As one of China's most iconic industrial enterprises, Gree Electric Appliances Inc. has carved a unique path from a local air-conditioning assembler to a global leader in smart appliances and sustainable technologies. Founded in 1991 with a modest focus on household air conditioners, the company now operates 14 production bases across six countries, employs over 90,000 staff, and exports products to 160 nations, embodying China's transformation into a technological powerhouse.
Gree's rise was fueled by its early commitment to quality and specialization. In the 1990s, when domestic manufacturers often prioritized low costs over reliability, Gree introduced rigorous quality control systems, including the pioneering "Zero Defect Engineering" program. This emphasis on precision engineering allowed it to dominate China's air-conditioning market by 1995 and later achieve global recognition. A defining moment came in 2005 when Gree became the world's largest residential air-conditioner manufacturer—a title it has held for nearly two decades—thanks to innovations like its two-stage compressor technology, which improved energy efficiency by 30% compared to conventional models.
Central to Gree's success is its philosophy of "innovation without boundaries." The company allocates unlimited funding to research and development, maintaining 16 global research institutes and accumulating over 126,000 patent applications. Its breakthroughs range from ultra-quiet GPD DC inverter systems to solar-powered air conditioners, positioning Gree at the forefront of sustainable cooling solutions. Such advancements have not only earned consumer trust but also reshaped international perceptions of Chinese manufacturing, transitioning from "Made in China" to "Designed by China".
Global expansion further solidified Gree's reputation. Entering Brazil in 2001 marked its first overseas production base, aligning with China's "Going Global" strategy. By tailoring products to diverse climates—such as customized units for Qatar's desert stadiums during the 2022 FIFA World Cup—Gree demonstrated remarkable adaptability. Today, its industrial robots and smart manufacturing solutions serve sectors from automotive to food processing, reflecting a strategic shift from home appliances to high-tech industrial ecosystems.
However, Gree's journey has not been without challenges. As it diversified into electric vehicles and renewable energy through acquisitions like Yinlong New Energy, the company faced intense competition in these nascent sectors. Critics argue that its foray into electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems, while ambitious, requires significant capital and faces technological hurdles compared to established players. Additionally, Gree's heavy reliance on air-conditioning sales—still contributing over 60% of revenue—raises questions about long-term growth diversification, particularly amid slowing global demand for traditional appliances.
Despite these obstacles, Gree has shown resilience. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chairperson Dong Mingzhu spearheaded live-streamed sales campaigns, generating ¥17.8 billion in revenue and showcasing agility in digital transformation. Its renewable energy projects, including solar cooling and lithium battery recycling, align with China's carbon neutrality goals, underscoring Gree's commitment to environmental stewardship.
Looking ahead, Gree continues to balance innovation with sustainability. Its investments in AI-driven smart homes and industrial automation signal a future where technology and eco-consciousness converge. From empowering households with energy-efficient appliances to pioneering green manufacturing, Gree's story transcends corporate success—it represents China's industrial ambition on the global stage, proving that relentless innovation and strategic adaptability can redefine industries.
