Billionaire Profile
Zhang Hongfu
Global Rank
#630

Image: Poems by Cao Zhenxiu (曹貞秀), 1762–ca. 1822 Paintings by Gai Qi (改琦), 1773–1828 | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Zhang Hongfu

CEO, Bubble tea
CHINA
Real-Time Net Worth
$6.437B
Estimated based on Bubble tea stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.43% (24h)
Age
39
Source
Bubble tea
Industry
Food & Beverage
Citizenship
CHINA

Biography

Zhang Hongfu is the CEO of Mixue Group, the world's second-largest seller of freshly-made drinks by annual cups sold. Along with his elder brother, Zhang Hongchao, Hongfu co-founded the bubble tea empire, Mixue Bingcheng, in 1997. The company, known for its affordable ice cream, bubble tea, and coffee, has expanded to over 50,000 stores worldwide. As of early 2025, the company went public with an IPO, leading to Zhang Hongfu's estimated net worth of $7.8 billion. He is a key figure in the food and beverage industry, driving Mixue Group's rapid growth and global presence.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Career

Zhang Hongfu joined his brother, Zhang Hongchao, in 2007 to help build Mixue Bingcheng. Hongchao started a shaved ice shop in Zhengzhou, China, in 1997. The business evolved over time, shifting to ice cream, and later expanding to include bubble tea, lemonade, and coffee drinks.

Rise to Success

Zhang Hongfu's role as CEO has been instrumental in standardizing operations and management. The company adopted a franchise model, with nearly all of its stores operated by franchisees. This approach allowed for rapid expansion, making Mixue one of the largest franchise operators globally.

Key Business Strategies

Mixue Group's strategy focuses on low-priced items, such as soft-serve ice cream, bubble tea, and coffee, which attracts a large customer base. The company also vertically integrates its supply chain, manufacturing its own ingredients and equipment. This vertical integration gives greater control over pricing and ensures quality across its vast network of stores.

Philanthropy

No specific philanthropic initiatives are available in the search results.

Career Milestones

2007

Joined Mixue Bingcheng

Joined his brother, Zhang Hongchao, to help standardize operations and management.

2025

Mixue Group IPO

The company went public in a $444 million Hong Kong IPO in March 2025.

Controversies & Challenges

2022

Child Labor Violations

Mixue drink shops faced fines for the illegal use of child labor.