中国餐饮企业正在参与一场新时代的哥伦布大交换

Core Viewpoint - The year 2023 is considered a pivotal moment for the Chinese restaurant industry as it embarks on a new wave of globalization, with numerous brands accelerating their overseas expansion efforts, marking a significant shift from previous attempts [3][4][5]. Group 1: Historical Context of Chinese Restaurant Globalization - The Chinese restaurant industry has experienced three previous waves of globalization, starting in the mid-19th century with immigrants opening various eateries abroad [3]. - The second wave occurred in the 1990s when state-owned brands attempted to enter international markets but often failed due to a lack of understanding of local markets [3]. - The third wave around 2010 saw brands like Haidilao and Huang Jihuang learn from past mistakes, successfully adapting their strategies to local tastes and preferences [3][4]. Group 2: Characteristics of the 2023 Globalization Wave - The current wave of globalization is marked by a diverse range of participants, including both large listed companies and smaller brands from lower-tier cities [4]. - The focus has shifted to a model and organizational approach, leveraging China's chain restaurant advantages while being flexible in ownership and franchise models [4][5]. - Chinese restaurant brands are increasingly recognized for their ability to adapt to various market segments and customer needs, supported by robust supply chain capabilities [10][13]. Group 3: Success Stories and Market Adaptation - Brands like Zhang Liang Spicy Hot Pot have successfully established a presence in markets like Thailand, where local acceptance has exceeded expectations [10][12]. - The adaptability of Chinese cuisine is highlighted by the success of Panda Express, which has over 2,300 locations globally and is well-regarded in North America [15][19]. - Happy Lamb Hot Pot has also made strides in international markets, with a significant portion of its customer base being local non-Chinese diners [21][24]. Group 4: Supply Chain and Operational Strategies - Chinese restaurant companies are enhancing their supply chain systems to ensure compliance and efficiency, addressing challenges such as sourcing quality ingredients and navigating regulatory hurdles [13][24]. - The importance of local teams and management structures is emphasized, with companies like Sweet Lala establishing comprehensive operational frameworks in overseas markets [25][27]. - The involvement of top executives in market research and decision-making processes is crucial for understanding local dynamics and ensuring successful market entry [27][28].