China Consumer 22 will bring together UK brands and China market specialists to discuss insights on trends shaping the future of the country’s retail sector, including story-living immersion, 'retailtainment' and changing consumer tribes. 

Speakers include representatives from the Department for International Trade (DIT), Alibaba, Fortnum and Mason, Holland & Barrett, Shakeup Cosmetics, Currentbody, and KPMG as well as many other businesses who have already begun their journey in the east Asian market.

Brands will learn how they can leverage their own cultural selling points to resonate with the Chinese consumer market at interactive sessions held by market experts, using new analysis from Chinese consumer focus groups.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to design their individual roadmap to this dynamic market, grow their knowledge of China’s e-commerce sector and develop unique marketing strategies, including working with the country’s most influential Key Opinion Leaders.

Over the last decade, UK exports to China have more than tripled, making China the UK’s third largest trading partner.

The country’s rising middle-class is thought to be the primary reason behind this export boom. China will account for two thirds of the growth in the global middle class in the next decade, equivalent to around 400million people, according to recent findings from the DIT.

Antoaneta Becker, Director, Consumer Economy at CBBC, said: 

“After two years of trade and travel disruption, this conference will give British retailers the chance to re-connect and share vital knowledge of China’s fast-paced, dynamic market.

“The mix of China’s ancient and modern, traditional and innovative is truly intoxicating for any foreign brand that approaches the market with ambitions to enter, grow and win customers. It is not only the size of the China prize that merits the effort but it is also the incredible opportunity to learn and innovate.”

Joanna Zhou, China Manager, Holland & Barrett said:

“As we are entering the 6.18 ecommerce shopping festival in China, we have observed an incredible business growth compared with the same period last year. Chinese consumers are currently restricted from overseas travel due to COVID, but there is still great demand in international brands, especially in the health and wellness sector. 

“As a British brand, we not only need to highlight our Britishness and brand history, but more importantly stay closer to local societal cultural phenomenon to truly connect and resonate with the young Chinese consumers.”

Jake Xu, Co-Founder, Shakeup Cosmetics said:

“China is a market that no business can afford to ignore. Not only because of the sheer size of the consumer base, what is most exciting about this market is the consumers’ ever-growing, unsatiable appetite for new, innovative and trending products from all over the world, especially Europe and UK. 

“Advertising such as live streaming is considered a form of entertainment that draws in millions and holds their attention for hours. This level of consumerism is simply unparalleled anywhere else in the world. Yes, it has many challenges and obstacles but the size of the prize makes it all worthwhile.”

Representing some 400 businesses and organisations of all sizes and sectors, the China-Britain Business Council is the UK’s leading organisation promoting trade, investment and education links with China, with the aim of protecting and securing industry, jobs and prosperity across all regions of the UK. 

China Consumer 2022's Conference Day runs from 9.30am to 5pm on Tuesday 28th June in central London. 

Tickets are £100 (+VAT) for CBBC members and £125 (+VAT) for non-members.

Register here

Please note that registrations will close on Thursday 23rd June at midnight