Gree

Gree Electric’s Marketing Director, Zhu Lei, has addressed claims by Xiaomi that they have surpassed Gree in online air conditioner sales in China. Zhu stated that publicly available data from AVC doesn’t support Xiaomi’s claims and that Gree maintained its online market leadership in July. While acknowledging competition, Gree maintains its focus on quality and service to earn customer trust, despite Xiaomi’s ambition to dominate the home appliance market. Xiaomi’s data suggests they are now second in online market share, challenging Gree’s long-held leadership.

At the China Brand Festival, Gree’s Dong Mingzhu staunchly defended the Rose air conditioner against design criticisms. Priced at $4,500, this bio-inspired, rose-exterior model targets newlyweds, aiming to infuse romance into the home. Dong insists on its innovative value, despite mixed reactions, stating it is “the world’s first.” The Rose embodies Gree’s strategy to elevate appliances beyond mere functionality, exploring emotive design in a competitive market as China’s appliance industry seeks artistic differentiation.

Xiaomi executive Lu Weibing’s comments during a live stream have ignited a debate in China’s appliance market. Instead of acknowledging Gree, a major competitor, Lu praised Midea and Haier, setting Xiaomi’s sights on joining them as a top player by 2030. This move, interpreted as a strategic avoidance of Gree, highlights Xiaomi’s growing influence through aggressive expansion, particularly in air conditioning and refrigeration, intensifying competition within the sector.

Gree’s Marketing Director, Zhu Lei, discussed the unexpected online reunion between Dong Mingzhu and former employee Meng Yutong. He clarified it was a natural interaction, not a marketing ploy, emphasizing genuine care and transparency. Despite speculation, Zhu stated there were no issues with the reunion. The live stream drew millions of views and significant sales. They also came together for a grand opening of the first-ever “Dong Mingzhu Healthy Home” flagship store.

Tech influencer Wang Ziru, known for product reviews, is re-entering the AI field after leaving Gree. His departure, described as “the worst time of his life,” stemmed from challenges despite a focus on industrial internet and sales infrastructure overhaul. Wang prioritized vision over compensation and previously integrated within Gree with close proximity to Chairwoman Dong Mingzhu.