Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid expansion of the restaurant industry in shopping malls, highlighting the dominance of four key segments: tea and coffee, baking, hot pot, and noodle shops, which are becoming essential players in mall transformations [8][10][19]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The restaurant industry is expanding at an unprecedented rate in both high-end and community shopping centers [7]. - The four key segments—tea and coffee, baking, hot pot, and noodle shops—are becoming the main players in mall openings [10]. - In April, the Shenzhen iN City Plaza reopened with a significant presence of food and beverage brands, indicating a shift away from luxury brands [9]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - In Q2 of this year, the proportion of new restaurant openings in high-end malls reached 30%, with a store opening-to-closing ratio of 1.51 [9]. - The increasing number of restaurant stores is a response to the declining performance of apparel and beauty brands, which have seen significant store closures [19][20]. - The average rental price in Shanghai's core shopping districts was reported at 1,877 RMB per month per square meter in Q2 2025, indicating the financial viability of these restaurant segments [26]. Group 3: Consumer Behavior - The restaurant segments are characterized by a high turnover rate, with some malls reporting over 30% annual turnover in their restaurant offerings [23]. - The tea and coffee segment alone has nearly 900,000 stores nationwide, while the baking segment has reached 338,000 stores [23]. - The rapid expansion of these segments is driven by a large influx of entrepreneurs, making it a popular area for new business ventures [23]. Group 4: Strategic Importance - The "four kings" of the restaurant industry are seen as crucial for malls facing high vacancy rates, as they can attract foot traffic and generate stable rental income [22][26]. - Malls are increasingly viewed as essential platforms for restaurant brands to enhance their visibility and expand their market presence [28][30]. - The standardized operations of these restaurant segments make them well-suited for mall environments, allowing for quicker openings and brand updates [34].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid expansion of the food and beverage industry in shopping malls, highlighting the dominance of four key segments: tea and coffee, baking, hot pot, and noodle shops, which are becoming essential players in mall renovations and attracting foot traffic [6][14][23]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The food and beverage sector is expanding at an unprecedented rate in both high-end and community shopping centers, with tea and coffee, baking, hot pot, and noodle shops emerging as the "four kings" of this transformation [6][7]. - In April, the reopening of Shenzhen iN City Square showcased a shift from luxury brands to a significant presence of food and beverage outlets, indicating a broader trend across various malls [7][8]. - According to statistics from Winshang, in the second quarter of this year, new food and beverage openings accounted for 30% of mall openings, with a store opening-to-closing ratio of 1.51 [7][20]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The article notes a stark contrast between the decline of fashion and beauty retailers and the rise of food and beverage establishments, with many malls now prioritizing dining options over traditional retail [5][15]. - The pressure of high vacancy rates in shopping malls is increasing, with projections indicating that by mid-2025, 27% of shopping center projects may experience rising vacancy rates [17][18]. - The food and beverage industry is seen as a "lifeline" for malls facing challenges in attracting customers and filling vacant spaces, as it has a strong customer draw and lower entry barriers for new businesses [19][21]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The "four kings" of food and beverage are characterized by their rapid expansion and high turnover rates, with tea and coffee shops alone reaching nearly 900,000 locations nationwide by May 2025 [20][21]. - Brands like Bawang Chaji and A Ma Handmade are increasingly occupying prime locations in malls, reflecting their strong rental capabilities and the demand for stable rental income from shopping centers [21][24]. - The article emphasizes that the food and beverage sector is well-suited for mall operations due to its standardized processes and lower complexity compared to traditional dining establishments, making it easier for brands to establish a presence in shopping centers [26].