Group 1 - The incident involving a store employee kneeling to apologize to a customer at "Haoxianglai" has sparked significant social media attention, highlighting issues of customer service and employee treatment in the retail sector [1] - The parent company, Wancheng Group, emphasized the importance of employee rights and dignity, stating that they will provide psychological support and training to improve communication between employees and customers [2][3] - Wancheng Group reported having over 15,000 signed stores as of the first quarter of this year, with the "Haoxianglai" brand alone exceeding 10,000 stores, indicating a large workforce of at least 30,000 employees across its retail outlets [2] Group 2 - The company has a structured training program for employees, including onboarding for new hires and regular training for existing staff, to ensure consistent service quality across all stores [3] - The rise of incidents where employees are pressured to kneel or apologize excessively reflects broader issues in the retail and service industries, where frontline workers face high-pressure situations and emotional attacks from customers [4] - Experts suggest that companies should establish crisis management protocols and enhance training for employees to handle such situations, which would not only improve management capabilities but also reflect the company's values and sense of responsibility [4]

Core Viewpoint - The incident involving a "Good Want to Come" employee kneeling to apologize to a customer has sparked widespread controversy, highlighting the challenges faced by the rapidly expanding snack brand and its parent company, Wancheng Group [2][3][4] Company Overview - "Good Want to Come" is a newly emerging snack brand acquired by Wancheng Group in 2022, which has integrated it with other leading regional brands to revolutionize the bulk snack industry [2][6] - As of March 2025, "Good Want to Come" is expected to have over 10,000 operational stores and more than 15,000 signed stores across 29 provinces and cities in China [2][6] Financial Performance - Wancheng Group has experienced significant growth, with a projected net profit of nearly 300 million yuan in 2024, representing a year-on-year increase of over 400% [2][8] - In the first quarter of this year, the company reported a profit exceeding 200 million yuan, a staggering year-on-year growth of 33 times [2][8] - The company's stock price has doubled since the beginning of the year, with the share price reaching 164.64 yuan as of July 8 [9][10] Expansion Strategy - Wancheng Group's rapid expansion has been marked by a series of acquisitions, including "Good Want to Come" and other snack brands, positioning it as a leading player in the bulk snack market [7][8] - The company has transitioned from a storage-style direct sales model to a brand-oriented operation, leveraging a partnership model and franchise opportunities to accelerate growth [6][8] Governance and Compliance Issues - Despite its rapid growth, Wancheng Group faces challenges in governance and product quality control, as evidenced by multiple negative incidents and regulatory penalties for operational violations [5][6] - The company's asset-liability ratio has risen to a high level, reaching 72.74% as of the end of the first quarter, indicating potential financial strain compared to industry peers [11]

Core Viewpoint - The company "好想来" is facing public scrutiny due to service-related incidents, raising concerns about its rapid expansion and management capabilities [1][3][6]. Group 1: Service Issues and Public Response - A recent incident involved a cashier kneeling to apologize to a customer over a perceived queue-jumping issue, which sparked online controversy [1][3]. - This is the second service-related incident in four months, with the company responding by emphasizing the need for enhanced employee training [1][3]. - The company has faced previous allegations regarding poor service, leading to public apologies and promises to improve staff training and customer feedback mechanisms [3][4]. Group 2: Business Expansion and Franchise Model - "好想来" operates under a low-cost franchise model, attracting numerous franchisees with no initial fees and a guarantee deposit of 20,000 yuan [4]. - As of March 2025, the company has over 10,000 stores, indicating significant growth in the snack retail sector [4][8]. - However, the rapid expansion raises concerns about the quality of franchisees and the potential impact on brand image and operational efficiency [4][6]. Group 3: Financial Performance - In 2023, the company reported revenue of 92.94 billion yuan, a staggering increase of 1592.03% year-on-year, with the snack business contributing 87.59 billion yuan [6][7]. - Despite the revenue surge, the company recorded a net loss of 0.83 billion yuan, a decline of 273.72% compared to the previous year [6][7]. - The financial situation improved in 2024, with revenue reaching 323.3 billion yuan and a net profit of 2.94 billion yuan, marking a significant turnaround [7][8]. Group 4: Operational Challenges - The company’s rapid growth has led to operational challenges, including a low gross margin of 10.76%, significantly below the industry average of 20.35% [8]. - Increased operational costs were noted, with sales expenses rising by 229.8% to 14.31 billion yuan in 2024 [7][8]. - Experts suggest that the company needs to balance expansion with quality management to sustain long-term growth and profitability [8].

