Core Viewpoint - Haidilao has launched a "Super Dessert Station" in Shanghai, offering over 30 dessert options at affordable prices, indicating a strategic move to diversify its offerings beyond hot pot and enhance customer experience [1][4]. Group 1: Business Strategy - The introduction of desserts serves not only as a profit booster but also as a way to create a new customer experience during waiting times, enhancing the overall dining experience [4][12]. - The combination of main dishes and baked goods is becoming a significant trend among restaurant brands, with Haidilao following suit to increase customer engagement and sales [4][11]. - Other hot pot brands, such as Coucou, have successfully integrated desserts into their offerings, demonstrating a mature business model that elevates desserts to a strategic level [6][11]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The dessert offerings from hot pot brands are designed to extend customer stay and increase average spending, with desserts acting as a natural profit supplement [12][14]. - The ability to leverage supply chain efficiencies allows Haidilao to offer desserts at lower prices compared to independent bakeries, enhancing its competitive edge [16][17]. - As customer acquisition costs rise, baked goods serve as a low-cost entry point to attract customers, making them an effective tool for driving foot traffic [19][21]. Group 3: Consumer Trends - The dessert market is particularly appealing to younger consumers, with 70% of dessert consumption driven by women aged 18-35, indicating a strong alignment with Haidilao's target demographic [26][24]. - The average spending on desserts has increased from 25 yuan in 2019 to an expected 42 yuan by 2025, reflecting a growing willingness to spend on dessert experiences [26]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The entry of major restaurant brands into the baking sector is reshaping the traditional baking industry, forcing smaller brands to adapt or risk being overshadowed [27][39]. - Traditional bakeries face challenges in competing with large chains on cost and talent acquisition, necessitating a shift towards more specialized and artisanal offerings [29][30]. - The market is expected to evolve into a more diverse landscape, where large chains dominate the mass market with affordability, while independent bakeries focus on quality and unique experiences [41].