Magazine of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand Final Issue 1 2019
Contents Banking and finance
BCCT
Board of Directors 2019 CHAIRMAN CHRIS THATCHER Anglo-Thai Legal Co., Ltd. M: 081 803-7377 E: christhatcher1@Gmail.com VICE CHAIRS SIMON MATTHEWS ManpowerGroup Thailand T: 02 634-7273 E: matthews@manpower.th.com ANDREW MCBEAN PKF Holdings (Thailand) Limited T: 02 108-1591 Ext. 100 E: andrew.mcbean@pkf.com SARAH SMITH Jamie’s Italian T: 02 255-5222 or 09 2610-6725 E: sarah.smith@jamiesitalian.co.th DIRECTORS CALLIE BANGYEKAN GlaxoSmithKline (Thailand) Limited T: 02 245-5541 E: callie.x.bangyekan@gsk.com BILLY CHOMSAKORN British Airways Plc T: 001 80044 15906 E: billy.chomsakorn@ba.com GARETH DAVIES Fluxus (Thailand) Co., Ltd. T: 096 463-4704 E: gareth.davies@fluxus.io STEPHEN FROST Bangkok International Associates Ltd. T: 02 231-6201/6455 E: sfrost@bia.co.th
10 10 Landmark blockchain deal for Standard Chartered and PTT 12 Thai banks adapt to new Lao market regulations 13 Calls for Thai government to increase fiscal spending
COLIN HASTINGS The Bigchilli Co., Ltd. T: 02 6355085 E: editorbigchilli@gmail.com
21
NICK SMART Tesco Lotus (Ek-Chai Distribution System Co., Ltd.) E: nick.smart@tescolotusfs.com
HONORARY TREASURER
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
17
Standard Chartered makes major digital investment
General news 21 TAT gives backing to Global Summit of Women
CARL SMITH Triumph Motorcycles (Thailand) Limited T: 089 939-1539 E: Carl.Smith@triumph.co.uk
2
16 BoT cuts policy interest rate
19 Q3 results prompt HSBC review
SIMON LANDY Colliers International Thailand T: 02 656-7000 E: slandybkk@gmail.com
JONATHAN FRYER Mazars (Thailand) Ltd. T: 02 670-1100 ext 124 E: jonathan.fryer@mazars.co.th
14 Opportunities in Thailand for UK finance companies
18 Thailand’s banking system emains resilient
MARTIN HURLEY Lancaster Bangkok Tel. +66 (0) 2262 8000 E: martin.h@lancasterbangkok.com
PINYAPA SOMPHONG HLG (Thailand) Co., Ltd. T: 02 670-1848 E: psomphong@harveylawcorporation.com
14
Member articles
22
22 Why hire an event planner?
Sukhumvit-Rama 9
An Inspirational Education Where Experience Matters HOLISTIC CURRICULUM
PLAY BASED
CHILD LED
BOOK YOUR VISIT TODAY
PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS
A LEARNING JOURNEY
Now accepting applications for August 2020. Call our Admissions Team on +66 2 203 1222 or email admissions-city@shrewsbury.ac.th www.shrewsbury.ac.th/city
Register today at Bit.ly/2LCYD95
Exceptional People • Outstanding Opportunities • Academic Excellence
Contents Final Issue | 2019 The Link is published by the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand. Advertising enquiries: Greg Watkins Email: greg@bccthai.com Jina Phenix Email: Jintana@bccthai.com Editor: Dale Lawrence Email: dalelawrence2008@gmail.com Front cover design: Lexicon Business Communications Production: Scand-Media Corp., Ltd The views expressed by individual authors are not necessarily those of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand or of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand is strictly prohibited.
Member news 24 Real estate investmentset for bumper year
37 Understanding human migration at KIS
33 New look for Dusit Suites Bangkok
38 Elevating lift designs to new heights
35 Tesco Lotus secures renewable energy deal
40 Thai business leaders upbeat on growth forecasts
Chamber Events 47 King Power Thailand International Business Awards 48 BCCT Annual Christmas Lunch
waiting for high res image
Comings and Goings 53 BCCT welcomes new members British Chamber of Commerce Thailand 7th Floor, 208 Wireless Road Bangkok 10330, Thailand Tel: 02-651 5350/3 Fax: 02-651 5354 Website: www.bccthai.com Email: greg@bccthai.com Greg Watkins, Executive Director
4
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Final Word 74 Ghost tour gremlins
50 BCCT/AMCHAM/AustCham Presentation (Trade Competition Act)
Chairman’s Message
I
wish you all a very Happy New Year, and welcome you to the third decade of the 21st century. There are some who argue that January 1st 2021 is actually the start of the decade - but if it’s good enough for the Queen it’s good enough for BCCT.
CHRIS THATCHER Sterling Partner
Welcome to the last Chairman’s message in The LINK. As Greg points out elsewhere, technological progress is something the BCCT must continue to embrace and, as a result, The LINK (in this format at least) ceases with this issue. If you think back to the start of the last decade, we were publishing The Brief in print form and distributing it to members every couple of months. Sometimes progress is hard to see until you take a long view and 10 years certainly shows developments better than looking year by year. I predict that, by 2030, the way that the BCCT does many things will be very different than it is now. I doubt whether AI will be running the Chamber – but you never know.
Sustaining Partners
At the AGM in January, two stalwarts of the BCCT Board will be stepping down. Simon Matthews and Simon Landy, both past Chairs, have decided that it is time for them to step back and let others take over. Both will be missed and we owe them our thanks for all the work that they have done. I am sure that neither of them will disappear. On the subject of the AGM (January 30th 11 am at the Shangri-La), have you considered whether or not to stand for the Board? It does need some commitment but that is manageable for most people. If you want to know more, please get in touch with one of our team at BCCT HQ. Finally, let me finish by sending our heartfelt sympathy to AustCham and all Australians. The fires that are devastating parts of the country are truly horrendous. The loss of life, the longer-term impact and the continuing efforts to control them impact us all in the long run. Global warming and climate change suggest that many other such events are on the way. If you want to consider making a donation, use the link https://austchamthailandadvance.com/2020/01/07/donations-foraustralian-bushfire-appeal/ and use the options there. BCCT will be holding a collection for this very worthy cause at the January T3+1 networking event.
6
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Executive Director’s Message
I
n this last Executive Director’s message in The LINK magazine – more later – I would like to wish all members and other LINK readers a very happy and prosperous 2020.
GREG WATKINS
Supporting Partners
At last the UK has clarity in its political future. Hopefully this will lead to clarity in Her Majesty’s Government’s trade promotion policy and the resources, both human and financial, to at last exploit the many opportunities for British companies outside Europe and North America. Germany has double the UK’s share of Thailand’s imports. There are opportunities here that companies from other countries are taking. Two years ago, research was published in Business Insider magazine that predicted the world’s largest economies in 2050 by extrapolating economic date on a purchasing power parity basis. In 2017, only one economy (Indonesia) in south east Asia is in the top 25 largest economies. By 2050 there will be five south east Asian economies in the top 25 - including Thailand. Brexit brings opportunities and challenges. Surely those companies that more readily seek business in Thailand, the rest of south east Asia and the wider Asia Pacific region, are most likely to succeed post-Brexit. BCCT membership registered a small increase in numbers in 2019. This was due largely to a healthy increase in the number of member companies in the UK, now at about 80 of 600 member companies in total. Membership elsewhere overseas and upcountry in Thailand continues to hold up well but Bangkok membership is showing a slow decline. We will be addressing this much more actively in 2020 with much closer engagement with existing members and an aggressive member recruitment drive. The BCCT team has already sent 2020 membership renewal invoices. If you would like to discuss how your company may maximise the benefits of membership, please feel free to contact me personally at greg@bccthai.com. BCCT is now moving swiftly to implement a huge development of our digital communications platforms. A re-design of the BCCT website and email templates is long overdue. Furthermore, we only have a presence on social media without coming close to exploiting its full potential in communicating more effectively with our members. We will look to establish a Blog to post all news, reports and articles in order to create a real-time resource. The website and emails will be more modern and mobile friendly with short, sharp text and eyecatching images without embedded text. For social media there will be more regular posts including those with themed messaging, utilising LinkedIn and supported by LINE, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the ability to move swiftly to other platforms if these become more popular with members.
