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The‍ Rise of “No-Materials” and‍ the Loneliness Economy in China

A new trend⁤ is ​emerging in ‌China, driven by⁢ a generation seeking connection⁢ and creative expression. ⁣Dubbed “no-materials” (无料), this​ practice involves the free exchange of small, frequently enough handmade, items – a phenomenon ⁤that’s expanding beyond its‍ initial scope ⁢and revealing engaging insights into contemporary​ consumer behaviour.

The practice began with enthusiasts attending events and freely giving away items like printed papers, ‌badges, small folders, and character-themed cards.this wasn’t a reciprocal‍ exchange in the⁣ customary sense; often, recipients received⁢ items ⁢unilaterally, even‌ being actively given things on their commute‌ home. Some participants, hesitant to offer ⁣uncensored items directly, cleverly signal their willingness to⁣ exchange with pendants displaying phrases⁤ like ‌”Welcome ‌to exchange ⁣for uncensored items⁣ with me” or playfully asking, “Can the teacher give ‍me some ‌uncensored items out of nowhere?”

this seemingly unconventional gifting is supported by a surprisingly agile⁣ supply chain. Ru Ru,a college ‍student who designs and produces her own “no-materials,” utilizes the ‌WeChat applet “Rouzao” to quickly⁣ and efficiently create customized⁢ goods. Rouzao​ functions similarly‌ to Taobao in the customization sector, offering a wide range of options across nine main categories – acrylic, badges, paper products,‍ wood products, stickers, colored paper, grating, PVC, and textiles – with over 40 ‌subcategories based ⁢on craftsmanship and ⁣presentation.

Consumers can tailor size, design details, ⁢and other specifications. While typical⁢ delivery times range ‌from 10-15 days,Ru Ru ⁣reports receiving custom badges in as little as three to four days.Unit prices vary; badges ⁣cost between 2-5 yuan, while ​textiles like canvas bags and blankets are more expensive, ranging from‌ 20-50 yuan. the platform‌ operates⁤ on ‌the principle⁤ of economies‌ of scale, with larger orders resulting in lower ⁤per-unit costs.

Rouzao ⁤also ​fosters a creative community, mirroring ‌the functionality of Xiaohongshu, where users share designs, craftsmanship ideas,‌ and design skills.

Beyond the exchange of physical items, a ‌related trend is gaining ‌traction:⁣ a “loneliness⁢ economy.” During the‌ recent National‌ Day holiday, individuals sought companionship thru paid services, hiring ​people to fulfill roles⁢ like friends, lovers, or even ​family ⁢members. This highlights a growing‌ need ⁢for connection in​ an increasingly ⁤digital age‍ and represents ⁢a‌ breaking down ​of boundaries within previously niche subcultures.

Source: This article is reproduced from Yibrun‍ Power (ID:⁣ iebrun) with authorization. Copyright remains with Yibrun Power.

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