Core Viewpoint - The article reflects on the life and impact of Zhao Han, the founder of Yunhai Yao, highlighting the challenges faced by the restaurant industry and the personal struggles of Zhao as he pursued his dream of promoting Yunnan cuisine globally [4][25]. Group 1: Zhao Han's Legacy - Zhao Han passed away suddenly at the age of 40, leaving behind a significant mark on the Chinese chain restaurant industry with Yunhai Yao, which has expanded to 143 locations in 29 cities and 5 in Singapore by July 2025 [6][9]. - Zhao was known for his idealism and straightforwardness, often expressing his views candidly about the struggles within the restaurant sector, particularly during challenging times [10][11]. - His commitment to Yunnan cuisine and the restaurant's growth was evident, as he aimed to bring authentic Yunnan dishes to a broader audience, despite the industry's difficulties [16][25]. Group 2: Industry Challenges - The restaurant industry has faced severe pressures, with many businesses struggling to maintain profitability. For instance, in the first half of 2024, profits for major restaurants in Beijing plummeted by 88.8% year-on-year, with a profit margin of only 0.37% [10][30]. - Yunhai Yao, primarily focused on dine-in services, has been adversely affected by the rise of low-cost fast food and the shift in consumer behavior towards takeout during the pandemic [29][30]. - The company has also faced operational challenges, including a significant drop in revenue during the pandemic, leading to drastic measures such as closing unprofitable locations and exploring community sales [30][31]. Group 3: Business Model and Growth - Yunhai Yao's growth was accelerated by investments from major firms like Sequoia Capital and Junlin Capital, allowing for rapid expansion and the establishment of a strong brand presence in the market [21][22]. - The brand's signature dishes, such as small pot rice noodles, faced production challenges due to the need for quality control and supply chain management, which Zhao addressed by investing in local production facilities [22][24]. - Despite the challenges, Zhao's vision for Yunhai Yao has set a precedent for the standardization and expansion of Yunnan cuisine, paving the way for future entrepreneurs in the sector [24][25].