Gree Electric

Gree Electric Chairman Dong Mingzhu and former protégé Meng Yutong will reunite in a May 23 livestream, their first joint appearance since 2022 rift rumors. The event, teased with “Long Time No See” on social media, follows Meng’s viral Weibo post—featuring private messages with Dong—that drew 15M+ views. In 2022, Gree trademarked both names across finance, tech, and advertising as Meng emerged as China’s top Gen-Z executive influencer. Analysts call the reunion a strategic fusion of leadership clout and youth marketing, while critics label it “calculated brand theater.” Public reactions range from skepticism to bewilderment.

Wang Ziru, former Gree Electric digital transformation architect and ex-CEO of Xiaomi-backed tech review platform ZEALER, is returning to tech media after a three-year stint at the appliance giant. At Gree, he spearheaded the divisive “Cloud Wholesale” initiative, boosting online sales by 37% while alienating traditional dealers. Analysts suggest his corporate experience could revitalize ZEALER and offer unique product strategy insights, though challenges include competing with ByteDance’s Douyin and balancing industry expertise with consumer trust. Gree’s shares dropped 1.2% amid succession concerns following his career shift. (98 words)