The very first new store concept in Southeast Asia and India
This August, Swarovski brings on its fabulous new store concept to Thailand with the launch of Thailand’s premier New Retail Landscape at Siam Paragon, 1st floor.
For over a year, Swarovski has been on a spellbinding journey with the reimagining of the brand and retail stores. Commencing with the rollout of 27 Instant Wonder stores around the globe, the magical transformation has culminated in the opening of the first fabulous new stores in key corners of the world in 2021, with more to follow in 2022.
“Our New Retail Landscape is an incredible ode to creativity, and the result of Swarovski’s strong new vision, a realm where science and magic meet. Playful, aware, and always boldly chic our aim is to reflect desires and dreams in the physical space of our stores and to underline our new age of crystal living,” says Giovanna Engelbert, Creative Director at Swarovski.
Welcome to a New Retail Landscape
Designed to ignite imaginations, each entrancing store pays homage to the shimmering beauty of crystal, reflecting the uniquely captivating charm of the city itself. Mesmerizing metallic finishes and fluted glass combine with chrome and silk touches throughout.
For Thailand, Swarovski has opened a 107.9-square-meter New Retail Landscape in Siam Paragon, located in the heart of the shopping district in Bangkok. The store design immerses customers in the brand’s new visual identity with a sensorial retail space decorated in cool blues. Octagonal product displays, metallic sculptures, and luxurious textures come together to inspire a journey of exploration and self-expression. Swarovski’s New Retail Landscape in Bangkok opened on August 1.
To reflect the brand’s new visual identity, overseen by the beloved Swarovski Swan, guests will be welcomed into a sensorial retail space to discover an array of tempting and tantalizing crystal treasures.
Encouraging exploration and self-expression, different areas in the stores are color-blocked in Swarovski’s signature new brand hues. With myriad octagons adorning the walls in a breathtaking display of product and pattern, the entire concept is a tribute to the wonder of crystal itself.
For the final flourish, packages wrapped up with signature gross-grain silks and velvets add to the entire spellbinding experience.
An absolute feast for the senses, our sumptuous New Retail Landscapes beckon you in, promising a world filled with magic and special moments.
A collaboration that marks a new retail and property milestone to create a ‘one-of-a-kind retail experience’ in Silom
Bangkok, August 4, 2022 — NYE & RGP Development Co., Ltd., a collaboration between NYE Estate Co., Ltd., and Minor International PCL, inks a strategic deal with Siam Piwat Co., Ltd. for a retail asset management and property management for “Park Silom”, a premium mixed-use project in the heart of Silom under the theme “New Breed of Silom.”
The retail space spans over five-storeys of the total 39-storey mixed used project that recently won prestige international awards. The retail concept is envisioned to be a ‘one-of-a-kind retail experience,’ that caters to lifestyles of office occupants along with Thai and international tourists with high purchasing power The collaboration between the three property and retail industry leaders, all with extensive experience in managing world-class and high-profile projects, will establish “Park Silom” as a new landmark in Silom – the prospering economic neighborhood, by introducing a new lifestyle that responds to the multi-dimensional ways of living.
Ms Ornruedi Na-Ranong, Chief Executive Officer of NYE Estate Co., Ltd, said “NYE & RGP Development, which is a joint force between NYE Estate and Minor international PCL, has developed Park Silom as a premium mixed-use office building and a retail space covering an area of six rai and 39-storeys right at the center of Silom, based on a theme “New Breed of Silom.” The project is designed to offer an integrated lifestyle experience for locals and people working and living around Silom. We have signed the MOU with Siam Piwat in a collaboration for retail asset management and property management, with the ultimate goal to fulfill the lifestyle of the new generations at Park Silom and its neighborhood, and for Silom people to be able to live a balanced life where work, shopping and after-work socializing perfectly integrated in a different and distinctive way.”
