Core Viewpoint - The snack retail industry is entering a new competitive phase, with companies like Wancheng Group and Mingming Hen Mang leading the market. Wancheng Group is pursuing an IPO to enhance its global strategy and expand its store network, but faces challenges in maintaining growth and profitability due to market saturation and increased competition [1][2]. Group 1: Company Expansion and Strategy - Wancheng Group officially launched its IPO application in September 2023, aiming to establish an international capital platform and enhance competitiveness through store network expansion [1]. - The company has seen significant growth in store numbers, reaching 15,365 stores by mid-2023, but the pace of new openings has slowed, with only 1,177 new stores added in the first half of 2023, less than 60% of the previous year's rate [1][6]. - Wancheng Group's revenue growth is heavily reliant on store expansion, with projections indicating a net increase of 9,470 stores in 2024, leading to an expected revenue of 32.329 billion yuan [2][5]. Group 2: Financial Performance and Challenges - Despite achieving a revenue increase of 106.89% in the first half of 2023, Wancheng Group's growth rate is the lowest in three years, indicating potential challenges ahead [6]. - The company's financial burden is expected to increase following a planned acquisition of a 49% stake in Nanjing Wanyou for 1.379 billion yuan, which will raise its debt levels significantly [7]. - Wancheng Group's reliance on subsidies to attract franchisees has led to high sales and management expenses, with net profit margins dropping to 1.87% [5][6]. Group 3: Industry Dynamics and Competition - The snack retail sector is transitioning from rapid expansion to a focus on operational efficiency and refined management, as the market approaches saturation [8]. - Competitors like Mingming Hen Mang are also expanding aggressively, with over 20,000 stores announced in September 2023, highlighting the intense competition in the sector [6][8]. - The industry is witnessing a shift towards private label products, with Wancheng Group launching its own brands to enhance differentiation and address consumer loyalty challenges [9].