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A photo of the production line in Zhenzhenlaolao's factory. [Photo/Tide News]

The logistics trucks lined up outside the factory of Zhenzhenlaolao, a zongzi producer in Youchegang town, Xiuzhou district, Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, dispatching shipments every few minutes on May 21. 

Inside the factory, automated production lines and workers operate in sync, churning out over 2 million zongzi, a traditional Chinese delicacy made of glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, per day, accelerating the journey of this traditional delicacy to tables nationwide.

Behind the bustling production lies a story of innovation and rural vitalization. The zongzi economy in Youchegang has evolved beyond seasonal demand, becoming a symbol of traditional industries embracing modernization and shared prosperity.

At Zhenzhenlaolao's factory, high-speed automation has replaced manual processes like rinsing rice, meat preparation, and weighing, taking the daily capacity to over 3 million units.

Since 2005, the company has pioneered advancements, including China's first automated zongzi filling device and the one-time steaming freshness-locking technique. These innovations have redefined production efficiency while preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Founded in 1939 as a small alley workshop, Zhenzhenlaolao has grown into one of China's largest zongzi producers. Last year, its zongzi gift box was named a "Zhejiang specialty gift", blending cultural symbolism with modern design.

Smaller producers are also making waves. Jiaxing Hengyuanzhai Food capitalized on medicinal-food trends with offerings like astragalus beef zongzi.

Zongzi is now more than just ingredients but also innovation and cultural pride. It weaves a bridge between tradition and modernity, wrapping a narrative of innovation, culture, and collective prosperity.