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Tag: Thailand

  • Off-White opens doors in Bangkok’s EmQuartier

    Off-White opens doors in Bangkok’s EmQuartier

    Italian luxury fashion label Off-White has opened a new monobrand store in Bangkok’s EmQuartier.

    Located on M Floor, the Off-White EmQuartier store occupies a 174sqm space, offering a selection of Off-White’s menswear and womenswear collections.

    The store facade features gray walls with the Off-White’s logo in yellow. The store’s interior is dressed in curved wood, creating a soft and elegant design.

    Off-White’s products are displayed under the wooden wall, which according to the company works as “racking systems and modules for product display”, a feature specially created for this location.

    Several grey granite tables with hole detailing stand in the centre of the store, reflecting the Off-White’s fresh, new logo concept. Velvet benches and carpets add a touch of sophistication to the design.

  • Tops unveils new supermarket retail format in Bangkok

    Tops unveils new supermarket retail format in Bangkok

    Bangkok’s Tops Market Westgate has undergone a major renovation designed to position the supermarket as the “most complete premium lifestyle supermarket in Thailand”.

    The revamp features six “magnet” zones introducing more than 40,000 globally sourced products and focused on meeting a broad range of target consumer trends, in a move to match Central Plaza Westgate’s own development plans and ambitions to become a Western Bangkok shopping hub. The zones include a bakery, health food store, international snacks market, a beauty and lifestyle zone, a dine-in section, and a pet accessories store. The renovation also features a farmers’ market.

    “The complete transformation of Tops Market Westgate is part of our strategy to move our business forward to meet changing consumer trends,” said Central Food Retail COO Sujita Phengoun. “We aim to elevate the shopping experience by offering a premium lifestyle supermarket for our customers to enjoy a new experience and have more fun while shopping.

    “Tops Market Westgate is a blueprint store for our premium lifestyle supermarkets in 2020, offering the most complete products and services in Thailand. There are six new zones that will serve as magnets that draw all customer groups. The renovation is in line with the expansion and increased purchasing power of consumers in Western Bangkok, and resonates with Central Westgate’s strategies to expand our customer base in eight provinces, in order to be the number one destination in Western Bangkok.

    Tops Market Westgate also features a fresh-food zone, a parenting zone, a fashion zone and a promotions zone.

  • Royal Enfield To Compete In American Flat Track Series

    Royal Enfield To Compete In American Flat Track Series

    Royal Enfield has announced that the brand will be competing in the American Flat Track (AFT) starting August 2020. Royal Enfield will be fielding specially-prepared versions of their production bikes. For the Production Twins class, meant for motorcycles with twin-cylinder engines, Royal Enfield will be entering a specially-made model called the FT Concept, based on the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. The FT Concept has been built in collaboration with chassis specialists, Harris Performance, also owned by Royal Enfield’s parent company, Eicher Motors Limited.

    The new machine is going to be based on the bike built as a design exercise between Royal Enfield and Harris Performance. The bike’s frame is a classy looking brazed steel tube, with an adjustable steering head angle to customize the bike’s handling according to individual riders. The frame, 41 mm front forks featuring Ohlins internals, as well as the Ohlins TTX rear shock, as well as the 19-inch wheels machined from forged billet Aluminium, are all made specifically for the bike. Johnny Lewis, Royal Enfield Slide School Instructor in the US, and AFT racer will be piloting the bike on August 28 and August 29.

    “The Royal Enfield FT Concept has already shown promise so far. We’re already seeing great results from the motorcycle. The team at Harris Performance and Royal Enfield have done a great job with the chassis, and we’ve already begun working through small adjustments based on my feedback. With the way the schedule is shaping out with small tracks, we could surprise many people,” said Lewis.

    Royal Enfield already has a FT411 based on the Royal Enfield Himalayan, to be used for Slide School flat track lessons, both in India and in the US. Later in 2020, four lady builders of the ‘Build Train Race’ program will also hit the track along with Lewis with their modified Interceptor 650 motorcycles alongside Lewis. The events for the all-women flat tracker are scheduled for October 2-3 at the Dixie Speedway event and at the Daytona Beach on October 15-16.

