Core Insights - The restaurant industry is undergoing a profound transformation characterized by a dual focus on specialization ("division") and integration ("combination") to enhance efficiency and consumer experience [1][2][11] Group 1: Internal Operations - The primary value of digitalization is to make each division of labor more precise and efficient [3] - Fragmented data systems lead to decision-making challenges, as seen in the case of Xi'an Xiao Liu Catering, where diverse operations resulted in data silos and inefficiencies [4] - Manual processes in supply chain operations slow down efficiency and increase error rates, with financial departments receiving delayed data for cost control [4] - Digital systems can automate procurement and production planning, significantly reducing inventory days from 1.8 to 0.4 days, as demonstrated by Guangzhou 72 Street [4] - Mobile tools in store operations can streamline ordering and payment processes, creating a virtuous cycle of demand-driven production [4] Group 2: External Integration - A digital platform can serve as a "super connector" to integrate all external channels, addressing the issue of independent IT systems and data interoperability [6] - Establishing a unified membership and marketing center allows for the creation of 360-degree user profiles, enabling personalized marketing strategies [6] - The platform can facilitate upstream supplier connections for online collaboration and automatic reconciliation, aiming to build a diversified ecosystem in the restaurant industry [6] Group 3: Strategic Transformation - Leading restaurant companies recognize that digitalization is not just an efficiency tool but a strategic engine for transformation, shifting from experience-based to data-driven decision-making [8] - Successful digital transformation projects require partners who understand both technology and business, capable of translating operational needs into actionable system designs [8][9] - The competition in the restaurant industry has evolved from product and marketing competition to efficiency and ecosystem competition based on digitalization [11]