A hotpot restaurant in Suining, Sichuan province, gained widespread praise after distributing 532,000 yuan (US$74,000) in profits among its employees during the Chinese Spring Festival. The restaurant, Qilichuan Hotpot, made headlines on January 31 when its owner, Huang Houming, emphasized that this practice was a long-standing tradition rather than a publicity stunt.
The restaurant chain operates eight branches, generating more than one million yuan (US$140,000) in revenue over the three-day holiday period. Out of its 200 employees, around 140 who worked during the festival qualified for the cash bonus. Huang explained that the profit-sharing amount was determined after deducting ingredient and labor costs, but rent and utilities were excluded from the calculation.
Profits were distributed based on each branch’s earnings, with the highest-earning manager receiving 17,900 yuan (US$2,500). Some managers received 7,000 yuan, while entry-level employees received between 600 and 700 yuan (US$80 to US$100). Huang, who once worked as a waiter at a hotpot restaurant, understands the challenges faced by his staff and aims to help them achieve financial security.
His vision extends beyond profit-sharing. He plans to expand his business and hire more employees under the principle of shared success. The restaurant also offers a unique “filial piety allowance” to support employees’ parents. This benefit, separate from legally required insurance and pensions, requires employees to transfer the funds to their parents each month, with proof of the transaction submitted to the company.
The initiative has earned widespread admiration online. Many praised Huang’s leadership, calling him a “conscientious boss” who values his employees’ hard work. One commenter noted that his generosity was far better than empty promises made by some business owners. Others expressed their best wishes for his continued success.
Huang remains committed to fostering a workplace where employees not only earn a living but also share in the company’s growth. His approach to profit-sharing and employee welfare reflects a business model that prioritizes both financial and personal well-being, setting an example for others in the industry.
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