Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and current state of the massage industry in a specific city, highlighting regulatory changes and market dynamics that affect business operations and valuations. Group 1: Industry Evolution - The massage industry has transitioned from a chaotic environment requiring approval from regulatory bodies to a more structured "registration system" that still involves significant oversight [7][8]. - The concept of a "blue channel" is introduced, suggesting that certain establishments can bypass standard regulations if they have connections within the regulatory body [10][12]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - There is a market for selling massage parlors or even the staff if they do not obtain the necessary approvals to operate [14]. - The practice of "valuation management" is noted, where businesses may bring in teams to enhance their perceived value before a sale [15][16]. Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - Despite the increase in applications for operating licenses, the actual approval process remains opaque, with establishments claiming to be in line for approval without clear evidence [20]. - Regulatory bodies may intervene in business transactions, even when both parties are willing, indicating a level of control over market competition [18][19]. Group 4: Personal Perspectives - Industry professionals express a desire for autonomy, with some exploring alternative business models such as home service offerings [22]. - The conversation reflects a broader sentiment of adapting to market conditions, akin to seeking alternative stock exchanges when primary options are unavailable [23].

小宋我去某个四线城市尽调项目，做了一天访谈，晚上急需"回回血"。打开大众点评，搜索"按摩"，找到一间会所，看评论还算正规，我就去了。 安排给我的是一位看起来 40 多岁的姐姐，简称"吴姐"。 我刚躺下，吴姐就开腔：先生你是做金融的吧？ 我惊讶：你怎么看出来的？ 因为你操着普通话，说明是来出差的。然后，你看着年龄不大，但是有些秃顶，还有黑眼圈。 我们当地有很多挺大的企业，叫什么 ...ipo 阶段企业。像你这行业的人，我经常接待，都差不多长你这个样子。 我心想，这个姐有内容，有意思。"你干这行多久啦？" 吴姐说： 18 岁我就入行喽，也算是见过这行业的大风大浪的。 嗷？啥风浪？ 我入行的时候，按摩业务已经不能随便上了，要去 X 局审批，简称"审核制"。 然后呢，那个时候，很乱的，你只要 X 局里有人，就能上。要是没人呢，就找个对缝的，帮你对接 X 局的人。 然后，你得给帮你忙的人，一些好处。 我：还可以这么搞？不怕被查到嘛？ 吴姐：我们都很守规矩的，大家嘴都很严。上面要是问，就咬死说，是我们会所软硬件达标，是凭实力上的。 我：有意思。后来呢？ 后来肯定逐渐正规啦，这种灰色操作没得搞啦。再后来，说要提高市场效率， ...