Core Viewpoint - The ongoing public dispute between Luo Yonghao and Xibei's founder Jia Guolong highlights issues related to the restaurant industry's use of pre-prepared food and the implications for brand reputation and employee welfare [3][4][5]. Group 1: Luo Yonghao's Statements - Luo Yonghao claims that the failure of Smartisan Technology was not solely due to negative publicity but involved multiple factors, including internal mistakes [3][12]. - He argues that the criticism of Xibei's use of frozen broccoli is somewhat misplaced, as the cost of frozen vegetables can be higher, and he believes that Xibei's reliance on pre-prepared food is a significant issue [4][14]. - Luo expresses frustration with Xibei's public relations response during a crisis, suggesting that their failure to manage the situation effectively contributed to the ongoing conflict [4][15]. Group 2: Jia Guolong's Response - Jia Guolong asserts that Xibei's restaurants do not use pre-prepared food, emphasizing the distinction between "central kitchen prepared dishes" and "pre-packaged meals" [5][15]. - He addresses rumors about the closure of 102 Xibei locations, confirming that these closures will occur in the first quarter and that affected employees will receive their full wages [5][16]. - Jia calls for Luo Yonghao to apologize for the alleged misinformation regarding Xibei's food practices, claiming it has caused harm to the brand and the broader restaurant industry [5][20]. Group 3: Industry Implications - The controversy reflects broader trends in the restaurant industry regarding the use of pre-prepared meals, which are more prevalent in developed countries compared to China, where they are often misrepresented as freshly made dishes [5][17]. - The Chinese government's support for the development of the pre-prepared food industry aims to enhance convenience and health standards for consumers, rather than allowing restaurants to mislead customers [5][17].

Core Viewpoint - The founder of Xibei, Jia Guolong, demonstrates a mix of idealism and self-reflection in managing the company's recent challenges, including the closure of 102 stores and the impact on employees and customers [1][3][10]. Company Management and Operations - Jia Guolong emphasizes responsibility by ensuring that all employees affected by the store closures receive their salaries and that customer prepaid cards remain valid at other locations [1]. - The company has faced significant operational pressures, with the restaurant industry experiencing a slowdown in revenue growth and profit margins, as highlighted by the China Cuisine Association [5][6]. - Xibei's revenue was already in decline before the recent controversies, with Jia admitting that the company was in a downward trend as of May 2025 [6][10]. Market Challenges - The restaurant sector is witnessing increased competition and declining customer spending, leading to a general trend of lower average transaction values across the industry [5][8]. - Xibei's higher price point has made it more vulnerable to market pressures, especially as consumer expectations shift towards value for money [8]. Public Relations and Brand Image - Jia Guolong's approach to public relations has been criticized as lacking, with his insistence that Xibei does not engage in public relations efforts raising concerns about the company's image management [4][11]. - The controversy surrounding the "pre-prepared dishes" debate has damaged Xibei's brand, with customers feeling misled about the quality and freshness of ingredients [7][9]. - The company has made efforts to address these issues by reducing prices on over 30 menu items by 20% in response to public sentiment [10]. Employee Impact - The closure of stores has resulted in job losses for employees, highlighting the real-world consequences of market dynamics and operational decisions [12]. - Jia Guolong's entrepreneurial success should come with an understanding that market conditions do not guarantee positive outcomes solely based on past achievements [12][13].

Core Viewpoint - The company, Xibei, is planning to close 102 stores across more than 30 cities due to ongoing challenges, while the chairman emphasizes commitment to customer service and employee welfare during this transition [1][2][5]. Group 1: Store Closures - Xibei is set to close 102 stores, with the process expected to be completed in the first quarter [1][6]. - Different closure strategies are being considered for various locations, including outright closure, early closure, and lease negotiations [1][6]. - Employees affected by the closures will receive their wages without any deductions, and customer prepaid cards will remain valid at other locations [2][6]. Group 2: Company Commitment - The chairman asserts that Xibei has never relied on pre-prepared meals, defending the quality of their ingredients against online criticism [2][6]. - The company has maintained a strong reputation, being the top in Chinese cuisine revenue for eleven consecutive years, with employee compensation and benefits being among the best in the industry [2][6]. - Xibei serves approximately 70 million customers annually, highlighting its significant market presence [2][6]. Group 3: Personal Commitment of Leadership - The chairman has stated that he has no personal assets outside of Xibei and is fully dedicated to the company and its customers [2][5]. - He emphasizes a lifelong commitment to Xibei and his personal life, indicating a deep connection to the brand and its mission [2][5].

Core Viewpoint - The company, Xibei, is facing significant challenges, leading to the planned closure of 102 stores across more than 30 cities, while the chairman defends the brand's integrity and commitment to quality service amidst public criticism [1][2][6]. Group 1: Store Closures - Xibei plans to close 102 stores, with the closures occurring gradually throughout the first quarter [1][6]. - Different stores will have various closure strategies, including outright closure, early closure, and contract expiration [1][6]. - The company assures that all employees affected by the closures will receive their wages, and customer prepaid cards can be used at other locations or refunded immediately [1][6][7]. Group 2: Company Integrity and Commitment - The chairman emphasizes that Xibei has never relied on pre-prepared meals, countering accusations of using low-quality ingredients [2][7]. - Xibei has maintained its position as the top revenue-generating brand in Chinese cuisine for eleven consecutive years, with employee compensation and benefits being among the best in the industry [2][3][6]. - The company serves approximately 70 million customers annually, highlighting its operational scale and commitment to customer service [2][3][6]. Group 3: Personal Commitment of Leadership - The chairman expresses a personal commitment to the company, stating that he has no assets outside of Xibei and has dedicated his life to the business [4][8]. - He emphasizes the importance of continuing to strive for survival and maintaining service quality until the last moment of operation [4][8].

Core Viewpoint - The company, Xibei, is planning to close 102 stores across more than 30 cities, which has been confirmed by the chairman, Jia Guolong, amidst ongoing public criticism and challenges faced over the past 125 days [1][2][5]. Summary by Relevant Sections Store Closures - Xibei is set to close 102 stores, with the process expected to be completed in the first quarter [1][2]. - Different closure strategies are being considered for various locations, including outright closure, early closure, and lease negotiations [1]. Employee and Customer Commitments - All employees affected by the closures will receive their wages without any deductions [1][2]. - Customers with stored value cards can use them at other locations or request refunds immediately [1][2]. Company Reputation and Quality Assurance - The chairman emphasized that Xibei does not use pre-prepared meals, countering accusations of using "central kitchen prepared dishes" and "frozen organic broccoli" [2][5]. - Xibei has maintained a strong reputation in the industry, being the top in Chinese cuisine revenue for eleven consecutive years, with employee compensation above industry standards [2][5]. Future Outlook - The company aims to continue operations and fulfill customer commitments for an additional month before final closures [3][5]. - The chairman expressed a personal commitment to the company and its customers, stating that he has no other assets outside of Xibei [3][7].