Core Insights - The core point of the article is that Heytea has experienced significant growth in store numbers but is now facing challenges with its franchise model, leading to a strategic shift towards maintaining quality and high-end positioning while managing franchisee pressures [1][9][29]. Expansion and Franchise Strategy - Heytea's store count increased from under 900 to over 3200, with more than 2300 being franchise stores, marking a successful phase in its franchise strategy [1]. - The franchise model was initiated in November 2022 to expand into more markets [2]. - However, the expansion faced difficulties, leading to a suspension of the franchise business in February 2023 and franchisees expressing the need for more support from the brand [3][19]. Store Closures and Challenges - Over the past year, Heytea closed more than 650 stores, indicating a high closure rate within the industry [4][6]. - The reasons for store closures include contract expirations and poor performance, with franchisees facing significant pressure due to high standards and a competitive market [6][10]. - Monitoring data shows a rapid shift from expansion to contraction, with a net closure of 680 stores projected by October 2025 [9][10]. Franchisee Experience and Pressure - Franchisees report high entry costs and operational pressures, with some considering not to renew contracts due to financial strains [12][19]. - The operational demands from Heytea, including strict adherence to quality standards, have led to high turnover rates among employees, further complicating franchisee operations [17][19]. Market Position and Competition - Heytea's market position has weakened compared to competitors, with other brands like Mixue and Gu Ming rapidly expanding their store counts [24][25]. - The company is exploring alternative expansion strategies, including smaller store formats and international markets, to maintain its brand quality while adapting to market conditions [26][28]. High-End Positioning and Product Strategy - Heytea aims to return to a high-end market position, focusing on product quality and customer experience, despite the challenges of competing in a price-sensitive market [29][33]. - The company has introduced new products with high-quality ingredients, but faces difficulties in maintaining premium pricing due to market competition [34][36]. - The brand's commitment to high standards is evident in its operational practices and product offerings, although achieving this in a competitive landscape remains challenging [39].

Core Insights - The article discusses the innovative approach of companies like Heytea in creating new products that blend traditional flavors with modern trends, exemplified by the "Mooncake Milk Tea" which has gained popularity among young consumers [1][3][7] - The trend reflects a shift in consumer preferences, where younger generations seek to maintain the festive spirit of traditional foods while desiring new and exciting experiences [8][17] Group 1: Product Innovation - Heytea's "Flowing Heart Milk Tea" has become a new favorite for employees during the Mid-Autumn Festival, replacing traditional mooncakes with a more appealing beverage option [1][3] - The product combines various flavors, including salted egg yolk and black sugar pearls, creating a rich and layered taste experience that resonates with consumers [5][19] - Other brands, such as Dahuzi Ice Cocoa, have also introduced similar innovative drinks, indicating a broader trend in the beverage industry [5][19] Group 2: Changing Consumer Preferences - Young consumers are increasingly looking for new ways to celebrate traditional festivals, as seen in their enthusiastic responses to the "Mooncake Milk Tea" [3][8] - The success of these innovative drinks suggests that consumers want to enjoy familiar flavors in a modern context, leading to a resurgence of traditional tastes in new formats [16][19] - The article highlights that this trend is not limited to specific festivals, as various traditional snacks are being reimagined in beverage form throughout the year [12][16] Group 3: Market Trends - The beverage industry is witnessing a shift from relying solely on collaborations and marketing hype to focusing on product quality and innovation [20][21] - Companies are leveraging traditional snacks as inspiration for new drink offerings, creating unique selling points that resonate with consumers [19][21] - The trend of integrating regional specialties into drinks is expanding, allowing local flavors to reach a wider audience [14][19]

Core Viewpoint - The dessert industry faces significant challenges from the rapidly expanding new tea beverage sector, which is increasingly incorporating dessert items into their menus, leading to a blurred line between categories [1]. Market Dynamics - Top 10 new tea brands have increased their dessert SKU count by 170% over the past two years, with dessert sales now accounting for 18% of total sales, up from 5% [1]. - The dessert market is experiencing a slowdown in expansion among leading brands, while regional players are intensifying competition [1]. Company Strategy - The company plans to expand its franchise stores to over 2,000 in the next 3-5 years, targeting a net revenue of 1 billion from franchise operations [2]. - The company emphasizes a dual approach to supply chain management, balancing centralized production for core products with flexible supply chains for seasonal and trending items [14][15]. Competitive Landscape - The dessert sector is characterized by a lack of IPO cases, with leading brands like Baoshifu and Luxihe not yet listed, indicating a cautious approach to capital markets [3]. - The dessert market is currently in an "efficiency competition" phase, where companies must return to the fundamentals of business and respect single-store profitability to achieve sustainable growth [8]. Consumer Trends - The dessert market is primarily focused on intimate and family social settings, which limits its scene coverage compared to tea and coffee [5]. - There is a significant opportunity for dessert brands to innovate while maintaining traditional elements, as consumer preferences evolve [6][16]. Future Outlook - The company aims to achieve 500 direct-operated stores and 1 billion in net revenue from direct sales, alongside 1 billion from retail operations, while expanding its franchise network [19]. - The future of the dessert industry will likely hinge on enhancing consumer experience, adapting to changing lifestyles and consumption patterns [18].