Core Points - The sudden passing of Zhao Han, co-founder of Yunhaiyao, at the age of 40 due to a heart attack has left the industry in shock and mourning [3][4][14] - Yunhaiyao, founded in 2014, has grown into a leading chain restaurant brand specializing in Yunnan cuisine, with 138 stores and annual sales exceeding 1 billion yuan [5][16] Company Overview - Yunhaiyao was established in 2014 and has become a prominent player in the Chinese dining market, known for its healthy and affordable Yunnan dishes [5][16] - The brand has expanded to 138 direct-operated stores across 29 cities, primarily located in major shopping centers [16] - Signature dishes include classic Yunnan specialties such as "Qiguo Chicken" and "Stir-fried Matsutake" [16] Leadership Transition - Following Zhao Han's death, Zhu Haiqin has taken over as the new chairman and CEO of Yunhaiyao, indicating a shift in leadership [9] - Zhao Han had been the legal representative of the company from April 2014 until December 2024, when the board was restructured [9] Financial Performance - Yunhaiyao has achieved significant financial milestones, with annual sales surpassing 1 billion yuan and a rapid expansion strategy that began in 2013 [15][16] - The company has received early-stage investments from notable firms such as Sequoia Capital and Julei Capital, although specific funding amounts have not been disclosed [16] Challenges and Controversies - The company faced a food safety scandal in 2024 when a mass food poisoning incident occurred in Singapore, leading to legal repercussions and a fine [18][20] - There have been multiple complaints regarding food safety, highlighting ongoing management challenges within the company [20][22] Industry Context - Zhao Han's unexpected death has raised awareness about health issues among entrepreneurs, with statistics indicating a concerning trend in cardiovascular diseases among business leaders in China [22]

Core Points - Zhao Han, the founder and chairman of the well-known restaurant chain Yunhaiyao, passed away due to a sudden heart attack at the age of 40 [1][4] - The official statement from Yunhaiyao confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow and highlighting the pressures Zhao faced in the restaurant industry [1] - Zhao Han was instrumental in establishing Yunhaiyao and expanding its brand presence, including international ventures [5] Company Overview - Yunhaiyao was co-founded by Zhao Han and three other individuals in October 2009, with the first restaurant opening in Beijing [5] - The brand focuses on Yunnan cuisine, with the name reflecting its origins and culinary aspirations [5] - Under Zhao's leadership, Yunhaiyao became a leading chain in Yunnan cuisine, launching several sub-brands [5] Investment and Growth - In 2014, Yunhaiyao received significant investment from Sequoia Capital and Julin Capital, marking a pivotal moment in its growth [5] - The company relocated its registration back to Kunming in the same year and opened its first restaurant in Kunming in November 2017 [5] - Zhao Han expanded the brand internationally, opening a restaurant in Singapore in 2019, with a third location established in September 2020 [5] Leadership Transition - Zhao Han was set to fully exit management of Yunhaiyao by the end of 2024, with Zhu Haiqin appointed as the new chairman and CEO in February 2025 [5]

Core Viewpoint - Zhao Han, the chairman of Yunhai Yao, passed away on September 18, 2025, at the age of 40 due to illness, marking a significant loss for the company and the industry [2]. Company Overview - Zhao Han was born on July 1, 1985, and graduated from Renmin University of China. In 2009, he co-founded Yunhai Yao with his cousin and friends, successfully promoting Yunnan cuisine nationwide and earning accolades such as the "Xing Dian Talent Award" [4]. - Yunhai Yao is dedicated to providing delicious Yunnan food and showcasing the colorful culinary culture of the region. The brand emphasizes light and fresh flavors, focusing on nourishing dishes [5]. Business Expansion - The first Yunhai Yao restaurant opened in Beijing and initially faced significant losses, with daily losses reaching 5,000 to 6,000 yuan. However, the second location in Zhongguancun quickly turned profitable within the first month by capitalizing on shopping center opportunities [6]. - Over the past decade, Yunhai Yao has experienced rapid expansion, receiving investments from Sequoia Capital and Julin Capital. The brand now operates over 200 stores across three countries and 29 cities, firmly establishing its presence in key urban areas such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. The annual revenue has surpassed 1 billion yuan [6]. New Brand Launch - In 2015, Zhao Han's team launched a fast-food brand called "Dao Xiaoman Half Chicken Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles," further diversifying the company's offerings [7]. Corporate Structure - Yunhai Yao is fully owned by Yunnan Yunhai Yao Catering Management Co., Ltd., with Zhao Han previously serving as the chairman until December 27, 2024 [9][11]. - Zhao Han was associated with over 40 enterprises, with 21 still active, covering various sectors including catering, investment, and corporate management [11].

Core Points - Zhao Han, the founder and chairman of the restaurant brand Yunhaiyao, passed away at the age of 40 due to illness on September 18, 2025 [1] - Zhao Han had been involved in the restaurant industry for nearly 20 years and co-founded Yunhaiyao in 2008 with a team of three others [2] - Under Zhao Han's leadership, Yunhaiyao expanded to 143 stores across 29 cities in China by July 2025, with a focus on direct operation and a significant presence in shopping malls [3] Company Overview - Yunhaiyao was established in 2008 by Zhao Han and his team, which included his cousin and friends, focusing on Yunnan cuisine [2] - The company has developed into a leading chain in Yunnan cuisine, launching multiple brands such as Yunhaiyao Qiguo Chicken and Dao Xiaoman Half Chicken Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles [3] - As of July 2025, Yunhaiyao has also ventured into international markets, opening five stores in Singapore since 2019 [3] Industry Context - The restaurant industry has faced significant challenges, particularly during the pandemic, which led to a complete drop in revenue for some establishments [3]