卖水能成为首富，纯净水的暴利碾压多数制造业

Core Insights - The article highlights the remarkable wealth of Zhong Shanshan, the founder of Nongfu Spring, who has reached a net worth of 530 billion RMB, making him the richest person in China for the fourth time, with a wealth increase of 190 billion RMB [2][3] - The 2025 Hurun Rich List shows a total of 1,434 individuals with wealth exceeding 5 billion RMB, marking a 31% increase from the previous year [2] - The bottled water industry, represented by Nongfu Spring, demonstrates significant growth potential through brand building, channel innovation, and market exploration, even in a low-tech sector [2][4] Company Performance - Nongfu Spring's stock price in Hong Kong has risen by 80% over the past year, contributing to Zhong Shanshan's return to the top of the wealth rankings [2] - The company has achieved a gross margin of 72.3% and a net profit margin of 28.3%, showcasing its operational efficiency compared to traditional manufacturing sectors [3][4] - The success of Nongfu Spring is attributed to its ability to capture consumer trends and optimize its business model, allowing it to thrive without heavy investments in manufacturing [3] Industry Dynamics - The bottled water market in China benefits from a large population and increasing health awareness, with per capita annual consumption exceeding 100 liters [4] - A significant trust crisis in tap water quality has driven consumers towards bottled water, with over 80% of consumers rejecting direct consumption of tap water due to safety concerns [4] - The article emphasizes that the true potential of the bottled water business lies in addressing the urgent need for safe drinking water, reflecting broader societal changes and demands [4][5]