打工人吃不起麻辣烫，小老板们也不赚钱

Core Viewpoint - The rising prices of hot pot-style dishes like "Yang Guofu Spicy Hot Pot" have sparked consumer outrage, highlighting the disconnect between consumer expectations and the actual pricing structure of these dining experiences [4][20]. Group 1: Business Model and Cost Structure - The pricing model of hot pot restaurants has shifted to a weight-based system, which has led to higher consumer prices and a perception of "premium" dining [20][21]. - Labor costs are significant, with a typical hot pot restaurant requiring at least 2.5 employees, leading to monthly labor expenses of around 20,000 yuan in first-tier cities [6][7]. - The average operating cost for a hot pot restaurant in a first-tier city is approximately 50,000 yuan per month, including rent, utilities, and labor [7][8]. - The food cost for a bowl of hot pot is estimated to be between 8 to 10 yuan, with a gross margin of 50% to 60%, resulting in a net profit margin of about 18% under ideal conditions [8][10]. Group 2: Consumer Perception and Market Dynamics - Consumers are increasingly frustrated with the lack of transparency in pricing, particularly when they only discover the high costs at checkout [4][10]. - The shift from affordable street food to more expensive dining options has alienated some consumers, who still associate hot pot with low-cost meals [20][25]. - The market has seen a segmentation of consumer groups, with higher prices attracting wealthier customers while alienating budget-conscious diners [20][21]. Group 3: Franchise and Supply Chain Challenges - Franchisees face high initial costs, including significant expenses for equipment and supplies mandated by the brand, which can lead to financial strain [12][13]. - The requirement to purchase supplies exclusively from the brand often results in higher costs for franchisees, limiting their ability to manage expenses effectively [13][14]. - The operational support provided by brands is minimal, with most training focused on basic processes rather than in-depth business management [23][24].