Summary of Xtep International Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Xtep International - **Industry**: Sportswear and Footwear Key Points Sales Performance - Xtep International's recent sales performance has outpaced competitors, driven by new product launches such as the 160×7 and X7 Pro, with the champion series carbon plate running shoes expected to sell 8 million pairs, achieving a 50% market share in marathons, significantly surpassing Nike [2][6][4] Product Strategy - The company covers a wide range of consumer segments through different price tiers, with high-end products priced between 160, 260, and 360 series, and mass-market offerings like the Qingyun series priced from 299 to 799 yuan, catering to various consumer needs [2][7] - The children's apparel segment is growing faster than adult products, focusing on functional products for ages 8 to 12, developed in collaboration with universities to enhance product competitiveness and parental trust [2][8] Financial Metrics - Despite a decline in gross margin in the first half of 2025 due to an increased proportion of lower-margin apparel products, the company anticipates a gradual recovery in gross margin as scale effects and brand strength improve [2][9] Inventory and Sales Growth - Inventory turnover remains stable at approximately 4 to 4.5 months, with discounts maintained between 70% to 75% [3] - Same-store sales growth exceeded 25% in the first half of 2025, with e-commerce single-store sales surpassing 400,000 yuan [5][11] E-commerce and Marketing - E-commerce sales are projected to continue double-digit growth, with a focus on major platforms and live-streaming channels to enhance brand exposure [21] - The company plans to increase marketing investments in the Saucony brand while ensuring stable growth for the main brand [12][14] International Expansion - Xtep's overseas market share has rapidly increased to about 1%, with strategic focus on Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the broader Russian region, utilizing a distributor model for market penetration [19][20] Future Outlook - For 2025, the main brand is expected to maintain stable growth, while Saucony is projected to achieve a 30% to 40% increase in sales, with plans to expand product categories and reach a scale of at least 2 billion yuan by 2027 [22][23] Differentiation Strategy - Xtep differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on professional running shoes and sponsoring major running events, positioning itself as a leader in marathon participation rates [15] Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Strategy - The company plans to transition 100 to 200 stores to a DTC model in 2025, with an aim to enhance operational efficiency and control over sales channels [16][17] Children's Footwear Strategy - Xtep is implementing a comprehensive service system for children's footwear, including testing and recommending suitable products, which has led to increased gross margins in this segment [9] Additional Insights - The company is leveraging collaborations with educational institutions to develop products that meet children's developmental needs, enhancing brand trust among parents [8]

Core Viewpoint - Xtep International Holdings Limited has launched its new generation of championship running shoes, the Xtep 160X 7, emphasizing technological advancements and responding to runners' expectations, aiming to lead industry innovation [1][4]. Product Innovation - The Xtep 160X 7 series showcases significant upgrades in product performance and technology, with a total research investment exceeding 2 billion yuan and over 2,600 patents acquired by 2025 [2]. - Four major champion technology platforms were introduced: XTEP FIT, XTEP DURA, XTEP ACE+, and XTEP POWER, designed to enhance runners' performance [2]. - XTEP FIT technology utilizes a database of over 300,000 foot shapes to provide a comfortable experience tailored to Chinese runners [2]. - XTEP DURA technology employs marathon-grade CPU materials and AI for precise outsole design, achieving a balance of durability, slip resistance, and lightweight [2]. - The XTEP POWER technology matrix incorporates innovative materials like PI fiber and basalt fiber to enhance speed [2]. Product Features - The Xtep 160X 7.0 PRO features a one-piece lightweight upper design, improving elasticity, fit, breathability, and quick-drying capabilities [3]. - The outsole's slip resistance has improved by 38.5% due to XTEP DURA technology, while the propulsion of the new "golden carbon plate" GT700 has increased by 8% compared to the previous generation [3]. - The midsole utilizes upgraded XTEP ACE+ technology with a dual-density design for optimal comfort and support over long distances [3]. - The new "Qingyun Matrix" cushioning running shoes cater to various runner demographics, including casual and heavier runners [3]. Market Positioning - Xtep aims to connect professional racing with mass running, creating a comprehensive running ecosystem that benefits all runners [4]. - The brand has achieved a leading position in the wearing rates of running shoes among top marathon competitors in China, reflecting its strength in the professional sports sector [6]. - Over the past five years, Xtep has invested 15 million yuan in cash and equipment to support athletes, resulting in 507 championships for 107 athletes [6]. - Xtep's dual-track model of "professional leadership + mass promotion" aligns with national sports strategies, fostering a culture of running among the public [6].

Core Insights - Xtep International reported operational data for Q2 and the first half of 2025, meeting expectations with low single-digit year-on-year growth in Q2 and mid single-digit growth in the first half [1] - The children's segment outpaced the adult segment, with footwear performing better than apparel, driven by functional running and outdoor products [1] - Saucony achieved over 20% growth in Q2 and over 30% growth in the first half, with a clear brand positioning focused on elite runners and high-performance products [1][2] Brand Performance - The new brands Saucony and Maile maintained rapid growth, with Saucony projecting 30-40% growth for the full year [2] - Saucony is strategically reducing low-priced products online and tightening discounts while expanding its presence in core cities with new store formats [2] - Maile's sales trends are strong, with over 50% growth in both Q2 and the first half, primarily driven by e-commerce [2] Inventory and Financial Health - The inventory level remains healthy, with a sell-through ratio of approximately 4 to 4.5 months at the end of Q2, and discount rates stable at 30-35% [2] - The company expects gross margins to meet expectations, with marketing and R&D expenses within budget, indicating stable operating profit margins [2] Channel Performance - Online sales growth outpaced offline, with direct-to-consumer (DTC) initiatives progressing well, involving around 500 stores transitioning from franchise to self-operated [3] - The DTC transformation is expected to enhance market responsiveness and long-term competitiveness, with plans to open larger stores and introduce new store formats [3] Product Category Insights - Core running products performed well, achieving double-digit growth, while leisure products showed some volatility [3][4] - The company has optimized its multi-brand matrix by divesting from fashion sports brands and focusing on core running business, which is expected to strengthen its market position [4] Future Outlook - The company maintains a "buy" rating and profit forecasts, expecting net profits of 1.37 billion, 1.50 billion, and 1.63 billion for 2025-2027, corresponding to PE ratios of 10, 9, and 8 [4] - The focus on the running segment post-divestment is anticipated to enhance brand synergy and future growth prospects [4]