Core Viewpoint - The lingerie industry is facing significant challenges as a growing number of women, particularly those born after 1995, are opting to forgo bras, which is reshaping consumer preferences and impacting sales across the sector [2][10]. Industry Overview - The lingerie market is experiencing a downturn, with major companies reporting declining sales and profits. In 2024, five leading publicly listed companies in the industry saw a comprehensive decline in their lingerie business, with two A-share companies experiencing a halving of their performance [5][9]. - Aimer, one of the A-share companies, reported a revenue of 3.163 billion yuan, a decrease of 7.71% year-on-year, and a net profit of 163 million yuan, down 46.56% [6]. - Huijie Co., known as the "first A-share lingerie stock," saw a slight revenue increase of 0.85% to 2.95 billion yuan, but its net profit plummeted by 56.54% to 79.04 million yuan, indicating that its core bra business is struggling [8]. Consumer Behavior Changes - A significant shift in consumer preferences is noted, with comfort becoming the primary concern for lingerie buyers, as 32% of users prioritize comfort over other factors [12]. - Many consumers are increasingly opting for alternatives to traditional bras, such as silicone pasties, to avoid discomfort while still addressing concerns about visibility [14]. - Social media platforms are amplifying this trend, with discussions around the discomfort of wearing bras gaining traction, leading to a cultural shift where not wearing a bra is becoming more accepted [15]. Market Dynamics - The lingerie industry is facing intensified competition from lower-priced brands, which is undermining the pricing strategies of mid-to-high-end brands [9][21]. - The overall economic downturn and sluggish consumer spending are contributing to the industry's challenges, making it difficult for brands to maintain profitability [10][21]. Future Outlook - The lingerie industry must adapt to these changing consumer preferences and address the comfort and fit issues that have been highlighted by consumers. Brands need to innovate and enhance their offerings to meet the evolving demands of the market [20][21].

Core Insights - The apparel industry in China is experiencing a slowdown in growth, with retail sales of clothing reaching 1,071.62 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a mere 0.1% increase year-on-year, a significant decline of 15.3% compared to 2023 [1] - Among 25 selected publicly listed companies in the apparel sector, only 7 reported increases in both revenue and net profit, while 10 companies experienced declines in both metrics [1][2] Revenue and Profit Overview - In 2024, 15 companies reported a decline in net profit, and 13 saw a decrease in revenue. Notably, 10 companies experienced declines in both revenue and net profit [2] - Companies with declining performance include: - Baoxini: Revenue of 5.153 billion yuan, down 1.91%; net profit of 495 million yuan, down 29.07% [2][3] - Hailan Home: Revenue of 20.957 billion yuan, down 2.65%; net profit of 2.159 billion yuan, down 26.88% [2][3] - Sanfu Outdoor: Revenue of 800 million yuan, down 5.45%; net profit loss of 21 million yuan, down 158.83% [2][3] - Anzheng Fashion: Revenue of 2.034 billion yuan, down 6.23%; net profit loss of 124 million yuan, down 365.03% [2][3] - Aimer: Revenue of 3.163 billion yuan, down 7.71%; net profit of 163 million yuan, down 46.56% [2][3] Losses and Underperformance - Six companies reported losses, including: - Ge Li Si: Loss of 310 million yuan [4][5] - Sanfu Outdoor: Loss of 21 million yuan [4][5] - Anzheng Fashion: Loss of 124 million yuan [4][5] - Xinhe Shares: Loss of 67 million yuan [4][5] - Meibang Clothing: Loss of 195 million yuan [4][5] - Annai: Loss of 115 million yuan [4][5] Performance Rankings - The top three companies in revenue growth are: - 361 Degrees: 19.6% growth [7] - Tanshan: 14.44% growth [7] - Anta Sports: 13.6% growth [7] - The bottom three in revenue growth are: - Meibang Clothing: -49.79% [7] - Annai: -20.7% [7] - Xinhe Shares: -20.1% [7] Net Profit Growth Rankings - The top three companies in net profit growth are: - Urban Beauty: 197% growth [9] - Anta Sports: 52.4% growth [9] - Tanshan: 48.5% growth [9] - The bottom three in net profit growth are: - Meibang Clothing: -715.45% [9] - Ge Li Si: -392.99% [9] - Anzheng Fashion: -365.03% [9]

Financial Performance - The company's profit attributable to shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately RMB 126,157,000, representing a growth of about 197% compared to RMB 42,483,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023[9]. - The profit attributable to the owners of the company for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately RMB 126,157,000, an increase of about 197% compared to RMB 42,483,000 in 2023[19]. - Revenue from intimate apparel products was RMB 2,554,880,000, accounting for 84.9% of total revenue, while revenue from logistics and industrial projects was RMB 455,250,000, accounting for 15.1%[20]. - The company's revenue for the year ending December 31, 2024, is projected to be RMB 3,010.13 million, an increase from RMB 2,757.08 million for the year ending December 31, 2023[170]. - The gross profit margin for the group remained stable at approximately 45.7%, with the gross profit margin for intimate apparel products at about 47.3%[22]. E-commerce and Market Expansion - The e-commerce gross merchandise value (GMV) exceeded RMB 1.