CKH HOLDINGS(HK:00001) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-07-07 12:01Core Viewpoint - Watsons is facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, with a decline in store numbers and revenue, necessitating strategic changes to improve performance and adapt to market conditions [2][9]. Group 1: Management Changes - Chen Zhihao, one of the co-managing directors of Watsons China, will retire in early 2025 after only one year in the role, highlighting the rapid turnover in leadership [1]. - Chen and Nie Wei were appointed to focus on responding quickly to the Chinese market to drive performance growth during a period of declining sales [2]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Watsons' store count in China fell below 4,000, with a reported revenue decline of 18% to HKD 13.5 billion in 2024, and same-store sales decreased by 15.3% [2]. - The company is the only region experiencing a revenue decline, indicating structural issues that need urgent attention [2]. Group 3: Strategic Direction - The O+O (online and offline) strategy remains a key focus, with plans to expand store locations to community areas within a 15-minute reach in first and second-tier cities, while also accelerating expansion in lower-tier cities [4]. - Watsons aims to enhance delivery efficiency and store productivity, introducing new brands and exclusive products to differentiate its offerings [4]. Group 4: Market Trends - The number of stores in shopping centers has decreased by 5.2%, while street and residential area stores have seen significant growth of 107.9% and 84.6%, respectively, although these account for less than 5% of total stores [5]. - The shift towards smaller stores in lower-tier cities is seen as a way to reduce costs and avoid competition in saturated markets [6]. Group 5: Customer Experience and Challenges - The integration of online and offline channels is crucial for Watsons, as online discounts may undermine the advantages of physical stores [8]. - Customer experience varies significantly based on staff performance, and there are concerns about the reduction in product selection and store traffic [9].