茶百道(02555.HK):运营提质增效 26年有望持续改善

Company Dynamics - The company is currently undergoing a deep adjustment period from 2024 to 2025, with initial positive results expected to improve further in 2026 [1] - In the second half of 2025, the company is actively restructuring its R&D organization and new product launch mechanisms, shifting from a traditional structure to an integrated product research center focused on data analysis and consumer insights [1] - The new market-driven product decision-making mechanism is expected to better meet consumer needs, as demonstrated by the recent launch of solid mango sago, leading to a double-digit growth in same-store sales in November [1] Sales Channel Exploration - The company plans to enhance store operating quality by exploring multiple sales channels, with a focus on the coffee category in 2026, utilizing fresh milk and fruits to boost morning sales [2] - Currently, 200 stores have coffee machines installed, averaging over 30 cups sold daily without promotion, with plans to add coffee machines to an additional 1,500 to 2,000 stores next year [2] - The company aims to expand its price range downward to meet the demand for water priced between 6-10 yuan in lower-tier markets, with a target of 11-15% growth in 3-4 tier cities and 6-10% in cities below the 4th tier in 2026 [2] Profitability and Forecast - The company is restructuring its membership pricing system to guide consumers towards online orders while tightening online activities and increasing offline promotions to encourage in-store visits [2] - Due to previous negative media impact, franchisee gross margins were affected, leading to lower net profit margins; however, the company plans to recover franchisee subsidies and improve profitability through standardization and automation [2] - The company expects to achieve a dividend payout ratio of 60-80% over the next three years, corresponding to a current dividend yield of 5.4-7.2%, highlighting its investment value [2] Earnings Forecast and Valuation - The company maintains net profit forecasts of 870 million yuan for 2025 and 1.06 billion yuan for 2026, currently trading at 11x and 9x P/E for 2025 and 2026 respectively [2] - Considering the sector's valuation decline, the target price has been reduced by 23% to 9.3 HKD, reflecting a 14x and 12x P/E for 2025 and 2026, with a potential upside of 31% [2] - The company maintains an outperform rating in the industry despite the competitive landscape and challenges in store expansion and single-store efficiency [2]