Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the contrasting fortunes of new tea beverage brands, particularly focusing on the rise of brands like Mi Xue Ice City and the decline of Nayuki, highlighting the challenges faced by Nayuki in a competitive market [4][12][39]. Group 1: Market Overview - The new tea beverage market is experiencing a wealth wave, with brands like Mi Xue Ice City achieving a market capitalization of 178 billion, while Nayuki's market value has plummeted over 90% from 300 billion to approximately 2 billion HKD [4][12]. - The overall market for ready-to-drink tea beverages in China is projected to grow from 3,127 billion in 2024 to 3,689 billion in 2025, with a growth rate of about 17.97% [39]. Group 2: Nayuki's Journey - Nayuki's tea was launched in November 2015, aiming to create a high-end tea experience inspired by Starbucks' "third space" concept [5][6][7]. - Despite initial success and becoming the first unicorn in the new tea beverage sector with a post-investment valuation of 6 billion in 2018, Nayuki's fortunes reversed after its IPO in 2021 [11][12]. - From 2018 to 2024, Nayuki's revenue grew from 1.087 billion to 4.921 billion, but it incurred a cumulative net loss of nearly 6.2 billion during the same period [14]. Group 3: Challenges Faced by Nayuki - Nayuki's heavy reliance on a direct sales model has led to high operational costs, with labor and rent accounting for 41.7% of total costs, while the operating profit margin is only 7.8% [20][21]. - The brand's market share has drastically declined from 17.7% in 2021 to 1.2% in 2024, with single-store sales dropping from 30,000 to less than 10,000 [14][24]. - Nayuki's high-end positioning has become a liability as consumer preferences shift towards cost-effective options, leading to a significant drop in foot traffic and sales [24][26]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Other brands like Mi Xue Ice City and Ba Wang Cha Ji have successfully adopted a franchise model, allowing for rapid expansion and lower operational costs, contrasting with Nayuki's struggles [27]. - Nayuki's attempt to open franchise opportunities came too late, with high initial fees deterring potential franchisees, resulting in a closure of nearly 350 stores in the past year [28][37]. Group 5: Recent Developments and Future Strategies - Nayuki is attempting to pivot towards health-focused products and has launched a new line of sugar-free beverages, but competitors quickly matched these offerings, diluting Nayuki's unique selling proposition [39][40]. - The company is also exploring the light meal segment and has initiated a brand upgrade, simplifying its name and logo in an effort to rejuvenate its market presence [39][41].