Rebirth in Hong Kong: From Dessert Shop to Industrial Empire.

Chapter 259 Taking Over 6K (Seeking monthly votes, recommendations, and subscriptions!)

In the office of the deputy director of the program department of RTV, producer Tsui Siu-ming and screenwriter Lee Siu-hung sat facing each other, both with somewhat solemn expressions.

The ashtray on the table was already piled high with cigarette butts.

"Director Xu, is the news confirmed?"

"Was it really Chen Bingwen, who started out making desserts and selling beverages, who bought our Lihwa?"

Li Zhaoxiong asked uncertainly.

He is someone who can delve into a script to the core, but he is not sensitive to the ups and downs of the capital market. However, this change is directly related to the life and death of his masterpiece, so he can't help but be anxious.

Xu Xiaoming has a wider network of connections within the station and is better informed.

He took a deep drag of his cigarette, nodded, then shook his head: "It's probably true."

A friend in the finance department revealed that there were indeed signs of a large sum of money being transferred, and the buyer was Sugar Heart Capital.

However, it hasn't been officially announced yet, and the new boss hasn't shown up.

He paused, flicked his cigarette ash, and said, "Right now, everyone in the station is in a state of panic, and all sorts of rumors are circulating."

Some say the new owner is going to make a major overhaul, others say our business isn't profitable and we might have to cut a lot of projects and departments.

Tsui Siu-ming is 28 years old this year and is already a very experienced producer at RTV. He is known for his action design and later became famous for producing TV series such as "The Legendary Fok" and "Chen Zhen".

Sitting opposite him, Li Zhaoxiong, though only twenty-five years old, has already demonstrated outstanding screenwriting talent and is poised to become a top screenwriter and producer in Hong Kong's film and television industry, having created many classic works such as "The Greed of Man" and "I Have a Date with Spring".

The two of them are the core initiators of the long-running local drama "The Land's Kindness," which the station is preparing to focus on filming recently.

"Sigh," Li Zhaoxiong sighed, picked up his teacup and put it down again, "The new owner is in the manufacturing industry, and I heard he has a very tough style. I wonder what he thinks about television programs."

Our film, "The Land's Grace," is set in the Pearl River Delta during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. Every aspect—scenery, costumes, and props—was incredibly expensive.

The cycle is long—I'm afraid that both new and old bosses will only look at short-term benefits, thinking that our kind of production is slow and expensive, and therefore won't invest.

He poured a lot of effort into this script, making several trips to collect information and conduct field research in rural areas. The characters, stories, and even many details in the script are all verifiable. He genuinely believes that this is a good piece of work and should not be buried.

Xu Xiaoming was a few years older than Li Zhaoxiong and had experienced some ups and downs. Although he was not confident, as the person in charge of the project, he had to keep a firm grip on things.

"Zhaoxiong, don't panic first."

No matter who's in charge, good stories and good programs are always needed.

A good script is essential to retaining the audience.

Our script is solid, reflecting the roots and sentiments of our nation. As long as it's filmed well, I don't believe it won't find a market.

Now, all we can do is stay calm, do a more thorough job of preparation, and when the new boss arrives, we'll have something substantial to offer.

He recalled seeing a news article a few days ago about the new boss, Chen Bingwen, donating to education in mainland China. He felt that this person might not be a purely profit-driven businessman, but might have some different ideas. However, this thought flashed through his mind and he didn't say it out loud. After all, you can know a person's face but not their heart.

"I hope so." Li Zhaoxiong nodded reluctantly, but the worry between his brows did not disappear.

As the two were talking, there was a light knock on the office door, and before they could respond, the door was pushed open.

A middle-aged man in a suit with slicked-back hair poked his head in, a smug smile on his face.

This person is named Luo Zhiqiang, and he is the head of another production team at the station. He has always been at odds with Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong. The two sides have been competing openly and covertly over issues such as resource allocation and creative concepts. It can be said that they are neck and neck.

