Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent developments surrounding the resignation of Zong Fuli from Wahaha Group and her decision to launch her own brand "Wawa Xiaozong," indicating a shift in strategy and potential market competition in the beverage industry [1][2][10]. Group 1: Resignation and Brand Launch - Zong Fuli resigned from her positions at Wahaha Group on September 12, 2023, and has since established a new brand "Wawa Xiaozong," which has gained 6,000 followers on Weibo shortly after its certification [1][2]. - The new brand "Wawa Xiaozong" is set to enter the sugar-free tea market, with its first product priced at 4 yuan, reflecting a continuation of Zong Fuli's strategy to target younger consumers [5][6][8]. - The decision to create "Wawa Xiaozong" stems from compliance issues regarding the use of the Wahaha trademark, leading to a strategic pivot for Zong Fuli [1][8]. Group 2: Market Competition and Challenges - The sugar-free tea market is highly competitive, with established brands like Nongfu Spring, Coca-Cola, and others already present, posing significant challenges for the new brand [8][10]. - Analysts suggest that while Zong Fuli has a strong vision, she may underestimate the fierce competition in the Chinese beverage industry, which could impact the success of "Wawa Xiaozong" [10][14]. - The transition from brand recognition to consumer acceptance is expected to be a lengthy process, and securing distributors may prove difficult due to previous tensions between Zong Fuli and distributors [14]. Group 3: Brand Development and Future Outlook - The "Wawa Xiaozong" brand has already applied for numerous trademarks across various categories, indicating a broad vision for future product offerings [9][10]. - The production capabilities of Hongsheng Beverage Group, a subsidiary of Wahaha, provide a solid foundation for the new brand's product development [13]. - The timeline for establishing "Wawa Xiaozong" in the market is projected to take at least six months, with the need for strategic planning to ensure successful market entry and consumer engagement [14].

Group 1 - The article highlights the life and achievements of Wu Qingliang, the founder of the Wu Nande Group, who passed away at the age of 98, and emphasizes his significant contributions to the paint industry, particularly as the father of Nippon Paint [1] - Wu Qingliang built a business empire from scratch, becoming the richest person in Singapore with a wealth exceeding 140 billion RMB, and was known for his strategic acquisitions, including a major purchase of a century-old Japanese conglomerate [1][68] - The article discusses the long-standing relationship and competition between Wu Qingliang's family and Nippon Paint Holdings, detailing the complex history of their partnership and eventual control over the company [3][19][30] Group 2 - Wu Qingliang's journey began in 1950 when he traveled to Japan to seek a partnership with Nippon Paint, which led to the establishment of a joint venture in Singapore [4][9] - The establishment of the Lisheng Group in 1962 marked a significant turning point, as Wu Qingliang gained control over 60% of the company, allowing him to expand into Southeast Asian markets [10][12] - The article outlines Wu Qingliang's strategic focus on the paint industry, emphasizing his decision to divest from other businesses to concentrate resources on developing the Nippon brand in China after the country opened up [50][62][66] Group 3 - The article notes that by 2021, the Nippon Group achieved revenues of $8.642 billion, ranking fourth in the global paint industry, with a potential to surpass AkzoNobel in the near future [67] - Wu Qingliang's family now holds over 50% of Nippon Paint Holdings, solidifying their control and enhancing the company's market position [30][68] - The narrative concludes with Wu Qingliang's philanthropic efforts in his hometown, reflecting his desire to leave a positive legacy [69]