Anker Innovations(SZ:300866) 36氪·2025-07-07 14:03Core Viewpoint - The mobile power bank industry is facing a significant crisis due to a series of product recalls and operational challenges, primarily stemming from safety issues related to battery cells, which have led to widespread operational disruptions among major manufacturers [4][10][20]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The mobile power bank market has become extremely competitive, characterized by low margins and high pressure on manufacturers to innovate while maintaining cost efficiency [5][21]. - The market is projected to grow from $13.59 billion in 2024 to $20.35 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.40% [23]. - The industry has shifted from a focus on capacity to a more comprehensive competition involving fast charging, design, and pricing, as growth rates have slowed [24][25]. Group 2: Recent Events - The crisis was triggered by a recall of 490,000 units by Romoss and 713,000 units by Anker due to safety concerns related to defective battery cells [4][10]. - Romoss announced a temporary halt in production for six months starting July 7, 2025, due to operational challenges exacerbated by the recall [4]. - Anker's vice president expressed anxiety and urgency within the organization as they navigate the fallout from the recalls [4]. Group 3: Supply Chain Issues - The recalls were linked to a specific battery cell supplier, Amperex Technology Limited (ATL), which reportedly made unauthorized changes to raw materials, leading to safety hazards [10][11][14]. - Amperex is a leading supplier in the soft-pack battery sector, producing over 100 million lithium batteries in 2023, with major clients including Romoss and Anker [13]. - The complexity of battery safety production and testing poses significant challenges, with many potential points of failure in the supply chain [17][19]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The industry is marked by intense competition, with many companies racing to enhance performance and features, often at the expense of safety and reliability [28]. - The price of power banks has significantly decreased, with Romoss's 20,000mAh fast-charging model dropping from a price range of 129-149 yuan in 2021 to 69 yuan by the end of 2024 [26]. - Companies like Anker and Ugreen are investing in research and development to differentiate themselves in a saturated market, with R&D expense ratios of 8.5% and 4.9%, respectively [29].