Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by the pre-made dish brand, Tai Er Suancaiyu, under the Jiumaojiu Group, highlighting a significant reduction in store numbers and declining operational efficiency [2][3][5]. Group 1: Company Performance - Tai Er Suancaiyu claims to serve "live fish made on-site" but has faced scrutiny regarding its operational practices, with many stores currently closed for renovations [3]. - The number of Tai Er Suancaiyu stores has decreased by 68 in the past six months, indicating a significant contraction within the brand [3]. - The brand's revenue for the first half of 2025 dropped to 1.946 billion yuan, a year-on-year decline of approximately 13.25% from 2.244 billion yuan in 2024 [5]. Group 2: Operational Efficiency - The turnover rate for Tai Er Suancaiyu decreased from 2.7 in 2024 to 2.2 in 2025, indicating fewer customer visits during the same operating hours [4]. - The average customer spending increased slightly from 71 yuan in 2024 to 73 yuan in 2025, but same-store sales fell by 19%, suggesting a decline in customer traffic and changes in dining duration [4]. - The overall performance of Jiumaojiu Group also reflects a downward trend, with a 10.1% decline in revenue to 2.753 billion yuan in the first half of 2025, and a net profit drop of 31.3% to 61 million yuan [7]. Group 3: Strategic Adjustments - Jiumaojiu Group is shifting its focus towards franchise models to reduce operational costs, with 10 self-operated stores converted to franchises [3]. - Despite the challenges, there are signs of improvement, as the same-store daily sales decline has narrowed in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter, indicating that new store formats and menu optimizations may be starting to yield results [8].

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Tai Er Sauerkraut Fish's use of pre-prepared ingredients has led to a decline in customer interest, with only 12% of its stores reportedly serving freshly killed fish [1][4]. Group 1: Customer Experience and Operations - A recent test revealed that three dishes at a Tai Er Sauerkraut Fish store were served within 7 minutes, raising questions about the freshness of ingredients [1]. - Store staff confirmed that fish is delivered and sliced on-site, but not all locations use live fish, with only one store in Hangzhou reportedly serving live fish [2]. - The company emphasizes transparency in food preparation, allowing customers to view the cooking process [1]. Group 2: Business Performance - Tai Er Sauerkraut Fish's parent company, Jiumaojiu, reported a revenue of 1.948 billion yuan from Tai Er, a year-on-year decline of 13.3% [4]. - The proportion of revenue from Tai Er decreased from 73.4% to 70.8% in the first half of 2025, attributed to a reduction in the number of self-operated restaurants from 612 to 547 [4]. - The company has introduced a "5.0 Fresh Model" to combat declining sales, focusing on fresh ingredients and upgrading restaurant decor and kitchen operations [4]. Group 3: Historical Context and Brand Positioning - Tai Er Sauerkraut Fish was once considered a leader in the sauerkraut fish segment, achieving a high table turnover rate of 4.8 times per day, comparable to Haidilao [3]. - The brand's strict customer policies, such as not accommodating groups larger than four, contributed to its popularity and operational efficiency during its peak [3]. Group 4: Current Challenges - The current seating rate for Tai Er Sauerkraut Fish is reported to be below 50%, indicating a significant drop in customer engagement [4].

Core Viewpoint - The recent closure of multiple locations of the popular restaurant chain Tai Er Suancaiyu indicates a significant decline in performance for the parent company, Jiumaojiu Group, which has seen a drop in revenue and profitability across its brands [1][8][12]. Company Performance - Jiumaojiu Group reported a revenue of 2.753 billion yuan for the first half of the year, a year-on-year decrease of 10.14% [8]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders was 60.69 million yuan, down 16.05% compared to the previous year [8]. - Revenue from Tai Er Suancaiyu specifically was 1.949 billion yuan, reflecting a decline of 13.3% year-on-year, with its contribution to total revenue decreasing from 73.4% to 70.8% [10][11]. Store Closures - A total of 88 restaurants were closed by Jiumaojiu Group in the first half of the year, primarily due to the expiration of lease agreements and underperformance of certain locations [12]. - In Nanjing, 6 out of 10 Tai Er Suancaiyu locations have closed, with the last customer reviews dating back two months [8][10]. Industry Trends - The restaurant industry is experiencing a shift in consumer preferences, which may be impacting the performance of Jiumaojiu Group and its brands [8]. - The group opened only 10 new restaurants in the first half of the year, a significant decrease from 59 openings in the same period last year, indicating a slowdown in expansion efforts [11].