"Hey, Director Xu, Editor Li, still busy?" Luo Zhiqiang strolled in, his gaze sweeping over the slightly messy office, and said flippantly, "You're really dedicated!"

"What time is it? Why are you still working so hard?"

Xu Xiaoming frowned and looked at Luo Zhiqiang coldly, asking, "Producer Luo, is there something you need?"

"It's nothing serious," Luo Zhiqiang said with a fake smile. "I just came to pack some things and say goodbye to you two."

"Producer Luo, you've been promoted?" Li Zhaoxiong couldn't help but ask.

"It's not a high position," Luo Zhiqiang said smugly, straightening his suit and tie. "I'm honored to have been invited by Mrs. Chow of TVB to take charge of a newly launched drama series project."

"After all, it's TVB, a large and well-established company, so their production budget is quite generous."

Upon hearing this, Li Zhaoxiong's expression changed slightly.

TVB is RTV's biggest competitor, and for Lo Chi-keung to switch sides at this critical juncture is tantamount to a betrayal, and it was clearly something he had planned in advance.

Luo Zhiqiang seemed quite satisfied with their reactions and continued, "If you ask me, with Lidi changing owners, its future is uncertain."

Your "The Land's Kindness" script is as thick as a brick, but these days, who has the patience to read those slow-paced rural stories?

Hey you two, can't you be a little more informed?

The world is about to change for RTV!

The new owner is in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry; they are young and focused on quick turnover and high return on investment!

Your slow and meticulous approach might not suit the new boss's taste!

At this point, Luo Zhiqiang looked at Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong's ugly faces and became even more smug: "For the sake of our past working together, I'll give you some pointers."

If—hehe, if the new boss comes and shuts you down, and you have nowhere to go, you can come find me.

I'm in the production team, so at least I have some influence. I can arrange a position for you guys as a site supervisor or script assistant, so I can make a living!

It's better than being unemployed, right?

These words, though seemingly well-intentioned, are in fact a blatant insult and mockery.

Xu Xiaoming's face darkened, and Li Zhaoxiong was so angry that he wanted to stand up and argue, but Xu Xiaoming stopped him with a look.

"Luo Zhiqiang, put away your kindness!"

Our affairs are none of your concern!

You should worry about how you'll adapt to working at Wi-Fi!

Xu Xiaoming's voice was calm, yet carried an undeniable force: "As for how the new owner will make a decision, that's a matter for later."

Please leave my office now; you are not welcome here!

He was seething with anger, but he knew that arguing with such a petty person would be pointless.

"Hmph, ungrateful!" Luo Zhiqiang, having been rebuffed, snorted coldly, "Then you can just wait to starve!"

I wonder if your "Grace of the Earth" will even see the sun rise tomorrow!

After saying that, he turned around, swaggered out, and slammed the door shut with a loud bang.

Li Zhaoxiong slammed his fist on the sofa, angrily cursing, "A petty person who has gotten his way!"

Luo Zhiqiang's words were like a thorn, piercing into the hearts of Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong, starkly revealing their deepest concerns.

Although I dislike Luo Zhiqiang's character, what he said is not entirely unreasonable. How would a new boss view a project like "The Land of Love" that requires long-term investment?

Xu Xiaoming took a deep breath, both to comfort himself and Li Zhaoxiong: "Zhaoxiong, don't let these personnel matters affect you."

Especially at times like these, we must do our preparations thoroughly. The episode outlines and the scripts for the first ten episodes of "The Land's Grace" must be polished again to be impeccable.

As long as the book is good enough, I believe there will always be people who appreciate its value.

He said this both to Li Zhaoxiong and to encourage himself.

Similar concerns and discussions spread throughout RTV.

From the production department to the technical department, from actors to ordinary administrative staff, everyone was speculating about the new company's intentions and worrying about their future.

The entire television station was shrouded in an atmosphere of anxiety and anticipation of judgment.

