Hailing district in Taizhou, Jiangsu province, experienced a surge in consumer activity during the just-concluded May Day break from May 1 to 5, with bustling shopping districts, appliance subsidies, and a major sports event combining to ignite both foot traffic and spending across the region.
Wanda Plaza has become the leading destination for families looking for short getaways. Restaurants, retail stores and entertainment venues have flourished as shoppers take advantage of promotional offers like limited-time discounts and tiered rebates. A popular burger festival, featuring live grilling and carnival vibes, drew massive crowds, particularly among younger consumers.
The burger festival at Wanda Plaza in Hailing attracts massive crowds. [Photo/WeChat account: weihailing0523]
Beyond traditional retail, the district capitalized on the Taizhou home match of the 2026 Jiangsu City Football League, blending government, banking, and business collaboration with a fusion of commerce, culture, tourism, and sports. The "second venue" concept proved highly effective, channeling event audiences into local spending and unlocking new revenue streams.
According to official data, sales at 13 key monitored enterprises rose 9.8 percent year on year during the holiday period. From shopping malls and appliance stores to food scenes and sports-driven tourism, Hailing delivered a holiday season defined by robust consumption, vibrant energy, and a thriving local atmosphere — presenting the district's growing appeal as a dynamic commercial hub.