Shopping Centres in Bangkok, Thailand

[KatoeyLover69]

The latest Shopping Centre to be opened in Bangkok was the SIAM PARAGON, a 5,000,000 sq ft centre, which officially opened on 8 December 2005.

Here's the latest report on SIAM PARAGON from The Nation (Thailand) dated Monday 19 December 2005 :-


BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR: All the work pays off for Mall Group head


Supaluck put the fruit of long experience into making newly opened Siam Paragon a magnet for big spenders at home and abroad.

Pleased with opening day, top Mall Group executive Suplaluck Umpujh, 46, said: “I’m very happy with the outcome”, as 400,000 customers passed through the doors of Siam Paragon and about 100,000 have visited the complex each weekday since.

Siam Paragon has achieved its objective of improving its portfolio as a major source of long-term revenue, in addition to creating a major shopping destination for customers in Southeast Asia.

Three years in the making, the Bt 14-billion company has entered the world-class shopping sector where all top brands want to make their presence felt. With only 60 tenants, the shopping complex has yet to truly flex it muscles, but Supaluck’s brainchild has already altered the face of Thailand’s retail business.

Siam Paragon is a wake-up call to retailers, particularly Central Group, that they need to develop investment plans and renovate premises to maintain clients and lure new customers, and they are now paying close attention to how Supaluck’s plans affect their turf.

Siam Paragon was conceived after the success of The Emporium.

“Siam Paragon is The Emporium’s sibling. They are like New York and Paris, which everybody wants to visit,” she told Lips magazine.

Without Supaluck, the new complex would not have been completed. Throughout her 20-year career in the retail business she has flexed her muscles to attract world-class brands to make it a reality, or the “ride of Bangkok”.

She learnt the hard way that “size matters”. Her first mall at Rajaprasong was small, and few merchandisers participated because big retailers demanded exclusive deals. Few products meant few shoppers, and after five years the outlet folded.

Supaluck learnt never to do something small and always to differentiate.

She told herself to open The Mall on Ramkhamhaeng Road where various entertainment venues for families such as theatres and big water parks, the first in Thailand, were available. It was successful, and four more branches followed in Ta Phra, Ngam Wongwan, Bang Kapi and Bang Khae.

The success encouraged her to create a high-class shopping centre that targeted high-end shoppers. However, business people expected the deal to fold in the short term because it seemed unaffordable to Thais. The Emporium is still the Garden of Eden where global and luxury brands have made their way into Thailand and has inspired other retailers to develop other luxury shopping complexes.

It was tough, especially when the Skytrain was not available. She had to hire a consultant from New York to develop advertising and point out how strategically located the shopping complex was. The Emporium eventually attracted the Bluebell group, consisting of Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and other brands.

Supaluck pulled out all the stops to come up with a business strategy including marketing, selling and negotiating skills, which she has inherited from her father. In addition, she said, one has to be fair and trustworthy, prepared to take a risk and show luxury tenants that one is serious in building success with them.

“She’s an energetic businesswoman who always comes up with unexpected and creative ideas,” said The Emporium’s managing director Kriangsak Tantiphipop.

Today she is still energetic, for she knows that she has to work hard to make Siam Paragon a success in the face of the challenges presented by rivals such as Central Group.

Siam Paragon could become a magnet for shopping in Southeast Asia, but Supaluck needs to deal not only with local retailers but with deep-pocketed foreign shoppers too.

By Nitida Asawanipont
The Nation
19 December 2005

[KatoeyLover69]

Comments on Siam Paragon :-

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/board/thaiso/view.php3?id=576&offset=0

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation on Saturday 10 December 2005 :-


SIAM PARAGON: Optimism as complex opens doors

Giant mall hopes to draw high-end foreign visitors. The Siam Paragon Shopping Complex had its grand opening yesterday amid hopes that the new development will attract more high-end spenders to the Kingdom. Although less than half of the 350 retailers opened their shops, Kriengsak Tantiphipop, chief marketing officer of Siam Paragon Development Co Ltd – the operator of the upmarket complex – said he was delighted with the event.

“Today is a great day for everybody in the company. We started the Siam Paragon project three years ago and now the dream has become reality. We envisaged a world-class shopping phenomenon in Bangkok and today it has come to fruition,” he said.

Kriengsak said that more than 80 tenants would open their largest flagship stores in the complex, representing about 40 per cent of total retailers in the plaza.

The complex also incorporates a “Beauty Hall”. Occupying retail space of more than 5,500 square metres, the cosmetics and fragrances zone offers an outstanding selection of products from more than 100 leading brands, including La Mer, Estee Lauder, La Prairie, Givenchy, Paris Hilton, Stella McCartney and Erno Laszlo.

Iwan K C Hew, managing director of Yafriro International, an exclusive luxury watch boutique, yesterday opened its Bt50-million 212-square-metre flagship store in the complex.

“We waited for almost five years to open our flagship outlet in Bangkok and the opening of Siam Paragon has fulfilled our expectations, thanks to its prime location in the heart of Bangkok,” Hew said.

The company is the exclusive distributor of 12 luxury watch brands, including Parmigiani Fleurier, DeWitt, Bovet de LaCour, BRM, Jacob & Co, Greubel Forsey, Michel Jordi, Hautlence, Vincent Berard, HD3 and Jean Dunand. Prices range from Bt250,000 to Bt20 million.

Leading mobile-phone operator Advanced Info Service Plc (AIS), together with major telecom equipment suppliers, have jointly set up an AIS Future World centre to showcase futuristic wireless technology.

The Bt100-million centre occupies 600 square metres on the fourth floor of the complex. AIS is currently equipping the centre with hi-tech equipment in time for the official opening next Thursday.

Among the highlights at the centre is a theatre with 360-degree screen, a play zone, and a technology exhibition zone.

Oranuj Wongprecha, managing director of Pre & Prom Co Ltd, a distributor of exclusive luxury cosmetic brands, said: “I was amazed by the opening ceremony of Siam Paragon. All streets in Bangkok seem to lead to Siam Paragon.”

Pre Prom retails luxury cosmetic brands, including Philosophy, Make Up For Ever and Erno Laszlo in the Beauty Hall on Floor M. Prices range from Bt2,000 to more than Bt10,000.

Mattel Inc, the world’s leading toy-maker and manufacturer of world-famous Barbie products, revealed its latest fashion collections for kids at the complex.

Sony Thai also opened its flagship store named “Sony Style” on the second floor.

A senior Sony Thai executive said that this would be the first “Sony Style” shop in Thailand. Sony has such shops in many cities in Japan and Malaysia, as well as Hong Kong and Singapore.

“At Siam Paragon we will showcase our Sony goods ranging from Vaio computers to still and camcorder cameras, LCD television sets, PlayStation Portable, and high-definition products such as cameras and TVs.

“Sony technical experts will be at the showroom to provide information and consulting services to our customers,” he said.

Sarun Limsawadiwong, chief executive at Ideas Design Collection Co Ltd, the operator of @Home furniture store, said the company had opened a new concept of @Home furniture store on the third floor of the complex.

The company markets luxury and modern-style imported furniture brands, including Flos lighting products, Zanotta, Dema and Driaoe furniture from Italy, and Fritz Hansen furniture from Denmark.


By Kwanchai Rungfapaisarn
The Nation
Saturday 10 December 2005

[KatoeyLover69]

Websites about Siam Paragon :-

http://paragonbangkok.tripod.com/


http://www.siamparagon.co.th/

[naemlo]

Websites about Siam Paragon :-

http://paragonbangkok.tripod.com/


http://www.siamparagon.co.th/


Another place to c chio thai gers....... :D

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated 10 December 2005 :-


STARRY-EYED WELCOME FOR PARAGON : Complex will boost tourists' spending

By SUKANYA JITPLEECHEEP & SUJINTANA HEMTASILPA

Bangkok's business and social elite turned out in force yesterday to the launch of the 15-billion-baht Siam Paragon, the country's newest shopping mall.

Building began at the 52-rai plot in 2003, and the complex now features an opera house, an aquarium, cinemas and bowling lanes, as well as 250 retail boutiques featuring brands such as Hermes, Gucci and Chanel.

Several newcomers have also made their debut in the Thai market at Siam Paragon, including jewellers Van Cleef & Arpels and Mikimoto, and fashion brands such as Spain's Zara and Italy's Roberto Cavalli.

Siam Paragon boasts 500,000 square metres of space and is located in the heart of the city, flanked by the Siam Centre and CentralWorld malls.

The project was the brainchild of Supaluck Umpujh, aged 50, and Chadatip Chutrakul, 44, two female giants in the Thai retail industry.

Ms Supaluck, the vice-chairwoman of Siam Paragon, was the project innovator, while Mrs Chadatip, the chief executive, managed the project, keeping costs and schedules on target.

They say it was a perfect partnership to see through the challenge of a lifetime.

''I was taught by my father that to solve a problem, you have to experience it yourself,'' Mrs Chadatip said.

To prove this, her father, Gen Chalermchai Jaruwat, a former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, came up with a unique way of teaching her how to swim _ he threw her in the pool.

Mrs Chadatip, who joined Siam Piwat, the operator of Siam Discovery and Siam Centre over a decade ago, agreed retail management had its own peculiar learning curve.

''Eventually, I was able to overcome all of the problems. It's not easy to succeed in this business. It's not just a question of selling space to tenants. You have to help them survive and prosper as well,'' she said.

Ms Supaluck was also taught how to compete by her father.

''To win the game, it's not enough to just walk or run to catch up with your competitors. You have to leap as far as possible. And to make a leap, you have to be the pioneer as well,'' Ms Supaluck said.

Ms Supaluck eight years ago gained new ground in the retail market with the opening of The Emporium complex, a luxury mall blending retail boutiques and entertainment.

She said she expected Siam Paragon to generate 10 billion baht in sales in its first year, with some 100,000 visitors expected each day.

Juthamas Siriwan, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said she believed Siam Paragon would strengthen Bangkok's position as a regional shopping destination.

Tourists who had previously gone to Singapore or Hong Kong to shop would instead extend their stay in Thailand and take advantage of what Bangkok has to offer, she said.

Shopping done by overseas tourists is expected to account for 30% to 32% of total tourism revenue, estimated at up to 425 billion baht this year, up from 27% three years ago.

[Cunnosieur]

Hi Bros


Wanna check out...that somewhere in Chinatown, Yaowarat, there is this shopping centre that sells mainly SOFT STUFF TOYS like teddy bears, dolls, etc.

Can anyone tell me the exact name of the complex???

Kenna ARROWED to buy back TOYS for many uncles n aunties kids...jak lak....
:eek:

[KatoeyLover69]

If you are looking for computers, computer accessories, PDAs, digital cameras,softwares, DVDs/VCDs/CDs the place to go to is Pantip Plaza at Petchburi Road at Pratunam Area in Bangkok.

Computers, TV's, cameras and similar items can be good value in Thailand, but you'll be hard pushed to find one with high quality components selling for significantly less than in the US / Europe. Overall, you're probably better off buying at home than in Thailand, as although you may spend slightly more, you are much more likely to get decent after sales or a refund in case of problems in Europe/US than in Thailand. On the other hand, if you're looking to buy computer peripherals then you can get some good deals in Bangkok, and repairs can be done similarly cheaply.

The best place to go for any type of computer shopping is the multistory Panthip Plaza on Phetburi / Petchburi Rd in Pratunam district (not far from the Amari Watergate hotel). Prices are very cheap and the range extensive, but not all the vendors speak a lot of English.

Though there are a wide range of computer related products on sale, Panthip is most (in)famous for the huge amount of pirated software available. There are literally dozens of different vendors selling hacked versions of software programs, and even the most up-to-date software is available amazingly quickly. Microsoft Windows XP, for instance, had been available in Panthip some weeks prior even to it's official launch in the USA, let alone in Thailand.

As well as software, pirated versions of all of the top Hollywood movies are also available on DVD or VCD, as are compilation MP3 CD's with around 12 albums on each (right). Each CD/VCD/CDROM costs only around 100-150B, as the intense competition helps to keep the prices low. The DVDs cost around 300B or so, and may or may not have had the regional coding removed.

The Thai government, under pressure from the USA, has periodic crackdowns on Panthip Plaza, but they never seem to last very long. The only lasting effect of the crackdowns seems to be that all the pirated material is no longer kept with the vendor, but is instead in a building down the street and is retrieved when someone makes a purchase.

With a bit of searching, it is possible to also find software originals on sale but prices are no bargain compared to the USA/Europe.

Panthip Plaza is very popular and, particularly on weekends, it can get very crowded.

There are few other malls throughout Bangkok with a similar, but smaller, range of products on sale:

Hollywood IT, which is located only 100m or so away from Panthip and is very close to the Ratchathewi skytrain station.

Seri Center, near Seacon Square.

IT Mall, in the Fortune Tower on the intersection of Ratchadapiskek road and Asok-Din Daeng road, is another option.

Ordinary buses 2 and 11 and air-con buses 5, 11 and 12 all pass outside of Pantip Plaza, or any taxi driver will know it (it's pronounced as pan-tip). You may also find Panthip written in English as 'Pantip' (including on the building itself), but 'Panthip' is the more common elsewhere and, according to the official way of romanising Thai, the correct spelling.

[KatoeyLover69]

More info on Pantip Plaza in Bangkok

For those of under the belief the particular country you come from is the pinnacle of high technology, a visit to Pantip Plaza will be a revelation! Pantip Plaza is 5 floors plus of IT heaven! Although prices are not as low as in countries such as Singapore, computers and related devices are state-of-the-art and prices are probably a shade lower than in the west. Where a place like Pantip Plaza excels is in locally made computers – just read through lists of components, tick what you want, and wander around the shops getting the best quotes. These ‘prefabricated’ computers are probably as good as any brand name but obviously won’t have the after sales service, especially if you are taking a computer out of Thailand (check customs in your own country first!). There is also a good variety of software at good prices – there’s not as much in terms of pirated software here these days and there are regular police checks to ensure things are kept in line. Probably best all round to look for the legitimate stuff. In addition to computers and software, Pantip offers as wide a selection of digital cameras, digital video cameras, VCD/DVD players and PDAs as you will find. In addition, you can buy clothes here, and on the ground floor there are a number of shops selling Buddha amulets and local folk music CDs.

If you are into IT leave your credit cards back at the hotel or you might have to cut your journey to Thailand seriously short!

Details: Pantip Plaza is open around 10:00 to 20:00 daily.

How to get there: Pantip Plaza is on Petchburi Road right next to the Indonesian Embassy. It’s reasonably close to Ratchathewi BTS station.

The following buses will get you there:Bus number: 511

Contact: Pantip Plaza
New Petchburi Rd.
Rajthevee
Bangkok
10400

Website: http://www.pantipplaza.com/

[KatoeyLover69]

Pirated softwares in Pantip Plaza :-

PANTIP PLAZA :Business as usual
No visible efforts to prevent open sale of pirated software in Pantip Plaza, Bangkok

Getting Windows 2000 for 3.30 US$ might seem like a bargain already. But as the operating system is not taking up all the space on a CD-ROM, the pirate-copyists has added other software programs as a bonus!

You do not have to stand in a dark alley and say "Psst!" to buy pirated software or know somebody who knows somebody. Just walk straight into Pantip Plaza, the largest computer-shopping mall in Thailand, and you will find shop after shop openly displaying CD-cassettes ("jewel-cases") with everything you might need. The CD itself is not inside, but at request it is brought to you in 5 minutes. Microsoft's software seems to be the most popular target, but virtually any producer of software is amply represented.

"It's good business, but it used to be even better" says Samran (not real name) to BizAsia. "The competition is getting harder all the time. Some years ago a pirate-copy CD could sell for 600 Baht (~ 17 US$) Now you can get 120 Baht (3.25 US$). Some shops even tried to lower the price to only 80 Baht (2.15 US$) but they got unpopular!"

But as a blank CD costs below 1 US$ the profit on pirated software is still the best in Pantip Plaza. "Normal hardware profits can be as low as 3% and is only in special cases higher than 10%. In addition comes installation time and guarantee."

Earlier a couple of policemen on inspection got beaten up by angry pirates. "I have a family to support" says Samran. "I know that copying like this is wrong, but I think Bill Gates is not hungry!"

Samran also believes that the state of matters actually is in the producer's own interest. "Sometimes we see software with an advanced protection sceme. When you install it a new code is generated every time. To open this software more than 25 times you have to submit this code and your serial number to an authorized reseller. Then you get a code back that you must enter to continue using the software. Otherwise it won't work. But the result is simply that people use something else. If they then later get into a corporate context, well, they buy the software they know already. The day Microsoft would stop the illegal usage of software they would be playing into the hands of their competitors!"

Business Software Alliance ("BSA") who acts against copyright violations has earlier with the police raided a couple of companies in Bangkok and in advertisment encouraged people who would know about illegal software installations to call.

The usual outcome of the raids has been a settlement where the company accept to legalize their software, pay a fine and allow for future inspections.

Copyright violations can in Thailand be punished with jail up to 6 months.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 19 December 2005 :-

CENTRAL EARMARKING B 10b TO GROW ABROAD : Indonesia, Vietnam Philippines in plans

The Central Group plans to invest 10 billion baht to expand its hotel and shopping centre businesses in Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines over five years. Suthikiati Chirathivat, vice-chairman of the Central Group and also executive chairman of Central Plaza Hotel, said the company planned to open a Central hotel at each of the shopping plazas to be developed by affiliate Central Retail Corporation overseas.

The first prospective location for a city hotel at a shopping plaza is probably Indonesia, followed by Vietnam. The new hotel in Jakarta would have 200-300 rooms and could able to create about 300-450 jobs, he said.

Mr Suthikiati said that according to the group's survey, there is a huge potential for the hotel business in Jakarta because there are no big hotel chains located at large shopping complexes in the capital.

``Though, there are many international chains providing services there, we are confident that we can compete with them because we have been in the hotel business for 27 years and we have already competed with all of the chains in Thailand.''

He added that the company was in the process of considering the details of the expansion plan for its hotels in markets abroad. Given Central's experience in Thailand, he said the company had very capable executives, who were well suited and skilled for a competitive marketplace.

Apart from the Central Group, other large Thai investors in Indonesia include Banpu Plc in mining, the Charoen Pokphand Group in agribusiness and PTT Plc in energy development.

The value of investments from Thai operators in Indonesia was estimated at $65 billion by Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in an address on Thursday in Bangkok.

A market analyst at Central Retail Corp said Indonesia was attractive for investment because of its large population of more than 200 million, an improving business environment and economy.

``Furthermore, the Indonesian hotel industry is less competitive as there are only small hotels available at retail sites,'' said Mr Suthikiati.

Meanwhile, Mr Suthikiati said the company would continue its domestic hotel expansion plan, signing a contract with Siam Commercial Bank for a 2.5-billion-baht loan tomorrow.

The funds will be used to build a five-star hotel with 505 guest rooms at the Central World site in Bangkok, which is scheduled to be opened in late 2007, targeting the Mice (meeting, incentive, convention and exhibition) market.

Sales of the five core businesses of the Central Group of companies in the year 2005 are expected to grow by 14% from the same period last year. The company declined to disclose the actual figure.

Central projects its food business to grow by 20.6%, followed by property development at 14%, retailing at 13.5%, trading business at 12% and hotels 3.5%.

Mr Suthikiati explained that the growth of the hotel business had been modest because the company had to delay on the opening of its five-star, 192-room Central Krabi Bay Resort.

The company will hold a soft opening for part of the Krabi property starting tomorrow.

By Sukanya Jitopleecheep
Bangkok Post
Monday 19 December 2005

[Ah_Hia]

Heard some kiddo fell and got hurt or something like that in Siam Paragon.....
Sad....

[KatoeyLover69]

Bangkok - Shopping Areas

Siam Square - Siam Center - Siam Discovery Center
Restaurants, theaters and shopping, shopping and more shopping. The air-condition is refreshing after a walk in this busy city. Cinema tickets are often a little more expensive than elsewhere in this country, but the seats are extremely comfortable. Go to Siam Square by taxi, tuk-tuk or by sky train (named BTS - Bangkok Mass Transit) to Siam station.


