Core Viewpoint - The salad brand "Salad Shike" is facing a comprehensive trust crisis, marked by unpaid wages, delayed refunds to franchisees, and a significant operational shutdown of its smart vending machines, which were once a key part of its business model [1][7][10]. Group 1: Company Background - Salad Shike, established in 2020, gained popularity with its self-service vending machine model for ready-made salads and Chinese dishes, achieving over 100 million yuan in financing and signing Jay Chou as a brand ambassador [2][4]. - The brand's product offerings include various salads and fast food items, maintaining an average price point of around 15 yuan, emphasizing high cost-performance [2]. Group 2: Operational Crisis - Since March 2023, Salad Shike has been embroiled in multiple debt disputes, facing claims from franchisees, employees, consumers, and suppliers, leading to a deteriorating operational status [7]. - Employees have reported significant delays in salary payments, with some waiting up to nine months, and many have taken legal action without substantial progress [8]. - Customers have expressed frustration over unrefunded balances on their prepaid cards, with many vending machines reported as out of service, indicating a complete operational halt [10]. Group 3: Franchisee Issues - Franchisees have been particularly hard hit, with reports of delayed refunds exceeding eight months and some taking legal action against the company [11]. - The company has also failed to meet its financial obligations to suppliers and landlords, raising concerns about its operational integrity and financial health [11]. Group 4: Bankruptcy and Legal Actions - Salad Shike's parent company is currently facing bankruptcy proceedings, indicating a severe financial crisis that has escalated to judicial intervention [15]. - The founder has been publicly listed for enforcement by the court due to related debt disputes, suggesting potential asset concealment or evasion [15]. Group 5: Business Model Viability - The self-service vending machine model, while innovative, has faced criticism for its lack of convenience compared to delivery services and in-store dining, limiting its appeal [16][17]. - The reliance on pre-packaged meals has led to consumer skepticism regarding freshness and quality, further complicating the brand's market position [20][22]. - The operational structure of the vending model struggles to balance costs, demand, and product variety, leading to high waste rates and low consumer engagement [24][26][27]. Group 6: Industry Implications - The downfall of Salad Shike serves as a cautionary tale for the food and beverage industry, highlighting the necessity for business models to create genuine consumer value and maintain operational balance [28].