China

Zhang Lan, Chairwoman of South Beauty Co Ltd

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-11-22 07:48

In 2000, Zhang Lan founded South Beauty Food & Beverage Co Ltd, then grew it into a chain with two distinct restaurant brands and more than 50 operations across China.

Her avowed mission is to spread Chinese food culture - especially delicate Sichuan cuisine - throughout the world.

As the official caterer for the Beijing Olympic Games, the Shanghai Expo and other world-class forums, South Beauty has earned an international reputation.

Zhang has also been invited to bid on catering for the London Olympic Games, the first opportunity for a Chinese food company to cater an Olympics outside China.

Although she has won many awards and recognition for her philanthropic work, Zhang is particularly proud to have been named a Chevalier - or Knight - by French President Nicolas Sarkozy this year, the first Asian woman to receive the honor.

Q&A:

What are the events that make you most proud of your company?

The first significant event came during the SARS epidemic in 2003, which was a great threat to the restaurant industry.

At the time, I knew a strong team with an indomitable background would be the support for the company.

Another event came in 2008 when South Beauty was selected as the official Chinese food caterer for the Olympic Games.

The Expo in Shanghai was also notable as we were one of four caterers chosen.

I just returned from London, where my restaurant passed verification, showing South Beauty is qualified for major international competitions. I am proud of it.

What do you think it takes to be a successful entrepreneur?

The success of South Beauty is in fact the success of myself. I think my life is meaningful as I have become an outstanding entrepreneur and brought forth a brand and valuable enterprise.

I also feel that you should forget your gender to be an entrepreneur. Many people believe that a woman does not have much advantage in business.

So you should forget that you are a woman but remember your responsibility and mission.

Does it cost a woman more than a man to be an entrepreneur?

On the contrary, I feel I received more because I can also feel the sense of happiness as a mother, a wife and a daughter.

Sometimes, I feel I am happier than a man.

How do you keep your advantage through innovation?

When I started, South Beauty was traditional. We thought about ways to add some vitality - for example with its logo - and add value to it.

We made brave innovations in flavor, taste and presentation of food. We also made innovations in services.