Archive · 12 Oct 2026
Chinese Restaurant Boss Gifts BMWs to Employees After Winter Commute
Ma owns a restaurant in China.
One cold winter morning, she saw Li Jie arrive at work on an electric scooter, looking very cold.
Ma thought her employee should be able to travel comfortably too.
She bought Li a new BMW and gave it to her without asking for money or a promise in return.
Another worker, Liu Yingying, also received a BMW.
Ma said the workers helped make the business successful, so they should benefit from that success.
She also gives her staff gifts and money on special occasions.
Restaurant owner Ma bought employees brand-new BMWs, each priced at 300,000 yuan (about US$45,000).
Ma said she was inspired after seeing employee Li Jie arrive on an electric scooter, visibly chilled by the winter weather.
Li, who had worked at the restaurant for eight years, received a white BMW registered in her name with no payment or agreement required.
Another employee, Liu Yingying, received a grey BMW in recognition of her hard work and performance.
Ma said she wanted employees to share in the company’s success; she also gives staff festival essentials and cash bonuses.
- Who
- Restaurant owner Ma gave BMWs to employees Li Jie and Liu Yingying.
- What
- Ma gifted the workers new BMWs, each priced at 300,000 yuan.
- When
- The idea began last winter; Li received her car on the day she was taken to a BMW showroom.
- Where
- The gifts were given in China; the restaurant’s location is not specified.
- Why
- Ma said she wanted employees to benefit from the company’s success and was moved by seeing Li endure a cold commute.
- Car price
- 300,000 yuan each (about US$45,000)
- Recipient
- Li Jie had worked at the restaurant for eight years.
- Li's car
- A new white BMW registered in her name; she paid nothing and signed no agreement.
- Second recipient
- Liu Yingying received a grey BMW.
- Purchase timing
- Ma had bought the cars two weeks earlier and paid in full.
- Other staff benefits
- Ma usually gives employees daily essentials and cash bonuses during traditional Chinese festivals.