Lao Tongsheng
Time-Honored BrandLao Tongsheng · Shanghai · Founded 1875
Lao Tongsheng, a century-old Shanghai specialty store, has been renowned since 1875 for its fine southern and northern delicacies, cured meats, and preserved goods. It carries the authentic flavors and culinary memories of Shanghai, blending traditional craftsmanship with local tastes.
Brand Story
Founded around 1875 during the Qing Dynasty's Guangxu reign by the Ye brothers, merchants from Ningbo, Lao Tongsheng began as a shop selling southern and northern delicacies in Shanghai's Nanshi district. Later, it became famous for its cured meats and seafood. Guided by the motto 'Tongde Tongxin, Shengye Yongchang' (Unity of heart, everlasting prosperity), the brothers insisted on sourcing the finest ingredients and conducting business with integrity, quickly establishing the shop as a local landmark. During the Republican era, Lao Tongsheng moved to Nanjing Road, expanding its operations and becoming the go-to destination for festive shopping. Its cured products, such as Jinhua ham and sausages, were crafted with meticulous care, offering distinctive flavors that won widespread acclaim. Lao Tongsheng bears witness to Shanghai's commercial prosperity since the opening of the port, embodying the refinement and pragmatism of Jiangnan culinary culture and serving as a microcosm of Shanghai's commercial heritage.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Selected from the hind legs of Jinhua's 'two-end black' pigs, this ham undergoes salting, washing, sun-drying, shaping, and fermentation. It features thin skin, tender meat, and a savory-sweet flavor with a lingering finish.
Made from pork, natural casings, and seasonings, these sausages offer a balanced sweet-savory taste with a hint of wine aroma. Perfect for steaming or cooking.
Including abalone, sea cucumber, and dried scallops sourced from premium regions. These products are thoroughly dried, have a high rehydration rate, and deliver rich umami flavors.
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
Store details are being expanded. Find this brand’s stores and counters on the map below:
Find stores on Amap ↗Shop Online
Official flagship stores / search entries (CPS placements). Replace the links with your own affiliate PID to earn commission with zero inventory.
Cultural Note
Lao Tongsheng adheres to the traditional practices of a specialty store, emphasizing the natural flavors of ingredients and handcrafted techniques. Its cured meats are prepared using ancient methods, adapted to Shanghai's climate, resulting in a unique taste. The store's displays and packaging retain the old Shanghai style, making it a living artifact for the study of modern commercial customs.
Related Brands
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Lao Tongsheng founded?
Lao Tongsheng was founded in 1875, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Lao Tongsheng?
Its signature product is Jinhua Ham. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: