America 1919

So, Donnie quickly added military and manufacturing to the two major industries on his list. "With these two sectors, I can truly underpin the undertakings I aspire to achieve!" Donnie said with a smile, looking at the names filled on the paper before setting the sheet ablaze with a match. Although the sectors were numerous, Donnie knew his journey was long and arduous. Among the eight major sectors, he had only managed to make the gambling industry number one in the United States, and even with ABC in his media portfolio, he couldn't claim to be the kingpin of the American media industry—at least not until the "Atlantic City Post" was circulated nationwide. As for retail, it was just getting off the ground, and military and manufacturing hadn't even started yet! The train clattered its way to its destination, finally arriving in Atlanta, home to the headquarters of the Coca-Cola Company! When Donnie, Helen, Steve Cotting, and their five bodyguards alighted from the train, Donnie saw Robert Woodruff waiting at the station to greet him! "Donnie, welcome to Atlanta!" Robert Woodruff offered his embraces. After a brief exchange at the station, Donnie and his entourage took the car arranged by Robert Woodruff to the Heidis Hotel in Atlanta, the city's largest and most luxurious hotel. "Donnie, welcome, my friend!" At the hotel, Donnie met the old helm of Coca-Cola, Ernest Woodruff! Once both parties were seated, old Woodruff smiled and said, "Donnie, I've prepared a grand dinner for you tonight, and invited some friends over. I hope you'll enjoy it!" Given Donnie's current status and position, he certainly deserved such treatment! "Thank you, my friend. But I think we should discuss the important matters before attending the party," Donnie replied. "Young people are always so energetic!" Old Woodruff remarked with a sigh, then laughed, "Regarding the letter you had sent, I've read it, and we wholeheartedly support the idea of you establishing a franchise company. We promise to supply Coca-Cola to every convenience store of yours at the earliest possible time!" The most crucial reason for Donnie's trip to Atlanta was indeed to discuss the matter of the franchise company with old Woodruff. Coca-Cola had already conquered the entire southern United States and was the region's most famous carbonated drink. Partnering with the Coca-Cola Company would aid in opening up the convenience store market in the American South. However, from the way old Woodruff spoke, it seemed he was not very keen on participating in this venture. "Mr. Woodruff, do you have any concerns regarding this matter?" Donnie cut straight to the chase. Old Woodruff heaved a sigh and said, "Donnie, Robert has already briefed me on the content of your negotiation with him, and I greatly appreciate your honesty. With that in mind, I'll skip the formalities." After pondering for a moment, old Woodruff continued, "First of all, I'm very bullish about the franchise company you spoke of, and I have faith that under your management, it will surely succeed. However, that is not a reason for the Coca-Cola Company to invest in the franchise. I have my considerations, which I hope you will seriously ponder after I finish explaining." Donnie nodded, "Of course!" Old Woodruff went on, "Firstly, Coca-Cola is a beverage company, and I wish for it to maintain its genetics—always a pure beverage company. It may launch more flavors in the future, but they will be in line with Coca-Cola's heritage. If Coca-Cola were to venture into commercial investments, it would taint its purity. Moreover, if your franchise company, which you have founded, succeeds and Coca-Cola not only prospers but also profits handsomely from this investment, then the directors might shift their focus away from the management and research of beverages, which is not something I'd like to see. Secondly, Coca-Cola's marketing targets the entire nation and, potentially, the world in the future. Given this, Coca-Cola cannot show favoritism; it needs to cater to all retail companies nationwide. If Coca-Cola were to join your franchise company, how would other franchises perceive it? Would they think Coca-Cola is assisting Apollo Company in competing against them? If such public sentiment arises, it would be a catastrophic blow to Coca-Cola's marketing efforts, so the risk is too great for us to take." Old Woodruff was candid with his considerations to Donnie. "Donnie, you are now the largest shareholder of the Coca-Cola Company. Since you believe in the future development of Coca-Cola under our father-son leadership, we cannot let you and the other directors down. Therefore, we can only apologize for your proposal!" Donnie sat on the sofa, lightly tapping on the armrest, creating a heavy atmosphere in the living room. Robert Woodruff looked worriedly at Donnie and his father. He was well aware of his father's thoughts, but he never expected him to be so frank with Donnie about the matter!