2026 February: The “Smart New‑Year Gift” Trend and Gree Electric Appliances
The latest research from Data‑Bao and the JD.com Consumer and Industrial Development Institute has shifted the focus of Chinese New Year gifting from traditional foods and spirits to smart household appliances. The trend, dubbed “焕新式年货” (refreshing New‑Year goods), is driven by the rapid penetration of digital infrastructure in rural areas and a generation of young consumers eager to improve the daily lives of their elders.
How the Trend Shapes the Household Durables Market
- Rural penetration: 5‑G coverage and “next‑day delivery” services have made it easier for families in county and village settings to buy advanced appliances online.
- Government incentives: Since 2025, several provinces have introduced 10 %–15 % subsidies for green smart appliances, lowering the entry barrier for cost‑sensitive consumers.
- Product performance: Sales of robotic vacuums rose 121 % month‑over‑month, while integrated steam‑oven units grew 114 %. Other items—dishwashers, KTV speakers, tea‑making robots—each saw gains exceeding 70 %.
These figures underscore a clear pivot: gifting is no longer about symbolic items but about enhancing quality of life and reducing household labour.
Gree Electric Appliances: Aligning with the New‑Year Narrative
Gree, a leading Chinese manufacturer of air conditioners and air purifiers, has long positioned itself at the intersection of energy efficiency and consumer comfort. The company’s product portfolio now increasingly incorporates smart features:
| Product | Smart Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Split‑type air conditioners | Wi‑Fi control, voice‑assistant integration | Remote operation, energy‑saving schedules |
| Floor‑type and mobile units | IoT connectivity, real‑time temperature monitoring | Flexible deployment, instant climate feedback |
| Air purifiers | Sensor‑driven filtration, mobile app alerts | Continuous air‑quality reporting, child‑friendly interfaces |
Because Gree’s appliances are widely available through the Shenzhen‑Hong Kong Stock Connect and have a proven track record of high dividend payouts, the company is well‑poised to capture the smart New‑Year gift wave. Its products directly address the concerns highlighted in the research:
- Ease of use for seniors: Gree’s intuitive interfaces and minimal physical interaction cater to the 40 % of consumers who find complex operation a barrier for older users.
- Health‑centric positioning: Air purifiers with particulate‑matter sensors dovetail with the rising demand for “health‑guardian” devices.
- Energy‑efficiency incentives: As the government promotes green appliances, Gree’s ENERGY STAR‑qualified units become even more attractive.
Dividend Yield and Investment Implications
The financial snapshot reveals that Gree’s stock has maintained a stable dividend yield in recent quarters, making it an attractive option for investors seeking income alongside growth. With the New‑Year sales surge expected to lift revenue streams, the company’s dividend policy could see a modest uptick. Analysts note that the company’s close price of 40.22 CNY (as of 30 Dec 2025) sits comfortably above its 52‑week low of 39.20 CNY, suggesting room for appreciation as demand escalates.
Market Dynamics and Competitive Positioning
While Gree’s core competency lies in cooling solutions, the company is increasingly competing with larger household durables conglomerates such as Midea and Haier. However, Gree’s focus on smart integration and rural market accessibility sets it apart:
- Rural logistics: Gree’s existing distribution network can be leveraged to deliver units to remote areas efficiently.
- Product bundling: By offering “New‑Year gift bundles” that pair an air conditioner with a purifier, the company can tap into the packaging strategy adopted by peers.
- Live‑stream marketing: Adopting the popular “乡村直播专场” model, Gree can showcase product benefits in local dialects, resonating with rural consumers.
Outlook
The convergence of technological adoption, subsidy support, and a cultural shift toward gifting appliances that improve everyday life positions Gree Electric Appliances favorably. As the New Year approaches, the company’s robust dividend track record and expanding smart‑home footprint suggest that investors and consumers alike may benefit from Gree’s continued growth in the household durables sector.
