Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zong Fuli as the chairman of Wahaha Group signals significant internal and external challenges for the company, including trademark issues and potential shifts in ownership dynamics [1][3][4]. Group 1: Resignation Details - Zong Fuli's resignation was confirmed on October 10, with internal sources indicating it was an open secret among employees [1][3]. - Following her resignation, Zong Fuli retains a 29.4% stake in the company, making her the second-largest shareholder [1]. - The board meeting on October 10 also appointed Xu Simin as the new general manager, leaving the chairman position vacant [3]. Group 2: Trademark Issues - The transfer of the "Wahaha" trademark has faced complications, which may have contributed to Zong Fuli's decision to resign [4][5]. - A notification indicated that due to unresolved trademark issues, the company plans to transition to a new brand, "Wawa Xiaozong," starting in the 2026 sales year [4]. - Zong Fuli's company, Hongsheng Beverage Group, has registered multiple "Wawa Xiaozong" trademarks, indicating a strategic pivot [5]. Group 3: Shareholder Dynamics - Wahaha Group operates as a mixed-ownership enterprise with complex shareholder dynamics, including state-owned, family, and employee holdings [6]. - The current ownership structure consists of 46% state ownership, 29.4% held by Zong Fuli, and 24.6% by the employee shareholding committee [6]. - Ongoing legal disputes related to inheritance and shareholder agreements have created instability within the company [6][7]. Group 4: Future Prospects - Zong Fuli aims for "Wawa Xiaozong" to achieve sales of 30 billion yuan, which is nearly 80% of Wahaha's current revenue scale [10]. - Despite the challenges, experts believe that the immediate impact on Wahaha's operations may be limited due to its established brand and market presence [8]. - However, long-term concerns about innovation and market relevance persist, especially following Zong Fuli's departure [8][9].
宗馥莉与娃哈哈的未了局
Bei Jing Shang Bao·2025-10-11 10:03