    While Royal Enfield has made tremendous progress in product development and engineering, starting with the 650 Twin platform as well as the Royal Enfield Himalayan which has been increasingly gaining acceptance worldwide, the future will surely be focussed on more models, new engines and platforms. We have consistently maintained that Royal Enfield has already entered a new era in technology and product development, and the next few years will only show more evidence of shaking off an image, at least in the domestic market, of having motorcycles with technology which critics consider ancient. With the push to events like the American Flat Track series, Royal Enfield seems to have set its sights on cementing its position in the international market, and also following the old adage – “Race on Sunday, sell on Monday.”

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  • Thai Motor Show Underway In First Big Event Since Coronavirus Outbreak

    Thai Motor Show Underway In First Big Event Since Coronavirus Outbreak

    Thailand opened its twice-postponed annual auto show to the public on Wednesday in the country’s first large-scale event since coronavirus restrictions eased, with nearly all attendees wearing masks and face shields. Thailand is a major regional car production hub and its previous motor shows booked over a million people in attendance.

    Thermal scans were at the entrance to the 41st Bangkok International Motor Show and temperatures were measured as people visited booths, where waiting spots were prepared to ensure physical distancing.

    Guests were also required to check-in and out with their cellphones to allow for contact tracing. Visitors were also required to check-in and out with their cellphones to allow for contact tracing

    “I don’t come to the event every year, but I think for the first day of the event amid a pandemic, people are in quite large numbers,” said Suriya Thanakorn, 50, who was on the lookout for a new car.

    Motor shows around the world have been forced to cancel or delay due to the pandemic. But Thailand has pressed ahead having gone nearly seven weeks without local transmission of the virus, which has infected just over 3,000 people, most of which have recovered.

    Chief organizer Prachin Eamlumnow said eyes will be on how Thailand handles one of the first big global shows since the pandemic started. We take a look at the new all-electric coupe-SUV crossover from Nissan.

    “No country can arrange an event on this scale, so the other event organizers will be watching,” he said. “We have succeeded in controlling COVID-19.”

    There are 25 car brands including Nissan and BMW and 22 motorcycle manufacturers on show at booths with specific entry and exit points to prevent crowding.

    Ramesh Narasimhan, president of Nissan Thailand, said the stringent measures should be maintained to ensure good attendance throughout the 12-day event.

    “It’s really important for us to keep it for the entire show, but the first signs are very, very positive, so I’m pretty excited about that,” he said.

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  • AEON partners with Big C to launch ‘Big C World Mastercard’ for the ultimate shoppers in the New Normal era

    AEON partners with Big C to launch ‘Big C World Mastercard’ for the ultimate shoppers in the New Normal era

    Mr. Nuntawat Chotvijit (Left), Director of AEON Thana Sinsap (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a leading retail finance company, together with Dr. Piyawan Piyapong (Right), Executive Vice President-Service and Ecommerce Business of Big C Supercenter Public Company Limited, Thailand’s leading hypermarket business announced the premier of “Big C World Mastercard”, a credit card that provides exclusive contactless payment solution that suits the cashless lifestyle of the ‘New Normal’ shoppers. The card offers superior shopping benefits and experience, both online and offline at Big C stores nationwide, under the slogan “The best credit card @ Big C “. Benefits include up to 10% discount for Big C shopping online and 7% discount including the electrical appliances department at Big C stores. Cardholders will also earn x5 reward points for a shopping of THB 10,000 or more, with terms applied, as well as a 10-months 0% installment plan at the electrical appliances department. In addition, cardholders can earn 1 AEON Happy Point for every THB 20 spent, which can be used to redeem Big C gift vouchers and many other privileges from the Big Card at leading partner stores.

    Exclusively for the launch of Big C World Mastercard, customers that spend a total of THB 30,000 or above by the card will receive a Lock & Lock Frying Pan, Eco Fryer 3.5 liters valued THB 4,490, along with THB 500 Big C discount code. Apply to receive special privileges from July 1st to December 31st, 2020.

  • Thai Vietjet offers super-saver fares from THB50 for all 13 routes in Thailand

    Thai Vietjet offers super-saver fares from THB50 for all 13 routes in Thailand

    In celebration of its new routes in Thailand, Vietjet has kicked off a special promotion offering 500,00 air tickets priced from THB 50 (*) (USD 1.5) starting from now to 17 July 2020 during the golden hours of 1.00pm to 3.00pm (Malaysian time).

