Core Insights - The article highlights the life and achievements of Wu Qingliang, the founder of Nippon Paint, who passed away at the age of 98, marking the end of a significant business legacy [1][22] - Wu Qingliang's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a billionaire and a prominent figure in the paint industry is emphasized, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic acumen [2][19] Company Overview - Wu Qingliang founded the Nippon brand, which has grown into a globally recognized paint brand, with its parent company, Nippon Paint Holdings, ranking as the fourth largest paint service provider worldwide [2][19] - The company has a strong financial performance, with Nippon Paint achieving over 400 billion yuan in revenue and over 42 billion yuan in net profit in the first half of 2025 [1][21] Historical Background - Wu Qingliang started his entrepreneurial journey with a small workshop producing paint in 1949, which laid the foundation for his future success [6][7] - The partnership with Japanese paint giant Nippon Paint in 1962 was pivotal, leading to the establishment of a joint venture that became the precursor to the current Nippon Paint Holdings [13][14] Market Expansion - The company strategically entered the Chinese market in the early 1990s, becoming one of the first multinational companies in the region, despite initial challenges [19][20] - Wu Qingliang's aggressive marketing strategies, including significant advertising investments, helped establish the Nippon brand in China, contributing to its growth into a leading player in the industry [20] Financial Performance - As of May 2025, Wu Qingliang's net worth reached 13 billion USD, placing him as Singapore's oldest billionaire [2][21] - Nippon Paint's parent company has shown consistent profitability, with net profits of approximately 6.166 billion yuan and 4.235 billion yuan for 2024 and the first half of 2025, respectively, reflecting year-on-year growth [21]