Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the struggles of small and medium-sized restaurant owners in the face of high commissions and fees imposed by food delivery platforms like Meituan, leading to a growing sentiment of frustration and disillusionment among merchants [1][5][17]. Group 1: Financial Strain on Merchants - Many restaurant owners report that after deducting subsidies, commissions, and delivery fees, their actual earnings from orders are significantly low, often leaving them with less than 6% of the sale price [1][5]. - The high commission rates, which can reach around 30% when including various fees, severely impact the profitability of small businesses, making it difficult for them to sustain operations [15][22]. - Merchants express that despite their efforts to attract customers through promotions and advertising, the costs associated with these strategies often outweigh the benefits, leading to substantial financial losses [14][19]. Group 2: Emotional and Psychological Impact - The ongoing financial pressure creates a sense of defeat and hopelessness among restaurant owners, who feel trapped in a system that favors the platforms over their businesses [5][10]. - Many merchants describe their experiences as a "zero-sum game," where the competition and platform rules create an environment where only a few can thrive, while the majority struggle to survive [20][22]. - The emotional toll of constant financial strain leads some owners to abandon their entrepreneurial dreams, feeling that they are merely working for the platforms rather than running their own businesses [12][18]. Group 3: Shift in Business Strategies - In response to the challenges posed by delivery platforms, some merchants are exploring alternative business models, such as focusing on private customer bases and direct sales to avoid platform fees [23][24]. - There is a growing trend among restaurant owners to seek out new delivery channels, indicating a desire for a more equitable relationship with service providers [23]. - The article suggests that a restructuring of the distribution logic within the food delivery industry is necessary to create a more balanced ecosystem that benefits both merchants and consumers [23][24].