中金2026年展望 | 食品饮料：筑底接近尾声，聚焦高质量增长

Core Viewpoint - The food and beverage industry is experiencing a new normal with a weak overall consumption environment, emphasizing high quality-price ratios, functionality, health, and emotional consumption trends. The liquor industry continues to face weak demand, while snacks and beverages show better performance. The industry is expected to maintain a weak recovery with strong differentiation, relying on product innovation, fragmented channel layouts, and expanding consumer demographics [2][3][10]. Liquor Industry - The liquor industry is undergoing significant adjustments due to weak demand and new regulations, with expectations for a turning point in the first half of 2026 as the supply-demand balance improves. The impact of policies on demand is expected to weaken, leading to a gradual recovery in consumption [6][7]. - The strategic focus of liquor companies has shifted from inventory pressure to exploring new growth areas, such as targeting younger consumers and embracing new retail channels. This shift is expected to lead to a clearer upward trend in financial reports by 2026 [8][9]. - High-end liquor is anticipated to lead the overall recovery, benefiting from brand loyalty and the resumption of business activities. The mid-range segment may face challenges but is also expected to see some recovery [9]. Snack and Beverage Industry - The overall demand for snacks is stabilizing at a low level, with a focus on quality-price ratios and emotional value. The snack industry is expected to continue expanding, particularly in channels like bulk snacks and membership supermarkets [11][12]. - The beverage industry is benefiting from health trends, with a notable increase in demand for low-sugar and functional drinks. The market for instant retail is also growing, with significant sales increases in snack brands through platforms like Meituan [21][22]. - The competition in the beverage sector is expected to remain intense, but price competition is easing, allowing for improved profit margins for leading companies [22][23]. Dairy and Frozen Food Industry - The dairy industry is experiencing a recovery in operational performance, with expectations for improved profitability as raw milk prices stabilize. The demand for liquid milk is projected to stabilize in 2026, with a potential turning point in the raw milk supply-demand balance [33][34][37]. - The frozen food industry is facing pressure from weak demand but is seeing a stabilization in competition. Companies are focusing on product innovation and new channel development to improve profitability [42][43]. Condiments and Health Products - The condiment industry is expected to see stable demand in 2025, with a focus on product upgrades and innovation from leading companies. The overall competitive landscape is anticipated to become less aggressive as inventory levels normalize [44][48]. - The health product sector is experiencing a shift towards online sales and long-tail brand growth. Leading brands are expected to stabilize their market share through channel expansion and product diversification [55][56].