Chen Bingwen's office is located on the top floor of the Weiye Building.

Fang Wenshan placed a preliminary due diligence report on RTV on Chen Bingwen's desk and calmly reported, "Mr. Chen, the preliminary audit and assessment results are in."

The situation is somewhat complicated.

In terms of assets, the Broadcast Drive property and transmission equipment are high-quality assets, and the film library also has some value.

However, the problems are also prominent: bloated organizations and overstaffing are common.

The program's production costs were poorly controlled, resulting in significant waste.

Most importantly, apart from a few dramas, the overall viewership was completely suppressed by TVB, and GG's revenue showed a clear downward trend.

Morale is extremely low.

Chen Bingwen quickly flipped through the report, his gaze lingering on several key data points.

He recalled the trajectory of Lih's eventual decline in his past life, with rigid management and talent loss being key factors.

He must avoid repeating the same mistakes. Acquiring Rediffusion is not just about obtaining a media license, but about creating a platform that can make its voice heard and generate momentum.

"What about the management?" Chen Bingwen asked without looking up.

"General Manager Huang Xizhao is a veteran who can stabilize the situation, but he lacks drive."

The program planner, Xiao Ruoyuan, is talented, but his ideas are too unconventional and need to be restrained.

The key figures in the production department—Mai Dangxiong, Li Zhaoxiong, and Xu Xiaoming—are all capable and pragmatic, but they need a clear direction and sufficient support.

Many of those below are just coasting along, waiting to see how the wind blows.

Fang Wenshan was concise and to the point, explaining the situation of RTV in just a few words.

Chen Bingwen closed the report and leaned back in his chair.

He knew in his heart that the integration of Rediffusion had to be done quickly, accurately, and steadily.

"Quickly" means to stabilize public sentiment and seize the window of opportunity.

Accuracy means finding the right focus and setting benchmarks with successful cases.

Stability means managing personnel matters well and avoiding drastic changes that could lead to talent loss and business paralysis.

"Inform Morris that a meeting of all management personnel of RTV will be held at 9:00 AM tomorrow."

I will participate in person.

Chen Bingwen made a decision instantly.

Fang Wenshan looked slightly surprised: "Mr. Chen, you're going personally? Shouldn't you send Maurice and the others first—"

'

"No, it's my first appearance, so I have to go."

Chen Bingwen interrupted him, saying in an unquestionable tone, "At this time, they need to see the attitude and determination of the new and old bosses."

Staying home and listening to reports won't solve the problem.

The next morning at nine o'clock, in the main conference room of RTV (Rediffusion Television).

The atmosphere was more somber than at any other meeting.

The middle and senior management of RTV, core producers, well-known directors and screenwriters were all present.

The attendees whispered among themselves, speculating about the content of the meeting.

Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong sat in the back, their feelings complicated.

Suddenly, the conference room door opened, and Huang Xizhao, the former general manager of the TV station, walked in with several other people.

The leader was a very young man, dressed in a well-fitting dark suit, with an upright posture, calm yet sharp eyes, and steady steps; it was Chen Bingwen.

He was accompanied by Vincent Fang and the newly appointed general manager of RTV, Morris.

Chen Bingwen's youth surprised many people who were seeing him for the first time, but the composure and imposing presence he exuded that were beyond his years made everyone instantly abandon their contempt.

Huang Xizhao first introduced Chen Bingwen and his group with some respect, and then invited the new boss to speak.

Chen Bingwen walked to the microphone, his gaze calmly sweeping across the room. Without any unnecessary pleasantries, he began, "Hello everyone from RTV. I am Chen Bingwen."

Legally speaking, a few days ago, Sugar Capital became the controlling shareholder of RTV.

Starting today, Sugar Heart Capital has officially taken over RTV (Rediffusion Television).

I know that there have been various rumors circulating within the station recently due to the change in shareholding, and everyone is feeling a bit uneasy, which is normal.

