A century-old wealthy family that rose from Shanghai

The Japanese "Washoku Alliance" never dreamed that while they were still raising funds, Master Kong had already taken the initiative—announcing a further 10% price reduction for its products; at the same time, Master Kong and Nissin launched a third flavor of instant noodles—seafood ramen.

The 'Japanese Food Alliance' was dealt a heavy blow!
Tanaka Hisao said angrily, "They're insane! They're insane! Our Japanese market is huge, and this Hong Kong instant noodle company actually intends to wage a price war in Japan. How are they going to support themselves? Are they doing charity?"

The Japanese never dreamed that in their past life, they loved price wars, which led to their acquisition of the Hong Kong-based instant noodle brand "Doll Noodles." Now, the Hong Kong brand "Master Kong" is even more ruthless, operating in Japan for five years without making a profit from instant noodles, but only generating revenue through patent fees.

Of course, the key is the market. Master Kong and Nissin have joined forces to capture 40% of the Japanese market, which is terrifying.

Kenichi Matsumoto, president of Sanyo Foods, said somewhat listlessly, "Behind Master Kong and Nissin is a food and beverage group called Vitasoy, which is a subsidiary of Hong Kong's Cheung Kong Holdings, which is backed by Chen Guangliang, the world's shipping magnate and richest man in Hong Kong. Taken together, they have enough strength to wage a price war in Japan. Not only that, but the Japanese people now have a high level of recognition for Master Kong. This is firstly because it is cheap, and secondly because Master Kong is the first instant noodle brand in Japan."

Yamamoto, the managing director of Daiwa Foods, said at the time, "We have only just formed an alliance, and the other party found out about it immediately. Obviously, we did not keep our information confidential enough. More importantly, they have created a new seafood ramen product in a very short time, which fully demonstrates that they have already invested in research and development."

At that moment, a young man hurried in and whispered a few words in Tanaka Hisao's ear.

Tanaka Hisao's expression changed drastically, and he dropped the chopsticks in his hand.

"Tanaka-kun, what happened?"

"Yes, does Master Kong have something new up its sleeve?"

Hisao Tanaka then said dejectedly, "Two pieces of bad news: First, the other party lobbied the Japanese government to voluntarily relinquish its patent license in Japan, and the Ministry of International Trade and Industry will not list instant noodles as a 'national food.' As a result, public opinion has turned against Master Kong."

Since it was developed proactively and its nature is different, public opinion naturally leans towards Master Kong, the inventor of instant noodles.

"What about the other one?"

"Master Kong has announced the invention of a cup-packaged instant noodle that includes a fork, which will be launched simultaneously in the United States, Japan, and Hong Kong. This move will further emphasize the meaning of 'convenience'."

Everyone was shocked.

In such a short period of time, Master Kong has come up with one countermeasure after another, and its influence in this field has naturally continued to soar.

After a long silence, Hisao Tanaka shouted, "Everyone, we can't give up! This is our home turf! We must wage a price war with Master Kong and fight for the Japanese market!"

"Hi"

However, these words lacked a certain confidence.

In faraway America.

Firefighters in Los Angeles, USA, were putting out a fire when a group of 'volunteers' handed them cups of instant noodles while they took a break.

Under the guidance of volunteers, firefighters poured hot water from a kettle, and the cup-packaged instant noodles began to change.

"Oh my god, this is amazing! It smells so good too!"

"I can't wait to eat it, but will it really be cooked in three minutes?"

The volunteer said with a smile, "Of course! Instant noodles actually originated in Asia five years ago, but you gentlemen should be the first to try this cup-packaged instant noodles."

"Oh, that's fantastic!"

Soon, the firefighters began to enjoy the meal.

Reporters from The New York Times and The Washington Post snapped photos of the cup noodles arriving in the United States.

"Great taste! If I were on a mission, having a cup of instant noodles like this would be so convenient!"

"It's good, but a little hot. Okay, I was a bit too hasty!"

In an instant, one of the world's best advertisements was born.

Of course, instant noodles themselves are one of the top 100 inventions of this century.

It was spring again (1962).

Chen Guangliang arrived at the 12-story Vitasoy Building in Kwun Tong, where thousands of workers were busy producing food and beverages.

Many products, such as Vitasoy, soy milk powder, White Rabbit candy, Master Kong instant noodles, and Red Bull, are produced here. Of course, the Vitasoy Group also has factories in Thailand, Singapore, Japan, and other regions.

"Boss, this is a newspaper from the US from a few days ago. We copied it by telegram!" Chen Zhixing happily took out a piece of paper.

Chen Guangliang glanced at the newspaper and saw that the American newspapers gave instant noodles very good reviews, mainly highlighting their function as a "convenient food".

If Master Kong were to market its instant noodles in the US in bagged form, it would certainly have failed, because Americans don't like the hassle of eating such food; but cup noodles are different, as they are suitable for enjoying a meal on many occasions.

