Core Insights - OATLY is undergoing a strategic review of its Greater China operations, considering various options including potential divestiture, after seven years in the market [1][4] - The company reported a 3% revenue growth in Q2, but the Greater China segment experienced a 6.4% decline in revenue year-on-year [2][5] Financial Performance - In Q2 2025, OATLY's Greater China revenue was $27 million, continuing a trend of declining growth since 2020, while the first half of the year showed a 12.5% increase to $56.95 million [2] - The adjusted EBITDA for the Greater China segment showed a loss of $636,000, marking five consecutive years of unprofitability [2] Market Dynamics - Approximately 62% of OATLY's revenue in Greater China is still reliant on the food service channel, which is currently under pressure, although retail channel growth has partially offset this decline [2][3] - The plant-based market in China has shifted from initial hype to a cooling phase, with significant competition from local brands impacting OATLY's market share [3][5] Competitive Landscape - OATLY faces increasing competition from local brands such as Yili, Mengniu, and Vitasoy, and ranks fourth in the Tmall plant-based beverage repurchase list [3] - Market analysts attribute the decline in OATLY's performance to factors such as waning consumer interest, high product prices, and the rise of domestic brands [3] Strategic Options - Three potential paths for OATLY's Greater China operations have been suggested: exiting the market, forming partnerships with local brands, or operating independently [4] - CEO Jean-Christophe Flatin indicated a preference for the independent operation route, emphasizing the need to maximize value after restructuring [4][7] Operational Capabilities - OATLY has established a fully localized team and R&D center in China, significantly shortening the product development cycle to respond to market changes [4][7] - The company has successfully penetrated both B2B and B2C markets, with its products being used to create approximately 1.4 billion cups of oat lattes since entering the market [6][7] Market Share - OATLY holds a 62.9% market share in the Chinese oat milk market, reflecting a growth of over 10 percentage points year-on-year, despite the challenges faced [5][6]

Core Viewpoint - OATLY is considering a strategic review of its Greater China operations, which may include divesting this segment to accelerate growth and maximize business value [4][5][10] Financial Performance - OATLY's revenue for Q2 2025 increased by 3% to approximately $208 million, with a gross margin improvement of 3.3 percentage points to 32.5% [3] - The net loss attributable to shareholders was approximately $55.9 million, an increase of $25.5 million compared to the same period last year [3] - In Greater China, revenue decreased by 6.4% to $26.976 million, down from $28.8 million in the same quarter last year [3][4] Strategic Review - The strategic review of the Greater China business will consider various options, including potential divestiture, to enhance growth and value [4][5] - OATLY continues to operate in the Greater China market during this review, maintaining its production facilities and commitments to customers, consumers, and employees [4][5] Market Dynamics - OATLY has faced increased competition in the plant-based beverage market in China, with numerous local brands emerging [7][8] - The company initially struggled to penetrate the market but found success by positioning its products in coffee shops, leading to significant brand recognition [6][7] - The plant-based beverage market in China is experiencing a slowdown, with consumers becoming more price-sensitive and local brands capturing market share [9][10] Future Outlook - Analysts suggest that OATLY's ability to innovate and adapt is crucial for its success in the increasingly competitive market [10] - The company must evaluate its performance in 2025 before making final decisions regarding the Greater China operations [10]