Core Insights - The recent surge in food delivery subsidies has led to a consumer frenzy, with many taking advantage of "zero-cost" offers, but the long-term implications for businesses remain uncertain [5][12]. Group 1: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are actively participating in the subsidy-driven promotions, with reports of individuals receiving significant discounts on food items, leading to increased stockpiling of goods [5][6]. - The frequency of food delivery orders among young consumers has notably increased, shifting their consumption habits towards online ordering rather than dining out [12][14]. Group 2: Business Impact - Many restaurants have experienced a dramatic increase in order volume, with some reporting up to a 50% rise in orders during the subsidy period [6][11]. - Despite the apparent increase in sales, many businesses are struggling to maintain profitability due to high operational costs, with some reporting lower net earnings compared to regular business days [7][11]. - The intense competition and reliance on subsidies are pushing restaurants into a difficult position, where participation may lead to losses while non-participation risks losing customer traffic [11][12]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The ongoing subsidy war is reshaping consumer price expectations, with many consumers now unwilling to pay prices above a certain threshold for food items [14]. - The shift in consumer behavior and price sensitivity may lead to long-term challenges for traditional dining establishments, as they compete with the convenience and low prices of food delivery services [12][14]. - The current market dynamics suggest that the food and beverage industry may face a cycle of price wars that could harm the overall ecosystem, with smaller businesses at greater risk of failure [11][14].