(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
The Chinese beauty market rewards brands that understand consumer preferences, anticipate trends, and innovate accordingly. Overseas brands that use qualitative research—interviews, focus groups, and observational studies—gain insights that help optimize product design, marketing, and overall customer experience.
1. Consumer Behavior Mapping
1.1 Routine & Usage Patterns
Approach: Observe how consumers use skincare, makeup, or wellness products daily.
Benefit: Identifies unmet needs and product opportunities for improved routines.
1.2 Emotional Drivers
Method: Explore motivations like self-expression, social influence, or lifestyle aspirations.
Outcome: Informs messaging and feature design that resonates emotionally.
2. Product Design & Experience
2.1 Feature Prioritization
Strategy: Use focus groups to evaluate preferred ingredients, textures, and packaging aesthetics.
Action: Refine products to align with user preferences and lifestyle habits.
2.2 Usability Testing
Method: Conduct in-home trials and app-based product tutorials for digital beauty tools.
Impact: Ensures products are user-friendly and culturally appropriate.
3. Marketing & Storytelling
3.1 Narrative Creation
Approach: Craft brand stories emphasizing values like sustainability, innovation, and self-care.
Effect: Strengthens emotional connection and drives brand loyalty.
3.2 Localized Campaigns
Tactic: Integrate local cultural elements, holidays, and trending visuals into marketing.
Result: Enhances relevance and consumer engagement across digital channels.
4. Influencer & Digital Ecosystem
4.1 KOL Partnerships
Strategy: Collaborate with trusted influencers to demonstrate product authenticity and effectiveness.
Outcome: Accelerates awareness and builds credibility among targeted demographics.
4.2 Interactive Social Content
Method: Launch challenges, tutorials, and user-generated content campaigns on Douyin or Xiaohongshu.
Impact: Encourages engagement and strengthens brand community.
Case Study: Japanese Skincare Brand
A Japanese skincare brand conducted ethnographic research and interviews with Chinese consumers to explore preferences for anti-aging and hydration-focused products. They localized formulations, packaging, and marketing campaigns featuring micro-influencers. Within four months, they increased engagement on social media by 50% and doubled online pre-orders.
Conclusion
Qualitative research is essential for overseas beauty brands seeking success in China. By observing, testing, and listening to consumers, brands can develop products that meet expectations, anticipate trends, and foster long-term loyalty.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
info@pltfrm.cn
www.pltfrm.cn
