Core Viewpoint - The debate surrounding pre-prepared meals in the restaurant industry highlights the tension between industrialized food products and traditional hand-crafted meals, with the expectation that pre-prepared meals will continue to evolve and gain popularity despite criticisms [1]. Group 1: Industry Trends - A significant majority of restaurants, approximately 90%, utilize pre-prepared meals across various categories, driven by the need for quick service, cost control, and simplified kitchen operations [4]. - The industrialization of the restaurant sector has led to a loss of traditional cooking methods and personalization, as consumers increasingly favor convenience over authenticity [4]. - The willingness of consumers to pay a premium for fresh, hand-crafted meals is limited, particularly in China, where labor supply dynamics and economic conditions affect service pricing [4][6]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The prevalence of pre-prepared meals has created a market where many establishments charge hand-crafted prices for industrial products, leading to consumer dissatisfaction [4]. - The restaurant industry's low profit margins raise questions about the effectiveness of current pricing strategies and the potential for differentiation in a market dominated by industrialized offerings [6][7]. - The high turnover rate of restaurant staff necessitates the use of standardized, pre-prepared products, further entrenching industrialization within the sector [7]. Group 3: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are often unaware of the quality differences between pre-prepared and freshly made meals, complicating their purchasing decisions and leading to a reliance on lower-cost industrial products [4][6]. - The perception of value in dining experiences is evolving, particularly among younger generations in urban areas, who are increasingly willing to pay for differentiated, quality offerings [7].