Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emergence and evolution of the "rotating model" in the restaurant industry, particularly its application in Chinese cuisine, highlighting its potential for innovation and the challenges it faces in terms of market saturation and supply chain pressures [3][19][24]. Group 1: Introduction of Rotating Model - The rotating dining concept, initially popularized by sushi restaurants, has now been adapted to various cuisines, including Chinese dishes like cold noodles and mapo tofu, with prices capped at 9.8 yuan [5][7]. - A new restaurant in Shanghai, "Red Cuisine·Play Chengdu," employs a membership system and offers a rotating dining experience, showcasing the novelty of this model in Chinese cuisine [9][11]. Group 2: Market Trends and Growth - The rotating model has gained traction in 2023, with numerous brands entering the market, indicating a trend towards low-cost, self-service dining experiences [19][23]. - Data shows that over 400 new rotating hot pot-related businesses were established in the first five months of 2025, averaging three openings per day [17]. Group 3: Challenges and Risks - The industry faces a homogenization issue, with 80% of rotating hot pot menus showing over 70% similarity, leading to a low customer repurchase rate of only 35% [29]. - Supply chain pressures are significant, as maintaining low prices and consistent quality requires robust supply chain management; disruptions can lead to negative consumer experiences [31]. Group 4: Future Prospects - The article suggests that while the rotating model may continue to evolve, true innovation must create new value rather than merely combining existing elements [43]. - The concept of "super elements" in the restaurant industry indicates a trend where various dining formats can be reimagined, but successful implementation requires more than just superficial changes [40][42].

Core Insights - The article discusses the emergence of a new dining trend in China, specifically the introduction of a rotating model for Sichuan cuisine, similar to rotating sushi and hot pot concepts [1][3][5] - The rotating dining format allows for a self-service experience with low-priced dishes, attracting consumers looking for novelty and affordability [1][3] Industry Overview - The first rotating Sichuan restaurant, "Hong Cuisine · Play Chengdu," has opened in Shanghai, offering a membership-based model with prices as low as 1.8 yuan for dishes [3][4] - The rotating model, initially popularized by sushi in the 1950s, has now expanded to various cuisines, including hot pot and other popular food categories [4][7] Market Trends - In 2023, the rotating hot pot concept gained significant traction, with over 400 new related businesses established in the first five months, averaging three openings per day [8] - The trend reflects a broader movement in the restaurant industry where various food categories are being reimagined through self-service and rotating formats, appealing to the "lonely economy" and single-person dining preferences [10][18] Challenges and Competition - The industry faces challenges such as homogenization, with 80% of rotating hot pot menus showing over 70% similarity, leading to low consumer repurchase rates [14][13] - Supply chain pressures are also a concern, as maintaining product quality and pricing requires robust supply chain management [16][15] Future Prospects - The article suggests that while the rotating model has potential for further innovation, true differentiation will require creating new value propositions beyond mere format changes [22][21]