    Here’s your chance to plan ahead for a perfect Thailand trip! The promotional tickets are applicable on all of its 13 domestic routes in Thailand and valid for travel between 1 September 2020 to 30 June 2021 (**). Tickets can be booked via Vietjet’s website and mobile application Vietjet Air.

    “We are happy to bring in more flying opportunities for the people to discover the “Smiling Land” with amazing experiences. This is a perfect chance for Thai people to go on a tour within Thailand with their families and friends. We are committed to expanding flight network in domestic Thailand and continuously provide exciting experiences to our passengers with daily promotion program”, said Vietjet Vice President, Nguyen Thi Thuy Binh.

    The recently announced six new Thailand routes expand Thai Vietjet’s domestic routes to 13, allowing tourists to travel conveniently around the country. This super promotion is applicable to all Thai Vietjet’s domestic routes in Thailand from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Udon Thani, Phuket – Chiang Rai, and Udon Thani – Chiang Rai, including new routes from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ubon Ratchathani (starting from 6 October 2020),  Surat Thani (starting from 4 November 2020), Chiang Rai – Hat Yai  (starting from 1 November 2020).

    Currently, Vietjet is operating a stable domestic network in Vietnam and Thailand. All Vietjet’s flights are in alignment with all global standards and guidelines from the local authorities, including aircraft disinfection.

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  • Centara offers sneak preview of Centra by Centara Cha Am Beach Resort Hua Hin

    Centara offers sneak preview of Centra by Centara Cha Am Beach Resort Hua Hin

    Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, releases first details of its debut hotel in Cha-Am – Centra by Centara Cha Am Beach Resort Hua Hin.

    Opening on 24 July 2020, one week before schedule, the 190-key beachfront resort is poised to become a sought-after choice for travellers seeking a contemporary beachfront escape just two hours from Bangkok.

    The former Beach Garden Hotel was completely reimagined and underwent a full floor-to-ceiling renovation and now features brand new room types including pool access rooms and spacious seaview suites.

    Families, groups of friends, and couples have a choice of activities at their fingertips, with facilities including two swimming pools complete with fun water slides, children’s pool with water play area, a kids’ club, fitness centre and full-service spa.

    To celebrate its opening, Centra by Centara Cha Am Beach Resort Hua Hin is offering an introductory offer with rates starting at THB 1,120 net per night, plus 20% off F&B at the resort’s three restaurants and bars. 

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  • Centara donates 10,000 room nights to medical heroes

    Centara donates 10,000 room nights to medical heroes

    Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, continues its support of the country’s medical workers with the launch of its “10,000 Thanks” campaign dedicated to the heroes working tirelessly for the wellbeing of the people. 

    As a token of heartfelt gratitude for the healthcare heroes in the ongoing fight against COVID-19, Centara is donating 10,000 room nights for doctors and nurses to enjoy a complimentary one-night stay for two guests at any Centara Hotels & Resorts property in Thailand or overseas. 

    In recognition of their continuing hard work and the challenging circumstances in which doctors and nurses have been working, Centara is offering frontline medical staff across the country a chance to take a much-deserved break, completely free of charge, to recharge and reconnect with their loved ones.

    “10,000 Thanks” can be redeemed across the group’s five existing brands – Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara, and COSI – in destinations across Thailand and overseas, including a number of resort destinations such as Pattaya, Hua Hin, Phuket, Krabi and Samui as well as urban destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Udon Thani and Hat Yai.

    The free night offer is reserved for medical front line professionals who are doctors and nurses with Thai nationality or currently residing in Thailand only.

    Coinciding with Thailand’s lifting of all restrictions in July following months of phased re-opening, the “10,000 Thanks” offer can be booked between 1stJuly – 30th December 2020 for stays within the same period. 

    Centara is also extending appreciation to all other workers across the medical industry with an offer of 25% off every rate across the group’s entire portfolio spanning 18 destinations. “25 for heroes” bookings can be made on www.centarahotelsresorts.com between 1st July – 30th  December 2020with no restrictions on travel period. 

