Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Hua Yu Hua's design for the Mixue Ice City flagship store has sparked significant public debate, particularly regarding the aesthetic choices and branding strategies employed by the company [1][4][12]. Group 1: Controversy and Public Reaction - Hua Yu Hua's founder, Hua Shan, faced backlash after defending the design of the Mixue Ice City flagship store, attributing criticism to a misunderstanding of color usage [4][12]. - The flagship store in Hangzhou has drawn large crowds, shifting the focus from design criticism to the store's popularity and product offerings [4][5]. - Hua Shan's comments, which included references to Confucius and national pride, were perceived as dismissive of public opinion, leading to further criticism of both him and Hua Yu Hua [12][13]. Group 2: Marketing Impact and Brand Strategy - Hua Yu Hua played a significant role in elevating Mixue Ice City from a local brand to a national sensation through catchy advertising, such as the viral song "You Love Me, I Love You, Mixue Ice City Sweet" [5][21]. - Despite the controversy, the success of Mixue Ice City is attributed to its strategic management and product quality, rather than solely to advertising efforts [5][23]. - As Mixue Ice City expands internationally, there is a need for a rebranding strategy to avoid being associated with "low" aesthetics, especially in competitive markets like North America [6][28][34]. Group 3: International Expansion and Pricing Strategy - Mixue Ice City has opened approximately 4,700 stores in 13 countries, focusing on a low-cost pricing strategy to attract customers [28][30]. - The pricing of Mixue Ice City's products in the U.S. ranges from $1.19 to $4.99, significantly lower than competitors like Starbucks, which charges nearly $6 for a latte [30][31]. - However, concerns have been raised about the sustainability of this pricing model in the North American market, where consumer expectations and competition are evolving [32][34].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ambitious goals of a company aiming to become the world's leading strategic marketing brand consulting firm, alongside the development of proprietary branding theories to be included in global university curricula [1] Group 1 - The company, Huashan, aims to establish itself as the world's top strategic marketing brand consulting firm [1] - The company promotes its proprietary theories, including the SUPER SIGN and BRAND TRINITY, as Chinese intellectual property in branding communication [1] - A notable figure, Luo Yonghao, critiques the company's theories, suggesting they are derivative and lack originality, questioning the feasibility of their ambitions [1]

Core Viewpoint - The marketing firm Hua Yu Hua is facing a significant brand trust crisis due to a public dispute with entrepreneur Luo Yonghao, which has raised questions about its professional integrity and reputation [2]. Group 1: Company Background - Hua Yu Hua was founded in July 2002 and has established itself as a prominent player in the advertising industry, known for creating "super symbols" [14]. - The company has a history of notable advertising campaigns and collaborations, including partnerships with major brands such as Xibei and various food and beverage companies [10][12]. Group 2: Recent Developments - On November 26, 2023, Luo Yonghao issued an ultimatum to Hua Yu Hua's founder, Hua Shan, demanding a public apology regarding comments about Xibei being "set up" [2]. - This incident marks the second confrontation between Hua Yu Hua and Luo Yonghao in three months, indicating escalating tensions and potential reputational damage for the firm [2]. Group 3: Financial Aspects - Hua Yu Hua's consulting services start at 6 million yuan per year, with significant contracts including a 60 million yuan brand consulting service for Xibei from 2013 to 2023 [12]. - The company has also faced financial challenges, with its publishing arm experiencing stagnant revenue growth [30]. Group 4: Educational Initiatives - Hua Yu Hua has established a business school and published various books on branding and marketing strategies, contributing to its reputation as a thought leader in the industry [18][33].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing public dispute between Luo Yonghao and Huayi Huayi highlights the complexities and controversies surrounding the marketing firm, particularly its relationship with the restaurant chain Xibei and its founder Huashan's recent comments that reignited tensions [2][12][33]. Group 1: Company Background and Controversies - Huayi Huayi, founded by Huashan, is known for its high consulting fees, having received over 600 million from Xibei over ten years [14][16]. - The firm employs a unique marketing strategy based on traditional culture, termed the "Super Symbol" theory, which has garnered both acclaim and criticism [15][33]. - Despite past successes, including Xibei's growth from 1.6 billion to 6.2 billion in revenue from 2013 to 2019, Huayi Huayi faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its design choices and marketing practices [16][33]. Group 2: Recent Developments and Public Reactions - The latest exchange between Luo Yonghao and Huashan has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting Huayi Huayi and others criticizing its approach [12][13]. - Huashan's recent comments about Xibei being the "ceiling of the Chinese restaurant industry" and his reference to a "network of demons" have reignited the debate, suggesting a potential strategy shift [2][12]. - The firm has faced legal and reputational challenges, including a significant fine for advertising violations, which contrasts sharply with its marketing philosophy of integrity [26][33]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Shareholder Actions - Huayi Huayi's associated company, Duku Culture, has experienced declining revenues since its IPO, with figures dropping from 519 million in 2021 to 168 million in the first half of 2025 [28][29]. - Shareholder actions have raised concerns, with key executives cashing out over 170 million, exceeding the company's total net profit over five years [31][32]. - The ongoing financial struggles of Duku Culture reflect broader challenges within Huayi Huayi's business model and its impact on stakeholder confidence [28][33].