NONGFU SPRING(HK:09633) Qin Ce Xiao Fei Yan Jiu·2025-10-31 05:22Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive investment outlook for the sugar-free tea industry, highlighting its potential for growth and market opportunities. Core Insights - The sugar-free tea market in China is experiencing a transition from rapid growth to structural optimization and brand differentiation, driven by health consumption trends and increasing consumer awareness of sugar intake [1][4][11]. Summary by Sections Industry Investment Rating - The sugar-free tea sector is rated positively due to its significant market potential and alignment with health trends [1]. Current Industry Status - The market for sugar-free tea is expanding, with a notable increase in market share from 16% to 32% between 2022 and 2023, reflecting a growing consumer preference for healthier beverage options [51]. - The overall market size for sugar-free beverages is projected to grow from 22.6 billion yuan in 2015 to 570.5 billion yuan by 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 43.2% [14][11]. Competitive Landscape - The competitive landscape is dominated by a few key players, with Farmer Spring's "Oriental Leaf" leading the market with a 75% share, followed by Suntory and Master Kong [68][66]. - The market is characterized by a "one strong, many strong" competition model, where major brands are vying for market share through innovation and targeted marketing strategies [68]. Product Definition and Classification - Sugar-free tea is defined as ready-to-drink tea with sugar content not exceeding 0.5 grams per 100 grams or milliliters, and it includes various types such as green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and others [9][10]. Market Growth and Trends - The sugar-free tea market has seen explosive growth, particularly in 2023, but is projected to face challenges in 2025 with the first anticipated decline in sales [15][18]. - The market is shifting towards premiumization, with consumers showing a willingness to pay higher prices for quality products, as evidenced by the rising average prices of popular tea types [24][21]. Consumer Demographics and Preferences - Young consumers under 30 years old represent 70.8% of the sugar-free tea market, driven by health consciousness and lifestyle trends [30][31]. - The primary motivations for purchasing sugar-free tea include health benefits, convenience, and taste, with a strong emphasis on the absence of sugar and low-calorie content [33][34]. Sales Channels - The sales distribution is predominantly offline, with 81.5% of purchases occurring in physical stores, particularly convenience stores, while online sales are rapidly growing [29][27]. - The report highlights the importance of multi-channel strategies for brands to maintain market presence and consumer engagement [29]. Technological and Policy Support - Advances in technology, such as low-temperature extraction and cold filling, have improved the taste and shelf life of sugar-free tea products, enhancing consumer acceptance [39][40]. - Government policies promoting low-sugar and sugar-free products are creating a favorable environment for the growth of the sugar-free tea industry [40][41].