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Tag: Thailand

  • AIS upgrades to Netcracker’s revenue management solution

    AIS upgrades to Netcracker’s revenue management solution

    Advanced Info Service (AIS) in Thailand is upgrading to Netcracker 12 to deliver a better digital customer experience and meet myriad internal business objectives.

    As part of the engagement, AIS has also extended its use of Netcracker’s Professional Services in order to ensure the long-term success of the platform.

    AIS is one of Thailand’s providers of mobile, fixed broadband and innovative digital services to approximately 41 million subscribers, advancing together with the evolution of the communications market to consistently meet the changing demands of the digital world.

    As Thailand’s needs for next-generation communications services increase, AIS’ use of Netcracker Revenue Management solution will enable it to deliver the best possible customer experience without disruption. Netcracker 12 will future-proof AIS’ systems, supporting its operations in the long term as digital and other complex services become more prevalent.

    Netcracker’s Revenue Management solution will also help AIS’ marketing and IT teams meet their sophisticated business and technical requirements, enabling more efficient and agile internal operations.

  • Thai AirAsia set to open up Maldives

    Thai AirAsia set to open up Maldives

    Thai AirAsia (TAA) is breaking into Bangkok Airways’ long-held monopoly on Bangkok-Maldives air services, knocking down the high fare barrier in the process.

    TAA, Thailand’s largest low-cost carrier, is to launch a daily non-stop service on Aug 11 with an introductory fare that is a fraction of what is charged by Bangkok Airways.

    TAA’s introductory one-way fare inclusive of taxes and fees, will be 1,990 baht, compared with the reduced 20,400 baht round-trip fare quoted by Bangkok Airways yesterday.

    Bangkok Airways’ normal round-trip goes for around 33,000 baht for flights that take slightly over four hours each way.

    TAA is set to change the face of air travel to the Maldives, which has long been regarded as a highly expensive and luxurious destination.

    TAA’s arrival in the Maldives appears to support the island nation’s move to open up an economy travel segment to boost its tourism.

    “The Maldives is indeed a luxurious brand, but it is for all, not only for ultra high-end travellers,” said Haris Mohamed, acting managing director of Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation, a Maldives state-owned firm whose role is akin to the national tourism board.

    Speaking to the Bangkok Post at TAA’s Maldives service launch in Bangkok yesterday, Mr Mohamed said the arrival of TAA is welcome as it would help create a competitive environment as well offer more travel options to the Maldives.

    Santisuk Klongchaiya, TAA’s commercial director, was confident the carrier’s latest international route would show early success with a high load factor of 85% because of the Maldive’s reputation as a world-class destination.

    TAA has successfully secured time slots for arrival and departure at Male airport that are much sought after by other airlines because it suits travellers’ preference.

    The time slots — arriving in Male at 11.40m and departing at 12.30pm — granted to TAA are broadly similar to Bangkok Airways, which has been the sole operator on this route for more than a decade.

    TAA will use 180-seat Airbus A320 single-aisle jets and only offer economy class for the route, while Bangkok Airways deploys A319s with 12 seats for business class passengers and 108 for economy.

    The provision of attractive time slots at the congested Male airport to TAA reflects the Maldives’ belief that the Thai budget airline would boost international arrivals to the republic.

    Mr Mohamed said TAA would not only bring more Thai tourists to the Maldives but also others from Southeast Asia.

    Last year, Maldives attracted 1.3 million foreign visitors with about 16,000 from Thailand. This year, the country expects to ramp up that number to 1.5 million with TAA being instrumental in achieving that target, Mr Mohamed said.

    Arrival growth has been restricted by limited capacity at Male airport, which is building a second runway which has caused part of the existing airport facility to close.

    TAA will become only the third low-cost carrier flying to the Maldives. The others are Malaysia AirAsia flying from Kuala Lumpur and Tigerair from Singapore.

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  • THAI will not increase capital in Nok Air

    THAI will not increase capital in Nok Air

    Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) stated that THAI’s Board of Directors decided not to increase capital in Nok Air Public Company Limited (Nok Air), which lacks liquidity and needs additional funding to continue operations. Following the meeting on 12 April 2017, it was agreed that a Company representative would be sent to submit a vote on capital increase in Nok Air, which would open up opportunities for other shareholders to increase their shareholding. During this meeting, THAI’s Board of Directors did not yet decide whether or not to subscribe to new shares in Nok Air because a study had to be conducted on suitability and value prior to additional investment.
    On 21 May 2017, a THAI Board of Directors Meeting was held to consider subscription of new shares in Nok Air. THAI’s Board of Directors took consideration of the report prepared by the special task force that studied suitability and value for additional investment in Nok Air, given the Company’s current situation. With consideration to this factor, additional information, and opinions as well given that the transformation plan is still under implementation, THAI’s Board of Directors deemed that under the Company’s current situation it was not the right time to increase investment in Nok Air. Therefore, THAI’s Board of Directors concluded that the Company will not subscribe to new shares in Nok Air, regardless that the Company’s percentage of shares in Nok Air would eventually reduce.
    Even though there will be no subscription to new shares, the Company will continue to contribute as a shareholder and grant support for Nok Air’s eventual recovery and sustainable growth. A Company representative who is a member of Nok Air’s Board of Directors has been assigned by THAI’s Board of Directors to oversee and assist Nok Air through to successful completion of the transformation plan as soon as possible.
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  • Nok Scoot and Thai Airasia X receive AOC

