Some Thoughts on Opening a Physical Vaping Store

At present, RELX still leads the vaping industry in sales, with many other brands working hard to catch up. RELX’s position as the leading brand is difficult to shake. However, since entering 2021, I wonder whether people in the industry have noticed that many smaller brands have been making aggressive moves, with all kinds of low-priced devices and a constant stream of store-opening subsidies. Bird and YOOZ, in particular, have been rapidly grabbing market share through low-price strategies. In fact, those paying close attention may have noticed that RELX’s market share has also been declining.

So what is the best way to open a store at this stage?

Personally, I think opening a RELX store is still the safest option and carries the lowest risk. After all, RELX has a huge user base, so operating under the RELX brand is the most reliable choice. That said, as RELX continues expanding its offline retail presence, there are fewer and fewer prime locations available. Choosing a remote location will only increase the risk of opening a store, especially in the face of increasingly fierce competition and the rapid growth in the number of offline vaping stores, where many may eventually be pushed out of the market.

So here comes the question: in today’s offline retail environment, where location determines everything, what is the best choice? I think it may be worth trying a multi-brand vaping store. Over time, RELX’s market share will likely decline, while other brands’ shares will inevitably continue to rise. Users will also keep trying e-cigarettes from other brands. In cities where the market is already relatively mature, the advantages of a multi-brand store are very clear: customers have more choices, better value, and access to a concentrated selection of brands with strong user experience. That is definitely a good option.

So, based on the current situation, I think RELX should still be the first-choice brand for opening a store, followed by a multi-brand store, and then exclusive stores for other brands.

The above is only my personal opinion and is for reference only. If you are interested, you can also add me on WeChat to exchange ideas.