被金价牵着走的老铺黄金，还远远不是一个奢侈品牌

Core Viewpoint - The recent opening of Laopu Gold's new store in Shanghai has led to a significant increase in consumer interest, but the company's pricing strategy, which involves raising prices while gold prices are falling, has sparked consumer skepticism about its value proposition [1][2][7]. Pricing Strategy - Laopu Gold has implemented a fixed pricing strategy typical of luxury jewelry brands, with prices determined by raw material costs, craftsmanship, and R&D expenses, rather than fluctuating with real-time gold prices [6][8]. - The company has raised prices three times in 2025, with the latest increase of 18% to 25% being the largest of the year, coinciding with a significant drop in gold prices [1][7]. Consumer Behavior - Consumers continue to base their purchasing decisions on the fluctuations in gold prices, comparing Laopu Gold's prices with those of competitors like Chow Tai Fook and Chow Sang Sang [2][7]. - The perception of Laopu Gold's products is heavily influenced by the current gold market, leading to concerns about the brand's ability to maintain value [1][2]. Profitability and Margins - Laopu Gold's gross margin is higher than that of its competitors, with a reported margin of over 41% at the end of 2024, but it has seen a decline to 38% in the first half of 2025 due to misalignment with gold price increases [7][8]. - The company's profitability remains highly dependent on gold prices, with cumulative price increases for Laopu Gold's products in 2023 nearing 50% to 60%, mirroring the rise in international gold prices [7][8]. Brand Positioning - Unlike high-end luxury brands such as Hermès and Chanel, which have a gross margin of 60% to 80% and a strong pricing power, Laopu Gold's pricing model does not allow for significant deviation from raw material costs [8][9]. - The brand lacks substantial marketing investment, which limits its ability to create a unique luxury narrative and establish a higher premium in the market [9][10]. Market Competition - Laopu Gold faces competition from both high-end brands and mid-range competitors, with brands like Shenzhen Shuibei producing imitations that dilute Laopu Gold's uniqueness [10]. - Traditional brands are also increasing their investment in ancient gold craftsmanship, further intensifying competition in the market [10].