    Nok Scoot and Thai Airasia X receive AOC

    Nok Scoot and Thai AirAsia X were yesterday announced to qualify for Air Operators Certificates (AOC) after both met the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

    Both became the country’s 4th and 5th local airlines to be granted the AOCs.

    Nok Scoot and Thai AirAsia X are low cost international carriers operating in an extremely competitive field.

    Of all 5 local carriers that were granted AOCs, 77% are international carriers.

    The certificates were presented to executives of the two airlines by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand yesterday.

    CAAT director-general Chula Sukmanop said that the presentation of AOC certificates showed that the two airlines have security systems in place and their services met ICAO standards even though they are low-cost airlines.

    One final hurdle for Thailand is to petition the ICAO revoke its red-flagging of the local airline industry which should be successfully achieved by the end of this month, he said.

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  • 2017 Samui Regatta continues successful trend, with Centara Grand Beach Resort as Sponsor

    2017 Samui Regatta continues successful trend, with Centara Grand Beach Resort as Sponsor

    Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui once again showed itself capable of handling international water sports events, being the host sponsor for the Samui Regatta 20-27 May. The Regatta, in its 16th year, has grown to attract the best yachts in Asia and a large spectator following. They come to Samui for great sailing, fantastic beach parties, and the island’s acclaimed hospitality.

    Samui Island itself is acknowledged for its white-sand beaches, sparkling blue sea, breezy coconut trees and picture-postcard tropical appeal. Lately it has proven itself a leading sports tourism destination, especially in yachting. With full support from the Thai government and its policy to promote sports tourism, Samui has attracted more international events and sports enthusiasts to the country during the last decade. The now-famous Samui Regatta is one of the blue-ribbon international events exemplifying this trend.

    “This is another opportunity for people to recognize our resort, not only as a luxurious tropical tourist destination but also a superb water sport venue,” said Denis Thouvard, the resort’s General Manager. “We are located in a prime area where nature and civilization mesh perfectly. Our private beachfront offers Chaweng’s soft white sand, crystal clear water, and peaceful space for personal relaxation or fun activities such as swimming, sailing, jet-skiing and yachting. The resort is also an ideal base for exploring Samui and its island neighbors Koh Nang Yuan and Ang Thong National Marine Park. It is next to Samui’s main town and 20 minutes from the airport. Our guests enjoy wonderful vacations in this tropical paradise.”

    “Samui Island is one of the top tourism and yachting destinations in Asia,” added Ms. Kae Wattana, Managing Director of Regattas Asia. “We have organised Samui Regatta for 15 years and each year we see the number of yachts that come to the island is growing. I believe this growth will continue as more and more people experience the beauty of Samui and the unmatched sailing it has to offer. This year we will again have a spectator boat at Samui Regatta which members of the public and tourists can join to experience the event and learn more about yachting. Our aim is bring the event and yachting closer to people, to increase people’s understanding of yachting, and to attract more visitors to Samui Island. Having Centara, a leading Thai hospitality brand, joined just as main host for this event is helping us to ensure that all participants will be treated professionally and bring back not only a trophy or medal from a competition but also a fantastic memory in Samui as well”.

    The Samui Regatta consists of five days of racing and six nights of parties, including daily prize-awarding on the beach and a lavish Gala Dinner hosted by Centara Grand Beach Resort on the final night. This event showcases Samui’s reputation as a leading yachting destination and contributes significant revenues to the local economy. Surveys show most of the approximately 500 participants come from overseas and have high incomes.

    “As part of the Samui community, we are proud to support the people and economy of this island,” General Manager Thouvard concluded. “In the future we look forward to seeing more tourists, both returning guests and new visitors who want to witness Samui’s natural beauty with their own eyes.”

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  • Tellscore launches brands-meet-influencers platform in Thailand

    Tellscore launches brands-meet-influencers platform in Thailand

    Thailand’s first automated and one-stop micro-influencers-meet-brands platform, Tellscore, announces its official debut online today The powerful digital tool enhances business reach and conversion through social media channels. Tellscore enables micro-influencers to earn and brands to benefit by expressing genuine opinions and authentic branded content online.