8
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
BCCT does not have the expertise in the executive team to implement these developments internally. Therefore, in the first quarter of 2020, we will be approaching BCCT members to bid on this project. It is likely that the cost cannot be covered by BCCT’s usual small operational budget surplus. Therefore, discussions will take place at board level about ring-fencing this project and making a structured financial loss by utilising some of BCCT’s strong financial reserves. Members will be informed as and when such Board decisions are made. Sadly, one of the casualties of joining the new age of digital comms is that we will be discontinuing The LINK magazine. One year ago we moved to a digital only magazine with an option to print-to-order that nobody took advantage of. With the digital comms project described in previous paragraphs, BCCT will have several platforms to deliver news and articles that would have previously been published in The LINK to members as soon as they are available rather than waiting for a quarterly publication. We can also offer our partners and sponsors more innovative ways of promoting their products and services. At the Annual General Meeting we will bid farewell and offer grateful thanks to two long-serving past Chairs and board directors who are stepping down from the board. Country Manager for ManpowerGroup, Simon Matthews was first elected to the BCCT board in 2009. He served as Chairman for five years from 2014 to 2018 and as Vice Chair in 2019. Airline Partners
Simon Landy was co-founder and Executive Chairman of Colliers International Thailand until his retirement in 2017. He was first elected to the BCCT board in 2011 and served as Chairman in 2012 and 2013 and as Vice Chair from 2014 to 2017. Both Simons have contributed an enormous amount of time and support to BCCT over the last decade. They will be missed on the BCCT board but will continue to support BCCT as members.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
9
Cover story
Landmark blockchain deal for Standard Chartered and PTT S
tandard Chartered Bank has executed a pilot transaction for PTT Group, PTT International Trading Pte Ltd and IRPC Public Company Limited, paving the way in transforming documentary trade with the first cross-border Letter of Credit (LC) issued over the Voltron blockchain platform in the oil industry. Significant cargo values mean that oil companies often rely upon Letters of Credit as a form of short-term trade finance. However, this process is paperwork-intensive and requires up to five days for the delivery of these documents. This pilot project involved the shipment of an oil product from Thailand to Singapore. Standard Chartered was able to digitise and simplify the end to end exchange of information between all parties in the transaction on the Voltron platform including the issuance, advising and negotiation of LC and presentation of documents. As the documents were sent electronically, all trade participants can view real time updates on the progress of the transaction. This resulted in a significant reduction of processing time to less than 12 hours, in addition to achieving greater transparency and cost efficiencies across the supply chain. Wittawat Svasti-Xuto, Chief Technology and Engineering Officer at PTT Public Company Limited (PTT), explained that PTT perceived the opportunity to utilise innovative digital technology to not only support and strengthen its petroleum and petrochemical business operations but
10
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Plakorn Wanglee
also to enable the business to be adaptive for changes and create opportunities for trades and business operations among PTT Group. With accumulated experience and expertise, PTT has successfully utilised blockchain technology to reinforce the business efficiency
Cover Story
between IRPC Public Company Limited and PTT International Trading Pte Ltd. Therefore, in this digital era, PTT is now ready to pursue new business opportunities for sustainable growth in the future. Noppadol Pinsupa, President of IRPC Public Company Limited (IRPC), said, “Given digitisation is one of IRPC’s top priorities as a part of GDP (Growth, Digital and People strategy it is a great opportunity to work with Standard Chartered Bank on this international trading digitisation journey. “This cross-border LC blockchain transaction is actually one of our further steps of the blockchain utilisation apart from others. The hands-on experience of our involvement and contribution to Project Voltron in this pilot transaction will certainly bring us to the forefront of the rapid evolvement of technology utilisation to improve the transaction efficiency while reducing the processing period. We are looking forward to running and expanding our export transactions with our trading partners on Voltron platform soon.” Miss Supasachi Hongsinlark, Managing Director of PTT International Trading Pte. Ltd, said, “PTT International Trading Pte Ltd aims to develop its business toward becoming a more digitally advance company.
Trade Product Management at Standard Chartered Bank. “As our clients increasingly look to technology to address the challenges of today’s global trade environment, we are extremely optimistic and excited about the potential opportunities that Voltron brings to the industry with its demonstrated benefits in improved speed and reduced risks of settlement, as well as its flexibility in connecting banks, businesses and other thirdparty providers in its network.” Jordane Rollin, Global Head of Digital Transformation, Trade Product Management at Standard Chartered Bank and a Voltron Steering Committee member, added, “We are transforming trade finance by investing in technology and building partnerships. As the consortium prepares for full commercialisation of the network, we are continuously getting feedback from our clients via pilots to enhance Voltron with new features. “We have also started to ramp up on our contribution to this initiative to expand its offering beyond Letters of Credit and become a new industry standard for digitised traditional trade.”
Recognising the importance and benefits of using modern technology, blockchain technology is used to improve management process which increases trading efficiency and reduces turnaround time of the LC process. The system will provide more visibility to monitor trade finance flow in real time, which will improve transparency and credibility for the trading process and thus strengthen the relationship between our partners and stakeholders in the long run.
Plakorn Wanglee, President and CEO of Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) Public Company Limited and Representative Offices, observed, “Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) Pcl’s priorities are to optimise our international network and introduce digitisation to enable our clients’ operational efficiency. It is an honour for us to have completed the very first real shipment transaction between Thailand and Singapore on the Voltron Platform. The learning, experience and opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of international trade along this journey with the teams from PTT International Trading Pte Ltd. and IRPC Pcl. have been tremendous and valuable. We are looking forward to the progress of Project Voltron towards production stage soon.”
“This pilot transaction marks the first of many that will follow from our participation with Voltron to digitise trade and enhance the client journey,” said Samuel Mathew, Global Head, Documentary
Standard Chartered is one of the founder members of Voltron, a blockchain-based open industry platform to digitally create, exchange, approve and issue Letters of Credits.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
11
Cover story
Thai banks adapt to new Lao market regulations T
hree large Thai banks are recapitalising branches in Laos to comply with the Bank of the Lao PDR’s amended capital regulations for both local and foreign commercial banks to meet minimum requirements over the course of five years.
to raise minimum registered capital from 50 billion kip (US$5.8 million) to 30 billion kip. The Lao central bank allows commercial banks to increase capital either on a one-time basis or in phases over the fiveyear period.
Media reports state that Kasikornbank has been injecting funds into its Lao branches ahead of recapitalisation set for next month.
Khun Deja Tulananda, executive chairman of Bangkok Bank (BBL), was reported as stating that the bank was ready to increase capital to meet the new regulation.
The bank, Thailand’s second-biggest lender by assets, has operated in Laos since 2014 and has two branches that will, by 2023, have combined registered capital of US$ 63 million, thus comfortably exceeding the minimum requirement. New regulations imposed by the Lao central bank require foreign commercial banks
BBL, Thailand’s third-biggest bank, has the largest international banking network for a Thai bank, with 32 foreign branches. It has operated in Laos for 26 years through two branches offering corporate loans, trade finance and custodial services.
Laos-Thailand Friendship Bridge - The Laotian Times
12
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Cover story
Calls for Thai government to increase fiscal spending B
usinesses and investors are expecting the Thai government to increase fiscal spending to boost the economy, according to Standard Chartered Bank’s local business and investor survey. Dimmed by external factors and a lack of fresh domestic drivers, large Thai businesses, multinational companies and local asset managers reflected poor sentiment toward their business outlook in the last quarter of 2019 and first three months of 2020. Respondents to the Standard Chartered Bank survey indicated that their biggest concern was a possible further escalation of the US-China trade war with 50 percent having experienced a negative impact from the dispute and 30 percent believing that they would soon be affected. Tim Leelahaphan, Economist at Standard Chartered Bank (Thai), said, “A trade war resolution, if reached, would significantly boost the global economy in the next couple of years, according to the survey respondents. If not, they do not see any positive factors or measures that can effectively push world growth higher. “This may also mean that economic policies, especially monetary policy, are viewed as becoming less effective at this juncture. In fact, the reduced effectiveness of central banks’ policies is a major concern for investors.” Business leaders and investors were also expecting the government to step up fiscal spending to boost the economy. However, they remained conservative given the uncertain political environment.
Tim Leelahaphan
On the FX front, respondents were surprised by the strength of the Thai baht (THB) as fundamentals have weakened and do not justify such a strong currency. Of the respondents, 60 percent believed that the currency’s strength has adversely affected business, as managing FX risk had become more difficult, while some had continued to lose export market share. Cheaper imports had improved margins for some. Standard Chartered Bank reported a bearish short-term bias towards the economy. “While we still think three percent growth is achievable this year this is partly due to the expected boost to H2 growth from a low base. Growth has been grinding lower on both the external and domestic fronts and signs of a turnaround are not yet clear, added Tim Leelahaphan. The Link
Final Issue | 2019
13
Cover story
Opportunities in Thailand for UK finance companies By Paul Gambles
D
espite the City of London’s global reputation, British financial institutions - with a few exceptions - seem to be falling behind when it comes to taking advantage of the combination of exceptional opportunities and an evolving regulatory environment currently offered by Thailand. The British presence in Thailand’s investment and banking sectors could be argued to have peaked several years ago. Aberdeen Asset Management among the first major foreign firms to establish a local mutual fund management business in 1996 and, at the time, London-based HSBC and Standard Chartered had both operated in Thailand for over 100 years. Since then there has been enormous growth in the Thai banking and financial sector. Today the SEC licences 58 securities companies, 29 asset managers, 13 investment advisors, 27 commercial banks and 14 life insurance companies – in most cases representing a major increase on the number of licence holders in the early 1990s. However, the only notable British addition to the roster of local fund managers is specialist boutique Siam Knight Fund Management. While HSBC & Standard Chartered remain active in Thailand, especially in corporate and institutional business, both banks have exited the retail sector in the last decade - scaling back the British presence here from what was argu-
14
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
ably the pinnacle in 1999 when Standard Chartered had acquired the 67 branch network of Nakornthon Bank. Since then, British involvement in the Thai financial sector arguably lagged that of other countries. Even when Prudential acquired majority stakes in TMB Asset Management and Thanachart Asset Management, becoming Thailand’s fourth biggest asset manager in the process, it did so via its Singaporean subsidiary Eastspring Investments. Why the lag? The biggest licensed sector in Thailand is broking which, in the digital age, is truly global In Thailand there is significant American, French, Japanese, Liechtensteiner, Malaysian, Singaporean, Swiss and Taiwanese presence. However, the UK financial sector has tended to move on from the iconic image of dealers in post Big Bang open outcry pits to more sophisticated and added value services. Therefore, the lack of UK representation in this sector isn’t perhaps a major concern. More worrying perhaps is the way that the Thai banking sector seems to have bypassed British banks – not only do Canadian, Chinese, Dutch, Singaporean and Taiwanese banks either operate subsidiaries or have stakes in Thai commercial banks and various American, Canadian, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Indian, Japanese, Liech-
Cover story
increased 2017 from $75 billion to $100 billion and recently to $150 billion. In the licensed advisor space, MBMG Investment Advisory continues to combine a mix of British and Thai expertise but notes that, despite the actions taken against unregulated advisors in recent years, there are still 142 firms listed as operating or having operated without a licence. Sadly, it seems that British representation in this much less estimable register is much higher. Considering the UK’s place as one of the two leading global financial centres along with the reputation and prestige of the British investment industry, it is disappointing that there is not a greater inflow of financial expertise into Thailand to supplement the efforts of Siam Knight, Merian, Schroder, Standard Life, Veritas and MBMG. We advise both expatriates and Thais, bringing together a wealth of crosscultural experience in our offerings for individuals and Thai, foreign or JVs.
