Yanghe(SZ:002304) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-08-22 08:26Core Viewpoint - Yanghe, a leading player in the Chinese liquor industry, is facing unprecedented challenges, including declining revenue and profit, as well as increased competition in a slowing market [4][10][19]. Company Performance - In 2024, Yanghe reported its worst performance since going public, with revenue of 28.876 billion yuan, a year-on-year decline of 12.83%, and net profit of 6.673 billion yuan, down 33.37%, returning to levels seen seven years ago [4][10]. - The company has been using the term "active deceleration" to explain its declining performance, which has become a common phrase in recent years [4][5]. Market Position - Yanghe was once a top player in the liquor industry, ranking among the top three alongside Moutai and Wuliangye since 2010, but has now fallen to fifth place after being surpassed by Shanxi Fenjiu and Luzhou Laojiao [5][8]. - The company’s mid-to-high-end products, including the "Dream Blue" series, have been particularly affected, with revenue from these products declining by 14.79% in 2024, contributing significantly to the overall revenue drop [13][14]. Inventory and Operational Challenges - Yanghe's inventory turnover days have reached nearly 900 days, indicating severe inventory issues, which have doubled compared to the previous year [11]. - The high inventory levels have led to increased costs for distributors and forced the company to reduce production capacity, further impacting profitability [11][19]. Competitive Landscape - Yanghe is facing significant competition from local rival Jinshiyuan, which has been gaining market share in Jiangsu, Yanghe's home province. Jinshiyuan's revenue grew by 13.32% in 2024, while Yanghe's provincial revenue declined by 11.43% [17][18]. - The overall liquor market is experiencing intensified competition, particularly in the light bottle liquor segment, where numerous brands are vying for consumer attention [22]. Strategic Response - In response to its challenges, Yanghe has launched new products aimed at the mass market, including the seventh generation of "Sea Blue" and a cost-effective "Mingjiu" line [20][21]. - The company aims to balance its brand renewal, high-end market breakthroughs, and mass market positioning to regain its competitive edge and reverse its declining trend [24].