Core Viewpoint - Goldman Sachs has issued a "Buy" rating for Weidong Meishi (09985) with a 12-month target price of HKD 13.9, based on a 19x expected P/E ratio for 2027 and an 8.6% cost of equity discounted back to 2026 [1] Group 1: Company Growth Potential - Despite fierce competition in the snack industry, the company is expected to achieve growth due to its first-mover advantage, national coverage, and resources to adapt to increasing competition [1] - Smaller competitors are likely to be more affected by rising costs and price pressures due to their scale disadvantages [1] - The company's strong brand image and insights into konjac products and the market provide potential for multiple enhancements in consumer penetration, channel expansion, SKU, and flavor variety [1] Group 2: Financial Guidance - The company reaffirms its annual guidance with a sales growth of 15-20% year-on-year, a gross margin of 46-48%, and a net profit margin of 17-20% [1] - The company anticipates higher sales, general, and administrative expense ratios in the second half of the year due to increased online and offline marketing activities aimed at supporting konjac and kelp product categories [1] - The long-term goals include maintaining a gross margin above 45% and a net profit margin exceeding 15% [1] Group 3: Sales Trends and Channel Insights - In Q3 2025, despite a high base, the company's performance remains robust, with monthly sales of the konjac sesame product reaching RMB 60-70 million in August and September [2] - Discount stores are the fastest-growing channel, expected to contribute 25-30% of annual sales, with a long-term target of 30-35% [2] - Traditional distributors are the most profitable channel, followed by discount stores, KA channels, and e-commerce [2] Group 4: Raw Material Cost Outlook - Supply-demand imbalance has kept konjac powder prices high, but the company is optimistic that prices will normalize in 2026-2027 as planting areas expand [2] Group 5: International Expansion - The management has reiterated a sales target of approximately RMB 100 million for the year and is actively seeking partners in other Southeast Asian countries [3] - Progress has been made in getting konjac and kelp products listed in major Southeast Asian retailers such as 7-11 and Lotus's [3]
高盛：予卫龙美味“买入”评级 目标价13.9港元