'Fan economy' grows into commercial powerhouse
Supporters of star performers drive merchandise sales, form deep connections
Fan-made with love
Fan culture is also thriving in the bespoke and do-it-yourself areas, where craft and self-expression intersect.
Chen Xiaojia, founder of Chunzhi handmade aromas in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, began selling her wares in July 2024.
"I started out selling handmade candles, essential oils and aroma stones at local markets, and gradually combined my love of calligraphy with hand-painted aroma pieces inspired by scenic spots like West Lake," she said.
Chen shared her products on social media and attracted customers who wanted unique items to resell.
The workshop soon ventured into celebrity merchandise. Chen created hand-painted aroma pieces featuring names, song lyrics, or iconic sayings of artists such as Taiwan's Mayday band, pop icon Jay Chou, Singaporean singer-songwriter JJ Lin, and Taiwan pop singer Cyndi Wang.
"Designs often incorporate the celebrity's fan colors and symbolic elements, making products personal and collectible," said Chen.