Core Viewpoint - The innovative model of "member points assistance + brand donation" by the snack brand "Good Idea" aims to support the nutritional needs of rural children, redefining the social value of snack brands through deep integration of business and public welfare [1][3]. Group 1: Innovative Model - "Good Idea" collaborates with Tencent Charity to create a bridge between consumers and rural children by allowing members to donate points earned from purchases, which are then converted into cash donations for nutritional meals [3]. - The first phase of the "Love Meal Assistance" program sets a limit of 350 points per person, with users voluntarily choosing the amount of points to contribute, demonstrating respect for consumer choice in the charitable process [3]. Group 2: Market Impact - The introduction of the "points assistance" project has not only enhanced the brand's reputation in public welfare but also significantly increased member loyalty and strong alignment with the brand's values [3]. - While competitors focus on price competition, "Good Idea" emphasizes social responsibility, thereby extending its influence and establishing a deeper connection with consumers [3]. Group 3: Future Plans - "Good Idea" is planning more public welfare initiatives aimed at integrating charity into everyday consumption, with the goal of making public welfare a core aspect of the brand's identity [5]. - The ultimate significance of the "points public welfare" project is to provide immediate nutritional support to children while fostering a long-term culture of kindness and social responsibility [5].

Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of Hunan Ailingshi Technology Co., Ltd. by Three Squirrels has been terminated due to disagreements on key terms, primarily valuation discrepancies and power struggles between the parties involved [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Termination Details - Three Squirrels initially planned to acquire Ailingshi for no more than 200 million yuan, but the offer dropped to 20 million yuan, which Ailingshi's founder viewed as a "hush money" and rejected [1]. - The rapid decline in valuation was attributed to Ailingshi's underperformance in store expansion, with only 200 new stores opened against a target of 5,000 [1]. - Ailingshi's founder, Tang Guangliang, has indicated intentions to resolve the dispute through legal means, although specific claims have not been disclosed [1]. Group 2: Operational Conflicts - Prior to the formal acquisition, Three Squirrels intervened in Ailingshi's operations, leading to conflicts over control and independence, including directives for promotional events and supply chain management [2]. - Tang accused Three Squirrels of overstepping their bounds, while Three Squirrels claimed their actions were merely suggestions [2]. Group 3: Legal Disputes - Ailingshi's lawsuit centers on recovering costs incurred during the acquisition process, while Three Squirrels argues these expenses were independently decided by Ailingshi [3]. - Tang likened Three Squirrels' negotiation tactics to a "bad marriage," suggesting unethical pressure during discussions with competitors [3]. Group 4: Strategic Implications for Three Squirrels - The failed acquisition highlights Three Squirrels' ongoing challenges in offline retail, where it has only achieved 30% of its revenue target from offline channels, falling short of its goal of 10 billion yuan by 2026 [4]. - Following the termination, Three Squirrels quickly partnered with a competitor, Snack Selection, to focus on product development and channel integration, indicating a shift towards lighter cooperation and self-initiated brand incubation [5][6]. Group 5: Industry Dynamics - The snack industry is increasingly dominated by two major players, leading to a collapse in Ailingshi's valuation as it struggles to compete with larger brands [7]. - The competitive landscape is shifting from a focus on scale to one emphasizing quality, with leading brands innovating their product offerings to enhance profitability [8][9]. Group 6: Future Outlook - The termination of the acquisition may lead to a reevaluation of strategic approaches for both companies, with Three Squirrels needing to manage litigation risks while exploring new operational models [10][11]. - Ailingshi faces significant challenges in securing investment and maintaining market presence without the backing of Three Squirrels, especially amid fierce competition [11].