Chapter 5
The final.
Monsieur An feels that the market in Shanghai is changing due to Covid.
As a result, they have decided to sell their last project in Shanghai and move to Hong Kong. I believe that they got impacted by geopolitical factors.
Before this happens, they have already offered me a position in Hong Kong as his partner at the TST shop. After some time, Monsieur An decides to involve me in his first busy shop in HK and other new shops, while ensuring the same shareholder structure. This means a lot to me because my ex partner Oliva keeps his profitable shop and internal finance book only for himself.
Despite being busy, six shareholders receive quarterly financial reports on time. I understand that Oliva may not have the time like others do and he once asked me to do an audit. I believe his report is significant, but the crucial factor is having an attitude of transparency.
During the Covid period in Hong Kong, Monsieur An and his team have been working hard and even managed to pay out dividends quarterly on time. Their dedication has made a big difference in my life. I truly appreciate their transparency and honesty towards investors, as well as the supportive policies of the Hong Kong government and landlords.
Years later, when I visit my clinic in the golf shop area, I see some of his former staff who have been involved in stealing receipts. It’s unfortunate that their place is closing down. It’s important to have integrity and not try to imitate others without a genuine sense of purpose. Why don’t they just find a good boss to follow? It’s beyond my understanding.
Recently, something funny happened. Monsieur An messaged me saying he was coming back to Shanghai to visit old friends. The next day, his ex-manager reached out to me for legal assistance with a business plan involving a wealthy neighbor from Hong Kong near his shop. As someone focused on developing my own business, I jokingly asked the manager how it was possible for him to message me after his boss did and then mentioned that Monsieur An would be returning the following week.
When he tried explaining himself, I immediately stopped him and told him that he should apologize for his past actions and that I didn’t want to get involved in their issues. Some people never change; they even mentioned proudly to Monsieur An that they knew about his upcoming return trip.
During our lunch, Monsieur An asked me if I would consider opening a restaurant with his former staff. It was a bit awkward, and I politely declined to get involved in their issues. However, I assured him that I am happy to help resolve any legal matters if necessary. After our chat, we went to a café and continued our conversation.
I was delighted to hear about his successful land purchase in South East Asia. He even showed me his new watch as we chatted like old friends.Sometimes there are not that much new stuffs in conversations between men.He is a Gemini and we like to gossip on that any way.
Based on my experiences from another UK pizza game, Monsieur An can be quite influential in office politics. He once sent me a sticker as a gentle reminder not to take on more challenging drinking missions. I appreciate his guidance and have learned my lesson with an apology. It’s true that I should reconsider being a partner if I lack knowledge of the operation or kitchen skills.
I still remember that I was the clown at his birthday party on the Bund. I felt embarrassed about my loud voice and decided to remove myself from their new friend group to make sure I wouldn’t bother them anymore. They didn’t mind, it was just my fault.
Fortunately, some of these friends still trust me with their private matters. I have also improved my communication skills to clearly explain what I can do for them. Xavi is the one who organizes charity blood donations and runs an online shop for luxury brands. We had a business lunch near his office area. David is another friend, always sweet with a smile on his face while working for the French Lactalis group. We almost succeeded in getting their yogurt products into family mart group in Shanghai with the help of the local government.Sometime.on weekend.We just invite each other for beers whenever there’s a chance - simple friendship is more important for me.
I must say, Monsieur An is a very stylish and brave French gentleman. Image that he has a family farm in South America and another one in the countryside of Paris. This means that he can come across as confident to most people without even trying to give any advices. I wish him and his family all the best.
The most important advice from Monsieur An for me is to be cautious about business opportunities from friends. There are always people who will try to take advantage of you and your money. My father also warned me about this before, so it’s something I need to keep in mind.This advice has been very helpful to me, and I recently used it to politely decline a project. It’s something the Chinese say, “不入局.”
Our HK concepts still move forward under his operation.He also respects my advice that it’s not good timing to extend business in HK because of geopolitical factors between China and USA.We might sell out brand in the coming 2 years.
Thank you for guiding me in my lesson.