tensteinian and Swiss banks have a Bangkok branch or office here, but also Swiss Private Banks, Lombard Odier and Julius Baer have entered into collaborations and ventures with Kasikorn Bank and SCB respectively. On the fund management side the range of feeder funds available to local investors is dominated by American giants such as Blackrock, Dimensional, Invesco, Janus, JP Morgan, PIMCO, State Street and T. Rowe Price; Swiss managers GAM & Pictet; Japanese firm Nomura; German managers Allianz and DWS, and South Africa’s Investec that, for example, make up the lion’s share of the almost 100 foreign funds available through SCB Asset Management. Four UK management firms, Merian, Schroder, Standard Life and Veritas fly the Union flag but make up less than 10 percent of the available funds. This is becoming increasingly important in view of the growth in Thai investments through such funds, with the annual limits
Paul Gambles is Managing Director at MBMG Investment Advisory, Bangkok. Paul is licensed by the SEC as both a Securities Fundamental Investment Analyst and an Investment Planner. MBMG advises expatriates and Thais, bringing together a wealth of crosscultural experience in its offerings. MBMG Investment Advisory is licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Thailand as an Investment Advisor under licence number Dor 06-0055-21. For further information, please contact Paul by e-mail on info@mbmginvestment.com
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
15
Cover story
BoT cuts policy interest rate
Titanun Mallikamas, MPC secretary
T
he Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has voted to cut the policy interest rate to match the record low of 1.25 percent in a bid to aid Thailand’s economic growth. Five of the seven members of the rate setting panel voted for a 25-basis-point rate cut on the grounds that a more accommodating monetary policy would contribute to economic growth and support headline inflation to rise towards the target. Two members voted to keep the policy rate unchanged, on the grounds that a rate cut might not lend additional support for economic growth compared with a potential increase in financial stability risk. “The committee determined that the Thai economy would expand at a lower rate than previously assessed, below its potential, because of a decline in exports that has affected employment and domestic demand,” said MPC secretary Titanun Mallikamas. “Headline inflation was projected to be below the lower bound of the inflation target.
16
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
There is limited space to cut the policy interest rate further as the existing level is already low.” The MPC was set to revise its forecast for GDP growth in 2019 and 2020 at the December 2019 meeting, when a downgrade was anticipated. The committee had been projecting growth to expand by 2.8 percent this year and 3.3 percent next year. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is one of the main committees of the Bank of Thailand and is responsible for setting the monetary policy stance. The MPC works closely with the staff of the Bank of Thailand in monitoring internal and external economic conditions. In formulating the monetary policy direction, MPC makes assessments and policy decisions based upon data provided by the Bank of Thailand. The Monetary Policy Committee, chaired by Khun Veerathai Santiprabhob, comprises three internal member and four external members.
Cover story
Standard Chartered makes major digital investment S
tandard Chartered Bank is investing THB 60 billion annually to improve its digital banking services, according to Group CEO Bill Winters. He said that the bank’s strategy was to seek new business opportunities in high-growth markets such as Thailand. Standard Chartered’s main strategy is to invest more on facilitating cross-border trade while also investing in every border-trade market due to the recent rapid growth. Winters forecasted that, over the next 20 years, growth in the global market will depend significantly on border trade. In the next three years, the bank is forecasting between three and five percent yearly income growth.
“Every bank has an upturn or a downturn in every market. Some markets have a good economy but some don’t. Some markets face politically change. However, we have to follow our motto ‘Here for Good ’. This means we will stand beside our customers whether in an upturn or a downturn,” he added. “When we decide to invest, it means a longterm investment. We intend to expand our business constantly. Our strategy is to improve what we have been doing well in such markets and to take part in growing such markets. “With digital disruption hitting every sector, banks are also having to adapt to change,” added Bill Winters. “In doing so, the bank will evaluate its processes so as to offer better service.
Bill Winters
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
17
Cover story
Thailand’s banking system emains resilient R
eviewing the performance of Thailand’s banking system in the Q3 2019 Tharith Panpiemras, Senior Director at the Bank of Thailand Banking Supervision and Risk Assessment Department, stated that the Thai banking system remained resilient with higher levels of capital fund and loan loss provision to withstand a potential adverse impact from economic uncertainty. He added that the banking system’s performance had improved in the third quarter with capital funds in the system standing at THB 2,738 billion and that there was also a higher capital adequacy ratio (BIS ratio) at 19.2 percent. Loan loss provision increased by THB 9.9 billion from the previous quarter to THB 690.5 billion with higher ratio of actual to regulatory loan loss provision at 196.3 percent to withstand economic uncertainty. Liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) remained high at 185 percent. The continued economic slowdown adversely impacted bank loan growth and asset quality, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. As a consequence, bank loan growth continued to decline from 4.2 percent last quarter to 3.8 percent yearon-year. Details of bank loan growth are as follows: Corporate loan (64.7 percent of total loans) grew at 1.3 percent year-on-year. Large corporate loan growth (excluding financial business) slightly increased from 2.2 percent last quarter to 2.6 percent year-on-year
18
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Gross NPL outstanding stood at THB 469.5 billion, increasing by THB 19 billion from Q2 - mainly attributed to an increase in NPL of a large corporate in real estate business and the deterioration in asset quality of SMEs. The NPL amount outstanding of mortgage and auto loans continued to increase. However, the ratio of special mention loans (SMs) to total loans declined from 2.74 percent last quarter to 2.59 percent as a result of one large corporate being reclassified as NPL. despite loan repayments by some large corporates that raised funds through the bond market. SME loan (excluding financial business) contracted following a decline in bank lending to both small and medium sized enterprises. Consumer loans (35.3 percent of total loans) continued to grow robustly despite a decline in the growth rate from 9.2 percent last quarter to 8.7 percent. This was due largely to two consecutive quarters of slower growth in mortgage lending following a period of accelerated growth prior to the implementation of Loan to Value (LTV) measure, as well as a slower growth in auto loan consistent with a slowdown in domestic car sales. However, personal loan and credit card loan continued to grow at a higher pace. On the loan quality front, the ratio of gross non-performing loans (NPLs) to total loans increased from 2.95 percent last quarter to 3.01 percent.
In the third quarter of 2019, the banking system recorded net profit of THB 96.5 billion, increasing from the same period last year. This was mainly driven by an extraordinary item from gains on sale of investment by a large Thai bank. As a result, nine-month net profit rose to THB 214.4 billion. Excluding this extraordinary item a third quarter net profit still increased compared to the same period last year, which was attributed to an increase in net interest income as a result of retail loan portfolio expansion, higher dividend income and fee income from securities brokerage and bancassurance. Higher provisioning expenses were set aside as a buffer against deteriorating asset quality as well as economic uncertainty. Overall, the return on asset (ROA) increased from 1.26 percent last quarter to 1.98 percent 1 , while the ratio of net interest income to average interest-earning assets (Net Interest Margin: NIM) remained stable at 2.74 percent.
Cover story
Q3 results prompt HSBC review H
SBC’s acting Group CEO Noel Quinn told investors that the banking giant was underperforming in parts of Europe and the United States with third-quarter profits slipping and the lender warning of further headwinds. The bank has been looking to lower costs as it faces uncertainties caused by the US-China trade war and the UK’s departure from the European Union. “Parts of our business, especially Asia, held up well in a challenging environment in the third quarter,” said Quinn. “However, in some parts, performance was not acceptable - principally business activities within continental Europe, the non-ringfenced bank in the UK, and the US. “Our previous plans are no longer sufficient to improve performance for these businesses, given the softer outlook for revenue growth. We are therefore accelerating plans to remodel them, and move capital into higher growth and return opportunities.” The results statement for Q3 did not include details of any further restructuring but indicated that investors would be updated before February 2020 when the full year results are released. In the results, pre-tax profit slipped 18 percent on-year to US$4.8 billion in July-September with Asia contributing US$4.7 billion.
Noel Quinn
Adjusted pretax profits fell by 12 percent to US$5.3 billion; net profits fell by 24 per cent to US$3 billion and revenue slipped by 3.2 percent to US$13.4 billion. The bank said its performance in the disrupted environment of Hong Kong had remained resilient.
Pretax profits in Hong Kong rose one percent in the third quarter to US$3 billion but the bank noticeably listed a charge of US$90 million to reflect the deteriorating economic outlook in the city.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
19
Integrated Facilities Management
INTEGRATED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT We provide leading Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) using best practices established since 1900, by our experienced teams across the globe. IFM offers a comprehensive range of facilities management services for all non-core business activities, bringing sustainable solutions that add value to your business.