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024, marking a growth of over 100% compared to the previous year[14]. - The company successfully expanded its e-commerce business, achieving a total gross merchandise value (GMV) of approximately RMB 1.1 billion from related e-commerce platforms[26]. - The company successfully expanded its offline store network, achieving net growth in store numbers despite a challenging market environment[12]. - The "Pure Cotton Home" brand achieved a revenue growth of approximately 50% year-on-year in 2024, with expectations to double store numbers and revenue by 2025[13]. Cost Management and Financial Stability - Sales and marketing expenses decreased by approximately 7.5% to about RMB 1,019,925,000, primarily due to changes in e-commerce business strategy and optimized marketing investments[23]. - General and administrative expenses decreased by approximately 5.4% to about RMB 184,383,000, attributed to effective cost control measures[24]. - The net financial expenses decreased to approximately RMB 19,840,000, mainly due to a reduction in bank loan interest expenses[27]. - The group maintained a solid financial position with cash and cash equivalents of approximately RMB 621,871,000 and a current ratio of about 1.6 times[29]. - The total debt ratio was approximately 19.6%, indicating a slight decrease from 20.4% in the previous year[29]. Corporate Governance and Management - The company has a strong management team with extensive experience in operations and strategic planning, including independent directors with over 21 years of financial and accounting experience[50]. - The company has adopted the principles outlined in the Corporate Governance Code as per the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, except for the separation of roles between the Chairman and CEO[58]. - The board consists of 11 members, including 5 executive directors, 2 non-executive directors, and 4 independent non-executive directors[59]. - The company has implemented a mechanism to ensure the independence of the board, which is crucial for effective corporate governance[69]. - The company is committed to high standards of corporate governance, emphasizing quality management, transparency, and accountability to all shareholders[57]. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Initiatives - The company is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 and has integrated this concept into its business operations, complying with environmental regulations[110]. - The company has established an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) working group to collect data and prepare the ESG report, ensuring regular reviews of its ESG performance[111]. - The company has achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification for its environmental management system, demonstrating its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability[160]. - The company aims to balance economic success with stakeholder expectations and environmental needs, reflecting its core values in daily operations[115]. - The company has implemented strict environmental management systems to minimize negative impacts on the environment and natural resources[172]. Employee Management and Workplace Culture - The company employed approximately 2,200 full-time employees as of December 31, 2024, down from 2,600 the previous year[39]. - The company emphasizes a diverse and inclusive work environment, with recruitment based on merit regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity[124]. - The company has implemented a comprehensive employee benefits system, including compliance with social insurance laws and additional commercial accident insurance for specific roles[126]. - The employee turnover rate increased to 20.86% in 2024 from 15.19% in 2023, with significant increases among females (22.55% vs. 16.14%) and employees under 30 (31.34% vs. 23.29%)[128]. - The company has achieved ISO45001:2018 certification for its occupational health and safety management system, reflecting its commitment to providing a safe working environment[133]. Community Engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility - The company has actively engaged in corporate social responsibility since 2009, contributing to community welfare through donations and support[112]. - The company participated in community charity activities, including tree planting and educational contributions, in 2024[183]. - The company donated 488 sets of thermal underwear and homewear to various community groups in 2024, supporting vulnerable populations[178]. - The company organized various employee engagement activities in 2024 to enhance team cohesion and promote a healthy work-life balance[129]. - The company is committed to corporate social responsibility and plans to continue giving back to society in the future[183].