The opening remarks were simple and direct, causing a stir among the audience.

Many people originally thought it would be nothing more than inspiring empty talk.

"I've reviewed the viewership reports and financial statements for the past few months," Chen Bingwen continued, speaking slowly but with great weight in every word. "The situation is far from ideal."

The show's ratings were completely suppressed by TVB, its revenue continued to decline, its internal management processes were cumbersome, and some of its program production concepts were outdated and unable to keep up with changes in audience tastes.

Upon hearing this, many people in the audience changed their expressions. It seemed like this was a complete rejection of the past!

Even Huang Xizhao's smile froze on his face.

"However," Chen Bingwen changed the subject, "I also saw the potential of this television station."

Rediffusion Television (RTV) holds the earliest television broadcasting license on Hong Kong Island, has a comprehensive television network, a team of experienced production and technical personnel, and, more importantly, several promising projects and creative ideas in the pipeline.

He paused briefly, giving the audience time to process the information.

"My acquisition of Rediffusion is not a hobby, much less a way to dismantle and sell it for money."

My goal is to make it a competitive player in Hong Kong's television industry again, and even, in the future, challenge TVB's current position.

This goal sounds somewhat distant, even arrogant, but when Chen Bingwen says it, it carries an undeniable certainty.

"To achieve this goal, I can't do it alone, nor can I rely on Sugar Heart Capital for funding."

Ultimately, it depends on everyone here, on good programs, and on the remote controls in the viewers' hands.

He looked around at everyone and said, "So, during the next integration period, I will follow a few principles."

The audience fell silent; everyone pricked up their ears.

First, regarding personnel.

I want to make it clear to everyone that Sugar Capital's acquisition of Rediffusion is based on its confidence in the future development of the television media industry. It's about building a business, not about dismantling the company for profit.

Therefore, there will be no large-scale, indiscriminate layoffs.

These words brought a slight sense of relief to many people in the audience.

"However," Chen Bingwen changed the subject and said seriously, "not laying off employees does not mean eating from the same pot, nor does it mean that we can take advantage of the situation."

The core of a television station is its content and its programs.

In the future, the retention, promotion, and compensation of all departments and individuals will be directly linked to performance and contributions.

Teams and individuals who can produce good programs, attract audiences, and generate profits will receive the greatest support and rewards.

Conversely, those who occupy positions without performing any work and waste resources are no longer welcome at ATV.

My principle is: I don't support idlers, but I will never mistreat those who do the work.

Over the next month, management will conduct an evaluation of all departments and projects.

The evaluation criteria are simple: the show's viewership potential, its innovation, and the team's execution.

Teams with potential and a willingness to work will not only avoid layoffs, but will also receive more resource support.

And those who occupy positions without contributing anything, whose programs make no impact, and who only cause internal strife —

He paused for a moment before continuing, "Li's past problems were not problems with people, but problems with mechanisms and direction."

The era of egalitarianism is over. From now on, the capable will rise, the mediocre will step aside, and the incompetent will be dismissed.

These words were quite blunt, and many people in the audience changed their expressions, especially several middle managers who usually had a poor reputation.

A combination of kindness and severity, with a clear rhythm.

The audience fell into an eerie silence, everyone holding their breath.

"Secondly, regarding the future positioning of Rediffusion."

My goal is for RTV to be a provider of high-quality content and an influential mainstream media outlet.

We don't need to blindly follow trends, and we certainly shouldn't lower our standards.

What we need to do is create high-quality programs that have both a good reputation and high viewership.

We must be rooted in our local culture and history, and create dramas that are different from those of TVB and have our own unique characteristics.

Stories that showcase patriotism, reflect social changes, and portray human nature will be our primary focus of investment.

Upon hearing this, Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong's hearts skipped a beat.

Chen Bingwen's words seem to—seem to subtly align with the direction of "The Land's Grace"?

