Core Viewpoint - The competition between the brands "Wahaha" and "Wawa Xiaozhi" intensifies as the return of Zong Fuli to Wahaha leads to strategic moves from both sides, with "Wawa Xiaozhi" aggressively seeking distributors while "Wawa Xiaozong" is temporarily halted due to internal conflicts and external pressures [1][3][5]. Group 1: Brand Competition - Zong Fuli's return to Wahaha has sparked a rivalry with her uncle Zong Zehou, whose brand "Wawa Xiaozhi" has launched a nationwide recruitment for distributors [1][5]. - "Wawa Xiaozhi" aims to differentiate itself from Wahaha, despite having similar product lines, and claims to offer lower prices than Wahaha [6][7]. - The launch of "Wawa Xiaozhi" comes shortly after the announcement of "Wawa Xiaozong," which has been put on hold, indicating a strategic retreat amid brand conflicts [3][4]. Group 2: Financial and Operational Challenges - Wahaha's revenue target for 2024 is questioned, with a need to achieve 50 billion yuan in revenue, amidst increasing competition from brands like Nongfu Spring and Yibao [1][7]. - The macroeconomic environment and internal management issues pose significant challenges for Wahaha, particularly as it approaches year-end performance evaluations [7][8]. - The requirement for distributors to pay deposits and the signing of sales agreements for 2026 indicates a tightening of operational controls within the company [7][8]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The beverage market remains competitive, with major players like Nongfu Spring ramping up promotional activities as the shopping season approaches [7]. - Analysts suggest that the ongoing internal strife within Wahaha and the broader industry competition could hinder the brand's recovery and growth prospects [8]. - The large size of the beverage market may provide opportunities for both "Wawa Xiaozhi" and "Wawa Xiaozong," as distributors adapt to the changing landscape [8].

Core Viewpoint - A market competition surrounding the "Wahaha" brand influence has emerged amid the resignation of Zong Fuli, leading to significant shifts in the beverage market landscape [1]. Group 1: Brand Developments - The newly launched brand "Wawaozhi" is actively recruiting nationwide, with product packaging closely resembling classic Wahaha products but claims to be independent [1][2]. - "Wawaozhi" has signed over 150 clients and is rapidly building a nationwide sales network, supported by state-owned enterprises [5]. - The brand's actual control lies with Zong Zehou, who is also linked to the parent company of "Wawaozhi" [7]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The competition is intensifying as "Wawaozhi" enters the market, potentially impacting Wahaha's market share due to internal instability and brand image issues [9]. - Rival brands like Nongfu Spring and Yibao are poised to capitalize on Wahaha's challenges, filling the market gap created by Wahaha's declining sales and distributor confidence [9]. Group 3: Distributor Relations - Distributors have been informed to continue selling Wahaha products, with some receiving notifications to pay deposits for the upcoming sales year [8]. - The relationship between "Wawaozhi" and Wahaha is characterized by a clear separation, with "Wawaozhi" emphasizing its independence from the Wahaha brand [4].

Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zong Fuli has triggered a significant upheaval within the Wahaha system, leading to a competitive struggle for the brand's influence in the market, particularly with the emergence of the "Wah Xiaozhi" brand [3][4]. Group 1: Brand Developments - The newly launched "Wah Xiaozhi" brand, created by Zong Zehou, is initiating a nationwide recruitment for distributors, with product packaging closely resembling that of Wahaha, yet claiming to be independent [3][5]. - The "Wah Xiaozhi" brand is set to hold a national ordering meeting, with a minimum purchase requirement of 100,000 yuan for exclusive distribution rights in a region [6][9]. - The product formula of "Wah Xiaozhi" is reported to be identical to that of Wahaha, but at a lower price point [6][9]. Group 2: Market Positioning and Competition - The market perception of "Wah Xiaozhi" includes views of it being a copycat or imitation of Wahaha, which the brand representatives downplay, suggesting it is just another ordinary brand [8][9]. - The brand has already signed over 150 clients and is leveraging state-owned capital to quickly integrate industry resources and establish a nationwide sales network [9][10]. - The competitive landscape is shifting, with rivals like Nongfu Spring and Yibao benefiting from Wahaha's internal turmoil, leading to a decline in Wahaha's market share [13]. Group 3: Internal Dynamics and Future Outlook - The "Wah Xiaozong" brand, registered by Zong Fuli, has not yet been utilized, and existing distributors have been instructed to continue selling Wahaha products [11][12]. - The internal conflicts within Wahaha, including family disputes and leadership changes, have negatively impacted its brand image and sales, prompting recommendations for the company to stabilize its internal issues to regain market confidence [13].

