SET-listed Central Retail Corporation (CRC) has unveiled a revamped Central Khon Kaen following a mega-transformation focused on highlighting the Isan identity.
The renovation took place after CRC transformed Robinson Khon Kaen, which opened in 2009, into Central Khon Kaen. The concept of this newly revamped department store centres around the theme of "The New Shopping Playground of Isan".
Olivier Bron, chief executive of Central and Robinson Department Store, said the design resonates with the clients' lifestyles.
"The department store covers an area of 15,508 square metres and is decorated using natural materials and locally sourced products to support local communities and generate income to the locals, such as Ban Din Sai On's textiles, Mudmee silk, and cotton and other materials like patterned fabrics, braided ropes, woven rattan and bamboo structures," he said.
"We are also inspired by the colourfulness of local textiles and have translated this into the mood of the mall," he said.
"The highlight is the central hall on the 1st floor, which features a bamboo pavilion and Khon Kaen's signature tree, the golden shower tree, measuring 4x4 metres in size. The tree stands proud at the centre of the mall, creating a unique landmark that perfectly captures the province's uniqueness."
He added that Central Khon Kaen is the 25th Central department store and the third in the northeast of the country.
Operating department stores in this location is strategic as Khon Kaen is home to rich diversity and is an education hub. There are several tourist and cultural destinations. It is also a medical hub and a logistics hub, and in the future there will be a high-speed train system that connects the province with other parts of Thailand.
"It is on track to becoming a Mice [meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions] destination within three years, and there will be more visitors coming to Khon Kaen. Recognising the province's potential, we want to expand the retail business and tourism, and this can be further expanded to neighbouring countries in the future," Mr Bron added.