Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's retail performance in Q2 2025 shows a slowdown in growth, with challenges in both offline and online channels, while the company is increasing marketing investments to boost brand visibility and sales potential [2][3][6]. Group 1: Sales Performance - In Q2 2025, Li Ning's overall retail revenue (excluding Li Ning YOUNG) experienced low single-digit growth year-on-year, indicating a noticeable slowdown compared to Q1 [3]. - The offline direct sales channel saw a mid-single-digit decline, while the wholesale channel achieved low single-digit growth; online channels recorded median growth but at a reduced pace compared to Q1 [3][4]. - As of June 30, 2025, the number of retail points (excluding Li Ning YOUNG) was 6,099, reflecting a net decrease of 19 points in the first half of the year [3][4]. Group 2: Inventory Management - Inventory management emerged as a positive aspect for Li Ning, with the inventory-to-sales ratio returning to a healthy level by the end of Q2 2025, despite increased promotional activities [4][5]. Group 3: Marketing Strategy - Li Ning is betting on a high-intensity marketing campaign, including a strategic partnership with the Chinese Olympic Committee and signing NBA player Yang Hanshen, to enhance brand exposure and influence [6][7]. - The partnership with the Chinese Olympic Committee is expected to provide a platform for brand image enhancement during major international events, while the collaboration with Yang Hanshen aims to drive sales through limited product launches [6][7]. Group 4: Long-term Strategy - The company is focusing on optimizing its product matrix and channel efficiency for long-term growth, with an emphasis on core categories like running and basketball, which are expected to see high single-digit growth [8]. - Li Ning is adjusting its direct sales strategy, having significantly reduced the number of direct stores in 2024, but the pace of closures has slowed in 2025, indicating a shift towards enhancing overall channel efficiency [8]. Group 5: Market Outlook - There is a divergence in market sentiment regarding Li Ning's strategy of sacrificing short-term margins for long-term growth, with some analysts maintaining a positive outlook while others adopt a cautious stance [9]. - Investors are particularly interested in whether Li Ning can leverage its marketing efforts in the second half of the year to achieve revenue recovery and if product innovations can translate into tangible sales growth [9].
直营关店、电商增速放缓,李宁的“阵痛期”还在持续