Core Insights - The recent developments surrounding Wahaha indicate a significant shift, with Zong Fuli returning to work as the president of Hongsheng Beverage Group, despite previously resigning from her roles at Wahaha Group [1][3] - Hongsheng Group has confirmed that it will continue to use the "Wahaha" brand until 2026, as communicated to distributors [1][3] - Zong Fuli's independent brand "Wawa Xiaozong" is currently on hold, while the "Wahaha" brand remains active [1] Group 1: Management Changes - Zong Fuli submitted her resignation to the board on July 24, 2024, citing questions from local government and shareholders regarding her management after the passing of Zong Qinghou [3] - A week later, on July 31, Wahaha announced that Zong Fuli would continue her management duties, but she resigned again on October 10, 2025, with no indication of returning this time [3] - The recent resignation is reportedly linked to issues with trademark usage compliance, leading her to focus on her independent brand [3][7] Group 2: Trademark and Brand Strategy - Hongsheng Beverage Group has filed numerous trademark applications for "Wawa Xiaozong" and related brands, covering various product categories [4] - The "Wawa Xiaozong" brand has launched its first product, "Nourishing Oolong Sugar-Free Tea," priced at 4 yuan, distinguishing itself from traditional Wahaha products [5] - The trademark transfer of "Wahaha" has faced challenges, as the group stated that any usage requires unanimous consent from all shareholders, complicating Zong Fuli's plans [7][8] Group 3: Historical Context and Market Implications - The ongoing trademark disputes echo past conflicts, notably the "Dava War" with Danone, which highlighted the complexities of brand ownership and control within the Wahaha ecosystem [8] - The current struggle over brand usage rights is not just a business dispute but also impacts industry dynamics and consumer sentiment, given Wahaha's established market presence [8]

Core Viewpoint - The recent developments in Wahaha's brand strategy indicate a significant reversal, with the company deciding to continue using the "Wahaha" brand for 2026, sidelining the newly introduced "Wawa Xiaozong" brand [3][4]. Group 1: Brand Strategy and Management Changes - On October 23, it was confirmed that the macro victory system will continue to use the Wahaha brand in 2026, and there will be no introduction of other brands [3]. - Following her resignation in September, Zong Fuli has returned to work at Wahaha, now acting as the president of Macro Beverage Group [5][7]. - The internal conflict leading to the creation of the "Wawa Xiaozong" brand stemmed from Zong Fuli's restructuring efforts, which created tensions regarding brand ownership and trademark usage [9][10]. Group 2: Dealer Reactions and Market Dynamics - Some dealers expressed distrust towards the "Wawa Xiaozong" brand, leading to a significant shortfall in the collection of guarantee deposits, with only 10%-20% completion compared to the previous year [12]. - Conversely, larger and long-term dealers showed loyalty to the Wahaha brand, viewing the brand transition as a normal part of business evolution [13]. - The internal communications indicated that dealers were instructed not to represent "Wawa Xiaozong," further complicating the brand's market acceptance [18]. Group 3: Historical Context and Trademark Issues - Zong Fuli's resignation was reportedly linked to issues surrounding the compliance of trademark usage, which has been a contentious point within the company [10][15]. - The Macro Group has been actively applying for trademarks related to "Wawa Xiaozong," indicating a strategic pivot towards establishing a new brand identity [15][16].

Core Viewpoint - The recent developments in Wahaha's brand strategy indicate a significant shift, with the company deciding to continue using the "Wahaha" brand for its products in 2026, effectively sidelining the newly introduced "Wawa Xiaozong" brand [1][2]. Group 1: Brand Strategy and Management Changes - On October 23, it was reported that the Hongsheng system's sales companies were notified to continue using the "Wahaha" brand in 2026, indicating a reversal of the previous decision to adopt the "Wawa Xiaozong" brand [1]. - Following her resignation, Zong Fuli has returned to work as the president of Hongsheng Beverage Group, although she previously held the positions of chairman and general manager of Wahaha Group [2]. - The internal conflicts leading to the creation of the "Wawa Xiaozong" brand stemmed from organizational changes implemented by Zong Fuli, which caused tensions regarding the ownership and use of the "Wahaha" trademark [4][5]. Group 2: Stakeholder Reactions and Market Dynamics - Some distributors expressed distrust towards the "Wawa Xiaozong" brand, leading to a significant shortfall in the collection of deposits, with many regions only achieving 10%-20% of their targets compared to the previous year [6]. - Despite the resistance from some distributors, others, particularly those with long-standing relationships with Wahaha, remain supportive of the company's direction and are willing to follow Zong Fuli's leadership [6]. - The situation reflects a normal transitional phase in brand management, where multiple brands and product lines can coexist within a company [6]. Group 3: Historical Context and Trademark Issues - Zong Fuli's resignation in September was reportedly linked to issues surrounding the compliance of the "Wahaha" trademark usage, which has been a contentious point in negotiations with major shareholders [5][7]. - The Hongsheng Group has been actively applying for trademarks related to "Wawa Xiaozong," indicating a strategic move to establish a new brand identity, although the recent announcements suggest a retreat from this strategy [7][9].

Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zong Fuli has led to a split among distributors regarding whether to continue with the "Wahaha" brand or switch to the new "Wawa Xiaozong" brand, with recent developments indicating a preference for the latter [1][4]. Group 1: Company Developments - Zong Fuli resigned from her positions at Wahaha Group on September 12, 2023, following the necessary procedures through the company's shareholder and board meetings [1]. - A notice from Hangzhou Wahaha Honghui Food and Beverage Co., Ltd. announced that starting from the 2026 sales year, the company will transition to the new brand "Wawa Xiaozong" to maintain compliance with brand usage [1]. - The new brand "Wawa Xiaozong" is under the Hongsheng Group, which was initially a contract manufacturer for Wahaha and has since expanded into a full beverage production solution provider [1]. Group 2: Distributor Reactions - Distributors have received notifications from Wahaha stating that they cannot represent "Wawa Xiaozong" without risking their Wahaha distribution qualifications [4]. - Distributors are currently evaluating which brand to support based on potential profitability, as "Wawa Xiaozong" has not yet fully launched in the market [4]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Zong Fuli's uncle, Zong Zehou, has launched a competing brand "Wawa Xiaozhi," which has begun its own recruitment activities for distributors [5]. - "Wawa Xiaozhi" offers products with similar formulations to Wahaha but at lower prices, and has already signed contracts with 153 clients, primarily in Zhejiang and other provinces [12]. - The recruitment for "Wawa Xiaozhi" does not require a deposit, and the initial purchase requirement is set at a minimum of 30,000 yuan [8].

Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zong Fuli has led to a significant shift in the distribution landscape for the Wahaha brand, with distributors now facing a choice between continuing with Wahaha or switching to the new brand "Wah Xiaozong" controlled by Zong Fuli's Hongsheng Group [1][8]. Group 1: Brand Transition - Zong Fuli resigned from her positions at Wahaha Group on September 12, 2023, and the company plans to transition to the new brand "Wah Xiaozong" starting from the 2026 sales year [1][2]. - Hongsheng Group has filed numerous trademark applications for "Wah Xiaozong" across various categories, including food and beverages, indicating a strategic expansion into multiple product lines [2]. Group 2: Distributor Dynamics - Distributors have received notifications from Wahaha prohibiting them from representing "Wah Xiaozong," threatening to revoke their Wahaha distribution rights if they do so [8]. - The competitive landscape is intensifying, with Zong Fuli's uncle, Zong Zehou, launching a competing brand "Wah Xiaozhi," which is actively recruiting distributors [8][10]. Group 3: Product Offerings - "Wah Xiaozong" has introduced its first product, a sugar-free Oolong tea priced at 4 yuan, which differentiates itself from traditional Wahaha packaging [6]. - The product line for "Wah Xiaozhi" includes a variety of items such as AD calcium milk, mineral water, and coconut water, with claims that their formulations are identical to Wahaha's but offered at lower prices [10][14].

Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zong Fuli from her positions at Wahaha and her focus on creating a new brand "Wah Xiaozong" has sparked significant attention, alongside the launch of her uncle Zong Zehou's competing brand "Wah Xiaozhi" [1][15][17]. Group 1: Brand Developments - Zong Fuli has officially resigned from her roles at Wahaha as of September 12, 2023, and is now launching her own brand "Wah Xiaozong," which has already introduced its first product, a sugar-free Oolong tea priced at 4 yuan [14][15][17]. - Zong Zehou's brand "Wah Xiaozhi" has initiated a nationwide recruitment campaign, with over 150 clients signed up, primarily in Zhejiang, Hunan, and Guizhou, and offers products at lower prices than Wahaha [1][9]. Group 2: Market Competition - The competition between "Wah Xiaozong" and "Wah Xiaozhi" is highlighted, with both brands aiming to capture market share in the beverage sector [1][5]. - The recruitment for "Wah Xiaozhi" allows agents to start with a minimum purchase of 30,000 yuan, with no deposit required, indicating a competitive entry strategy [5][9]. Group 3: Legal and Compliance Issues - The decision for Zong Fuli to create "Wah Xiaozong" stems from compliance issues regarding the use of the "Wahaha" trademark, which requires unanimous consent from all shareholders of Wahaha Group [17][19]. - Wahaha Group has been addressing historical compliance issues related to its brand usage, leading to the decision to transition to the new brand "Wah Xiaozong" starting from the 2026 sales year [19][20]. Group 4: Corporate Changes - Multiple Wahaha-related companies have undergone name changes to "Hongsheng," reflecting a shift in branding and corporate structure following the founder's passing [20]. - The establishment of Wah Xiaozhi Foods (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. in 2025, controlled by Zong Zehou, indicates a strategic move within the family to diversify brand offerings [11].