    The “10,000 Thanks” and “25 for heroes” medical personnel campaigns are the latest in a series of initiatives launched by Centara Hotels & Resorts to help communities and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    Since April 2020, the group has partnered with charities and government organisations to provide 1,500 food boxes to support at-risk communities, and offered hotel rooms in Centara Grand at CentralWorld and Centara Muscat Hotel Oman to host healthcare staff and people in need. Centara’s Help the Heroes’ campaign also aims to support those in need with donations going to the Chaipattana Covid-19 Aid Fund (and other pandemics) and Thai Red Cross Society.

    “Thailand has not seen community transmission of COVID-19 for over a month now, and there’s no question of the importance the role our country’s healthcare heroes play in keeping us healthy and safe. As restrictions in the country start to ease, we invite doctors and nurses to enjoy a much-needed holiday on us, as a humble token of our immeasurable appreciation of their selfless efforts,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

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  • TAT joins AirAsia to stimulating domestic tourism with new aviation safety standards

    TAT joins AirAsia to stimulating domestic tourism with new aviation safety standards

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) joined Thai AirAsia for a special activity taking place on the Bangkok-Krabi route on 29-30 June 2020, aimed at rebuilding confidence and revitalizing domestic tourism. This was done by bringing together medical workers, tourists, business operators, and the media in a trip showcasing the readiness of airline, venues, travel destinations, hotels, and restaurants, to provide safe and hygienic service.

    Governor of TAT, Yuthasak Supasorn, pointed out that domestic travel will be an important mechanism to jumpstart the economy at both the local and national levels, adding that this event will highlight traveling under the new normal, which focuses on adherence to healthcare advice, encouraging travelers and businesses alike to adapt and rehabilitate tourism.

    The TAT’s goal for this activity is supporting domestic tourism and promoting awareness of various safety practices for traveling, visiting sites, and staying in accommodation so that travelers can prepare accordingly.  The authority assures that measures being promoted are straightforward and that everyone will be able to travel conveniently in the new normal.

    Representatives from different sectors were invited to join in the activity, including medical professionals, travel companies and travel groups, all given the opportunity to experience present-day tourism using the concept “BEST, wherein B: Booking – covers before, during and after travel planning, travel companions, pre-booking and social distancing; E: Environment – covers environmental conservation and social responsibility; S: Safety – covers information for decision making as well as health and hygiene and T: Technology – incorporating the use of technology to facilitate contactless tourism and greater physical distancing.

    CEO of Thai AirAsia, Santisuk Klongchaiya remarked that travel and domestic spending in the nation is crucial at this time to stimulate the economy and tourism sector, affirming AirAsia’s support for TAT.

    From July onward, the airline will be resuming service to all 23 of its domestic destinations, including regional connections Chiang Mai-Hat Yai, Chiang Mai-Pattaya (U-Tapao), Hat Yai-Pattaya (U-Tapao) and Khon Kaen-Hat Yai for a total 25 routes, flying 68 return trips a day in support of travel and business.

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  • KBank establishes fintech company in China to be financial innovation lab

    KBank establishes fintech company in China to be financial innovation lab

    KBank has established KASIKORN Vision Information Technology Co., Ltd. It is a fintech company wholly owned by KASIKORN Vision Co., Ltd. (KVision) with registered capital of RMB 300 million. It is the first fintech company to be set up by a foreign bank in Shenzhen this year. The company’s main business will involve the design, creation and research of new technologies. It has formulated a five-year operating plan to support the future development and provision of financial technology.

    Mr. Ruangroj Poonpol, Chairman of KASIKORN Business-Technology Group (KBTG), said that KBank has established KASIKORN Vision Information Technology Co., Ltd. which is registered in Luohu district, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China. It is a financial technology, or fintech, company which is wholly owned by KVision. Its registered capital is RMB 300 million, or equivalent to THB 1,300 million. It is the first fintech company to be established by a foreign bank in Shenzhen this year. The company’s main business involves the design and creation of IT systems, research of new technologies, search for new business models conducive to digital banking and digital economic systems, as well as the development and testing of prototype products and provision of new financial technologies to KASIKORNBANK FINANCIAL CONGLOMERATE and its customers.

