Call for tourism stimulus to boost supermarkets

While retail is facing significant pressures due to economic difficulties and a decline in foreign visitor numbers, the supermarket chain Big C believes that measures to boost tourism could boost the sector.

- KUAKUL MORNKUM

Thapanee Techajareonvikul, executive vice-chairman of Big C Supercenter Plc, said that while domestic purchasing power has stagnated along with a decline in tourist arrivals, the company continues to attract shoppers by positioning itself as a retailer focused on value-for-money products.

She said that government initiatives aimed at promoting Thailand as a tourism and healthcare hub are expected to draw more consumers to the company's retail businesses.

Yesterday the company opened a new branch at Phenix, a wholesale and retail food centre in Bangkok, to serve both foreign tourists and local consumers.