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MBK - Mah Boon Krong
Next to Siam Center and Siam Square. This shopping center has some of the lowest prices you can find in Bangkok. Everything from mobile (cellular) phones to clothes and even food can be bought here. Absolutely a store that we recommend. Go there by sky train to Siam Station or by taxi or tuk-tuk.
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Chinatown
Markets, food and all kind of businesses is what you will find in Bangkok's Chinatown. Chinatown is one of the oldest areas in Bangkok and the Chinese settled down here about 1780. Yaowarat Road is one of the streets that we recommend you to visit. The Thieves Market, or Nakhon Kasem, has good prices on antiques, second hand, electronics and many other products and goods. Go there by taxi, tuk-tuk or boat on Chao Praya river.
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Pantip Plaza
The largest computer store in Bangkok. All equipment and accessories you might possibly need for your computer. Or why not buy a new PC, Mac or laptop. There are often very reasonable prices. Just mind that the warranty is maybe only valid in Thailand. Located on Thanon Phetburi (Phetburi Road) rather close to Siam Square.
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The Emporium
The store you should visit if you are into luxury, fashion and "quality shopping". There is no problem to find your Versace suit and a Cartier watch here. But window shopping or purchasing less expensive items can also be an alternative if your wallet aren't that big. The Emporium is located on Sukhumvit Road, Soi 26. Go by taxi, tuk-tuk or sky train to Phrom Phong Station.
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Khao San Road
This street used to be the backpacking "Mecca" of South-East Asia, and to some extent it still is, even if you find all "type" of tourists here nowadays. Here you will find clothes, bags, cd's, tourist agencies, silver and a lot of "souvenirs" etc. Do not forget to bargain.
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Markets
We recommend Bobe Market and Pratunam Market if you want to buy cheap clothes. The Bobe market is reachable by canal taxi boat, taxi or tuk-tuk. Pratuam is close to Amari Watergate hotel. Take a taxi, tuk-tuk or the sky train to Chit Lom Station to get there. Do also read about the Thieves Market in Chinatown above.
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[KatoeyLover69]

P A R T 1

Chao Phraya Tower Shopping Arcade

Offers designer boutiques, leather shops, Thai silk shops and art galleries. Opens daily from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. It is located at 23 Rongnamkhaeng Lane (next to the Shangri-La). Telephone 237-0077.


Mah Boon Krong Center

Built in 1986, this 7-story high and 300 meters long complex was the biggest shopping center in Bangkok. Mah Boon Krong Center (MBK), next to Siam Square, is a window on popular culture. (Not that you'll find much to buy, unless you're looking for plastic shoes, polyester dresses and counterfeit watches.) It's very Thai and always bustling, while the upscale malls seem to echo. On the upper floors, dozens of shops are dedicated to the second-most-important status symbol - the mobile phone (the first being Mercedes).

Nowadays, it's still one of the busiest. You can find almost anything you can imagine here ranging from cheap clothing to the pricey home furniture in the market-style atmosphere in air-conditioned comfort. With newly opened entertainment center on the seventh floor, where you can find 7 movie theaters and 40 lanes bowling alley, all thse make MBK the one stop destination. New look for the new millenium has been added to both interior and exterior.

MBK center is open daily from 10 A.M. to 9 P.M. It is located on the Southwest corner of Phyathai and Rama I Road. Teophone 217-9111.


Oriental Plaza

Exclusive with international fashions, art galleries and jewelry. Daily 10 am-6 pm. It is located at 301 Charoenkrung Soi 38, New Rd. (next to the Oriental Hotel). Telephone 236-0411.


Pantip Plaza

The ultimate source for computers, pirated CDs, electronics. It is a five-story mall with shop after shop selling computers and electronic gear. Usually there's nothing (except pirated software) that can't be found cheaper in Hong Kong and much cheaper in the U.S., but because of the Baht devaluation, computers and printers are temporarily at bargain prices. This is the place to go to get all the computer stuff you need - Hardware, Software, video games, MP3 music, VCD and DVD movies. If what you want is a cheap CD packed with a bunch of new software application, you have come to the right place. Known to the Thai computer lovers as a place you can buy cheap pirated software, Pantip Plaza is also the ultimate source for electronics. Five-story mall with floor after floor of computers and electronic gear. If you can't find any computer product you want here, it probably won't exist.

Take a taxi there. Most shops open around 10:30 A.M, and although they are open unitl 8:00 P.M., don't go later than 3 P.M. unless you want to spend hours in a traffic gridlock. It is located on New Petchburi Road between Phyathai and Ratchaparop Roads (close to Pratuunam Market and Amari Watergate Hotel).


Seacon Square

Seacon Square, Asia's largest Shopping and Entertainment Complex and one of the world's five largest, opened on Srinakarin Road of eastern Bangkok. One of the most outstanding and eye-catching of the city's shopping complexes, Seacon Square with a total building are of 500,000 square meter, a facing running 700 metres along Srinakarin Road, equivalent to 96 football fields.

The city zone incorporates the bright and lively colors of the busy shopping complexes. The Main Atrium is a meeting place, completed with greenery, a bubbling fountain and statues; while the nature zone's decoration and design exemplifies the natural environment.

Seacon Square is for the whole family to enjoy with a whole host of diversified attractions including Robinson Department Store, Lotus Supercenter, amusement theme park "Yoyo Land", multiplex cinema "Seacon 14", International Book Forum, DK Books - reputedly the biggest bookstore in Thailand. Thailand's first motion simulation theatre "The Simulator", an 18-hole miniature golf course, international food court and 400 leading brand name shops.

Few will want to waste an entire day battling traffic in order to visit this remote, American-style mall. It's not far from the BITEC convention center. It is located at 904 Srinakarin Road. Telephone 721-8888. For more information, click here or visit "www.seaconsquare.com"


Siam Square

This square is the cluster of Sois (alleys) jammed with independent shops and stalls selling music, fashions, clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories. The area also has several book-stores stocking leading publications and plenty of restaurants. The plaza converted from parking lot, Center Point, is now the hot spot where the youngsters come to see and to be seen. Along Rama I road, you can find 3 movie theaters in which one named Scala still plays movie in the 1000-seat grand theater style.

It is the area on Rama I between Phaya Thai and Henri Dunant Road.


Siam Center

Near the Siam Inter-Continental and Siam Square, is Siam Center, a huge complex filled with restaurants, flower shops, movie theatres and such famous names as Gucci, Lanvin and Polo. One of the very first shopping center in Bangkok, Siam Center was a place where teenagers came to hang out with friends. Nowaday, it is still a place where the young and young-at-heart go for trendy fashions. Top local fashion designers and brand name labels can be found here.
The Siam Square District - Bangkok's shopping and entertainment hub, bursts with excitement day and night. Here you will find some of the city's most vibrant shopping centers including the new Siam Discovery and World Trade Center, cinemas, restaurant and nightclubs, all within walking distance. Siam Square is also conveniently located close to the city's two major Silom and Sukhumvit Roads business districts, Chulalongkorn University and major tourist attractions such as Jim Thompson's House and the Erawan Shrine. It's the very pulse of energetic Bangkok. It is open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. Located at 965 Rama I Road. Telephone 251-1890.


Siam Discovery Center

Siam Discovery Center is situated at Pathumwan intersection, one of the busiest shopping and leisure area in Bangkok, next to the Sky Train BTS station and 15+ public bus routes with 2,500 cars parking facility. Located on the 6th and 7th floor of Siam Discovery Center is Grand EGV, the most comfortable, grandiose and up-to-date movie theater in Thailand. Grand EGV also has a 1,600 sq.m. of retail spaces called 'Movie Walk'. The area provides the space for over 50 retail stores under the 'Movie Art Gallery Theme'.

It is located at 989 Rama I Road and open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Telephone - 6581000-19.

to be continued / ..............

[KatoeyLover69]

P A R T 2

World Trade Center

The World Trade Center encompasses many shops, restaurants and an ice-skating rink. A 330,000 square meter shopping mall with 2 prestige department stores (Isetan and Zen), 300 plus retailing stores selling almost everything from designer clothes and expensive jewelry and watches to rare antiques and brand new automobiles. Jim Thompson's silk shop is also located here. The Thailand duty free shops are located on the 7th floor. Other facilities include a 1,800 sqare meter world-class ice skating ring and 11 mini movie theaters.
There is a Japanese department store, Isetan.

It is open daily from 10:00 A.M to 9:00 P.M. It is located at 4 Rajdamri Road. Telephone 255-9400.


Peninsula Plaza

This French-style multi-storey building is one of a very first upscale shopping plaza in Bangkok. Located between Grand Hyatt Erawan and The regent Bangkok, The Peninsula plaza houses imported brand name labels, jewelleries, top local fashion designers and gourmet shops.

It is located on 153 Ratchadamri Road and open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Telephone - 2539672-3.


Amarin Plaza

Once a popular shopping plaza among Thai shoppers and foreigners, Amarin Plaza is a location of the first McDonald in Thailand. Radio Shack and Starbucks also have their presence here. Sogo Department Store presents its Japanese-inspired goods in modern glitter.

It is located at 494 Phloen Chit Road and open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Telephone - 255-0831.


Gaysorn Plaza

Gaysorn Plaza is an international level shopping centre located in the heart of Bangkok's shopping and leisure district. Surrounded by over 11 luxury hotels, over 500,000 square metres of office space, and numerous department stores and shopping centres. Open in December 1994, Gaysorn Plaza is a seven floor complex with a total built area of 42,000 square metres - three floors of executive offices on top of four and a half storey retail podium ( 12,500 sq.m.), and two and a half floors of parking for 415 cars. Planet Hollywood in located in Gaysorn Plaza and it is just beside Narayana Phand.

It is located at corner of Phloen Chit and Ratchadamri (Ratchaprasong intersection) and is open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Telephone - 656-1149.


Old Siam Plaza

This shopping center is located near Wang Burapa and Pahurat and very close to Chalerm Krung Theater. The shops in this complex are quite modern and products of all kinds are sold here. There are also many restaurants, fast food outlets serving delicious Thai cuisine and Thai sweets. A lot of shops selling guns, pistols and ammunition are located in this plaza and in the area around this building.


River City Shopping Complex

It is Bangkok's first river side shopping complex. At the River City Shopping Complex, you’ll find a veritable feast for your shopping experience. It is home to Bangkok’s arts and antiques center and over 150 shops selling quality Thai products from Thai silk and cotton, jewellry, home décor, paintings, leather, tailoring to souvenirs from all parts of the country.
You can have a special meal set at one of the range of international cuisine restaurants and enjoy the splendid view of the Chao Phaya River both day and night.

They also have river tours that are catered to all your needs, be it a ride through Bangkok’s canals, a cruise to various attractions or a delightful dinner cruise. Under one roof that you can have them all -- the River City Shopping Complex.

A free shuttle boat operates to and from hotels on the river, including the Oriental, Shangri-La, Royal Garden Riverside, Royal River and Menam Hotel. They are located beside Sheraton Royal Orchid Hotel. For more information, click here or visit "www.rivercity.co.th"

[KatoeyLover69]

Shopping Areas and Places in Bangkok

Shopping is major attraction for visitors to Thailand and of course Bangkok is one of the best places in the country for shopping!

Literally everything you can think of is available in the capital, with most goods at prices you can afford. Alongside its markets and shops, Bangkok has some great department stores and shopping centres where anything from shirts and trousers to gems and technology are available. Some shopping centres cover everything; places like MBK sell an enormous range of goods, while others concentrates on particular types of goods – Bangkok’s Pantip Plaza, for example, is world famous as an outlet for every type of computer technology. Explore further and you can find entire neighbourhoods specialising in certain goods - Khao San Road, for instance, specialises in silver goods while its’ neighbour China Town features gold shops and Chinese herbs and medicines.

Worth seeing

If you are in Bangkok for a longer visit consider visiting more shopping areas and places.


SIAM SQUARE

Over the last few years Siam Square has become the zenith of shopping experience in Bangkok. As the name suggests this is a square stretching out to Rama 1 Road, Chulalongkorn University grounds and Henri Dunant Road. It is packed with every variety of shop and predominantly caters to Bangkok’s young and beautiful. This is not a place for discount buys – the clothes and accessories here are likely to be full price, and you may be left wondering where these young people get their money from! Home to Bangkok’s addition to the Hard Rock Café franchise, Siam Square is also full of pubs, clubs (CM2 for one), hotels (such as the Novotel) and small cafes and fast-food outlets. Bangkok’s British Council is in Siam Square. This has a good library if you want to spend some quiet time. There’s also a couple of cinema’s playing the latest Hollywood blockbusters. To add to its convenience, the square is connected by walkways to surrounding shopping centres such as Mah Boon Krong (famous for sales of mobile telephones and related technologies). Siam Square is also famous for Centre Point – a meeting place for the young which offers music from live bands and a multitude of little cafes where you can buy your designer teas and coffees. A radio station pumps music out of loudspeakers at all hours during the day and evening. If you want to sit and watch TV, there’s a giant LCD screen right in the middle of the square! Although Centre Point is strictly for the young and trendy, Siam Square’s shopping experience is a must for everyone. Expect to spend at least half a day here.

How to get there: By far the quickest way to get to Siam Square is by BTS – Siam Square is the main interchange station. A taxi from the central Bangkok will cost 50-60 Baht depending on traffic.

The following buses will get you there:

Bus number: 15, 16, 21, 25, 29, 34, 36, 40, 45, 47, 48, 54, 73, 79, 113, 20,
Air-conditioned bus number: 1, 2, 8, 28

[KatoeyLover69]

P A R T 1

We are living in the Sukhumvit area, and can give some advice regarding good locations to buy your groceries and things you may need while living in Bangkok. Now, we will not compare prices at all locations (except supermarkets), but concentrate on those venues that can be easily used by public transport (that is the skytrain and the subway), or on foot. This is not exactly what most tourists need, but may be of help to those who stay in Bangkok for a longer time.


Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
Along Sukhumvit road there is ample choice as to where to buy your groceries and daily necessities.

The best choice by far to do this is at Foodland in soi 5. It is open 24 hours a day, and actually busy at most times. The reason for being a best choice, is that you can find most necessary items and food here at lower prices than about anywhere else (except of course local markets) There is also a quiet busy restaurant counter for a quick reasonable lunch or dinner. It is located close to the entrance of the soi, and the only thing against it, is that the local environment is not optimal, that is, there are prostitutes and people who seem to loiter around (doing what exactly?) in abundance around the area, giving it somehow the appearance of semi-criminality. If you do your groceries, and have to take a taxi back to your hotel or apartment, you will still be better off than being things closer to home.

Tops Supermarket (at Robinson Department Store, soi 19) is more fancy, has a foodcourt, but prices inside the supermarket are much more than you would pay at Foodland. In effect, even when discounts or promotions are given, prices are still usually higher than at Foodland. Of course, you are at Robinson, and can do some shopping inside the department store.

You can get a membercard at Tops and will be asked to present it each time you buy things. There are regular discounts for members only (some discounts are borderline, but sometimes there are some really good deals). Furthermore what you spend is tallied, and after spending a certain amount, you will get a discount voucher.
We noticed something somewhat disconcerting during one of our last visits to Robinson. We felt the need to express our opinion about services in the 'fresh vegetables' section. Unfortunately, even after asking few of the employees, we could not find any mailbox where customers could mail their suggestions or complaints for the store. This seems almost inappropriate, since any major business or shopping center can learn a lot from listening to its customers.

Villa Market around soi 33, is the original supermarket in the area, and popular mainly with foreigners. It is expensive though, but you can find some items here that are not easily found at other supermarkets, even though the store itself is not especially large. The have a large bagel collection for one thing, and also a large wine collection on the second floor.

Closeby on the upper floors of Emporium Department Store (connected to the skytrain) is a rather fancy supermarket offering lots of attractive wares, especially a large collection of fruits and vegetables, and Thai food, you do not find easily elsewhere. It is not as expensive as one would expect (in view of its location at Emporium) but possibly build as an afterthought, since getting your things from the upper floors to street level and Sukhumvit Road is a chore, if you do not have a car parket in the basement.

Hypermarkets, offering cheaper goods, sometimes in bulk, and also cheap clothes and other necessities can be found when taking the subway. Tesco-Lotus is located at Rama 9 station, while Carrefour (and also a Robinson Department Store) is located at the next station, at Thailand Cultural Center.

Emporium (at Phrompong Skytrain Station) is an upperscale shopping center with many fashion and designer brands. It also houses a department store, supermarket and movie theatres.


Seven Elevens are ubiquitous in Bangkok and can be found at the beginning of most sois, and on the main streets. We think there are about 2,000 of these stores in Bangkok alone, and most are doing a good trade. Wares are somewhat higher than in supermarkets, but the shops are quite convenient when you need only a few items like cola drinks or a beer.

Department Stores
Central Chitlom is easily reached (connected with the skytrain station at Chitlom) and offers a lot of fashionable clothes and toiletries. As most other department stores, there seem to be continuous promotions and discounts (instead of lowering the prices the whole year, as would be more appropriate). It has also a Tops supermarket connected to it on the first floor, and as most Centrals it also includes Super Buy (electronic goods), and a large collection of sporting goods.

Emporium (located at skytrain station) is even more upmarket if possible, and offers a lot of shops besides its department store. The place is large, but has the advantage of having a lot of space to walk and hang around, which is what a lot of people actually do.
Siam Square offers more like a large collection of smaller shops (a lot of clothes outlets), besides a lot of fast food restaurants. It is the place to go if you want to see 'cute' Thai girls (and metrosexual boys), who dress up just within acceptable levels. This is where you will find the largest collection of girls who are hanging around, displaying invariably parts of their buttocks (low cut trousers), when making the slightest movement. Please do not make the assumption that this has actually anything to do with 'availability', it is just being cool and showing off.

To be continued ...........

[KatoeyLover69]

P A R T 2

Going to Chatuchak weekend market

Both the skytrain and the subway can bring you all the way to Chatuchak nowadays, and going there is certainly a must if you are interested in Thai artefacts. You will find lots of cute things there to decorate your house at modest prices, besides cheap clothing. The place is also (in)famous for its trade in pets and animals with all that is connected to it, like pet food and accessories. But take your bottles of water with you, it can be really hot out there, and there are masses of people around. It is open during weekend days only.

Computers : Hardware and Software

If you want to check out computer outlets in Central Bangkok, we can recommend two major centers :
1) Pantip Plaza
Pantip Plaza is located a 5 minutes walk from Ratchathewi skytrain station

2) Fortune Town
Fortune Town is located at the Subway station called Rama IX
(computer shops on the third and fourth floors)

In both centers, you will find lots of computer hardware and accessories, as well as supplies of software and games. Both centers are famous for having pirated computer software of about everything, but the last year or two, there has been a well intended crackdown on pirated software. Nevertheless, while we certainly do not recommend buying it, there seems still to be a regular supply of software at 150 baht a disk. The best deals may be the compilation disks of mostly freeware and shareware, that can contain tens and tens of useful items on one CD. We recommend fullheartedly to buy the games that are available for instance at Zest. Popular computer games (legal version, only to be sold in Thailand) can be had for 350-600 baht, a real bargain.

At both Fortune Town (4th Floor) and Panthip Plaza (upper Floor) we recommend a visit to IT City outlets, where you can find most things you are looking for (except software) under one roof.

Hardware Stores
There are two important hardware stores around town : HomePro and Homeworks (this one associated with Central Group).

An HomePro outlet is located at Wave Place, conveniently connected with the Phloenchit skytrain station. There are both a HomePro and Homeworks (in Robinson store) located close to Thailand Cultural Center subway station. At that area you will also find a Carrefour and Robinson Department Store, so it is actually a big shopping area, but you will not find many foreigners there, even though it is quite easily reached nowadays.

At both HomePro and Home Works, you will find lots of 'do-it-yourself' equipment, bathrooms, kitchens, tiles, garden equipment, construction equipment, electrical hardware and the like. If you buy a sufficient amount (for instance to install or redecorate your bathroom), they will also provide service in checking thing out, and providing you with the labor to do it at nominal or low costs.

Furniture
For the newcomer to Bangkok who is looking for new furniture, we would suggest you visit MBK- Center (formerly known as Mahboonkrong). On the fifth floor you will find ample choice of both cheap and upmarket furniture. As far as we know, this is the largest collection in Central Bangkok you will find. 10% discounts on the suggested price seems to be standard. MBK center can easily be reached by skytrain, a little walk from Siam Square. Best is to take the connection to National Stadium, and take the walkway into MBK from there.
(this is NOT an advertisement, just free advice)
Pathumwan Princess hotel is located at MBK-Center.[room rates starting from 75 USS]

Mobile Phones
If you need anything done on your mobile phone, want to buy one, or need any mobile phone accessories, we suggest you wander around MBK Center and check things out at the different outlets there. The fourth floor seems to have tens of shops where you can be helped. Possibly you will be better off if you can speak the language, but you can try to get around in English.
MBK center can easily be reached by skytrain, a little walk from Siam Square. Best is to take the connection to National Stadium, and take the walkway into MBK from there.