Our Solutions : Canteen & Kitchen Management Cleaning Engineering Solutions Food Service Management Gardening & Landscaping Helpdesk Inventory & Stocktaking Receptionist Security Personnel & Systems Specialist Cleaning Visitor Management Systems
2019
BEST
PRACTICES AWARD
THAILAND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
FROST & SULLIVAN WINNING AWARD
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2014 to 2019
SYSTEM CERTIFICATION ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001
PCS Security and Facility Services Limited (Head Office) 234 Soi Sukhumvit 101Link (Punnavithi) Sukhumvit Road Bangchak Prakanong Bangkok 10260 20 The Final Issue | 2019 Tel: +66 2741 8800, Fax: +66 2741 8062-3, www.pcs.co.th
Find out more customer@pcs.co.th
1290
Call Centre :
General news
TAT gives backing to Global Summit of Women From left: Kitsana Kaewtumrong, TAT Executive Director of the Advertising and Public Relations Department; Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications; Irene Natividad, President of the GlobeWomen Research and Education Institute; Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul; Dr. Chonchanok Viravan, past International President of International Federation of Business and Professional Women and Vice Chairman of the Thai Host Committee.
T
he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is supporting the 2020 Global Summit of Women that takes place in Bangkok from 23-25 April. TAT executives, led by Tanes Petsuwan, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, and Kitsana Kaewtumrong, Executive Director of the Advertising and Public Relations Department, welcomed Irene Natividad, President of the GlobeWomen Research and Education Institute, to a meeting in Bangkok in preparation for the 2020 Global Summit. Tanes Petsuwan said, “Thailand is ready to host the 2020 Global Summit of Women in Bangkok and celebrate its 30th year of promoting women’s advancement in the global economy. That Thailand has been chosen as the host country can be attributed to the hard work and contribution of
the Thai Host Committee, chaired by Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, former Minister of Tourism and Sports.” The 2020 Global Summit of Women is expected to see over 1,000 leaders in business and government from around the world celebrating the 30th Anniversary Summit in Bangkok and discussing several issues under the theme ‘Women: Revolutionising Economies’. Key topics include ‘Changing the Face of Economic Leadership Globally’, ‘Promoting Ethical Corporate Governance through Diverse Perspectives’, ‘Creating Innovative Enterprises for 21st Century Global Markets’, ‘Increasing Countries GDPs While Uplifting Families and Communities’, and ‘Leading the Fight to Preserve the Planet’s Resources for Future Growth’.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
21
Member articles
Why hire an event planner? By Catherine Pucher
T
he general perception is that hiring an Event Planner is a luxury which many companies cannot afford and that they are expensive. As in any industry, there are specialists for a reason and, although initially they may seem costly, when we are looking at the service industries (event planning in particular), hiring a professional will entail more value for money spent, can entail a better overall cost and in extraordinary cases, both. Although an event planner will have a fee or charge a percentage, the relationships, power of negotiation and contact list possessed by the event planner will be more cost effective. Just as companies have corporate policies of requesting a minimum of three quotations, an event planner does not pick the first vendor it encounters. The event planner has already done this research, received more than three quotations and has already ‘tried and tested’ the services offered - ensuring that quality is up to mark as well as negotiated prices to ensure the end-user is receiving the best price for the quality of service. All of this is extremely timeconsuming - time which a client may not have. It can take many years to build solid relationships with vendors and venues. A company may bring one piece of business to a venue every year whilst an event planner may bring many more pieces of business to that venue as well as others, therefore creating a stronger relationship with a variety of options. This does not mean that venues or vendors will treat a corporate client as less important but rather than the
22
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
The Hilton Bangkok Sukhumvit hotel offers flexible meetings space for business and social events.
power of negotiation with an event planner is much stronger.
performers are on time and ready to perform.
Many corporate companies have good relationships with a particular venue and/or vendor but events can also become monotonous and tedious, therefore creating a requirement for continuous innovative ideas.
It pays off to hire an event planner that will take the work load off the client, suggest options or alternatives that the client would have never found on his/her own, negotiate prices that the client may not receive on their own and manage a professionally executed event, which all guests will appreciate and enjoy.
Unless a company has its own events team it is almost impossible for it to have the time and the resources to deliver unique experiences during each function. Thereafter every little detail of an event requires attention for the proper execution; checking that all microphones work; that the projectors are connected and visuals can be seen throughout the venue; ensuring all food and beverages are served on time or delayed properly if required; certifying that none of the decoration hinders visibility to the main focus of the event from any angle of the function; safeguarding that the speakers are looked after and ready for their cue, and ensuring that entertainers/
At Shloka Events we not only build relationships with venues and vendors but also with our clients. It is not a matter of small or large budgets but about creating a synergy and knowing our clients’ likes as well as dislikes and being able to create tailor-made events for them, ensuring new experiences every single time. Catherine Pucher is Business Head - South East Asia at Shloka Events, 125/5 Soi Ruam Rudee, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 Tel: (+66) 827509694 Email: catherine@shlokaevents.com www.shlokaevents.com
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
23
Member news
Real estate investment set for bumper year I
nvestment in Asia Pacific real estate reached US$125 billion in the first three quarters of 2019, up 10 percent year-on-year, and is set for another strong year in 2020 according to real estate consultancy JLL. Foreign investments into Asia Pacific are at a decade-high, making up 35 percent of total volumes, mostly driven by private equity funds and largescale transactions. “Real estate in Asia Pacific has gained favour in the last year as investors continue to seek high yields and stability amid a climate of geopolitical uncertainty and slowing economic growth. As an increasing amount of capital is being allocated to real estate, we’re seeing more clients making larger-scale investments to expand their portfolios,” explained Stuart Crow, CEO Capital Markets Asia Pacific at JLL. “Over the next two years, we expect
24
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
global real estate transaction volumes to stay elevated and Asia Pacific to outperform Europe and the Americas with an outsized portion of global investor interest.” JLL is listing five key trends that investors should look out for in 2020. Logistics assets Investor appetite for logistics continues to pick up, meaning these types of facilities are held tightly. The result is that investors must become more creative in order to access quality assets. “We’re seeing more investors form joint ventures with major established players. Some are taking partial stakes or even going into public markets. A recent example is Canadian pension fund OMERS’s cornerstone investment in ESR logistics platform when the latter filed to be listed on Hong
Kong’s stock exchange,” said Stuart Crow. “Another avenue to accessing quality portfolios has been via the mergers and acquisitions route, with the likes of warehouse operator GLP, Viva industrial REIT and Propertylink REIT among some of the larger platforms to be acquired.” REITS In 2019, Asia Pacific REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) raised a record amount of capital at over US$14 billion - surpassing the previous record of US$13.8 billion in 2013. JLL predicts that Singapore and India will see more REIT initial public offerings next year, mainly driven by their focused growth strategies and consistent trading performance. More strategic mergers and acquisitions will al-
Member news
low funds to grow geographically and deepen their investments into newer markets in U.S. and Europe. Stuart Crow added, “REITs are likely to continue their strong trading performance and be highly competitive buyers of real estate assets. Size matters - and we can expect to see more consolidation in this sector.”
of its CBD, encouraging the redevelopment of older office buildings into mixed-use integrated developments and reducing the use of private transport. Similarly, Beijing has restricted the size of commercial developments in the central area and is targeting population reductions in the six central districts by 15 percent compared to 2014 levels.
Beijing’s office market will become a hotspot for investors next year as it has a strong talent pool supported by a deep-rooted innovation ecosystem. It has nurtured the most unicorns outside of Silicon Valley and is the third largest destination for venture capital funding,” added Stuart Crow. Flex space
Sustainability initiatives
Innovative cities
The next generation of buildings is set to become ‘greener’ with sustainable technologies to save on operating costs as well as innovative design to attract more occupiers and tenants, according to JLL. Singapore-listed Keppel REIT has obtained a green loan facility to grow its green building portfolio.
According to JLL’s latest Premium Office Rent Tracker, technology firms – particularly online platforms – are playing a greater role in driving up rents for premium offices, which have previously been the domain of the banking and financial services industry. This is particularly the case in innovation-rich cities such as Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore and Osaka.
“We believe that governments in this region are sustainability conscious and proactive in transforming their cities to make them smarter and more liveable. These initiatives present opportunities for astute real estate investors, either by acquiring or developing sustainable assets, or being a part of the city redevelopment process, explained Stuart Crow.” Singapore has begun its sustainability journey with the decentralisation
Corporate occupiers are attracted to these locations with sophisticated innovation ecosystems. These cities sustain highly skilled workforces and are best placed to succeed in the global marketplace. “We’ve seen how technology can help to shape a city’s economic growth by attracting investors and companies.
By 2020, collaborative and agile workspaces are expected to increase from 19 percent in 2018 to around 30 percent of corporate commercial property portfolios worldwide, according to a JLL survey of 560 corporate real estate leaders. The firm predicts that flex spaces could expand in key gateway cities such as Singapore, Tokyo and Sydney, where demand continues to be high and there is room for more coworking operators and serviced offices to grow. “Flexible space in Asia Pacific continues to attract the attention of investors and occupiers alike as the sector maintains its strong growth trajectory,” concluded Stuart Crow. “Landlords and developers are likely to maintain their partnerships with coworking operators or serviced offices, and some will create their own flex space offerings to keep up with tenants’ changing needs.”
