Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by Zong Fuli, the former chairwoman of Wahaha Group, including her resignation from key positions and ongoing legal disputes over the inheritance of the company's founder, Zong Qinghou [4][12][14]. Group 1: Resignation and Legal Challenges - Zong Fuli resigned from her positions as the legal representative, director, and chairwoman of Wahaha Group on September 12 [4]. - Zong Fuli is facing multiple challenges, including the investigation of a core member, Yan Xuefeng, for disciplinary violations, which has raised concerns about the company's governance [5][9]. - A recent court ruling dismissed an appeal by Zong Fuli regarding a legal matter, indicating ongoing legal troubles [6][12]. Group 2: Brand and Trademark Issues - Zong Fuli is at risk of losing the use of the "Wahaha" trademark due to unresolved historical issues following the death of founder Zong Qinghou [7][16]. - Starting from the 2026 sales year, the company plans to rebrand as "Wawa Xiaozong" to mitigate legal risks associated with the "Wahaha" brand [21][22]. - The "Wahaha" trademark is currently owned by Wahaha Group, which has initiated transfer procedures for several related trademarks [16][17]. Group 3: Inheritance Disputes - The inheritance dispute involves Zong Fuli and her half-siblings, who are seeking equal rights to the family trust established by Zong Qinghou, valued at $2.1 billion [13][14]. - The court has issued a temporary injunction preventing Zong Fuli from accessing certain assets until the legal proceedings are resolved [14][28]. - The ongoing disputes have raised concerns about the brand's reputation and market position, potentially allowing competitors to capitalize on the situation [29].

Group 1 - The core issue revolves around the resignation of Zong Fuli from her positions at Wahaha Group, facing multiple challenges including legal disputes and brand usage risks [1][5][12] - Zong Fuli's resignation was confirmed on September 12, and she is now dealing with the fallout from the ongoing inheritance dispute following the death of the founder, Zong Qinghou [1][10] - The Hong Kong High Court recently rejected an appeal from Zong Fuli regarding the inheritance case, which has drawn significant public attention [2][10] Group 2 - Zong Fuli is at risk of losing the rights to use the "Wahaha" trademark, which currently belongs to Wahaha Group [3][12] - The company plans to transition to a new brand, "Wawaizong," starting from the 2026 sales year to mitigate legal risks associated with the "Wahaha" brand [4][18] - The ongoing trademark transfer process involving 387 "Wahaha" series trademarks has raised concerns about the brand's future and its impact on the company's market position [13][21] Group 3 - The internal dynamics of Wahaha Group are further complicated by the investigation of a key executive, Yan Xuefeng, for disciplinary violations, which could affect the company's operations [1][7] - Yan Xuefeng's return to work at Hongsheng Group does not guarantee that he has resolved his legal issues, indicating ongoing instability within the company [1][6] - The inheritance dispute involves significant financial stakes, with a total trust amount of $2.1 billion, and could lead to further complications for Zong Fuli and the company [10][11] Group 4 - The brand value of "Wahaha" is estimated at 91.187 billion yuan, highlighting the significant market presence and consumer loyalty built under Zong Qinghou's leadership [24][25] - The ongoing disputes and brand challenges may provide opportunities for competitors to capture market share if not resolved promptly [25]