    Tellscore utilizes micro-targeting technology, allowing brands to customize the number of micro-influencers they work with based on their areas of expertise, size of followers, and most importantly engagement rates that works as an automated system connecting brands and micro-influencers directly. The incorporation of algorithms creates a Tellscore scoring system that is not only effective but also measurable, projecting a preview of the exposure brands are likely to receive from the budget of their choice, with a wide yet precise digital targeting.

    Tellscore is designed with the insider’s knowledge and understanding that reach or visibilities can be mere quantitative figures in marketing performance but does not provoke shifts toward desired purchasing behavior. In truth, the key to a successful marketing campaign is heavily relying on the level of engagements, which is proven to be only garnered by micro-influencers.

    The brains behind the game-changing platform Tellscore are Suvita Charanwong and Amornthep Chimpleenapanont, the Co-Founders of Redlab Co., Ltd., a leading digital agency in Thailand, specializing in digital marketing. With over 20 years of industry experience, Suvita believes that the Asian market is ready to unlock the marketing potential of micro-influencers.

    “Micro-influencers relate and communicate directly with consumers because they are consumers and they speak from their perspective rather than being corporate mouthpieces. This is their real power. Compared to bigger marketing heavyweights there are many diverse and niche micro-influencers; offering a direct line of communication straight to markets that may be difficult to reach without the Tellscore system.

    “Micro-influencers are vital because of the extent of social-media engagement. In Asia, Thailand is leading the way with 47 million Facebook users which accounts for nearly 70% of the population. According to Facebook, in Southeast Asia, that figure is around 241 million users. In just over a year, Instagram users in Thailand have risen from 3.2 million to 9 million. Southeast Asia is gathering pace at an impressive speed when it comes to online and mobile connectivity.”

    Anyone with social media followers and an opinion can become a Tellscore micro-influencer and be notified of incoming campaigns from brands that are relevant to them, which they are then able to create and share meaningful stories that resonate amongst their followers, while they benefit from paid work. Micro-influencers add credibility to brands through their role of trusted friend that can earn them anywhere between THB 100 – 50,000 for a content share or product review depending on their level of engagement and number of followers.

    Tellscore’s campaign management tool assists both brands and influencers in managing their busy schedules when it comes to launching a campaign. The platform helps reduce campaign setup time for brands and provides influencers with a scheduled timeline to share their content. Both Thai and English language micro-influencers are being actively sought prior to the Thailand launch.

    Tellscore expects to reach up to 30 million reachable consumers by connecting micro-influencers with top brands via the platform. Tellscore’s widening their digital reach in Thailand and potentially beyond by the end of 2017.  Tellscore has invested THB 50 million towards this platform, which includes design and development, licensing costs, and other technology fees.

    Marketers signing up to Tellscore can start a campaign and collaborate with any number of micro-influencers of their choice immediately, with no tie-in obligations or locked-in contracts; ideal for product launches, marketing campaigns, breaking news and any campaign that seek to reach out to real audience instead of a temporary digital buzz. The Tellscore automated platform ensures that micro-influencer content is relevant and trusted so consumers listen rather than activating consumers’ default setting of ignoring branded content, loud advertisements and traditional advertorials. 

    Current brands marketing through Tellscore’s platform include Thai Wacoal and Dutchmill, with many other businesses getting online too. Meanwhile, micro-influencers range from individuals and bloggers with 500-10,000 followers and A-lists such as Nang-Prod-Kong-Kha-Prajao, movie review page (1,085,415 followers), Job-Khao, news synopsis page (563,750 followers), Sapai-Pae, travel page (500,324 followers), Tem-Khor, soccer fans page (263,045 followers), Pai-Donnnn, eat and travel page (112,251 followers), Cocopsyche, beauty blogger page (104,765 followers) and many more.  

    With micro-influencers reaching out to consumers in an engaging way, their opinion and content can prove to be invaluable, especially to those budget conscious brands or that looking for new ways to effectively influence their target markets.

     

  • Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery Kick off the Tourist Mid-Year Promotion

    Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery Kick off the Tourist Mid-Year Promotion

    The exclusive cool deals await tourist shoppers as Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery, Bangkok’s three major shopping destinations, has just launched
    the Tourist Mid-Year Promotion offering a lot of exciting deals and a rewarding experience from now until July 31, 2017.

    As the ultimate all-in-one-place shopping destination and entertainment attraction in Bangkok, Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery offer a truly remarkable experience for all walks of life

    while inviting tourist shoppers to enjoy exclusive tourist privileges and  a wide variety of special offers  from Tourist Mid-Year Promotion from now until the end of this July.

