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<\/a><\/p>\nBusiness Model \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Although Sichuanese hot pot is historically mostly consumed in southeastern part of China, Hai Di Lao targets the customers in the more developed regions of the country where hot pot is more of an \u201coccasional treat\u201d, and where customers value \u201cservice\u201d as much as the food itself. On average, a diner spends approximately RMB100 to 150 ($16~$23) at the restaurant [2], making Hai Di Lao sit at the premium end of the hot pot business with 20~30% higher than the market average. It justifies its premium pricing with exceptional service, fresh ingredients, and an overall pleasing customer experience. All these three competitive advantages are effectively supported by its operating model. At the same time, the high margins gives the company the resources to operate in its unique way.<\/p>\n Service Beyond Imaginations<\/strong><\/p>\n Hai Di Lao boasts itself for providing customer services beyond a typical Chinese diner\u2019s expectations, even when the patrons are waiting. The chain invests heavily in its waiting areas. Unlike most hot pot restaurants where waiting customers don\u2019t have seats to sit on, waiting areas at Hai Di Lao are well-decorated, and can account for 1\/3 of the total space of the restaurant[6]. It also provides WIFI, manicure\/shoeshine\/hand massage services, board games, and a variety of snacks and drinks, all for free [3]! This unrivaled waiting experience created significant amount of buzz for the restaurant among young diners, and received critically good feedback given that hot pot is a type of food for a group of families and friends. The services provided at the waiting area gives the consumers a chance to relax and connect without feeling wasting times.<\/p>\n After an average wait time of 45min to 1 hour, diners sit by the hot pot table, and are given free full size aprons to prevent themselves from staining their clothing and protective baggies for their cell phones. From time to time, a server will perform the restaurant\u2019s signature Olympic-style \u201cnoodle dance\u201d, winning lots of \u201cwows\u201d from the patrons (see below).<\/p>\n<\/p>\n