“This collaboration with Siam Piwat, highly recognized as “The Visionary ICON”, will further enhance Park Silom’s credentials among retailers, thanks to Siam Piwat’s in-depth experience in property development which features numerous world-class projects that have earned many international awards and recognition. The proven success will create a new dimension to the intermix of Park Silom’s office building and retail space – to offer new experiences that caters to multi-faceted work life and lifestyle of the building’s occupants which are mostly leading companies and international organizations, for “Park Silom” to become a new landmark of Silom,” said Ms Ornruedi.
Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, added “We are delighted to collaborate with the two prominent property and retail developers to develop an iconic “Park Silom” project. Minor International has long experience in building and operating hotels, restaurants and mixed-use businesses globally. We are confident that we can employ our expertise in hospitality and retail, as well as key corporate support functions to contribute to this supreme quality business and lifestyle hub in Bangkok’s financial heart”.
Chollachat Meksupha, Senior Executive Vice President of Business Development and Real Estate of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., the leading property and retail developer – the owner and operator of prestigious retail destinations including Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery and a joint venture partner of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok said, “Siam Piwat is delighted to develop ‘Park Silom’, set to become a new landmark of the Silom area which will play a very important role in reviving Silom as a prime Central Business District (CBD). For the past 63 years, Siam Piwat has been ‘The Visionary ICON’ that excels in developing and managing world-class property and retail projects as well as global All of which have been pioneering milestones, new concepts that deliver the ultimate experience and delights for visitors. In this partnership, Siam Piwat will fortify retail asset management and property management for Park Silom, to achieve the fulfilling experience of an integrated urban work life and lifestyle.
“Our partnership is formed at the right time, as Silom is a prime location and the center that welcomes numerous leading organizations such as financial institutions, large corporate enterprises and multinational corporations. Hence, the Silom area welcomes many high purchasing power shoppers. At the same time, this business district also features retail brands and spaces to serve the lifestyles of the new generation who seek harmonious work-life balance. The area also offers shopping and hang out spots for office workers as well as local and international tourists which have been increasing in numbers following the country’s reopening.
“We are confident that, Siam Piwat’s successful credentials as a developer of ‘World Class Destinations,’ together with our extensive knowledge, experience and expertise in multi-faceted areas including real estate development, retail business, shopping centers, food and beverages, marketing communications as well as the retail asset management and property management will ensure this collaboration is successful. It will also mark another retail breakthrough by creating a ‘one-of-a-kind retail experience’ that is unique and outstanding in the Silom area,” concluded Mr Chollachat.
Aboout ‘Park Silom’ Project
‘Park Silom’ is an outstanding project located in a prime area interconnected with public transportation, access both the BTS and the MRT. It is founded with a commitment and the intention to serve the new generation and to present only the best, with the aim to elevate the life of the Silom neighborhood. The building has been awarded Best Office Development Asia Pacific from the International Property Awards (IPA) and it also values the quality of life of its occupants. Friendly to the environment and the community, the building is designed and constructed according to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Building Wellness Standard (WELL), to uplift the wellness of its occupants. In addition, it prioritizes green space with a dedicated spatial Sky Garden to be a “new breath in the heart of Silom”, plus a one-rai green area in front of the building is dedicated as a recreational area which helps contribute fresh air for Silom road and the those living in the surrounding area.
Strong increase in the first half of the year: Porsche AG significantly increased its sales revenue and operating profit in the first six months of 2022 – to 17.92 billion euros and 3.48 billion euros respectively.
The return on sales in the first half of 2022 rose to 19.4 per cent from 16.9 per cent in the previous-year period. In the first six months of 2021, sales revenue was 16.53 billion euros and operating profit was 2.79 billion euros.
This represents a growth of 8.5 per cent in revenue and 24.6 per cent in operating profit. The Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer has therefore once again underscored its ability to operate successfully in a challenging environment.
At the same time, Porsche is pushing ahead with its strategy for a sustainable future and redefining the concept of modern luxury.
“We are proud to have made significant gains in sales revenue and earnings in this difficult market environment. It’s been a real team effort by the workforce and management,” says Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board and Member of the Executive Board for Finance and IT at Porsche AG. From January to June, Porsche delivered 145,860 vehicles to customers (same period last year: 153,656). The increase in return on sales to 19.4 per cent in the first half of the year was mainly driven by a strong product mix, currency effects and other business sectors.
In view of the H1 2022 performance, Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, is optimistic about the future: “Porsche stands for sporty, modern luxury. With this, we see ourselves as well positioned in the sweet spot of the automotive industry.” Expert studies forecast growth in luxury sports cars, fully electric vehicles and luxury SUVs in years to come. “We believe Porsche is very well positioned in each of these areas,” says Blume. “We believe we are ahead of other luxury automotive manufacturers with our strong focus on sustainability. We take a holistic view of sustainability: ecological, social and value-based. Our ambition is to be net carbon neutral in 2030.”
Automotive net cash flow in the first half of 2022 was 2.39 billion euros (previous year:2.60 billion euros). “Despite continued robust investment in our future projects, we were again able to generate strong automotive net cash flow”, adds CFO Lutz Meschke. “We believe our cash flow focus is paying off here.” Despite an ongoing difficult supply situation and elevated raw material and energy prices, Porsche AG is aiming for return on sales between approximately 17 and 18 per cent for the year 2022, with sales revenue of between approximately 38 and 39 billion euros. Over the medium term, Porsche has a return on sales target of between approximately 17 and 19 per cent.
The outlook for 2022 is based on certain assumptions, including no significant deterioration of economic conditions or the COVID-19 pandemic in Porsche’s main markets, no significant disruptions in the supply chain, especially relating to semiconductors, energy and materials parts and components, no material price increases of raw materials and no further escalation of the war in Ukraine, amongst others. Porsche has the long-term ambition to achieve Group return on sales of more than 20 per cent: “The global economy is facing challenging times, but the current figures for the first half of 2022 give us confidence in our resilience”, says CFO Lutz Meschke.
SEEK, the parent company of leading jobs platforms JobStreet and JobsDB, strengthens its commitment to help stamp out unfair hiring practices and put an end to modern slavery across the region with the appointment of Scott Stiles as the company’s Special Advisor of Fair Hiring in Asia.
The Global Slavery Index estimates that there are six modern slavery victims for every 1,000 people in the Asian countries where SEEK operates in — Indonesia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
This is equivalent to 2.9 million men, women, and children living in modern slavery in the region .
Peter Bithos, CEO of Asia, SEEK, shared, “As an organization that aims to improve millions of lives through better careers, we have a responsibility to ensure our marketplace is a safe, digital environment for job seekers across the region, and we take this seriously. We are committed to providing trusted and valid platforms for workers to find decent jobs and for employers to hire ethically, safeguarding against the risk of modern slavery in advertising job opportunities that could be deceptive in recruiting for forced labour. We’ve been conducting an APAC-wide search to find an executive who can be fully dedicated to this issue and spearhead our efforts for some time. Bringing Scott into our team is only the beginning of our continuous, long-term effort to help end pockets of slavery in the region.”
Peter Bithos, CEO of Asia, SEEK
In his role, Scott will be responsible for identifying risks and vulnerabilities in SEEK’s processes and platforms that could be exploited by unscrupulous actors, and work with the relevant teams to address them.
He will champion initiatives that can help provide job seekers with clarity and awareness of their rights and warnings about known unfair hiring practices, particularly affecting migrant, manual, and domestic workers so that candidate interactions with SEEK’s employment platforms result in safe and fair employment outcomes.
Scott will also be accountable for leading broader initiatives with partners and governments across the region to promote fair-hiring practices with the long-term aspiration to end modern slavery in all its forms.
Scott will report to Michele Manigart, Chief Strategy Officer of Asia.
Commenting on his appointment, Michele said, “We are delighted to welcome Scott to SEEK, and we believe he will be instrumental in advancing our commitment to fair hiring in Asia. SEEK will not only benefit from his experience and deep understanding of the region’s labour rights and issues, but also from his clear passion for human rights and strong desire to make real impact in this area.”
