Qingdao, the second-largest consumer market in northern China, continues to attract leading brands seeking to enter Shandong province. According to the municipal commerce bureau, the city has welcomed over 100 new stores this year, expanding its commercial landscape with new shopping experiences.

These new stores often choose major commercial complexes. Hisense Plaza, for example, has introduced 11 such stores this year, with eight making their Shandong debut. Among them are popular brands like South Korea's Rest&Recreation, Sweden's outdoor specialist Klattermusen, and British label KENT&CURWEN. These additions cater not only to high-end shoppers but also help the mall connect with younger consumers.

Traditional sectors like dining and retail remain focal points for these new stores. For instance, the Japanese convenience store chain Lawson entered Qingdao in August and has already expanded to 22 outlets, intensifying competition with local chains and driving market innovation.

Some of the most distinctive new concepts are rooted in local culture. The Qingdao Beer Exchange, which debuted in the city's Taidong pedestrian street in June, sparked a citywide trend with replications in multiple business districts. Similarly, local tea brand Hetian Shuipu collaborated with Laoshan Cola to launch three hot cola drinks, selling nearly 3,000 cups within a month and gaining popularity among international visitors, particularly from South Korea.

As part of a national pilot program for new consumption models, Qingdao plans to further enhance its support for debut businesses. The city aims to develop distinctive debut hubs and clusters, encouraging more leading domestic and international brands to establish flagship and concept stores, with the goal of elevating these outlets into regional or national headquarters.