Bestore(SH:603719) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-17 12:59Core Viewpoint - The ongoing control dispute over the snack brand Liangpin Puzi has intensified, with the controlling shareholder, Ningbo Hanyi, facing a lawsuit from Guangzhou Light Industry, which has shifted its request from continuing the agreement to immediate termination and compensation of 20.7386 million yuan [2][18]. Group 1: Timeline of Events - The dispute originated when Ningbo Hanyi sought to sell shares to alleviate its debts, leading to a partnership with Guangzhou Light Industry in May, which was formalized in an agreement [4][20]. - Guangzhou Light Industry was granted a priority purchase right until May 28, but Ningbo Hanyi failed to sign the contract, prompting Guangzhou to file a lawsuit on July 14 [4][20]. - On July 17, Ningbo Hanyi signed a share transfer agreement with Changjiang International Trade Group to transfer 21% of the company for approximately 1.046 billion yuan, making Changjiang the new controlling shareholder [5][21]. Group 2: Legal and Financial Implications - The lawsuit from Guangzhou Light Industry led to the freezing of shares held by Ningbo Hanyi, preventing the share transfer to Changjiang from proceeding [6][22]. - On October 16, Liangpin Puzi announced the termination of the share transfer agreement due to unmet conditions by the deadline of October 15 [6][22]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Market Position - Liangpin Puzi reported a revenue of 4.14 billion yuan for the first three quarters of 2025, a year-on-year decline of 24.45%, with a net profit of -122 million yuan, a staggering drop of 730.83% [8][24]. - The company initiated a significant price reduction campaign in late 2023, with an average price cut of 22% across 300 products, but this strategy has not effectively improved profitability [10][26]. - As of September 30, the total number of stores decreased to 2,227, down from a peak of 3,293, reflecting a net reduction of 1,066 stores [11][27]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Strategic Recommendations - The brand, once hailed as the "first high-end snack stock," has seen its market value plummet over 80%, with shares trading at 11.83 yuan, down from a peak of over 80 yuan [13][29]. - To regain market position, the company is advised to refocus on its core strengths, enhance product quality, and cater to the health-conscious preferences of the Z generation [14][29]. - Strengthening brand trust and quality control is crucial for the company's recovery, as it navigates through its current challenges [15][31].