Another place where there are a lot of phone outlets, is at Fortune Tower (lower floors), located at Rama 9 subway station (closeby on the upper floors lots of computer hardware and software, as well as a Tesco-Lotus hypermarket)

Sportswear :
Sportswear both cheap and expensive is widely available throughout Bangkok. For large stores, you can visit virtually any Central Department Store or Robinson Store, and head for the SuperSports section, where you will find all kinds of apparel sportswear, tennis and golf equipment, sneakers from all major brands like Nike and Adidas.

At Fortune Town (on the basement floor), there is a large store called Sports World, with also a big choice of the above goods, although we did not see a Nike section on our last visit.

Fortune Town is located at the Rama 9 station of the MRTA subway. Around Nana, next to the entry to the skytrain (on Sukhumvit on the side with the uneven numbered sois), you will find two stores that sell shirts from famous soccer clubs. Whether they are original or faked, we do not know. Prices in those shops may be a little bit high, so walk around on Sukhumvit in the adjacent area, and you may find some street vendors selling the same outfits at a price of around 300-400 baht a piece. In the past we have bought these soccer shirts from some young relatives, and found them to be of good quality.

[KatoeyLover69]

P A R T 3

Fast food, bread and the like :
McDonald's can be found all around town. Other burger fast food restaurants have not fully developed, so you will have to stick with this one. Prices are in our opinion extremely low. Example, one hamburger + one cheeseburger + medium French fries goes for about 85 baht.

There are many Pizza outlets around town, the two most available being Pizza Hut and The Pizza Company. Their wares are very similar, and when compared to McDonald's their prizes are higher.

Finding reasonable bread in Bangkok is difficult. As far as we know there are no proper bakeries anywhere to purchase standard 'usual' fresh bread. Most bread you can buy is industrially made and tastes as such. Furthermore, standard bread bought in supermarkets is usually sweetened, sometimes with honey. You can find somehow acceptable bread at the 'Boulange' bakeries available in most Tops supermarkets.

The best bagels in town are at Au Bon Pain outlets. The outlets however are not widely scattered around town. There is one somewhere in the back at the ground floor of Discovery Center (Siam Square), and one at Bumrungrad hospital. The branch that is most conveniently located is close to the exit of the Silom station of the subway. But our experience indicates that now regularly bagels are sold out at most times of day. Possibly best to get them as early as they open in the morning.

Reasonable, but somewhat sweetened bagels can be found at Villa Market (close to Phromphong skytrain station).

Pretzels can be found at Foodland (Sukhumvit soi 5), and if you can find them also at the 'Boulange' bakeries of Tops supermarkets.

Danish rolls and baked goods are a clear disaster. Just looking at the contraptions will make you loose your appetite. Somehow though, they seem to be popular with Thai people. You will find Danish with mayonnaise spread out on top, if that is something you favor.

Subway has opened a few outlets in Bangkok and they are available close to Nana on both sides of Sukhumvit road, and at the beginning of soi 23, Sukhumvit road. Now, Subway seems to position itself as providing healthy food, but while we enjoy their sandwiches once in a while, we also understand that they are partly to blame for overall obesity in the U.S.A. This in view of the size of their servings. For some reason also, there are no basic ham or cheese sandwiches available. Instead, cheese is added to any bread you order, adding another 150-200 unnecessary calories. Maybe our American friends do not know better, but in our opinion the six different breads to choose from all basically taste the same, and have the same texture. The bread is obviously designed for eating without chewing first, and that way is perfectly suitable for edentates. Possible at least one choice of bread should be just a little bit chewy.

Actually the best fresh bread can be found at Indian and Arab restaurants. If you are not islamophobic we can recommend one restaurants where you can buy freshly baked flat Arab bread made in front of your eyes. It is located in soi 3/1 (a small soi in between soi 3, which is the wide road at Nana intersection, and soi 5 Sukhumvit Road, where Foodland is located). Just walk into the soi, and after about 50 meters on the left you will find Petra Restaurants. It looks like a back entrance to the restaurants, but as far as we know, it is the front entrance. Order a few flat breads, it will be done in a few minutes. Then get one or two portions of hummus, and you will have a very decent healthy meal (maybe you can ask not to put olive oil on top, and use your own oil at home, just to avoid spilling the oil while going home).

[KatoeyLover69]

Shopping by the Rules

When you shop in Thailand, set aside your traditional approach to shopping. Our guidelines below will help you seek out treasures in the most pleasurable way, with the least amount of wear and tear on you.

1. The most important shopping areas are concentrated in the central business districts and a few outlying suburban areas. We recommend staying at a hotel in close proximity to the main shopping streets in the center of town.

2. Concentrate your shopping on a few shopping areas within close proximity of each other each day.

3. Prepare to walk a great deal within each shopping area, but use transportation to go from one shopping area to another.

4. Use the Skytrain, taxis, or hotel cars when traveling within or between shopping areas.

Our rule of thumb: If we must walk more than one kilometer, we take the Skytrain, taxi, or boat, or we rent a hotel car and driver by the hour, half-day, or day.

5. Take your rain and sun gear with you whenever you go out. Thailand's hot, humid weather can be unpredictable!


6. Expect to shop in two very different shopping cultures which require different shopping skills. The world of fixed prices is familiar to visitors from the West, but the second shopping culture consists of shophouses, markets, and hawkers, tending to be disorganized and require bargaining.


7. The day and night markets can be colorful and fun to shop in, but only if you are open to sights, sounds, and smells not normally found in other shopping sites.

8. Most department stores and some shopping centers primarily cater to the shopping preferences of local residents rather than to foreign tourists. You won't find a lot of quality products in these places, although there are a few exceptional shopping centers in Bangkok that target foreign visitors and Thailand's upper class.


9. The best quality products are invariably found in the major hotel shopping arcades and a few shopping centers with a reputation for quality.


10. Expect to get the best prices on locally produced items that use inexpensive labor.

11. Don't expect to get something for nothing.


12. Ask for assistance whenever you feel you need it.


13. Don't be surprised if some shopkeepers take a lot of your time in developing a personal and long-term relationship with you. Business in Thailand is still a set of personal relations.

[KatoeyLover69]

Map of Sukhumvit Area

http://bangkok2night.com/maps/sukhumvit.shtml

[KatoeyLover69]

Map of Ratchadapisek Road :-

http://bangkok2night.com/maps/ratchdapisek.shtml

[Malaysian Datuk]

Bro KTL69, din know you posted such an informative thread here.....I used to remember the good old days when MBK was the biggest shopping centre in Asean (an honour previously held by our very own Holiday Plaza before circa 1980) :D

[KatoeyLover69]

Map of New Petchburi Road :-


http://bangkok2night.com/maps/new_petchburi_road.shtml

[KatoeyLover69]

If you intend to spend 3 or more days in Bangkok, I suggest that you take some time off from your shopping and other activities to visit the famous 58-hectares Lumpini Park ( at Rama IV Road) to 'recharge your batteries'

Lumpini Park web-sites :-

http://www.bangkoksite.com/Parks/LumpiniPark1.htm

http://bangkok.thailandtoday.com/leisure/05_0003_lumpinipark.html


PROFILE OF LUMPINI PARK :
Named after the Buddha's birthplace in Nepal, this is Bangkok's largest and most popular park. The park is bordered by Rama IV Road to the South, Sarasin Road to the North, Witthayu Road to the East and Ratchadamri Road to the West, with entrance gates on all sides. A large artificial lake in the center is surrounded by broad, well-tended lawns, wooded areas and walking paths. In other words, it is the best outdoor escape from Bangkok without leaving town.

This 360-rai (58 hectare) plot of land was formerly known as the Sala Deang field, and was the private property of King Rama VI. In 1925, the King donated the land to the nation to be used as a public and fair ground. The Siamrath Phiphithapan Trade Fair held here to promote Thai producta among Thais and forigners was discontinued after the death of the King Rama VI.

One of the best times to visit the park is in the early morning. Suan Lumpini is a place of moods rather than sights. In the morning it's full of people exercising. More striking and graceful than the joggers are Chinese tai chi groups, making slow movements to music. Along the gates, vendors set up tables to dispense fresh snake blood and bile considered a health tonic by many Thais and Chinese. Rowing boats and puddle boats can be rented at the lake. A weight-lifting area in one section becomes a miniature "muscle beach" on the weekends. Other facilities include a snack bar, several areas with tables and benches for picnics and a couple of tables where ladies serve Chinese tea. Rest rooms are placed at intervals throughout the park.

Koh Loy or Floating Island
King Rama VI arranged for example of native plants from all regions of the country to be planted here for the education of the people.

Royal Monument of King Rama VI
Located at the park's main entrance. Alumni of Vajiravudh College built the memorial with the additional funding from the government of F.M. Plaek Pibulsongkram and public donations.

Clock Tower
This Chinese style structure was built in 1925 as preparations for the Siamrath Phiphitthapan Trade Fair.

Public Library
This is the first public library in Thailand. It has 30,000 books and has opened audio and visual educational services, promotions to encourage reading, and book exhibitions etc.

OPENING HOURS:
Daily 4:30am-8pm

COST:
Free of Charge
Boat Rental at Bht30/Half Hr.

FEATURE:
- Bangkok's largest and most popular park
- Koh Loy or Floating Island
- Royal Monument of King Rama VI
- Clock Tower
- Public Library

GETTING THERE:
BUS
- 4, 13, 14, 15, 17, 25, 45, 46, 47, 62, 67, 74, 76, 106, 109, 115, 116, 149, AC4, AC5, AC15, AC62, AC67, AC76, MC14, MC17
BTS - Sala Daeng Station

DO & DON'T:
- Do join in an early morning exercise of "Tai Chi"
- If you dare, do try fresh snake blood and bile

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS / FACILITIES :
Accommodation »
- Dusit Thani
- Pan Pacific Bangkok
- The Sukhothai Bangkok

Food & Restaurants
- Soi Polo BBQ Chicken
- Anna Cafe

Nightlife & Entertainment
- Patpong
- Lung Suan Pubs

Shopping
- Robinson Department Store
- Silom Complex
- Jim Thompson Silk Shop

Sightseeing
- Lumpini Thai Boxing Stadium
- Snake Farm

Additional info :-

Lumpini Park, Bangkok

Lumpini Park is the biggest park in the central business district and is a favourite amongst office workers for early morning jogging and early evening aerobics (an instructor leads an aerobics session every evening around 17:00-17:30). The park is also popular with ethnic Chinese who practice ‘Tai Chi’ – a curious slow motion exercise derived from the martial arts. The park has a huge central lake with paddle boats and is sometimes the venue for musical performances. A trip to the park can be combined with a visit to the statue of King Chulalongkorn as well as a trip to the Lumpini Night Bazaar. You can also purchase snake blood and bile from vendors in the park – highly regarded as health tonics amongst ethnic Chinese.

Details: The park is open daily from 05:00 to 20:00. Admission to the park is free.

How to get there: Lumpini Park has entrances on Rama IV Road, Ratchadamri Road and Witthayu (Wireless) Road and is within easy walk of Silom Road. The nearest BTS station is Saladang and the nearest MRT Silom/Lumpini. MRT is probably the easiest way to get there. A taxi fare from the centre should cost around 40 Baht.

The following buses will get you there:

Air-conditioned bus: 4, 547

Bus number: 14, 17, 46, 47, 50, 115


Some more info :-

Named after the Buddha's birthplace in Nepal, Lumpini Park is Bangkok's largest and most popular park. The park is bordered by Rama IV Road to the South, Sarasin Road to the North, Witthayu Road to the East and Ratchadamri Road to the West, with entrance gates on all sides. A large artificial lake in the center is surrounded by broad, well-tended lawns, wooded areas and walking paths. In other words, it is the best outdoor escape from Bangkok without leaving town.

One of the best times to visit the park is in the early morning. Suan (Park) Lumpini is a place of moods rather than sights. In the morning it is full of people exercising. More striking and graceful than the joggers are Chinese Tai Chi groups, making slow movements to music. The practitioners of Tai Chi who can be seen in Lumpini Park every early morning (around 5 AM-7:AM) put less strain on their bodies' circulation. Tai Chi is a rather soft Chinese form of exercise, healthy not only for the body but allegedly also for the mind.

Along the gates, vendors set up tables to dispense fresh snake blood and bile considered a health tonic by many Thais and Chinese. Rowing boats and puddle boats can be rented at the lake.

A weight-lifting area in one section becomes a miniature " music beach" on the weekends. Other facilities include a snack bar, several areas with tables and benches for picnics and a couple of tables where ladies serve Chinese tea. Rest rooms are placed at intervals throughout the park.

Musical shows are sometimes held in this spacious park. The park which is enclosed by a high wall and locked overnight.. It can be argued whether the joggers serve their health by doing their practice there as the surrounding part of town is heavily polluted. Nevertheless, the elaborate jogging track, complete with stops for weight lifting and special gymnastics, is in use all day, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons

[netraker]

Yo bro KatoeyLover69, what a job u did on compiling all the list of shopping centers etc in BKK... makes me want to make another trip up there to visit..

Anyways, from your nick, i suppose you can do a short one on the ladyboy
scene in bkk as well ? if i can up u , i would ! :)

[KatoeyLover69]

CENTRAL DEPARTMENT STORE

The largest group of department stores in Bangkok belong to Central. Their flagship store is Central Chidlom on Ploenchit Road. There are 11 other stores spread around Bangkok. The store has departments for clothes, cosmetics, electronics, jewelry, sports equipment, stationery and books.

1. Chidlom, Ploenchit Road
2. Ladprao, Paholyothin Road.
3. Wangburapa, Chakraphet Road.
4. Ramindra
5. Silom, Silom Road.
6. Huamark, Ramkamhaeng Road.
7. Bangna, Bangna Road.
8. Fashion Island, Ramindra Road.
9. Pinklao, Boromrachachonanee Road.
10. Future Park Rangsit, Phaholyothin Road.
11. Rama III, Rama III Road.
12. Silom Complex, Silom Road.

Two of the Central department stores have easy access from the BTS Sky Train. These are Central Chidlom (Chidlom Station) and Central Silom Complex (Saladaeng Station). We would also recommend Central City Banga on the southern outskirts. This has the bonus of having Leoland, a massive theme park on the roof (complete with swimming pools and roller coasters). Take the BTS Sky Train to the end of the line at On Nut and then take the free BTS Shuttle Bus to the department store.

Web-site for Central Department Stores :

http://www.central.co.th/web/index.html

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 21 December 2005 :-

PARTY AT SANAM LUANG ON NEW YEAR'S EVE

Bangkok revellers will be able to ring in the New Year with a candlelit prayer ceremony at Sanam Luang, officials said yesterday.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will invest Bt5 million on a party at Sanam Luang from 8am on New Year’s eve to 1am the next morning. BMA spokesman Puttipong Punnakan said revellers would also be treated to His Majesty the King’s philosophy of self-sufficiency economy.

City police will also allow night entertainment venues to stay open until 6am on New Year’s morning.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated 23 December 2005 :-

New Year Special: Top malls rise to Paragon’s challenge


This year has been one of major renovation and re-branding at leading shopping malls along Sukhumvit Road. The change is part of their “defensive” strategy to meet the challenge posed by the new Siam Paragon complex, which opened earlier this month and is expected to pressure the margins of the six big malls in the area:

Central World Plaza, Gaysorn Shopping Centre, Erawan Bangkok, Siam Centre, Siam Discovery Centre, and Mah Boon Krong Centre. Each shopping complex is now sporting its own unique concept and theme.

Central Pattana Plc recently announced the launch of its Central World retail complex at the Rajprasong intersection. The 800,000-square-metre renovation is being undertaken at a cost of Bt26 billion and is due to be complete next year.

Central Pattana aims to turn the site, previously known as the World Trade Shopping Centre, into “Asia’s Premier Shopping Paradise”. It is increasing the number of storeys from seven to 18. The first seven floors (78,000sqm) will be taken up by Zen, the trendy department store, while the remaining floors will be developed as lifestyle areas with retail and commercial attractions such as an educational centre, spa, beauty and fitness centres.

Central Chidlom has also revamped its 62,000sqm, seven-storey store. The renovation took almost 18 months to complete. Each of the store’s seven floors now has a different concept and attractions.

Yuwadee Bhicharnchitr, president of Central Department Store Co Ltd, said the company had upgraded the store to maintain its No 1 position.

“We want it to be the flagship department store of Thailand,” she said.

Central Chidlom has expanded its retail space on the ground floor from 1,800sqm to 2,500sqm to showcase international brand cosmetics and high-end fashion labels, as well as exclusive skincare and make-up brands.

Meanwhile, Gaysorn Shopping Complex will spend Bt100 million over the next six months to maintain its image as Bangkok’s premium luxury centre.

Major improvements – redesigned signage and balustrades, added seating areas, sculptures in the atrium and more outside lighting – will be implemented in the last quarter of this year and the first quarter 2006 under the theme “Very Exclusive Contemporary” to provide convenience for all customers, especially tourists.

Gaysorn will implement its Customer Relationship Strategy (CRM) to provide ultimate satisfaction for its VIP customers. Gaysorn is looking to provide a duty-free service in partnership with tenants to support customers going abroad. Gaysorn’s highly regarded multilingual concierges set a new standard for mall customer service, and valet parking ensures easy access.

Gaysorn began a Bt300-million renovation at the end of 2000 and the grand opening of the luxury shopping complex was held in September 2002, resulting in a modern luxurious look.

Figures from Gaysorn’s tenants indicate that sales in the first six months of this year were up an average 7.5 per cent year on year.

Chairman Charn Srivikorn said that the shopping mall needed to keep up with the fast moving world of international shopping, fashion trends and expectations of Thai customers and tourists.

Amarin Plaza in November last year opened its newly renovated 13,000-square metre Erawan Bangkok shopping complex, designed under the “boutique mall” concept. The plan was initiated after Amarin Plaza Plc bought the space back from Japan-based Sogo Department Store, which shut down operations a year ago.

With an investment of Bt400 million in major renovations, Erawan Bangkok has 13,000 square meters spread over five storeys.

The boutique mall has four zones: the Urban Kitchen and Sunken Court, which focuses on various ethnic cuisines; Luxury Fashion which houses accessories including jewellery and leather; Erawan’s Studio for clothing; and The Rejuvenation for beauty products, spas, and an entertainment venue for people to meet with friends in the evening. Its main customer focus will be the younger generation and executives who “prefer a luxurious yet warm and cosy atmosphere”.

Meanwhile, Siam Centre recently reopened with its new look as it seeks to become the ultimate fashion centre, under the innovative theme, “The Magical Glass Box”.

The Bt400 million face-lift creates a magical impression through graphic images and special lighting effects.

Siam Centre will become a hub for trendy fashions, targeting new-generation of shoppers aged 12-28, while Siam Discovery Centre, the nearby shopping complex, will be a lifestyle centre for innovative and stylish local and imported products.

The Emporium also launched its Parisian look in November this year following a Bt500 million renovation. The new look features a natural atmosphere with warm colours and a stylish look.

Kwanchai Rungfapaisarn
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Friday 23 December 2005 :-

BTS, subway to run 24 hrs

Bangkok’s Skytrain and subway systems will operate around the clock from New Year’s Eve through New Year’s Day, officials said yesterday.

The Energy Ministry has also ordered petrol stations to open 24 hours a day until January 5 to help commuters during the festive period.

The subway will offer discount fares on New Year’s Eve. Passengers will be able to travel for Bt10, with children and the elderly paying just Bt5. Subway passengers will also receive a free calendar during the festive period.

The Bangkok Transit System (BTS) will extend the validity of all Bt100 one-day passes bought on New Year’s Eve until 6am on New Year’s Day.

The BTS will join forces with the Thailand Protestant Churches Coordinating Committee to organise “Christmas on the BTS Skytrain”, featuring carol singing by students from various Christian schools and churches. Choirs will entertain passengers on trains on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 3pm to midnight.

[KatoeyLover69]

Here's the map of Patpong showing all the A Go Go bars and massage parlours :-

http://www.nanadisco.com/Maps/patpong.html



Another map of Patpong :-


http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Patpong2.html



Overall location of Patpong :-


http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Patpong1.html

http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Bangkokmaps.html

[KatoeyLover69]

Depending on your destination, sometimes it's cheaper and faster to travel by River Taxi.

