The Ugly Chinese Duckling

If you think of China, in particular Beijing, what are some of the things that first come to mind? The Great Wall is probably up there, along with, maybe Tienanmen Square with the Forbidden City and Peking Duck. All iconic and on the must see, must do list of almost every tourists. Both international and local alike. When it comes to Peking Duck, one name stands out; Quanjude. In fact. for most people, Peking Duck is synonymous with Quanjude. But maybe not for much longer.

A little history of Quanjude

The first Quanjude restaurant was build in 1864 in Tienanmen, almost 160 years ago today, 2020. Large enough to accommodate over 1,000 patrons, it has hosted some of the most famous politicians and celebrities including former British Prime Minister Edward Heath.That is a fairly impressive history. Even more so when you consider than the brand is now international, has branches all over the world.

Of course, the dish predates this and then some. Depending on who you listen to, it came to Beijing during the Yuan Dynasty (1206-1368) when the Mongols ran China. Others point to the fact that a form of roast duck was consumed when China’s Capital and Court were located further south, Nanjing to be precise.(420-589) and was renamed when the capital moved north to Beijing. Jing translates to “Capital City” whilst Nan and Bei mean south and north respectively.

It is probably worth pointing out that Roast Duck is available nation wide, each province with its own variation. The Peking variety is the more oily type- according to local experts we spoke to. As always the question as to which is best depends on the home town of the person you speak to! However, it was generally acknowledged that Nanjing Duck is better than Beijing.

If you have never tried Peking Duck, a quick surf of the web should update you and as we noted above, today there is probably a Quanjude restaurant not too far from you. If you are dining in China, expect to pay around 200rmb – per person. Alcohol not included.

Is it worth the hype?

Well, that depends on who you talk to. Take a look at any of the travel websites such as Trip adviser and you get mixed results, probably leaning to the positive. The Bic dined in the original Qianmen restaurant in the winter of 2002 and was initially excited and keen to try the “famous exotic dish.” His impression was a few small, thin slices of very oil duck – they say a skilled chef can carve one duck into more than 100 pieces – served with about 8cm diameter, thin, bland, almost transparent crepes accompanied by a selection of small side dishes.

As a meal it was so so, but of course one goes for the “experience.” In his opinion, once is probably enough! The Qianmen restaurant is built in the classic style, decor with staff uniforms reminiscent of national Chinese culture of centuries past. From that viewpoint, food is probably over rated and over priced but the environment and atmosphere make up for it.

Is the duck for the chop?

But it seems that not even all that incredible history and fame can compete with time. Or the changing times in China. What was once the darling is now verging on the pariah as customers shun the brand in their droves. After last years profit of some 20 million RMB the Quanjude brand lost over 53 million rmb this year. The company point to the Corona Virus, which is likely partially true. After all, the hospitality industry has been one if the hardest hit. Many restaurants have shuttered. However, a quick surf shows that Quanjude have been losing customers, popularity and money since cira 2016. Various short time half hearted attempts have been made to turn the tide with little effect.

However, the company may be the architect of its own demise in some aspects. Firstly, in its efforts to cling to the traditional theme management has been too slow to accept the digital age and offer mobile orders and home delivery. Secondly for many years, a least 4, we have talked about the still white hot health and fitness craze in China. Exercise and healthy eating is now a priority for many Chinese,. Especially those in the salary and occupation bracket that Quanjude would attract. They would have been well advised to watch KFC who not only moved to position their menu more in line with local tastes but also reflect the changing diet habits of Chinese.

The domino effect

No, nothing to do with pizza. The impact of Quanjude slowly bleeding, trickles down through the industry, to the duck breeders, food and veterinary providers. However as mentioned, this has been happening for a few years and Beijing Duck is not the only variety. In fact, Quanjude maybe the largest and hitherto most popular brand, but not the only Beijing roast duck game in town. Presumably there will be some causalities but the industry will survive.

However this can be seen as a wake up call for other traditional or lackadaisical brands who are still living with centuries old management and thinking. It is also a fantastic lesson for foreign brands, either already in or contemplating China. Although the writing was on the wall for Quanjude for several years, things can change very fast in China. A brand must have its wits about it and keep its ear to the ground. And as we have stated on numerous occasions, watch what is happening in the luxury market. Don’t try to remote mange your China venture, either be here, have someone senior here or visit on a regular basis. Trends or changes there can quickly flow down through other sectors. And if course make friends with your friend China marketing company.

This article is based on our own research, analysis and interpretation. Please check out Caixin for an alternative viewpoint. Image of chef carving duck is also courtesy of Caixin.

Introducing Everlyne YU

China Website Baidu Optimisation

In 2003 Everlyne Yu co-founded WPBeijing Marketing Studio with Englishman Peter Bic, now known as Bic Brands.

She began Uengager, as a SaaS MarTech company focused on customer engagement in 2017.

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Everlyne is also a key note speaker, lecturer and KOL on MarTech in China. She is CEO of Uengager, business development officer for Bicyu.

Everlyne hs been privileged to work with a variety of international organisations, from VW, Cushman Wakefield, Sodexo, Bristol Myers Squibb to local Chinese firms such as Midea, and OK Order.

If you’re looking for guidance, tips, advice on any aspect of starting or growing a business in China or training, coaching your existing China marketing team for excellence, be sure to check out Uengager. Home page and base for Everlyne Yu. Read her short bio – opposite left – or contact her direct – below – for a free, heart to heart chat.