Core Insights - The well-known restaurant brand Tai Er Suancaiyu is facing a wave of store closures in multiple cities, raising concerns about its expansion bottleneck or operational adjustments [1] - Despite the closure of one store in Jinan, the remaining four locations continue to see high customer traffic, indicating a mixed market response [2] Group 1: Store Performance - One store in Jinan has closed, while four others remain busy with long queues during peak hours, suggesting a divergence in performance across locations [2] - The atmosphere in the busy stores remains lively, with high seating occupancy and a bustling environment, indicating that the brand still retains a loyal customer base [2] Group 2: Consumer Sentiment - Loyal customers express continued support for the brand, emphasizing the importance of taste and unique dining experience [3] - Some consumers express concerns about potential declines in quality or brand appeal due to the recent closures, although their actual dining experiences remain satisfactory [3] Group 3: Brand Strategy - Tai Er Suancaiyu has launched a significant brand upgrade initiative called "5.0 Fresh Model," focusing on fresh ingredients like live fish, fresh chicken, and fresh beef [4] - The brand's strategy includes renovations of several stores and the introduction of open kitchen concepts to enhance transparency and freshness perception among consumers [5] - This strategic shift aims to address market criticisms regarding the use of pre-prepared dishes and to cater to the growing consumer demand for fresh and healthy dining options [5]

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of the Hong Kong Stock Connect eligible securities list, effective from September 8, has led to the removal of 20 stocks, including Jiumaojiu (09922.HK), which may be related to changes in the restaurant industry trends and shifts in investor preferences [2]. Financial Performance - Jiumaojiu reported a revenue of 2.753 billion yuan in the first half of the year, a year-on-year decline of 10.14%, and a net profit attributable to shareholders of 60.69 million yuan, down 16.05% [2]. - The revenue from its main brands, including Taier Sauerkraut Fish, Song Hotpot, and Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine, all experienced declines during the reporting period [2]. Brand-Specific Performance - Taier Sauerkraut Fish generated a revenue of 1.948 billion yuan, a decrease of 13.3%, with its revenue share dropping from 73.4% to 70.8% year-on-year. The number of self-operated restaurants decreased from 612 to 547, and same-store sales also declined [5][6]. - Song Hotpot's revenue was 416 million yuan, down 3.5%, attributed to a decrease in table turnover rate and customer spending. The turnover rate fell from 2.9 times per day to 2.5 times [9]. - Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine reported a revenue of 226 million yuan, a decline of 22.6%, due to a decrease in restaurant numbers and turnover rates [9]. Business Adjustments - In response to declining sales, Taier has launched a "5.0 Fresh Model" focusing on fresh ingredients and has renovated some locations to enhance the dining experience [6]. - Jiumaojiu opened 10 new restaurants in the first half of the year, a significant decrease from 59 in the same period last year, while closing 88 restaurants due to lease terminations and underperformance [12]. Financial Health - The company's cash and cash equivalents decreased to 489 million yuan, a 19.4% drop from the end of last year, primarily due to increased cash deposits and loan repayments. The debt-to-asset ratio improved from 51.4% to 47.3% [12].

Core Viewpoint - The adjustment of the Hong Kong Stock Connect eligible securities list by the Shenzhen Stock Exchange reflects market judgments on corporate prospects and shifts in industry trends and investor preferences [2]. Group 1: Company Performance - In the first half of the year, the company reported a decline in both revenue and net profit, with revenue of 2.753 billion yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 10.14%, and a net profit of 60.69 million yuan, down 16.05% [2]. - The company's main revenue sources, including brands such as Taier, Song Hotpot, and Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine, all experienced revenue declines during the reporting period [3]. - Taier's revenue was 1.948 billion yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 13.3%, with its contribution to total revenue dropping from 73.4% to 70.8% [3]. Group 2: Brand Adjustments - In response to declining sales, Taier launched the "5.0 Fresh Model," focusing on fresh ingredients and upgrading its menu, while also renovating some locations [3]. - The company faced consumer skepticism regarding its pre-prepared dishes, prompting adjustments to address these concerns [4]. - Song Hotpot's revenue was 416 million yuan, down 3.5%, attributed to a decrease in table turnover and average customer spending [4]. Group 3: Store Expansion and Closures - The company opened 10 new restaurants in the first half of the year, a significant slowdown compared to 59 new openings in the same period last year [5]. - The company closed 88 restaurants, primarily due to the expiration of lease agreements and underperformance of certain locations [5]. - Analysts have revised the company's net profit forecasts for 2025-2027 down to 100 million yuan, 110 million yuan, and 130 million yuan, respectively, and adjusted the target price from 3.7 HKD to 3 HKD [5].

