
Core Viewpoint - Haidilao has adopted a family-based management system that combines traditional elements with modern practices, creating a unique corporate culture that emphasizes mentorship and internal growth [10][21][23]. Group 1: Family System and Management - The family system at Haidilao consists of various "families" represented by animal-themed badges, with each family comprising 5 to 18 stores led by a "master store manager" [3][5][10]. - This system is rooted in a mentorship model where experienced store managers train their apprentices, who in turn can establish their own families once they reach a certain scale [10][21]. - The family structure allows for significant decision-making power, including store expansion and management evaluations, fostering a sense of ownership among the family leaders [10][23]. Group 2: Employee Training and Retention - Haidilao's mentorship model is designed to ensure consistent service quality across its locations, as all management personnel are internally trained [13][29]. - The rigorous training process includes multiple assessments and a clear path for advancement, which helps reduce employee turnover and enhances motivation [29][30]. - The emotional connection fostered by the family system encourages employees to view Haidilao as a home, contributing to a strong corporate culture [32][34]. Group 3: Financial Incentives and Performance - The financial structure of the mentorship system includes performance-based incentives, where store managers receive a percentage of profits from their stores and those of their apprentices [23][25]. - This "multi-level" incentive system encourages managers to actively develop their teams, as their earnings are directly tied to the success of their apprentices [25][27]. - Despite the potential for high earnings, there are strict performance evaluations, and poor performance can lead to penalties for both the manager and their apprentices [27][30]. Group 4: Challenges and Evolution - The rapid expansion of Haidilao led to challenges, particularly during the pandemic, resulting in significant store closures and a reevaluation of the family management system [30][32]. - In response to operational difficulties, Haidilao has experimented with different management structures, including a shift to regional managers, but has reverted to the family system due to its deep-rooted connections with store operations [32][33]. - The company is now attempting to balance its traditional family culture with a more rational and transparent management approach to attract a new generation of employees [33][34].