Scott said, “I have always believed that forced labour and unfair hiring are solvable world problems. The progress we have seen in the last nine years has shown this to be true, but these are deeply ingrained issues that require regionwide market intervention over a sustained period of time. SEEK’s platforms make us uniquely well positioned to drive this change. I couldn’t be more excited to work with Michele, Peter, and the team to guide this effort!”
Aiming to support and strengthen fair hiring in Thailand, Duangporn Promon, Managing Director of Jobs DB Recruitment (Thailand) Limited, said, “The appointment of Seek Asia’s Special Advisor of Fair Hiring strengthens the company’s commitment in doing business in a way that respects job seekers’ rights. In Thailand, we constantly raise awareness in the job platform industry. JobsDB communicated and educated entrepreneurs about equal employment opportunities in the previous year. As a result, some entrepreneurs understand and begin to adjust the recruitment policy to collaborate in looking beyond social discrimination and providing potential job seekers with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities. This year, the emphasis is on the job seeker’s Fundamental Rights, which the employer should respect. Fair labour practices under human rights principles outlined in Labor Law, and compensation and benefits are also included. We believe that fair hiring is a success factor that increases the value of the business and improves its competitiveness, resulting in sustainable business growth.”
Duangporn Promon, Managing Director of Jobs DB Recruitment (Thailand) Limited
JSCCIB has appointed WRS Group to upgrade APEC Business Travel Card, which will provide world-class privileges and benefits to travellers.
Today, Jakkapan Rattanapet, Founder and CEO of WRS Group, joins the MOU ceremony with JSCCIB’s representatives,Payong Srivanich, the President of JSCCIB and the President of Thai Bankers’ Association, Sanan Aungubonkul, the President of The Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand, and Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the President of The Federation of Thai Industries, for the appointment of WRS Group to solely manage the premium privileges and benefits for APEC Business Travel Card holders.
This initiative is set to increase the business competitiveness among businesses in Thailand and expand the network and collaboration with public sectors and other units to gear towards a more robust economy in Thailand.
The ceremony is witnessed by presses and distinguished guests at Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok.
Jakkapan Rattanapet, CEO of WRS Group, revealed that WRS Group is genuinely honoured and glad to be appointed by JSCCIB as Thailand’s leading luxury lifestyle services provider and privileges sourcing and managing company for more than 15 years.
WRS Group has four businesses under its wings: World Reward Solution, a world-class privilege sourcing and composing services for corporations.
Next, WRX, an online platform development services, applications and technologies, and White Glove Delivery and Services, premium lands logistic services such as global and domestic limousine services and premium gift delivery services.
And lastly, Silver Voyage Club is a concierge and luxury lifestyle services management for affluent clients.
WRS Group has well-rounded experiences in taking care of High-net-worth individuals and corporations in Thailand and Asia.
“WRS Group is ready and on its full capacity to bring its expertise and technology to develop and connect alliances nationally and internationally to provide seamless convenience in terms of travel and lifestyle to business travellers in this year in which Thailand hosts the Apec 2022. We realize the goal to develop and revive the travel and tourism sector, and we are confident that we, together, can very well take care of business travellers who hold the APEC Business Travel card, which also contains a “Business Visa” for smooth travelling. This initiative will definitely and wholely create a great impression towards Thailand.” Said Jakkapan Rattanapet.
Payong Srivanich, the President of JSCCIB and the President of the Thai Bankers’ Association, mentioned that WRS Group was selected since it has a long-term speciality in luxury lifestyle services and premium privileges management.
Therefore, we can rest assured that the APEC Business Travel Card holders will enjoy most of the privileges apart from travelling smoothly since the card includes a “Business Visa” that allows holders to travel between 19 Apec economies easily.
The 19 Apec economies include Australia, Brunei, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, Mexico and Russia. In addition, the holders will be privileged to prioritised through the ‘Apec Lane’ at the immigration of participated international airports.
