In a recent development that caused a stir among customers in Beijing, there was confusion regarding the status of Daoxiangcun, a well-known store selling everyday snacks, and its designation as a laozihao, or time-honored brand. It was clarified that the store in question was a similarly named entity in Tianjin, not the celebrated Beijing store, which would lose its distinguished status.
This incident was part of a broader move by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) to remove 54 Chinese time-honored brand stores from its prestigious list, including Beijing’s Xinluchun restaurant, Shanghai’s Laobanzhai restaurant, and Chongqing’s Guanshengyuan store. The reasons cited for this removal ranged from long-term poor operation and bankruptcy to the loss of trademarks.
Time-honored brands in China are renowned for their quality products, excellent techniques, and reliable services that have been passed down through generations, often with over a century of history. The title of a time-honored brand is a mark of distinction, first awarded to over 1,600 businesses in 1991, with an additional 1,128 enterprises recognized in 2006 and 2011.
The MOC’s decision aims to improve the protection and inheritance of these cultural icons, establishing well-operated brands as standards and models for others. However, some brands have struggled to maintain their relevance and quality standards in changing times, leading to their removal from the list.
Tianjin Daoxiangcun, for instance, established in 1988, faced criticism for its high-priced yet poor-tasting pastries. Similarly, Xinluchun restaurant in Beijing, once famous for its savory steamed buns in the 1980s, saw a decline after shifting its focus to regular dishes. In Shanghai, the removal of Laobanzhai restaurant was met with mixed reactions, with some lamenting the loss while others agreeing that the restaurant no longer lived up to its former glory.
Despite these challenges, many businesses have successfully maintained their status on the list, exemplified by Beijing’s Daoxiangcun. Founded in 1895, this store is renowned for its southern Chinese dishes, traditional festival foods like mooncakes, and frozen food products. Recognized as a time-honored brand in 1993 and a “famous Chinese brand” in 2004, it stands as a testament to the successful adaptation and preservation of traditional values.
The concept of time-honored brands in China goes beyond business success; it is deeply intertwined with cultural significance. The naming of these brands often involved selecting auspicious names from ancient Chinese literary works or expressing political aspirations and local styles. These businesses, like the Caizhizhai in Suzhou, are not just commercial entities but cultural ambassadors, showcasing traditional Chinese culinary arts and customs.
Beijing’s Daoxiangcun, for example, keeps its offerings seasonal, reminding customers of Chinese traditions and showcasing the enduring relevance of these brands in modern society.
In conclusion, time-honored brands in China represent a delicate balance between preserving traditional culture and adapting to contemporary demands. While some have struggled to keep pace with changing times, others have successfully navigated these challenges, continuing to offer a window into China’s rich cultural heritage. The ongoing efforts to maintain and adapt these brands ensure that they remain not only relevant in today’s market but also continue to be cherished symbols of China’s cultural legacy.
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