库迪回应“禁带竞品入座”风波，门店激进行为折射增长压力

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Kudi Coffee's recent signage reflects the intense competition in the coffee market and highlights the challenges the company faces amid its aggressive expansion strategy [5][6]. Group 1: Company Actions and Responses - A photo of a sign at Kudi Coffee's store, which prohibited customers from bringing in a competitor's coffee, sparked significant public discussion [2]. - Kudi Coffee's official response clarified that the company did not issue any such directive and would investigate the matter, labeling it as an isolated incident by a specific store [5]. Group 2: Market Position and Strategy - Since its establishment in 2022 by Lu Zhengyao, Kudi Coffee has rapidly expanded in the Chinese coffee market, aiming to open 50,000 stores by the end of 2025 through aggressive pricing and franchise policies [5][6]. - The company has adopted a "store-in-store" model to lower investment thresholds for franchisees, allowing them to set up mini-counters in various locations, which has led to issues with brand image and quality control [6]. Group 3: Financial and Operational Challenges - Kudi Coffee faces significant financial pressure as the cost of producing a cup of coffee approaches or exceeds its selling price, relying on subsidies from both headquarters and franchisees [6]. - As of November 2025, Kudi Coffee's total store count is approximately 15,000, falling short of its ambitious target of 50,000 stores [6]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Competitors like Luckin Coffee have nearly 30,000 stores and are achieving stable profitability, while other brands are also intensifying their presence in the market, eroding Kudi's initial price advantage [6]. - The recent controversy over the sign reflects the desperation of some stores to maintain customer traffic and sales amid fierce competition [6]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Kudi Coffee's future success may depend on its ability to shift from a rapid growth strategy to a more stable approach, focusing on supply chain management, franchisee support, product differentiation, and brand value [7].