    Simply register “Tourist Card” and receive a complimentary voucher valued at Baht 200 to enjoy

    a world of flavours at My Kitchen located on the 4th Floor, Siam Discovery. My Kitchen offers everyone a new social dining experience with a variety of great taste from five well-known restaurants namely Nara, Kuppadeli, Café Chilli, Man Fu Yuan, Yuzu by Yuutaro and a super chic café Brix Dessert Bar.

    Moreover, making your vacation even more fulfilled by spending more to receive a value of money special gift. Just spend a minimum purchase of Baht 5,000, receive a limited edition elephant clutch while spending  a minimum purchase of Baht 10,000, receive a travelling bag and VIZ Titanium member card.

    Tourist shoppers just present their valid passport at any information counter at Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery or Tourist Lounge located on G floor of Siam Paragon for registering “Tourist Card”. Tourist Card holders will enjoy up to 30% discounts  on regularly priced merchandises at participating shops ranging from fashion, beauty, wellness, lifestyle to dining at these 3 shopping centers. Tourist Card holders will be also entitled to up to 6% VAT refund for their purchases at these 3 locations.  Valid until the end of December 2017.

    Get ready for a great time of shopping and super savings.

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  • ICONSIAM supports the building of “Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center”

    ICONSIAM supports the building of “Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center”

    Through many years, ICONSIAM has a policy of responsibility towards society, the environment, and culture by contributing to the sustainable development of local communities and the long-lasting co-existence with the Chao Phraya River. Hence, ICONSIAM continues to fulfill its missions related to social development throughout the three projects, namely the conservation of natural resources and the environment of the Chao Phraya River in the vicinity, the sustainable development of the communities and their unique local wisdom, and the preservation of the precious culture and traditions of the people living along the Chao Phraya River generation after generation.

    ICONSIAM has cooperated with the Urban Design & Development Center (UddC), Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Community, including homes, temples, schools, and government agencies in Kadeejeen-Klongsarn community, and the PPCP (public-private-community partnership), which comprises of governmental agencies and private organisations, in particular religious leaders in communities including  Buddhist Chief Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawat Phra Brahmapundit, Head to Goowatin Islam Mosque Imam Nawin Sasanakul, and Assistant Abbot to Santa Cruz Church Father Anthony Ekkachai Soratchakit, to co-work and draw development plan for establishing “Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center”.

    Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd, said another key aspect of ICONSIAM’s CSR activities lies in the contribution to the development of the communities sustainable. ICONSIAM has foreseen that the project will create benefit for the communities and society, so that the company has taken part to the Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center project since 2015. During the past two years, ICONSIAM has seen the community strength and unity, and so proud of being part of the community center’s initiative in Kadeejeen-Klongsarn areas. Moreover, ICONSIAM highly expects that the center will be a pilot project and be as a model for other communities’ development. The center will not only be learning and knowledge exchange information center, but also preserve tradition and culture, as well as promote eco-tourism, and increase incomes for people in the communities to have better living standard

    Assistant Professor Niramon Kulsrisombat, director of the Urban  Design & Development Center (UddC), said that the initiative for establishing of the Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center came from the realization that the areas is one of the oldest communities in Bangkok-Thonburi, which have deep and strong background. During the past 10 years, people in the communities and outside the area have created many activities to rehabilitate this neighbourhood to become lively again. Yet, temporary activities have its limitation and most are not permanent, it could not reach the development target in tangible outcome, despite people in the communities and other organisations have gradually increased their cooperation. As a result, people in Kadeejeen and Klongsarn communities have initiated an idea to establish “Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center” (KK Center) as social areas and gateway for visitors to reach the area.

    Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Center which will be completed in establishment in 2018 is located on an area of over 250 square meters of the Memorial Bridge adjacent to the riverfront court of the City Law Enforcement Department, which is where Kadeejeen and Klongsarn meet. It is one of the strategic areas to serve the communities as having every kind of transportation including road and water ways, and railway in the near future. The Kadeejeen-Klongsarn Community Center will serve as public utility areas and as the gateway to these communities as well as a starting point for tourists and general people who are searching for information and exchange idea and knowledge about these areas. In addition, the center will also serve as a showcase for products from these communities.

  • Chearavanont family keeps crown as rich Thais get richer

    Chearavanont family keeps crown as rich Thais get richer

    The Chearavanont brothers, led by Dhanin Chearavanont, honorary chairman of Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, Thailand’s agriculture and food conglomerate, remain the wealthiest family in Thailand this year, according to Forbes magazine.

    According to the Forbes list of Thailand’s 50 Richest in 2017, more than two-thirds of the tycoons saw their wealth increase, with the top five notching the biggest dollar gains. The collective net worth of Thailand’s 50 richest is US$123.5 billion, up 16% since 2016.

