Core Viewpoint - 361 Degrees has demonstrated strong financial performance in the first half of 2025, achieving revenue of 5.705 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 11%, and a net profit of 858 million yuan, up 8.6%, while also enhancing shareholder returns with a dividend payout ratio of 45% [1][2]. Group 1: Financial Performance - 361 Degrees reported a revenue of 5.705 billion yuan for the first half of 2025, marking an 11% increase year-on-year [1]. - The net profit for the same period reached 858 million yuan, reflecting an 8.6% growth compared to the previous year [1]. - The company declared an interim dividend of 20.4 Hong Kong cents, with a payout ratio of 45% [1]. Group 2: Market Position and Competitive Advantage - In a challenging market environment, 361 Degrees stands out with a double-digit growth rate, while other major brands like Nike reported a 21% decline in sales in China [1][2]. - The company has successfully entered the first tier of Chinese sports brands, with revenue expected to exceed 10 billion yuan in 2024, enhancing its growth potential [1][2]. Group 3: Product Development and Innovation - 361 Degrees has launched over 230 new technology products in the first half of 2025, focusing on high quality-to-price ratio and a diverse product matrix [6][10]. - The company has introduced several innovative products across various sports categories, including running, basketball, cycling, and badminton, enhancing consumer experience [6][8]. Group 4: Brand Engagement and Emotional Connection - 361 Degrees has focused on building emotional resonance with consumers, enhancing brand loyalty through participation in major sports events and community engagement [11][12]. - The brand has established a strong presence in professional sports, sponsoring events and athletes, which has helped to strengthen its market recognition and consumer trust [16][19]. Group 5: Business Expansion and Globalization - The company is expanding its retail footprint with the introduction of "super premium" stores, aiming to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency [10][20]. - 361 Degrees has achieved significant growth in cross-border e-commerce, with a 94% year-on-year increase in sales, and has opened its first overseas store in Kuala Lumpur, marking a key step in its Southeast Asia expansion [24][25].

Industry Background - The liquor industry is facing dual pressures from economic and policy factors, leading to an accelerated bottoming out of the sector [2] - Revenue growth for the sector is expected to significantly decline to around 1% starting from the second half of 2024, with most companies failing to meet their 2024 operational targets, except for leading firms like Kweichow Moutai and Shui Jing Fang [2] Supply Side - Major liquor companies such as Wuliangye, Luzhou Laojiao, Shanxi Fenjiu, and Yanghe have initiated inventory control policies, marking the beginning of a "control inventory wave" [3] - This proactive supply-side adjustment is anticipated to alleviate channel inventory pressure and help rebalance supply and demand, potentially stabilizing prices in the short term [3] Demand Side - Companies are innovating to tap into new demand and optimize demand structure by launching products that align with changing consumer preferences [4] - There is a noticeable shift from "cost-performance ratio" to "quality-price ratio" in consumer preferences, prompting leading brands to introduce new products that emphasize quality [4] - The trend towards lower alcohol content products is gaining traction, especially among younger consumers, with significant interest in low-alcohol offerings [4] - Companies are also focusing on mid-range products to cater to evolving consumer needs and market dynamics [4] Channel Strategy - Liquor companies are building platforms to strengthen partnerships with distributors and embrace new channels to balance online and offline sales [5] - The establishment of cooperative platforms among manufacturers is aimed at resolving conflicts and creating a healthier ecosystem [5] - Companies are increasingly focusing on online channel management, with initiatives to recruit operators for online platforms and activate new retail channels [5] Marketing Strategy - Companies are adjusting their marketing strategies by reducing the reliance on "red envelope" promotions and focusing on cultivating new consumption scenarios and demographics [6] - There is a shift towards targeted marketing efforts to optimize customer structures and create new consumption experiences [6] - The current low valuation, low expectations, and low holdings in the sector make strong brand leaders attractive for dividend returns [6]