Early Life
Gao Dekang was born in 1952 in Shanjing village, Jiangsu province, China. His father, a tailor, taught him sewing skills, which would later influence his career path.
Rise to Success
Gao started his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 24 with a small tailor shop, eight sewing machines, and a bicycle. He hired 11 local women to process garments for a factory in Shanghai. He decided to focus on making down jackets, and in 1976, he established Bosideng. Under his leadership, Bosideng has grown to be a leading down apparel company in China. Bosideng's down apparel has consistently ranked first in sales nationwide for 30 consecutive years (1995-2024).
Key Business Strategies
Bosideng has focused on its core down jacket products, brand building, product innovation, and channel upgrades. The company has expanded its reach with stores across China and internationally. They introduced fashionable Fall/Winter apparel trends to the world at the China International Clothing and Accessories Fair for 15 consecutive years. Bosideng also invested in Canadian outdoor brand Moose Knuckles, buying a 30% stake.
Philanthropy
Gao Dekang's philanthropy includes using the proceeds from share sales for capital needs and development of charity work.