Sanan Aungubonkul, the President of The Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand, said that this moment is crucial to collaborate and revive the Thai economy together.
Therefore, having an expert and well-experienced company such as WRS Group to take care of premium privileges and benefits for APEC Business Travel Card holders will help reassure worldwide business travellers to travel to Thailand, especially this year when Thailand hosts the Apec 2022.
“We need to select the best for Thailand to promote what we can offer to global citizens,” said Sanan Aungubonkul.
Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the President of The Federation of Thai Industries, mentioned that “as a representative of Thai industries, I work closely with both the private sector and government for both nationally and internationally matters. I also need to take care of improvement and strategies to support the development of industries and the country’s overall economy. I am delighted that WRS Group helps us to put all their efforts into handling premium privileges and benefits for all APEC Business Travel Card holders as this will also help to enhance our country’s image to the world”.
For this occasion, WRS Group has joined hands with seven business alliances domestically and internationally to create world-class premium privileges and benefits for APEC Business Travel Card holders as follows:
1. BDMS Hospital Network is one of the most reputable hospital networks in Asia-Pacific. Currently managed 49 world-class accredited hospitals, providing medical services for approximately 2 million international patients yearly.
With its latest medical technology and more than 12,000 medical experts who graduated from leading medical schools, the group is ready to provide healthcare, wellbeing privileges and services, and international medical transfers to cardholders.
2. The Coral Executive Lounge is a world-class airport lounge.
Currently, there are 16 lounges around the world, with seven lounges in main Thailand airports (Phuket, Hat Yai, Don Muang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Udonthani, and Suvarnbhumi). This company holds the highest number of airport lounges and is continuing to expand its lounges to other airports in Asia-Pacific.
3. Dusit Thani Hotels and Resorts Group has more than 300 hotels and resorts worldwide.
The group will provide special privileges to the APEC Business Travel Card holders such as room upgrades and other benefits for memorable stays.
4. High Flyer Asia, the new generation business network in Asia, offers exclusive events and business networking in Thailand and regionally through more than 20 new generation and growing businesses around Asia. 5. Minor Hotel Group owns more than 520 hotels.
It has more than 75,000 rooms under the brand Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli, Elewana, NH Collection, NH, Now, Marriott, Four Seasons, St. Regis, Radisson Blu, and Minor International Hotel Group. Minor Hotels and spas cover 56 countries around Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Africa, Indian Ocean, Europe and America.
Minor Hotel Group will also offer special privileges and benefits to the card holders.
6. Siam Piwat Company Limited, a leading retail and real estate developer who owns and operates Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery, and one of the joint owners of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, Thailand’s famous world-class shopping destinations and the centre of retail businesses in Thailand.
They offer exquisite and divine experiences in all aspects to inspire and endlessly give life value to people.
By offering privileges with no boundary only within the shopping malls, they go beyond for the most unique and incredible experiences for Thai and international cardholders.
7. Silver Voyage Club is a one-stop concierge and luxury lifestyle services management brand for travellers who travel domestically and internationally.
All details of the new version of the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) with the best world-class privileges throughout the membership life, information on membership tiers and all privileges will be revealed in Apec CEO Summit 2022, November 16th-19th, 2022.
Mercedes-Benz introduces Online Showroom full-scale e-commerce platform through its website, offering new channel for customers to easily book & buy cars in just a few clicks
Mercedes-Benz officially introduces e-commerce platform through its website at mercedes-benz.co.th allowing customers to reserve and make a purchase all Mercedes-Benz models by themselves within a few clicks.
Customers can also choose to be in contact with any of Mercedes-Benz showrooms and service centres, marking a new era for Mercedes-Benz in offering a seamless Mercedes-Benz online-to-offline experience to customers across the country.
