Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of the restaurant chain "Tai Er" from a single-item focus on "sour fish" to a broader menu strategy, highlighting the challenges and market dynamics that necessitated this shift [4][47]. Group 1: Company Strategy and Transformation - Tai Er has undergone significant changes, including rebranding some locations to "Tai Er Fresh Sour Fish" and others to "New Tai Er Fresh Material Sichuan Cuisine," indicating a shift from a single-item model to a wider variety of offerings [4][5]. - The number of SKUs (Stock Keeping Units) has increased to around 40, reflecting a diversification of the menu to compete with broader-category restaurants [5]. - The initial success of Tai Er was attributed to its focus on a single dish, sour fish, which was highly marketable and operationally efficient [27][37]. Group 2: Market Trends and Challenges - The restaurant industry has seen a decline in average customer spending, with data indicating that dining prices have returned to levels close to those in 2015 [43]. - There is a noticeable decrease in foot traffic in shopping centers, impacting restaurants that rely heavily on these locations [44]. - Consumer expectations have shifted towards greater variety and quality, with a growing preference for freshly prepared dishes over pre-packaged options [45]. Group 3: Operational Efficiency and Supply Chain - The sour fish model allowed for a streamlined supply chain with fewer SKUs, reducing waste and increasing profit margins [15][14]. - The sourcing of core ingredients, such as bass fish, has been advantageous due to its short farming cycle and high utilization rate, ensuring stable and cost-effective supply [23][24]. - The article emphasizes that the success of a restaurant often hinges on the quality and availability of agricultural products, which can significantly impact operational efficiency [18][21]. Group 4: Future Directions - Tai Er's recent changes include expanding its menu to include a wider range of Sichuan dishes and introducing children's meals, aiming to attract family dining and group gatherings [47]. - The company has relaxed previous restrictions, such as not allowing takeout and limiting table sizes, to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions [47]. - The article concludes that the restaurant industry must continuously adapt to survive, as past successful strategies may no longer yield the same results in a changing market landscape [48].