Chinese lifestyle retailer MINISO has launched a HK$2 billion (approximately US$255 million) share repurchase programme, while founder, Chairman and CEO Ye Guofu moves ahead with plans to increase his personal ownership in the company, underscoring confidence in the retailer’s long-term growth prospects and global expansion strategy.
The new buyback programme, which became effective on June 30, authorises the company to repurchase up to HK$2 billion worth of its ordinary shares and American Depositary Shares (ADSs) over the next 12 months. The purchases will be funded through surplus cash on MINISO’s balance sheet.
According to the company’s announcement, the Board believes the repurchase programme demonstrates its confidence in MINISO’s long-term business outlook and reflects its view that the company’s current market valuation does not fully represent its intrinsic value. The initiative is also intended to balance rapid business expansion with stable and predictable shareholder returns.
The latest programme follows an earlier share repurchase initiative under which MINISO bought back approximately HK$1.37 billion worth of shares and ADSs, continuing its broader capital allocation strategy.
Founder Ye Guofu had already signalled his confidence in the company earlier this year by announcing plans to purchase at least HK$50 million worth of MINISO shares using his own funds over a 12-month period. At the time of the announcement, Ye controlled approximately 63.7% of the company’s equity.
Announcing the move, Ye said his planned investment reflected his confidence in MINISO’s long-term development following years of consistent execution and global growth.
The capital return announcement comes as MINISO continues to strengthen one of the world’s largest franchise-driven specialty retail networks.
Founded in 2013, MINISO operates a predominantly franchise and partner-operated business model, allowing the company to expand rapidly while maintaining relatively asset-light operations. The retailer now has more than 7,000 stores worldwide, including nearly 6,900 MINISO-branded outlets alongside its TOP TOY stores, spanning Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa and Oceania.
Franchising has been instrumental to the company’s international growth strategy, enabling local operators to leverage MINISO’s merchandising, global sourcing capabilities, licensed intellectual property portfolio and standardized retail format.
The company has also accelerated the rollout of flagship locations and IP-themed stores featuring globally recognised brands such as Disney, Sanrio, Barbie, Pokémon, Harry Potter and Minions, helping drive higher customer engagement and international brand recognition.
With annual revenue exceeding US$2.4 billion, MINISO continues expanding across major international markets while combining franchise development with direct strategic investments in flagship destinations and experiential retail concepts.
The latest share buyback and Ye Guofu’s increased investment are expected to reinforce investor confidence as the retailer continues pursuing global store expansion, franchise growth and stronger shareholder value creation.
