Robust Revenue & Profit Growth Highlights Resilience of a Leading Chinese Catering Enterprise

HANGZHOU, China, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In 2025, amid a challenging operating environment, Green Tea Group achieved rapid growth by leveraging its over-20-year brand heritage. The Group recorded revenue of RMB4,762.97 million, a 24.1% year-on-year increase; adjusted net profit was RMB508.89 million, surging 41.0%. The total number of stores reached 609, up 31.0%, underscoring its strength as an “evergreen brand.”

Three Core Brand Genes Lay Foundation

From its origins as a West Lake youth hostel, Green Tea has fostered three core genes: fusion cuisine, value-for-money, and new Chinese style. These form the foundation for navigating cycles and building a national brand.

Chinese Fusion Cuisine integrates regional cuisines and customizes menus locally, enabling Green Tea to thrive in diverse regions like Beijing, Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Sichuan, creating a nationwide layout. Value-for-money focuses on core consumer needs, optimizing cost structure for a competitive dining experience. New Chinese style draws from traditional culture for a classically elegant dining atmosphere. These complementary genes underpin sustained growth and store resilience.

Financial Indicators Improve Across the Board

Empowered by its brand genes, store expansion, and operational efficiency, Green Tea delivered outstanding 2025 results, showing high growth and strong profit resilience.

Revenue maintained high momentum, reaching RMB4.76 billion, a 24.1% increase, outpacing the industry. Per CIC, Green Tea became China’s third-largest Chinese-style catering brand (excl. hot pot/grilled fish). Profit growth was stronger: adjusted net profit hit RMB509 million, up 41.0%. The adjusted net profit margin rose 1.3 percentage points to 10.7%. ROE reached 29%.

The cost structure continued to optimize. Raw material costs remained stable, supported by scale. The third-generation supply chain model integrating “key suppliers, digital cold chain, and smart kitchen” enabled strategic supplier partnerships, centralized procurement, and lower logistics costs. This, plus lean management, boosted 2025 gross margin by ~1.8 percentage points while ensuring ingredient quality.

Labor costs saw efficiency gains from digitalization and process optimization. The Group maintained a stable labor cost ratio while improving employee compensation. Rental and depreciation costs fell 1.0 percentage point year-on-year from optimized fit-out and design. Other expenses were contained via refined control. This optimization reinforced value-for-money positioning while improving profitability.

Breakthroughs in Store Model, Network, and Overseas Expansion

2025 saw significant strides in store operations, national expansion, and international development.

Store model resilience was prominent. Same-store sales declined only 0.8%, outperforming the industry, with declines narrowing quarterly and turning positive from Q2. Average spending per head for dine-in was stable; table turnover stabilized. Delivery business rose from 18.8% to 25.3%, focusing on “single-portion meals” as a new growth engine. New store formats validated well: 2025 newly opened stores’ dine-in sales per square meter reached RMB1,953 monthly, 48.4% higher than existing stores. The single-store payback period optimized to 12.6 months, with a new store investment return rate of 73.1%. Stores in lower-tier cities even outperformed first-tier cities in profit margins.

The national store network intensified and penetrated lower-tier markets. Adhering to “regional intensification + broad lower-tier penetration,” the Group added 157 new stores, exceeding 600 total stores covering nearly 150 cities, maintaining a ~30% CAGR. In core cities, a differentiated intensification strategy enhanced brand influence. In lower-tier markets, it entered 16 new cities below second-tier. The average stores per city and per million population remain below industry averages, indicating huge room for further intensification.

International expansion saw major breakthroughs. 2025 was Green Tea’s true “year of international expansion.” Starting in Southeast Asia, it advanced steadily, operating 14 overseas stores in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, China by year-end. Overseas revenue surged 16 times year-on-year to over RMB140 million, becoming a new growth engine.

From a small West Lake eatery to a national leader, Green Tea’s impressive first-year listed performance is both a culmination and a starting point. Looking to 2026, Green Tea will uphold “fusion cuisine, value-for-money, and new Chinese style,” leveraging quality products and efficient operations to implement strategies for sustainable development, creating greater value for all stakeholders.

About Green Tea Group Limited

Green Tea Group is a well-known operator of casual Chinese restaurants in Mainland China. With accessible prices, Chinese fusion cuisine, and decoration inspired by Chinese traditional culture, the company delivers value to its customers. With this vision in mind, the company opened its first Green Tea Youth Hostel in 2004 on the shores of Hangzhou’s West Lake, marking the beginning of the Green Tea brand story. As of the end of 2025, the company’s restaurant network consisted of 609 restaurants, covering nearly 150 cities across the country. According to a report by CIC, the company ranked third in the Chinese dining sector (excluding fast food, hot pot, and grilled fish categories) in terms of brand revenue in 2025.

Industry-aligned local strategic investors including GRDC, Hort Innovation, GrainCorp and Agnition Ventures all joined recent Series A round

• Australian farmers face soaring fertiliser prices as events such as Middle East conflict curtail supply
• PlasmaLeap technology reduces exposure to price shocks and supply disruptions, while lowering emissions

SYDNEY, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PlasmaLeap Technologies, the Australian company pioneering zero-emissions production of ammonia and nitric acid, said its recent A$30 million ($21 million) fundraising shows strong support from leading Australian agribusinesses and industry organisations for technology that can safeguard fertiliser supply.