Roland Folger, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Limited, said “Mercedes-Benz has continuously studied and observed Thai consumers’ behaviour. We have found that digital platforms both in terms of websites and social media have become more and more important for consumers today, especially during the past few years as we face the COVID-19 situation. Digital platforms provide them with a way to easily access brands and products. And on the other hand, it is also a way for brands to reach and get closer to consumers. With cars, although consumers may need to have a test drive or at least experiencing the actual products before making decision to buy, it is not an obstacle for a digital platform to provide all information they would need about a car and offer them the opportunity to reserve or buy a car online. With the launch of our e-commerce platform as a new channel to generate growth in terms of sales, Mercedes-Benz is committed to providing a seamless online-to-offline experience to consumers while strengthening our brand presence in Thailand.”
Mercedes-Benz is set to offer a digital car booking and buying experience that is seamlessly connected to Mercedes-Benz’s authorized dealers at its website at www.mercedes-benz.co.th. Customers can start booking Mercedes-Benz cars from the home page by clicking on “Buy” at the top left. Then, you can select the desired topic such as “Buy through Online Showroom”, “Promotions”, “Book a test drive”, “Price lists & brochures”, “Collections & Merchandise” etc.
When you click on “Buy through Online Showroom”, the website will take you to explore available vehicles where you can choose the model or body type you want. Then, you can choose your preferred dealer by using the website’s filter which will result in the preferred model and dealer. The cars that appear on this page are those that are currently in stock. Mercedes-Benz will keep customers updated about the estimated delivery time and will notify them when the car is ready to be delivered later on.
Next step, you can also choose to click “Request for Quote”, where the website will ask for your details to contact you back or click “Proceed to payment ” to select payment options and learn more about instalment calculation. Once you decide on your preferred payment option, you can make a payment to reserve your desired car right away.
More details about this newly launched e-commerce platform can be found at www.mercedes-benz.co.th. You can also learn more information about any of the Mercedes-Benz models at Mercedes-Benz’s authorized dealers nationwide.
About eight in 10 Thai consumers have experienced mental health issues in the past six months, with stress (46%), insomnia (32%) and anxiety (28%)* among the top three conditions, according to new research by global market intelligence firm Mintel.
Thais’ mental state has been exacerbated by the prolonged effects of COVID-19, which contribute to feelings of frustration and helplessness. Furthermore, the research finds that consumers at different life stages and genders face different mental health challenges.
Gen Z is the loneliest generation
Work/study (48%) particularly affected Gen-Z consumers aged 18-24, who are found to be the loneliest (38%) compared to other generations** like Older Millennials (26%) and Gen X (15%). Peer pressure (33%) and social media (25%) are among the factors that contribute to their mental health challenges.
“Over one-third of young Thai consumers say they lack self-confidence according to our research. The portrayals of a ‘perfect’ life on social media, seeing their role models, influencers or acquaintances possess things they do not have, and the pressure to live up to other peoples’ standards can lead to mental conditions like low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. Brands can support this younger population through campaigns that encourage positive self-satisfaction,” said Wilasinee (Kaimook) Siriboonpipattana, Senior Lifestyle Research Analyst, Mintel Reports Thailand.
Women are more stressed than men
Nearly one-third (31%) of Thai women aged 18-34 say they are burnt out compared to 17% of men of the same age group. Women attribute work/study, uncertainty in future planning and financial situation/responsibilities to be among the top factors that impact their mental health.
“Women aged 18-34 are likely to juggle household responsibilities, job stability, and their marriage. As noted in our new research on lifestyles of women, they want to stay balanced and healthy, both mentally and physically. Brands can target this group — particularly those with busy lifestyles — by offering products and services that reduce mental health stressors and help them commit to healthy activities,” continued Kaimook.
Sleep deprivation affects all generations
Mintel’s research reveals that sleep affects Thais regardless of age, which can be linked to stressful life events. Across generations, about 35% of Gen Z and Millennials have experienced insomnia compared to 28% of Gen X.
In contrast to popular belief, insomnia affects people of all ages, not just the elderly. For instance, stay-at-home measures have blurred personal and professional life/study boundaries, leading to more stress and sleeplessness. Given that Thais struggle to sleep, brands can leverage new technologies to offer products or services that can detect sleep patterns and offer other health benefits.
