A county-level city found along Fujian’s south-eastern corner, Jinjiang is famously known as ‘China’s Shoe Capital’. Once known for its cultural imprint as a bustling port city and key node on the ancient Maritime Silk Road, the city is now home to an end-to-end textile and apparel supply chain—a thriving industry worth more than 400 billion yuan.
During the late 1980s, Jinjiang’s apparel sector was still finding its feet, largely fuelled by grassroots entrepreneurship and a desire to move beyond basic manufacturing into brand-building. One tailored suit, sewn in a small workshop, became a local sensation among grooms across Fujian. Behind it were three brothers—Wang Dong Xing, Wang Liang Xing, and Wang Cong Xing—whose vision ushered in a new era of business casual for Chinese menswear. This was the beginning of Lilanz.
“For 39 years, we’ve remained dedicated to one pursuit: perfecting a single garment,” says Wang Jun Hong, vice president and executive director of China Lilang Ltd. Its differentiation lies in a clear, singular philosophy: “Our goal has always been to offer consumers a ‘simple yet sophisticated’ dressing experience, while creating efficient wardrobe solutions for business travellers. We’ve strived to embody this ideal from the very beginning and evolve it continuously.”
Before Lilanz was introduced to the world, the brand was originally named Lilang (利郎), with Li (利) meaning benefit or success, and Lang (郎) meaning gentleman. When combined, the characters conveyed a portrait of the modern man: poised, polished, and accomplished. In 2008, the name evolved to Lilanz, a modernised English adaptation to better resonate with global markets. Decades later, the brand still calls Jinjiang home, operating as the flagship of the China Lilang Group. It oversees every aspect of the value chain, and executes everything, from concept to creation, with an international design team as well as an in-house fabric research and development centre.
When asked how Lilanz remains distinctive in a saturated fashion landscape, Jun Hong explains: “We stay committed to our principle by blending clean design with quality craftsmanship. At the same time, we continuously conduct in-depth research into consumer needs and product innovation, developing differentiated signature items such as durable, washable polo shirts, water-repellent down jackets, and long-lasting white, non-iron jackets.” As of 2024, Lilanz reported RMB3.65 billion in revenue, with 2,773 outlets and 1,350 distributors.
The momentum continues with the opening of the brand’s first international store at SkyAvenue, Resorts World Genting. The 2,885 sq ft retail space marks the brand’s first store outside of China. “The idea of international expansion had been on our minds as early as two to three years ago. We see Malaysia as a vibrant, multicultural country celebrated for its rich diversity,” Jun Hong shares. “We believe its substantial consumer base makes it a highly promising market for our brand’s first global debut.”
Stepping into the new store, visitors will find pieces from the Spring/Summer 2025 collection, which takes inspiration from the perspective of a well-travelled man. Themed capsules include Wandering in London, which envisions the city’s vibrant streetscape through lightweight, breathable pieces suited for daily commutes and office wear; Sand Dunes, which abstracts from desert landscapes using natural fibres in calming earthy tones; Colourful Holiday, which evokes the carefree spirit of sun-soaked getaways with UV-resistant fabrics; and Lilanz x Pronounce, a collaboration featuring sun-proof jackets, jacquard denim, cool twill rayon, and 3D knits.
Before the first stitch is sewn, Jun Hong outlines four essential key stages: “First is insight, where our designers create concept sketches. Second is development, which involves selecting suitable fabrics and fits, then making patterns and samples. Third is validation, as we test the product’s functionality with various equipment and real-life wear trials. Lastly is mass production, where we deliver them to our customers.”
He also elaborates on the brand’s sustainability practices: “In our green manufacturing, our factories use distributed solar power systems and dual-purpose energy-saving devices, as well as dye-free colouring techniques for suits and waterless washing technology for denim.” This same intention is also reflected in its garments, prioritising durability and longevity.
“Since its founding, Lilanz has been pushing the boundaries of fashion by encouraging men to embrace a diverse range of styles,” Jun Hong states. “We’re also exploring the crossover with art and culture, discovering new ways to express style and unlocking more possibilities for menswear.”