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the shift in consumer behavior in China, highlighting the rise of "new consumption" and its contrast with traditional consumption, emphasizing the emotional value and social aspects of modern purchasing decisions [1][4][21]. Group 1: Current Consumption Landscape - Domestic consumption has become a primary focus for the economy, with various government initiatives like subsidies and consumption vouchers aimed at boosting spending [1][2]. - China's household consumption accounts for less than 40% of GDP, significantly lower than the 70% in the US and 60% in Japan, indicating substantial growth potential [3]. - There is a notable disparity in the consumption market, with traditional sectors declining while new consumption categories are thriving [4]. Group 2: Traditional vs. New Consumption - Traditional dining sectors are struggling, with significant losses reported by established brands, while new beverage brands like Mixue Ice City are rapidly expanding [5]. - Traditional retail channels are experiencing a decline, with hypermarkets down 11.4% for four consecutive years, while snack stores are booming [7][8]. - The high-end liquor market is facing challenges, with prices for premium brands like Moutai dropping significantly, reflecting inventory pressures [9]. Group 3: Emotional and Social Aspects of New Consumption - New consumption is characterized by a shift from basic needs to "self-pleasing" demands, focusing on emotional value rather than practical utility [21][22]. - The success of products like LABUBU from Pop Mart illustrates the importance of social media and emotional marketing in driving consumer interest [30][31]. - Over 40% of young consumers prioritize emotional value in their purchases, with a significant portion seeking to please themselves through spending [35][36]. Group 4: Evolution of Consumer Behavior - The article outlines the historical evolution of consumer behavior in China, indicating three major shifts in consumption patterns since the 1990s [47][48]. - The emergence of the third consumption era reflects a transition towards valuing symbolic meanings over practical use, aligning with global trends [52][53]. - As consumer needs evolve, there is a potential shift towards a fourth consumption era, characterized by rational consumption and a focus on value [68][72]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The new consumption trend is expected to continue growing, particularly in sectors like pet economy and new consumer electronics, despite potential market corrections [62][63]. - The interplay between traditional and new consumption is seen as a driver for domestic demand recovery, supported by policy initiatives [75][76].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the shift in consumer behavior in China, highlighting the rise of "new consumption" and its contrast with traditional consumption, emphasizing the importance of emotional value in purchasing decisions [1][2][4][30]. Group 1: Current Consumption Landscape - Domestic consumption in China accounts for less than 40% of GDP, compared to 70% in the US and 60% in Japan, indicating significant growth potential [3]. - There is a notable disparity in the consumption market, with traditional sectors declining while new consumption categories are thriving [4][5]. - Traditional dining categories are struggling, with brands like 湊湊火锅 closing 73 stores and incurring losses exceeding 3.5 billion yuan, while new tea beverage brands like 蜜雪冰城 are rapidly expanding [6]. Group 2: Traditional vs. New Consumption - Traditional consumption focuses on essential daily needs, while new consumption shifts towards "self-pleasing" demands [21][22]. - The rise of "emotional consumption" is evident, with over 40% of young consumers prioritizing emotional value in their purchases [31]. - The concept of new consumption encompasses various sectors, including snack retail and new tea beverages, reflecting a broader trend towards personalized and emotional purchasing [34]. Group 3: Market Trends and Future Outlook - The article notes that new consumption trends are not merely a passing fad but are rooted in changing consumer environments and behaviors [54]. - Despite the current enthusiasm for new consumption, many companies are experiencing stock price corrections, indicating potential overvaluation [52][53]. - Long-term prospects for sectors like pet economy and new consumer electronics appear promising, with emerging trends suggesting continued growth [55][56].

