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As the boundaries between physical and digital consumption collapse, we’re entering a new era where robotics, humanoid assistants, data-driven retail systems, even biohacking innovations amongst others, are reshaping how – and why – consumers spend. This signals not just a technology shift but a structural reconfiguration of value chains, unlocking opportunities across automation, healthtech, smart retail and the broader AI-enabled economy to name a few. We spoke with several expert speakers at our Greater China Conference 2026 to get their views.

Before diving into some of the trends discussed, Christine Peng, Head of Greater China Consumer at �鶹��, provides context: “The recent property market policy is obviously the most important influence for Chinese households because property accounts for over 50% of wealth for normal households in China. Additionally, some of the structural reforms, to education and healthcare systems for example, will also help to release the purchasing power of these households, especially for the middle class.”

China’s consumers are highly tech savvy, experience-oriented and quality driven. They demand novelty, convenience, cultural relevance, aspiration and personalization. This behavioural shift is powered in part by China’s leading AI ecosystems and brands that fail to meet evolving expectations could face brand erosion.

Smart consumers are also exerting pressure across the value chain��– manufacturers, logistics, providers, suppliers��– all are having to adapt to shorter product cycles and greater customization; while retailers and service providers are in a cycle of reinvention to sustain engagement.

Chinese shopping malls are transforming from linear transactional spaces to ‘experience engines’; social hubs where shoppers can enjoy socializing, entertainment, retail, dining, wellness, culture and more��– under one roof.

The rise of Chinese brands and divergence among brands are intensifying shopping mall polarization. For example, says John Lam, Head of Asia property at �鶹�� Global Research, “�鶹�� store count data suggests leading mall managers are taking a higher market share of emerging brands from other shopping mall operators. This had driven a retail sales polarization among different mall operators. We attribute this to information advantage and economy of scale (membership data) that leading mall managers are early in identifying emerging brands, and introduce them to other parts of the country.”

This omnichannel evolution is driven by demand for immersive, high quality brand experiences and for brands, the implications are clear: innovate and elevate the customer experience journey or risk irrelevance. For those looking up- and downstream for related opportunity sets, experiential expectations are also driving design, logistics and tech integration.

Homegrown Chinese consumer brands are scaling rapidly, fueled by social commerce, fast iteration cycles and influencer‑led ecosystems. These often outpace their international rivals as they respond quickly to micro‑trends, while embedding strong cultural identity and authenticity. Their success stories are increasingly resonating internationally, underscoring China’s growing soft power in consumer culture.

Christine Peng explains that “Firstly, we saw a recovery of the high end luxury spending habits in the second half of 2025 and experts we talked to expect this trend to continue in 2026. Secondly, we are seeing the rise of Chinese brand support in China. Culture influence is becoming a very important driving force for the development of the Chinese brands.”

For international brands on the ground, hyper-localization strategies that embed culture and identity are driving results. These, when combined with multi-channel promotion across the physical and digital ecosystems, are enticing new customers and reinventing the customer experience.

Chinese consumers are enthusiastic early adopters of new technologies, and retailers and brands are using AI to deliver hyper-personalized shopping experiences, optimize inventory management and predict trends with accuracy. This widespread use of data analytics not only enhances operational efficiency but also fuels continuous product and service improvements, reinforcing China’s position as a testbed for next-generation consumer solutions.��

Mobility in China is also being reinvented via a combination of consumer expectations and technology.�� Urban residents are embracing smart transportation options��– think robotaxis, ride-hailing platforms and electric vehicles (EVs) as well as autonomous shuttles and shared micro-mobility services.

The government’s strong support for EV infrastructure and smart city initiatives has accelerated adoption, while consumers’ openness to mobile payments and digital platforms facilitates seamless travel experiences. These trends are reshaping the automotive supply chain, fueling demand for batteries, sensors, and connectivity solutions.