Summary of Conference Call Company and Industry - The conference call pertains to a company in the apparel industry, specifically focusing on intimate wear and related products. Key Points and Arguments 1. **Revenue Growth**: The company reported a revenue of RMB 30.1 billion for 2024, representing a 9% increase from RMB 27.57 billion in 2023 [1][5][6]. 2. **Gross Margin Decline**: The gross margin decreased from 47.5% in the previous year to 45.7% in 2024, attributed to lower margins from industrial projects compared to core business [6][7]. 3. **Profit Increase**: The company's profit increased significantly, from approximately RMB 42 million in the previous year to RMB 126.1 million in 2024, marking a twofold increase [6][10]. 4. **Dividend Distribution**: The company initiated dividend payments for the first time post-pandemic, with a distribution of HKD 1.6 per share [6][10]. 5. **Sales Strategy Shift**: A strategic shift from self-operated to a combination of self-operated and joint-operated models was implemented, leading to a GMV of RMB 15.7 billion in 2023 [4][9][22]. 6. **Market Positioning**: The company aims to strengthen its market position in key provinces, focusing on both online and offline sales channels [19][21]. 7. **Brand Marketing Initiatives**: Significant investments in brand marketing were made, including partnerships with national sports teams and extensive advertising campaigns across various platforms [20][21]. 8. **Product Diversification**: The company introduced new product lines and maintained a focus on high-quality offerings, with a notable increase in sales for certain brands [11][25]. 9. **E-commerce Growth**: The e-commerce segment showed substantial growth, with a GMV increase of 100% year-over-year, indicating a strong online presence [22][42]. 10. **Inventory Management**: Effective inventory management strategies were highlighted, with a reduction of RMB 200 million in old inventory, contributing to improved gross margins [39][40]. Other Important but Possibly Overlooked Content 1. **Operational Efficiency**: The company emphasized improvements in operational efficiency and cost control, which contributed to better profit margins despite revenue challenges [9][15]. 2. **Future Outlook**: The management expressed optimism about future growth, particularly in e-commerce and market expansion in lower-tier cities [28][32]. 3. **Asset Utilization**: The company is actively working on asset optimization, including the sale of underperforming properties to enhance cash flow [43][44]. 4. **Shareholder Returns**: Discussions on shareholder returns included a focus on dividends rather than share buybacks, with a projected return rate of approximately 6% based on current share prices [44]. This summary encapsulates the essential insights from the conference call, highlighting the company's performance, strategic initiatives, and future outlook within the apparel industry.

Core Viewpoint - Despite achieving profitability, the survival situation of the traditional lingerie brand Urban Beauty remains challenging due to reliance on non-core revenue sources and declining main business performance [1][2]. Financial Performance - Urban Beauty reported a total revenue of 3.01 billion yuan in 2024, representing a year-on-year increase of 9.18% [1]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders reached 126 million yuan, marking a significant year-on-year growth of 196.96% [1]. - The revenue from industrial projects and logistics contributed 455 million yuan, accounting for approximately half of the profit from this segment [2]. Revenue Sources - The increase in revenue was primarily driven by the sale of factory buildings, which provided a one-time boost to financial performance [1][2]. - The company’s e-commerce gross merchandise volume (GMV) exceeded 1.5 billion yuan, showing a growth of over 100% year-on-year [2]. - Urban Beauty's main business revenue from intimate apparel recorded 2.555 billion yuan, a decline from 2.643 billion yuan in 2023 [3][4]. Cost Management and Challenges - The decline in main business revenue was attributed to the reduction of low-efficiency self-operated e-commerce platforms, leading to a decrease in related e-commerce income [4]. - The gross profit margin for intimate apparel decreased by 0.7 percentage points to 47.3% due to increased promotional activities and inventory clearance efforts [5]. Strategic Adjustments - Urban Beauty is shifting its focus from purely sales volume to the profitability of franchisees, with plans to increase the number of stores to over 5,000 by 2025 [5]. - The company is transitioning its ordering model from a futures-based system to a real-time inventory system to enhance product sell-through rates and reduce channel inventory [5]. Future Outlook - Urban Beauty is exploring opportunities in overseas markets, particularly through cross-border e-commerce in Southeast Asia, with plans to finalize strategies in the near future [6].

