Core Viewpoint - Shangmei Smart Hotel Group plans to continue its direct-operated store strategy, aiming to invest in 100 direct-operated stores nationwide by 2026, capitalizing on favorable rental conditions in the market [1] Group 1: Market Conditions - Rental levels in major commercial areas have decreased by over 50% compared to two years ago, reaching an optimal return rate for hotels [1] - From January to September 2025, the average rental price in eight key cities was 2.73 yuan per square meter per day, down 11.9% year-on-year [1] - Average office rental prices in these cities also saw declines, ranging from -21.2% to -3.2% year-on-year [1] Group 2: Company Strategies - Shangmei Smart plans to diversify its direct-operated stores across multiple brands, not limited to its existing economy hotel brand [1] - Xi'an Tourism has shifted its strategy from expanding direct-operated hotels to increasing franchise hotel development due to changing industry conditions [3] - Junting Hotel has postponed its direct-operated hotel investment and renovation projects to December 2027, citing market fluctuations and strategic alignment [3] Group 3: Industry Trends - Major hotel groups are reducing the number and proportion of direct-operated stores, with Jinjiang Hotels decreasing from 686 to 627 direct-operated stores, and Huazhu Group from 633 to 596 [4] - The trend indicates a shift towards a lighter asset model among leading hotel groups [5] - Industry experts suggest that for local limited-service hotels, franchise development is the fastest growth path, while direct-operated stores serve primarily as flagship locations to attract franchises [6] Group 4: International Comparisons - International hotel groups are increasingly adopting a franchise model, with over 78% of hotels operated under this model, compared to only 0.8% direct-operated [7] - The franchise model is seen as a core strategy for scale expansion due to its flexibility and efficiency [7] Group 5: Recommendations - Experts recommend that hotel groups adopt a more flexible operational mindset rather than sticking to rigid models, focusing on opening and effectively operating profitable stores [8]