Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid growth and market positioning of Laopu Gold, highlighting its unique business model that combines luxury branding with traditional craftsmanship, leading to significant sales increases and a strong customer base [4][6]. Group 1: Company Performance - Laopu Gold's revenue has grown from 453 million RMB in 2017 to 8.506 billion RMB in 2024, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 50% [8][12]. - The company's net profit increased from 32 million RMB in 2017 to 1.473 billion RMB in 2024, with a CAGR exceeding 70% [12]. - The gross profit margin has remained stable between 41% and 42% since 2019, supported by a shift in product mix towards higher-margin items [10][12]. Group 2: Growth Drivers - Revenue growth is driven by an increase in store count, average sales per store, and product pricing [15][20]. - From 2017 to 2021, revenue grew by 179%, primarily due to an increase in store count from 8 to 22 [17]. - From 2021 to 2023, revenue growth was fueled by a 53% increase in average sales per store, alongside a stable increase in product pricing [19]. Group 3: Market Positioning - Laopu Gold's unique pricing strategy emphasizes a single price model, enhancing its luxury appeal and targeting high-net-worth individuals [23][24]. - The brand's positioning in high-end shopping areas aligns it with other luxury brands, attracting a similar customer demographic [27][29]. - The company has successfully capitalized on the "Veblen effect," where higher prices increase demand due to perceived value [24]. Group 4: Customer Base - The customer base primarily consists of affluent individuals aged 25-55, with a strong focus on quality and design [29][30]. - Laopu Gold has seen a rapid increase in loyal customers, with new member counts rising from approximately 28,800 in 2022 to 147,400 in 2024 [26][46]. - The brand is attracting customers from traditional luxury jewelry brands, benefiting from a shift in consumer preferences towards investment-grade products [31][32]. Group 5: Future Growth Potential - Laopu Gold has significant expansion potential, with plans to increase its store count from 36 to 45 by 2025, and potentially up to 136 in the long term [35][39]. - The average sales per store are projected to increase significantly, with estimates suggesting a rise to 5 billion RMB by 2026 [40][43]. - The company aims to maintain a high growth trajectory, with projected revenues of approximately 177.93 billion RMB by 2025, reflecting an 81.65% year-on-year increase [43][45].

Investment Rating - The report initiates coverage with a "Buy" rating for the company [6]. Core Views - The company is positioned to benefit from the upward cycle of the beef market, with expectations of profit recovery and growth driven by its strong brand and integrated meat industry chain [4][71]. - The company has a long history and has developed a comprehensive meat industry chain, enhancing its competitive edge [10][11]. Summary by Sections 1. Company Overview - The company, established in 1930, has evolved from a small workshop to a comprehensive meat industry player, focusing on high-quality products and brand development [10]. - It operates a full industry chain including feed production, breeding, slaughtering, and meat processing, which forms its core competitive advantage [11]. 2. Beef Market Cycle - The beef market is expected to experience a cyclical upturn, influenced by both domestic and international supply factors [30]. - The report highlights the low concentration in China's beef market, suggesting potential for significant price elasticity and recovery following capacity adjustments [49][51]. - Major beef-producing countries are anticipated to see price improvements that will positively impact the domestic market [56]. 3. Business Segments - The company controls New Zealand's largest beef slaughtering enterprise, Silver Fern Farms, which enhances its global trade capabilities [73]. - The brand "Guanshengyuan" is a key asset, with a strong market presence in various food categories, contributing to the company's long-term performance stability [2]. - The company is a major player in the pig farming sector, ensuring stable supply and collaboration across the entire meat production chain [2][3]. 4. Financial Forecast and Investment Recommendations - Projected net profits for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are estimated at 431 million, 680 million, and 769 million yuan respectively, with corresponding EPS of 0.46, 0.73, and 0.82 yuan [5]. - The company is expected to benefit from the beef cycle's upward trend, leveraging its core competencies in the meat industry [4][71].