Chinese Entrepreneur Builds $1.4 Billion Empire After Retirement

From Failure to Success

Guan Yuxiang, known as the 'Canned Beverage Queen', has achieved remarkable success by building a $1.4 billion business after retiring at the age of 50. Born in 1939 in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, Guan began her career at 19 working in a factory in Beijing. After dedicating three decades to the same company, she retired in 1990.

Unlike many retirees, Guan chose to start a new business venture. Her first attempt involved manufacturing equipment and meters, but it ended in failure. However, she viewed this setback as a learning experience that ultimately contributed to her future success.

Identifying Opportunities in Packaging

In 1994, during a trip to Hainan Province, Guan observed that many beverage manufacturers were using packaging materials primarily sourced from Taiwan and South Korea. Recognizing an opportunity, she managed to gather 300,000 yuan (approximately $42,000) in capital and established O.R.G. Packaging Co. Ltd. (ORG) in Hainan.

Building a Business Empire

Guan's determination and strategic insight enabled her to successfully develop ORG into a major player in the packaging industry. Today, her company is valued at $1.4 billion (approximately Rp 23.2 trillion). Her achievement has earned her the title of 'Canned Beverage Queen' and recognition as one of China's most successful retired entrepreneurs.