Biography of Zhang Yong

Overview

Zhang Yong is a Chinese billionaire entrepreneur and co-founder of Haidilao International Holding Ltd., the largest hot pot restaurant chain in China. He has a net worth of $19.2 billion as of October 2021, according to Forbes’ Billionaires List.

Early Life and Education

Zhang Yong was born on January 1, 1969, in Sichuan province, China. His family was poor, so he worked various odd jobs to help support his parents and five siblings. He didn’t finish high school and started working as a welder in a steel factory.

In 1988, at the age of 19, Zhang left his hometown to work in a furniture factory in Shenzhen. After two years, he saved up enough money to start his own furniture-making business in Guangzhou.

Career and Achievements

In 1994, Zhang met his future wife Shu Ping in Guangzhou. They started a small restaurant together, specializing in Sichuan-style hot pot. The restaurant was a hit, and they soon opened more locations.

In 2004, Zhang and Shu co-founded Haidilao International Holding Ltd. They aimed to create a hot pot restaurant chain that combined traditional Sichuan cuisine with modern service and atmosphere. Haidilao’s restaurants are known for their high-quality ingredients, excellent service, and innovative entertainment options.

Today, Haidilao has more than 1,000 locations in China, as well as branches in other countries such as the United States, Canada, and Singapore. The company went public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2018, and Zhang Yong’s net worth skyrocketed.

Zhang is also an active philanthropist, supporting education and disaster relief efforts in China.

Personal Life

Zhang Yong is married to Shu Ping, his co-founder and business partner. The couple has two children. Zhang is known for his low-key lifestyle and avoids publicity.

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