Core Viewpoint - The Chinese cosmetics industry is shifting from a traffic-driven model to a value-driven approach, influenced by regulatory improvements, increased consumer rationality, and the diminishing channel dividends [2][4][6]. Industry Overview - The retail sales of cosmetics in China grew only 2.9% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, with a rare decline in June [5][6]. - The industry is experiencing a transition from "bubble growth" to "rational prosperity," changing the criteria for evaluating competitiveness [6][7]. Company Performance - Yunnan Betaini Biotechnology Group Co., Ltd. (贝泰妮) reported a revenue of 2.372 billion yuan and a net profit of 247 million yuan for the first half of 2025 [2][5]. - The company's gross profit margin improved to 76.01%, and its operating cash flow increased by 145.7% year-on-year to 347 million yuan [5][6]. Strategic Adjustments - Betaini is focusing on high-margin products and core categories while reducing ineffective marketing and clearing long-tail inventory [5][9]. - The company is investing in R&D, with a research expense ratio of 4.91%, which is above the industry average [8][9]. R&D and Innovation - Betaini has established an integrated R&D system covering basic research, raw material development, formula innovation, and clinical evaluation [8]. - The company has completed 16 self-registered raw materials, leveraging unique plant resources from Yunnan [8][9]. Brand and Market Strategy - Betaini's multi-brand strategy includes the main brand Winona, which focuses on sensitive skin, and other brands targeting various market segments [10]. - The company is transitioning from "scale expansion" to "efficient operation" in its channel strategy, enhancing online and offline integration [11][12]. Global Expansion and ESG Commitment - Betaini is advancing its international strategy, entering markets in Southeast Asia and utilizing local social media for brand promotion [13]. - The company integrates ESG principles into its core operations, achieving high ratings in ESG assessments [14]. Conclusion - Betaini's strategic transformation emphasizes R&D, brand diversification, and global market penetration, positioning it as a leader in the evolving cosmetics industry [14].

Core Insights - The Chinese cosmetics industry is shifting from a traffic-driven model to a value-driven approach, influenced by regulatory improvements, increased consumer rationality, and diminishing channel benefits [1][3][4] - Yunnan Betaini Biotechnology Group Co., Ltd. (Beitaini) reported a revenue of 2.372 billion yuan and a net profit of 247 million yuan for the first half of 2025, showcasing its strategic adjustments during industry transformation [1][3] Industry Trends - The cosmetics industry is facing a slowdown, with retail sales growth of only 2.9% in the first half of 2025, and a rare decline in June [3][4] - The focus has shifted from GMV and market share to profitability, cash flow stability, R&D sustainability, and long-term brand value [4] Company Performance - Beitaini has avoided price wars and instead focused on high-margin products, resulting in an overall gross margin increase to 76.01% [3] - The company's operating cash flow increased significantly by 145.7% year-on-year to 347 million yuan, indicating effective working capital management [3] R&D and Innovation - Beitaini is committed to R&D, with a research expense ratio of 4.91%, which is above the industry average, and has established a comprehensive R&D system [4][7] - The company has extended its R&D efforts into upstream core raw materials, completing 16 self-registered raw materials, and has built a collaborative R&D network in China, France, and Japan [7] Brand and Market Strategy - Beitaini's multi-brand strategy allows it to cover various consumer demographics and market segments, with significant revenue growth in its core brands [9] - The company is transitioning from a "product company" to a "technology solution company," enhancing its competitive edge through R&D and participation in industry standards [7][9] Channel Strategy - Beitaini is shifting from scale expansion to operational efficiency, optimizing online and offline channels to improve conversion rates and user engagement [14] - The company is implementing a "BA contentization" strategy to transform beauty consultants into content creators, enhancing brand-user relationships [14] Global Expansion and ESG - Beitaini is advancing its international strategy, entering markets in Southeast Asia and leveraging local social media for brand promotion [15] - The company integrates ESG principles into its operations, achieving high ESG ratings and focusing on sustainable practices across environmental, social, and governance dimensions [17]