Core Viewpoint - The new tea beverage brand "Hushang Ayi" is set to go public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, becoming the fifth new tea brand to list after successful IPOs of competitors like Nayuki and Mixue Ice City, with market attention focused on its performance amid previous listing challenges in the sector [1][2]. Expansion Strategy - Hushang Ayi has rapidly expanded its store network from 5,307 at the end of 2022 to an expected 9,176 by the end of 2024, with 99.7% of these stores operated by franchisees, indicating a light-asset operational model that facilitates market penetration [1][6]. - The brand strategically targets lower-tier markets, claiming a strong market position in mid-priced tea beverage stores across over 300 cities in China, with a significant number of stores located in third-tier and below cities [2][3]. Market Dynamics - The tea beverage industry is experiencing a shift towards stock competition, with Hushang Ayi aiming to capture market share through a multi-brand strategy and low-price model, particularly in underdeveloped markets [3][9]. - The competitive landscape is intensifying, with numerous brands lacking significant differentiation, leading to potential challenges in maintaining market share [9]. Financial Performance - Hushang Ayi's average single-store GMV decreased from RMB 1.6 million in 2023 to RMB 1.4 million in 2024, with total revenue slightly declining by 1.9% to RMB 3.285 billion, attributed to reduced income from franchise-related and self-operated stores [6][8]. - Despite the decline in average GMV, approximately 48.8% of new stores in 2024 were opened by existing franchisees, indicating a strong willingness to reinvest within the franchise system [6]. Franchise Model - The franchise model has allowed Hushang Ayi to expand rapidly, with 96.5% of its revenue coming from franchise operations, but it also poses risks related to quality control and operational oversight [6][7]. - The company mandates that franchisees source most ingredients from its centralized procurement platform, which includes a comprehensive supply chain network [7][8]. Future Outlook - Analysts predict that 2025 will mark a critical juncture for the tea and coffee sectors, with increasing competition and a focus on supply chain efficiency and product differentiation becoming essential for sustainable growth [8][9]. - Hushang Ayi has begun exploring international markets, although it currently operates only one overseas store, highlighting the potential for future expansion [8].
加盟率99.7% 沪上阿姨轻资产模式能否撑起上市梦？