Here's the Bangkok River Taxi Map :


http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Rivertaxi.html

[KatoeyLover69]

Somtimes because of the notorious Bangkok traffic jams, it is better to travel by the BTS Syktrain :-



http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Skytrain.html

[redlord]

Somtimes because of the notorious Bangkok traffic jams, it is better to travel by the BTS Syktrain :-



http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Skytrain.html




wHAT A GOOD POST ,I'LL UP U BRO KatoeyLover:D

[n00b1e]

any bros tailor made their shirts/pants in Bangkok?
If so which area do you go to for them?
Would like to tailor make some shirts with my initials on the sleeves :D
oh yeah how much am I looking at per shirt

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 9 January 2006 :-

Bus-only plan for luxury store area : Traffic worse since Siam Paragon opening

Traffic police in Pathumwan are planning to ban private vehicles on part of Rama I road between Pong Pra Ram and Ratchaprasong intersection to ease traffic congestion on the road, which is flanked by several popular luxury department stores. Pol Maj Phairat Pookcharoen, a traffic inspector at Pathumwan police station, said he would propose the plan to the Metropolitan Police Bureau for consideration. If approved, the area in question, including Charoen Phon, Pathumwan, Chaloem Phao to Ratchaprasong intersection, would only be accessible to public buses.
He said traffic police had been collecting traffic data since Dec 9, which marked the opening of the luxury Siam Paragon department store. It revealed that traffic had become heavier from noon until closing time, particularly at weekends and during public holidays.

During weekdays, traffic was not so heavy during the afternoon and evening, he said.

The Ratchaprasong area is a famous upmarket shopping district where the majority of customers drive to the malls in their own cars, rather than relying on public transport.

Pol Maj Phairat unveiled his plan after the road ground to a standstill on Saturday. The congestion was so bad Pathumwan police decided to close the area to private vehicles.

Pol Maj Phairat blamed the traffic chaos on cars queuing up to enter department store car parks.

Moreover, traffic police and staff working in department stores are forced to allow cars coming from Ratchaprasong intersection to make a right turn to enter Siam Paragon and Siam Discovery, cutting the traffic flow.

''This is because each department store has a limited parking area. Drivers have to keep driving in order to secure parking space for their vehicles in the malls.

This causes heavy congestion within the parking lots, making it hard for other vehicles to enter, and as a result the vehicles are stuck in a jam on the road,'' he said.

He said the proposed ''public bus lane'' would help considerably in easing traffic congestion in the area.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 30 January 2006 :-

Isetan @ Central World Plaza, Bangkok given a makeover : Japanese department store stresses style

By Pitsinee Jitpleecheep

Amid intensifying competition in the retail industry, Isetan Department Store at Central World Plaza, has decided to update its image to target younger consumers.

The move is an effort to compete with the new 15-billion-baht Siam Paragon shopping centre and to bring Isetan into line with the new look of CentralWorld, which will be relaunched in May.

Attractions at the site, formerly known as the World Trade Center, include a 5,000-square-metre Tops Supermarket and the trendy Zen Department Store.

Ken Kobayashi, the newly appointed general manager of Isetan (Thailand) Co, said that as part of the CentralWorld development the store would receive a facelift for the first time in its 14-year history.

The full makeover is expected to take three years and will transform Isetan into a fashionable Japanese store for both Japanese and Thai customers who are willing to pay for quality, he said.

Renovations, set to begin in early February, will start with the first and fifth floors, with the three main areas set aside for fashion, quality products and Japanese brands.

Once the renovations are completed, Mr Kobayashi said the sales space of the cosmetics section would account for 50% of total commercial space, with the supermarket area making up 30-40%, and the home-decoration area would be scaled down.

"Fashion not only refers to clothing and accessories, but also food and other necessities for daily life. Everything available here is fashionable," he said.

Recently, the company opened a Jalux counter service at Isetan Supermarket, providing airport-delivery food services to Japan Airlines customers who make a purchase from the Jalux counter on their departure date.

"Isetan is a Japanese store. We will maintain our identity, and we will emphasise our Japanese uniqueness even more. We want to become a favourite department store with loyal customers, like Central Chidlom," said Mr Kobayashi.

He said that a key factor in running a successful department store amid Thailand's dynamic and complicated retail business was customer satisfaction.

Asked about the impact from the opening of Siam Paragon, Mr Kobayashi said Isetan's sales dropped by 10% after the new shopping mall opened on Dec 9.

However, he said the situation had gone back to normal since Christmas.

Last year, the company achieved a growth rate of 5%, thanks in particular to sales of Japanese food, which increased by 20% to 55 million baht.

Japanese food accounted for 20% of the total sales volume of food products in its supermarket.

This year, the company expects sales to grow on par with last year's performance, said Mr Kobayashi.

[acmilan]

Somtimes because of the notorious Bangkok traffic jams, it is better to travel by the BTS Syktrain :-



http://www.mensasia.com/Travel/Thailand/Bangkok/Maps/Skytrain.html

If I am not mistaken, MRT from 2006 is 24 hrs...not sure about BTS though:cool:

[Hakoshu]

Tat was very informative

[KatoeyLover69]

If I am not mistaken, MRT from 2006 is 24 hrs...not sure about BTS though

Bro ACMilan,

Are you sure that the MRT will operate 24 hours in 2006 ? Where did you get your information from ?

I was in Bangkok from 13 to 18 January 2006 and both the Sky-train and MRT operates until 12.00 Midnight

[Sohni]

Bro ACMilan,

Are you sure that the MRT will operate 24 hours in 2006 ? Where did you get your information from ?

I was in Bangkok from 13 to 18 January 2006 and both the Sky-train and MRT operates until 12.00 Midnight

Don't have leh.

[acmilan]

Bro ACMilan,

Are you sure that the MRT will operate 24 hours in 2006 ? Where did you get your information from ?

I was in Bangkok from 13 to 18 January 2006 and both the Sky-train and MRT operates until 12.00 Midnight

After New Year's eve (31Dec/1Jan) partying, at 4am morning, me and my gal could not get taxi at Sukhumvit. So she pulled me to Sukhumvit MRT and we boarded train. She says from 2006, MRT will be 24 hrs or maybe I heard wrongly (my pasar thai not that good) only for 1Jan2006. Anyway, BKK buses run 24hrs so I was not surprised.

I checked MRT site just now and confirmed that MRT still only run until 12midnite leh
I was indeed mistaken and my apologies to bros.
Gong Xi Fa Cai anyway to all (even to the bro who quietly deducted my point).
To the bro who deducted my point: Lunar New Year time we must all not have hard feelings and penalised poor bros like me (who only have very little rep points) whose intent is to provide good info but mistakenly give wrong info, hehe. :D

[singrakthai]

After New Year's eve (31Dec/1Jan) partying, at 4am morning, me and my gal could not get taxi at Sukhumvit. So she pulled me to Sukhumvit MRT and we boarded train. She says from 2006, MRT will be 24 hrs or maybe I heard wrongly (my pasar thai not that good) only for 1Jan2006. Anyway, BKK buses run 24hrs so I was not surprised.
I checked MRT site just now and confirmed that MRT still only run until 12midnite leh
I was indeed mistaken and my apologies to bros.
Gong Xi Fa Cai anyway to all (even to the bro who quietly deducted my point).
To the bro who deducted my point: Lunar New Year time we must all not have hard feelings and penalised poor bros like me (who only have very little rep points) whose intent is to provide good info but mistakenly give wrong info, hehe.
:)
Ur intention is good lah.. but info is wrong...
Ur gf meant... ON THE NITE of 2006... new year eve to new year day... only these 2 days, the BTS and MRT will run 24 hours. Not for the whole year.
Happy New Year to u too.. Gong Xi Fa Cai! :D

[nirvana]

if i am not wrong, weekend fleamarket CHATUCHAT will be close soon..
due to the gov raising the rental...

can any kind soul check out when it will be close?

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Wednesday 1 February 2006 :-

KFC shifts focus away from big-store spaces

By Pitsinee Jitpleecheep

With space at a premium in large retail stores, the operator of local KFC restaurants is shifting its outlet expansion strategy to untapped markets this year.

The company plans to invest 500 million baht to open 35-40 new branches nationwide this year, bringing its total to 340-345, according to Waewkanee Assoratgoon, marketing director of KFC for Yum! Restaurants International Thailand.

Previously, the expansion of KFC outlets had followed the growth of large discount stores such as Tesco Lotus and Big C. But as a result of tighter zoning regulations, sites for new outlets are in short supply.

''Therefore, this year, we will open new outlets by finding locations that have market opportunity, in both shophouses and local department stores,'' she said.

KFC is especially interested in provinces where fast-food competition is limited, such as Kalasin, Phichit, Pattani, Phayao and Chiang Rai.

A market research firm ACNielsen survey of visits to fast-food restaurants, showed KFC first with a 49% share, then McDonald's at 26%, Pizza Hut 10%, The Pizza Company 6% and others 9%.

Sales of KFC last year grew by 10% because of outlet expansion, same-store growth and greater menu varieties. Figures were not disclosed.

Mrs Waewkanee said the addition of non-chicken menu items had been well-received by consumers. The company plans more non-chicken offerings this year and will make shrimp puffs a permanent menu choice. The new products are expected to account for 20% of its total sales this year.

Currently, an average of 6,000 customers a week visit each KFC shop with average spending of 200 baht per visit.

[tirak69]

if i am not wrong, weekend fleamarket CHATUCHAT will be close soon..
due to the gov raising the rental...

can any kind soul check out when it will be close?
seems like they are open on weekdays too now.

also there are other night markets in the old bangkok area like memorial brigde market and pat klong market. the prices are cheaper than chatujak too. :D

[nirvana]

seems like they are open on weekdays too now.

also there are other night markets in the old bangkok area like memorial brigde market and pat klong market. the prices are cheaper than chatujak too. :D


wow, now chatuchat weekday also have liao...

but i went to pat long... there pricey leh.. :D

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 8 February 2006 :-

Mikimoto (Thailand) opens at Siam Paragon

Mikimoto, the 110-year-old Japanese maker of pearl jewellery, has made a spectacular entry into the Thai jewellery market by opening a flagship store in the Siam Paragon shopping complex in the name of a new joint venture, Mikimoto (Thailand) Co Ltd.

It is Mikimoto’s biggest flagship store in Southeast Asia, occupying 180 square metres and offering a full range of jewellery, including bracelets, necklaces, rings, pens, watches, key holders and photo frames.

Mikimoto (Thailand) is a joint venture between the renowned Japanese parent company and Thailand’s Premier Diamond Cutting Co Ltd, one of the world’s leading diamond cutters.

The Thai company’s wide reputation helped to create the joint venture. It is the first time Mikimoto has joined with a local partner in a foreign market.

Premier Diamond Cutting claims to be the only company in Thailand with the ability to order raw diamonds for cutting here from Diamond Trading Co in the UK, the rough-diamond marketing arm of the De Beers Group, which serves jewellery manufacturers around the world.

Achariya Inkatanuvat, marketing manager for Mikimoto (Thailand), said that although it was just entering the Thai market, the Mikimoto brand had long been recognised in Thailand by customers ranging from teenagers to high-income earners. Product prices range from the thousands to the millions of baht.

Achiraya said the joint-venture partners planned to arrange events and workshops to educate the public on how to recognise high-quality jewellery and display the jewellery and other products on offer in the store.

It is hoped that the workshops will dispel perceptions that Mikimoto’s designs are obsolete.

The partners are not worried about intense competition - particularly within Siam Paragon - because all shops have their own character, matching different customers’ desires.

Achariya declined to reveal either the level of investment in the joint venture and its flagship store or expected revenue figures, but said both partners were confident about strong performance in their first year, because Thais were always willing to spend money on jewellery.

Nitida Asawanipont
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 10 February 2006 :-

Rotiboy proves a taste sensation

By Pitsinee Jitpleecheep

Rubbing shoulders with the jet-set at elite restaurants in Bangkok isn't the only way to keep abreast of the latest dining trends. By sweating a bit and queuing in a long line you can get a bite out of the latest craze - a coffee-flavoured baked bun at a Rotiboy outlet.

Days after entering the Thai market, Rotiboy, the Malaysia-based bakery chain has became a big hit with consumers by peddling its unique buns which have a coffee aroma.

Every day, from 8 am to 9 pm, there's the same astonishing scene on Silom Road and in Siam Square. That's a long line of people waiting in front of a Rotiboy outlet for their special buns.

It takes buyers about half an hour on average to queue before they can make a purchase, and each shopper is also limited to up to 10 buns at 25 baht apiece.

Pornpen Aungkavanich, managing director of Lottyboy Khanompangob Co, the authorised franchisee of Rotiboy in Siam Square, said she opened the business after a successful partnership with an Indonesian who opened her Noodie noodle outlet in Indonesia last year.

''I had never anticipated that a bun priced at 25 baht could become a million-baht business for me. At first bite, I instantly thought about the business opportunity and bought around 200-300 buns to distribute to my friends as a trial. After all of them said they liked it, I went back to the Malaysian founder and opened our first outlet in only a few months,'' she said.

The first Rotiboy outlet opened with an investment of more than four million baht at Siam Square Soi 4 last December.

At first, consumers weren't that excited. So Ms Pornpen tried a sampling strategy. She gave away hundreds of buns to prospective customer groups, ranging from politicians to singers, businessmen and students.

Through word of mouth, demand for the buns rapidly increased and her company soon had to limit the number of buns per purchase to 10 to avoid disappointing other customers who were still in the queue.

As demand keeps rising, the company plans to open more Rotiboy outlets, with one planned for Central Plaza Lat Phrao on the third floor by the end of this month and another at Central Rama II later on. Additional outlets may open at other department stores and BTS stations.

Rotiboy is the first company to offer this type of baked bun locally. However, it expects that two rivals will soon begin offering the same kind of food as Rotiboy, targeting the same market segment in Bangkok under their own brands in the coming month.

Chalit Limpanavech, chairman of Abac University's Marketing and Communication Department, said Rotiboy could prove a case study as it demonstrates the power of the right four Ps - product innovation, price, place and promotion.


Queues for Rotiboy offerings are now a common sight at its Bangkok outlets :

http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/100206_bus03.jpg

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Wednesday 22 February 2006 :- : Group forecasts 11% revenue rise this year

Negotiations on a new lease for the 47.22-rai site now used by the Central Lat Phrao shopping compleSx and the Sofitel Central Hotel have yet to begin, said Transport Minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal. But executives of the Central Group of Companies, the country's largest retail chain, are optimistic that it will receive a renewal to use the land that now houses the group's most profitable shopping mall.

The 30-year lease will expire at the end of 2008.

Central Group executives discussed the issue yesterday at a briefing at which they announced a revenue target of 96 billion baht for this year, up 11% from 2005.

Mr Pongsak said he had directed the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the owner of the plot, to hire an appraisal company to assess the value of the property to find an appropriate rate to charge private concession holders.

He said it was highly possible that the SRT would call open bids to maximise returns, adding that payments to the state should be at least 10 billion baht over the length of the contract.

Suthichart Chirathivat, the Central Group's executive director who is in charge of negotiations with the SRT, said the state agency would probably allow Central to renew the land lease contract for its Lat Phrao shopping complex.

He said the group was negotiating with the SRT about rental fees and other conditions, with a conclusion expected within one year.

Central Group leased the site from the SRT in 1978 to develop a hotel and shopping complex. Under the 30-year contract, it has the first right to renew the lease after the contract expires on Dec 18, 2008.

SRT deputy governor Yuthana Tapcharoen admitted that the agency had held several informal talks with Central but had yet to reach any conclusion. Central has made proposals but the SRT says it needs to wait for the appraisal process.

However, Mr Yuthana said that under the current contract, the incumbent developer had the first right to renew the lease for at least 10 years depending on the profits it offered the SRT.

Suthichai Chirathivat, the Central Group's executive chairman, said the company should be first on the list. ''We were the first to develop this land. It's only fair that we get a chance to do it again,'' he said.

Viewing political uncertainty as short-lived, Mr Suthichai said the group had not revised its investment plan this year.

Central Group plans to spend about 16 billion baht to expand its five core businesses this year - retailing, real estate, trading and marketing, hotel and food.

7.75 billion baht will be spent to expand CentralWorld, on three new malls in Chaeng Watthana, Pattaya and Rama IX, and on renovating existing stores.

About 5.3 billion baht will be used to add new outlets of Tops supermarket, HomeWorks and Power Buy, and to renovate the Zen department store at CentralWorld. The remaining 2.9 billion baht will be used to expand the Central hotel and restaurant chains and the trading and marketing businesses. Half of the funds will come from company cash flow and the balance from a property fund.

Mr Suthichai said that the investment budget did not include an overseas expansion plan. ''We will focus on land leases for our retail projects in Vietnam and Indonesia as the first step in order to avoid a long-term commitment if [business] is not as good as we expected.''

He expressed confidence that the group's total sales this year would increase by 11% to 96 billion baht thanks to a host of positive factors such as the 5% GDP growth and government spending on megaprojects.

''What we are concerned about are persistently high oil prices and the southern violence,'' he said.

Sales of the group last year grew by 12.4% to 86.44 billion baht despite various negative factors ranging from the tsunami to bird flu, natural disasters, rising oil prices and southern violence.



The lease on the Lat Phrao site, Central's biggest earner, expires at the end of 2008.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/220206_bus01.jpg

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Wednesday 22 February 2006 :- : Group forecasts 11% revenue rise this year

Negotiations on a new lease for the 47.22-rai site now used by the Central Lat Phrao shopping compleSx and the Sofitel Central Hotel have yet to begin, said Transport Minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal. But executives of the Central Group of Companies, the country's largest retail chain, are optimistic that it will receive a renewal to use the land that now houses the group's most profitable shopping mall.

The 30-year lease will expire at the end of 2008.

Central Group executives discussed the issue yesterday at a briefing at which they announced a revenue target of 96 billion baht for this year, up 11% from 2005.

Mr Pongsak said he had directed the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the owner of the plot, to hire an appraisal company to assess the value of the property to find an appropriate rate to charge private concession holders.

He said it was highly possible that the SRT would call open bids to maximise returns, adding that payments to the state should be at least 10 billion baht over the length of the contract.

Suthichart Chirathivat, the Central Group's executive director who is in charge of negotiations with the SRT, said the state agency would probably allow Central to renew the land lease contract for its Lat Phrao shopping complex.

He said the group was negotiating with the SRT about rental fees and other conditions, with a conclusion expected within one year.

Central Group leased the site from the SRT in 1978 to develop a hotel and shopping complex. Under the 30-year contract, it has the first right to renew the lease after the contract expires on Dec 18, 2008.

SRT deputy governor Yuthana Tapcharoen admitted that the agency had held several informal talks with Central but had yet to reach any conclusion. Central has made proposals but the SRT says it needs to wait for the appraisal process.

However, Mr Yuthana said that under the current contract, the incumbent developer had the first right to renew the lease for at least 10 years depending on the profits it offered the SRT.

Suthichai Chirathivat, the Central Group's executive chairman, said the company should be first on the list. ''We were the first to develop this land. It's only fair that we get a chance to do it again,'' he said.

Viewing political uncertainty as short-lived, Mr Suthichai said the group had not revised its investment plan this year.

Central Group plans to spend about 16 billion baht to expand its five core businesses this year - retailing, real estate, trading and marketing, hotel and food.

7.75 billion baht will be spent to expand CentralWorld, on three new malls in Chaeng Watthana, Pattaya and Rama IX, and on renovating existing stores.

About 5.3 billion baht will be used to add new outlets of Tops supermarket, HomeWorks and Power Buy, and to renovate the Zen department store at CentralWorld. The remaining 2.9 billion baht will be used to expand the Central hotel and restaurant chains and the trading and marketing businesses. Half of the funds will come from company cash flow and the balance from a property fund.

Mr Suthichai said that the investment budget did not include an overseas expansion plan. ''We will focus on land leases for our retail projects in Vietnam and Indonesia as the first step in order to avoid a long-term commitment if [business] is not as good as we expected.''

He expressed confidence that the group's total sales this year would increase by 11% to 96 billion baht thanks to a host of positive factors such as the 5% GDP growth and government spending on megaprojects.

''What we are concerned about are persistently high oil prices and the southern violence,'' he said.

Sales of the group last year grew by 12.4% to 86.44 billion baht despite various negative factors ranging from the tsunami to bird flu, natural disasters, rising oil prices and southern violence.



