Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Xibei's high pricing contrasts sharply with the rising popularity of pre-made dishes, leading to consumer confusion about the value of a bowl of noodles priced at several tens of yuan [1][2] Pricing Logic - Xibei's pricing strategy is based on a combination of cost reduction and brand premium, with prices consistently higher than similar Northwest cuisine restaurants, such as 30-40 yuan for a bowl of noodles and over 20 yuan for a dish of yellow steamed bread [1][2] - The company claims its pricing reflects the use of high-quality ingredients, complex cooking processes, and the overall dining experience, emphasizing a family-friendly dining service rather than a high-end positioning [1][2] Consumer Expectations - Consumers expect a fresh, made-to-order experience when paying higher prices, rather than standardized pre-made dishes, which has led to a broader discussion about the value of pre-made meals in the context of high prices [2][3] - The financial perspective reveals that Xibei's profit margin is around 5%, raising questions about whether brand premium and supply chain efficiency justify the pricing after accounting for raw materials, labor, and rent [2][3] Trust and Quality - The controversy highlights a critical issue in the restaurant industry: high prices do not necessarily equate to high quality, and consumers expect transparency and reasonable value exchange when paying a premium for a brand [2][3] - Maintaining quality while controlling costs is essential; sacrificing quality for cost savings can erode consumer trust, which is fundamental to brand value [3][4] Future Directions - As consumers increasingly prioritize dining quality and health, non-pre-made dish models may become a key differentiator in the competitive landscape, provided that companies establish clear cost control and pricing logic [4][5]

Core Viewpoint - The discussion revolves around whether the dishes served at Xibei restaurants are considered pre-prepared meals, with the China Chain Store & Franchise Association having previously provided clarity on this matter [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Insights - According to the "2022 China Chain Catering Industry Report," the use of pre-prepared meals by catering enterprises can reduce overall costs by 8% [7]. - An increasing number of catering businesses are adopting pre-prepared meals through central kitchens or partnerships with pre-prepared meal producers, with leading chain restaurants showing a high usage rate of over 80% [7]. - The rising chain rate in China's catering industry is expected to drive B-end chain restaurants to expand their application of pre-prepared meal products, contributing to the maturation of the entire pre-prepared meal supply chain [7]. Group 2: Company Response - In response to the allegations, Xibei's management conducted a live broadcast on September 11, showcasing the entire kitchen operation process, including ingredient handling, cooking, and serving [7]. - During the live stream, Xibei's team displayed various ingredients and packaging, including a bagged chicken soup product, asserting that these items comply with new regulations and do not fall under the category of pre-prepared meals [10]. - Xibei's founder, Jia Guolong, emphasized that according to national regulations, none of their dishes are classified as pre-prepared meals, asserting that they are 100% freshly made [10]. Group 3: Company Background - Xibei, originally known as "Xibei Youmian Village," was founded by Jia Guolong in November 2001 and is headquartered in Beijing, specializing in Chinese casual dining and Northwest cuisine [13]. - The brand traces its origins back to a small eatery in Inner Mongolia in 1988, with formal registration occurring in 1993 [13]. - Xibei plans to complete an IPO by 2026, aiming to achieve a market value exceeding 100 billion [13].