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing conflict between Luo Yonghao and Hua Shan highlights tensions in the public relations industry, particularly regarding the handling of brand reputation and crisis management [2][3]. Group 1: Conflict Background - The dispute began when Hua Shan commented on a salary increase for Xibei employees, suggesting that Xibei is a top-tier company in the restaurant industry, which Luo Yonghao contested [2][3]. - Luo Yonghao's criticism of Xibei's high-priced pre-made dishes in September 2023 led to Hua Shan defending Xibei and labeling Luo as a "network black mouth" [3][4]. Group 2: Financial Implications - Hua Yu Hua has earned over 60 million yuan in consulting fees from Xibei since 2013, with a goal to earn 100 million yuan in the next decade [4]. - Luo Yonghao's public questioning of Hua Yu Hua's consulting practices raises concerns about the effectiveness and professionalism of high-fee public relations firms [4]. Group 3: Social Media Impact - The conflict has generated significant online discussion, with terms related to Luo Yonghao and Hua Shan trending on social media platforms [3]. - Luo's mention of releasing a recording has heightened public interest and speculation regarding the nature of their private communications [3][4].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing public dispute between Luo Yonghao and Hua Shan, highlighting the implications for the public relations industry in China, particularly regarding the reputation of Hua Yu Hua Marketing Consulting Co., Ltd. [3][5] Group 1: Background of the Dispute - The conflict began when Hua Shan commented on a salary increase for Xibei employees, which Luo Yonghao perceived as a misrepresentation of the situation, leading to a public confrontation [3][4] - Luo Yonghao's initial response included a threat to release a recording if Hua Shan did not clarify his statements, which generated significant online discussion and speculation [4][5] Group 2: Financial Implications - Hua Yu Hua has been a long-term consultant for Xibei, reportedly earning over 60 million yuan in consulting fees since 2013, with a goal to earn 100 million yuan in the next decade [5] - The high consulting fees and the nature of their public relations strategies have drawn criticism from Luo Yonghao, who labeled the firm as "brand assassins" for their approach [5] Group 3: Industry Impact - The dispute has raised questions about the effectiveness and ethics of public relations practices in China, particularly in how firms manage their reputations and client relationships [3][5] - Luo Yonghao's comments suggest that the future of Hua Yu Hua in the public relations sector may be jeopardized if they do not address the current controversy effectively [3][5]

Core Viewpoint - The conflict between Luo Yonghao and Hua Shan has escalated, drawing significant public attention, particularly due to the suspense surrounding the potential release of a private conversation recording. The outcome of this dispute could impact the reputation of Hua Yu Hua in the public relations industry. Group 1: Background of the Conflict - The dispute originated from a Weibo post by Hua Shan on November 25, which commented on a salary increase for Xibei employees, suggesting that Xibei is a top player in the Chinese restaurant industry. This post was perceived as a provocation, leading to Luo Yonghao's response [1][2]. - Luo Yonghao criticized Hua Shan's comments and threatened to release a recording if Hua Shan did not clarify his statements. This created a buzz on social media, with various related topics trending [2]. Group 2: Financial and Business Implications - Hua Yu Hua has been a long-term consultant for Xibei since 2013, earning over 60 million yuan in consulting fees and aiming to generate 100 million yuan in the next decade. This high-fee model has drawn criticism from Luo Yonghao, who labeled the firm as "brand assassins" [3]. - The ongoing conflict has implications for the public relations industry, as Luo Yonghao's remarks suggest that the reputation of Hua Yu Hua could diminish if the situation is not resolved favorably [1][3].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing public relations conflict between Xi Bei and marketing firm Hua Yu Hua highlights the complexities of brand management and public perception in the Chinese restaurant industry, with significant implications for both parties involved [1][9][29]. Group 1: Conflict Overview - Hua Yu Hua's founder, Hua Shan, publicly defended Xi Bei, calling it the "ceiling of the Chinese catering industry," while suggesting it was unfairly targeted in a "network of black and white" [1][9]. - This statement reignited tensions with entrepreneur Luo Yonghao, who challenged Hua Shan to clarify his comments and threatened to release recordings if no apology was made [3][4]. - The conflict is not new; previous disputes have occurred, including a notable incident in September 2025 regarding Xi Bei's pricing strategies for pre-made dishes [5][6]. Group 2: Marketing Firm's Reputation - Hua Yu Hua is known for its high consulting fees, having received over 600 million yuan from Xi Bei over ten years, and is