The lease on the Lat Phrao site, Central's biggest earner, expires at the end of 2008.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/220206_bus01.jpg

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Wednesday 22 February 2006 :- : Group forecasts 11% revenue rise this year

Negotiations on a new lease for the 47.22-rai site now used by the Central Lat Phrao shopping compleSx and the Sofitel Central Hotel have yet to begin, said Transport Minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal. But executives of the Central Group of Companies, the country's largest retail chain, are optimistic that it will receive a renewal to use the land that now houses the group's most profitable shopping mall.

The 30-year lease will expire at the end of 2008.

Central Group executives discussed the issue yesterday at a briefing at which they announced a revenue target of 96 billion baht for this year, up 11% from 2005.

Mr Pongsak said he had directed the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the owner of the plot, to hire an appraisal company to assess the value of the property to find an appropriate rate to charge private concession holders.

He said it was highly possible that the SRT would call open bids to maximise returns, adding that payments to the state should be at least 10 billion baht over the length of the contract.

Suthichart Chirathivat, the Central Group's executive director who is in charge of negotiations with the SRT, said the state agency would probably allow Central to renew the land lease contract for its Lat Phrao shopping complex.

He said the group was negotiating with the SRT about rental fees and other conditions, with a conclusion expected within one year.

Central Group leased the site from the SRT in 1978 to develop a hotel and shopping complex. Under the 30-year contract, it has the first right to renew the lease after the contract expires on Dec 18, 2008.

SRT deputy governor Yuthana Tapcharoen admitted that the agency had held several informal talks with Central but had yet to reach any conclusion. Central has made proposals but the SRT says it needs to wait for the appraisal process.

However, Mr Yuthana said that under the current contract, the incumbent developer had the first right to renew the lease for at least 10 years depending on the profits it offered the SRT.

Suthichai Chirathivat, the Central Group's executive chairman, said the company should be first on the list. ''We were the first to develop this land. It's only fair that we get a chance to do it again,'' he said.

Viewing political uncertainty as short-lived, Mr Suthichai said the group had not revised its investment plan this year.

Central Group plans to spend about 16 billion baht to expand its five core businesses this year - retailing, real estate, trading and marketing, hotel and food.

7.75 billion baht will be spent to expand CentralWorld, on three new malls in Chaeng Watthana, Pattaya and Rama IX, and on renovating existing stores.

About 5.3 billion baht will be used to add new outlets of Tops supermarket, HomeWorks and Power Buy, and to renovate the Zen department store at CentralWorld. The remaining 2.9 billion baht will be used to expand the Central hotel and restaurant chains and the trading and marketing businesses. Half of the funds will come from company cash flow and the balance from a property fund.

Mr Suthichai said that the investment budget did not include an overseas expansion plan. ''We will focus on land leases for our retail projects in Vietnam and Indonesia as the first step in order to avoid a long-term commitment if [business] is not as good as we expected.''

He expressed confidence that the group's total sales this year would increase by 11% to 96 billion baht thanks to a host of positive factors such as the 5% GDP growth and government spending on megaprojects.

''What we are concerned about are persistently high oil prices and the southern violence,'' he said.

Sales of the group last year grew by 12.4% to 86.44 billion baht despite various negative factors ranging from the tsunami to bird flu, natural disasters, rising oil prices and southern violence.



The lease on the Lat Phrao site, Central's biggest earner, expires at the end of 2008.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/220206_bus01.jpg

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Friday 24 February 2006 :-

Fashion Island to continue revamp

The decade-old Fashion Island shopping complex on Ram-Indra Road announced yesterday that it would continue the face-lift it has been undergoing for two years.

"We've entered our third year of major renovation, which is set to make us a more modern and more dynamic shopping mall," said Prasert Sriuranpong, vice president of marketing and business development for Siam Retail Development Co Ltd, which operates the shopping centre.

He said the firm would pour Bt150 million this year alone into renovations, after already spending more than Bt200 million.

He said Fashion Island's business strategy would revolve around improvements to make the complex even more attractive to a wider variety of shoppers.

He said this year's renovation work would focus on four main areas: rezoning, introducing new zones, introducing new outlets and upgrading facilities.

"All four of our floors will be rezoned. Restaurants, educational products and household appliances will be grouped on the basement level. Fashion and fast-food outlets will be on the ground floor. The second floor will feature mobile-phone shops, services and banking outlets, more fashion and beauty salons. And furniture, home decorations, a cinema, a bowling alley, an amusement area, IT, Sport City and a food court will all be housed on the third floor," said Prasert.

New zones will be introduced, including a 1,220-square-metre education zone. A new 657-square-metre fashion and ornaments zone will open in May.

"We've transformed our 3,000-square-metre multipurpose hall on the third floor into a new indoor sports stadium that can serve as a venue for any type of indoor competition."


Kwanchai Rungfapaisarn
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 3 March 2006 :-

Retail chains expect stable sales growth : Up to 15% expansion similar to last year

Listed retail chains say they expect their growth this year to range from 12% to 15%, on par with 2005. Executives of the Big C Supercenter, C.P. Seven Eleven and Siam Makro chains all said they would continue to use similar strategies as in 2005, including the addition of new stores and services, renovation of existing stores, cost-saving steps, customer relationship management (CRM) programmes and merchandise adjustment.

Rumpa Kumhomreun, Big C's chief financial officer, said Big C planned to spend three billion baht to open four new stores including outlets in Phrae and Ratchaburi, and to upgrade 11 existing branches this year. With more outlets, the Big C network will number 49 stores by the end of this year.

Praphan Eamrungroj, the company's senior vice-president for properties, said Big C would open new stores in the provinces because the market demand in Bangkok had peaked for the time being.

''Although our business is not particularly vulnerable to changes in the economy, we're more concerned about the unclear policy on retail zoning, which has to date limited our business expansion,'' said Mr Praphan.

However, the company believes its performance this year will be at least on par with last year's thanks to sales from new stores and strategies to build customer loyalty including an improved shopping atmosphere and cross merchandising.

More importantly, the company will reduce its logistics and energy costs to be able to offer cheap products.

Big C's net profit last year rose 17.6% 1.88 billion baht on revenue of 53.19 billion baht, up 12.2%, thanks to the expansion of its chain and cost controls.

Its shares closed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand yesterday at 33 baht, unchanged, in trade worth 459,000 baht.

Meanwhile, Siam Makro Plc, the sole cash-and-carry operator in Thailand, reported a 2.6% rise in net profit to 1.13 billion baht last year on consolidated sales of 50.41 billion baht, up 12.9%.

Suchada Ittijarukul, managing director of Siam Makro Plc, attributed the growth to a new strategy of remodelling its existing outlets by allocating bigger space to fresh food. Additionally, the higher sales revenue also derived from Siam Food Services Limited whose sales were consolidated.

Like Big C, Siam Makro has suspended plans to open new outlets in Bangkok until the zoning law for the retail business is clear.

However, Ms Suchada said it would invest in 2006 the same amount as last year to remodel its two stores in Surin and Ubon Ratchathani. Moreover, it will focus on research and CRM strategies to enhance customer satisfaction.

Shares of Siam Makro closed yesterday at 80 baht, up five baht in trade worth 31.50 million.

Pittaya Jiaravisithkul, chief executive of C.P. Seven-Eleven Plc, forecast that industry-wide 13 discount stores, 30-40 supermarkets, over 200 mini-supermarkets and 100-200 convenience stores would be added this year. For its part, 7-Eleven plans to open 400-500 outlets this year.

Shares of CP7-11 closed at 6.60 baht, up 10 satang, in trade worth 16.07 million baht.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 3 March 2006 :-

Ethan Allen opens in Bangkok

The American luxury furniture brand Ethan Allen has opened its first showroom in Southeast Asia in Bangkok with a target to generate 60 million baht in sales in its first year and 15% annual growth. Ethan Allen, launched in the United States in 1932, has more than 300 stores worldwide with Asian outlets in China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

Marc Dasilva, general manager of JS Home Interiors Plc, a subsidiary of the Jaspal Group, said the company wanted to bring its products to Thailand a decade ago but the country faced an economic crisis at that time.

He said the Thai economy now had recovered to the point where demand would match Ethan Allen products, especially among affluent buyers.

The company estimates the market value for luxury home furnishings at 500 million baht.

''Thai people have a great fancy for fashion and product style. Numerous high-end real estate projects have recently been completed or will be completed in the near future with many others still in the early stages of development,'' said Mr Dasilva.

''These real estate development projects are a leading indicator for the furnishings industry and we expect to capture a large share of this market.''

The first showroom, representing an investment of 80 million baht, is located on Sukhumvit Road.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Friday 3 March 2006 :-

Big C to pump Bt2 bn into four new stores

Big C Supercentre Plc will invest more than Bt3 billion this year, with about Bt2 billion to be spent on opening four discount stores.

"We will also allocate Bt1 billion to renovate our existing stores. About 11 Big C branches will enter the renovation process and four to five stores, such as Wong Sawang [in Bangkok], will undergo major work," Praphan Eamrungroj, senior vice president for properties, said yesterday.

Two Big Cs will open in Phrae and Ratchaburi in the middle of the year and two more, also upcountry, by year-end.

The Phrae property will be a compact model with retail space of 5,800 square metres, while Ratchaburi will follow a standard format with 9,000-10,000 square metres.

Casino Group of France owns 63 per cent of Big C Supercentre. Central Retail Corp, Thailand's largest retail conglomerate, owns the rest. The company operates 45 stores, of which 24 are in Bangkok.

The renovated stores will take about three and a half years to show a return on investment.

Chief financial officer Rumpa Kumhomreun said five store launches - in Omyai, Phetkasem, Sukhapiban, Ekamai [all in Bangkok] and Sakon Nakhon - had helped boost revenues by 12.2 per cent to Bt53.1 billion last year.

"Despite the economic downturn and many difficulties such as higher petrol prices, which made consumers more cautious about spending money, Big C was able to meet its profit target for the year," Rumpa said.

Revenue from renting out space to tenants rose 19.6 per cent to Bt6.38 billion.

Net income was up 17.6 per cent to Bt1.8 billion last year, while selling and administration expenses rose by 12.8 per cent to Bt8.6 billion.

This year's focus will be on improving logistics while controlling energy costs.

"We will expand space at our distribution centre in Wang Noi [in Ayutthaya] from 30,000 square metres currently to 40,000 square metres this year, and up to 50,000 next year. The expansion will raise the capacity of the distribution centre to handle dry food products by 70 per cent," she said.

"We would like to reduce our logistics costs by at least 5 per cent this year," she added.

A back-haul system has been implemented to ensure that Big C's delivery trucks pick up suppliers' shipments on the way back to the distribution centre rather than return empty.

The country's second-ranked hypermarket chain will handle transportation of fresh and dry foods with 18-wheel trucks. The trucks will be packed full for every delivery to stores to reduce transport costs.

Big C has created an energy-saving programme aimed at reducing all energy costs. The company would this year spend Bt109 million to install energy-saving equipment at its stores including ozone treatment systems, light-saving controllers and equipment to ensure efficient use of electricity.

"The energy-saving equipment will generate Bt38.5 million of annual return and the payback period will be almost three years," she said.

Jariya Chirathivat, vice president for marketing and communications, said this year's marketing strategy was directed at building brand loyalty to retain long-term customers. The company will continue to concentrate on Big C's core value of being the low-price leader in the marketplace.


Kwanchai Rungfapaisarn
The Nation

[trek2]

wow, now chatuchat weekday also have liao...
but i went to pat long... there pricey leh.. :D


Heard this place Plantinum is kinda like wholesale centre where all the good bargain are.
Anyone checked this place out ?
Quite a big place too, near Amariwater gate hotel area...:cool:

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 6 March 2006 :-

Bakeries battle for market share : Rising popularity of coffee-flavoured buns

As the fad for coffee and green tea fades, coffee-flavoured buns from Singapore and Malaysia are gaining in popularity.

Seven brands from Thailand's neighbours have been launched in the last three months: Crystal Jade, My Bread, Bread Talk, Roti Boy, Mr Bun and Papa Roti. Roti Boy has become a local phenomenon.

Also jumping on the bandwagon is Coffee Dome, with hot-selling pastries from its first outlet on the ground floor of the Carrefour hypermarket's Rama IV branch.

Fast Freight and Forward Co was set up to run Coffee Dome outlets in Thailand with registered capital of two million baht.

The former chief operating officer of the Singaporean bakery brand Roti Mom is leading the venture with a group of Thai electronics and IT entrepreneurs.

Kelvin Goh, who is now marketing director of Fast Freight & Forward Co, said the company would initially import frozen dough from Singapore for processing in Thailand.

However, it plans to produce its own dough at a bakery in Chanthaburi starting next month.

Business is likely to be brisk for Coffee Dome. Since it opened, more than 3,500 buns have been snapped up each day _ and customers have no qualms about waiting in line for the snacks.

Following the positive response, the company plans to open between 40 and 50 more Coffee Dome outlets throughout the country, including Pattaya and Nakhon Ratchasima.

But if one can't wait, Coffee Dome products can also be found in some Carrefour, Tesco Lotus and Tesco Lotus Express outlets and at all outlets of The Mall department stores.

To increase customer satisfaction, the company also plans to offer a delivery service at some Tesco Lotus express outlets.

Asked whether the popularity of coffee-flavoured buns was just a fad, Mr Goh said: ''Although coffee and bread may not be every Thai's ideal way to start the day, the popularity of the two products has continuously increased.

''Our products are made from a combination of both, so demand for coffee buns is not just a fad.''

Apart from opening in the local market, the company plans to sell franchises in Japan, South Korea and the United States.

Also making a grab for a portion of the market is President Bakery Plc, the manufacturer of Farmhouse bread.

Managing director Apichart Thammanomai said the company was interested in expanding via retail channels to get closer to customers, rather than using a wholesale approach.

To cash in on market demand for fresh bakery goods, President Bakery opened its first Farmhouse Fresh outlet in the Asok area earlier this year.

Its approach to products is similar to Roti Boy's, but it claims its products are different and more varied.

The company plans to open five Farmhouse Fresh outlets in Bangkok this year.

Mr Apichart said the company would also expand its wholesale business in 2006 and it would relaunch its logo soon to reaffirm its brand image.

President says its business isn't threatened by the new market entries, and expects operations to grow this year by 18%, on par with 2005.

Sales of President Bakery last year increased 18.7% to 2.14 billion baht with a 42.2% increase in net profit to 191.49 million baht.

President Bakery shares closed on Friday on the Stock Exchange of Thailand at 89 baht, up four baht, in trade worth 535,000 baht.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Tuesday 7 March 2006 :-

Optimistic future for Siam Paragon : Poor consumer sentiment a challenge

Siam Paragon executives say their sales in the first quarter of this year are on target and revenue is likely to stay on track for the whole year thanks to loyal customers and foreign tourists.

Natsamon Vongkittipat, assistant chief marketing officer for Siam Paragon and The Emporium department store, said Siam Paragon would mimic The Emporium's success by increasing the number of regular shoppers to at least 50% of the total, compared to only 30% at present.

The number of regular customers is expected to increase when Siam Paragon raises the number of Platinum and Prestige cardholders, which now total 510,000 altogether.

The Emporium is owned by The Mall group, which also owns a 50% stake in Siam Paragon.

According to a market survey conducted by The Emporium, regular customers visited The Emporium once a week and spent about 3,000 baht.

"Business at The Emporium shows sustainable growth despite negative factors, because of a strong customer loyalty," said Mrs Natsamon.

To enhance business stability, The Emporium plans to increase the number of foreign tourists with a privilege programme by linking up with airlines, hotels, inbound tour agencies and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Mrs Natsamon said The Emporium and Siam Paragon had not been affected by political uncertainty so far.

However, she expressed concerns about poor consumer sentiment which could result in a delay in purchasing this summer, a peak sales period.

To combat this, The Emporium and Siam Paragon have teamed up with strategic partners including HSBC, Cathay Pacific Airways, SFX Cinema and Paragon Cineplex on an 80-million baht campaign entitled, "South Africa Jo'burg Passion" , to boost customer spending from March 10 to April 16.

The campaign includes customer discount coupons, overseas trips and movie tickets. It should boost sales at both shopping outlets in the first three months of this year to 4.5 billion baht combined. Of the total, 1.8 billion baht would come from The Emporium with the balance from Siam Paragon.

Mrs Natsamon said in Siam Paragon's first three months its sales volume was on target. About 60% of its shoppers were Thai and 40% foreign tourists from markets including Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, China and Singapore.

Sales momentum at Siam Paragon has kept growing continuously and the luxury shopping centre recorded 20% growth in February, compared with January.

For the entire year, she said, sales at Siam Paragon were on track to reach 10 billion baht, compared with seven billion baht at The Emporium.

Mrs Natsamon expects that the retail industry will grow by 10% this year, compared with 12% last year because political uncertainty would affect consumer purchasing power, particularly for medium-and low-end goods.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Tuesday 7 March 2006 :-

Siam Paragon targets more international customers

Siam Paragon, The Mall group's high-end shopping complex, is planning to create brand awareness among foreigners, mainly from Asia and Europe, to achieve its goal as a major travel destination in Bangkok.

Natsamon Vongkittipat, assistant chief marketing officer of Siam Paragon and Emporium, said yesterday Siam Paragon would have to set aside funds from its current marketing budget for the project. The spending plans have yet to be finalised.

The shopping complex plans to work closely with "strategic partners" to arrange co-promotions as well as exploit its partners' customer networks to attract more international customers from target countries, mainly in Europe and Asia. Some of the partners include HSBC Bank and Cathay Pacific Airways.

Natsamon said Siam Paragon had been trying to attract international tourists. It is working with approximately 10 travel agencies to bring their customers to shop at Siam Paragon. It has also been working with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and many organisations to include Siam Paragon among their venue lists for holding major events and conferences.

International customers account for 40 per cent of the shopping centre's customers: Singaporeans, Japanese, Koreans, and Hong Kongers are its main international customers, said Natsamon.

She said that although the company was focusing on creating brand awareness among international tourists, local customers were always its priority and were also more reliable when something unexpected occurs. Still, it wants to increase the number of customers from both groups.

The current political environment is an example of something unexpected. The issue hasn't affected shopping complexes in terms of sales and numbers of international tourists, yet, she claimed.

Natsamon said most of the mall's local customers were also concerned about politics. But if prolonged it would definitely affect consumers, which will lead to a reduction in sales. Average spending per buying customer is Bt3,000 per visit.

Siam Paragon's performance in the first two months of this year was "satisfactory". She said the shopping complex's tenants would generate Bt4.5 billion in sales in the first quarter of this year.

Siam Paragon and The Emporium have also joined with HSBC Bank, Cathay Pacific Airways, and SFX Cinema to organise a summer campaign called "South Africa Jo'burg Passion" from March 10 to April 16.


Nitida Asawanipont
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 8 March 2006 :-

Famous brand: Launch of Barbie bags and cosmetics

The makers of Barbie, the world-famous doll, yesterday announced that it would join Thailand's handbags and cosmetics market with the launch of the Barbie bag and Barbie cosmetic collections.

Barbie bags and cosmetics will be available at 40 department stores and other retail outlets by the end of this year.

Kids & Teens Co Ltd has the exclusive distribution licence for the collections from Mattel Inc of the US. General manager Sherene Thanaphathanawiboon said that the company had set up an advertising budget Bt3 million to promote the product in Thailand.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Saturday 11 March 2006 :-

Thai Princess to open fashion boutique

HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, the youngest daughter of HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, is planning to open her first fashion store at Siam Paragon. The Sirivannavari boutique will be on the first floor of the luxury shopping mall in central Bangkok.

''It will be opened on Jan 8 next year, which will coincide with my birthday and the brand will have an image of a peacock as its logo,'' the designer princess said at a press conference at the Fashion Trend Center at CentralWorld on Friday.

''The products will be separated into two lines, which will be haute couture and ready-to-wear,'' said the princess, who is a first-year student at the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Chulalongkorn University.

Since deciding to study fashion design, Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana has taken part in a few design events, including Bangkok Fashion Week 2005.

She is currently preparing to introduce her latest autumn/winter collection, created under the ''Fly to Nouveau'' concept, on Tuesday for Bangkok Fashion City 2006 at the fashion dome in Benjakitti Park.

Items from this collection, which was inspired by the 1920s and 30s, together with those from the princess's previous collection, called Viva Victorian 2005, will be available at her boutique.

