A Disruptive Powerhouse: Jackie Ling

When Jackie Ling is not fulfilling his duties as the Chairman of Uni-China Group, he finds solace in long-distance running. It’s a practice that has served him well over more than two decades, helping him hone many of the qualities required to lead the conglomerate’s unprecedented expansion in Hong Kong.

"It is a pursuit that demands immense dedication and resilience, both physically and mentally," he tells The CEO Magazine. "For me, it is an excellent way to cultivate self-discipline, perseverance and determination.

"Running teaches me valuable life lessons that extend beyond the sport itself. With each step I take, I am reminded of a mantra that has become a guiding principle in both life and business: ‘By continuously propelling ourselves forward, step by step, and remaining steadfast in our pursuit of progress’."

"When faced with challenges or issues in the workplace, it is essential to adopt a collaborative approach and work together with colleagues to ensure effective and successful resolutions."

Starting as a small-scale fresh pork business, Uni-China has become a diversified powerhouse with around 20 brands specializing in the retail, food and beverage, project management and capital management industries.

"We not only possess extensive expertise in fresh market revitalization, but also in various areas, including supermarkets, innovative technology, CRM solutions, integrated marketing, asset management and intelligent storage services with automated robotics technology," Ling says.

"This diverse portfolio allows us to cater to the wide-ranging needs of our customers, enriching their lives across a spectrum of facets within their daily existence."

A DNA of Revitalization

Ling attributes Uni-China’s impressive portfolio of 1,000 retail stores and 20 subsidiaries to its "DNA of revitalization".

"Our Group has always been at the forefront of embracing technology, disrupting traditional practices, and fostering innovation," he continues. "We actively integrate advanced technologies across our various businesses to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations.

"This approach naturally attracts a larger customer base and piques investors’ interest. In recent years, we have also ventured into high-end, technology-focused businesses, such as intelligent mini storage and seamless cold chain logistics services."

Indeed, the Group’s subsidiary TAHUHU is the first and only automated cold chain logistics solution in Hong Kong.

Ling explains that TAHUHU’s state-of-the-art cold chain system automation was designed to eliminate delivery delays and uphold stringent maintenance standards within the cold chain logistics sector.

"Our seamless system is integrated with cutting-edge smart systems and automation, providing a sustainable solution that adapts to every operational step," he adds. "This integration effectively reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, allowing us to achieve carbon neutrality.

"We take great pride in leading the transformation of temperature control and logistics operations, setting new global benchmarks in the process."

Collective Change

The Group earned its credentials as a disrupter more than 10 years ago when it revolutionized the industry by introducing the first-ever electronic payment methods, an e-membership system, a member reward program and market influencers.

Through its work with smart retail solutions provider KORURU, Uni-China continues to lead the way with revolutionary solutions in this field.

"By daring to be the first, we have successfully built the first modern ‘smart markets’ in Hong Kong, positioning ourselves as market leaders," Ling explains.

Of course, you can’t achieve all that Uni-China has in such a short space of time without an aspirational leader like Ling.

Asked what makes a good leader, Ling talks about understanding the value of contrasting perspectives.

"When faced with challenges or issues in the workplace, it is essential to adopt a collaborative approach and work together with colleagues to ensure effective and successful resolutions," he says.

"As the Group Chairman, I firmly believe in the power of teamwork and collective problem-solving.

"By approaching challenges as a cohesive team, we can tap into the wealth of diverse perspectives, experiences and expertise that everyone brings. This allows us to tackle problems from multiple angles and with innovative solutions that may not be possible when working in isolation."

"This diverse portfolio allows us to cater to the wide-ranging needs of our customers, enriching their lives across a spectrum of facets within their daily existence."

Asked if this approach helps with job satisfaction and retention, Ling nods.

"I encourage and champion a workplace environment that values collective abilities and embraces a positive mindset," he adds.

"This fosters a culture of shared learning, where we support and uplift one another, propelling us towards our shared goals. It is through this collaborative mindset that we can overcome obstacles, adapt to change and embrace growth opportunities."

Ling leaves us with a formidable prediction about Uni-China’s future.

"We firmly believe that with our strength and business acumen, we will reach new heights, etching a new legend within the industry."