Xin Lang Ke Ji·2025-07-24 10:36Core Viewpoint - Meituan is actively engaging in discussions regarding the challenges and impacts of price wars in the food delivery industry, emphasizing the need for fair competition and sustainable practices among businesses [1][5]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - The influx of new platforms has led to a significant market investment of 800 billion in subsidies, resulting in aggressive price wars that have decreased average order values by 7 to 10 yuan and reduced merchant income by 15% [1][2]. - Many merchants express concerns that the reliance on high subsidies creates a "false prosperity," as customer retention diminishes once subsidies are removed, leading to a decline in both order volume and average order value [1][2]. - The pressure from price wars disproportionately affects small and medium-sized businesses, which struggle to compete against larger brands that can absorb the costs of subsidies [3][4]. Group 2: Operational Impacts - The fluctuation in order volumes due to subsidies increases operational stress on frontline staff, as businesses must hire additional employees to manage peak orders, leading to higher labor costs and potential declines in service quality [2][3]. - The price sensitivity of consumers has shifted, with many opting for lower-priced items, which has further compressed profit margins for businesses that rely on higher-quality offerings [3][4]. Group 3: Recommendations and Future Directions - Experts suggest that platforms should allocate resources more effectively to create a fair competitive environment, allowing for diverse market development and reducing the negative impacts of price wars on smaller businesses [4][5]. - Meituan has announced plans to invest in infrastructure, including the establishment of 1,200 "Raccoon Canteens" and the expansion of satellite stores, to support the growth of various restaurant brands and enhance operational efficiency [6].