国泰海通｜建材：防水行业出清领先，26年盈利修复可期

Core Viewpoint - The waterproofing industry is experiencing significant consolidation, leading to a potential recovery in pricing strategies and profitability by 2026, maintaining an "overweight" rating for the industry [1]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The waterproofing industry has undergone the most severe clearing among consumer building materials, with the top four companies expected to capture nearly 50% market share by 2024 [2]. - The industry's high exposure to credit risk from accounts receivable has led to the exit of many small enterprises, while the demand decline has been more pronounced due to the high proportion of construction activity [2]. - Intense price competition in recent years has contributed to the industry's challenges, but the increasing concentration of market share among leading firms may reduce the necessity for further price competition [2]. Group 2: Pricing and Profitability - The leading companies in the waterproofing sector have begun attempts to raise prices starting in 2025, indicating a collective shift in operational strategies [3]. - Although the impact of price increases on gross margins was not immediately evident in the third-quarter reports of 2025, there is a clear intent among leading firms to improve profitability [3]. - The low asphalt prices at the beginning of 2025 provide a favorable foundation for profitability recovery in 2026, with a focus on stable pricing strategies to enhance gross margins [3]. Group 3: Operational Improvements - The easing of competition is expected to positively affect sales expenses, employee numbers, and accounts receivable turnover for major companies in the industry [3]. - The primary companies are diversifying their business expansion beyond traditional domestic waterproofing projects, which may further enhance operational efficiency and financial performance [3].