Chapter 191: Business Booms and Media Maneuvers

Leader, aside from the large lifestyle supermarket, there are plenty of brand specialty stores here—even several that are debuting in the Northwest. I suspect that once the news spreads, people from Wei City and other neighboring counties will flock here for shopping.

Pausing, the Young Man added.

While the large lifestyle supermarket attracts ordinary consumers, these specialty stores have a powerful pull on the fashion-savvy middle class.

“Is the leasing power of this ancient commercial complex really that impressive? Is it led by Xu County?”

Qin Xuan’s expression shifted noticeably.

A prime location is crucial for any major urban complex, but its ability to secure top brands is the true key. High-end brands naturally bring in crowds, yet not every complex can attract such marquee names.

Some brands will simply refuse to settle for a weak spot or lack of clout. The presence of Northwest debuts alone speaks volumes about the strength of this leasing campaign.

“Not at all! I heard from President Luo that during this leasing drive, the Xiang family from Min’an Real Estate lent a great deal of help.”

The Young Man blurted out quickly.

“The high-end real estate tycoon, Xiang Min’an?”

“Yes, that’s him! His son’s wedding was hosted at the Mingsha guesthouses. Mingsha Tourism went all out, and before long, Min’an Real Estate struck up ties with them.”

Moreover, since Min’an Real Estate specializes in upscale properties and commercial projects—with strong connections to top brands—it’s no surprise that so many flagship stores have set up shop here.

“No wonder!”

Qin Xuan nodded in understanding.

“Leader, this means consumer spending at the Mingsha guesthouses will surge. I suspect our Industry and Tax personnel won’t be sufficient.”

At this, the Young Man expressed a hint of wistfulness.

The business model at Mingsha guesthouses is straightforward. Mingsha Tourism collects the rent, yet all store registrations and post-revenue taxes are recorded under Mingsha County.

Thus, the more flagship brands that move in, the greater the benefits for both Mingsha Tourism and Mingsha County.

“Just adding a few more inspectors? I bet soon these departments will have to relocate entirely! Have you ever seen a branch office with more staff than the main bureau?”

Qin Xuan glanced at the few documents spread across his desk.

“Leader, are you suggesting…”

The Young Man was momentarily stunned.

“Not only Industry and Tax—I even suspect the entire county town might gradually shift over there. Already, several companies are eyeing some plots near Hongsha Gang Village for real estate development.”

This trend is becoming increasingly evident. Haven’t you noticed how much quieter the New Year atmosphere is in the county town this year compared to before?

Qin Xuan nodded.

“Developing real estate in the townships?”

“Exactly! I reckon they’re planning to develop apartments. Not only does Mingsha Tourism attract and retain tourists, but guesthouse rates are undeniably higher than hotels. Plus, with Haofang Culture cranking out new dramas and Haofang Agency drawing aspiring talents from acting schools, affordable apartments are bound to find a market.”

So, there’s plenty of demand for reasonably priced apartments!

Qin Xuan took a deep breath.

“So, what do you propose?”

“Since the trend is already here, we’ll go with it. I’ll approve several projects. Other county projects may gradually shift north, but there’s one red line we absolutely cannot cross!”

“That is, the five-kilometer greenbelt between the Mingsha Tourism plots and Mingsha County. Make it clear to all departments—if that line is breached, no one will be spared.”

Qin Xuan pounded his desk.

“Leader, rest assured, I’ll pass on the message!”

Meanwhile, at Yun Province TV, Channel Director Cui Fangshan stared at his computer screen with a growing look of concern, and across from him, Deputy Director He Ruozhou felt the same. It wasn’t until long after that…

Cui Fangshan finally spoke in a low tone, “Mingsha Tourism is simply too powerful. An upcoming xianxia drama—even without an announced title—has already trended. If it ends up competing with our drama…”

Cui Fangshan had spent the last few days tracking the box office and reviews of ‘Longmen Inn.’ No one expected a trending buzz to suddenly arise.

What does it mean to be hot before airing?

Haofang Culture’s xianxia drama has truly become a pre-air sensation, its impact surpassing that of any planned advertising campaign by countless degrees.

“Leader, Haofang Culture has never pushed their own drama like this before. We really need to contact President Fang of Haofang Agency, apologize immediately, and then find a way to avoid clashing schedules with this xianxia drama!”

He Ruozhou sighed.

While the outside world may not understand what’s happening, everyone at Yun Province TV knows that without the ‘Ace Mediation’ show featuring Wang Xiaobin, Haofang Culture might never have pursued a xianxia drama.

Besides, it seems that

if this isn’t thoroughly resolved, scheduling conflicts for xianxia dramas could just be the beginning.

“Apologize? Sigh!”

Cui Fangshan massaged his temples.

“Leader, didn’t you say that after the New Year we’d work on this together…”

Seeing Cui Fangshan’s dejected expression, He Ruozhou hurriedly interjected, assuming their leader had changed his mind.