"Hmm, looks good! Instant noodles will become part of Vitasoy Group's global industrial strategy, your group should take this seriously!"

"Ok"

Later, Margaret reported, "Currently, the South Korean side has contacted us, hoping to import instant noodles!"

Chen Guangliang immediately asked, "What company is it?"

“It’s called Samyang Foods. It’s not very strong, so we’re asking for a 49% stake. In return, we can offer more assistance.”

This idea was good and received Chen Guangliang's approval.

Chen Guangliang then asked, "What about sales in Taiwan?"

Margaret replied, "Very good! Especially when paired with our braised egg packaging, people on the island really want to enjoy it in the evening."

Damn, I knew Taiwan had a special fondness for tea eggs.

"Yes, tea eggs and ham sausages are the perfect partners for instant noodles. In addition, if we could drain the water from vegetables and make them into vegetable packets, then a complete instant noodle recipe for the night would be created. Of course, this is a long-term improvement process, and we need to develop it step by step."

"Mr. Chen is right."

Later, Chen Guangliang visited the Red Bull factory.

This product is also very important, and it will remain an important industry for CK Asset Holdings even in the future.

Of course, it still needs to be developed step by step.

Chen Guangliang planned to enter the European and American markets in the 1970s, and he would cooperate with his third wife, Audrey Hepburn.

On this day, laughter and cheerful conversation filled a villa in Repulse Bay.

"Third Brother, we're ready! We can go kidnap the bride any minute now!"

"That's right, we're fully armed, we'll definitely snatch your bride."

"Haha, I want to join the bride-snatching too!"

Chen Wenming smiled as he watched his younger brothers Chen Wenkai, Chen Wensheng, and Chen Wenhua goofing around, and his older sister Chen Leyi join in.

For his wedding, his two younger brothers, Chan Man-shing and Chan Man-wah, who were studying in the United States, took leave to return to Hong Kong. In addition, his second elder brother, Chan Man-kam, who works in the United States, and his younger sister, Chan Lok-yee, also returned to Hong Kong to attend the wedding.

All three branches of the Chen family and their children were present, making it a very grand occasion. At this moment, Chen Wenming no longer resisted the family's arrangements, but deeply felt the importance of 'family unity'—sometimes he even examined himself, wondering if he could inherit the family business if he really married a wife his parents didn't like, and he would also be destroying the 'family unity' that had been engraved in their hearts since childhood.

"What are you trying to steal? Show some respect to your wives later, or I'll beat you all up!" Chen Wenming said deliberately.

Chen Wenkai laughed and joked, "Hey, Third Brother hasn't even married his wife yet, and he's already disowning us brothers! Everyone, let's go!"

In no time, everyone was getting along well.

It wasn't until Chen Guangliang arrived with Yan Renmei, Jiang Meiying, and Audrey Hepburn that everyone quieted down.

Chen Guangliang was in a good mood as he watched everyone's performance, especially Chen Wenming's "change of heart". After this incident, he not only worked harder, but also respected his mother Yan Renmei more and had a better understanding of his family. He had seen all these changes.

"We have a lot of guests these days, Wenjie, as their eldest brother, you should help them out!"

Chen Wenjie nodded and said, "Father, don't worry."

Although Chen Wenming's wedding was not as grand as that of his eldest brother, Chen Wenjie, it was still quite luxurious compared to the other families; the banquets would be held at the Shangri-La Hotel over three days, in batches.

Shangri-La Hotel.

Chen Wenming and his wife An Shuhui are toasting their relatives and friends.

An Shuhui is a member of a small family in Hong Kong. Yan Renmei chose her as her daughter-in-law because she had studied abroad but was also a traditional Chinese girl.

In fact, in the eyes of her father-in-law Chen Guangliang, An Shuhui was indeed better than Chen Wenming's previous girlfriends. After returning from studying in the UK, she joined the family's import and export company and was very capable.

For the Chen family, a daughter-in-law only needs to be dignified, generous, and bring good fortune to her husband; she doesn't need to be stunningly beautiful. However, the daughters-in-law's abilities are quite important.

This ability can refer to learning ability, interpersonal skills, or work ability; in short, it should be comprehensive.

At the scene, An Shuhui's parents did not show any particular joy, appearing quite composed. They did not value Chen's wealth and status; in fact, they had some concerns when the newlyweds met—whether this son-in-law would be unfaithful and whether he could accept their arrangements.

They were very worried about their daughter's marriage, which was a traditional arrangement!

So when Yan Renmei suggested giving the two young people a chance, An's parents took it in stride and told their daughter to be discerning and to simply disagree.

At that time, Chen Wenming had already compromised with his family, and since An Shuhui was indeed quite good in many ways, he appeared by An Shuhui's side as a suitor.

Chen Guangliang's children inherited their mother's looks and his intelligence, so pursuing women shouldn't be a problem; the key is sincerity.

An Shuhui agreed to marry Chen Wenming this March because he demonstrated outstanding ability and intelligence, and with the support of his parents.