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
25
Member news
Slow down continues for Bangkok condo sales T
he Bangkok condominium market continued to slow down in the first half of 2019 with a decrease in demand from local and international buyers, according to experts at Knight Frank Thailand. Managing Director Phanom Kanjanatheimthao said that property developers had been exercising caution when launching new projects, adjusting plans to better suit the economic conditions. Many listed developers reported a decrease in the value of condominium presales during the H1 2019 with speculative demand also decreasing due to the market cooling. Weaker demand from foreign buyers was linked directly to the strength of the Thai baht against the yuan and US dollar as well as the unpredictability of the US-China trade dispute. However, Knight Frank did not expect to see a fall in the prices of condominiums as the company was not anticipating a decline in land prices. Supply According to Knight Frank Thailand Research, the Bangkok condominium supply during the first half of 2019 amounted to 594,453 units, of which around 27,870 units were launched in the first half of 2019, decreasing by 19 percent compared to the newly launched during the same period last year. Phanom Kanjanathiemthao
26
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Member news
The majority of new launches were still in the peripheral Bangkok area, representing 53 percent of 1H 2019’s new supply, followed by the city fringe and CBD areas, representing by 32 percent and 15 percent, respectively. Of all condominium units launched in the first half, 55 percent were in areas along the operating mass-transit lines whilst 42 percent were in areas along mass-transit lines under construction. This reflects a tendency of developers to stick to areas with good infrastructure and amenities where chances of sales are reasonably good.
It is estimated that the new condominium launches for the full year will probably level off at 50,000 units, down 27 percent from the previous
year. Approximately 74 percent of all newly launched units are from listed developers.
High land costs along transit lines make any kind of development other than high-rise buildings economically unviable. Areas along transit lines or extensions under construction are becoming more attractive to developers and buyers as land costs are still reasonable and quality condominiums can be had for less than THB 120,000 per square metre.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
27
Member news
Demand There were approximately 501,638 condominium units sold out of 594,453
units, representing the sold rate of 84 percent, which is stable from the end of 2018. The number of unsold condominium units continues to climb.
For the newly-launched 27,870 units during H1 2019 only 19 percent (5,257) were sold. The Q2 sales rate for newly-launched condominiums dropped from 22.6 percent in Q1 to 15.7 percent (an all-time low) in Q2. The sales rate for new condominiums launched in Bangkok during the first half of 2019 fell to historic lows as loan-to-value (LTV) limits, a weak economy and stronger baht dampened demand. The normal quarterly sales rate for new condominium launches is around 40-50 percent. Tougher loan-to-value (LTV) requirements from the Bank of Thailand are also starting to have an impact. The appreciation of the baht against the US dollar and the yuan had also impacted demand for residential
28
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Member news
properties from foreign investors, resulting in a drop in bookings during the second quarter of this year.
will result in a large amount of inventory.
in every location, a price war began in mid-year with developers offering discounts as high as 20 percent.
Pricing The property market is going through a hard period with both domestic and overseas demand dropping as a result of the LTV coming into effect and the baht appreciation. The LTV policy that Bank of Thailand hoped would put a brake on condominium speculators had a strong impact on real buyers in not just Greater Bangkok, but also in the provinces. Developers shifted to launching more low-rise residential projects such as single detached houses, semi-detached houses and townhouses. Developers that keep launching new condominiums will find it more difficult as the sales rate is not as good as expected and
Outlook The asking prices of condominium projects continued to climb throughout Bangkok but at different paces, depending on the location. The average selling price of condominiums in the CBD was at THB 267,281 per square metre, increasing by 2.5 percent from the end of 2018. This was followed by the average selling price of city fringe condominiums increasing by two percent to THB 148,466 per square metre. The average selling price of condominiums in the peripheral area of Bangkok increased by 1.5 percent to THB 80,312 per square metre. Although the asking price increased
To boost sales in the second half of the year, most property firms launched promotional campaigns and collaborations with strategic partners to offer purchasers more for their money. There are still opportunities for new developments, but it will be a much more challenging environment driven by end user purchasers. The situation will diminish buy-torent purchasers, given low rental yields and the lack of growth in expatriate tenant numbers. However, the introduction of the new land tax in 2020 is not expected to have a significant impact upon condominium buyers.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
29
Member news
Chaeng Wattana in development spotlight
Service route of the MRT Pink Line (Khae Rai-Min Buri)
T
he Chaeng Wattana area north of Bangkok city has outstanding potential as a business and commercial district. Phanom Kanjanathiemthao, Managing Director at Knight Frank Thailand, said that there are a variety of mixed real estate projects now under planning and development by many large developers and that some of these projects have started to occupy land in the area. The Chaeng Wattana area is located within the Pink Line rail development project of Khae Rai-Min Buri. The route, which runs along the entire Chaeng Wattana road, is scheduled to open in 2021. There is also a rail extension from the Si Rat-Muang Thong Thani station, which is designed as a straddle monorail system. The connection point is at the Si Rat 30
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Station of the Pink Line train project of Khae Rai-Min Buri. The main line runs to the west and turns right into Muang Thong Thani along Soi Chaeng Watthana-Pak Kret 39 – the same direction as the Udon Ratthaya Expressway – and continues to the end of the project at Muang Thong Thani Lake. It comprises two passenger terminal stations, namely MT-01 station located at Impact Challenger; and MT-02 station which is situated in front of Muang Thong Thani lake. The total distance covered is about three kilometres. Khun Phanom explained that when the project is completed it will increase efficiency for people travelling from the Chaeng Watthana Road area to Muang Thong Thani - a dense residential area as well as home to various organisations and venues such as Impact Exhibition
and Convention Centre, SCG Stadium, Thunder Dome and Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University. The Pink Line rail project will also connect to three other lines, namely the Purple Line from Tao PoonKhlong Bang Phai (currently open for service) connecting with the Pink Line at Nonthaburi Government Centre Station; the Dark Red Line from Bang Sue-Rangsit (currently under construction and will be open around 2021) connecting with the Pink Line at Laksi Station, and the Dark Green Line (Mo Chit - Saphan Mai - Khu Khot) connecting with the Pink Line at Wat Phra Si Mahathat Station (future project). Chaeng Wattana is located near Don Mueang Airport. Knight Frank expects that there will be more flights with the number of passengers increasing to as many as 50 - 60 million by 2030.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
31
Member news
Property developers eye condotels in Thailand tourist hot spots
C
ondotels have emerged as an increasingly popular property development format in major tourist destinations such as Pattaya, Phuket and Bangkok, despite the fact that Thai law prohibits short-term leasing of residential properties. This trend has been driven by strong demand from individual investors looking for more flexible rental assets and property developers looking for new opportunities in an alternative real estate sector, according to international property consultant JLL. A condotel is a condominium development with a hotel licence that permits the use of condominiums as hotel accommodation that may be offered for short term lease (daily or weekly). Thai law does not allow owners of condominiums to rent out their units for less than 30 days without a hotel licence.
Chakkrit Chakrabandhu Na Ayudhya, Executive Vice President – Investment Sales at JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group, said, “Though condotels are not new to Thailand and can be found across the country they still represent a small part of the country’s real estate industry. However, our research shows that condotels are becoming an increasingly popular development option and are likely to grow in number over the next few years.” According to JLL data, condotels are becoming prominent in Phuket where the stock of supply across the island will surpass the 3,000 unit mark by the end of 2021, accounting for over 30 percent of total new hotel rooms. Blue Horizon Developments 32
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
has launched a 189-room condotel project, the Best Western Plus The Beachfront Rawai, and is currently developing five projects with over 1,500 units set to open in the next three years. Pattaya is another up-and-coming condotel market with more than 1,100 new units scheduled to enter the market by 2021. Habitat Group is the market’s most active player, operating two developments – X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere Residence and X2 Pattaya Oceanphere. The firm plans to open four new projects by 2022. In Bangkok there remains a limited stock of condotels that meet industry standards. However, property development firm Siamese Asset has been spotlighting the sector. In addition to its condotel development Blossom Condo @ Fashion the firm has launched two more condominium projects in Bangkok, namely The Siamese Exclusive and The Collection, where 50 percent of the total units will be condotels. Upon completion, the two new projects will be operated by Greenland International Hotels from China. To obtain a hotel licence, a condotel development must meet the minimum requirements in terms of specifications, facilities, operation and management under the Hotel Act 2004. In the majority of the purpose-built condotels, developers generally plan to obtain a hotel licence when the construction of the project is completed. Co-owners in a condotel development do not let their units directly to customers (guests), but rather to the operator managing the rental pool.
This could be the developer or an independent hotel/condotel operator. A few examples of international brands operating condotels in Thailand include Boutique Hotel Management Asia, Best Western and Wyndham. The majority of condotels are offered to investors on a guaranteed-return programme or a profit-sharing scheme. Guaranteed-return programmes are typically offered over a period of 2-3 years while some of the condotels in resort markets are on a profit-sharing scheme agreed upon between the unit owners and the operators. “Short-term leasing has become more popular in Thailand’s major condominium markets. But, without a hotel licence, it is an unlawful business,” says Pitinut Pupatwibul, Senior Vice President - Strategic Advisory, JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group. “Condotels are a development option that helps prevent co-owners offering units for short-term leasing from potential litigation. At the same time, the clear structure and purpose of uses of condotels can help prevent resistance from buyers for private use who may be unwilling to welcome short term guests into the building,” she added. Khun Chakkrit concluded, “For condominium developers, condotel development offers new opportunities in an alternative sector and gives their projects an additional advantage which is much needed in Thailand’s key condominium markets, particularly in Bangkok where sales have slowed and the market for longterm lease is highly competitive.”
Member news
New look for Dusit Suites Bangkok
D
usit Suites Hotel Ratchadamri in Bangkok has completed an extensive refurbishment to offer an elegant new look inspired by the timeless charm of Dusit’s legendary flagship hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok which, after almost 50 years of operations, is currently undergoing major redevelopment. The deluxe all-suite hotel, managed and operated by Dusit International, comprises 97 expansive suites on a peaceful, leafy avenue opposite the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, close to Ratchadamri BTS station. Refurbishment of the property began in September with the aim to continue the distinctive hospitality heritage of Dusit Thani Bangkok and provide a new home for fans of the hotel while it is being redeveloped as part of Dusit’s landmark mixed-use development, known as Dusit Central Park.
