HAIDILAO(HK:06862) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-12-02 09:56Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by Tehai International, the overseas arm of Haidilao, in its international expansion and profitability, highlighting the difficulties of adapting Chinese cuisine to foreign markets and the impact of operational strategies on financial performance [1][3][10]. Group 1: Financial Performance - Tehai International experienced significant losses from 2019 to 2022, totaling over $2 billion, with annual losses of $0.33 billion, $0.53 billion, $1.5 billion, and $0.41 billion respectively [3][4]. - In 2023, the company managed to turn a profit, but by the first half of 2024, it reported a net loss of $0.46 million [3][4]. - The third quarter of 2025 saw revenues of $214 million, a 7.8% year-on-year increase, but operating profit decreased by 15.4% [6][7]. Group 2: Operational Strategies - The company adopted a "price for volume" strategy, leading to a 5.1% increase in restaurant revenue, contributing $201 million in the third quarter [8]. - Customer traffic increased by 9.5% in the third quarter, with an average customer spend of $24.6, down from $25.8 the previous year [8][9]. - Tehai International has shifted from aggressive expansion to a more cautious approach, opening only 10 new restaurants in 2025 while closing one in Singapore and adjusting another in Thailand [9][15]. Group 3: Localization Challenges - The company faces significant challenges in localizing its offerings for international markets, as the hot pot dining experience is unfamiliar to many consumers outside of China [10][13]. - Tehai International has begun to innovate by incorporating local flavors and dining styles, such as introducing sukiyaki in Japan and optimizing single dining experiences in Western markets [13][14]. Group 4: Supply Chain and Future Plans - The company is focusing on optimizing its supply chain to reduce costs, with a strategy that includes local sourcing of fresh ingredients and centralized processing of specialty items from China [14]. - Under the leadership of CEO Yang Lijuan, Tehai International has initiated the "Red Pomegranate Plan" to diversify its offerings beyond hot pot, exploring new restaurant concepts like barbecue and fast food [15].