Core Viewpoint - The Shenzhen Stock Exchange announced adjustments to the Hong Kong Stock Connect eligible securities list, removing a total of 20 stocks, including Jiumaojiu (09922.HK) [1][2] Group 1: Company Performance - Jiumaojiu reported a decline in both revenue and net profit for the first half of the year, with revenue of 2.753 billion yuan, down 10.14% year-on-year, and a net profit of 60.69 million yuan, down 16.05% [2][5] - The company's main revenue sources, including Taier Suancaiyu, Song Hotpot, and Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine, all experienced revenue declines during the reporting period [3] - Taier Suancaiyu's revenue was 1.949 billion yuan, a decrease of 13.3% year-on-year, with its contribution to total revenue dropping from 73.4% to 70.8% [3] Group 2: Operational Adjustments - Taier Suancaiyu has launched a "5.0 Fresh Model" to address declining sales, focusing on fresh ingredients and restaurant renovations [3][4] - The number of Taier restaurants decreased from 612 to 547, impacting same-store sales [3] - The company opened 10 new restaurants in the first half of the year, a significant slowdown compared to 59 new openings in the same period last year [4] Group 3: Market Sentiment and Future Outlook - The company closed 88 restaurants in the first half of the year due to lease expirations and underperformance [5] - Analysts have revised Jiumaojiu's net profit forecasts for 2025-2027 down to 100 million yuan, 110 million yuan, and 130 million yuan, respectively, and lowered the target price from 3.7 HKD to 3 HKD [5] - As of September 12, Jiumaojiu's stock closed at 2.31 HKD, down 0.43%, with a total market capitalization of 3.2 billion HKD [6]

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of the Hong Kong Stock Connect eligible securities list, effective from September 8, has led to the removal of 20 stocks, including Jiumaojiu (09922.HK), which may be related to changes in the restaurant industry trends and shifts in investor preferences [1] Company Performance - Jiumaojiu reported a revenue of 2.753 billion yuan for the first half of the year, a year-on-year decrease of 10.14%, and a net profit attributable to shareholders of 60.69 million yuan, down 16.05% [1] - The company's revenue primarily comes from its three major brands: Taier, Song Hotpot, and Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine, all of which experienced revenue declines during the reporting period [1] - Revenue from Taier was 1.949 billion yuan, a decrease of 13.3%, with its contribution to total revenue dropping from 73.4% to 70.8% [1] - The number of Taier restaurants decreased from 612 to 547, a reduction of 65 locations, and same-store sales also declined [1] - Song Hotpot's revenue was 416 million yuan, down 3.5%, attributed to a decrease in table turnover rate and customer spending [2] - Revenue from Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine was 226 million yuan, a decrease of 22.6%, due to a reduction in restaurant numbers and lower table turnover [2] - Other business revenues increased by 75.6% to 162 million yuan, mainly due to the growth of "Mountain's Outside Guizhou Sour Soup Hotpot" restaurants and increased sales to third parties [2] Expansion and Closure - In the first half of 2025, Jiumaojiu opened 10 new restaurants, including 3 Taier, 5 Song Hotpot, and 2 cooperative model restaurants, a significant slowdown compared to 59 new openings in the same period last year [2] - The company closed 88 restaurants during the same period, primarily due to the expiration of lease agreements and underperformance of certain locations [2] Financial Health - As of the first half of the year, Jiumaojiu's cash and cash equivalents amounted to 489 million yuan, a decrease of 19.4% from the end of last year, mainly due to more cash being deposited in fixed accounts and repayment of bank loans [3] - The company's debt-to-asset ratio improved from 51.4% at the end of last year to 47.3% in the first half of this year [3] Industry Trends - The restaurant industry in China is experiencing a slowdown, with major players like Haidilao and Xibei also reducing their expansion pace and focusing on refined operations and differentiated competition [5] - The China Hotel Association noted that the market is undergoing structural adjustments, with significant potential in new consumer scenarios such as the silver economy and emotional value consumption [5]

