Core Viewpoint - The infant food market in China is experiencing steady growth, driven by the increasing awareness of health and nutrition among new parents, with companies like Ying's and Grandpa's Farm competing for market share [2][4]. Industry Overview - The Chinese infant food market is projected to grow from approximately RMB 31.7 billion in 2020 to about RMB 39.4 billion by 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.6%, and expected to reach approximately RMB 51.2 billion by 2029 [2]. - The market is characterized by competition among brands such as Ying's, Grandpa's Farm, Little Blue, and Qiu Tian Man Man [2]. Company Performance - In 2024, Ying's is expected to achieve revenue of RMB 1.97 billion, while Grandpa's Farm is projected to generate RMB 875 million in the same year [4]. - Grandpa's Farm reported revenues of RMB 622 million in 2023, RMB 875 million in 2024, and RMB 780 million in the first three quarters of 2025, with adjusted net profits of RMB 76 million, RMB 103 million, and RMB 90 million respectively [4]. Market Positioning - According to the 2024 rankings, Ying's holds the top position in the infant food market with a market share of 5.7%, while Grandpa's Farm ranks second with a market share of 3.3% [3]. - The top five companies in the market collectively account for 14.2% of the total market share [3]. Marketing and R&D Expenditure - Grandpa's Farm has invested significantly in marketing, with sales and distribution expenses amounting to RMB 201 million, RMB 306 million, and RMB 283 million for 2023, 2024, and the first three quarters of 2025, respectively, representing 32.3%, 35.0%, and 36.3% of total revenue [5]. - In contrast, Ying's has maintained a sales expense ratio of around 35%, with R&D expenses accounting for less than 1% of revenue [7]. Production and Quality Concerns - Grandpa's Farm relies heavily on third-party OEM manufacturers for production, with its own factory expected to start small-scale production in October 2025 [8]. - Ying's has a stronger in-house production capability, although it still relies on outsourcing for 55.1% of its production in 2024 [8]. Consumer Feedback - As of January 6, there have been 206 complaints regarding Grandpa's Farm on the Black Cat Complaints platform, highlighting issues such as product quality and safety [9]. - Both leading companies face challenges related to high marketing costs and reliance on outsourcing, which may impact their profitability and growth potential [9].