Private jet operator Mjets has formed an alliance with Thailand Privilege Card Co (TPC) to attract high-end foreigners and other big spenders who hold the state-promoted Elite Card.
Mr Apisit (left) with Mjets executive chairman Jaiyavat Navaraj.
On Wednesday, they clinched an agreement that allows them to expand their customer bases and create synergy for consumers who spend an average of 100,000 to 150,000 baht a day in Thailand.
The accord sees Mjets, an affiliate of Bangkok-based Minor Hotel Group, offering 5% discounts to Elite Card holders for the use of executive jet charters and related services.
TPC, wholly owned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, will allow Mjets customers to use its Privilege Lounge at Suvarnabhumi airport.
It is the first such pact for both companies and broadens TPC's network of business alliances to some 300 entities in the golf, spa and health-related sectors.
TPC is trying to boost its membership for the 11-year-old Elite Card initiated during the Thaksin Shinawatra government after a five-year lull caused by anti-Thaksin sentiment and massive losses.
Apisit Chuenchompoo, who became TPC president last October, said the Elite Card was here to stay after the National Council for Peace and Order gave it a positive review.
TPC has attracted more than 30 new Elite Card members this year and expects to increase the number to 100 by year-end.
Current membership is 2,570, aged 35-50, with 60% Asian. Costing 500,000 baht for a five-year membership, a major lure of the Elite Card is a five-year multiple entry visa with an extendable one-year length of stay per entry.