Many ornaments and artworks of sentimental and historical value from the flagship hotel have been used to decorate the spacious suites and lobby. The inviting and luxurious spaces have also been painted to reflect the elegant and soft colour palette of Dusit Thani Bangkok, resulting in a feeling of sophistication and exclusivity that pervades the entire property. A new dining experience has also been introduced at the decking overlooking the free-form swimming pool (with separate children’s pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and a well-equipped gym), where guests can now enjoy private al fresco dining in an elegantly decorated gazebo. The relaxed setting is perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a special get-together for up to four persons. A choice of Thai and international five-course set menus are available.
“We are delighted to unveil the results of the refurbishment and serve as a new home for fans of Dusit Thani Bangkok who are missing the property during its redevelopment,” said General Manager Titiya Xuto who also serves as Vice President Operations Thailand and Preopening Services at Dusit International. “Our property’s beautiful design and services, including Thai-inspired gracious hospitality delivered by many familiar faces from Dusit Thani Bangkok, coupled with our excellent location amidst one of the city’s most vibrant districts for business and leisure, means we are perfectly positioned to win many new fans too.” * The new Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel is scheduled to open in 2023 as part of Dusit Central Park The Link
Final Issue | 2019
33
Member news
Hotel investment volumes set to exceed US$11 billion in 2019
A
influx of foreign investment looking to tap into the region’s strong tourism growth and high yields.
sia Pacific’s hotel transaction volumes are expected to increase by 25 to 30 per cent year-on-year to more than US$11 billion in 2019, according to global real estate consultancy JLL.
South Korea has seen a spike in international investor interest in 2019. Overseas investors are gaining increasing access in a tightly-held market as more institutional investors look to exit their investments after the pre-specified hold periods.
“Despite a cautious economic climate and wider political headwinds, hotels in Asia Pacific present an attractive yield profile amid booming tourism demand, in the context of falling interest rates and bond yields,” said Mike Batchelor, CEO - JLL Hotels & Hospitality Asia Pacific. “Much demand this year has been buoyed by private equity firms, developers and domestic clients. This leads us to believe that 2019 will be the third most highly-transacted year in the past decade. To date, only 2017 and 2015 have surpassed the US$11 billion threshold.” According to JLL, the first nine months of the year have already seen US$7.8 billion worth of hotel investments in the region. Thanks to Japan and its series of mega events such as the 2019 Rugby World Cup, 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and 2025 World Expo, the country has reached close to US$3 billion of transaction volumes. “These tourism drivers will boost the need for accommodation assets, with investors looking to capitalise on the wave of demand. Japan is the region’s top performing market and forecast to hit a record high of US$4 billion in transaction volumes this year,” added Mike Batchelor.
34
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Mike Batchelor
Across the region, the hotel market outlook remains positive. In China, softening office leasing demand and sluggish retail sales have turned investors’ attention towards hotels, where trading performance has been resilient. Singapore has witnessed landmark deals this year including the sale of Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore to a Hong Kong joint venture for US$209 million. JLL acted as advisers on this deal and the US$344 million agreement to sell Andaz Singapore - the largest single-hotel asset transaction ever in the island city’s history. The JLL report states that while domestic investors have been active in their home markets, particularly in Japan and China, there remains an
Nihat Ercan, Managing Director Head of Investment Sales Asia at JLL Hotels & Hospitality, said, “Up until 2015, transactions in South Korea were almost purely domestic but today cross-border deals make up about a quarter of total transactions. As the market matures further, we can expect foreign investors to make up a larger proportion of trading volumes.” Another recipient of continued foreign capital is the Maldives, as identified in the JLL report. Its reputation as a sought-after tourist destination has attracted more than US$260 million in cross-border deals alone this year. “As both overseas and domestic investors seek out higher yielding opportunities across Asia Pacific, the hospitality sector will continue to shine,” concluded Nihat Ercan. “We’re confident that this investment momentum will continue to drive the region’s hotel transaction volumes going into 2020.”
Member news
Tesco Lotus secures renewable energy deal
T
esco Lotus has secured a Power Purchase Agreement with Cleantech Solar that provides renewable energy to 19 stores in Thailand. The agreement is expected to result in the generation of more than 21.5 GWh of clean energy, avoiding 12,515 tonnes of CO2 emissions in a year. Throughout the agreement, Cleantech Solar will fully finance the design, installation, operation and maintenance of the system -providing renewable energy without any capital investment. Miroslav Friml, Property Director Tesco Lotus, said, “Tesco Group has set a target to source 65 percent of electricity from renewable sources by 2020 and 100 percent by 2030 as part of our larger commitment to become a zero-carbon business by 2050. In 2016 we began installing rooftop solar panels at eight hypermarkets and five distribution centres. “With the added capacity this year, Tesco Lotus will generate over 36.5 GWh of clean electricity every year.
Our partnership with Cleantech Solar is a significant milestone that will help us to deliver on our commitment to renewable energy. Tesco Lotus is excited to be in this partnership with Cleantech Solar who has a proven track-record on delivering and operating high-performing PV systems across different geographies.”
Raju Shukla, Cleantech Solar Executive Chairman, said, “This partnership represents another success for our team in Thailand to deliver repeatable and reliable solar solutions to leading corporations. We are proud to be a part of Tesco Lotus’s sustainability journey to achieve their renewable energy goals.”
Miss Pariyarat Chunlakittiphan, Corporate Director of Human Resources of Chatrium Hotels & Residences (middle row, 7th from right), presented a scholarship to Narong Rattanasopa, Deputy Director of The Pattaya Redemptorist Technological College for People with Disabilities (middle row, 8th from right). The scholarship award is part of the company’s CSR programme.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
35
Member news
Understanding human migration at KIS
S
tudents in Grade 5 at KIS International School in Bangkok, Thailand, have been learning about migration. Guest speakers provided first-hand accounts representing different perspectives on migration, including a KIS teacher who was a child refugee from Vietnam; a representative of an NGO working with refugees; a KIS staff member who worked at a refugee camp, and a parent who has helped at an immigration detention centre. To gain a more in-depth personal understanding the Grade 5 teachers developed a simulation where the students were unexpectedly locked out of their classrooms and told to find a new place to go. Available rooms had conditions of entry such as wearing spectacles, speak-
ing a specific language, height, and religion. The exercise was designed to allow students to empathise and
reflect upon how human migration affects communities, cultures and individuals.
BCCT backs Aussie bushfires appeal BCCT is supporting AustCham Thailand in raising awareness of the urgent need for cash donations to support volunteers, firefighters and local communities affected by the devastating bushfires. If you wish to make a donation, please contact Chanakarn Lim (chanakarn@ austchamthailand.com) or call: 02 210 0216. Other recognised charities providing valuable assistance include the Australian Red Cross and the WWF. See more at these links: https://fundraise.redcross. org.au/drr and https://donate. wwf.org.au/#gs.qz5qrl
36
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Member news
Centara expands overseas portfolio C entara is undertaking significant growth in Thailand as well as expanding its footprint in international markets.
The group has opening the 145-key Centara Sonrisa Residences & Suites Sriracha on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard and added three hotels in the attractive Mai Khao Beach area of Phuket. In Krabi, the Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa opened in October and COSI Pattaya Naklua Beach is also welcoming guests.
Overseas, Centara has signed a joint venture agreement for its inaugural property in Japan: the 515-key Centara Grand Hotel Osaka scheduled to open in mid-2023.
expansion. Centara has signed an MoU to manage six properties in Myanmar including the 95-key Centara KMA Resort Inle Lake which is set to open in early 2020.
Centara will add two properties in Doha: The B Premiere Hotel, an 85room property under the Centara Boutique Collection which will open early next year, and the 167-key Centara Al Bustan Hotel Doha, which is under construction and due to open in 2021.
In Laos, the company has sealed management agreements for three new properties with a combined total of 216 keys in Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Pakse, which is scheduled to open in 2020.
South east Asia is also a key area of
In Vietnam the group has a stated goal of opening at least 20 new hotels nationwide in the next five years.
Hua Hin students prepare for university Students, parents and teachers enjoyed an inspiring talk about university life, led by representatives of Dusit Thani College. With the
school’s sixth form opening in August 2020, students are being encouraged to consider university options. The Dusit Thani College shared details
about Bachelor and Master degrees in Hotel and Restaurant Management as well as their vocational courses in the Culinary Arts.
Rachel Davidson (left), General Manager at the Hilton Bangkok Sukhumvit, welcomed print media representatives to a dinner at the hotel’s Scalini Italian Grill. The menu featured new dishes created by Chef Enrique Abilleira (right). Rachel Davidson also spoke about the restaurant’s signature Negroni cocktail, a drink invented in 1919 by an Italian Count. She explained that the DNA of the new-look Scalini restaurant embraces classic Italian cuisine prepared with modern twists by Chef Enrique and his team.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
37
Member news
Elevating lift designs to new heights
E
levating Studio provides innovative consulting for any type of building vertical transport system, both in new building design and asset management. The company supports customers with professional full life cycle vertical transportation consultancy services from early programming stages of the building to the modernisation of existing elevators and escalators. As independent consultants their role is to represent the client, bringing their expertise and experience to support clients with new design and development, modernisation/
upgrades, maintenance audits, safety inspections and certification, manufacturer to client handover inspections, and due diligence. Inspection services also embrace installations, handovers, maintenance audits, health checks, functional tests and traffic performance. Elevating Studio head office is in Singapore with branches in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Sydney and Helsinki. The company employs globally recognised industry specialists with over 150 combined years of experience, having worked with many high-rise and complicated buildings internationally.
