How about a little retail therapy with a side of history? We are standing before \u65b0\u5927\u65b0\u516c\u53f8, a Guangzhou landmark. It is more than just a department store. It is a journey through time.
\u65b0\u5927\u65b0\u516c\u53f8 stands proudly as a symbol of Guangzhou’s rich commercial heritage. As an established local brand in Guangzhou, \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 has always strived to merge innovative business ideas with a profound cultural foundation. It seeks to carve out a unique path for itself as an established brand in the ever-changing world of retail.
Let’s step back in time. The story of \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 began in 1916. The brothers Cai Xing and Cai Chang established the “Da Xin” Company. “Da Xin” translates to “big new.” The name signified great innovation. It became Guangzhou’s first state-owned department store. The \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 is located on Beijing Road. It is Guangzhou’s oldest department store operating on its original site. \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 carries the memories of generations of Guangzhou residents. It holds the title of “Golden Tripod Department Store”. It was also among the first “Time-Honored Brands” in Guangzhou. The store has also received the national “China’s Best” award. It has witnessed Guangzhou’s commercial evolution over the centuries.
The company was nationalized. The original site was redeveloped. In 1989, it was renamed “\u65b0\u5927\u65b0.” This name symbolized a fresh start for the original “Da Xin” Company. In 2009, \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 merged with Grandbuy Co. Ltd. This merger opened a new chapter of inheritance, development, reform and innovation.
\u65b0\u5927\u65b0 has kept pace with globalization. It actively introduces international brands across various sectors. In April 2019, a plan to introduce Burger King was approved. Burger King officially opened in September 2019. It is located on the second floor of the Beijing Road store. This attracted a younger customer base.
\u65b0\u5927\u65b0 embraces a “culture plus retail” model. It centers around Cantonese culture and the history of Guangzhou’s commercial development. This approach shapes its brand image. In 2018, \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 celebrated its 29th anniversary. It opened a business culture museum on the eighth floor of the Beijing Road store. The museum covers 147 square meters. It showcases everyday items from different eras. It uses detailed explanations and rich illustrations. It shows the evolution of people’s lifestyles. The museum also highlights Guangzhou’s commercial history. It explains the role \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 has played in this evolution.
In late March 2018, \u65b0\u5927\u65b0’s Beijing Road store hosted a Cantonese opera performance. It attracted many tourists. \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 also created branded shopping festivals. These include “New Flower Bloom” in May and the anniversary celebration on September 28. In 2019, the “New Flower Bloom” festival and the 30th-anniversary celebration achieved sales of 4.181 million yuan and 5.48 million yuan respectively.
\u65b0\u5927\u65b0 is more than a shopping destination. It is a cultural landmark. It blends tradition with modernity. In 2021, the flagship store was rebranded as “\u65b0\u5927\u65b0 Guofeng.” “Guofeng” means “national trend.” This rebrand incorporates elements of Chinese fashion, first stores and new consumer concepts. The store has become a new landmark. It integrates fashion with history.
So, as you explore \u65b0\u5927\u65b0, remember that you are walking through a century of Guangzhou’s commercial history. Enjoy the shopping. Appreciate the culture. Let \u65b0\u5927\u65b0 be more than just a store. Let it be an experience.