BUSINESS

Exclusive: Wahaha Heiress Steps Down Amid Trademark Rift　

Published: Oct. 10, 2025 11:49 p.m. GMT+8, Updated: Oct. 11, 2025 12:44 a.m.

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Zong Fuli

Zong Fuli, daughter of the late Wahaha Group founder Zong Qinghou, has stepped down from her leadership roles at the beverage giant, as a growing trademark conflict adds further instability to the company.

Wahaha confirmed to Caixin that Zong tendered her resignation as the company’s legal representative, director and chairwoman on Sept. 12. Her departure was formally approved by shareholders and the board of directors shortly before China’s National Day holiday.

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Zong Fuli resigned as Wahaha’s legal representative, director, and chairwoman amid a trademark dispute following her transfer of Wahaha assets to her private firm, Hongsheng.
The conflict intensified after allegations that Zong used Wahaha’s brand improperly and began building her own “Wa Xiao Zong” brand.
Wahaha faces instability after Zong Qinghou’s death, inheritance disputes, and ongoing power struggles, though Zong Fuli retains board allies.

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Who’s Who

Wahaha Group: Wahaha Group is a beverage giant that has faced instability due to a trademark conflict and an inheritance dispute since its founder's death. Zong Fuli, the founder's daughter, has stepped down from her leadership roles amid allegations she improperly used Wahaha's brand for her personal venture, "Wa Xiao Zong." This highlights a power struggle for control over the company's most valuable asset.

Hangzhou Shangcheng Investment Holding Group Co. Ltd.: Hangzhou Shangcheng Investment Holding Group Co. Ltd. is a major shareholder in Wahaha. A source connected to the group declined to comment on Zong Fuli's resignation from Wahaha, stating that details would be released in official company announcements.

Hongsheng Group Co. Ltd.: Hongsheng Group Co. Ltd. is a privately held company owned by Zong Fuli. She transferred Wahaha staff, production lines, and sales channels to Hongsheng and sold Wahaha-branded products without paying trademark fees. Hongsheng has also filed trademark applications for "Wa Xiao Zong" across various product categories.

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