Food & Beverage Marketing in China

Dominating China's F&B Market Through Tailored Digital Strategies

The Chinese market is no stranger to patronizing imported food and beverages through online shopping. However, with the country’s consumer base constantly evolving, the success of foreign brands in the local business scene hinges on utilizing the potential of digital innovation.

At Sekkei Digital Group, we help brands understand the challenges of attracting Chinese consumers in the local market. From leveraging cross-border ecommerce platforms to localizing your website, we guarantee that marketing your imported food products and beverages online will connect you faster to your target audience and set the brand apart from the cutthroat competition.

Powerful Marketing Pillars for f&b Brands in China

You may not know, but the pandemic has heightened local consumers’ focus on food security and safety, prompting them to conduct extensive research on the ingredients and origins of imported goods.

With the consumers and Chinese government growing wary of food imports, foreign F&B brands need tailored strategies like market studies, competitor analysis, social CRM management, and other custom digital solutions to sell products effectively in the China market. Here are some marketing pillars they can utilize:

Providing F&B professionals with the right industry knowledge

Helping foreign brands understand import & export customs regulations implemented by the Chinese government.
Being aware of the audience dynamics through extensive industry research and analysis.
Creating compelling content strategies for different digital channels.
Developing credibility with proper branding that resonates with your target audience.
Utilizing competitive intelligence to keep brands updated with the latest industry trends and stay ahead of the competition.
Optimizing the brand’s customer experience based on relevant market studies.

Activating Food & Beverage Brands in the Online Market

Boosting company exposure and engagement in the market through WeChat campaigns.
Establishing a solid digital presence on social media platforms to engage with potential customers and attract local importers.
Making online press releases on food security and safety to gain the trust of Chinese importers and build a positive reputation in the market.
Implementing content marketing strategies on Forums and Q&A websites.
Empowering positive brand discussions on Zhihu & Douban.

Offering eCommerce support for Foreign F&B brands

Identifying the most suitable eCommerce channels in China with content audit services and compliance checks for the company.
Managing the brand’s virtual stores on TMALL & JD with a support team actively engaging during China Standard Time to handle customer queries.
Solving complex regulatory issues with cross-border eCommerce solutions.
Running targeted ad campaigns, KOL collaborations, and trendy live-streaming content strategies.
Connecting foreign brands with trusted local logistics partners.

Attracting reputable Chinese Food and Beverages importers

Defining the appropriate digital platforms for brands to ensure a localized brand positioning.
Executing carefully crafted ad campaigns in China to generate strong interest from importers.
Regularly reviewing online engagement and activity to implement data-driven solutions and enhance audience reach and sales.
Identifying the right importers with the potential to expand market penetration in China through rigorous research.

Our F&B clients

Our Latest Case Study

WeChat, Social CRM & Mini Program Campaign

Maison Routin approached us as they wanted to expand the 1883 Syrups brand to a business-to-business audience in China, including professional baristas, restaurants, and hotels. It was important that we helped 1883 reach a level that meant it was directly competing against rival businesses, such as DaVinci and Maison Monin.

How we can help

Providing knowledge about imported products in China
Activating your F&B company in the Chinese market
Offering eCommerce support for foreign F&B brands
Connecting & building business relationships with local importers
Boosting brand awareness through tailored advertising strategies
Improving brand reputation in the Chinese online landscape

Our capabilities

Reach out to learn more about your industry

FAQ

How big is the Food & Beverage market in China?

Notably, China emerges as the Food & Beverages market leader, generating the highest revenue of US$850.40 million in 2022 compared to other countries worldwide. It is expected to maintain an impressive annual growth rate of 11.02% (CAGR 2022-2027), resulting in a projected market volume of US$1.55 billion by 2027.

What food products do Chinese customs allow for import?

Chinese customs typically allow importing a wide range of food products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry products, dairy products, seafood and fish products, grain and cereal products, packaged and processed foods, beverages, etc.

Importers must comply with Chinese safety standards, labeling requirements, and customs regulations to ensure smooth entry and distribution in the local market. It’s crucial for businesses looking to import food products into China to work with experienced importers or consult with professional agencies.

Do Chinese people buy food and beverage imports from other countries?

Yes, Chinese citizens do buy food and beverage imports from other countries. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the demand for foreign products in China.

This surge in demand can be attributed to various factors, including a growing middle-class population with higher disposable incomes, an increased public interest in international cuisines, and heightened concerns about food safety and quality in the local market.

What is cross-border eCommerce in China?

Cross-border eCommerce in China refers to online trade between Chinese customers and international sellers without needing a physical presence. It allows businesses from other countries to reach Chinese consumers directly through digital platforms, offering a wide range of products and services.

This e-commerce channel has gained global popularity due to the increasing demand for high-quality foreign products in China, the ease of access it has provided through digital platforms, and how it streamlined local customs procedures.

Who can sell on cross-border eCommerce platforms?

Various business entities can sell on cross-border e-commerce platforms in China, including overseas brands, foreign retailers, global F&B manufacturers, cross-border sellers, overseas warehouses, foreign entrepreneurs, and foreign affiliates.

While F&B brands can find success through these channels, sellers must adhere to Chinese import requirements, ensure product quality, and establish a reliable logistics network to cater to the demands of the local market.

How can SDG assist in marketing your Food & Beverage brand in China?

SDG has a solid network of industry experts and a comprehensive understanding of China’s Food and Beverage market. Through this, we can identify and connect your brands with reputable Chinese importers that align with your niche. On top of that, we can execute proper marketing strategies to boost your brand’s reputation and visibility in the local market.

Let’s work together!

Have a project in mind or need our help in identifying one?
We want to hear from you.

Learn more about F&B Marketing in China

How to Promote in the Chinese Wine Market [Strategies & Insights]

China’s rapidly developing alcohol market continues to provide exciting business opportunities for foreign wine producers, especially those looking for sustainable ways to export their brands to the Middle Kingdom.

F&B: China B2B Digital Success Formula

F&B export companies that want to engage effectively with Chinese consumers will need to consider the changing trends in China’s e-commerce, B2B branding solutions and the unlimited possibilities of China’s Digital Marketing Ecosystem.