Core Insights - A market competition surrounding the "Wahaha" brand influence has emerged following the resignation of Zong Fuli, leading to significant shifts within the Wahaha system [1] - The launch of "Wawaozhi" by Zong Zehou, which closely resembles Wahaha's classic products, has sparked speculation about its relationship with Wahaha, although it claims to be independent [1][4] - The beverage market is undergoing a transformation as three major brands navigate this period of change, impacting competitive dynamics [1] Company Developments - "Wawaozhi" is set to hold a national ordering meeting, with a minimum purchase requirement of 100,000 yuan for exclusive regional distribution rights [2] - The product formula of "Wawaozhi" is reported to be identical to Wahaha's, but at a lower price point [2] - The branding and packaging of "Wawaozhi" products are similar to Wahaha's, which has led to perceptions of it being a copycat brand [5] Market Positioning - "Wawaozhi" has signed over 150 clients and is leveraging state-owned capital to rapidly integrate industry resources and establish a nationwide sales network [5] - The company is backed by significant investments from state-owned enterprises, indicating strong financial support for its market entry [5] - The actual control of "Wawaozhi" lies with Zong Zehou, highlighting a familial connection to the Wahaha brand [7] Competitive Landscape - The emergence of "Wawaozhi" and the registration of "Wawazong" by Zong Fuli indicate a strategic pivot within the Wahaha ecosystem, with implications for existing distributors [8][9] - Distributors have been instructed to continue selling Wahaha products, suggesting a potential internal conflict and uncertainty regarding brand loyalty [9] - The ongoing turmoil within Wahaha, including family disputes and leadership changes, has negatively impacted its brand image and market share, benefiting competitors like Nongfu Spring and Yibao [9]

Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zong Fuli from Wahaha Group raises questions about the company's future direction and her new venture with the brand "Wah Xiaozong" [2][3][4] Group 1: Resignation Details - Zong Fuli officially resigned from her positions at Wahaha Group on September 12, 2024, after a brief tenure as the leader [2] - Her resignation was confirmed by Wahaha Group's staff and followed the necessary procedures through the shareholders' meeting and board of directors [2] - Zong Fuli's leadership began after the death of her father, Zong Qinghou, in February 2024, and she faced numerous challenges during her time [2][5] Group 2: Market Reactions and Future Plans - Zong Fuli's departure sparked significant online discussion, with speculation about her future plans, including the establishment of her own brand "Wah Xiaozong" [3][4] - A notice regarding the compliance of the "Wahaha" brand was leaked, indicating a shift to the new brand starting in the 2026 sales year [3] - Zong Fuli has founded Hongsheng Beverage Group, which is now associated with the new brand [3][4] Group 3: Company Changes and Challenges - Several Wahaha Group's affiliated companies have changed their names to include "Hongsheng," indicating a broader rebranding effort [4] - Zong Fuli's resignation is seen as a pivotal moment, allowing her to focus on her new ventures while facing challenges in market cultivation and channel development [4][5] - The company has been undergoing significant internal changes, including a restructuring of its distribution network and production lines [6] Group 4: Internal Conflicts and Market Position - Wahaha Group is currently facing internal conflicts, including shareholder disputes and legal issues with employees [5][6] - The company has been criticized for lacking new hit products in a highly competitive beverage market, where rivals are aggressively pursuing market share [7][8] - Zong Fuli's leadership had previously shown promise, with the company achieving sales figures comparable to its peak in 2014, but the competitive landscape remains challenging [7][8]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential rebranding of Wahaha to "Wah Xiaozong" starting in the 2026 sales year, highlighting the internal power struggle and strategic moves by Zong Fuli, the successor of the late founder Zong Qinghou, to gain greater control over the brand and its assets [4][10][16]. Group 1: Brand Transition - The decision to change the brand name to "Wah Xiaozong" is seen as a move to maintain compliance and possibly to assert control over the brand amidst complex ownership structures [5][10]. - The Wahaha trademark currently belongs to Wahaha Group, which has a complicated shareholding structure involving multiple stakeholders [12][11]. - Zong Fuli's attempts to transfer the trademark to her own company were halted after media exposure, indicating the challenges she faces in gaining full control [14][16]. Group 2: Distributor Concerns - A significant majority of Wahaha distributors (99%) are reportedly unwilling to adopt the new brand "Wah Xiaozong," fearing it will not sell well [28][29]. - Distributors express concerns about the viability of the new brand, citing past experiences with Zong Fuli's previous brand, KellyOne, which struggled in the market [31][36]. - The current dissatisfaction among distributors is exacerbated by high sales targets set by the company, leading to a loss of confidence in the brand [38][42]. Group 3: Financial Implications - The brand value of Wahaha is estimated at 91.187 billion yuan, making the potential shelving of the brand a significant concern for all stakeholders involved [16]. - Distributors report low profit margins, with net profits around 2% to 3%, making it difficult for them to sustain their businesses under current conditions [42][46]. - The pressure from increased sales targets has led to some distributors abandoning their roles, further destabilizing the distribution network [44][48].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the strategic decision of Wahaha to transition to a new brand "Wah Xiaozong" starting from the 2026 sales year, driven by legal compliance issues and internal power dynamics within the company following the death of its founder, Zong Qinghou [5][9][10]. Group 1: Brand Transition - Wahaha plans to replace its existing brand with "Wah Xiaozong" due to ongoing legal risks associated with the current brand [5][9]. - The decision to change the brand is seen as a move by Zong Fuli to gain greater control over the company, as she has been transferring assets and operations to her own group, Hongsheng [9][10]. - The brand "Wah Xiaozong" has already been registered under Hongsheng Beverage Group, indicating preparations for the transition [12][14]. Group 2: Dealer Resistance - A significant majority of Wahaha's dealers, approximately 99%, are expected to resist the new brand, fearing it will not sell well and lead to financial losses [10][14]. - Dealers express concerns that the transition to "Wah Xiaozong" would require them to build a new brand from scratch, which is a challenging endeavor given the established reputation of Wahaha [15][16]. - The current dissatisfaction among dealers is exacerbated by high sales targets set by the company, leading to a loss of confidence in the brand and its management [19][20]. Group 3: Financial Implications - Dealers report low profit margins, with gross profits around 10% and net profits as low as 2-3% after expenses, making it difficult to sustain their businesses [19][20]. - The pressure from increased sales targets has led to some dealers abandoning their roles, further destabilizing the distribution network [19][20]. - The article highlights that the brand's value is significant, with Wahaha's brand value estimated at 91.187 billion yuan, making the potential shelving of the brand a concern for all stakeholders [10].