Core Viewpoint - After a painful transformation period, the company Urban Beauty has returned to a net profit level of over 100 million RMB for the first time in six years, driven not only by its lingerie business but also by significant income from property sales [1][2]. Financial Performance - In 2024, Urban Beauty achieved a revenue of 3.01 billion RMB, representing a year-on-year growth of 9.18%. The profit attributable to the owners was 126 million RMB, a substantial increase of 197% [1][2]. - The revenue breakdown shows that the core business of intimate apparel contributed 2.555 billion RMB, while non-core logistics and property sales contributed 132 million RMB and 323 million RMB, respectively [2][3]. Property Sales Contribution - The property sales generated over 300 million RMB in revenue, contributing approximately 60-70 million RMB to the company's profit after tax, which accounts for about half of the total profit for 2024 [4][6]. - The company has plans to continue selling properties based on existing industrial project resources, with a significant project in Dongguan contributing to this income [5][6]. E-commerce and Market Strategy - The main business of intimate apparel saw a revenue decline of 3.33%, primarily due to a 21.63% drop in e-commerce revenue, as the company shifted some e-commerce channels from direct sales to joint ventures [6][7]. - Despite the revenue decline, the e-commerce gross merchandise volume (GMV) exceeded 1.5 billion RMB, showing over 100% year-on-year growth, indicating a strategic focus on market share rather than immediate revenue [6][7]. Store Expansion and Future Plans - Urban Beauty opened 850 new stores in the past year, bringing the total to over 4,500, with a target of reaching 5,000 stores by 2025, focusing on store efficiency rather than just quantity [7]. - The company is also exploring international expansion through cross-border e-commerce, particularly in Southeast Asia, with ongoing research and planning [7].

Core Viewpoint - The apparel industry is facing significant challenges in 2024, with weak consumer demand and intense competition leading to squeezed profit margins. However, Urban Beauty has managed to achieve double-digit growth in both revenue and net profit, indicating a successful turnaround and effective strategies under the leadership of Chairman Zheng Yaonan [1][2]. Group 1: Financial Performance - Urban Beauty reported a revenue of 3.01 billion yuan in 2024, representing a year-on-year growth of 9.18%. The net profit reached 126 million yuan, showing a remarkable increase of 196.96% [2]. - The company has achieved three consecutive years of positive profitability, with accelerating growth rates [2][9]. Group 2: Product Innovation - Urban Beauty has focused on innovative product development, creating new offerings that meet core consumer needs such as comfort, style, and functionality, while maintaining a strong price-performance ratio [3][7]. - The launch of the soft size invisible underwear exemplifies this innovation, featuring advanced materials and design processes that enhance comfort and fit [3][5]. - The company has also introduced the Peach Cup underwear, which combines multiple advantages for women's health and aesthetics [5]. Group 3: Brand Strategy and Marketing - Urban Beauty is evolving its brand strategy by diversifying its brand portfolio and engaging in sports and entertainment marketing to strengthen its market position [11][15]. - The partnership with the Chinese national synchronized swimming team and endorsements from sports champions are part of a broader strategy to enhance brand visibility and consumer trust [11][12]. - The company has also signed popular celebrities to promote its products, creating a deeper emotional connection with consumers [15][17]. Group 4: Channel Expansion - Urban Beauty has opened over 850 new stores in 2024, bringing the total to over 4,500, focusing on major population centers to capture market share [19][21]. - The company is expanding its online presence, achieving over 100% growth in e-commerce GMV, particularly in the fast-growing instant retail segment [22]. - Urban Beauty's flexible ordering and rapid replenishment systems are designed to reduce inventory risks and enhance profitability for franchisees [22]. Group 5: Market Outlook - With consumer spending expected to rebound in 2025, Urban Beauty's strategic transformation is likely to yield better results, positioning the company favorably in the recovering market [23]. - The capital market is showing increasing interest in the consumer sector, with Urban Beauty's improved fundamentals suggesting strong mid-to-long-term growth potential [23].

