In a troubling incident for the famed hotpot chain Haidilao, over 4,000 diners are set to receive compensation after two teenagers engaged in a shocking act at one of its Shanghai locations. The teenagers, aged 17, were filmed urinating into a hotpot broth while dining in a private setting just last month. The video quickly spread across social media platforms, capturing widespread attention and outrage.
Authorities swiftly detained the intoxicated teens following the occurrence, but fortunately, there is no indication that any diners consumed the contaminated broth. Expressing deep remorse, Haidilao has committed to replacing all equipment related to the affected hotpot and has undertaken extensive disinfection of other utensils in the restaurant.
The incident, which transpired in late February, only came to the management's knowledge a few days later, coinciding with the viral spread of the concerning video. In a statement, the restaurant acknowledged that the staff on duty had failed in their responsibility to oversee customer behavior effectively.
The company further outlined that they took a week to identify the specific restaurant involved due to the number of outlets in Shanghai. In response to the ordeal, Haidilao indicated that customers who dined at the establishment between February 24 and March 8 would receive a full refund, in addition to a cash compensation amounting to ten times their bill.
Since its inception in Jianyang, Sichuan province, Haidilao has seen rapid growth, now boasting over 1,000 global locations. Renowned for its exceptional customer service and a family-friendly dining experience—complete with manicures for women and candy floss for children—this incident strikes a jarring note for the company.
