A Financial Analysis of Meituan Based on Its External and Internal Environment

Abstract

This paper conducts a comprehensive examination of Meituan, a prominent technology retail firm in China, renowned for its innovative "retail + technology" approach aimed at enhancing lifestyles through superior dining experiences. Evaluating Meituan's recent financial performance, the study underscores its impressive growth, marked by a 23% year-over-year surge in combined yearly sales, totaling 220 billion yuan, and a noteworthy adjusted net profit of 2.8 billion yuan. A critical analysis of the Chinese food delivery market reveals Meituan's dominant position, operating in a duopoly with Alibaba's Ele.me, while also anticipating the potential entry of Pinduoduo as a formidable competitor. The paper emphasizes the imperative for Meituan to strategically navigate the evolving landscape of the fresh supply chain domain, striking a balance between exploration and exploitation to establish a sustainable competitive advantage. Despite Meituan's robust revenue performance, with a first-quarter 2021 revenue surpassing CNY 37 billion and a remarkable YoY growth rate of 120.9%, potential hazards such as the intensification of antitrust regulations in China's Internet sector and operational challenges arising from Meituan's diversification efforts are explored. In conclusion, the analysis posits Meituan as a promising long-term investment, provided the company effectively addresses emerging risks and capitalizes on strategic opportunities in the ever-changing technology retail sector.