宗馥莉的继承之战

Core Viewpoint - The control of Wahaha by Zong Fuli remains unstable, facing a significant challenge due to a sudden inheritance dispute involving 35 billion RMB, which could shake the financial foundation and family control of the company [3][5][6]. Group 1: Inheritance Dispute - An inheritance dispute has erupted, with three individuals claiming to be the illegitimate children of Zong Qinghou, initiating lawsuits in both Hong Kong and Hangzhou [4][5]. - The plaintiffs are seeking to reclaim $2.1 billion in offshore trust assets and to divide Zong Qinghou's 29.4% stake in Wahaha Group, with the total disputed amount reaching 35 billion RMB [5][6]. - If the plaintiffs succeed, the ownership structure of Wahaha could shift from a balance of state capital, employee shareholding, and Zong Fuli to a more complex arrangement involving multiple heirs, potentially leading to governance turmoil [6][10]. Group 2: Zong Fuli's Challenges - Zong Fuli has faced multiple crises since taking over Wahaha, including factory shutdowns and disputes over shareholding, indicating a strategic shift towards the Hongsheng system [9][12]. - The current shareholding structure consists of 46% state-owned shares, 29.4% held by the Zong family, and 24.6% by employee shareholding, which was maintained under Zong Qinghou's leadership [10][16]. - Zong Fuli's management style contrasts with her father's, focusing on institutional reforms that have led to dissatisfaction among long-time employees, complicating her leadership transition [22][24]. Group 3: The Role of Hongsheng Group - Zong Fuli's control over Wahaha is bolstered by her leadership of Hongsheng Beverage Group, which has become a key player in Wahaha's production and distribution [32][35]. - Hongsheng Group operates independently from Wahaha, allowing Zong Fuli to maintain significant influence over production and profit channels, despite the ongoing disputes [33][34]. - Recent actions to replace Wahaha's core departments with personnel from Hongsheng indicate a strategic pivot towards consolidating power within the Hongsheng framework [38][42]. Group 4: Brand Control and Future Implications - Despite Zong Fuli's control over production, the Wahaha brand remains under the group's ownership, which could limit her operational flexibility if disputes escalate [44][45]. - Attempts to transfer Wahaha trademarks to her controlled entities have been halted by state capital, reflecting a lack of trust in her management of complex interests [48][54]. - The ongoing inheritance dispute and control crisis represent the most significant challenge Zong Fuli has faced since taking the helm, with implications for both her future and the brand's trajectory [56][57].