''After I did the show at Bangkok Fashion Week 2005, many people asked where could they get my designs. This prompted me to open this store,'' she said.

Apart from clothing, the store will carry a wide range of accessories. However, those who do not want to wait until the store opens can purchase the princess's accessory designs from a special booth during Bangkok Fashion Week 2006.

Some of the revenue will go to the ''Art for All'' project established by the Faculty of Fine and Applied Art, which encourages the use of art as therapy for people with disabilities, including autism.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 15 March 2006 :-

Plenty to play with at new store

Learning Curve Toys Co Ltd yesterday announced the opening of its flagship retail store in Bangkok and plans to open franchise outlets in other parts of the country.

Located on Sukhumvit Soi 24 and covering 50 square metres of space, the new flagship store will sell a full line-up of educational toys under brands such as Lamaze Infant Development System, Thomas Wooden Railway System, and Bob the Builder.

Over the next two to three months it hopes to franchise its speciality toy store outlets in major cities and tourist destinations including Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui and Khon Kaen. It will also open a Learning Curve Toys outlet in Vietnam in the middle of next year to capture the fastest growing market in Southeast Asia.

"We are negotiating with Bumrungrat Hospital to open a second stand-alone toy shop at the hospital," said Susan Wu, marketing director of Learning Curve Toys Co Ltd.

Wu said that Learning Curve Toys started selling its products in the King Power duty free shop at Don Muang Airport at the end of last year. The company will expand its outlets through the King Power's retail network, both at its Rang Nam outlet as well as at Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is scheduled to open this year.

The company hopes to play in the domestic toy market which is expected to grow 20 per cent per annum over the next decade. Industry experts point to the increasing purchasing power of Thai parents for the expected increases. Domestic demand for wooden toys is also growing at 15-20 per cent a year.

Wu said the toy industry was valued at Bt3 billion last year, of which imported speciality premium educational products accounted for 30 per cent.

The new outlet contains over 2,000 educational toys.

As the only licensed distributor in the country for Lamaze and Thomas & Friends, Learning Curve Toys yesterday introduced its third imported educational toy brand Bob the Builder. The Bob the Builder collection will engage even the youngest children in constructive play, she said.

"At Learning Curve Toys we understand that the first years of a child's life are crucial. That is why we only provide quality, classic toys and products that are internationally-recognised and endorsed by child-development experts," she said.

"We provide educational props that enhance the value of play. It is well-documented that interactive and imaginative play is integral to a child's development - it helps them make sense of the world and aids their cognitive growth and gross motor skills," she said.

Learning Curve Toys sells toys that cater to children from infancy to age eight, the fundamental learning curve period of their lives, she said.

"We also plan to diversify our merchandise to natural and organic healthcare and spa products, as well as nutrition and food supplements, to serve both children and parents," said Wu.


Kwanchai Rungfapaisarn
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 15 March 2006 :-

Dr Marten's tunes into the young set

British shoe manufacturer Dr Marten's plans to apply music marketing this year as it seeks to capture a younger segment of the market.

So far, the thick-soled shoes have mostly attracted men aged 26 and over.

Charnchant Krisadawat, marketing manager of OTT Footwear Co Ltd - Dr Marten's authorised representative in Thailand - said that since it officially entered the Thai market last September the brand had received a good response from Thai consumers although sales to the key 18-25-year-old segment had not met expectations. The company is hoping sales to this segment will account for 30 per cent of sales this year. To draw interest from younger buyers, the company will apply music marketing. Its first activity under the strategy is "Lek Chin Sod: Flure Spective", a concert by the band Flure sponsored by Dr Martens, which will be held on April 1. Every buyer of a pair of Dr Marten's shoes will be awarded two tickets to the concert. The campaign is being organised in partnership with Fat Radio.

Charnchant said that if the campaign proves to be success, the company will organise more concerts with other radio stations to capture various groups of teenagers.

Apart from the concert, the company has opened a 1460 Booth Shop at Centre Point in Siam Square to give it exposure to more teenage buyers.

Dr Marten's has been widely known among Thai consumers for over a decade as independent traders bought in bulk to retail the shoes here. OTT Footwear became the authorised representative in September.

Shoe prices range from Bt3,900 to Bt4,500.

The brand has three product lines: Casual, Classic Style and Smart Working.

Dr Marten's are currently sold at seven branches of the Central Department Stores: Central Chidlom, Lardprao, Bangna, Pinklao, Rama III, Phuket, and Zen.

This year, the company plans to open another five retail points at Siam Paragon, The Emporium, The Mall Bangkapi, Central Airport Chiang Mai, and Isetan. It also hopes to open an 80-square meter store at Siam Discovery within this year, which will require a Bt3 million to Bt4 million investment.

Another marketing campaign running from yesterday to the end of March is "Dr Marten's: Free Style in Style" selling shoes designed by Thai celebrities. Revenue gained from the sale of those shoes will be presented to the Chaipattana Foundation.

With all its marketing efforts, the company expects to sell more than 10,000 pairs of shoes worth Bt45 million. Last year, the company sold 3,000 pairs worth Bt12 million to 13 million.


Nitida Asawanipont
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 20 March 2006 :-

Proposed new shopping centre in Pattaya

'Mr Hippy' plans a Las Vegas-style shopping centre with everything to offer in North Pattaya

Veteran Thai boxing promoter Banchong Busarakamwong, known to many as "Mr Hippy", plans to spend over 500 million baht building a Las Vegas-style shopping arcade in North Pattaya.

The move comes after the successful launch of a huge sports club and resort in the popular tourist town.

Mr Banchong, the chairman and founder of Fairtex Sportclub & Resort Co, said the group had rented an eight-rai plot in North Pattaya for the project, next to its Fairtex Muay Thai sports club, which opened last month.

Half the space will be a shopping arcade and half will be a five-star condominium with room for expanding sports facilities.

Building of the low-rise retail outlet is expected to begin early next year and finish within the next two years.

"We will apply the atmosphere of shopping arcades in Las Vegas to our own complex to fulfil our services and make our sports club and resort more attractive," said Mr Banchong.

About 20% of the anchor and service providers at Fairtex Shopping Arcade would be different from the others in Pattaya, he said.

Although Mr Banchong earlier lost several hundred million baht when he went into partnership to develop Somprasong Plaza in Pattaya, he said he was still fascinated by the beachside location.

"What boxing has taught us about daring and courage has eventually become a method in running our business," he said.

The 250-million-baht Fairtex Sports Club and Resort, opened at the end of last month, was built on eight rai in North Pattaya, near the bus terminal.

It houses restaurants and several outdoor and indoor sport facilities, including: badminton, basketball and squash courts; a fitness centre; swimming pool; boxing rings; and a rock-climbing wall; as well as a five-star hotel with 60 rooms, a 50-room dormitory building and parking for 100 cars.

"Pattaya has lots of opportunities. People have high purchasing power but there are no sports clubs available. So, Fairtex was built to serve the demand of people who are looking for activities in the daytime," he said.

The new sports club and resort targets A-group customers and aims for a ratio of 60% foreigners with the balance Thais. The foreign group is larger than Thais because Pattaya is home to thousands of expats from Europe, Japan, North America, Australia and Korea.

The minimum membership package costs 35,000 baht, and there are 500 members already. The company aims to have 1,000 members by the end of the year, when it expects sales to reach 100 million baht.

The company plans to serve 2,000 members and expects to see a return on investment within three to four years.

In the long term, Mr Banchong said the company planned to open at least 10 Fairtex facilities in Thailand.

Fairtex operates four Muay Thai camps in Japan and two in the United States. It plans to increase these to 20 in Japan and 10 in the US in the near future.

Locally, Fairtex has one Muay Thai camp with a gym in Bang Phli and now another in Pattaya.

Mr Banchong said Muay Thai was very popular around the world. People from the US, Japan, and Europe, all wanted to practise Thai boxing, not only to train or coach, but to protect themselves.

There are more than 10 companies in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Australia that want to go into joint ventures with the firm or franchise camps in their countries.

Mr Banchong said recognition of the Fairtex brand overseas had been very good thanks to support from Tata Young, a Thai singer who has a close relationship with his youngest son, Prem.

The company also has its own factory producing Muay Thai equipment.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Tuesday 21 March 2006 :-

China beckons for Central Retail : Asian expansion picks up pace for top chain

Central Retail Corp, one of the country's largest retailers, is considering expanding into China even though its attempts to expand into Southeast Asia have yet to bear fruit.

"Department stores are where we have an opportunity to expand in such a massive market. We believe that Asian department store operators can do better than Western ones [in China]," said Tos Chirathivat, the CRC chief executive officer.

He said that CRC had successfully competed in the local market against Japanese retailers, considered to be among the best retail operators in the Chinese market.

Mr Tos said the company was studying the feasibility of establishing a retail presence in China in 10 cities, including Beijing, Nanjing, Guangzhou and Shanghai. The results could be known in two or three months.

The investment would be around one billion baht per location, with the company possibly leasing space from existing outlets or developing its own centres.

Finance would come from existing cash flow, with 10 billion baht already in hand for growth. CRC would consider a listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand to finance overseas investments if needed.

"We consider China as an important market because the Chinese economy will overtake the US to become the world's biggest within the next 20 to 30 years," Mr Tos said.

"We believe that whoever can become number one in China will become number one in the world too."

CRC was recently named the top retailer out of 14 countries in the Asia Pacific by Retail Asia magazine and Euromonitor, a European consultancy. Criteria examined in the survey included customer service, merchandise, store operations, marketing communications and technology.

The new Chinese expansion strategy comes two years after Central announced plans to expand throughout Southeast Asia.

Negotiations between CRC and four separate Asean partners have collapsed, but a successful overseas deal was announced last week when CRC purchased a 39.1% stake in Singapore-based Page One Holdings, a bookstore operator.

Mr Tos said CRC was also negotiating two other deals worth around one billion baht that were expected to be finalised by the end of the year when it would also decide whether to pursue a venture in Vietnam.

To support its overseas expansion drive, CRC plans to launch a Central Retail Academy to train staff.

Meanwhile, CRC has budgeted 5.3 billion baht to expand and renovate its operations in Thailand, an 85% increase from 2005.

Plans include opening a new Central Food Hall at CentralWorld and launching a new Tops supermarket format called Tops Daily. It also plans to launch its 20th Robinson department store at Ayudhya Park later this year.

Also, Zen, located at CentralWorld, will close on Sunday for renovations and reopen by the end of the year.

Other speciality stores operated by CRC include B2S bookstores, Office Depot, HomeWorks, Supersports and Power Buy.

CRC projected its total outlets nationwide would grow to 400 by the end of the year from 357 at the end of 2005, despite the downturn in the economy.

"Political uncertainties will not have a significant impact on the retail sector if investors maintain their investment and consumers continue spending," Mr Tos explained.

But a protracted dispute could affect consumer confidence and ultimately CRC sales, he added.CRC projects 78 billion baht in sales this year, up 12% from 70 billion last year.

Gains would come from the positive performance of Tops, which generated an extra 500 million baht profit in 2005 for the firm. It was the first sign of a turnaround in the business after CRC took over the chain from NV Ahold.

Meanwhile, Central Plaza Hotel, another listed company under the Central Group, yesterday announced a 2005 dividend of 1.25 baht per share, payable on May 23.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Friday 24 March 2006 :-

Tops goes for rebranding, makeover

Central Food Retail Co Ltd (CFR), Central Group's supermarket operation, plans to spend Bt800 million renovating and rebranding its supermarkets this year.

The company will rename its three supermarket brands from Tops Supermarket, Market Place, and City Market to Tops Super, Tops Market and Central Food Hall respectively, said Ian Pye, president.

Tops Super will target middle-class customers, Tops Market high-end customers and Central Food Hall the creme de la creme. The makeover of its stores will be completed in 2009.

The company also will launch a new convenience store, Tops Daily, which will have between 300sqm and 500sqm of retail space and will target the middle-class.

Unlike Tesco Express and Seven-11 Tops Daily will sell fresh food.

Pye said that the company planned to open five Tops Daily branches this year and a further 15 in 2007.

The first Tops Daily branch will be located in Angthong province.

The company also plans to open 10 other stores under the Tops Market, Tops Super and Central Food Hall brands during the course of this year.

The company has 88 stores, including 75 Tops Supermarkets, one City Market at Central Chidlom and 12 Market Places.

The company also will open a second Central Food Hall in Central World Plaza this August at a cost of Bt350 million.

After it completes the makeover of its stores, the company expects its sales to double to Bt30 billion in 2010 from an estimated Bt15 billion last year.

The company reported a profit before interest and tax of Bt500 million last year, its first year in the black since 2000, Pye said.


Somluck Srimalee
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 29 March 2006 :-

Political paradox at Siam Paragon

Shoppers who visit Siam Paragon are often amazed at the stupendous size of the place. It can take a visitor all day or more to stroll through all far-flung corners of the luxury mall.

Though not the only shopping palace in Bangkok that flogs foreign brand-name products, Siam Paragon is the biggest, touting every chic shop from Mikimoto to Hermes. The mall's temperature is always cool, the ceilings tall, the bathrooms spacious and clean - all to match the champagne taste of its customers.

Alas, these fascinating scenes will vanish when anti-Thaksin protesters arrive to camp out in front of Siam Paragon this afternoon.

All three malls that line the left side of the bustling shopping boulevard - including Siam Centre and Siam Discovery Centre - have decided to close down today and tomorrow to avoid the headache.

It is quite a good decision as chaos spurred by rally could be unpredictable. What if people walk in and out of the mall to use the fancy toilets or break into Mikimoto and snap up a pricey pearl necklace? Nobody would be clearly held responsible - just as in the case on Sunday of a car owner whose vehicle was scratched by a protester's flagstick. Who's to blame?

The People's Alliance for Democracy is not going to the swank Siam Paragon area to shop but to woo middle-class dissidents. So closing the mall poses no trouble. There's still the worry about restrooms for the huge number of protesters, but the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration should stand ready to supply mobile toilets, as always.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 7 April 2006 :-

Boots Thailand plans to open 40 new stores

Boots, a British retailer of health and personal-care products, plans to open 20 new outlets in Thailand this fiscal year, starting this month and ending in March 2007. Another 20 stores or more would open over the company's next fiscal year, according to Ian Hunter, new managing director of Boots Retail (Thailand) Ltd, a subsidiary of Boots in the UK.

''Our parent firm has continuously invested and expanded business in Thailand because it is the biggest market for Boots International,'' Mr Hunter said.

He said that if the business plan could be achieved, the total number of Boots outlets in the Thai market would reach 138, up from the 98 recorded for the 2005 fiscal year that ended in March 2006.

Most of the new outlets will be in Bangkok, with products aimed at women over age 25.

The company projected that investment per store would be between three million and five million baht for outlets with retail space of between 70 and 100 square metres.

The company has opened six new stores since January: four in Bangkok and one each in Koh Samui and Hua Hin. It will open its 100th outlet at the Q House Building Lumpini in May.

Apart from outlet expansion, Boots' parent firm plans to support its Thai operation with an IT system and new Boots brands. By the end of 2006, more than 400 items will have been introduced to Boots shops.

As Thai people are becoming more concerned about their health, the company sees huge market potential for its personal and health-care products in the Kingdom.

Mr Hunter has three years' marketing experience with Boots International and plans to implement company best practices in Thailand. He aims to get more people to visit Boots outlets and increase their shopping frequency each month.

According to a survey conducted by a market research firm, customers visited Boots once a month to buy products.

Recently, the company launched a 10-million-baht health campaign titled ''Change Just 1 Thing'', aimed at reinforcing its position as a personal health-care and beauty specialist. It was also expected to generate double-digit growth in health-care sales for 2006.

''We expect the campaign to encourage higher health awareness among Thai people and to respond to rising demand from health-conscious people,'' said Mr Hunter.

The company also aims to lift recognition of the Boots brand in terms of quality at good prices. If people think about health care, it wants Boots to be at the top of their mind.

A free 24-hour pharmacy hotline is part of the initiative.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Friday 7 April 2006 :-

Toys 'R' Us has big Asian ambitions

After it opens a 2,300-square metre Toys "R" Us store at Central World Plaza this summer, Toys Retailing (Thailand) plans to open at least two more branches in Bangkok before 2007.

That would bring to five the number of stores the company operates in Thailand.

However that is but a small part of the company's plans. The company aims to have more than 50 stores in operation in Asia, not including Japan, by the end of next year. The next store will open in the Philippines in two months.

Li and Fung (Retailing) owns Toys Retailing and the licence to operate Toys "R" Us stores in Asia except in Japan. The company currently operates 36 Toys "R" Us stores in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore. Thailand is the fifth country in the region to receive one of the giant toy shops.

Manit Lertsakornsiri, country manager of Toys Retailing (Thailand), said the company expected to achieve sales of between Bt300 million and Bt400 million this year.

It opened the first local outlet, a 2,000-square metre store, on the sixth floor of Central City Bang Na shopping complex last December, followed by the 1,100-square metre store at Carrefour on Rama IV.

"We had a good welcome from Thai shoppers and expatriates, especially during the school holidays. Each store is attracting thousands of shoppers a day. Both branches are expected to break even within two years," said Manit.

Opening stores in Bangkok costs between Bt40 million and Bt50 million each.

Manit said that its retail partners, Central and Carrefour, had offered space in their shopping complexes in north and western Bangkok.


Kwanchai Rungfapaisarn
The Nation

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Saturday 15 April 2006 :-

Hypermarkets scale down, go upcountry

A new battle between the hypermarket chains is under way - not in the capital, but upcountry.

Tesco Lotus, Carrefour and Big C have all modified their store formats to meet local regulations, smaller communities and different consumers' requirements, and they are spreading into the provinces.

The first player, Tesco Lotus, has spent the past two years diversifying its retail formats to serve different locations and shoppers' demands.

It began by launching its Tesco Lotus Express stores, about the size of convenience stores. The first Express stores were located at petrol stations, but the company has since expanded to shop-house locations.

The company has opened 135 Express outlets so far, and plans to open another 100 this year.

Another of Tesco Lotus's new retail formats - "Talad Lotus" - is still on trial. It was developed to serve smaller communities both in Bangkok and upcountry.

The new stores offer a full range of both fresh food and dry grocery items at Tesco lotus hypermarket prices.

Stores in the trial programme have opened at Maha Sarakham, Pinklao and Chinatown and an existing Tesco Lotus supermarket at Phongphet will be converted to a Talad Lotus store by July.

"We are very excited about this new Talad Lotus concept," said Tesco Lotus chief executive Jeff Adams.

"Customers told us they wanted a more conveniently located food store with a full range of food products. We will keep the same low prices as our hypermarkets."

Talad Lotus stores will vary between 700 and 1,500 square metres in size, and will carry a range of 6,000 to 9,000 fresh food, dry grocery, and daily household items.

Adams said Tesco Lotus had also successfully introduced a new compact format called "Khum Kha" stores in upcountry communities. About 14 Khum Kha stores have been opened so far.

In addition, Tesco Lotus has 55 standard-format hypermarkets in major cities throughout the country.

The French hypermarket chain Carrefour recently announced a new smaller-store format to help the company speed up its up-country presence. Carrefour currently has 23 hypermarkets.

Most of them are in Bangkok, but the most recently opened are in Hat Yai and Chachoengsao.

Carrefour Thailand managing director Luc Dayot said the company wanted to open smaller hypermarket stores, with retail space of between 4,000 and 6,000sqm, particularly upcountry.

The smaller format will comply with local retail zoning regulations in the provinces, which prohibit the opening of large-scale complexes.

"We plan to open three or four smaller stores this year at Chon Buri, Phuket and Chiang Mai," Dayot said, adding that the smaller outlets will take about six months to build, compared to between eight and 12 months for conventional hypermarkets.

"The new smaller stores will serve communities with fewer than 50,000 households," he said.

"Our hypermarkets serve communities of not fewer than 150,000 households."

Dayot said the investment required for a smaller outlet was about Bt300 million, compared to Bt1 billion for a 10,000-sqm hypermarket.

Big C Supercentre will invest Bt2 billion to open four new outlets this year. Two of them will be of a compact size.

New Big C stores will open in Phrae and Ratchaburi in the middle of the year and two more, also upcountry, by the end of the year.

The Phrae store will be a compact model with retail space of 5,800sqm, while Ratchaburi will follow a standard format with 9,000 to 10,000sqm.

Big C operates 45 hypermarkets across the country.

Twenty-four of them are in Bangkok.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Sunday 16 April 2006 :-

On the bread line:
What's so special about a simple bun that makes people queue for hours?

