Core Viewpoint - The recent public relations crisis involving the company Xibei and its marketing consultant Huayi Huayi highlights the challenges and limitations of the "super symbol" marketing methodology, raising questions about the true value of marketing consulting in the industry [1][11][19] Group 1: Company Background - Huayi Huayi was founded in 2002 by brothers Hua Shan and Hua Nan, gaining recognition for its "super symbol" methodology in marketing [1][6] - The company has worked with numerous well-known clients, including Xibei, Haidilao, and Mijue Ice City, among others, many of which are publicly listed companies [6][10] Group 2: Marketing Methodology - The "super symbol" theory aims to reduce brand communication costs by utilizing familiar cultural symbols and phrases, resulting in simple and straightforward branding elements [6][8] - The design principles of Huayi Huayi emphasize large logos, bright colors, and repetitive imagery, which have proven effective in rapidly increasing brand awareness in certain market conditions [6][8] - Critics argue that the methodology is overly formulaic and lacks innovation, often resulting in designs that are perceived as unattractive or simplistic [7][8] Group 3: Client Attraction - Huayi Huayi attracts clients by promising reduced communication costs and seemingly predictable commercial outcomes, appealing to businesses seeking quick results [10] - The confidence and authoritative image of the founders, particularly Hua Shan, contribute to client trust, as they often refuse to participate in competitive bidding [10] Group 4: Recent Crisis and Implications - The crisis surrounding Xibei's "baby meal" marketing campaign revealed a significant gap between brand promises and actual product quality, leading to consumer backlash [11][13] - The failure of the "super symbol" approach in this instance serves as a cautionary tale for the consulting industry, emphasizing the need for genuine product experience and consumer trust rather than just catchy slogans [11][19] - The financial impact on Xibei has been severe, with reported daily revenue losses of 2 million to 3 million yuan [19]

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing conflict between Xibei and Luo Yonghao has taken an unexpected turn, with the founder of Hua Yu Hua expressing an apology to Luo, raising questions about the credibility of the marketing firm and its strategies [1][2][4]. Group 1: Company Background - Hua Yu Hua was founded in 2002 by brothers Hua Shan and Hua Nan, who previously struggled in various businesses before entering the media industry in 1995 [4][6]. - The company has developed a unique business model that combines strategic consulting with advertising creativity, focusing on creating memorable symbols and slogans to reduce marketing costs [8][11]. - Notable clients include Xibei, Haidilao, and other listed companies, with significant marketing campaigns that have become part of popular culture [9][12]. Group 2: Marketing Strategy and Controversies - Hua Yu Hua is known for its "hardcore" approach, refusing to participate in competitive bidding and instead offering comprehensive marketing consulting services [11][12]. - The firm has faced criticism for its aesthetic choices, with some designs labeled as "too crude" or "brainwashing," leading to public backlash [18][20]. - Legal issues have also arisen, including a fine of 1 million yuan for significant advertising problems, highlighting the risks associated with their marketing practices [23]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Challenges - Xibei's revenue grew from 1.6 billion yuan in 2013 to 6.2 billion yuan in 2019, with the number of stores expanding to nearly 500, showcasing the effectiveness of Hua Yu Hua's strategies [16]. - However, the associated company, Du Ke Culture, has seen a decline in revenue since its IPO in 2021, with figures dropping from 519 million yuan in 2021 to 168 million yuan in the first half of 2025 [27]. - The founders of Hua Yu Hua have faced scrutiny due to significant stock sales, totaling over 170 million yuan, raising concerns about the company's long-term viability [30].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing dispute between Luo Yonghao and Xibei has brought attention to the marketing consulting firm Huayi Huayi, which is associated with Xibei, highlighting issues of high consulting fees and the effectiveness of marketing strategies in the industry [1][6]. Group 1: Company Insights - Huayi Huayi, founded in 2002 by brothers Hua Shan and Hua Nan, is known for its "super symbol" theory and has helped Xibei grow from a local brand to a national dining choice [6]. - The firm has charged over 60 million yuan (approximately 8.5 million USD) for ten years of consulting services for Xibei, indicating a high annual fee of around 6 million yuan (approximately 850,000 USD) [6]. - Other notable clients of Huayi Huayi include Haidilao, Mixue Ice City, Libai, and Rant Tea, showcasing its influence in the industry [6]. Group 2: Industry Trends - The marketing consulting industry is experiencing a rise in firms like Junzhi and Qiaodong, which are competing for market share against international giants through high-profile advertising, particularly in airports [9]. - The controversy surrounding Xibei has revealed deeper issues within the consulting industry, such as an over-reliance on branding and marketing strategies at the expense of product quality and consumer experience [9]. - High consulting fees do not necessarily correlate with value delivered, especially during crisis management situations where effective advice may be lacking [9].

Core Insights - The strategic consulting industry has evolved from military strategy to helping businesses navigate complex market environments and achieve long-term goals, becoming essential for companies to differentiate themselves and capture market share in a highly competitive landscape [1] Industry Overview - The strategic consulting industry is increasingly integrating brand strategy, with local Chinese consulting firms gaining prominence alongside traditional Western brands [1] - By 2025, ten strategic consulting firms are expected to stand out, including both local and international players [2][5][11] Notable Consulting Firms - **Junzhi Consulting**: Known for its "Junzhi Strategic System" that combines Eastern wisdom with Western theories, focusing on large enterprises like Feihe Dairy and Bosideng [2][19] - **Zhuopu Consulting**: Gained recognition for its unique "Instinct Strategy" methodology, particularly in fast-moving consumer goods, with successful cases like War Horse Energy Drink [3][15] - **Hua Yu Hua Consulting**: Pioneered the "Super Symbol" theory, enhancing brand recognition through cultural elements, with clients including Chubang Soy Sauce and Xibei Yomi Village [4][20] - **McKinsey**: A global management consulting giant providing systematic strategic solutions to large state-owned and multinational enterprises [5] - **Trout**: A pioneer in positioning theory, with notable cases like JDB and K-Boxing [6] - **Ries**: Renowned for strategic positioning, aiding brands like Moutai and Great Wall Motors in their upgrades [7] - **Hejun Consulting**: A comprehensive local consulting firm utilizing a "consulting + capital + talent" model to support businesses throughout their lifecycle [8] - **BlueFocus**: A leader in digital marketing and intelligent planning [8] - **Xinyi Interactive**: Focused on providing full-value chain services in digital marketing [9] - **Guansu Consulting**: Known for its "Five Steps" methodology to help brands break through [10] Local Consulting Leaders - Zhuopu, Junzhi, and Hua Yu Hua have emerged as benchmarks in local strategic consulting due to their innovative methodologies and practical effectiveness [11]