Core Viewpoint - Zong Fuli has resigned from her positions at Wahaha Group, citing non-compliance with trademark usage and plans to focus on her own brand "Wah Xiaozong" [1][5] Group 1: Resignation Details - Zong Fuli resigned from her roles as legal representative, director, and chairman of Wahaha Group on September 12, following the necessary procedures through the group’s shareholders and board meetings [1] - A new Weibo account for "Wah Xiaozong" was certified on September 30, with the account linked to Hongsheng Beverage Group, which currently has 422 followers but has not posted any content yet [1] Group 2: Brand Development - Hongsheng Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hengfeng Trading, is now associated with Zong Fuli, who serves as a director [3] - "Wah Xiaozong" has launched its first product, a sugar-free Oolong tea priced at 4 yuan, distinctly separate from traditional Wahaha branding [3] Group 3: Corporate Changes - Since September, multiple Wahaha-related companies have undergone business name changes to include "Hongsheng," with over ten companies making this transition this year [5] - Hongsheng Group was established in 2003 as a contract manufacturer for Wahaha and has since expanded into a full beverage production solution provider [5] Group 4: Trademark Applications - Hongsheng Beverage Group has submitted numerous trademark applications for "Wah Xiaozong" covering various categories, including food and beverages, with some applications already undergoing preliminary review [5] Group 5: Family Insights - Zong Zehou, Zong Fuli's uncle, commented on her resignation, suggesting that her approach to leadership and understanding of Chinese culture may have contributed to her challenges in managing Wahaha [6][8] - He emphasized that Wahaha is a brand created collectively by many, not solely by the Zong family, and highlighted the nostalgic value of the brand for the 80s and 90s generations [8]

Core Points - Zong Fuli has resigned from her positions at Wahaha Group, including legal representative, director, and chairman, effective September 12, 2023, following the necessary procedures through the group's shareholders' meeting and board of directors [1] - The resignation is reportedly due to "non-compliance" in trademark usage, as Zong Fuli plans to focus on her own brand "Wah Xiaozong" [1] - A Weibo account for "Wah Xiaozong" has been verified, with the account registered under Hongsheng Beverage Group Co., Ltd., and has 422 followers as of October 11, 2023 [1] Company Changes - Hongsheng Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hengfeng Trading Co., Ltd., with Zhu Lidan as the legal representative and general manager, while Zong Fuli serves as a director [3] - Since September, multiple Wahaha-related companies have undergone business name changes to include "Hongsheng," indicating a broader rebranding effort [5] - Over ten Wahaha subsidiaries have changed their business names to "Hongsheng" this year, including companies in various locations [5] Brand Development - "Wah Xiaozong" is a brand under Hongsheng Group, which was initially a contract manufacturer for Wahaha and transitioned to beverage production under Zong Fuli's management in 2007 [5] - The first product launched under "Wah Xiaozong" is a sugar-free Oolong tea priced at 4 yuan, distinctly packaged to differentiate from traditional Wahaha branding [3] - Hongsheng Beverage Group has submitted numerous trademark applications for "Wah Xiaozong" covering various food and beverage categories, with some applications already undergoing preliminary review [5]

Core Points - Zong Fuli has resigned from her positions as legal representative, director, and chairman of Wahaha Group as of September 12, 2024, and remains the second-largest shareholder of the company [1] - The resignation is reportedly due to "non-compliance" regarding trademark usage, leading Zong Fuli to focus on her own brand "Wah Xiaozong" [1] - "Wah Xiaozong" has launched its first product, a sugar-free Oolong tea priced at 4 yuan, distinctly separate from traditional Wahaha branding [1] Company Changes - Several Wahaha subsidiaries have recently undergone name changes, with three companies rebranded to "Hongsheng" in September 2024 [3][4] - The companies that have changed to "Hongsheng" include Nanyang Wahaha Changsheng Beverage Co., Shanxi Wahaha Changsheng Beverage Co., and Hulin Wahaha Beverage Co. [3][4] Background Information - Zong Fuli, born in January 1982, is the daughter of Wahaha founder Zong Qinghou and has held various positions within the company since 2018 [4] - In August 2024, Zong Fuli took over as the legal representative and chairman of Wahaha Group following the passing of Zong Qinghou [4] - Zong Fuli is associated with over 210 enterprises, with more than 200 currently operational, holding various leadership roles and stakes in these companies [4] Recent Developments - Zong Fuli has been in the news due to a billion-dollar inheritance dispute related to her father [5] - A key member of Wahaha, Yan Xuefeng, was recently under investigation for disciplinary issues but has since returned to work [5] - On September 26, 2024, the Hong Kong High Court rejected an appeal by Zong Fuli and others regarding a summons [5]