Thai retailer extending mini-supermarket reach

Tang Hua Seng Group (THS), a Thai operator of department stores, plans to increase the number of its mini-supermarkets from six to 30 within the next five years under a reinvestment plan.

Viroj Chunprathipthong, President of THS, said the company will open five new Get It mini-supermarkets next year and gradually increase to 30 by 2018. Each mini-supermarket will occupy an average space of 200 to 300 square meters and require an investment of about US$160,000 (THB 5 million).

Location considerations include gas stations, community malls, hospitals and universities; for example, there are already six branches at Susco petrol stations on Pin Klao and Ratchaphruek roads and on Phutthamontho Sai 4 in front of Image Community Mall. Funds for the investment will come from the firm's own cash flow and will focus on the Thon Buri district near the group’s head office. "Though the competition in Thailand's retail sector is very fierce, I believe that the worst, for us, has passed," Viroj said.