    KASIKORN Vision Information Technology Co., Ltd. has formulated a plan involving three steps over the course of five years: The first step, in the first year of business, is to consolidate the foundation, focusing on the completion of team building, business models and other basic work, to support KASIKORNBANK (China) Co., Ltd.’s digital strategy as the main development direction. The second step, over the second and third years, involves steady progress through in-depth integration with shareholder resources, key business group in Thailand and China + ASEAN regional institutions; and the integration of leading domestic technological achievements, especially those of Shenzhen, to provide innovative financial science and technology solutions. The third step, over the fourth and fifth years, is the acceleration of development in the course of becoming an influential fintech company in the region. At the same time, in the fields of technology accumulation, research and development, the company will join with leading international research and educational institutions to explore the establishment of financial science and technology laboratories to support the research and application of related basic disciplines.

    KASIKORN Vision Information Technology Co., Ltd. will promote the expansion of financial science and technology services to ASEAN countries, and make Shenzhen an important node for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, which is an important support pillar for the Belt and Road Initiative to reach out and connect with ASEAN countries. This would benefit ASEAN and enhance China-ASEAN economic and financial cooperation.

    Luohu district is a newly developed area in Shenzhen, a central business district which houses the headquarters of more than 70 licensed financial institutions and first-line branches, or the approximate equivalent of one-fifth of the city’s licensed financial institutions. Thus, Luohu district serves as a frontrunner in terms of development, with technological innovation serving as the primary driving force. Additionally, the district has been able to attract new investment and new talent, which will comprehensively improve the scale and quality development of its emerging industries. KASIKORN Vision Information Technology Co., Ltd. is expected to receive the full benefit of being located in this region.

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  • Taco Bell launches D.I.Y Taco Kit for the first time in Thailand

    Taco Bell launches D.I.Y Taco Kit for the first time in Thailand

    In response to the trend of New Normal, Taco Bell launches “D.I.Y. Taco Kit”, inspiring customers to become Mexican Chef and create Taco Bell’s signature Taco Supreme, in their own style, anytime, anywhere with the similar spicy taste as served at Taco Bell restaurant. Taco Bell’s D.I.Y. Taco Kit is available from 22 June to 31 August, 2020 at Baht 389/box. Customers can easily place their D.I.Y. Taco Kit order from foodpanda delivery service or buy at Taco Bell stores to take back home.  To win special prizes, customers have to capture their Taco Supreme and share delicious moments on Facebook: @TacoBellTH.

    Mr. Chalermchai Mahagitsiri, President and CEO of TTA and Director of Siam Taco Co., Ltd., stated that, “We have experienced on unprecedented shift in our way of life and are pushed to embrace the “new normal” practice due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  We also pay more attention to cleanliness and social distancing to keep ourselves, our colleagues and our family members safe.  This crisis triggers a dramatic adaptation in food businesses as consumers become less confident about eating outside the home. The food delivery service is gaining considerable popularity among customers, supporting by the work-from-home policy. Consequently, Taco Bell has achieved a significant increase in their online order sales.

    “In order to serve the demand for online ordering and contactless delivery, Taco Bell revolutionizes the Taco industry by initiating D.I.Y. Taco Kit special for customers in Thailand. We believe that our customers will enjoy making their own delicious-style tacos anywhere, anytime.”

    D.I.Y. Taco Kit for Taco Lovers. No waste time waiting in line at Taco Bell stores. Just unbox it, all of which come with choices of 4 crunchy hard or soft taco shells, favorite seasoned ground beef or chicken, shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomato, hot sauce, sour cream, cheddar cheese. To make it even more delicious, one can add pico de gallo salsa and Guacamole, which do not normally put in signature Taco Supreme. All ingredients are wrapped and packed in a sealed packaging to ensure food safety.  Customers can also add more ingredients for more flavors and a lot of fun, then share their good memories on TacoBellth Facebook to win some prizes. For more update activities, news and promotions please visit Facebook: facebook.com/TacoBellTH, IG: @TacoBellTH, Twitter:  @TacoBellTH, and Line: @TacoBellTH.

