卤味生意，真的不好做了

Core Insights - The industry is facing significant challenges, with rising costs and decreasing consumer demand leading to reduced profits for operators and major brands alike [1][4][10] Group 1: Industry Performance - The revenue of major brands like Juewei, Zhou Hei Ya, and Huang Shang Huang has declined, with Juewei's revenue dropping by 13.84% to 6.257 billion yuan in 2024, and net profit down 34.04% to 227 million yuan [4][12] - The overall market is experiencing a downturn, with many small operators like Wang Lei reporting a significant drop in daily sales and profit margins [5][7] - The number of stores for major brands is decreasing sharply, with Juewei closing 5,112 stores, a 32% reduction from its peak [16][19] Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are increasingly sensitive to prices, with 47.2% indicating they would reduce purchases if prices rise by over 10% [25] - There is a shift in consumer preference towards purchasing ready-to-eat products from supermarkets, which offer lower prices and guaranteed quality [8][9] - The perception of high prices has led to a decline in consumer interest, with many referring to the brands as "expensive" and "not worth it" [23][24][29] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The industry is experiencing severe homogenization, with over 70% similarity in product offerings among competitors, leading to price wars and reduced profit margins [42] - Major brands are opting for high pricing strategies to maintain profit margins rather than competing on volume, which is causing a loss of consumer loyalty [21][30] - The competitive environment is intensifying, with many new entrants and local shops contributing to market saturation [5][6][39] Group 4: Cost Pressures - Rising operational costs, including rent and labor, are putting additional pressure on profit margins, with costs increasing by 8% to 10% annually [41] - The cost structure of these businesses is heavily influenced by raw material prices, which account for 70% to 80% of total costs [28][29] Group 5: Future Outlook - The industry is at a critical juncture, with a need for brands to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions [46][47] - There is a call for brands to return to a value-driven approach, focusing on quality and affordability to regain consumer trust [45][47] - The potential for innovation and new product development is highlighted as essential for survival in a rapidly changing market [45][46]