Major retailers and suppliers have agreed to the government's proposal for a nationwide seven-day sale over the Christmas-New Year period, with big price reductions promised.
Commerce Minister Chatchai Sarikulya said on Friday that 36 retailers and wholesale suppliers had agreed to to cut prices at 12,763 outlets across the country in a seven-day campaign, from Dec 24 to 30.
Lists of goods and details of price reductions were still being discussed. A logo for the campaign will be made public on Dec 17, said Gen Chatchai.
‘’The campaign is aimed at 'returning happiness' to people during New Year in line with the government’s policy. Price cuts for goods will be a big surprise,’’ said the commerce minister.
He asked people to cooperate and not to hoard goods. The ministry also plans other measures to ease the cost of living, such as reductions of registration fees at its agencies.
Major traders that will take part are Tesco Lotus, Makro, Big C Supercenter, Central, Robinson, The Mall, Tang Hua Seng Superstore, Tops Supermarket, Foodland, MaxValu, CJ Mart, 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson 108 and CP Freshmart.
Vathit Chokwatana, vice-president of Saha Pathanapibul Plc, one of the largest producers of consumer goods, said his companywould also cooperate with the government and reduce prices for its products.
Chatchai Tuongratanaphan, executive director of the Thai Retailers Association, said the ministry had discussed the campaign with representatives of suppliers 3-4 weeks ago. He said it was intended to lift consumer spending by lowering prices.