Of course, she had heard about this family since she was a child; it was a legendary family, and it was somewhat of a reference point.

"Don't worry, in-laws, our family doesn't have any strict rules. We've discarded the outdated practices of ancient Chinese families. Besides, I often tell my children that marriage is not just a ceremony, but also a responsibility. So you two can rest assured that once Shuhui comes into our family, she will be our daughter, and Wenming will also have the responsibilities he should bear," Yan Renmei said to her in-laws.

An's parents could also sense that ever since they reached the point of discussing marriage, Chen Guangliang and Yan Renmei had been consistently assuring the Chen family of their "character"—that the Chen family was not looking for a tool to bear children, but rather for a suitable new family member.

Mother An finally smiled and said, "We really like Wenming, and we believe he will treat Shuhui well."

At this moment, Chen Wenming was eager to show that he had "turned over a new leaf" and sincerely said, "Father-in-law and mother-in-law, rest assured, I will definitely take on the responsibilities of a husband after marriage!"

An Shuhui held her husband's hand, and she could feel his excitement.

That evening, Chen Wenming and An Shuhui checked into a villa in Repulse Bay.

The villa was built after World War II. Before their marriage, Chen Guangliang had it renovated as their marital home.

In the bridal chamber, Chen Wenming excitedly pressed An Shuhui onto the bed and then completed their life's important event.

The next day, the couple went to the living room on the first floor and offered tea to Chen Guangliang and Yan Renmei.

Yan Renmei smiled and helped An Shuhui up, saying with satisfaction, "There aren't that many rules, as long as it's the thought that counts!"

A moment later, Chen Guangliang said, "Shuhui, now that you're married, do you still want to work? After all, having a child isn't something that can be done overnight."

An Shuhui said sincerely, "Dad, I used to manage the work over there because my father was in poor health and my younger brother was still young."

Chen Guangliang immediately understood and said, "Alright, you should finish what you start. Help your father out, and then step down when it's easier to hand over the work. To be honest, your mother was an invaluable assistant to me when she was pregnant; I couldn't live without her!"

An Shuhui immediately became curious, took Yan Renmei's arm, and asked about the past.

After all, that was Shanghai in the 1930s, full of legends.

Yan Renmei said with a smile, "Sometimes it's not that they can't live without me, but rather that the social environment is too complex."

For a moment, the family enjoyed a happy breakfast together.

A few days later, at the Global Group Building.

Chen Guangliang summoned his younger brother Chen Guangcong, his son Chen Wenming, and his nephew Chen Wenbo to his office.

At this time, the Global Group was more like a family business, with four members of the Chen family in senior positions. Of course, among the management of the Global Group, there were not only Chinese citizens with local household registration, but also many Cantonese citizens. Moreover, there were also many foreigners and Japanese people in the management of the Global Group.

"The reason I've gathered the three of you here is to tell you something: based on my investigation, British insurance companies may raise premiums for secondhand ships, though the timing is fixed. The reason is that in the past three years, Hong Kong shipowners have acquired a large number of secondhand ships, even those awaiting scrapping. We should develop a strategy in advance to address this."

Chen Guangcong said, "In that case, we should gradually retire some of our old secondhand ships. The shipping situation is good now, and we can still sell them for a decent price!"

This is a win-win solution: global shipping reduces its number of second-hand vessels, especially some old and dilapidated ones; at the same time, it can sell them at a good price, since these old and dilapidated second-hand vessels will become worthless once insurance costs increase.

Chen Guangliang's original intention was to take this opportunity to further strengthen the trade-in program.

"That works. Wenbo, you'll be in charge of this!"

"Yes, Uncle."

Later, Chen Guangliang continued, "Shipping has recovered, and the market is good. Our vessels' deadweight tonnage is also increasing rapidly. In terms of business, we can consider long-term charter contracts of three or even five years."

At this point, there were still five years until the Suez Canal closed in 1967. Chen Guangliang needed to ensure that by the spring of 1967, he would have a fleet of 5 to 6 million tons of ships, with virtually no contracts available.

By then, taking advantage of the eight-year closure of the Suez Canal, he would have expanded his fleet to 2000 million tons. That is, his fleet would have reached its peak in 1974, after which he would have gradually reduced the number of ships and brought them ashore.

In fact, during this period, Global Group consistently provided Chen Guangliang with cash flow—idle funds that could be invested in other industries. As for debt, Global Group generally only took out loans for shipbuilding and rarely borrowed from HSBC or Ping An Bank.

Chen Guangcong said, "Then our business will be even more extensive. Our business is already doing very well, and when the new ship is launched, we will be able to rent it out at a good price."

Chen Guangliang nodded, and then said to his son Chen Wenming, "For each ship, we need to consult with you before signing the contract and communicate with you in advance!"

"Yes, father"

Chen Wenming knew that his father might be controlling the lease term to maximize his profits.

That's that level of skill; he probably could never learn it! (End of Chapter)