Core Viewpoint - The closure of the Jimu Zhiya Maternity Center in Beijing highlights the financial instability and operational risks within the maternity center industry, exacerbated by a prepayment model that poses significant risks to consumers and service providers [1][8]. Company Summary - The Jimu Zhiya Maternity Center has ceased all services, with management becoming unreachable and refund agreements unfulfilled, leading to significant debts owed to consumers and staff [1][2]. - The company’s parent, Chengdu Chuangju Jimu Maternity Care Service Co., Ltd., was listed as a dishonest executor with an execution amount exceeding 4.12 million yuan [5]. - Similar incidents have occurred with other maternity centers, indicating a troubling trend of closures and financial mismanagement within the industry [5][6]. Industry Summary - The maternity center market in China has grown from under 100 billion yuan in 2017 to nearly 300 billion yuan projected for 2025, but the annual growth rate has sharply declined from 81.5% to 7.5%, signaling a shift from explosive growth to maturity [8]. - The industry faces unprecedented pressure, with even leading companies experiencing financial difficulties and operational challenges, as seen with companies like Saint Bella and Aidi Gong [6][7]. - The prevalent prepayment model in the industry raises concerns about consumer protection, as many companies may not be able to fulfill their service commitments, leading to potential fraud allegations [8].

Core Insights - The prepaid system is becoming an important payment method in modern business, providing convenience for consumers and advantages for merchants [1][11]. Group 1: Basic Concept - The prepaid system allows consumers to pay a certain amount before consumption, which is then deducted during subsequent purchases. This method is common in various industries such as dining, entertainment, and retail [2]. Group 2: Enhancing Consumer Experience - The prepaid system simplifies the payment process, saving time and increasing convenience for consumers. Additionally, it often includes promotional offers like cashback and discounts, attracting more customers [3]. Group 3: Strengthening Customer Loyalty - Merchants can enhance customer loyalty through the prepaid system, as consumers are more likely to return for further purchases after preloading funds. This model increases customer retention and emotional connection to the brand [4]. Group 4: Financial Liquidity Management - The prepaid system improves cash flow for merchants by providing immediate cash upon consumer recharge, which can be utilized for other investments or operational expenses, enhancing overall financial efficiency [6]. Group 5: Reducing Payment Risks - By collecting payments in advance, the prepaid system lowers payment risks for merchants, such as credit card fraud and payment failures, ensuring revenue security and minimizing potential losses [5]. Group 6: Data Analysis and User Profiling - The prepaid system offers merchants valuable data analysis opportunities, allowing them to understand consumer preferences and behaviors better, which can inform targeted marketing strategies and optimize product offerings [9]. Group 7: Diverse Application Scenarios - The prepaid system is widely applicable across various sectors, including emerging industries like online education and fitness, where users pay in advance for services, showcasing its flexibility [10]. Group 8: Ongoing Market Trends - The prepaid system is expected to continue evolving with changing consumer habits and technological advancements, as more merchants recognize its benefits and explore its implementation through digital payment methods [11].