知名品牌被曝跑路！失联、储值不退、人去楼空……创始人遭“悬赏”

Core Viewpoint - The company "Salad Time" has faced significant backlash from consumers and franchisees due to operational failures, including the disappearance of vending machines, unfulfilled service promises, and financial insolvency, leading to bankruptcy proceedings for its parent company [3][21][22]. Company Operations - "Salad Time" was established in 2020, focusing on AI vending machines for healthy food options, and expanded rapidly with significant capital investment, including a notable endorsement from celebrity Jay Chou [10][14]. - The company had ambitious growth plans, aiming to deploy 100,000 vending machines by 2025, but faced operational challenges and market misjudgments that led to ineffective locations and increased pressure on operations [13][14]. Financial Issues - The company has been reported to have a strained financial situation, with delayed salary payments to employees and unresolved financial obligations to franchisees, leading to legal actions against it [15][20][18]. - Despite securing multiple rounds of funding, the rapid expansion and high operational costs have resulted in a cash flow crisis, ultimately leading to bankruptcy [14][22]. Consumer and Franchisee Reactions - Consumers have expressed frustration over unrefunded prepaid balances and poor customer service, with many vending machines reported as non-operational [5][17]. - Franchisees have reported significant losses, with some facing legal battles to recover investments and unpaid earnings, highlighting the company's failure to meet contractual obligations [17][18][20]. Legal Proceedings - The parent company has entered bankruptcy proceedings, and the founder has been subject to a public reward notice for information regarding his assets due to outstanding debts [22][23]. - Legal experts suggest that the operations of the subsidiary "Shenzhen Chef Easy Era" may be scrutinized for potential asset concealment and evasion of financial responsibilities [27].