Consumers look to brands to de-stigmatize mental health
Despite the increasing number of Thais experiencing mental health issues, consumers still lack access to mental health services and information.Over three-fourths (76%) of Thais agree that mental health should be discussed in public more often than before.
“Due to social constraints and stigma around mental health, we see high consumer expectations of brands in terms of mental health support. Considering its sensitive nature, brands need to show genuine empathy and understanding of consumers’ mental health journey.
Social media is growing in importance, with over three-fourths of consumers agreeing that it is a suitable channel for promoting mental products/services. As a result, brands that take a more active role in educating consumers, de-stigmatising mental health issues, and encouraging people to seek professional help will win over consumers,” Kaimook said.
Notes: *In the last six months prior to February 2022; 2,000 Thai internet users aged 18+ **Older Millennials aged 32-40; Gen X aged 41-56
Bangkok, August 1, 2022 – Bitkub Blockchain Technology, Bitkub Chain and Blockchain Total Solution Provider and Miss Universe Thailand, a beauty pageant with a history of 20 years, together revolutionize the digital experience on the final round’s stage for another year.
On October 7, 2021, MUT NFTs collection was officially announced under the cooperation between Bitkub Blockchain Technology and Miss Universe Thailand. The collection regard to Miss Universe Thailand 2021 pageant with a special value given to main collectors and fans. Miss Universe Thailand NFTs collection was developed by Bitkub Blockchain Technology under decentralized network protocol called “blockchain”. Collectors and fans can feel a sense of the value and a story along with getting closer to the beauty pageant. Moreover, not only MUT NFTs collection was minted but the MUT crown item was specially introduced in Morning Moon Village game as a special collection item.
With the 2nd year cooperation between Bitkub and Miss Universe Thailand, the special NFT collection was introduced and will be airdropped to the participants of Miss Universe Thailand 2022’s final round. In addition, the participants will also have a chance to create their own NFT via “Creator Studio” feature. To open the new experience of watching the contest, there are several reasons that the participants should not miss:
The first Rock Stage in history
Swimsuit and evening gown competition with special guests
The new stage design inspired by the idea of metaverse and constellation
A chance of getting close to all 30 beauty contestants in every dimension
Central Food Retail under Central Retail creates another phenomenon in Thailand’s retail industry with the launch of ‘Tops CLUB’, a megaproject in retail, piloting with a Rama II location in late September this year.
The company also reveals its 5-year strategy with four key areas, based on the CRC Retailligence strategy.
With investment of 18 billion baht, the company expects to triple its revenue and to expand its customer base by increasing its store presence to 1,700 locations, becoming the #1 Food Retailer in Thailand and Vietnam.
Stephane Coum, Chief Executive Officer – Food Group, Central Retail, said, “For the past 26 years, as the first supermarket in Thailand, we’ve always focused on offering the best experience and meeting the needs of our customers. We never stop improving and always seek new growth opportunities. We have expanded our business to cover all segments, and today we have many store formats nationwide, including Tops Market, Tops Food Hall, Tops Daily, Central Food Hall and FamilyMart. The variety of formats coupled with the assortment of products and services via omni-channel platforms, we are able to cater to every need of our customers anytime. Tops Market is a successful brand in Thailand, and the success is expanded further into Vietnam. To elevate our retail business as we embark on our third decade, and to grow steadily, strongly and sustainably, we have announced our 5-year strategy with four key areas to lead our food retail business towards our goal.
1. The leader of supermarket in all platforms, covering every segment
As a food retailer with the widest range of store formats to meet consumer needs, including supermarket, world-class food store, and convenience store, Tops is able to cater to every segment and every need. There are also new formats to ensure that Tops is a destination that fulfils every shopping need and caters to changing consumer lifestyles.
