💔 The world says goodbye to Zong Qinghou, the visionary founder of the Hangzhou Wahaha Group, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 79. Born in December 1945 in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Zong's journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of China's most celebrated entrepreneurs is nothing short of legendary.
📚 Starting his career working on farms and in school-run companies, Zong didn't step into the business world until he was 42. Taking over a small drinks distributor, he personally delivered products to schools on a tricycle! 🚲 Talk about dedication!
🍹 In just a year, his factory launched its first healthy drink for children. Despite limited funds, he boldly invested in TV commercials with a catchy slogan that echoed across China. The gamble paid off big time, bringing in a whopping 98 million yuan ($13.7 million) in sales in 1990! 💰
🌟 Over the next three decades, Wahaha grew into a household name, offering everything from tea beverages to bottled water. Even a legal battle with French giant Danone couldn't stop Zong's momentum. He emerged victorious, solidifying Wahaha's dominance in the Chinese market.
👑 Listed as China's richest person by Forbes in 2010, Zong's estimated net worth was $5.9 billion last year. But despite his wealth, he was known for his frugal lifestyle—flying economy class and spending less than 50,000 yuan a year. Respect! 🙌
\"Whether I am the richest person or not does not cause my heart to miss a beat,\" Zong once said. \"When I initially embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, it was a battle for survival. Now that I have amassed capital, I am contributing to society. Wealth, to me, is fundamentally communal—a mere figure reflecting life's value.\"
🙏 A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at Wahaha's offices in Hangzhou. Zong's legacy lives on through his daughter, Zong Fuli, who was appointed as vice chairman and general manager of Wahaha in December 2021, taking charge of daily operations.
✨ Zong Qinghou's story reminds us that it's never too late to chase your dreams and make a difference. His entrepreneurial spirit and humble approach to life will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest in peace, Zong Qinghou. 🌹
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
