Core Viewpoint - The recovery of the restaurant industry since the beginning of 2023 is driven by demand and paced by supply, with leading tea brands showing signs of recovery in Q1 2025, while Western fast food and casual dining are expected to stabilize in Q2 and Q3 2025 respectively [1][2]. Industry Trends - The restaurant industry is experiencing a survival of the fittest, with top brands becoming stronger. The recovery pace in the tea segment is ahead of Western fast food and casual dining by about 1 to 2 quarters [2]. - As of November 2025, the overall restaurant sector is seeing a net closure of stores, while specific segments like coffee, self-service, light meals, and regional cuisines are showing net openings [2]. - Leading brands such as Heytea, Luckin Coffee, KFC, and Haidilao are demonstrating superior net opening speeds, indicating brand resilience [2]. Performance Outlook - Most leading brands are expected to achieve same-store sales stabilization or growth starting in H2 2025, with a normalization of customer traffic anticipated [3]. - The average transaction value (ATV) for many leading brands is stabilizing or increasing, with brands like Haidilao, McDonald's, and Luckin Coffee showing year-on-year increases in ATV as of November 2025 [3]. - The restaurant sector is viewed as a valuation opportunity, with brands like Haidilao and Yum China expected to show strong recovery and shareholder returns [4]. Specific Company Insights - Haidilao is expected to see improved revenue growth in H2 2025 due to enhanced table turnover rates, with a projected dividend yield of around 5% [4]. - Yum China is accelerating its expansion, with expected system sales growth in the mid-single digits and a total shareholder return of approximately $3 billion for 2025-2026 [4]. - Special mention of Teahouse International as a unique player in the Chinese restaurant sector, with significant growth potential and improving profitability [5]. - Green Tea Group is actively expanding into second and third-tier cities, with an anticipated store opening growth rate of about 30% in H2 2025 [5]. - Dashi Co. is also expected to achieve around 25% revenue growth in H2 2025, benefiting from rapid store openings [6]. - The tea segment is highlighted as a key area for growth, with brands like Gu Ming and Mixue Group expected to continue high growth rates due to strong same-store sales and accelerated openings [6].