    Currently, Taco Bell operates 6 branches in Thailand: The Mercury Ville @Chidlom, Siam Paragon, Central Pinklao, Samyan Mitrtown, Central Westgate, and Sukhumvit Soi 11. Every store strictly adheres to safety measures in accordance with the government policy and nationwide policy from Centre for the Administration of the Situation due to the Outbreak of the Communicable Disease Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

     

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  • Eight in ten Thais use contactless payments more often as they become uncomfortable with cash

    Eight in ten Thais use contactless payments more often as they become uncomfortable with cash

    Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, today released findings from its Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes study (the “Study”), that show almost eight in ten Thais (79 percent) are using contactless payments more often than they did two years ago.

    The study, which tracks consumer habits and attitudes towards payments across Southeast Asia, also revealed three in four Thai respondents (75 percent) who are not using contactless payments today, are interested in doing so in the future.

    Suripong Tantiyanon, Country Manager for Visa Thailand, said: “It is heartening to see Thai consumers embracing new payment technologies, especially the use of contactless cards for payments.  The shift in behavior and the rise in confidence can be attributed to an industry effort to educate the general public on the benefits of contactless and an increasing acceptance points.  Contactless payments are still in the early stages of adoption in Thailand, but we are optimistic for their growth due to its speed, convenience, security and global acceptance wherever Visa contactless is accepted across the world.

    The top reasons consumers cited for adopting contactless payments are: not needing to carry cash (68%), desire to use an innovative way to pay (58%), and faster payment compared to other methods (55%).

    When it comes to frequency of using contactless payments, over four in five respondents (82 percent) use their cards at least once to more than four times a week.

    The top places where respondents use their contactless cards to make payments are during overseas travel (17 percent), followed by at supermarkets (12 percent), and retail shops (11 percent).

    The Study also delved into usage between demographics.  While Gen Y is more likely to use contactless cards (55%), use among older Gen X users was significant (45%).  The younger generation uses contactless payments more frequently, with three in ten making payments more than four times a week, while only one in five Gen X users will make the same number of payments.

    State of the Nation: Cashless Society

    Based on the findings, over two in five respondents (43 percent) said they carry less cash now than they did two years ago.  Their top reasons for carrying less cash are: carrying cash around is unsafe (65 percent), using more contactless payments (62 percent), and cash withdrawals are easily accessible (62 percent).

    In addition, more than four in five respondents (82 percent) have moved away from cash and tried living daily life relying on cashless methods.  Almost three in four (70 percent) managed to live cashless up to a few days.  Twenty-one percent managed to live more than a week but short of one full month on cashless modes of payment.  The remaining nine percent could live their lives without cash for one month or more.

    When asked about their inclination towards adopting cashless payments in the future, seven in ten Thai respondents (72 percent) said they expect to increase their usage of cashless payment methods next year.  Their top reasons for intention to displace cash include convenience (69 percent), the hassle of carrying cash (62 percent), and an increase in their comfort paying with cashless methods (51 percent).

    Increasingly, Thai consumers are confident in going cashless.  Two in five (38 percent) believe they can last more than a month without cash.  On the other end of the spectrum, nearly six in ten (58 percent) hold the belief they could only get by for 24 hours without paying by cash.

    When asked how long it would take for Thailand to become a cashless nation, 40 percent of the people surveyed believe it will take between two to five years, 27 percent thought it would take between six to ten years, and interestingly seven percent believe it could happen next year.

    Respondents to the survey believe the top benefits for Thailand being a cashless nation are convenience (58 percent), ability to track financial records easily (56 percent), lower risk of theft (55 percent), and promoting financial inclusivity (44 percent).

    “It is evident that payment innovations can accelerate the transformation into a cashless society.  However, it is equally important to continuously stay in touch with the end consumer to better understand their existing needs as well as anticipating their future demands.  We hope the Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes Study, already in its sixth edition, will help our clients and partners grow business and support the government in shaping measures that will benefit the people and enable the Thai economy to thrive,” Suripong concluded.

  • Index Living Mall unveils new store concept in Bangkok

    Index Living Mall unveils new store concept in Bangkok

    Index Living Mall has unveiled its next retail concept in Bangkok’s Ekkamai district, with a focus on apartment furnishings, fresh graphics and new store layout.

    Called ‘ Fresh-up Ekkamai, lift-up your life’, the concept introduces new zones and features a variety of new-to-market homewares and furniture items.