"Third," Chen Bingwen pointed to Morris beside him, "this is Mr. Morris, who will become the new general manager of RTV, and will be fully responsible for daily operations and management."

Morris has extensive experience in the media industry, and I hope everyone can support his work as wholeheartedly as they support Mr. Huang.

Mr. Huang Xizhao will serve as an advisor to the board of directors, continuing to provide valuable advice for the development of the television station.

The personnel arrangements were clean and efficient, injecting new leadership while reassuring the old guard, demonstrating a steady and methodical approach.

Chen Bingwen's speech was short, less than ten minutes, but it was packed with information, well-organized, and had a clear objective, without any of the hesitation or exaggeration that young people might have.

He demonstrated an undeniable level of control and strategic vision.

After the meeting, the crowd dispersed, talking amongst themselves.

Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong exchanged a glance, both seeing a glimmer of hope in each other's eyes.

The new and old boss's words at least gave them the feeling that "The Land of Love" might still have a glimmer of hope.

A few days later, even more exciting news arrived.

The newly appointed general manager, Maurice, personally convened a meeting with the core members of the drama department.

At the meeting, he clearly stated that after evaluation, the board of directors believed that the "Love of the Land" project had a unique theme and a solid script, and had the potential to become a high-quality drama series. They decided to officially launch the project, allocate the first phase of production funds, and require the team to be assembled as soon as possible and to start filming on a selected date.

Several promising variety shows and anthology series projects were also named.

Several programs with low ratings and poor reviews were directly canceled.

These actions quickly stabilized the chaotic situation within Li.

People realized that the new boss wasn't just messing around; he had a clear vision and made decisive decisions. Those who were capable were retained, and even given important positions.

You scoundrel, get lost.

In an instant, the atmosphere at the station was revitalized. The previous atmosphere of constant anxiety was replaced by a more positive sense of tension, and everyone wanted to prove their worth in front of the new boss.

In Morris's office, Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong received the official approval to start the project, and they were very excited.

Morris told them, "Mr. Chan values ​​the 'Grace of the Earth' project highly. He believes that serious themes rooted in our own culture have unique vitality and value, and are one of the foundations for Rediffusion's future."

He hopes you can eliminate distractions, produce it meticulously, and not have too many commercial concerns; the key is to make it a classic.

The station will prioritize providing funding and equipment.

Emerging from Morris's office, Li Zhaoxiong's hands trembled with excitement: "Brother Xiaoming, I never expected—the new boss—he actually has such good taste!"

Xu Xiaoming also breathed a long sigh of relief and patted his old partner on the shoulder: "It seems that we have not encountered the kind of opportunistic person like Luo Zhiqiang."

Do your best in filming, Zhaoxiong, don't let this trust down.

This time, we might actually be able to create something different.

Just as RTV was gradually getting back on track and began preparing for new projects, Chen Bingwen was not idle.

In his office on the top floor of the Great Wall Building, he was listening to Morris's report.

Morris primarily reported on the progress of the television station's internal integration and the launch of projects such as "Grace of the Earth".

After listening, Chen Bingwen nodded and instructed, "Internal stability is the first step."

Next, you need to start looking for and training our own production and hosting talent.

TVB has an artist training program, we can run one too, or we can directly recruit promising newcomers from universities and drama troupes.

They can even poach people directly from wireless networks!

In addition, the technical equipment should be updated where necessary; don't be afraid to spend the money, as the production quality of the program is fundamental.

He turned to Vincent Fang: "A television station is a black hole for funds; it's difficult to achieve significant development in the short term if it relies solely on its own revenue generation."

Sugar Capital needs to ensure continued investment in Li.

In addition, you and Morris should work together to explore developing related audio-visual products, talent management, and other peripheral businesses using the Li platform, forming a closed loop.

Fang Wenshan wrote them down one by one.

He realized that Chen Bingwen intended to manage RTV as a long-term strategic asset, not just a simple broadcasting platform.

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