A new project that will be a phenomenon in the food retail industry is ‘Tops CLUB’, the first exclusive global household shopping experience with a membership model. It will be an empire of more than 3,500 products, of which 70% being imported goods and exclusive brands. The product categories include fresh ingredients, dry ingredients, snacks, home essentials, toys, camping supplies, and sport equipment. Only the best brands are selected to meet the needs of consumers with high purchasing power who seek quality. The first ‘Tops CLUB’ flagship store will officially launch in late September in Rama II.
2. The most complete omnichannel platforms for supermarket in Thailand with the concept of WHENEVER, WHEREVER
Tops is committed to becoming the leader of omnichannel platforms to offer choices to its customers. In addition to shopping at physical stores, there are many online channels to offer a seamless experience to customers, giving them a feeling of shopping at the stores. They can be assured of the quality, freshness, and variety when shopping via Tops Online which offers convenience in every step, from browsing and ordering to delivery, with a team to select the best products. Professional Pickers allow customers to personalize their orders and add their preferences.
3. Tops, the ‘One Stop Shopping’ destination, curates the largest selection of new food products from around the world
Known as a food destination that fulfils diverse needs, Tops reinforces leadership in the quality and freshness of its products with over 45,000 items to choose from. Tops is also backed by a dynamic team that is always exploring quality products sourced around the world across every food category, bringing the newest and most trending products to delight customers.
4. Driving business towards sustainability in Thailand and Vietnam
The company recognizes the importance of driving its business through the grassroots economy in the country by purchasing agricultural produce directly from farmers. Venues are offered to farmers to sell their produce to consumers at ‘JINGJAI FARMERS’ MARKET’. We also offer growth opportunities to SMEs nationwide through ‘Tops Tong Tin’ platform.
Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited or Central Retail is the leading multi-format, multi-category retailing platform in Thailand. It is also growing internationally, securing leadership status in Italy and becoming one of the leaders in Vietnam. It has a network of 3,440 sales counters (as of 31 March 2022) such as department store, convenience store, specialty store, supermarket, hypermarket, and retail plaza.
Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park) invites board gamers and enthusiasts to the award ceremony for the “Print & Play: Play and Learn Without Borders – Season 2” board game competition on the topic of “Book on Board: Transforming a Favorite Book into an Ideal Board Game.”
Contestants were encouraged to submit ideas for turning the content of their favourite books into an informative and entertaining board game in this competition.
Among the activities highlighted at the award ceremony are:
1. Print & Play Showcase – All ten participating teams will present their ideas and works. Attendees at the event will also be asked to vote for their favourite board game for the Popular Vote position.
2. Board Game Playground — Event attendees will be invited to play shortlisted board games and speak with Thai board game developers who will be on hand to provide an entertaining experience at the event.
3. Special Talk – Listen to a discussion on the topic “Board Games and Books on the Day of Changing Learning Environment.” Discuss changes and the arrival of board games, as well as books, that are becoming part of the learning culture.
On August 6-7, 2022, from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm, cheer on the contestants, vote for favourite ideas, and try playing board games. The Grand Prize and Popular Vote winners will be announced on August 7, 2022, at 2:00 pm at TK Park, 8th floor, CentralWorld Bangkok. More information can be found at www.tkpark.or.th or www.facebook.com/tkparkclub.
TK Park was first opened to the public on January 24, 2005, as a creative learning organization under the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (Public Organization), Office of the Prime Minister.
For the past 17 years, TK Park has welcomed more than 1,000,000 people, with more than 500,000 books and materials checked out annually.
TK Park also collaborates with local partners and expands its unique learning centers to 30 locations in 23 provinces, more than 300 community learning centres, 76 school libraries in every province, and 20 living libraries in army camps.
In the 17th year, TK Park is moving forward with its mission of building the future learning ecosystem by improving the availability of its services to meet the needs of young generations in the digital world, promoting good reading habits and lifelong learning.
Peter Bithos, CEO of Asia, SEEK
Duangporn Promon, Managing Director of Jobs DB Recruitment (Thailand) Limited
SootinClaimon.Com 