The Series A round attracted investment from Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), Hort Innovation, and GrainCorp through funds managed in partnership with Artesian, as well as New Zealand’s Agnition Ventures (Corporate VC of Ravensdown Co-operative). Gates Foundation, Investible, Yara Growth Ventures (The VC unit of Yara International), UniSuper and Twynam also participated.

PlasmaLeap, which was spun out of the University of Sydney, has developed a patented reactor that can produce ammonia and nitrate – key ingredients in fertiliser – using only air, water and renewable electricity. Fertiliser prices have leapt following the start of the war in the Middle East, which supplies 45% of the world’s traded nitrogen fertilizer, with approximately one third of globally traded fertilisers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

“The conflict in the Gulf has highlighted the risks to nitrogen fertiliser supply and the very real risks to farmers – and consumers – from price shocks,” PlasmaLeap CEO and co-founder Frere Byrne said. “Anecdotally, we’re hearing that lack of diesel is affecting planting decisions, while local fertiliser supplies are quickly being exhausted. Our technology removes some of that risk by enabling farmers to produce fertiliser themselves, which has crucial benefits in terms of derisking supply chains, and reducing emissions.”

GRDC Managing Director Nigel Hart said technologies that improve fertiliser supply resilience and reduce emissions were strategically important for the Australian grains sector.

“PlasmaLeap’s approach to decentralised nitrogen production has the potential to strengthen supply chains while supporting more sustainable farming systems. GRDC is pleased to support the continued development and evaluation of this technology for Australian growers,” Mr Hart said.

GrainCorp Strategy and Ventures Manager Zack Atlas said: “At GrainCorp Ventures, we’re committed to investing in innovative technologies that deliver value for growers while improving the sustainability and resilience of agricultural supply chains. PlasmaLeap’s clean, decentralised fertiliser technology has the potential to help growers of all sizes lower emissions, reduce costs, and drive meaningful decarbonisation efforts.”

Anthony Kachenko, General Manager – Production & Sustainability R&D at Hort Innovation, said the investment reflects the role of innovation in strengthening grower resilience and sustainability.

“Access to reliable, affordable fertiliser is critical for horticulture growers, particularly as input costs and supply chain pressures continue to rise,” Kachenko said. “Technologies like PlasmaLeap’s, which enable on‑farm and localised production using renewable energy, have the potential to improve supply security while also reducing emissions – supporting both productivity and long‑term sustainability outcomes for Australian growers.”

This round demonstrates cross-sectorial backing for world-leading technology tackling pressing national agriculture needs, and evidences a growing pool of local industry-aligned capital with tailored-strategic mandates suitable to fund industry growth and transformation.

Proceeds from the raising will be used to progress first-of-a-kind fertiliser hubs in NSW and Tasmania, expand field trials and further develop PlasmaLeap’s core technology. Longer term opportunities for the technology beyond fertiliser include sustainable fuels and energy systems.

About PlasmaLeap:

PlasmaLeap designs, manufactures, and distributes the world’s most advanced zero-emissions modular chemical reactors for hard-to-abate industries including agriculture, energy, and transport. Our mission is to build accessible, sustainable technology for global fuel and chemical production. Headquartered in Sydney, PlasmaLeap’s state-of-the-art chemical plants are disrupting the chemical sector, using only air, water and electricity to create valuable fuels, fertilisers, and industrial chemicals with marked-leading energy performance and production rates. PlasmaLeap is a grant recipient of The Gates Foundation, the 2025 winner of SVG Thrive, a finalist in Petronas Future Tech 4.0, and a 2024 Australian nominee for the Earthshot prize.

SINGAPORE, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Singapore homeowners continue to invest in improving their living spaces, interior design trends are evolving to reflect changing lifestyles, practical needs, and aesthetic preferences. From space-saving solutions to personalised design concepts, homeowners today are prioritising both functionality and comfort when renovating their homes.

Industry professionals note that renovation projects in Singapore are increasingly influenced by lifestyle shifts, remote work arrangements, and the desire for homes that provide both relaxation and productivity.

Interior design firms such as The Alchemists Design, a Singapore-based interior design and renovation company, have observed several emerging trends shaping residential interiors in the coming year.

1. Space-Optimised Layouts for HDB Living

With many Singaporeans living in HDB flats, space optimisation remains one of the most important aspects of interior design. Homeowners are increasingly focusing on layouts that maximise functionality without compromising aesthetics.

Open-concept layouts, built-in storage solutions and multi-functional furniture are becoming popular choices for homeowners looking to make the most of limited space. Thoughtful carpentry designs and custom storage features allow homeowners to maintain a clean and organised environment while improving everyday convenience.

2. Minimalist and Clutter-Free Interiors

Minimalism continues to influence interior design trends in Singapore. Clean lines, neutral colour palettes and simple furniture arrangements are increasingly preferred by homeowners who want calm and uncluttered living spaces.

