NHD(SZ:002946) 3 6 Ke·2025-06-12 06:33Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustments in the franchise policy of Mixue Ice City aim to optimize store layout, slow down the overall expansion pace, and focus on special channel store development in response to increasing market competition and declining store performance [1][3][11]. Summary by Relevant Sections Franchise Policy Adjustments - Starting from June 11, 2025, Mixue Ice City will implement changes to its franchise policy, including optimizing store layout, adjusting protection ranges, and encouraging franchisees to return to frontline operations [1]. - Existing franchisees with strong performance will receive more opportunities for new store applications, while new franchisees will be restricted from opening stores in blank towns unless they have local residency [1][11]. Market Conditions and Performance Metrics - The industry is entering a phase of stock competition, with a significant slowdown in store growth. In 2024, the total number of brand stores decreased by 16,000, with a growth rate dropping from 32.5% to 11.12% [3]. - As of December 2024, Mixue Ice City had over 41,000 stores, with daily average GMV per store declining from 4,144 yuan in 2021 to 4,127 yuan in 2023, and gross margin for franchise stores decreasing from 32.03% to 30.10% during the same period [3][11]. Strategic Focus Areas - Mixue Ice City is focusing on three main areas to enhance store revenue: encouraging franchisees to return to frontline operations, promoting the establishment of special channel stores, and imposing stricter requirements for new store franchises in blank towns [4][7][11]. - The company has previously implemented a policy requiring franchisees to complete a minimum of 90 hours of in-store presence each month to ensure better service quality [4][5]. Special Channel Development - The emphasis on special channel stores is a response to the competitive landscape, with other brands also focusing on high-traffic areas such as hospitals and schools [7][11]. - The operational challenges of these special channel locations are acknowledged, but they offer higher customer flow stability and profitability once established [11]. Local Market Strategy - The requirement for franchisees to have local residency and manage stores personally in blank towns is aimed at ensuring that operators understand local consumer habits and are committed to long-term operations [11]. - This strategy is designed to improve the survival rate of new stores in low-traffic, high-difficulty markets [11].