Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the current trends in the franchise market, highlighting a shift from rapid expansion to a focus on sustainability and profitability in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the context of the recent franchise exhibition [5]. Group 1: Decline in Beverage Franchise Participation - The number of beverage brands, particularly tea and coffee, participating in exhibitions has significantly decreased, with only four tea brands present compared to nearly fifteen in previous events [7]. - This decline reflects the tea industry's transition from rapid growth to a phase of deep adjustment, as competition intensifies and market saturation increases [8]. - Franchisees are facing challenges such as reduced customer dine-in rates and increased operational costs, leading some to exit the tea beverage sector altogether [10][11]. Group 2: Stability in Snack and Fast Food Franchises - In contrast to the beverage sector, snack and fast food franchises remain dominant, accounting for over 50% of exhibitors, with average customer prices between 15-30 yuan and investment returns expected within 12-18 months [13]. - The snack and fast food sector is characterized by its essential demand and high cost-effectiveness, with a market size projected to exceed one trillion yuan in 2024, growing by 7.5% year-on-year [13]. - Many franchisees are shifting from high-investment sectors like hot pot and barbecue to snack and fast food for more stable returns [16]. Group 3: Rise of Affordable Self-Service Barbecue - A noticeable trend is the emergence of affordable self-service barbecue brands, which have gained popularity due to the rising "value-for-money" consumption mindset [18][19]. - Despite the growing interest, self-service barbecue faces operational challenges, including limited profit margins and high demands for effective cost management [20][21]. Group 4: Decreasing Brand Worship - There is a diminishing trend of franchisees being attracted solely by well-known brands, as the perception that a big brand guarantees success is being challenged [24][25]. - Higher initial investments associated with top brands are leading franchisees to consider alternative, less costly options that offer quicker returns and greater operational flexibility [26]. Group 5: Cost Reduction Strategies - Many brands are adopting strategies to lower initial investment costs for franchisees, such as allowing self-renovation and reusing equipment, which can save over 200,000 yuan in setup costs [27][29]. - The traditional model of high upfront franchise fees is being replaced by more flexible arrangements, focusing on revenue sharing and stable supply chain profits [29]. Conclusion - The franchise market is shifting towards a more calculated approach, prioritizing the sustainability of individual stores and realistic return timelines over impulsive investments and rapid expansion [31].

Group 1 - The franchise exhibition serves as an important window for entrepreneurs to observe industry trends and seek investment opportunities [1] - The number of exhibitors in the beverage sector, particularly tea and coffee brands, has significantly decreased, reflecting a shift from rapid expansion to deep adjustment in the tea beverage industry [2][4] - Major tea brands are tightening policies, with some franchisees choosing to exit the tea beverage sector due to high competition and low profitability [8][10] Group 2 - In contrast to the contraction in the beverage sector, the snack and fast food segment remains dominant, accounting for over 50% of exhibitors, with a focus on low investment and quick returns [11][12] - The snack and fast food market is projected to exceed 1 trillion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth of 7.5%, making it the second-fastest growing segment in the restaurant industry [13] - Many franchisees are shifting from high-investment categories like hot pot and tea beverages to the snack and fast food sector for more stable returns [17][19] Group 3 - A noticeable trend at the exhibition is the rise of affordable self-service barbecue brands, driven by the growing "value-for-money" consumption mindset [20][22] - The self-service barbecue segment has seen a significant increase in popularity, with related search terms on social media platforms rising by 115.51% year-on-year [23] - However, operational challenges exist, including high food waste and the need for stable customer flow, which can impact profitability [25][28] Group 4 - The perception of "brand worship" is diminishing, with franchisees no longer willing to pay a premium for well-known brands, recognizing that a big name does not guarantee profitability [29][31] - High initial investments associated with major brands are leading franchisees to consider alternative, lower-cost options that offer quicker returns and greater operational flexibility [32][34] Group 5 - There is a growing consensus among brands to reduce initial investment costs for franchisees, with many adopting strategies to lower franchise fees and support the reuse of existing equipment [35][37] - Flexible fee structures are emerging, with some brands significantly reducing upfront franchise fees and focusing on revenue-sharing models [39][40] - The overall market trend is shifting from impulsive investments to calculated operations, emphasizing the sustainability and profitability of individual stores [42]