The energy giant PTT Plc will spend 5.45 billion baht to expand its retail business in the next five years.
Three billion baht will be used at home for relocation of petrol stations, upgrades of existing stations and new locations.
This will cover development of non-fuel businesses such as 7-Eleven convenience stores, Cafe Amazon outlets, restaurants and car care at existing stations.
"We have more than 300 Cafe Amazons waiting to be added, which will bring coffee shops at our stations to 1,000 nationwide from 888 now," said Saran Rangkasiri, the chief operating officer for PTT's downstream business.
The other 2.45 billion baht will be set aside to build petrol stations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, with the aim of having 300 running by the end of the five-year plan, up from 86 now.
The foreign investment budget was revised up last month from 1.7 billion baht in the former 2012-16 plan. Mr Saran said the plan includes an increase from 50 stations to 135 in the Philippines, from a single station to 60 in Myanmar, from 20 stations to 60 in Laos, and from 15 to 45 in Cambodia.
"The global economy is slowing down, but we're confident economic prospects remain strong in this region thanks to emerging markets," he said. "Also, the Asean Economic Community (AEC) will give a boost to the regional economy."
Under the AEC, land transport will play a key role in moving goods through the region, giving PTT's retail business a stepping stone for expansion, said Mr Saran.
Shares of PTT closed yesterday on the SET unchanged at 320 baht, in trade worth 700 million baht.