Services include inspections and field audits on elevators and escalators based on Lift standards EN81-1 and EN81-20 and Escalator standard EN115-1, together with the applicable Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) codes and standards. All inspectors are fully trained, having completed the Lift and Escalators Course for Engineers, and are certified by the Liftinstituut of Netherlands. The company is also a member of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, being at the forefront of the latest developing elevator technology and design.
Chatrium Hotels & Residences has donated 50 LED TV sets to Wat Nuan Noradit School. The presentation was made by led by Panpath Kanlaya (right(), Corporate Director of Sales & Marketing Travel Trade. Receiving the television sets on behalf of the school were Sanga Kaewkhumsaen - Assistant Director of Wat Nuan Noradit School (left), and Police General Chaiyong Keeratikachorn - President of the Alumni Association of Wat Nuan Noradit School and former Assistant National Police chief. The donation was part of the Chatrium CSR programme to support local communities.
38
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Member news
EVA links Phuket with Taiwan tourism market
T
aiwan-based carrier EVA Air had given a boost to Phuket’s flagging tourism sector by announcing direct flights from Taoyuan International Airport in 2020. The new direct route means travellers will save at least six hours on transit stops in both directions. Starting 2 April the airline will operate three non-stop daytime weekly flights from the major international airport serving Taipei. Outbound flights depart from Taipei every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 11:05 hrs. with a scheduled ar-
rival time in Phuket of 14.20 hrs. Return flights are scheduled to depart at 15.30hrs. EVA Air operates daily flights be-
tween Taipei and Bangkok and also offers non-stop daily service with three cabin classes from Thailand’s capital to London Heathrow using Boeing 777ER equipment.
CBRE Thailand has donated THB 150,000 to Priest Hospital, Fund for Elderly by Thai Red Cross Society, and the Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Foundation. The funds were raised from a virtual charity run and auction activities during the company’s ‘Wellness Week’ – an annual philanthropic event by CBRE employees in Asia Pacific to support local communities and the environment through a series of wellbeing initiatives.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
39
Member news
Thai business leaders upbeat on growth forecasts
T
hai businesses are among the most upbeat globally about their future prospects, with 92 percent anticipating growth in the next five years, according to a new HSBC survey.
motivation for implementing sustainable practices, significantly ahead of their global (21%) and Asian (24%) peers. This pressure to transform sustainable practices is coming from all areas – consumers (cited by 41%), governments (40%) and investors (39%) in particular.
Some 39 percent are anticipating strong growth – of 15 percent or higher – over this time period, compared to 26 percent globally. For 71 percent of Thai companies surveyed, the common theme over the next five years is major business transformation – centreing upon investment in sustainability and technology. HSBC’s latest ‘Navigator: Now, next and how’ report surveyed business leaders from over 9,100 companies across 35 markets globally to gauge business sentiment and growth prospects. More than 3,200 businesses in 12 Asian markets took part. For Thailand, the research reveals that business growth in the year ahead will be driven by improvements to productivity (cited by 41% of Thai businesses) as well as better access to suppliers and raw materials (40%). Investments in technology (38%) and in logistics and transportation (38%) were also expected to bolster business growth. In terms of international trading partners, China, Japan and the USA remain the top three markets Thai businesses will target in the next three to five years with Singapore and Australia also growing in importance. Fast-growing Thai firms are also eyeing opportunities to expand into markets further afield such as Canada, Austria and France. Global headwinds spark creativity and collaboration Thai businesses trading internationally are also feeling the impact of a number of headwinds. Almost nine in 10 (88%) 40
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Suphin Mechuchep
firms surveyed said they were affected by geopolitical uncertainty; with 35 percent citing a ‘strong impact’ on their operations, compared with 25 percent worldwide. To navigate this uncertainty, many Thai firms are getting creative: turning to online sales channels and developing new partnerships were some of the tactics employed. Rising protectionism is also strongly and increasingly felt by Thai businesses (84%), but the majority of companies feel that they have gained more than lost because of the lower cost of doing business that increases their competitiveness. Companies are addressing the negative impact of protectionism through cost reduction, entering joint ventures with local companies and again by shifting their focus to digital sales channels. Sustainability: essential to long-term viability Sustainability is at the core of Thai businesses’ transformation agendas with 35 percent citing ‘essential to long-term viability’ as the primary
In the next five years the main challenges Thai businesses will face in improving their sustainability practices are a lack of knowledge (41%), a lack of support and being unable to adopt new technologies as a result (both 36%). The impact of Thailand’s 4.0 economic model – which aims to shift low-cost manufacturing towards higher valueadded activities – is also being felt. Looking ahead to the next five years, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are the platforms most often cited as having a transformational impact – with 43 percent of Thai firms (compared to 25% of global peers) highlighting its importance. AI is expected to generate improvements in the quality of products and services, as well as boost productivity. Krisda Phatcharoen, Head of Commercial Banking at HSBC Thailand, said, “Navigator tells us that businesses in Thailand are among the most bullish in the world, despite some external headwinds. We are seeing Thai firms adapt swiftly and creatively to the pace of global change through a number of tactics, from driving efficiencies to expanding digital sales channels and developing new partnerships. “High growth businesses have something in common. They are embracing sustainability and prioritising technological transformation to drive greater productivity in the years ahead.”
MORE THAN JUST FACTS & FIGURES AUDIT I ACCOUNTING I ADVISORY I TAX I LAW
89 COUNTRIES
#INDEPENDENCE #INTEGRITY #TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE #RESPONSIBILITY #STEWARDSHIP www.mazars.co.th www.mazars.com
40,000* PROFESSIONALS ONE TEAM
Mazars in Thailand 12th Floor, Empire Tower 1 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120 Tel: (662) 670 1100
Contacts: Rob Hurenkamp Managing Partner rob.hurenkamp@mazars.co.th Blake Dimsdale Audit Partner blake.dimsdale@mazars.co.th
*24,000 professionals in Mazars’ integrated partnership and 16,000 professionals via the Mazars North America Alliance. The Link
Final Issue | 2019
41
Member news
New Executive Chef at Park Hyatt Bangkok
C
hristian Hinckley has been appointed Executive Chef at the Park Hyatt Bangkok.
Christian, a talented chef with a passion for culinary adventure and a commitment to sustainable business practices, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this iconic property at the heart of the city. Since graduating in 2000 from the Dubrulle Hotel and Culinary Institute of Canada his career path has covered thousands of miles, undertaking challenges in the USA, Europe and several countries in Asia. Christian’s eye for creativity, his desire to use local produce and his unwavering commitment to sustainability in every outlet at the hotel is matched only by his desire to provide guests with personalised, enjoyable and memorable dining experiences. “A luxurious five-star experience means providing services that are tailor-made to the desires of our guests,” said Christian. “Using quality Thai produce and ingredients is an integral part of our commitment to sustainability. It does not make sense to import foodstuffs when Thailand enjoys such an abundance of fruit, vegetables and spices. Naturally, we strive at all times to source produce from certified sustainable suppliers.” Menus at the Park Hyatt Bangkok now reflect the modern, healthconscious attitude of many guests. Breakfasts, for example, include more plant-based, halal and glutenfree options. Behind the scenes, the drive continues to eliminate single-use plastic and Christian is pursuing with vigour 42
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Christian Hinckley
a policy to use biodegradable alternatives. Christian is looking forward to an exciting series of guest chef collaborations in 2020. “Diners love to experience the results of dynamic partnerships in the kitchen between chefs that combine their knowledge and experience to create one-off menus,“ he explained. “These collaborations add tremendous interest and value to our luxury dining experiences.“ Earlier in his career, Christian played a key role as sous chef at several leading restaurants in the USA including Seattle’s award-winning French restaurant Café Campagne (20012005) and the acclaimed Michelin 3 star Joël Robuchon at The Mansion in Las Vegas (2005-2007). As Joël Robuchon’s Sous Chef this was Christian’s first exposure to the world of fine dining, cooking for the sophisticated palates of the restaurant’s most discerning clientele.
His next role, in the Kingdom of Bhutan, presented different challenges. As Executive Chef for restaurants at Amankora’s five lodges, he was cooking in remote, high-altitude conditions. “We had to be creative and adaptable when accommodating the special requests of our guests and that’s why I created an organic garden to plant and cultivate seasonal produce in a sustainable, eco-friendly manner,” said Christian. He also worked in senior capacities with Aman Resorts at properties in Indonesia and Turkey before being promoted to Regional Executive Chef for five exclusive Aman properties in Bhutan, India and Sri Lanka. Christian’s most recent role was at the Capella Hotel on Singapore’s Sentosa Island before returning to Bangkok, a city where he served in 2013/14 as Executive Chef and General Manager at the restaurant Napa on 26.
Member news
Dusit deal expands China portfolio D usit International, represented in China by Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, has signed a management agreement operate two new properties in the Anyuan County of Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province, China.
a Chinese restaurant, gym, natural hot springs pools, Devarana Spa and a 1,000 sq m pillarless ballroom with adjoining meeting rooms. Located next to the Dusit Thani resort, the Dusit Princess Serviced Residence will comprise 260 apartments, restaurant and lobby lounge.
The agreement is with Jiangxi Hot Spring River Hotel Operation and Management Company. Operating under Dusit International’s upper-upscale Dusit Thani and upper-midscale Dusit Princess brands respectively, both properties will be located near the entrance of Mount Sanbai National Park, approximately 90 minutes by car from Ganzhou Huangjin Airport and 30 minutes from the high-speed train station. This scenic area is renowned for its abundant forests, stunning hiking trails, beautiful hot springs and well-preserved Hakka houses with history dating back to the 17th century.