This design approach not only enhances visual appeal but also improves functionality by reducing unnecessary items and creating a more spacious atmosphere.

Interior designers have also observed growing interest in Scandinavian-inspired interiors, which emphasise simplicity, natural lighting and practical design elements.

3. Personalised Design Concepts

Rather than relying solely on standard renovation packages, many homeowners are now seeking personalised interior design solutions that reflect their lifestyle and personality.

Custom carpentry, tailored storage systems and unique design themes allow homeowners to create spaces that better suit their daily routines.

According to interior design professionals, personalised design planning can also help address specific needs such as work-from-home setups, family-friendly layouts and improved storage capacity.

4. Durable and Sustainable Materials

Material selection has become an important consideration for homeowners who want their renovation investment to last over time. Durable materials that are easy to maintain are increasingly preferred, especially for frequently used spaces such as kitchens and living areas.

Sustainability is also becoming a factor in design decisions. Homeowners are exploring environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient lighting and wood products that meet lower formaldehyde emission standards.

These choices not only contribute to healthier living environments but also improve long-term durability.

5. Practical Storage Solutions

Storage planning remains one of the most common concerns among homeowners renovating HDB flats. Designers are increasingly incorporating hidden storage, vertical shelving and built-in cabinetry to maximise available space.

Practical storage planning helps homeowners maintain tidy interiors while ensuring that everyday items remain easily accessible.

Interior design firms emphasise that effective storage solutions should be planned early during the design phase rather than added as an afterthought.

Balancing Design Aesthetics with Everyday Living

While design inspiration often comes from social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, professionals advise homeowners to balance aesthetic preferences with practical considerations.

A visually appealing home should also support everyday activities, whether it involves family living, entertaining guests or working from home.

Singapore-based interior design firm The Alchemists Design highlights that successful renovation projects often combine creative design concepts with practical planning to ensure that spaces remain functional and comfortable over time.

The firm undertakes both residential and commercial interior design projects, including HDB flats, condominiums, landed properties and commercial spaces, helping clients transform their ideas into well-designed environments.

In addition, the company offers HDB BTO and resale renovation packages for homeowners seeking practical, no-frills renovation solutions, alongside fully customised design services.

Creating Spaces That Reflect Modern Lifestyles

As Singapore’s built environment continues to evolve, interior design trends are increasingly shaped by the needs of modern homeowners and businesses.

From efficient space planning to personalised layouts and durable materials, these trends reflect a growing emphasis on creating spaces that support both lifestyle needs and long-term functionality.

With thoughtful planning and the guidance of experienced interior design professionals, property owners can create environments that are not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday use.

About The Alchemists Design

The Alchemists Design is a Singapore-based interior design and renovation company specialising in both residential and commercial projects, including HDB flats, condominiums, landed homes and commercial spaces.

The firm provides a range of services from customised interior design solutions to practical renovation packages for HDB BTO and resale flats. With a focus on functional design, quality workmanship and attentive customer service, The Alchemists Design helps clients create spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and suited to their everyday needs.

For more information, visit:
https://thealchemistsdesign.com/

GUANGZHOU, China, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As 2026 begins, GAC takes the lead with an “impressive start” performance: in January this year, its overseas wholesale sales surged 69% year-on-year, continuing the robust growth momentum of the past two years and laying a solid foundation for the 2026 overseas sales target of “300,000 units”. Among them, the AION V set a new monthly retail sales record since its overseas launch.

In terms of regional market highlights, GAC Flourishing Across the Globe: In the Asia-Pacific region, GAC consistently ranks among the top three Chinese brands in sales volume in the Cambodian market; In Europe, retail sales in Greece in January surged 233% month-on-month compared with December, as brand recognition steadily rises with market performance. In the Middle East, the GAC GS8 ranked third among Chinese brands in terms of sales of large SUVs in Kuwait, verifying its product competitiveness in the segment. In the Americas, GAC ranks first sales among Chinese brands in the Dutch Caribbean market of Panama; In Colombia, GAC retains its position among the top three in overall EV sales, with its regional influence continuing to expand.

Behind the strong sales growth lies the continuous launch of high-quality products and solid construction of systematic capabilities. In terms of product layout, the GAC S7 and AION i60, which were launched in China in 2025, are set to make their overseas debut soon, accelerating the product rhythm. These two popular models, highly recognized in the domestic market, are expected to become “growth drivers” for GAC’s overseas product matrix.

In terms of system construction, the “Thousand-Network Plan” continues to advance, with 20 new overseas outlets added in January, bringing the total global network to 650, covering 86 countries and regions across 5 major regions: Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Europe, CIS and Central and South America, providing sufficient network support for future sales growth. 5 overseas productions have been completed and put into operation, while the AION UT project has reached a key milestone with the successful roll-off of the first prototype from Magna’s factory in Austria. Localization production projects in Cambodia, Brazil and Egypt are also in progress.

For further information about GAC, please visit: https://www.gacgroup.com/en or follow us on social.