Haidilao has launched a scoring system for its employees to select a successor to the chairman and founder of the company Zhang Yong, who announced plans to retire within the next 15 years.

Haidilao announced its financial results for the fiscal year of 2019 and said its expansion plan will not be affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Tables in some of the chain’s restaurants are now equipped with “Do not disturb” flip-boards. Customers who do not want to be approached too often by waiters can use the sign to fend off their insistent advances.