Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing power struggle within Wahaha, focusing on the actions of Zong Fuli, who is taking significant steps to assert control over the company amidst a family inheritance dispute [3][5]. Group 1: Changes in Brand and Operations - Zong Fuli has rebranded the former Wahaha flagship store on Tmall to "Tongyuan Kang Food Specialty Store," indicating a strategic move to distance the brand from previous associations and control [8][14]. - The rebranding has raised questions among consumers about the authenticity and management of the flagship store, highlighting a potential shift in consumer trust [22][24]. - The new flagship store has a significantly smaller follower base compared to the previous one, suggesting a risky move in abandoning an established customer base [15][16]. Group 2: Major Investments and Strategic Moves - Zong Fuli has made a bold investment of 1 billion yuan in a new factory in Xi'an, aimed at consolidating Wahaha's market resources in Northwest China [28][30]. - The new facility will include multiple production lines for various beverage categories, reflecting a strategic shift towards a more diversified product offering [28][30]. - The location in Xi'an is strategically advantageous for logistics, allowing for efficient distribution across several provinces [31]. Group 3: Supply Chain and Operational Reforms - Wahaha has shut down 18 production lines in various cities, which were previously associated with a key rival in the inheritance dispute, effectively cutting off their revenue stream [37][38]. - The company has shifted production to outsourcing partners, with a fee structure that benefits Zong Fuli's controlled entities, indicating a significant restructuring of the supply chain [38][41]. - Wahaha is also revamping its distribution network by eliminating smaller distributors and consolidating operations under larger ones to streamline processes and reduce conflicts [41]. Group 4: Vision for the Future - Zong Fuli's actions are not merely about defending her position but are aimed at modernizing Wahaha and establishing a new operational framework [44][46]. - The changes reflect a broader strategy to adapt to the e-commerce landscape and improve operational efficiency, moving away from traditional business models [46][48]. - The success of these transformations will depend on market reception and the ability to navigate internal and external challenges [49].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the emergence of a new generation of female leaders in China's business landscape, particularly in family-owned enterprises, showcasing their ability to break the gender ceiling and lead significant companies [1][10]. Group 1: Prominent Female Successors - Female successors are increasingly taking the helm of billion-dollar enterprises, exemplified by figures like Zong Fuli of Wahaha, who has led the company to a revenue of 70 billion yuan, and Meng Wanzhou of Huawei, who has demonstrated resilience and strategic acumen during challenging times [3][4][5]. - Liu Chang, who took over as chairman of New Hope Group, has successfully transformed the company from a traditional feed enterprise to a food industry leader, achieving over 100 billion yuan in revenue and entering the Fortune Global 500 [6][10]. Group 2: Rise of the "90s" Female Heirs - The article notes a wave of "90s" female successors emerging in family businesses, such as Feng Jiayin of Zhongheng Design and Liu Xin of Hongtong Gas, who are equipped with international education and diverse professional backgrounds [10][11]. - These successors are characterized by their global perspective and modern management approaches, which enable them to excel in digital transformation and international business expansion [10][11]. Group 3: Changing Dynamics in Succession - The transition of leadership from male to female successors is increasingly seen as a proactive choice based on capability rather than a last resort, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes towards gender roles in business [14][15]. - The article emphasizes that modern leadership qualities such as communication skills, emotional intelligence, and systemic thinking are becoming more critical than traditional traits associated with male leadership [15][16]. Group 4: The Future of Female Leadership - The narrative suggests that the rise of female leaders is not just a trend but a necessary evolution in business, as companies recognize the value of diverse leadership styles and the unique strengths that women bring to the table [15][16]. - The article concludes with a metaphor illustrating the need for new generation leaders to navigate the complexities of modern business, indicating a hopeful outlook for the future of female leadership in China [16].