True Corporation, followed by Advanced Info Service (AIS) and PTT Plc, are Thailand's most admired companies in terms of corporate social responsibility (CSR), according to a list compiled by marketing firms Type 1 Lab Co and Marketbuzzz.
True was rated as the most admired CSR organisation in Thailand, based on the results of a survey of 9,600 people nationwide including Bangkok and its vicinity (24% of respondents) and in the provinces (76% of respondents).
The survey was conducted throughout 2020 and it was found that True Corporation had the highest score overall, making it the No.1 CSR company among Thais. Particularly during the third and fourth quarters, True was most admired for its CSR activities in support of Thai society and the Thai people. Overall, AIS and PTT were ranked No.2 and No.3, respectively, during the fourth quarter.
"Type 1 Lab cooperated with Marketbuzzz, a research and marketing agency, to conduct this research. There is no doubt about the results, which indicate changing trends, after the company conducted a continuous survey across the country," said Wudhi Tinnapong, senior director of Type 1 Lab.
"Research results generated by the survey aligned with CSR programmes that Thai companies have been carrying out and also reflected the importance of digital technology in supporting the new normal that emerged amid the pandemic. This included healthcare, Covid-19 prevention, remote working and learning, which all played a more significant role in Thailand, particularly during the pandemic."
Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group was ranked No.4 on the list, followed by Total Access Communication and Siam Cement Plc.
"The research shows Thai people are really becoming aware of CSR projects. Whether an organisation is socially responsible impacts upon how Thais feel towards that firm as well. Brands and companies in Thailand have been increasingly putting more effort and focus on operating their businesses in a way that demonstrates CSR in order to reflect their brand image," said Grant Bertoli, chief executive of Marketbuzzz.
"In addition, Thai people are more aware of the importance of social responsibility and seek products from organisations that care for and show interest in social or environmental issues across a wide scope," he said.