Core Insights - The investment of 490 million yuan by Guoquan Food in Danzhou, Hainan, aims to enhance its food production capabilities and strengthen its supply chain, market expansion, and internationalization strategies [1][7] - The prepared food market has surpassed 500 billion yuan, while the hot pot ingredient market has exceeded 1 trillion yuan, indicating a highly competitive landscape where supply chain efficiency is crucial for gaining market advantage [1][2] Supply Chain Strategy - Guoquan's investment is part of a broader strategy to vertically integrate its supply chain, having already established six production bases across China with a "single product, single factory" approach [2] - The new Hainan base will reduce logistics costs in southern regions and enhance the company's ability to serve Southeast Asia, leveraging Hainan's free trade port advantages [2][3] Market Expansion Goals - Guoquan aims to open an additional 10,000 stores over the next five years, targeting a total of over 20,000 stores, capitalizing on its extensive C-end sales network [4][7] - The company has a significant presence in rural markets, where demand for prepared foods is growing due to rising income levels and changing consumer preferences [5] Competitive Landscape - The prepared food industry is facing challenges from rising raw material costs, with imported beef prices projected to increase significantly by 2025 [6] - Guoquan's establishment of the Hainan base is a strategic move to mitigate these cost pressures through local sourcing and tax advantages [6][7] Long-term Strategic Positioning - The investment is seen as a long-term strategic positioning for Guoquan, aiming to transition from a hot pot ingredient supplier to a global prepared food provider [7] - The company's focus on supply chain control is critical for maintaining competitive advantages in a market characterized by intense competition [6][7]