卖了20多年娃哈哈，突然改卖“沪小娃”，娃哈哈上海公司回应

Core Viewpoint - Shanghai Wahaha Drinking Water Co., Ltd. has launched a new brand "Hu Xiao Wa" for bottled water due to brand authorization disputes and operational challenges stemming from the ongoing inheritance dispute involving the founder's family [1][7]. Company Overview - Shanghai Wahaha Drinking Water Co., Ltd. has been operational for over 20 years without incurring losses, with last year's revenue exceeding 120 million yuan, ranking among the top three in Shanghai's bottled water market [3][7]. - The company is a subsidiary of Zhejiang Wahaha Industrial Co., Ltd., which holds a 70% stake, while internal employees own approximately 31.5% and social capital holds about 25.5% [3][4]. Brand and Trademark Issues - The "Wahaha" trademarks authorized to Shanghai Wahaha expired in 2021 and 2023, leading to the company's inability to continue using the "Wahaha" brand [7][12]. - Following the expiration, Wahaha Group requested the cessation of the use of the "Wahaha" brand, and the company has since faced challenges in communication with the group's leadership [6][12]. Legal and Operational Challenges - The Hong Kong High Court recently rejected an appeal by the defendants represented by Zong Fuli, adding to the operational difficulties faced by Shanghai Wahaha [1]. - The company has been under scrutiny from Wahaha Group's shareholders, who have expressed disapproval of the current situation and have even suggested bankruptcy proceedings [6][12]. Future Brand Strategy - Due to the trademark issues, both Zong Fuli and the macro victory group are reportedly preparing to adopt a new brand, "Wa Xiao Zong," starting from the 2026 sales year [12][13]. - The internal documents from the macro victory group indicate a strategic shift to ensure compliance and address historical legacy issues related to the brand [12][13].