Core Insights - The report highlights the ongoing trends in new consumption sectors, emphasizing opportunities in discount retail, bulk snacks, cross-border e-commerce, domestic beauty products, entertainment economy, and outdoor consumption [2][3][5] Consumption Trends - Post-1990s Japan experienced four major consumption trends: the rise of "value-for-money" consumption, increased popularity of low-cost home entertainment, a surge in vocational education demand due to unemployment, and the emergence of outdoor consumption [3][4] - In recent years, China's consumption structure has also evolved, presenting new investment opportunities, particularly in value-for-money consumption sectors such as discount retail and cross-border e-commerce [3][4] Performance of New Consumption Companies - Several new consumption companies, including Mixue Group, Blucoco, and Guming, have successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, showing impressive performance with stock price increases of 83.8%, 109.1%, and 162.4% respectively since their listings [5][7] - The report notes that the entertainment economy is gaining traction, with companies like Pop Mart reporting a revenue growth of 106.9% and a net profit growth of 188.8% in 2024 [4][5] Investment Opportunities - The report suggests that the new consumption industry trends are still ongoing, and there are opportunities for selective investment in key sectors such as discount retail, bulk snacks, cross-border e-commerce, domestic beauty products, entertainment economy, and outdoor consumption [2][5] - The performance of new consumption companies in Hong Kong is expected to catalyze similar movements in the A-share market, providing further investment opportunities [5]

每经记者｜范芊芊 每经编辑｜杨夏 量贩零食行业备受关注的一笔并购"戛然而止"。 按照三只松鼠此前的说法，这笔收购是为了共同拓展线下市场。据爱零食披露的数据，截至2024年10 月，其在全国已有超过1800家门店，覆盖13个省市自治区。对于三只松鼠而言，线下市场一直是其弱 项。而就在不久前，三只松鼠也宣布了"一分利便利店"和"三只松鼠生活馆"两大线下渠道新业态。 对于爱零食而言，竞争对手鸣鸣很忙已经递交了港股招股书，好想来母公司万辰集团也是一家A股上市 公司，在量贩零食行业竞争越来越激烈，并购越来越频繁的当下，爱零食失去了三只松鼠，未来是否会 寻找其他的资本助力，将是市场关注的重点。 6月16日，记者也试图就此事采访三只松鼠，但截至发稿，未获得有效回应。 6月16日，三只松鼠公告称，与湖南爱零食科技有限公司（以下简称爱零食）创始人唐光亮签订的《投 资意向协议》终止。三只松鼠表示，双方就本次交易的部分核心条款未达成一致，经公司充分讨论和审 慎研究，决定终止本次收购事项。 （封面图片来源：每日经济新闻 资料图） 去年10月底，三只松鼠披露，子公司安徽一件事创业投资有限公司拟以不超过2亿元收购湖南爱零食科 技有限公司 ...

Company Overview - Wanchen Group, known as the "first stock of snack retail," announced that former chairman Wang Jiankun has resumed his duties after the National Supervisory Commission lifted the detention measures against him [2][4] - Wang Jiankun has been the chairman since December 2013, and his family members, including his son Wang Zeneng and sister Wang Liqing, are significant stakeholders in the company [4] Business Development - Founded in 2011, Wanchen Group initially focused on edible fungi but entered the snack retail market in August 2022 with the launch of the "Luxiaochan" brand [5] - The company has rapidly expanded its snack retail presence through joint ventures and acquisitions, rebranding several acquired brands under "Haoxianglai" [5] Market Position - As of the end of 2024, Wanchen Group operates 14,196 stores, closely competing with Mingming Hen Mang Group, which has 14,394 stores [5] - Wanchen Group is the only publicly listed company in the snack retail sector, while Mingming Hen Mang Group has also filed for an IPO [5] Financial Performance - For the year 2024, Wanchen Group reported revenue of 32.33 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 247.86%, and a net profit of 294 million yuan, up 453.95% [5] - In comparison, Mingming Hen Mang Group achieved revenue of 39.34 billion yuan, with a net profit of 829 million yuan, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 280.28% [5]