    The “Condo Collection” zone presents furniture specially designed for condominiums, while the “Younique” zone offers customized furniture. Other zones include a Sofa & Recliner Exhibition, Outdoor life and Storage Solutions & Home Organisation.

    Index Living Mall MD, Kridchanok Patamasatayasonthi, said the store’s renovation was undertaken because Ekkamai is becoming a popular residential neighborhood, with multiple condominium units rented to both locals and foreigners.

    The new concept store will suit shoppers with tight budgets who are seeking functional items for compact living spaces.

    Index Living Mall’s Ekkamai store also offers customers free consultations with in-house specialists.

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  • Thai AirAsia wants regulators to lift restriction on middle seat

    Thai AirAsia wants regulators to lift restriction on middle seat

    Thai AirAsia (TAA) will ask regulators to change the rule requiring airlines to keep middle seats open, aiming to increase capacity ahead of the government’s domestic tourism promotion next month.

    “We have complied with this rule that was introduced when the infection rate in the country was still high, but as we have a low number of cases now, it’s time to consider dismissing this limitation,” said Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive of TAA.

    The average load factor since resuming domestic flights in May is 80-85%, he said, but those figures are based on capacity reduced to 60-70% because of middle seat elimination.

    The empty seats, intended to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, cut revenue by a third for each flight.

    Mr Santisuk said most airlines globally did not block off middle seats when restarting their flights during these two months.

    He said airlines cannot carry this burden in the long run, particularly the loss of opportunity as domestic demand starts to show positive signs.

    Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive of TAA

    “We’ve heard that soon the government will launch a new tourism stimulus package for consumers, including a subsidy on airfares,” Mr Santisuk said. “If airlines can increase capacity to the normal level, it’ll coincide with the policy to support travel activities.”

    A meeting between the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and airlines is scheduled for June 16. The agency will hear aviation operators’ thoughts about international flights reopening.

    At present, TAA is operating 16 routes countrywide and plans to add more destinations to respond to growing demand.

    Nuntaporn Komonsittivate, head of commercial operations at Thai Lion Air (TLA), said the average load factor is 70% based on available seats. Although the number is high, it barely translates to a profit because 30-40% of seats must always be empty.

    From June 19, TLA decided to reopen all 13 domestic routes to test local demand. It launched an airfare promotion to stimulate purchasing power when the lockdown relaxation enters the fourth phase.

    “Although we cannot be sure about the feedback of the market, we have to try to increase our liquidity and also look for future revival when travel between countries that have successfully contained the coronavirus is allowed,” Ms Nuntaporn said.

    She said the nationwide curfew is another unfavorable factor for flight operations, causing inconvenience for passengers catching early-morning or late-night flights. There are also time-consuming health and safety procedures at airports.

    Meanwhile, TLA must strictly control costs by extending salary cuts further after laying off hundreds of workers earlier, Ms Nuntaporn said.

    The carrier at present has 14 aircraft, down from almost 40 when tourism reached its peak last year.

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  • Siam Piwat & Simon JV opens in Bangkok in Siam Premium Outlets

    Siam Piwat & Simon JV opens in Bangkok in Siam Premium Outlets

    Siam Piwat and partner Simon Property Group will open Siam Premium Outlets in Bangkok next week.

    Located near the Suvarnabhumi International Airport, the first Premium Outlets-branded shopping center in Thailand will open on June 19. The center will feature more than 200 brands, from global luxury labels including Burberry, Balenciaga, Coach, Hugo Boss, and Montblanc, to local brands, including EveandBoy and Jim Thompson.

    The joint venture, Siam Piwat Simon, said 60 brands will feature exclusively at Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok.

    The shopping center will also house a 1300sqm Nike premium store, locally inspired art, and a 1200sqm food hall concept by Food Republic.

    “Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok will be an economic driver for the Thai economy; the center will create more than 1000 career opportunities,” said Michael Tang, MD of Siam Piwat Simon.

    “The experience of the center extends beyond shopping with amenities and design features that make the center an exciting community space and a relaxing shopping destination.”

    According to Tang, the shopping center will team up with other key tourist attractions to “enhance the appeal of the area as a major local and tourist destination”.

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