Heritage – Pechoin

In 1931, Mr. Gu Zhiming established Fubeikang Cosmetics Co., Ltd., with its factory located at No. 117, Chang Le Road, Shanghai.
The company started using the “Peh Chao” trademark on cosmetic products such as face powders.

The name "Peh Chao" (meaning "a hundred sparrows") was suggested by a kind elderly gentleman.
It symbolizes auspiciousness—“hundreds of birds paying homage to the phoenix”—and also implies joy and popularity.
Mr. Gu had a special fondness for birds, which in Chinese culture represent festivity and a down-to-earth spirit, echoing the brand’s vision of reaching every household.

In 1936, the factory moved to No. 33, Lane 125, Lagena Road, and the product line expanded to include cold creams and face powders.
That same year, Fubeikang Household Chemicals Unlimited Company officially registered the “Peh Chao” trademark with the Nationalist Government for cosmetics, including:
• Face powders (under “Peh Chao”)
• Toothpaste and tooth powders (under “Peh Chao”)
• Moisturizing creams (under “Peh Chao Cream”)

During that period in Shanghai, many socialites were loyal users of Pechoin products. The famed "Queen of Chinese Cinema," Chen Yunchang, even endorsed Pechoin in newspapers.

In 1939, a friend shared a cold cream formula with Mr. Gu to support his product development.
Through repeated testing and refining, he finally created China’s first domestically produced cold cream — Pechoin Cold Cream.

Thanks to its impressive efficacy and affordability, the cold cream quickly gained popularity, standing toe-to-toe with global giants like Nivea and becoming China’s No.1 cold cream brand.

1940s: A Beloved Household Name

Throughout the 1940s, Pechoin became a household name, seamlessly woven into the daily lives of countless Chinese families.

Pechoin was born during the upheaval of World War II, a time of political and social unrest.
Yet, Fubeikang offered good working conditions, and many young women aspired to work there.
These elegant and well-paid workers were affectionately called "Pechoin Ladies" by the locals, becoming a unique scene in the neighborhood.

On August 20, 1946, the first Miss Shanghai contest was held.
Fubeikang sponsored the event, and several finalists—including the top three—personally endorsed Pechoin products.
The cover of the special issue featured Xie Jiahua, a fan favorite, who recommended Pechoin face powder.

1950s–1960s: From East to the World

In the 1950s and 60s, Pechoin carried Eastern elegance onto the global stage, introducing Chinese skincare philosophy to distant lands.

1950s

By the late 1950s, Pechoin represented China at the prestigious Leipzig Trade Fair in Germany,
known as the "mother of all trade fairs" with a history of over 800 years.
Shortly thereafter, Pechoin products began exporting to East Germany.

1960:
To expand its market further, the Shanghai No. 2 Daily Chemical Factory, through the China Sundries Export Corporation (Shanghai Branch), authorized China Resources (Hong Kong) to register the Pechoin brand in Hong Kong. The product categories included:
• Cleaning products
• Toothpaste
• Soap
• Cosmetics
• Shoe polish
Pechoin also entered markets such as Malaysia and Indonesia, extending its Eastern heritage globally.

1980s–1990s: Legacy and Innovation

In the 1980s and 90s, Pechoin upheld its heritage while embracing innovation, expanding its product lines and rejuvenating its brand.

The Shanghai No. 2 Daily Chemical Factory developed Phoenix Pearl Cream, one of China’s first premium daily-use skincare products.
Known as a nourishing skincare revolution, this cream shifted the skincare concept from basic protection to comprehensive care and nourishment.

2000s: The Elegance of the East, A Gift to the World

Entering the new millennium, Pechoin honored its Chinese heritage and became a symbol of Oriental elegance presented to the world.

Drawing from decades of skincare expertise, Pechoin's classic products became staples in households across China.
Meanwhile, its herbal-based series, developed with modern science, began to flourish—ushering in a new era of herbal skincare and establishing Pechoin as a leading brand in traditional Chinese herbal skincare.