Core Viewpoint - The bakery industry is experiencing a contrasting trend compared to the competitive "9.9 yuan price war" in the tea and coffee sectors, with high-priced products becoming increasingly common in popular bakery stores [1][2] Pricing and Consumer Perception - High prices for bakery items, such as 30 yuan for egg tarts and 50 yuan for loaves of bread, are prevalent, with most products priced between 20 yuan and 60 yuan [1] - Consumers express mixed feelings about the high prices, with some willing to pay occasionally while others find the quality lacking compared to cheaper supermarket options [1] - Long queues at popular bakery stores have become a hallmark, with consumers often waiting hours to purchase trendy items [1] Cost Factors - Rising raw material costs are a significant factor driving up prices, as many brands are competing for quality ingredients [1] - High labor costs are also a concern, as training skilled bakers takes months, and the industry faces a high spoilage rate due to short product shelf life [1][2] - The operational costs, including rent and labor, contribute to the overall pricing strategy of bakery products [2] Marketing and Consumer Engagement - To maintain brand relevance, trendy bakeries are continuously launching limited products and engaging in marketing activities, which are reflected in their pricing [2] - Social media plays a crucial role in promoting bakery products, with topics related to "must-try bakery items" gaining millions of views [2] - The appeal of trendy bakeries lies in their ability to meet the emotional and experiential needs of younger consumers [2] Industry Challenges - Product homogeneity is a significant issue, with many new offerings lacking true innovation, leading to consumer fatigue [3] - The presence of counterfeit products and negative experiences, such as long wait times, are eroding brand loyalty [3] - The decline in the number of registered bakery-related businesses over the past five years indicates potential challenges in the industry [2] Future Directions - Experts suggest that brands should invest in research and development to create healthier products and innovate in ingredients and processes [3] - Operational improvements, such as centralizing production and adopting smart technology, could help reduce costs and waste [3] - Shifting marketing strategies from attracting new customers to retaining existing ones through transparency and trust-building is recommended [3]