China’s Market Reset Tests U.S. Brands
American brands that once rode China’s growth are losing ground as domestic competitors surge, consumers become price-sensitive, and locals adapt faster. Nike’s China business has deteriorated, Starbucks faces fierce discount competition from Luckin Coffee, and GM’s China operations have weakened amid a rising wave of local automakers and a shift toward new energy vehicles. Brands that localize, offer genuine value, and optimize distribution—like Lululemon and Ralph Lauren—are faring better, underscoring the need for more local capability rather than simply exporting global models.