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of the Hong Kong Stock Connect eligible securities list has led to the removal of 20 stocks, including Jiumaojiu (09922.HK), which may be related to changes in the restaurant industry trends and shifts in investor preferences [1] Financial Performance - Jiumaojiu reported a revenue of 2.753 billion yuan for the first half of the year, a year-on-year decrease of 10.14%, and a net profit attributable to shareholders of 60.69 million yuan, down 16.05% [1] - Revenue from the main brands, including Taier, Song Hotpot, and Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine, all experienced declines during the reporting period [1] - Taier's revenue was 1.949 billion yuan, a decrease of 13.3%, with its contribution to total revenue dropping from 73.4% to 70.8% [1] - Song Hotpot's revenue was 416 million yuan, down 3.5%, attributed to a decline in table turnover rate and customer spending [2] - Jiumaojiu Northwest Cuisine's revenue was 226 million yuan, a decrease of 22.6%, due to a reduction in restaurant numbers and table turnover rate [2] - Other business revenues increased by 75.6% to 162 million yuan, mainly due to the growth of "Mountain's Outside Guizhou Sour Soup Hotpot" restaurants and increased sales to third parties [2] Operational Changes - The company opened 10 new restaurants in the first half of the year, a significant decrease from 59 new openings in the same period last year, while closing 88 restaurants due to lease terminations and underperformance [2] - As of June 30, the company operated 695 self-owned restaurants and 34 franchise/cooperative restaurants globally, employing over 20,000 people [4] Cash Flow and Financial Health - The company's cash and cash equivalents decreased to 489 million yuan, a 19.4% decline from the end of last year, primarily due to increased deposits in fixed accounts and loan repayments [3] - The asset-liability ratio improved from 51.4% at the end of last year to 47.3% in the first half of this year [3]

Summary of the Conference Call for Jiumaojiu Company Overview - **Company**: Jiumaojiu - **Industry**: Restaurant and Food Service Key Points and Arguments Business Model and Performance - Jiumaojiu has launched a new model focusing on fresh ingredients, transitioning from a single dish (sour fish) to three signature dishes with a variety of hot dishes. As of July, 64 new model stores have been established, with a target of over 150 by the end of the year and full implementation by the end of 2026 [2][3][5] - The new model has shown a 10% year-on-year increase in revenue and a 15% increase in dine-in revenue for July and August, significantly outperforming the old model [2][5] - In the first half of 2025, the company reported a net profit of 61 million RMB, maintaining a net profit margin of 2.2%, consistent with the previous year [3][5] Store Optimization and Closure - The company is actively optimizing its store structure, planning to close 68 self-operated stores and 3 franchise stores in the first half of 2025, with an additional 40 to 50 closures expected in the second half [2][3] - These closures are anticipated to impact short-term revenue but are viewed as beneficial for long-term health [2][3] Supply Chain and Cost Management - The introduction of live fish delivery to stores has been implemented, with the supply chain focusing on vegetable cleaning, rough processing, and sauce preparation. The self-supply ratio of bass fish remains below 30% [2][9] - The new model has slightly reduced gross margins by 1-2 percentage points, but future gross margins are expected to stabilize around 64% [7][8] Consumer Trends and Market Positioning - The company has observed a shift in consumer demographics, with a decrease in young customers and an increase in family diners, leading to higher expectations for food quality and dining experience [4][11] - To adapt, Jiumaojiu is enhancing its fresh ingredient offerings and overall dining experience to meet these evolving consumer demands [4][11] Future Plans and Financial Outlook - The company aims to achieve over 18% operating profit margin per store and plans to complete the renovation of all stores by 2026, with a capital expenditure budget exceeding 300 million RMB [7][19][20] - Retail business revenue is projected to grow, with sales contributions expected to reach 110-120 million RMB in the first half of 2025 [16] Challenges and Strategic Adjustments - The company has decided to discontinue pre-packaged sour fish due to negative brand perception, with plans to reintroduce it after establishing a fresh concept across all stores [17][18] - The sour fish category is still expanding, and the company plans to enhance customer retention by diversifying its menu offerings [18] Conclusion - Jiumaojiu is undergoing significant transformation with a focus on fresh ingredients and improved customer experience, while strategically closing underperforming stores to strengthen its market position and profitability in the long term [2][3][4][5][11]