Central Group has announced new strategies to help businesses across sectors adapt to the new normal and cope with changes in the post-pandemic world.
Pichai Chirathivat, Central Group's executive director, unveiled a new plan under the name Central Life, which aims to accelerate the firm's support through assisting SMEs and partners to boost spending among Thai and international travellers through three integrated strategies -- reduce, rebuild and reinforce.
To help businesses and consumers cut down on their expenses, Central Group offers reduced rates to more than 15,000 tenants within a total area of more than 40,000 square metres nationwide.
The Hug Thais campaign by Central Pattana is also selling items at discounted prices to consumers, stimulating domestic spending by inviting Thais to eat, shop and spend money locally.
For necessities that are crucial to people's everyday needs, prices are locked in at affordable rates to help ease the financial burden.
Additional support is provided to the grassroots economy and SMEs, ensuring they have access to funds to keep their businesses afloat and expand if such opportunities arise.
Central Group offers platforms through which businesses and communities can distribute and sell their products such as Jing Jai Farmers' Market, Thai Watsadu and Baan & Beyond.
The strategy has generated over 840 million baht for 35,000 vendors from 1,450 communities. The firm also promotes financial liquidity by partnering with leading financial institutions and offering soft loans to partners and SMEs.
Meanwhile, consumer spending receives a boost via campaigns that aim to stimulate tourist spending such as the "Shopcation exclusive privileges" campaign in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand. This offers discounts at stores and hotels under the Central Group to travellers visiting Thailand under the Phuket sandbox and Samui Plus schemes.
Central Group has continued to provide support to startups and entrepreneurs. For example, the firm has partnered with e-commerce startup Macular in the hobby & lifestyle product section.
Central Group's omnichannel platforms – live streaming, chat and shop, drive-thru, and pick-up service – also let consumers browse products safely and conveniently online and in-store.
The company also offers payment options such as contactless payment, Central 'The1' card and Dolfin Wallet e-payment.