Core Viewpoint - The decision to change the brand from "Wahaha" to "Wawaixiong" in 2026 is driven by legal compliance issues and a desire for greater control by the new leadership under Zong Fuli, following the death of the founder Zong Qinghou [5][10][11]. Brand Change and Its Implications - The notice regarding the brand change indicates that the company is facing legal risks due to complex historical issues, necessitating the shift to "Wawaixiong" [5][10]. - Zong Fuli's attempts to transfer the "Wahaha" trademark to her own company were halted after media exposure, highlighting the challenges in gaining full control over the brand [10][11]. - The "Wawaixiong" trademark has been registered under Hongsheng Beverage Group, with multiple categories applied for, indicating a strategic move to establish a new brand identity [13]. Dealer Sentiment and Market Challenges - A significant majority of dealers (99%) express reluctance to adopt the new brand, fearing it will not sell well and lead to financial losses [5][14]. - The transition to a new brand is seen as a daunting task, as past attempts to launch new products under different brands have not been successful, with previous products like KellyOne failing to gain traction in the market [14]. - Dealers report low profit margins, with net profits around 2-3%, leading to a lack of confidence in the brand's future under the new leadership [16][18]. Internal Struggles and Future Outlook - The internal power struggle and the legacy of Zong Qinghou's management style have created uncertainty among dealers, with many feeling overwhelmed by high sales targets and market pressures [16][18]. - Some dealers have already exited the business due to unsustainable conditions, indicating a potential crisis in the dealer network [17][18]. - The key challenge for Zong Fuli is to stabilize the dealer network and restore their confidence in the brand's future, which is critical for the company's success moving forward [19].

Core Insights - The core strategy of Wahaha, led by Zong Qinghou, is to adopt a "latecomer" approach, allowing the company to learn from competitors' successes and failures before entering the market with optimized products [1][18]. Group 1: Innovation and Market Strategy - Zong Qinghou humorously acknowledges that his success comes from being a follower rather than a pioneer, emphasizing the importance of observing the market before innovating [1][18]. - Many business philosophies stress the need for innovation, but those without practical market experience may be misled into prioritizing innovation at the risk of becoming "pioneering sacrifices" [3]. - Wahaha's success with products like AD Calcium Milk demonstrates the effectiveness of waiting to enter the market until the company has thoroughly analyzed competitors and consumer feedback [5][18]. Group 2: Case Studies of Latecomer Success - The introduction of instant Eight Treasure Porridge by Wahaha followed a similar strategy, where the company identified market opportunities and leveraged its strengths to develop a competitive product [6][18]. - Xiaomi's entry into the electric vehicle market exemplifies the benefits of a latecomer strategy, as the company capitalized on the groundwork laid by earlier entrants, avoiding initial market education costs [11][18]. - DJI's rise in the consumer drone market showcases the effectiveness of a latecomer approach, where the company focused on R&D and product optimization before launching its successful Phantom series [14][18]. Group 3: Key Factors for Success - Successful latecomers possess unique advantages, such as exceptional channel management, strong technical capabilities, and precise consumer insights, which enable them to effectively capture market opportunities [16][18]. - Zong Qinghou's business wisdom lies in the latecomer strategy, which is not merely conservative but a calculated approach to minimize trial-and-error costs while maximizing market impact [16][18].