Jinan is boosting consumer spending by developing immersive cultural experiences, attracting leading brands, and introducing new retail models. In the first quarter of 2026, the city recorded 139.18 billion yuan ($20.55 billion) in retail sales of consumer goods, up 3.8 percent year-on-year, highlighting the city's expanding consumer market.

A major driver of the transformation is the rise of immersive cultural and tourism experiences. At Datang Baiquan post station, a recreated Tang Dynasty (618–907) setting lets visitors assume historical roles, complete storyline tasks, and interact with performers.

The Rumengling Song Poetry-themed Park has adopted a similar approach, combining live performances with traditional cultural experiences such as poetry competitions and tea-making.

Jinan is also enhancing its retail offerings through first-store development. In the first half of 2026, the city introduced 43 first stores. Greenland International Finance Square commercial street, Jinan's first park-style commercial district, has attracted more than 70 first stores and flagship brands by integrating retail, leisure, and public spaces.

New retail formats are making Jinan a more attractive shopping destination. Sam's Club in Jinan generated more than 100 million yuan in sales within three days of opening in May, attracting shoppers from Jinan and neighboring cities and boosting the city's role as a regional consumption hub.

The city is also encouraging spending across multiple sectors through a "ticket economy" platform, which connects exhibitions, performances, and events with tourism, dining, accommodation, transportation, and entertainment services.

Jinan creates new shopping and leisure experiences through upgraded commercial spaces and innovative business models. [Photo/Dazhong News]