Jing Ji Guan Cha Bao·2025-08-05 12:01Company Dynamics - The hot pot brand Banu, known for its "beef tripe + mushroom soup" specialty and high-end positioning, has submitted its IPO application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aiming to become the "third hot pot stock" [2] - Despite its premium branding, Banu faces a surge in complaints on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and Weibo, raising concerns about food safety, service quality, pricing disputes, and unfair terms, which threaten public trust in its high-end strategy [2][3] - Banu's average consumer spending exceeds 130 yuan, and its promotional slogan of "not overdoing service, focusing on every detail" contrasts sharply with the frequent complaints about food safety issues, including reports of foreign objects found in dishes and health problems like vomiting and diarrhea after dining [2][3] Consumer Complaints - Complaints regarding Banu's membership rights system have also sparked outrage, with consumers alleging that rules for redeeming points and using coupons were unilaterally changed without prior notice [3] - Data from the Black Cat Complaints platform indicates a significant increase in complaints against Banu in the first half of 2025, with issues related to unfair terms, false advertising, poor service, and food safety [3] Internal Management Issues - Internal management problems have surfaced, with former management trainees and staff claiming that the company does not treat employees fairly, citing excessive working hours and unfulfilled promotion promises [3] - Discussions on social media platforms have highlighted the disparity between the high prices of Banu's offerings and the experiences of both consumers and employees [3] Food Safety Controversies - Banu's food safety controversies date back to 2023, including an incident involving a store in Xi'an selling "18 yuan for 5 slices of selenium-rich potatoes," which was later found to have significantly lower selenium content than claimed [4] - In September 2023, a subsidiary brand, "Super Island Self-Selected Hot Pot," was accused of selling "fake lamb," with tests revealing duck meat instead of lamb, leading to further scrutiny of Banu's supply chain [4] IPO Challenges - As Banu approaches its IPO, these issues cast a shadow over its prospects, with the company's founders controlling 83.38% of voting rights through offshore structures, raising potential governance risks [5] - The company has expanded its direct store network to 145 locations across 39 cities, a 74.7% increase from 83 stores at the end of 2021, and has established a dual headquarters in Beijing and Zhengzhou [5] - For Banu to gain investor confidence during its IPO journey, it must address marketing boundaries and ensure that its average spending of 130 yuan corresponds to tangible quality improvements rather than mere brand premium [5]