On a corner of Siam Square, a couple of guys wandering around with bakery bags are trying to sell freshly-baked buns for 30 to 35 baht. Their daily routine might not seem unusual if you don't know that just around the block, some 60 people were queueing for the same type of bread - a plain-looking yet very aromatic and scrumptious creation which the entrepreneur who brought it to popular success refers to it as "god given".

To put it simply, those street sellers are part of the black market, buying the buns from the shop and re-sellling them at 10 to 15 baht higher. The customers willing to stand in line for hours are either die-hard bread fans, or serious trend-catchers. And the man who started this bakery shop known as Rotiboy Bakeshoppe is a Malaysian economics lecturer-turned-baker and franchise master who is now looking at 100 percent business growth each month. He, and his copycats, have brought to the city a three-month-old phenomenon that revolves around little more than a rotund bun.

"The demand that we are looking at is way above what we can produce in one outlet," says Rotiboy's founder, Hiro Tan. "If we are talking about the queue relative to whether or not there is a queue, let's put it this way: even when we sold 10,000 buns per day, the queue was still long. It's the capacity of the oven that causes the waiting. We have no intention to let people wait that long. Our main objective all the time is no queue. We want our customers to come and get hot buns and go, but because the demand is so great these queues become normal."

The Rotiboy master insists that he would do anything to shorten the queues. In the past, when each outlet only had two ovens, they produced 720 buns an hour and the longest time customers have ever waited was two and a half hours. But the company has just added another oven at the Siam Square branch so they are able to produce 1,400 buns every hour with the expectation that the queue at the Siam outlet will come down.

"People think no queue means no business, which is not true. It depends on how efficient you are. If you have a very small oven, a queue doesn't meant you have a lot of business - it really depends. The capacity of the oven is very important. Even now at our new branch in Central Lat Phrao we have no queue but we are still selling well. Why? Because if people see no queue they will come and buy and in that sense the selling will still be ongoing and that's what we want," he said.

For many office workers in and around the Siam Square and Silom areas where the first two Rotiboy outlets are located, it has become the norm to hire messengers to queue for the buns - colleagues share the expenses as well as the buns. At one insurance company, the Rotiboy bun has become a marketing tool: the firm gives the buns to customers to express their thanks.

Following Rotiboy's fortune, several brands have been established simply to offer the same kind of bun: the warm and fragrant coffee-cream coated bun with buttery filling. Taking Bangkok by storm are Mr Bun, Baker's Boy, Coffee Dome and Papa Roti. Of course, they all have long queues, too.

According to Vilawan Limprana, PR and outlet planning director of Coffee Dome, the only Thai-owned company to jump on the bandwagon in February this year, the success was far beyond the company's expection. Each outlet of Coffee Dome sells around 3,000 buns a day. And Vilawan insists that they've never wanted customers to wait for long. "We are not creating the marketing strategy with a pause in the selling," she said. "We have even come up with a new service system: customers can order and pay in advance and come back with the receipt to pick up their orders within 10 minutes."

With outlets in Carrefour Rama 4 and The Mall Bang Khae, the company plans to open eight more outlets within the next four months to create a total of 20 by the end of the year.

Coffee Dome is not the only brand that has plans for a great expansion. With four existing outlets at various branches of The Mall, the Malaysian brand Baker's Boy, which arrived in Bangkok three months ago, is set to launch 20 more shops in Thailand before the end of 2006. Meanwhile the Bangkok-based, Singaporean-own Mr Bun is looking at as many as 50 outlets within the year.

Mr Bun is another interesting brand to be noted. It was the first shop to introduce the so-called Mexican bun to Thailand last year. Besides the classic coffee bun, there are also strawberry and coconut flavours available. The size of the buns are smaller compared to the typical "rotiboy" bun and the price is 10 baht per piece. Right now there are 13 branches dotting Bangkok's outskirts and even at branches in a lower-end mall like Zeer Rangsit, queues of 20 to 30 people are usual. While at more busy outlets like at Central Rama 3 and Seacon Square, it is normal for customers to wait for an hour on a weekend when the shops each sell more than 10,000 buns a day.

So what is so special about the bun?

Each Rotiboy Bakeshoppe sells approximately 10,000 buns each day and the longest time people have ever queued for the buns was two and a half hours.

"It's the whole combination: the taste is exceptional, the aroma is great and the price is reasonable," said Rotiboy's Tan. "The generic name for the bun is Mexican bun and I'm not the one who created it. The recipe was already there. It's a common recipe that you can get from cookbooks or the internet. It's not Western, I believe it's Oriental bread. My sister once made this bun for her employer a long time ago. Then I took it and simply modified it a little. We are the first one to sell it that way."

Tan firmly believes that there will never be another bun like this. "This is god given - the only one of its kind. We are not even confident of making another bun that suits people's sense like this one. It is something special that comes once in a long while. No bun can create such a response from people, not even 50 percent of this, whether in Malaysia, Singapore or Indonesia. The response has been tremendous."

Tan said at the end of this year, he is looking at 300 to 350 million baht turnover with six to seven more outlets to be opened by the end of June - at Ramkhamhaeng (adjacent to Big C), Central World Plaza, Victory Monument, Bang Kapi (near Tawanna), MBK and Kasetsart University. And at the MBK outlet, 15 extra items will be featured and Tan's most recommended are Oriental pizza, garlic bread and cream roll.

And tips for those who need to keep the Rotiboy buns overnight?

"Generally we don't encourage people to buy a lot and keep them over too many days. If it's necessary you can store the bun in its bag in the freezer - not the chiller compartment. The next day put it in the oven at about 150 degrees for a couple of minutes. This product is best when it's warm."

From today until April 16, Rotiboy fans might be suffering, not from the heat, but from craving, because the Silom and in Siam Square outlets will be closed for a few days so that staff can go home for Songkran. But there's still be some good news: the Central Lat Phrao branch will still operate during the festival. Meanwhile, the Silom branch customers can call to place their orders in advance, and they are planning to offer a delivery service in the near future.

------------ continued --------------

[KatoeyLover69]

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Report from Bangkok Post dated Sunday 16 April 2006 :-


IS IT WORTH THE WAIT?

- Montrinee Trichatchawanwong, 21, university student

"I kind of like it but not that much. But more importantly, having tried the [Rotiboy] bun made me feel like I'm in the trend whenever people ask if I've tried it yet."

- Suttipong Jarulnamsiri, 27, office worker

"The first time I saw the long queue I didn't know exactly what the bun was like but I decided to get in the line anyway because the aroma was so tempting that I really wanted to give it a try. Yes, it was absolutely worth the 40-minute wait. The second time I decided to be at the shop 10 minutes before it opened but there were people queueing already, and it took around 20 minutes for me to get the buns. Even though I only want a couple of buns, I always buy 10 pieces just to make the wait more worthwhile."

- Hatairat Saengwattana, 34, business owner

"Someone bought the buns for me and I admit that they were delicious even after I kept them overnight and reheated them. But am I patient enough to stand in line for hours for just bread? Absolutely not."

- Tanuntiya Thidhaphan, 36, housewife

"When I first saw the queue I thought those people were trying to apply for a visa. But when I learnt that it was a bread shop they were lining for, I felt that the owners of the shop must have done something really really good in their previous lives and god has now rewarded them with such a successful business."

- Nipaphan Singhabandhu, 37, university lecturer

"Yes I have tried the bun and I enjoyed it. But, personally, I would feel too embarrased to queue for a bun. It seems like a craze. Management wise, doesn't a long queue mean a failing operation system?"

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

The Rotiboy Bakeshoppe opened in Penang, Malaysia in 1998 selling a variety of breads and cakes. In 2002, with more outlets opening, it experienced a phenomenal growth in the sales of its Mexican bun, which was later been renamed the Rotiboy bun. Within a couple of years, and with the opening of more branches in Malaysia, Singapore and

Indonesia that only sell this unique bun, several copycat shops sprung up to tap into this highly lucrative market.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Thursday 20 April 2006 :-

TAKING THE STING OUT OF HIDE : Labrador Factory stands out with its high quality leather, unique designs, and unusual affordability

Anek Kulthaveesup and his friend Supreeya Udonchai had no idea that one day they would be able to turn their passions into a flourishing venture.

But two years ago, Labrador Factory emerged as a manufacturer of leather stationery and furniture. What makes this company different is its unique design and the high quality of its leather.

Mr Anek, a 29-year-old interior designer who has expanded his skills into furniture and stationery, said the company was based on the firm belief that following one's passions in life would eventually lead to job satisfaction and success in business.

The designer said he had come across several pieces of stylish leather stationery in art-supply stores overseas. However, he didn't buy them because the prices were so unreasonably high.

''So now we're making what we once couldn't afford, but at affordable prices. We know what consumers want, since we once were consumers too,'' said Ms Supreeya.

Currently the pair produce more than 30 leather items, including business-card holders, notebooks, CD organisers, document folders, vases and beanbags - prices range from 300 to 1,200 baht.

''The prices are two to three times cheaper than for imported products,'' she said.

The company's products are currently sold in various department stores such as Central, The Loft, Propaganda, and stylish shops in the Siam Center and Siam Paragon.

Initially, the company did not own a factory but produced goods under sub-contract agreements. However, difficulties in quality control and production delays led the founders to open a three-million-baht factory in Nonthaburi.

An engineer graduate from Kasetsart University, Ms Supreeya took control of the factory and production processes, leaving Mr Anek more involved in product design.

After a shaky start, the company has seen sharp growth in revenue of between 200% and 300% over the past two years. It expects similar figures this year.

Its core market is still domestic, representing 95% of total sales, leaving 5% for export, mainly to Singapore, Japan, France and Holland.

The Labrador Factory stakes its claim on its products' unique quality, design focus and services. Delivery is usually punctual and retail customers are guaranteed that if the products are found to be damaged they can be returned and changed within three months.

The company has focused on building its own brand over original equipment manufacturing (OEM). Sometimes it produces premium products tailored to customers' needs.

''The key reason is that we don't want to confuse our end customers over who is actually the owner of the designs, which can easily be mixed-up when an OEM is involved,'' Ms Supreeya explained.

For the export market, however, it relaxes the rules and takes OEM orders, but only from customers who come up with their own designs.

''We're very serious and cautious about brand building and image,'' Ms Supreeya said.

Due to its emphasis on brand building, the company's long-term goal is to build up local customers' awareness of Labrador. Customers are 40-year olds and under at the medium to high end.

The company plans to achieve this with a distribution strategy of only selling its products in stylish shops that fit the product's image, through brand positioning and advertising through magazines.

It also plans to continue making itself known at exhibitions and fairs, such as the Bangkok International Gift Fair (BIG).

In terms of short-term expansion, it plans to continue to increase its variety of product lines every six months.

The founders believe their early success has allowed the small company to manoeuvre flexibly and keep control over its production and quality, as well as maintaining direct contact with the customers.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Wednesday 26 April 2006 :-

Diana cuts losses with majority sale : 75% stake goes to technology investor

After struggling for a decade, the major shareholders of SET-listed Diana Department Store Plc, led by Netr Chantrasmi, have decided to sell their 75.38% stake to Jrarat Pingclasai, an investor in technology businesses, for 40 million baht. Mr Netr and his group, composed of Thayanee Co Ltd, Phithan Panich Co Ltd, the Chantrasmi family, Pithanpanich Co, Thayanee Co and minor shareholders, agreed to sell the 9.8 million shares.

The news sent Diana shares up 30% yesterday on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. They closed at 5.20 baht, up 1.20 baht, in trade worth 23,700 baht.

Mr Netr, managing director of Diana Department Store, said the group made the decision because it would help the company to clear its 200-million-baht accumulated loss and pay off debts.

''If I do nothing, it will take 20 years to clear off the accumulated debt of 200 million, which has existed since listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Moreover, the firm will be able to reduce its financial burden,'' he said.

He said the loss came from an influx of foreign retail chains to Hat Yai, fuelling market competition. However, he said he had not given up on the business.

He said Chinese products had been introduced to the garment and accessory segments as the profit margin was three times higher than on Thai-made products.

After a year-long experimental period, the store received a positive response from customers, as Chinese products matched local customer purchasing power.

In 2005, Diana posted a 13.64-million-baht loss on total sales of 574.88 million.

Mr Jrarat, a former executive of M Group and CEO of the technology company IEC, said he was interested in buying Diana shares because the business had good cash flow of up to 400 million baht a year. In the future, he said, he would become the company CEO and diversify business.

Mr Jrarat is also considering the purchase of a number of other companies similar to Diana in the near future.

The share sale includes conditions that the assets and liabilities of Diana Department Store will be transferred to a subsidiary, Diana Convenience Store, and Mr Netr will still run Diana Department Store.

The transaction is expected to be completed in June if the company's board of directors and the shareholders agree to the sale at the book value as of March 31 2006. Business operating permits will also be transferred to Diana Convenience Store.

The shareholders will meet on May 29 to approve the transaction.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 28 April 2006 :-

Central wins bid for most valuable land

Central Retail Corporation (CRC), the country's largest retail chain, has won the bid for the British Embassy land, which has been touted as the most valuable plot in Thailand. An industry source said CRC beat Land & Houses Plc in the final round of bidding with an offer of more than 900,000 baht per square wah, or three billion baht, for the prime nine-rai plot on the corner of Wireless and Phloen Chit roads, while the latter proposed 880,000 baht.

In the first round, LH offered more than CRC at 830,000 baht per square wah with a proposal to build accommodation for embassy staff and compensate for its relocation over the next two years.

Executives at CRC declined to disclose details, saying the embassy would officially announce the outcome.

However, an informed source at the Central Group of Companies said there were plans to turn the plot into a first-class commercial project, with a shopping area, serviced apartments or hotel and an entertainment anchor.

''With the tough retail competition, Central Chidlom needs to expand and if it can do this, it will be able to satisfy growing consumer requirements. Central Chidlom and the new development will become a one-stop shopping destination in Phloen Chit,'' he said.

At present, Central Chidlom has limited space to stage marketing events and a long list of retail tenants who want to open outlets there.

Central Chidlom leases a one-rai plot from the Kamol Sukosol Group for parking space, which would be in jeopardy if the lease cannot be renewed.

The source said Central Chidlom had a variety of customers, and must have various brand names to serve everyone.

The new shopping development on embassy land would include a number of international brand names for fashion apparel to food and leather products.

In another development, Kobchai Chirathivat, the president of Central Pattana Plc, the group's property development arm, confirmed that CentralWorld would open on June 30, on schedule.

The company was confident that CentralWorld would be a success despite the economic slowdown and the impact of soaring oil prices and interest rates.

During the 1997-98 crisis, Mr Kobchai said, consumers still chose to shop at leading retail sites. Sales of CPN dropped only 5% during the 1997 recession.

He added that CentralWorld, which offered a variety of products and services, would remain attractive even if it opened in a weak economic environment.

He said CentralWorld was about 90% complete and 92% of the space was already booked by retailers. Overall construction was set to be be completed by the end of this year and in the next two years for its 55-storey hotel.

When all outlets are completed, its total space will amount to 550,000 square metres. Of the total, about 20% has been reserved by retail outlets under the Central Group.Wallaya Chirathivat, executive vice-president for business development at CPN, said the company would spend 300 million baht in the first year of operations to promote the project. A similar budget would also be spent the following year.

She expected there would be about 150,000 shoppers per day, earning the company 140 billion baht each year.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 1 May 2006 :-

Seri Center adapting to changing needs

The operator of Seri Center is looking for partners and adopting a new policy to rotate vendors every month to differentiate its shopping complex on Srinakarin Road.

"If you think of the Seri Center, our tenants are different from those of other shopping centres in Bangkok. Our store is a destination for customers who really want to shop for daily products, not for luxury items," said Vorrapong Sukteera-anantachai, the assistant managing director of Seri Center Management Co.

The changes would help the company maintain its number of customers in all kinds of economic environments, he said.

The company plans to spend about 50 million baht on minor changes to the second and third floors of the shopping centre. It will set aside 2,500 square metres of sales space to add about 10 new tenants related to education, augmenting the 24 educational and tutoring centres that currently provide services.

As well, Aquatina, which sells various kinds of fish, will open its doors in a 1,000-square-metre space next month.

The company also plans to start modifying another 1,000 square metres in preparation for the addition of the D Day IT Market, which will comprise about 70 small IT stores. More new services are also set to be added soon.

Despite competition from big retailers in the area, including Central, Big C and Robinson located in the giant Seacon Square nearby, Seri Center expects to increase its visitors to 28,000 per day during the week and 50,000 on weekends.

"We are gaining more than we lose," said Mr Vorrapong. "Due to the rise in oil prices, consumers have changed their behaviour to shop at stores nearer home. There are enough crowds of customers from new housing estates, factories and office buildings in the Srinakarin location."

He said the company tried to offer products that could not be found at other retail chains and every month new vendors would replace existing ones to offer a change.

Mr Vorrapong said he expected the company's sales would reach 460 million baht by the end of the year, up by about 12% over last year.

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 15 May 2006 :-

British Embassy completes sale of nine-rai plot to Central

The British government yesterday completed the sale of part of its Bangkok embassy compound on Phloen Chit Road to the Central Group, the country's largest retail operator.

The price of the prized nine-rai plot to Central affiliate Tiang Chirathivat Real Estate Co was not disclosed but industry experts estimated it at three billion baht.

Central edged Land & Houses Plc, the country's largest residential developer, in the contest to acquire the site. The company wants to turn the plot into a shopping area, serviced apartments or a hotel and entertainment anchor to complement its nearby Central Chidlom store.

Intense competition in the retail business in Bangkok's central business district has driven Central to seek ways to build on its existing businesses, which are now constrained by limited space, according to industry analysts.

Central executives declined to comment on the deal, but the British Embassy said yesterday it was the largest-ever property sale by the Foreign Office. The historic residence, the embassy and the "green character" of the compound would be preserved, it said.

About 11 million (770 million baht) of the proceeds will fund redevelopment of the remainder of the compound, including new staff accommodation, recreational facilities, remodelling of the embassy offices and security work.

The embassy said that the 32.3-rai compound, purchased in 1922, was larger than needed. It said the land sold was the most polluted and noisiest part of the compound, next to the six-lane Phloen Chit Road and the BTS skytrain.

The War Memorial and statue of Queen Victoria would be moved to appropriate sites near the residence, officials said.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Wednesday 17 May 2006 :-

Roti-bun maker targets 100 outlets by year-end

Asia Foods Connection Co Ltd - a Malaysian franchiser of PaPa Roti buns - plans to open 100 outlets by the end of the year.

Managing director Chachawal Daengbunga said yesterday that PaPa Roti, which entered the Thai market on February 26, already has five branches in Bangkok. The outlets at Siam Square and Future Park, Rangsit, are run by the company itself.

The company has established its factory on Rama IV road. Though current production is hand-made, the company plans to invest an additional Bt10 million to import machines in the next few months as the number of franchisees increase.

Current production is 60,000 buns per day with a maximum capacity of 80,000.
The company expects to have 50 franchise outlets in Bangkok and another 50in other parts of the country.

Each outlet requires 25 square metres of space and an investment of Bt1.5-2 million.

To reach breakeven point within three months, each outlet will have to sell up to 3,000 buns per day at Bt25 apiece.

The company is also negotiating with a major fast-food chain to home-deliver its products to customers and expects to conclude the deal soon.

At the same time, the company is creating a strategy to build greater awareness of the PaPa Roti brand with a Bt1-million marketing budget. One advertising ploy would be using a Mobile Unit with the PaPa Roti logo, which will travel around Bangkok.

Since many Thai people perceive buns as an unhealthy food due to their oily ingredients, the company plans to promote its buns as a healthy option by providing a list of ingredients and their nutritive values on each package.

The company expects to generate Bt150 million in sales by the year-end.

Chachawal is not worried about PaPa Roti buns suffering the same fate as the short boom-and-bust phenomenon of "milk tea" in the last few years.

"It depends on what players in the bun market do to extend the market in the long run," he said. "What ruined the "milk tea" life cycle was the aggressive expansion of franchisees without thinking about oversupply."

Currently, the company has only coffee flavour but plans to launch another flavour within the next six months. Chachawal declined to reveal details.

PaPa Roti has businesses in Malaysia, Singapore China, and Indonesia. It plans to penetrate South Korea, Philippines, and Vietnam.

