The founder of the globally expanding Chinese milk tea chain Chagee, Zhang Junjie, 32, has tied the knot in a high-profile traditional wedding that has captivated public and business attention across Asia. The nuptials were notable not only for the combined S$10.9 billion valuation of the couple’s business empires but also for a unique, brand-centric detail: they served Chagee’s signature premium milk tea to guests in place of traditional alcoholic beverages.
Mr. Zhang married Gao Haichun, also 32, the co-chairman of major solar energy manufacturer Trinity Solar, on December 15 at the Zhongwu Hotel in Changzhou, eastern Jiangsu province, China.
A Toast to Tea: A Billion-Dollar Brand Tribute
The wedding, a lavish affair featuring traditional red and gold Chinese wedding attire, served as a celebratory platform for the popular Chagee brand. In a touching nod to the beverage that launched his success, each attendee received a custom cup of milk tea, presented in festive red and gold packaging.
The celebration extended beyond the wedding hall. Employees from the over 7,000 Chagee outlets across China reportedly received special candy gift boxes as wedding favours, allowing the staff and even customers—through in-store campaigns—to share in the couple’s happiness.
The union of Mr. Zhang and Ms. Gao brings together two powerful entrepreneurial forces whose combined companies are valued at over RMB60 billion (approximately S$10.9 billion), positioning them as one of China’s most influential business power couples.
Rags-to-Riches Story Behind the Milk Tea Empire
While the business success is staggering, Mr. Zhang’s personal narrative provides a compelling rags-to-riches story. Media reports highlight that the founder was orphaned at the age of 10 and born into poverty.
His journey into the F&B industry began at 17 when he secured a job at a local milk tea store, using the opportunity not just to work, but to teach himself to read and write. He rose through the ranks before ultimately launching Chagee in 2017, transforming his humble beginnings into a global beverage powerhouse now cherished by fans, including many in Singapore’s bubble tea scene.