recognized for its unique marketing approach that blends traditional culture with modern branding [15][16]. - Despite past successes, including Xi Bei's growth from 1.6 billion yuan in revenue in 2013 to 6.2 billion yuan in 2019, the firm has faced criticism for its design choices and marketing strategies [16][29]. - Hua Yu Hua's controversial designs have drawn public backlash, with some branding efforts labeled as "ugly" or "offensive," raising questions about the effectiveness of their marketing philosophy [18][19]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Challenges - The associated company, Du Ke Culture, has experienced declining revenues since its IPO in July 2021, with figures dropping from 519 million yuan in 2021 to 168 million yuan in the first half of 2025 [24][28]. - The decline in Du Ke Culture's performance has been compounded by significant stock sell-offs by executives, totaling over 170 million yuan, raising concerns about the company's financial health and governance [28][29]. - The duality of Hua Yu Hua's achievements and controversies reflects the challenges faced by consulting firms in maintaining credibility and trust in a rapidly evolving market [29][30].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the relationship between the consulting company Hua Yu Hua and its major client, Xibei, highlighting the successes and failures of their collaboration, as well as the broader implications for the consulting industry in China [4][6][28]. Group 1: Relationship with Xibei - Xibei is the most important client for Hua Yu Hua, generating significant revenue and helping the company expand into the restaurant industry [8]. - Hua Yu Hua's marketing strategies for Xibei included creating the "I love 莜" symbol, which was derived from the famous "I love New York" phrase, but its effectiveness is questioned as Xibei rebranded and dropped the "莜面村" name [6][9]. - The consulting firm has been credited with various marketing initiatives, but many of these were actually inspired by Xibei's founder, who had a strong influence on the brand's direction [10][11]. Group 2: Marketing Strategies and Their Effectiveness - Hua Yu Hua's approach to branding often involves leveraging cultural references, but the actual impact of their strategies on client success is debated [10][16]. - The article notes that while Hua Yu Hua has had some successful campaigns, such as the children's menu at Xibei, these were often based on insights from the client rather than the consulting firm's strategies [10][11]. - The firm has been involved in numerous marketing campaigns, but the results have varied significantly, with some clients experiencing growth while others have failed despite the same consulting strategies [17][20]. Group 3: Broader Industry Implications - The article highlights that Hua Yu Hua's success is often tied to the existing strength of its clients, suggesting that the firm's strategies may not be universally applicable [28]. - Several case studies of failed collaborations, such as with brands like "老娘舅" and "傣妹火锅," illustrate that relying solely on marketing symbols without addressing core business issues can lead to failure [17][19]. - The consulting firm's standardized approach to service delivery may overlook the unique challenges faced by different industries, leading to diminishing returns on their marketing strategies [28].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unique business model and success of Huayuhua, a marketing consulting company in China, which charges a high consulting fee starting at 6 million and has gained significant attention and controversy in the industry [3][30]. Company Overview - Huayuhua is described as "China's most mysterious marketing company," known for its high consulting fees and controversial design aesthetics [3][32]. - The company has fewer than 200 employees and generates over 300 million in annual revenue, which is more than three times the industry average per employee [5][6]. - Founded by brothers Huashan and Huanan, Huayuhua has developed a unique "super symbol" theory that has contributed to its success [8][16]. Business Model and Strategy - Huayuhua's pricing strategy is a point of contention, with a flat fee of 6 million regardless of client size, which Huashan believes signals transparency and value [33]. - The company emphasizes that its design philosophy prioritizes sales and marketing effectiveness over traditional aesthetic considerations, leading to criticism of its design as "low" or lacking in sophistication [31][36]. - Huayuhua invests 10% of its revenue in advertising, believing that consistent advertising is crucial for brand recognition [30]. Key Theories and Methodologies - The "super symbol" theory posits that effective brand marketing involves extracting recognizable cultural symbols from a shared cultural heritage rather than creating entirely new concepts [21][28]. - The company applies this theory through practical methods, such as the "fill-in-the-blank" approach in advertising slogans, exemplified by the successful campaign for Hanting Hotels [22][24]. - Huayuhua's collaboration with brands like Mixue Ice City demonstrates the effectiveness of the "super symbol" theory in transforming brand identity and market reach [26][27]. Controversies and Criticisms - The company has faced ongoing criticism regarding its design style, with detractors labeling it as simplistic and lacking artistic merit [32][36]. - Recent controversies include accusations of design similarities between Huayuhua's logos and those of established international brands, raising questions about originality [38]. - Despite the criticisms, Huashan maintains a strong belief in the company's methodologies and the effectiveness of its branding strategies [36].