Core Viewpoint - The recent decline in subsidies from food delivery platforms indicates a cooling trend in the fierce competition known as the "takeout war," which has been influenced by regulatory interventions and the voices of restaurant owners advocating for fair pricing practices [1][4][9]. Summary by Sections Impact on Restaurants - Many restaurant brands are expressing concerns over the pressure from platforms to participate in large subsidies, which has led to squeezed profit margins and instances of negative profitability for certain menu items [2][3]. - The rapid increase in takeout orders, which have risen from 30%-40% to around 60% of total orders, has shifted the balance away from dine-in services, creating challenges in maintaining price consistency between takeout and dine-in options [5][6]. Regulatory and Competitive Landscape - The market regulator's intervention has prompted platforms to reconsider their promotional strategies, emphasizing the need for rational competition that does not disrupt the normal operations of the restaurant industry [1][4]. - The substantial investment of over 100 billion in subsidies by the three major platforms raises questions about the long-term benefits for the restaurant sector, as the immediate effects may not be sustainable [4][9]. Long-term Industry Considerations - The ongoing competition among major players like Meituan, Alibaba, and JD.com is expected to continue, with a focus on expanding into the broader consumer market, which includes both takeout and traditional e-commerce [13][14]. - The digitalization of retail remains low, with less than 5% of the market currently engaged in near-field instant retail, indicating significant growth potential for platforms that can effectively integrate more categories into this space [14].
外卖热战停了，冷思考有哪些？