.
- Their lack of local knowledge hindered their ability to resolve his delivery issue effectively.
Shanghai's Importance in Chinese Tech
- Shanghai played a vital role in China's consumer tech boom, birthing companies like Musical.ly (TikTok's predecessor).
- Many consumer-facing products often launch their first China stores in Shanghai due to its sophisticated consumers.
Shanghai: A Consumer Trend Hub
- Shanghai's consumers are considered the most sophisticated in China, making the city an ideal testing ground for new products and business models.
- Many Western companies choose Shanghai for their first China store due to its trendy consumer base.