Core Insights - Urban Beauty, known as "China's first lingerie stock," reported a revenue of 3.01 billion yuan for 2024, marking a year-on-year increase of 9.18% and a net profit of 126 million yuan, up 196.96% [2][4] Revenue Breakdown - The revenue growth was significantly driven by over 300 million yuan from the sale of properties, while the core business of intimate apparel saw a slight decline in sales [2][5] - The main business, intimate apparel, generated 2.555 billion yuan, a slight decrease from 2.643 billion yuan the previous year [4][5] - Non-core business revenues included 132 million yuan from logistics and 323 million yuan from industrial project sales [4] Store Expansion and Strategy - Urban Beauty opened 850 new stores in 2024, bringing the total to over 4,500, with plans to exceed 5,000 stores by the end of the year [2][8] - The company is focusing on a "strong county in major provinces" strategy, targeting six populous provinces for store openings [9][10] E-commerce and Market Share - The company reported that its e-commerce gross merchandise volume (GMV) exceeded 1.5 billion yuan, with a year-on-year growth of over 100% [5] - A shift in e-commerce strategy has occurred, moving from self-operated to partnerships with large merchants, which is expected to drive further growth [5] Operational Adjustments - Urban Beauty has adjusted its ordering system from a futures model to a spot model, allowing for better inventory management and increased profitability for franchisees [10] - The company aims to enhance store efficiency and ensure sustainable growth for franchisees, with a focus on improving the overall health of the franchise network [10]

Core Viewpoint - The company, Urban Beauty (02298), reported unexpectedly strong financial results amidst a challenging macroeconomic environment, showcasing its robust recovery in profitability and significant growth in e-commerce sales [1][2]. Financial Performance - In 2024, Urban Beauty achieved revenue of RMB 3.01 billion, a year-on-year increase of 9.18% [1] - The profit attributable to the company's owners reached RMB 126 million, reflecting a remarkable year-on-year growth of 196.96% [1]. E-commerce Growth - The company's e-commerce GMV surpassed RMB 1.5 billion, with a year-on-year growth exceeding 100% [1] - The innovative "joint venture e-commerce" model has effectively reduced channel costs and improved overall business gross margins [1]. Store Expansion Strategy - Urban Beauty opened 850 new stores, bringing the total to over 4,500, focusing on third and fourth-tier cities and county markets [2] - The company aims to enhance its market share in key provinces such as Henan, Shandong, and Sichuan through a "strong county" strategy [2]. International Expansion - The company is exploring cross-border e-commerce opportunities in Southeast Asia rather than opening physical stores abroad [3]. R&D and Product Innovation - Urban Beauty has accumulated 561 patents, focusing on innovative products like invisible bras and lightweight down jackets [3]. - The brand positions itself as "good yet affordable," integrating deeply with sports and entertainment sectors for enhanced brand recognition [3]. Marketing and Supply Chain Optimization - The company has optimized its supply chain management, introducing flexible ordering and rapid replenishment systems, leading to a 200% year-on-year increase in instant sales [4]. - Urban Beauty's marketing strategy includes extensive high-speed rail media coverage across over 29 provinces and 160 cities [4]. Future Revenue Streams - The industrial park project completed in 2024 is expected to contribute to revenue in 2025, enhancing profitability and cash flow [5]. Shareholder Returns - Urban Beauty has shown commitment to shareholder returns with a total dividend payout of HKD 11.24 million, maintaining a dividend payout ratio of approximately 30% since the pandemic [5].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article highlights the significant growth in revenue and profit for the company, with a revenue of 3.01 billion yuan in 2024, representing a 9.18% increase year-on-year, and a net profit attributable to shareholders of 126 million yuan, up 196.96% [2] - The company's revenue growth is primarily attributed to the expansion of its e-commerce business, which has significantly improved its market share in China [2] - The company has made strides in brand building, product development, channel expansion, and supply chain management, contributing to overall performance improvement [2] Group 2 - The company reported that its e-commerce GMV exceeded 1.5 billion yuan, with a year-on-year growth of over 100% [2] - The company opened more than 850 new stores, bringing the total to over 4,500, with the number of pure cotton home brand stores exceeding 100 for the first time [2] - The company has accumulated 561 patents as of 2024, including products like soft size invisible underwear and black gold lightweight down clothing [2] Group 3 - The company optimized its supply chain management by introducing a flexible ordering system and rapid replenishment mechanism, effectively reducing inventory risk and improving cash flow turnover efficiency [3] - Instant sales for the company grew by over 200% year-on-year in 2024, addressing consumer demand for quick shopping [3] - The company plans to continue deepening its presence in the Chinese market, particularly in shopping centers and e-commerce channels, with expectations of doubling the number of pure cotton home brand stores and performance by the end of 2025 [3]