Hicon Network Technology(Shandong) (SZ:301262)2025-08-27 15:19Summary of the Conference Call Company and Industry Overview - The company operates in the konjac product industry, focusing on konjac food and related products, with a significant emphasis on tea drink additives, instant snacks, and ingredients [2][11]. Key Financial Performance - In the first half of 2025, the company achieved a revenue of 359 million yuan, representing a year-on-year growth of 37.17% [4]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders was 40.92 million yuan, up 23.01% year-on-year, while the net profit after deducting non-recurring items was 34.93 million yuan, reflecting an 18.71% increase [4]. - The operating cash flow reached 126 million yuan, marking a 36.93% growth [4]. Revenue Growth Drivers - Revenue growth of over 35% in the first half of 2025 was primarily driven by both volume and price increases, with price hikes contributing significantly [2][11]. - The konjac food segment saw a remarkable growth of 58%, with tea drink additives accounting for approximately 55% of sales [13]. Raw Material Price Trends - Konjac raw material prices surged by about 80% since June 2024 due to rapid growth in downstream demand, particularly from snack brands like Weidong and tea chains like Mixue Ice City [6][7]. - This price increase is expected to remain high until around October 2025, when new konjac crops are harvested [7]. Supply Chain Management - The company collaborates with rural cooperatives and primary processing plants to secure stable raw material supplies, avoiding direct dealings with individual farmers [9][10]. - The company has a stock of over 300 million yuan in raw materials, semi-finished products, and packaging, ensuring a steady supply chain [12]. Export and International Market - Exports to the U.S. have been hindered due to international circumstances and tariffs, but growth has been maintained in Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America [14]. - The company has established a dedicated department to explore foreign ingredient markets, with foreign trade gross margins slightly higher than domestic ones [14]. Product Development and Market Strategy - The company aims to increase its global market share in konjac powder and konjac gum from approximately 12% to 40%-50% in the future [3][29]. - The konjac beauty business has been discontinued due to consistent losses, with resources redirected towards konjac food products [5][21]. Challenges and Future Outlook - The konjac food business faces pressure with a gross margin of less than 20%, necessitating scale expansion to improve profitability [22]. - The company is optimistic about the future of konjac products, particularly konjac balls, which have seen increased demand due to the rise of delivery services [15][19]. Seasonal Factors and Market Predictions - The company experiences seasonal revenue fluctuations, primarily concentrated in the third and fourth quarters [31]. - Despite a strong performance in the first half of 2025, there is uncertainty regarding the full-year revenue growth due to intense competition and the consumer market's recovery [31]. Conclusion - The company is strategically positioned in the konjac industry, focusing on product innovation and market expansion while navigating challenges related to raw material costs and international trade dynamics [25][30].