    The CP Group’s net worth includes shares owned by Mr Dhanin and his three brothers, Jaran, Montri and Sumet, who are the biggest gainers in dollar terms, adding $3 billion to their wealth to retain the top rank with a net worth of $21.5 billion.

    CP Group has operations in Thailand and overseas with core businesses involving agribusiness, retail and telecommunications. The empire now falls in the hands of Mr Dhanin’s two sons after he decided to step down earlier this year.

    His youngest son, Suphachai, succeeded him as chief executive of CP, while his eldest son, Supakit, is chairman of CP Group, overseeing CP’s business in China.

    Second on the wealth list is TCC Group chairman Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, who grew richer by $1.7 billion, making his net worth $15.4 billion.

    In April, Mr Charoen announced the largest property investment in a single site in the country with One Bangkok, a 120-billion-baht business district at the intersection of Rama IV and Wireless roads.

    Coming in third is the Chirathivat family, which operates retail businesses under the Central Department Store brand, as well as hotels and property, with $15.3 billion, up $2.3 billion.

    Central Group, under chief executive Tos Chirathivat, restructured its management board late last year by bringing in a number of key professionals, including former central bank governor Prasarn Trairatvorakul, to run the group’s operations and brace for increasing challenges in retail business.

    This is the first time the 70-year-old company recruited outsiders to help manage group business, which has a combined sales revenue estimated at 320 billion baht.

    A notable gainer on this year’s list is duty-free tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who moves up from No.7 to No.5 with $4.7 billion in wealth, up from $3.25 billion in 2016.

    Mr Vichai replaces Vanich Chaiyawan, a founder of Thai Life Insurance Co, whose rank dropped to No.7 as his net worth dipped by $200 million to $3.8 billion.

    Also dropping in wealth are Prasert Prasarttong-Osoth, a major shareholder of Bangkok Airways and Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Plc, and beer baron Santi Bhirombhakdi.

    Indian-born plastics tycoon Aloke Lohia emerged in 10th place to replace former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The net worth of Mr Lohia, chief executive of SET-listed Indorama Ventures Plc, one of the world’s leading makers of polyethylene terephthalate, rose to $1.75 billion from $1.2 billion in 2016.

    The rich list was compiled using shareholding and financial information obtained from the families and individuals, stock exchanges and analysts, the Stock Exchange of Thailand and regulatory agencies. The stock market rose by 12% in the past 12 months.

    Newcomers to this year’s list include poultry producer Winai Teawsomboonkij (No.35), who founded Thaifoods Group; Itthipat Peeradechapan (No.44), founder of SET-listed Taokaenoi Food and Marketing; and Nutchamai Thanombooncharoen (No.46) of Carabao Group.

  • Shiseido and King Power executes sense of place campaign

    Shiseido and King Power executes sense of place campaign

    Shiseido Travel Retail has partnered with King Power International to deliver a major promotional campaign seeking to capture the unique attractions of Thailand, which will launch the beginning of next month.

    The initiative saw the Shiseido brand collaborate with Thai artist Riety Darisa K and influential Chinese fashion and lifestyle blogger Magic Yang to target Chinese travellers through a 360° programme that included compelling social media and digital content, high-profile in-store activations and travel-retail exclusive products available only at King Power Thailand stores.

    Thailand is one of the most popular overseas destinations for Chinese tourists and the most popular getaway destination during Chinese New Year, with the campaign seeking to appeal to the lucrative Chinese millennials market. Yang, who has a significant social media following, resonates well with the market, regarding her as a key reference point for her personal style, inspired by her love for travel and adventure and the places she visits.

    Yang featured in a promotional film, The Beauty of Thailand, in which she was taken on a tour of the Thai capital Bangkok, featuring subtle references of Shiseido products, as she used some of the products from the brand’s travel-retail range. Her favourite product picks – Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate, Perfect UV Protector SPF 50+ and Rouge Rouge – were presented through three short videos illustrating the product features, adding further impetus to the campaign. Behind-the-scene pictures of her trip to announce the collaboration as well as the film were posted on her popular Weibo and WeChat social media accounts.

    The campaign was strongly supported by King Power Thailand, with amplification on the travel retailer’s website and social media platforms, a dedicated campaign micro-site, as well as advertising that targeted travelers prior to departure.

    The digital activation created significant buzz ahead of the 1 April unveiling of the in-store activations in King Power Thailand’s main store at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport and in the King Power Srivaree Complex (downtown) store. The airport activation, which runs until 31 May, centres on a pop-up store offering complimentary skincare treatments and lip makeovers, as well as a Photo Booth installation where travellers can personalize their photos with Riety’s Thai-inspired visuals to be printed onto their very own customised luggage tags.

