YILI(SH:600887) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-06-23 02:05Core Viewpoint - The dairy industry in China is facing significant challenges in 2024 due to oversupply, weak demand, and high inventory levels, leading to a continuous decline in fresh milk prices and worsening competition among companies [1][3]. Group 1: Company Performance - In 2024, major dairy brands such as Yili, Mengniu, and Guangming reported revenue declines of 8.24%, 10.09%, and 8.33% respectively, with net profits dropping by 18.94%, 97.83%, and 25.36% [1][3]. - Yili's revenue for 2024 was 1157.80 billion yuan, marking its first negative growth since its listing, with a significant drop in liquid milk revenue, which accounts for over 60% of total revenue [3][5]. - Yili's liquid milk revenue fell by 12.32% to 750.03 billion yuan, while its ice cream revenue decreased by 18.41% to 87.21 billion yuan; however, its milk powder and dairy products segment saw a 7.53% increase in revenue [3][5]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The Chinese dairy market has entered a prolonged adjustment period since 2022, with retail sales growth turning negative and ongoing weak demand [3][13]. - The supply of raw milk has outpaced demand, resulting in an imbalance that has driven down retail prices for dairy products [3][13]. - The overall consumption of liquid milk in China has been declining, with a notable 8.6% drop in 2022 [13]. Group 3: Strategic Initiatives - Yili has implemented cost-cutting measures, reducing sales and management expenses by 2.61% and 13.37% respectively, saving a total of 1.279 billion yuan [5][6]. - The company is diversifying its product offerings, with a focus on milk powder, which has shown growth, and has ventured into new markets such as high-end bottled water and pet food [8][10]. - Yili's recent product launches include sugar-free tea and functional nutrition products targeting the elderly, indicating a strategic shift to reduce reliance on traditional dairy products [10][11]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The dairy industry is at a crossroads, with companies needing to explore new growth avenues in a saturated market, as seen with Yili's efforts to expand into non-dairy segments [11][15]. - The competition in emerging markets such as pet food and health-focused products is intensifying, requiring established players like Yili to adapt quickly to maintain market leadership [15][16]. - The transformation journey for Yili and other dairy giants is expected to be challenging but essential for their survival and growth in the evolving consumer landscape [16].