Asia Foods Connection was established in Thailand late last year with Bt3.6 million in registered capital.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Tuesday 23 May 2006 :-

Tesco Lotus rushes to open small stores

Despite the falling purchasing power of consumers, the operator of the Tesco Lotus discount-store chain will speed up the expansion of Talad Lotus and Tesco Lotus Express outlets by at least three times ahead of the original plan.

Wholly owned by UK-based retail giant Tesco, the company plans to open at least 20 Talad Lotus outlets nationwide this year, compared to only five last year, said Jeff Adams, chief executive of Ek-Chai Distribution System Co Ltd.

Talad Lotus is in effect a food store offering a full range of both fresh foods and dry grocery items at conveniently located sites.

As well, about 150 new Tesco Lotus Express stores, the compact version of Tesco Lotus which operate 24 hours a day, will be added this year, compared to 60 last year.

After the expansion, the total number of Talad Lotus and Tesco Lotus Express outlets will reach 30 and 250 respectively.

A market analyst said Tesco Lotus had shifted to aggressively expanding its two smaller retail formats to cash in on a change in consumers' behaviour toward neighbourhood shopping.

Central Food Retail, one of the major players in the local retail market, is also reportedly planing to do the same by opening Tops Daily in Bangkok soon.

As a result, Tesco Lotus might have wanted to move first in order to secure prime locations, the analyst said.

Mr Adams said the total investment this year was seven billion baht, on par with last year's figure, but declined to be specific about the investment cost of adding more Talad Lotus and Tesco Lotus Express stores.

Despite the ongoing economic and political difficulties, sales of all retail formats - Tesco Lotus hypermarket, Talad Lotus and Tesco Lotus Express - in the first five months of this year are still on tar get, as food is generally not high on the list when consumers cut their spending.

Apart from this, Tesco Lotus has revamped its health-and-beauty department. A joint marketing campaign is being held with Unilever Thai Trading to survey the needs of all customer segments.

The research found that shoppers are looking for convenience, comfort and simple choices in an excitingly modern environment when they are looking for health and beauty products.

In addition, they want spend some time while shopping there.

Tesco Lotus has thus remodelled its health and beauty department to meet their needs. The project's first phase started in May at the Tesco Lotus Rama IV store, which will be adopted as a model for other branches soon.

Part of a worldwide phenomenon, the interest and popularity of health and beauty products have been rising dramatically in Thailand in recent years, resulting in double-digit sales growth.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Sunday 28 May 2006 :-

Big C mounts small-shop challenge :Slower growth forces retailers to diversify

The hypermarket operator Big C is expanding into convenience stores, challenging the dominance of the 7-Eleven chain operated by the Charoen Pokphand Group. According to a source at Big C Supercenter Plc, the company believes convenience stores are one of two retail formats with potential to expand because local purchasing power is still high. During times of economic uncertainty, consumers tended to shop closer to their homes because of the impact of high oil prices.

Big C, whose major shareholder is the French retail chain Casino, opened its first Mini Big C outlet - the company's fourth retail format - as a prototype store on Sukhumvit 103 in mid-May.

It plans to announce a proposal shortly to open dozens more outlets in Bangkok and its suburbs by the end of this year.

A Mini Big C outlet has sales space of 200 square metres and carries about 2,000 product items including beverages, snacks, cosmetics and vegetables, with parking space for about 10 cars.

The source said that adding a smaller retail format would help Big C diversify and reduce reliance on large superstores, for which good sites are becoming harder to find. As well, new government zoning regulations aim to curb hypermarket openings in central business districts.

Big C's rivals, particularly Tesco Lotus, have also been expanding into new, smaller formats. They include Tesco Lotus Express, Talad Lotus and Value Store, which aim to get closer to communities.

Currently, Big C is the country's second largest discount store chain with 50 outlets nationwide. Of the total, 45 are conventional and Big C Compact stores and the remaining five are Leader Price stores selling Big C house-brand products.

Big C shares closed yesterday on the Stock Exchange of Thailand at 38.50 baht, down 25 satang, in trade worth 10.2 million baht. According to Chatrchai Tuongratanaphan, a consultant to the Thailand Retail Association, declining consumer purchasing power was becoming a real threat to the 1.1-trillion-baht worth of Thailand retail business.

Many experts anticipate sluggish or flat growth this year, said participants at a seminar on wholesale and retail trends held yesterday by the Thai Chamber of Commerce.

Speakers including Siam Paragon Development's Supaluck Umpujh and Siam Makro's Suchada Ithijarukul said retailers would need to adopt various strategies to keep their businesses growing.

They include differentiating stores from rivals, reducing operating costs, delaying big new investments, focusing on their core strengths, turning rivals into partners, and joining forces where possible in purchasing in order to lower costs.

''Whether the economy is good or bad, the significant factor making a retailer stand out in the market is to have the lowest operating cost,'' said Mrs Suchada.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Monday 29 2006 :-

Papa John's targets Bangkok debut

Papa John's, one of the world's largest pizza companies, is looking to debut in Bangkok as part of a global expansion plan to double its outlet total to 6,000 over the next five years.

The company considers Thailand a strategic location to help accelerate expansion in Asia, according to Mike Stout, director of international business development at Papa John's International Inc.

The company sees huge market potential for the pizza business in Thailand, he said, citing statistics from the United States Commercial Services in Bangkok showing that the franchised food business in Thailand was showing strong growth of about 30% per year.

Sales of Papa John's in Asia also grew by 30% when compared to its average growth of 13% in the international market, and only 6% in the United States.

During his second visit to Thailand last week, Mr Stout met with various restaurant chains and snack manufacturers to discuss the Papa John's master franchise.

Papa John's is also actively pursuing growth opportunities in other Asia-Pacific markets such as Taiwan, Philippines, New Zealand and Australia.

Mr Stout expects to close a business deal with a Thai partner this year and aims to open the first Papa John's restaurant in Bangkok next year.

Papa John's will come in two formats: delivery kiosks and restaurants.

For investors interested in taking on the Papa John's master franchise, the company will charge US$300,000 for a partnership agreement.

The Thai pizza market is very competitive, with two major brands - Yum! restaurants' Pizza Hut, and Minor International Plc's The Pizza Company - dominating the market with a combined 230 outlets nationwide.

The world's second largest pizza chain, Domino's Pizza, withdrew its operations from Thailand several years ago.

Mr Stout believed that there was still market demand for premium-quality pizzas at competitive prices. The company has found that consumers are willing to spend a little more for a great pizza.

He commented that the reason why Domino's terminated its business in Thailand could have been because it could not find the right partner. Also, Domino's only offered delivery service, which did not fit with current consumer demand.

"We have proved in the US and other international markets that we can compete on quality, avoid major discounting and provide an alternative to the competition," he said.

Peerapong Kitiveshpokawat, president of the Franchise and Thai SMEs Business Association, said the pizza business was the fourth most popular fast-food choice for Thai consumers. But there was still potential because the market size was as big as four billion baht per year. Also, the number of franchised fast-food outlets in Thailand doubled to 20,000 last year.

"Apart from food taste and strong distribution channels, teamwork and strong investment are key factors in making a pizza brand stand out in the market in the long term," said Mr Peerapong.

Papa John's expanded its pizza business to Asia two years ago. It now has 39 Asian outlets in total. Of this figure, 30 are in China, eight in South Korea and one in New Deli. It plans to establish 10 new outlets in China, six in South Korea and four in India by the end of this year.

Within the next five years, the total number of Papa John's outlets will rise to 250 in China, 80 in South Korea, 300 in India, 50 in Malaysia, 20 in Singapore and 75 in Thailand.

Sales of Papa John's last year totalled US$2 billion. It expects to have 6,000 outlets worldwide within five years, up from 3,038 as of January this year.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Tuesday 6 June 2006 :-

SRT PROPERTY / LAT PHRAO LAND LEASE : Central asked to pay B10bn

Central Pattana Plc should pay the state railway at least 10 billion baht if it wants to extend the land lease for its lucrative department store and hotel complex in Lat Phrao, caretaker Transport Minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal reiterated yesterday.

The Central Lat Phrao Shopping Complex and adjoining Sofitel Central Hotel are both on railway land.

Mr Pongsak said if Central was not willing to pay a reasonable return, then the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) would look at other options.

The Council of State would, meanwhile, be asked to advise whether the SRT can terminate the lease and develop the 47 rai of land itself. The 30-year land lease expires on Dec 18, 2008.

"I have talked with many traders renting space in the Central shopping complex and my calculations suggest the SRT should get at least 10 billion baht," Mr Pongsak said.

"If this is not negotiable with the lessee, there can be a bidding contest to find a new contractor."

SRT governor Chitsanti Dhanasobhon said Central had already sought to negotiate an extension of the lease. But the SRT had yet to hire a consultant to appraise the land and assets to set a framework for the negotiations. The SRT was also planning the commercial development of its other land holdings, especially those in the Makkasan, Phahon Yothin and Chong Nonsi areas, to raise revenue to support and improve its train services.

The 400 rai in the Makkasan area would be developed to serve the new railway linking inner Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi airport. The Phahon Yothin area, more than 200 rai, would serve a new public transport centre in nearby Bang Sue.

Mr Chitsanti said Mr Pongsak had suggested the SRT find large property developers instead of leasing the land to small entrepreneurs.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from The Nation dated Thursday 8 June 2006 :-

Top brands too pricey - survey

Nine out of 10 Thais think designer brands are overpriced. When they do buy them, they favour DKNY, Christian Dior and Chanel; though were money no object, Louis Vuitton would be their brand of choice.

So claims a global online survey of 23,500 consumers in 42 countries conducted by ACNielsen in November 2005. It found that 77 per cent of consumers worldwide perceive designer brands as being overpriced, with 90 per cent of Thais feeling the same.

Almost half the Thais surveyed said designer brands were of significantly higher quality than standard brands, while 70 per cent said people wore designer labels in an effort to project their social status.

When asked what brands they purchased, 16 per cent of global respondents chose Ralph Lauren. Gucci (14 per cent), Christian Dior (12 per cent) and DKNY (12 per cent) followed. In Asia Pacific, the rankings were similar, with the exception that Louis Vuitton also made the top 5, with at least one in 10 consumers claiming to have bought the French brand.

In Thailand, 18 per cent of people said they purchased designer brands. DKNY, with 17 per cent, ranked first, followed by Christian Dior (15 per cent), Chanel (12 per cent), Giorgio Armani (11 per cent) and Louis Vuitton (9 per cent).

However, if money were no object, Thai consumers said they would go for Louis Vuitton (32 per cent), Gucci (30 per cent) and Giorgio Armani (22 per cent). Chantira Luesakul, managing director of ACNielsen Thailand said: "A brand cannot be built overnight and it is even more difficult to sustain."

To be successful in diverse international markets, designer brands have to ensure that the values they want to be known for transcend cultures and age groups. And that's not easy in the fickle fashion industry where trends and fads are the order of the day, Chantira said.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 9 June 2006 :-

CentralWorld on course to claim crown as largest mall in Thailand

CentralWorld will become the largest mixed-used shopping centre in Bangkok when it opens on July 21, 2006. About 85% of the lifestyle retail complex will be ready on that day, while the remaining areas, including Zen Department Store and a nearby zone, will be completed in December.

A celebration will be held in August, according to Sudthidej Chirathivat, senior executive vice-president for business development and project construction at Central Pattana Plc.

''The size of the shopping complex at CentralWorld will be 30% bigger than Siam Paragon, which is widely known as the largest in the heart of the city at the moment,'' Mr Sudthidej said.

CentralWorld has a total project space of 830,000 square metres, which comprises the Shopping Complex (550,000 sq m), a five-star hotel with 500 rooms, a Convention Centre over 17,000 sq m, a 45-storey office building covering 80,000 sq m and an indoor parking space for more than 7,000 vehicles.

The office tower has been completed while the convention centre is due for completion in 2006 and the hotel in 2008.

Currently, the 15-billion-baht Siam Paragon, which is located next to Siam Discovery and Siam Centre in the Pathumwan area, has total space of 500,000 sq m.

Mr Sudthidej said CPN had been spending 26 billion baht to develop and renovate CentralWorld, which occupies the site formerly known as the World Trade Center on a 64-rai leasehold plot at the Ratchaprasong intersection.

Wallaya Chirathivat, the executive vice-president for business development at CPN, said the seven-floor shopping complex consisted of two department stores (Zen and Isetan), 500 shops including 35 flagship stores and 36 that are the first of their kind in Thailand, six specialised mega-stores, 50 restaurants, 18 cinemas, a bowling hall, children's zone and learning centre and an outdoor square.

The complex has six zones, each designed to offer shoppers a different ambience within a single over-riding theme. About 400 of the shops will be open for shoppers in July.

''We hope to attract 150,000 shoppers per day, of whom 50,000 will be tourists,'' Mrs Wallaya said.

''They can have real shopping experiences because we will have a wide range of brands and products that one can afford,'' she added.

The exterior of CentralWorld features a state-of-the-art 300-metre long glass facade and two LED screens placed on the facade, while the main features inside are a waterfall, a translucent mobile art installation and several ''magical chairs'' that can change from opaque to clear when sat upon.

The glass facade is intended to give the whole centre a sense of transparency and create a light and joyful mood.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 9 June 2006 :-

Index taps Chiang Mai property boom : Home-furnisher focuses on cash-rich

Index Living Mall Co plans to spend 800 million baht to open Southeast Asia's largest home-furnishings store in Chiang Mai next month. Index managing director Kijja Pattamasathayasonthi said Chiang Mai had high purchasing power from tourists and residents.

The housing industry in the North has expanded significantly, benefiting the home-furnishing segment.

According to the Real Estate Information Center, 21,954 housing units were launched in Chiang Mai and Lamphun during the first quarter of this year. In the same period, 94 condominium buildings were launched in Chiang Mai and one in Lamphun, with a total of 454 units.

''The growth of the condominium market in Chiang Mai is expected to continue. So we hope to build our new outlet to be the main home-furnishing centre for that area,'' said Mr Kijja.

He said that the new Lanna-style Index store, located between Carrefour and Tesco Lotus on the superhighway, would occupy 20,000 square metres, compared to the existing outlets, sized between 5,000 and 15,000 sq m. The additional outlet will bring its total number to 13 by the end of this year.

Mr Kijja added that the company also planned to build a new outlet on Bangkok's Rama II Road, costing 700 million baht, next year.

Last week, Index opened its 12th outlet in Bang Yai district in Nonthaburi, which covers 15,000 sq m and cost around 700 million baht. To stimulate sales, the company has installed 100 sample rooms to inspire consumer imagination.

Besides the investment for opening new outlets, he said Index had also invested about 50 million baht to improve logistic management to cut operating costs which stemmed largely from rising oil prices.

Factory and warehouse logistics systems have already been linked, and the company plans to connect these with its supplier database in the approaching month.

Mr Kijja said his business was doing fine to date. The company expected its sales this year to grow by 5-10% from 5.5 billion baht last year. Of the total, about 55% was local sales and the remainder from export.

''I'm only worried about the foreign-exchange fluctuation, which could mean losses,'' said Mr Kijja.

Pong Skuntanaga, vice-president of CRC Power Retail Co, the hardware and home-improvement unit of Central Retail Corporation, said his company would spend 20 million baht to spur demand for home products in the second half.

CRC recently launched the HomeWorks Super Mid-Year Sale, offering discounts of up to 70% discount, and a HomeWorks loyalty scheme which runs until August.

The company expects sales of 400 million baht from the promotional campaign.
--- KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 16 June 2006 :-

B10bn budget for Embassy site : Central preparing four-year plan

Central Retail Corporation expects to spend 10 billion baht to turn a nine-rai plot, recently purchased from the UK government, into a mixed-use commercial complex over the next four years.

Tiang Chirathivat Real Estate, an affiliate of the Central Group, last month won the bid for the prime site on Phloen Chit Road at an undisclosed price. Reports suggest that the deal was priced as high as one million baht per square wah.

Tos Chirathivat, chief executive of CRC, said the project would have a maximum usable space of 160,000 square metres, which could include a plaza, a hotel, a condominium or serviced apartments.

"Everything is possible now. We will choose to develop what is lacking in the area and what can be done to complement Central Chidlom, our flagship store located a short walk away," he said.

CRC will finalise a development theme by the end of the year, with design and construction to take another four years.

"Once Bangkok cannot expand anymore in the next 20 years, this area will be better established as the most important shopping street linking Sukhumvit, Phloen Chit, Ratchaprasong and Siam Square, as has happened in New York, Paris and Singapore," Mr Tos said.

He said CRC would continue to expand its retail outlets in Thailand and overseas, and planned to open 500 new Tops Daily stores, a new format of Tops Supermarket, over the next five years.

Tops Daily is a combination of a convenience store and supermarket similar to Tesco Lotus Express. Each outlet will require an investment of three million baht for 300 square metres of space.

Mr Tos said three Tops Daily outlets had already been opened in Chiang Mai, Ang Thong and Chiang Rai, to test the market. Another one will open in Bangkok soon.

"We're interested in this retail segment because it has a lot of potential to grow. It's a new retail sector which many players are gearing up to," he said.

However, Tops Daily is different from Tesco Express as it will have a wider selection of products and place a greater importance on dried food over fresh food.

Yesterday, CRC announced it had spent 300 million baht introducing the 1 Card, its membership reward-points programme, aiming to boost retail sales in its network by 12-15% this year.

The launch of the new points programme was a joint effort between six business units of CRC _ Central and Robinson department stores, PowerBuy, SuperSports, B2S and HomeWorks.

Card members are entitled to one point for every 25 baht spent at most of the 230 outlets of the six retailers, except PowerBuy where customers gain a point for every 50 baht spent.

Allan Namchaisiri, senior vice-president for marketing of CRC, said the company, with 120 management staff from the six business units, had spent two years working on the 1 Card programme.

"The 1 Card scheme is a very special offering for loyal shoppers. We hope to have up to 2.8 million card holders in one year and six million in five years after the launch. The target sales via cards will reach 17 billion baht," he said.

Mr Tos said Tops would join the 1 Card scheme by the end of the year.

"This member reward scheme will help us better collect a database of shoppers. If it is really efficient, mass marketing activities will not be necessary anymore," he said.

Yuwadee Bhicharnchitr, president of Central Department Store, said the new programme would help boost sales at all stores, where sales growth has been below initial projections due mainly to political and economic uncertainties.
---KatoeyNewsNetwork

[KatoeyLover69]

Report from Bangkok Post dated Friday 16 June 2006 :-

Central launches new loyalty card : Retailer expects 2.8m customers, Bt17 bn in sales

Central Retail Corp (CRC), Thailand's largest retail conglomerate, announ-ced yesterday the launch of its biggest-ever loyalty-card programme.

With an investment of Bt300 million, The 1 Card will become the most significant tool in retaining shoppers at the group's 230 branches of its six different retail companies: Central, Robinson, PowerBuy, SuperSports, B2S and Home Works.

The card was launched after two years of research and planning by 120 staff.

Senior vice president and head of marketing Allan Namchaisiri said CRC expected at least 2.8 million members with an estimated Bt17 billion in sales from the card in the first year. He predicted that more than 60 per cent of the cardholders would be active.

"We expect to have more than 6 million cardholders in the next five years," said Allan.

More than 1,000 strategic partners and suppliers are participating in the programme, and the card's official launch will be held next Tuesday at all branches of all stores.

Allan said it was the first card to receive total cooperation from all six of CRC's retail companies, and it would generate one of the largest customer databases in the retail industry.

A total of Bt130 million will be spent on marketing and promotions in the first six months.

"We believe the strength of The 1 Card will provide extra benefit to the existing cards and promotions in our stores," said Allan.

The card's accumulative points can be redeemed for gifts and services, including a cash coupon for purchasing millions of items on shelves at every branch. This will free shoppers from the limitation of gift redemption from catalogues.

Other benefits include discounts of up to 50 per cent, promotions, privileges, newsletters, exclusive activities during Central Card Preview Day and surprise gifts.

The card can be used in conjunction with any credit-cards brand, not only Central Cards. It will be available in six different designs relating to each affiliated company.

The card will also enable CRC and its business partners to understand their customers and analyse buying behaviour.

Vice president for marketing and customer relations Muenfun Ohyingcharoen said the card-loyalty programme would be the largest in Southeast Asia and target teenagers to senior citizens.
---KatoeyNewsNetwork

[astrid]

Hmm... Nice thread for explaining the Shopping Centres in Bangkok, Thailand :) Thanks for share your thoughts....

[KatoeyLover69]

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/sunday/Siam-Discovery-gets-naked-30286899.html