    Providing further differentiation and adding to the Sense of Place focus, Shiseido has developed an exclusive skincare set specially curated by Yang and packaged in bespoke sleeves featuring art by Riety. Available only at King Power Thailand stores, the limited edition set includes Magic’s skincare favourites: Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate for Face, which strengthens skin’s health and its ability to resist signs of ageing; and Perfect UV Protector SPF50+/PA++++, featuring powerful sun protection technology that increases in efficacy upon contact with water or perspiration. Customers spending bt14,000 or more can receive a ‘The Beauty of Thailand’ cosmetic bag as a gift with purchase, while those spending more than THB 16,000 can claim an additional Shiseido tote bag.

    King Power International Senior Executive Vice President Susan Whelan said: “King Power International Group has been the leading retailer and duty free airport and downtown operator for several decades, and have always championed partnership initiatives with our leading supplier partners. At the same time, we are passionate about sharing the Kingdom of Thailand’s rich history and unique culture with the world, and we have been instrumental in developing and supporting cultural initiatives throughout this time.”

    “This exciting collaboration initiated by Shiseido perfectly encapsulates the wonders of Thailand, as seen through the eyes of our talented homegrown artist Riety and prominent social media personality Magic Yang,” she continued. “We are delighted with this opportunity to not only strengthen our long partnership with Shiseido, but also enhance our all-important tourism links with key visitors from China.”

    Shiseido Travel Retail vice-president Marketing Elisabeth Jouguelet commented: “Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for Chinese tourists – it is not only a beautiful and enthralling country but a true retail destination in its own right. Through our strong partnership with King Power International and collaboration with Riety and Magic Yang, we have been able to create a platform which brings a genuine Sense of Place to our retail activation. With compelling and engaging content driving awareness of the unique experiences to be enjoyed in Thailand, coupled with the appeal of TREX products and offers at King Power Thailand, we believe this initiative brings together the best of destination marketing and travel retail in a very powerful combination.”

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  • YouAppi expands offices in Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand

    YouAppi expands offices in Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand

    YouAppi, a leading mobile growth marketing platform for premium mobile brands, today announced the expansion of the company’s Indonesia office led by Southeast Asia Country Manager Anna Mareta.

    YouAppi, founded in 2011, is a leading global growth marketing platform, enabling marketers to find the right mobile users at the right price. From brand awareness to user acquisition, brand and rewarded video, and re-engagement of inactive users, all with advanced anti-fraud functionality, YouAppi’s OneRun provides an all-inclusive mobile growth solution.

    YouAppi has been working with Indonesian marketers, agencies and publishers since early 2016, and now, with an expanded local office in Jakarta, the company will exceed expectations by an even greater amount in supporting the needs of local partners in the region.

    Anna Mareta, YouAppi’s Southeast Asia Country Manager, will lead YouAppi’s Indonesia office. She joined YouAppi in April 2016 from Adknowledge Asia Pacific. Anna’s team will also manage YouAppi’s activities in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

    The 700% growth rate achieved in 2016 in Southeast Asia has made the region one of YouAppi’s leading global markets in terms of app installs, made possible by premium global, Asian and Indonesian marketers. Clients in Southeast Asia include Blanja, a marketplace joint venture between eBay and Telkom Indonesia, Hooq, a video on demand streaming service backed by Sony Pictures Entertainment, Warner Bros. and Singtel, and Tokopedia, a marketplace backed by SoftBank and Sequoia Capital. Other YouAppi clients in Southeast Asia are in telecommunications, utilities, entertainment, news and other categories. YouAppi also works with leading publishers in Southeast Asia including PicMix and 8Elements.

    “Streaming service Hooq turned to YouAppi seeking qualified Android users in Indonesia, establishing a high registration rate as the target KPI for the campaign. Tapping into YouAppi’s extensive direct inventory sources utilizing OneRun’s predictive algorithms and machine learning technology, the company was able to exceed Hooq’s KPI and deliver a 130% achievement ratio,” said Sandro Simanjuntak, Head of Digital Marketing Hooq Indonesia.

    “YouAppi fulfilled our KPI, which enabled us to stay the #1 Shopping app in Indonesia on Google Play while also providing collaborative & passionate success management,” said Ignasius Igor Rendy, Internet Marketing Lead, Tokopedia.

    “What attracted me to YouAppi is the company’s commitment to Asia in general, and to me and my team in Indonesia specifically,” said Anna Mareta, the Country Manager for YouAppi Indonesia. “From a superior technology platform – YouAppi’s OneRun – to technology, media and support teams around the globe ready to answer any question 24 x 7, 365 days a year, YouAppi is the growth marketing solution for Asia.”

    “With Southeast Asia being one of YouAppi’s strongest global markets in terms of user installs, I’m thrilled with the work Anna has done, which is why we’ve expanded her team to better support this important market for YouAppi,” said Moshe Vaknin, CEO & co-founder, YouAppi. “We began 2016 by committing to Asia, and after generating over 700% growth last year, we’re supporting our commitment by re-investing revenue generated in Southeast Asia to grow our team.”

