Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant decline in the financial performance of Quanjude, a century-old brand, with a projected net profit drop of 52.28% to 62.51% for the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, indicating a severe operational struggle [1][10]. Group 1: Financial Performance - Quanjude's net profit for 2024 was reported at 34.13 million yuan, a decrease of 43.15% year-on-year, with total revenue of 1.402 billion yuan, down 2.09% from the previous year [9]. - The company's first-quarter report for 2025 showed a revenue of 332 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 7.26%, and a net profit of only 4.21 million yuan, down 72.47% [10]. - The 2025 half-year forecast predicts a net profit of 11 to 14 million yuan, reflecting a substantial decline from the previous year [1][10]. Group 2: Brand Reputation and Consumer Perception - Quanjude's reputation has suffered, with a significant number of negative reviews highlighting a decline in food quality and service, leading to a polarized consumer perception [11][12]. - Customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of dishes, particularly the Peking duck, which has been criticized for not meeting the expectations associated with a century-old brand [12][13][20]. - The brand's historical prestige is being overshadowed by current consumer experiences, with many reminiscing about the better quality of the past [17][20]. Group 3: Diversification Efforts - In response to declining core business performance, Quanjude has attempted to diversify its offerings through multiple brands, including "Fangshan" and "Sichuan Restaurant," but these efforts have not significantly impacted overall performance [22]. - The company has also ventured into the internet space and casual dining markets, but previous attempts, such as the acquisition of Duck Brother Technology, ended in failure due to lack of profitability [23]. - Recent initiatives include launching a snack brand "Zero Research Institute" and creating a youthful IP character "Cute Duck," aimed at attracting younger consumers, although these efforts are still in the early stages and face stiff competition [26][30].