“I never said we wouldn’t go; I meant we need to show our sincerity! Without enough genuine effort, Haofang Culture probably won’t even shift their schedule.”

Cui Fangshan shook his head.

In reality, an apology isn’t as simple as a casual ‘sorry’ from a textbook. However, with backing from both Mingsha Tourism and Yan City TV, Haofang Culture and Haofang Agency seem to have everything they need.

“Leader, though, don’t they already have plenty over there?”

He Ruozhou pondered for a moment before replying.

“Oh? Do tell.”

Cui Fangshan’s interest was clearly piqued by He Ruozhou’s suggestion.

“Leader, while Haofang Culture has already produced three hit TV series and one highly acclaimed film, for various reasons these shows have made the dramas popular while keeping the stars in the background.

Haofang Agency has so far launched only two top-tier artists. Although the Tiger Leopard Band is a major name in the music scene, they are barely involved in film and television.

He Ruozhou leaned forward.

“Take Langya Pavilion, for instance—it made the lead actor Hu Xiao famous, while ‘Longmen Inn’ enjoyed rave reviews and high ticket sales, though the audience mostly focused on the fight scenes and setting.

Only Jin Xiangyu and Director Cao managed to spark any real discussion, but nothing set off a full-blown breakout.

“Are you suggesting we help Haofang Agency promote their artists?”

Upon hearing this,

Cui Fangshan immediately began to deliberate.

“Leader, Haofang Agency’s ability to promote talent is absolutely top-tier in the industry! A single New Year’s Eve gala propelled the Tiger Leopard Band into superstar status, so they really don’t need our assistance.”

He Ruozhou shook his head slightly.

“Oh? Then what do you propose?”

“From what I’ve observed, Haofang Agency’s current challenges are partly due to the overwhelming buzz around Mingsha Tourism. Even emerging talents who finally build some momentum end up being overshadowed. They need artists who are truly capable but haven’t yet had their breakthrough.”

“They need artists—but our station doesn’t have any,”

Cui Fangshan’s expression shifted subtly.

“Leader, we don’t need to directly select artists for them. All we have to do is act as an intermediary!”

He Ruozhou added.

“So, do you have anyone in mind?”

After a brief pause, Cui Fangshan looked at He Ruozhou.

According to He Ruozhou’s analysis, this could be an excellent gesture of goodwill, and best of all, Yun Province TV wouldn’t have to invest heavily.

“Yes—for example, the long-silent Cheng Kun and Long Port artist Zhou Xing. Both have proven talent and skill, but for various reasons they split from their previous agency and are now freelancers. Frankly, they’ve been suppressed and have no roles lined up. They truly need a company like Haofang Agency.”

“I know those two—they’ve worked with us before!”

Cui Fangshan nodded.

“Leader, then what do you decide?”

“Alright, you first reach out to these two artists and work to secure a deal.”

“Understood, Leader!”

He Ruozhou beamed, nodding emphatically.

Night deepened.

At the Ancient Building Courtyard in Wudi City, after a bustling day, Xu Hao finally sat down at the tea table. Zhu Qiang and Luo Peng were also present.

“How are things at the guesthouses today?”

Pouring tea for the two, Xu Hao inquired.

Qingming Scroll had entered its critical final phase, leaving no room for error. Xu Hao devoted all his energy to it—even when Han Xiaoqing messaged, he could only reply in passing.

Thus, he had no time to worry about the guesthouses.

“Brother Hao, today our scenic area set a record with its revenue. The ‘Search for Langya Talents’ event by Langya Pavilion and the challenge event at Longmen Inn were both well received by visitors. The large commercial street at Oasis 3, in particular, not only impressed our staff but also earned high praise from many guests for its convenience and variety.”

Zhu Qiang added hastily.

Previously, the guesthouses brought in around 3 million a day, but today’s figures showed nearly 6 million.

While partly due to the introduction of two new IP landmarks, doubling revenue without a significant increase in guesthouses shows just how many tourists turned up today.

“Oh!”

Xu Hao nodded.

“Brother Hao, although today’s income was impressive, several issues have also surfaced.”

After a pause, Zhu Qiang continued.

“Are you referring to the transportation issues for tourists?”

Xu Hao’s expression shifted.

“Yes! Even though President Luo’s quirky mounts managed to save the day at the last minute by diverting the crowd’s attention, it’s clear that as our attractions are built farther out, the old ways of travel just won’t suffice!

Public carriages and camel caravans take forever to reach Langya Pavilion. The tourists simply can’t wait.

Zhu Qiang nodded.

Back when it was only Qixia Town and Wudi City, the issue wasn’t too pronounced, but now it’s reached a point where it must be addressed. With plans to develop Oasis 23—which is about a dozen kilometers from Qixia Town—imagine how far it is from the city gate.

How will they get there?

It might take three or four hours just traveling the road!