Fresh produce from Rugao is displayed at a market in the Youyiqiao subway station in Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

On Sept 1, the inaugural metro market in Nantong's Youyiqiao subway station attracted a bustling crowd. Fresh and affordable local produce, including stir-fried edamame with ginger, freshly boiled peanuts, and traditional buns, drew city residents eager to sample the goods.

The market was organized in a whirlwind after Wu Zhanmei, the host of the "Wusunong" livestream account, received an invitation from Nantong Rail Transit on the afternoon of Aug 30. Wu quickly gathered local farmers and prepared products for the market.

Within just a day, everything was ready. On Sept 1, produce from eight village cooperatives and six family farms featuring over 30 products was neatly displayed at the metro station market. An online purchase channel was opened simultaneously on Douyin to reach even more customers. Shoppers could conveniently order online for home delivery when items sold out on-site.

Wu has extensive experience in e-commerce, having spent years in Hangzhou's online retail scene. She brought her expertise back to her hometown, successfully launching over 50 agricultural brands. Her efforts have helped bring rural delicacies directly to urban consumers, making fresh farm goods easily accessible.

Reflecting on the event's success, Wu was not surprised. "With high-quality products, carefully arranged settings and effective promotion, success was inevitable," she said.