Company Overview - Jinjiang Hotels officially submitted its application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for an IPO, marking a new chapter in its journey [1][6] - Founded in 1993, the company has grown to become the second-largest hotel group globally through significant mergers and acquisitions [2] - Jinjiang is one of the earliest entrants in the domestic economy hotel chain sector, influencing the design and development of various subsequent brands [3] Industry Development - The domestic economy hotel chain market has evolved over the past 30 years, reflecting the rise and changes in terminal market demand [4] - Many brands have entered a mature phase after aggressive expansion and capital investment, either under state-owned enterprises or independently [5] Historical Context - In the early 1990s, Jinjiang provided a model for the economy hotel segment in China, addressing the demand for standardized budget accommodations [7][11] - The first economy hotel, Jinjiang Inn, was opened in 1997, establishing a benchmark for the industry with its affordable pricing and standardized services [12] Growth Phase - Jinjiang Inn's success led to the emergence of several competitors, including Home Inn and 7 Days Inn, which played significant roles in the growth of the domestic hotel chain market [13] - The rapid expansion of economy hotel brands was facilitated by a shift from self-owned to leased properties, lowering entry barriers and shortening return cycles [15][16] Capitalization and Mergers - The attractive investment returns in the economy hotel sector spurred a wave of capital investment, with brands like Home Inn and 7 Days Inn receiving substantial funding and achieving rapid growth [17][18] - Jinjiang Hotels significantly expanded its portfolio through acquisitions, including the purchase of Plateno Group and Radisson Hotel Group, positioning itself as a global leader [21] Market Trends - By 2016, the growth rate of economy hotel chains began to slow, while mid-range and upscale hotel segments experienced significant growth due to changing consumer preferences [20] - The industry has seen a trend towards consolidation and collaboration among leading brands, with strategic partnerships emerging to enhance market presence [23]