Core Viewpoint - The opening of "Ru Sushi," a sushi brand under Haidilao, marks a significant entry into the competitive low-cost sushi market, targeting consumers seeking value for money as dining preferences shift towards more affordable options [1][2]. Industry Overview - The sushi segment has the highest store count among Japanese cuisine categories, accounting for 42.4% of the market. As of March 2025, there are over 23,000 sushi outlets in China, with more than 50% of them having an average consumer spending of below 35 yuan [3]. - The number of operating Japanese cuisine brands in China has decreased from 52,276 in August 2023 to 28,631 by August 2024, indicating a contraction in the market [3]. Competitive Landscape - "Ru Sushi" competes directly with other affordable sushi brands like Sushi Lang and Murakami House, with its main offerings priced at 9.9 yuan and 15 yuan. The store has a capacity of 56 tables and has introduced over 200 SKUs across various categories [2]. - The average customer traffic on weekends is approximately 800 to 1,000, with a table turnover rate of up to 8 times [2]. Operational Efficiency - The current market dynamics show a trend towards low-cost dining options, leading to a decline in mid-to-high-end sushi brands. Examples include Akasaka and Wasabi House, which have seen significant customer loss due to their higher price points [4]. - Local brands are successfully positioning themselves as affordable alternatives, with average spending at Murakami House around 80 yuan and other brands like Ikeda Sushi and N多寿司 below 50 yuan [4]. Supply Chain and Management - "Ru Sushi" leverages Haidilao's supply chain advantages, utilizing a combination of local suppliers and global sourcing, ensuring a standardized supply system through cold chain logistics [4]. - The management approach for "Ru Sushi" involves experienced leaders from Haidilao's hot pot operations, ensuring robust operational capabilities and customer experience from the outset [5].