Core Viewpoint - Hu Shang A Yi (02589.HK) successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange at an issue price of HKD 113.12, reflecting strong market optimism for the new tea beverage sector and the company's business model [1] Market Overview - The Chinese ready-to-drink beverage market has seen rapid growth, with the market size increasing from RMB 187.8 billion in 2018 to RMB 517.5 billion in 2023, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.5%. It is projected to reach RMB 1,163.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 17.6% [1] - The ready-to-drink tea market holds the largest share within this sector, accounting for 50% in 2023, with a market size expected to grow from RMB 108.5 billion in 2018 to RMB 258.5 billion in 2023, and further to RMB 573.2 billion by 2028 at a CAGR of 17.3% [2] Company Performance - As of December 31, 2023, Hu Shang A Yi operates the fourth-largest ready-to-drink tea store network in China, with revenues of RMB 21.99 billion in 2022, RMB 33.48 billion in 2023, and projected RMB 32.85 billion in 2024. Net profits were RMB 1.49 billion, RMB 3.88 billion, and RMB 3.29 billion for the same years [3][4] - The company has a strong focus on mid-range pricing, with a price range of RMB 10-20, filling the gap between lower-priced brands and premium offerings [5] Business Model - Hu Shang A Yi employs a franchise-focused business model, with 99.7% of its stores operated by franchisees, totaling 9,176 stores by the end of 2024, covering over 300 cities [5][6] - The company has a significant presence in lower-tier cities, with 50.4% of its stores located in third-tier and below cities, which is a strategic advantage due to lower investment costs and high demand [7][8] Revenue Breakdown - Franchise-related revenue accounted for 94.3% in 2022, 96.3% in 2023, and 96.5% in 2024, indicating a strong reliance on the franchise model for income generation [6] - Revenue from third-tier and below cities was RMB 9.45 billion in 2022, RMB 15.24 billion in 2023, and RMB 15.83 billion in 2024, representing 43.0%, 45.5%, and 48.2% of total revenue respectively [8] Strategic Focus - The company emphasizes product innovation, launching over 100 new products annually to meet diverse consumer needs, including seasonal offerings and new product lines [9] - Hu Shang A Yi has established a robust supply chain management system, with a nationwide cold chain logistics network to ensure product freshness and quality [10] International Expansion - Currently, Hu Shang A Yi's international business is in its early stages, with overseas revenue of RMB 6.33 million in 2024, accounting for only 0.2% of total revenue. The company plans to focus on increasing penetration in lower-tier cities while exploring niche markets through sub-brands [10]
十年开出近万家门店，沪上阿姨终成新式茶饮第六股