Yijiupi

Yijiupi operates as a business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce platform in China, focusing on the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. Founded in 2014 by Sheng Qiang Chen, Shi Tao, and Chaocheng Wang, the Beijing-based company initially centered its services on the wholesale distribution of alcoholic beverages to local retailers. The firm identified an opportunity to streamline the fragmented FMCG supply chain by leveraging digital solutions, thereby undercutting traditional middlemen and offering more competitive pricing to storefronts.

The company's business model revolves around a comprehensive online distribution platform that connects manufacturers and distributors directly with a vast network of retail clients, including mom-and-pop stores, supermarkets, and restaurants. Over the years, Yijiupi has expanded its product catalog beyond alcoholic beverages to include a wide array of consumer goods such as snacks, foods, beverages, and toiletries. This diversification strategy has been pivotal to its growth, allowing it to penetrate deeper into China's retail market. Revenue is generated through the wholesale of these products on its platform. The company has also integrated financial services for its supply chain partners, providing solutions like inventory financing to improve operational efficiency.

Yijiupi's service offerings are extensive, featuring a mobile e-commerce platform, logistics and supply chain management, retail chain management solutions, and shared warehousing. By providing a vertically integrated service, the company aims to be an empowerment platform for its business partners, enhancing value across the entire supply chain. A significant milestone was achieved in September 2018, when a $200 million Series D funding round led by Tencent and Meituan-Dianping elevated the company to unicorn status with a valuation of $1.1 billion. Subsequent funding rounds, including a $100 million investment from Warburg Pincus in 2019, have supported its national expansion, technology development, and new retail initiatives. Strategic acquisitions, such as the merger with competitor Zhangshangkuaixiao in 2020, have further consolidated its market position, particularly in southern China.

Keywords: B2B e-commerce, FMCG distribution, supply chain platform, wholesale beverages, online procurement, retail tech, liquor distribution, China FMCG, supply chain finance, digital distribution, mobile commerce, retail logistics, B2B marketplace, inventory financing, warehousing solutions, alcohol e-commerce, convenience store supply, restaurant procurement, online wholesale, tech logistics