    By improving the mobile experience for marketers and publishers around the world, YouAppi is enjoying strong global revenue growth driven by the company’s success in Asia. Proof of the company’s success can be found in the 16,700 campaigns run for 485 leading advertisers via 110 billion monthly impressions served around the world over the last four years. YouAppi’s OneRun Platform offers one single point to streamline mobile media buying, combining the power of machine learning with the company’s proprietary predictive algorithms, which analyze over 250 terabytes of data every day.

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  • Private jet market warming up

    Private jet market warming up

    The news that Thai Aerospace Services has been chosen by Honda as the distributor of HondaJet in the SE Asian market has caught public attention.

    HondaJet was launched in December 2015; the manufacturer received 100 orders from all over the world.  The plane is offered to businessmen who want to save time on traveling. It entered the US market after FAA granted a certificate on meeting technical requirements.

    A representative of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) said CAAV has not received any information from Honda about bringing HondaJet to Vietnam.

    To put a new airplane model into exploitation, manufacturers will have to work with local aeronautical authorities and fulfill procedures to obtain a license.

    Besides, every aircraft has to satisfy a series of requirements to obtain two other kinds of certificates, including ownership registration and certificate on meeting requirements to fly.

    The manufacturers also have to prove they can satisfy requirements on radio communication systems.

    “This is important for small private airplanes, because the planes have low flying range. They make noise and affect residential quarters if they fly at night,” an official from CAAV explained.

    For the last 10 years, Vietnam has been the target of many private plane manufacturers and lessors, from luxury planes such as Bombardier Inc (Canada) to helicopters such as Azur Helicopter (France).

    Analysts commented that Vietnam is a market with the number of super-rich people expected to increase by 170 percent in the next 10 years, to 540. The super-rich are defined as ones with total assets of over $30 million.

    The analysts said it would not be a problem for Vietnamese businesspeople to spend several million dollars to buy airlines. Doan Nguyen Duc, a well-known businessman, once owner two private airplanes. However, the maintenance costs and the licensing fee are big challenges.

    Jet owners will have to obtain licenses for every flight, while the owners of helicopters with low flying range will have to obtain approval from the Ministry of National Defence.

    Some years ago, Jussi Hoikka, Commercial Manager of Vinacopter, a distribution firm,  commented that though the Vietnamese average income per capita remains at “low average” level, the demand for private aircraft in Vietnam would soar in the time to come.

    One of the Vietnamese businessmen who first ordered a private helicopter in Vietnam is Chair of the Hoa Phat Group, Tran Dinh Long.

    Long placed the order about the private helicopter with Eurocopter, of which Vinacopter is a subsidiary, in Singapore in 2008.

  • One2car.com launches vehicle inspection service

    One2car.com launches vehicle inspection service

    One2car.com, the largest and most trusted website for new and used cars in Thailand and part of the iCar Asia Thailand network, has officially launched its new vehicle inspection service, which will be carried out by a certified and professional inspection team. Each team member has undergone a Vehicle Inspection Training program, providing added assurance that the inspection is being conducted in accordance with engineering standards and procedures.

    Peace Chongseeha, Head of Inspection Department at one2car.com, said this service will raise confidence in the buying and selling of used cars on one2car.com’s portal and build trust with customers.

    “This service provides assistance to every used car buyer and seller. Buyers visiting the website to purchase a car can use this service to have the car inspected so they can make an informed decision before buying to make sure they are making a good investment. For sellers, using this service prior to listing their car for sale, will assure potential buyers of the good condition of their car”, he explained.

    The vehicle inspection service includes four core safety components:

    • Vehicle body or frame inspection: to ensure no serious accidents or collision compromising structural safety have occurred
    • Modifications inspection:  to check there has been no modification in the vehicle frame and body
    • Submersion inspection: to check that the vehicle has never been submerged underwater
    • Fire inspection: to check that the vehicle has never been on fire

    A 21-page report is provided after the inspection is completed and the results can be posted on one2car.com’s website free of charge for any car using this inspection service. An inspection sticker is also available to place in front of the vehicle to confirm that a physical vehicle inspection was performed. Buyers can request this report from the sellers, thereby facilitating the transaction process.

    One2car also offers additional inspection services including frame check, exterior check, paint thickness check, interior check and passenger amenities functionality check, vehicle systems functionality check with OBDII, engine and equipment check, battery check and  underbody, tyre, wheel and brake check.

    Pornladda Dathratwibul, iCar Asia Thailand’s Country Manager said that this new service allows one2car.com to provide a comprehensive auto service as required by buyers and sellers of used cars.

