CLSA released a research report stating that WANT WANT CHINA (00151) reported a 2% year-on-year increase in interim revenue as of the end of September this year, in line with market expectations. However, its profit declined 8% year-on-year, falling short of expectations, primarily due to lower gross margins and higher operating expense ratios. The target price was reduced from HK$5.3 to HK$4.9, while maintaining a "Hold" rating.
CLSA expressed optimism about WANT WANT CHINA's new distribution channels and product development. Emerging and specialty snack retail channels now contribute over 25% of total revenue, up from less than 10% two years ago, while new products' contribution rose from nearly 10% to 15%.
However, CLSA cautioned that the company may need to allocate more resources in the short term, and rising raw material and advertising costs could pressure profit margins. Consequently, it lowered its net profit forecasts for fiscal years 2026–2028 by 8% to 13%.