Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2022, the company's revenue reached RMB12.9 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 29.1% [4][14] - The net profit was RMB922 million, up 1.5%, while the core EXTEP brand's net profit increased by 10.7% to RMB1.35 billion [5][16] - The final dividend per share was RMB7.1, with a payout ratio of 50% for the full year [5][19] - Operating profit rose by 4.9% to RMB1.464 billion, with the core EXTEP brand's operating profit increasing by 9.4% to RMB1.759 billion [15][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core EXTEP brand revenue grew by 25.9% to RMB11.128 billion, driven by strong performance in running products and kits [15][24] - The Athleisure segment revenue increased by 44.4% to RMB1.4 billion, with a significant contribution from the K Swiss and Palladium brands [15][44] - The number of stores for core EXTEP brand increased by 116 to a total of 6,313, with plans to open around 200 more stores in 2023 [18][40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail sell-through growth was mid double digits for 2022, with Q1 exceeding 30% and Q4 experiencing a decline due to pandemic impacts [10][12] - By the end of 2022, inventory turnover days improved from 106 to 90 days, indicating better inventory management [22] - The company expects retail performance to improve in 2023 as pandemic control measures are relaxed, leading to more development opportunities in the sportswear industry [8][55] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on the running category and enhance its brand positioning through professional performance to attract the mass market [7][42] - Plans include upgrading retail channels, enhancing store images, and increasing investment in kids' business to capture young consumers [37][40] - The company is committed to corporate social responsibility and aims to align with China's dual carbon goals through sustainable product offerings [36][41] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the recovery of the consumption market in 2023, anticipating strong growth in the sportswear industry [8][55] - The company is confident in achieving double-digit growth for the core EXTEP brand and 20% to 30% growth for the Athleisure segment in 2023 [55] - Management highlighted the importance of brand upgrading and expanding the running ecosystem to strengthen market presence [29][42] Other Important Information - The gross margin for the Athleisure segment decreased from 44.6% to 37.6% due to logistics and supply chain issues, but is expected to recover above 40% in 2023 [19][20] - The company reported a total loss of RMB120 million from four new brands still in the investment stage, which impacted overall profit growth [16][17] - The company has a healthy balance sheet with net cash of RMB1.22 billion and sufficient capital to support future brand developments [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the growth targets for the new brands? - The company aims for Saucony and Merrell to achieve sales growth targets of 60% to 70% in 2023, with Saucony expected to break even [53][55] Question: How does the company plan to manage inventory levels? - The company has improved inventory turnover days and expects to return to a normal level of four months by the end of 2023 [13][22] Question: What is the outlook for the Chinese market? - Management is confident in the future of the Chinese economy, citing increased health consciousness and government support as positive factors [54][55]
XTEP INT'L(01368) - 2022 H2 - Earnings Call Transcript