    “This service offers convenience and benefits both buyers and sellers, providing both parties with trust and credibility which can also help seal the deal. Most importantly, this inspection is carried out by a highly qualified inspection team, headed by an automotive engineer, armed with 20 years of experience and training in Germany with major vehicle brands and inspection training institutes, including vehicle design and modifiction.”

    “Our vehicle inspection process covers all essential areas and is conducted in accordance with high standards of engineering guidelines, which makes our service unique and exceptional from other service providers. With One2car.com’s vehicle inspection service, buyers and sellers can be reassured and confident of a trustworthy service,” she added.

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  • ‘Durian & Fruit Fest’ scheduled for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket

    ‘Durian & Fruit Fest’ scheduled for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket

    By focusing on the “King of Fruits”, the durian, the company says it hopes to encourage fruit consumption on an international level.  Together with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Commerce Ministry and Central Pattana, Central Food Retail is organising the “Thailand Amazing Durian & Fruit Fest”. More than 300 Thai fruits and fruit-based processed foods will be served in buffet lines taking place in three popular tourist destinations, Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

    Phattaraporn Phenpraphat, executive vice president for marketing and public relations at Central Food Retail, said Thailand’s excellent geographic location and pleasant climate created its potential to cultivate tasty fruits of fine quality, which are much appreciated by both Thais and foreigners.

    Fruit exports generate major income for the country. In March last year, the Office of Agricultural Economics forecasts that production of durian, rambutan, mangosteen, longan, langsat and lychee would total more than 2.3 million tonnes.

    As the operator of a supermarket business, Central Food Retail is an expert in selecting fresh, delicious and quality fruits from all over the country to provide to consumers. Last year, about 7,000 tonnes of 66 domestic fruits from 62 provinces were sold, the top 10 being banana, watermelon, other melons, durian, orange, mango, pineapple, papaya, longan and rambutan.

    This year, the company targets overall sales of 10,000 tonnes in 232 branches (as of May).

    The company hopes durian will be a selling point to promote this year’s Fruit Fest, boost Thai fruit consumption and attract more tourists.

    Last August, a durian buffet was held for the first time in Thailand – that month was in the late season for durian in the Eastern region and the harvest season in the South. Feedback from the event was excellent, the company says.

    Of the participants, 70 per cent were Thais and 30 per cent foreign tourists, mostly Chinese. According to a survey, the tourists were very pleased with the durian buffet. They said the price was reasonable and they wanted to come back if the buffet were to be organised again.

    “The company was really satisfied with the event last year,” Phattaraporn said. “It created a signature and an image of Thailand as the world’s destination for tropical fruit. Therefore, we are making the durian buffet one of our main events this year.

    “With the intention of encouraging fruit consumption and attracting tourists, we are cooperating with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Ministry of Commerce and Central Pattana to promote the event and create awareness among target markets, using two main strengths: the 17 types of durians and the locations of the buffets, namely Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.”

    At the event, there will be two zones, a buffet zone and a farmer’s market. In the buffet zone, there will be various kinds of Thai fruits, led by Monthong durian, the “Queen of Fruits” or mangosteen, rambutan, lychee, watermelon, banana, and papaya, along with more than 11 fruit products such as coconut water, Thai sticky rice with mango, and coconut-milk ice cream.

    In the farmer’s market, the highlights of the event will be gathered, for example, E-nak durian from Rayong province, which is quite rare, Koh Chang Chanee durian, durian Tteokbokki, durian Bingsu, crispy mangosteen, durian macaron, and durian Chinese pastry. Overall, there will be about 300 products in both zones.

    The Thailand Amazing Durian & Fruit Fest will be held in as follows:

    • Bangkok from May 24-31 at the Square A area in front of CentralWorld;

    • Chiang Mai from June 7-13 at the courtyard in front of CentralFestival Chiang Mai

    • Phuket from June 28 to July 4 at the courtyard in front of CentralFestival Phuket.

  • Central Food launches new format in Thailand

    Central Food launches new format in Thailand

    The parent company of Tops Supermarket, Central Food Retail (CFR), will invest Thb1bn (US$29.37m) in a new format Tops Plaza, and 176 new Superkoom supermarkets.

    The leading Thai retailer told that the new format will be community shipping mall, with the first to open in Pichit this year, and another in Payao next year. CFR also plans to open 178 Superkoom supermarkets this year, bringing its total operations of the discount supermarket to 200.

    Phattaraporn Phenpraphat, CFR executive vice-president for marketing and public relations, told that the company had strong sales growth in the first quarter of the year, both from existing stores and from new Superkoom, Tops Daily and Tops Market store openings.

    “Our sales growth of 3.02 per cent in the first quarter exceeded the industry growth rate,” she said.

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