Lim Boon Kwee
Designed to cater to corporate and leisure travellers alike, the deluxe Dusit Thani Hot Springs Resort will comprise 500 guest rooms and suites set within a luxurious hot springs experience. Facilities and amenities will include an all-day dining restaurant,
“We are delighted and honoured that Jiangxi Hot Spring River Hotel Operation and Management Co., Ltd has chosen Dusit to manage their unique properties and bring our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to Anyuan County,” said Lim Boon Kwee, COO at Dusit International. “We look forward to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests while further cementing our reputation for hospitality excellence in Jiangxi province and beyond.” Dusit International currently operates nine hotels in China and has 26 properties in the pipeline.
Bangkok retains top spot for international travel T he Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index for 2019 again lists Bangkok as the most popular city for international travellers. London is pushed into third place by Paris in the latest league table. The Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index, published annually since 2009, has shown a remarkable rise in international travel.
Over this period there has been significant movement in visitors to smaller cities but the top 10 most popular destinations has remained largely consistent.
Bangkok, Paris and London have been the top three cities since 2010, with Bangkok taking top spot in six of the past seven years. New York is another
top 10 stalwart with 13.6 million overnight visitors recorded in 2019. Cities in the Asia Pacific region have witnessed the largest increase in international visitors since 2009. Europe saw the second highest growth, spurred on by substantial growth in overseas travel by mainland Chinese tourists. The Link
Final Issue | 2019
43
Dataconsult
Chamber Events
By the Numbers
Chris Bruton Director, Dataconsult Ltd. In a world where chaos and street demonstrations reign, the Thailand scene appears unusually serene and stable. Students are attending classes and workers report for duty at offices and factories. Face-masks are not uncommon, but the objective is to protect against pollution rather than tear-gas. While political harmony does not always prevail, parliamentarians are not intent upon smashing the furniture or burning down any National Assembly buildings. These favourable circumstances ought to be matched by strong economic performance and growth. But relative calmness is also matched by economic passivity and gradually easing GDP performance. From growth rates of 4.0% (2017), and 4.1% (2018), we now anticipate at best 2.8% for 2019. The optimistic Fiscal Policy Office forecasts a range of 2.8% to 3.8% for 2020, but our own more sanguine outlook for 2020 anticipates more like 2.4% unless we experience a sudden upturn in export performance during the coming year which currently appears unlikely. An important factor continues to be tourism arrivals, which may just miss a 40 million target in 2019 but should be surpassed in 2020. However the critical factor will be tourist spending, which may be conservative since so many tourists are now Chinese, formerly big shopping spenders but now potentially more thrifty. Thailand’s challenge remains the Baht exchange rate which continues to hover just about Baht 30 per US$1 as compared with over Baht 35 three years ago. Very little easing of Baht values over the coming year can be envisaged, despite Bank of Thailand efforts with policy rates and market operations. Thailand in a Regional Context Thailand remains ASEAN’s second largest economy, although other countries with higher growth rates are gradually catching up. 44
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Thailand: Key economic performance indicators 2017
2019f
2018 Average
2020f
Range
Average
Range
PROJECTIONS GDP Growth Rate (percent y-o-y)
4.0
4.1
2.8
2.6 to 3.0
3.3
2.8 to 3.8
- Real Private Consumption
3.0
4.6
3.8
3.6 to 4.0
3.5
3.0 to 4.0
- Real Public Consumption
0.1
1.8
2.0
1.8 to 2.2
2.5
2.0 to 3.0
4.1 to 5.1
Real Consumption Growth (percent y-o-y)
Real Investment Growth (percent y-o-y) - Real Private Investment
2.9
3.9
2.7
2.5 to 2.9
4.6
- Real Public Investment
-1.2
3.3
1.4
1.2 to 1.6
6.6
6.1 to 7.1
5.4
4.2
-3.6
-3.8 to -3.4
2.5
2.0 to 3.0
3.0
2.5 to 3.5
Export Volume of Goods and Services (percent y-o-y) Import Volume of Goods and Services (percent y-o-y) Trade Balance (billion U.S. dollar)
6.2
8.6
-3.1
-3.3 to -2.9
32.6
22.4
24.6
24.4 to 24.8
23.6 23.1 to 24.1
- Export Value of Goods in U.S. dollar (percent y-o-y)
9.5
7.5
-2.5
-2.7 to -2.3
2.6
2.1 to 3.1
- Import Value of Goods in U.S. dollar (percent y-o-y)
13.2
13.7
-3.8
-4.0 to -3.6
3.4
2.9 to 3.9
44.1
32.4
33.5
33.3 to 33.7
9.7
6.4
6.2
6.0 to 6.4
5.7
5.2 to 6.2
Headline Inflation (percent y-o-y)
0.7
1.1
0.8
0.6 to 1.0
0.9
0.4 to 1.4
Core Inflation (percent y-o-y)
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.4 to 0.8
0.8
0.3 to 1.3
3.34
2.8 to 8
Current Account (billion U.S. dollar) - Percentage of GDP
32.9 32.4 to 33.4
MAJOR ASSUMPTIONS Exogenous Variables Average Economic Growth of Major Trading Partners (percent y-o-y)
4.0
3.9
3.3
3.1 to 3.6
53.1
69.4
62.7
59.7 to 65.7
Exchange Rate (Baht per U.S. dollar)
33.9
32.3
31.1
30.6 to 31.6
Public Expenditure (Trillion Baht)
3.46
3.60
3.74
3.72 to 3.76
3.96 3.92 to 4.00
Number of foreign tourists (million persons)
35.6
38.3
39.8
39.3 to 40.3
41.5 40.5 to 42.5
Dubai Crude Oil Price (USD/bbl)
61.2 56.2 to 66.2
Policy Variables 30.75
29.75 to 31.75
Source: Fiscal Policy Office, Ministry of Finance: October 28, 2019
In per capita GDP terms, Thailand also maintains a per capita positioning below Singapore, Brunei and Malaysia, but has for some time slipped below China. The main challenge for Thailand is that while its position below China encourages Chinese manufacturers to move Southwards, they are more likely to head for Vietnam, and potentially Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and the Philippines, where labour costs are lower, although only Vietnam can currently rival Thailand’s skill composition. A possibly surprising indicator emerges from the recent World Bank “Ease of Doing Business” report, which elevates Thailand up from 27 worldwide, to 21, out of 190 countries. China is not far behind, at 27, but Vietnam lags at 115 (down from 70), with Cambodia 144 (from 138), Laos (154 (no change) and Myanmar a doleful 165 (up from 171).
With all the fuss about visa and work permit rules, 90 day reporting and regular TM30 reports, there is some surprise that Thailand can be considered an easy country in which to do business. But World Banker repose in comfort with none of these inconveniences. In terms of foreign investment inflows, Thailand experienced some revival in 2018, but remained well behind Vietnam, while naturally performing more significantly as an outward investment performer. However, due to its maturity as an investment recipient, investment stocks remain strong and closely behind Indonesia. Hopefully with at least nominally democratic government and a determination to press forward with “Thailand 4.0” and the Eastern Economic Corridor, a brighter future awaits during these US / China trade war times.
Gross Domestic Product at current price (total value) (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country China India United Kingdom Indonesia Thailand Malaysia Singapore Philippines Vietnam Myanmar Cambodia Lao Brunei
(US$ billion)
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
9,635.0 1,856.7 2,755.4 916.6 420.3 327.9 307.6 271.8 170.4 60.5 15.2 12.0
10,534.5 2,039.1 3,036.3 891.1 407.3 342.9 314.9 284.6 185.8 63.3 16.7 13.3
11,226.2 2,103.6 2,897.1 860.7 401.3 301.4 308.0 292.8 191.3 63.2 18.1 14.4
11,221.8 2,289.8 2,669.1 932.1 412.4 301.3 318.1 304.9 201.3 60.5 20.0 15.9
12,062.3 2,652.2 2,640.1 1,015.3 455.3 319.0 338.4 313.6 220.4 61.4 22.2 17.1
13,368.1 2,718.7 2,828.8 1,022.5 504.9 358.6 364.1 330.9 241.3 68.7 24.4 18.1
14,140.2 2,935.6 2,743.6 1,111.7 529.2 365.3 362.8 356.8 261.6 66.0 26.7 19.1
15,269.9 3,202.2 2,716.5 1,204.8 557.3 381.5 369.6 383.5 284.8 72.1 29.0 21.2
16,579.1 3,509.7 2,806.2 1,297.2 590.4 409.5 383.8 415.2 308.6 78.8 31.4 23.1
17,952.1 3,848.0 2,911.1 1,390.2 626.3 438.7 401.2 455.4 334.5 86.0 34.1 25.1
19,407.7 4,223.8 3,025.0 1,489.7 664.8 470.2 420.0 499.6 363.0 93.8 37.0 27.3
20,979.0 4,631.8 3,149.8 1,596.0 700.2 505.2 440.8 548.0 394.9 102.5 40.2 29.7
18.1
17.1
12.9
11.4
12.1
13.6
12.5
12.8
13.1
13.5
13.9
14.3
Gross Domestic Product at constant prices (growth) (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country Cambodia Vietnam Lao Myanmar India China Philippines Indonesia Malaysia Thailand Brunei United Kingdom Singapore
2013 7.4 5.4 8.0 7.9 6.4 7.8 7.1 5.6 4.7 2.7 -2.1 2.0 4.8
2014 7.1 6.0 7.6 8.2 7.4 7.3 6.1 5.0 6.0 1.0 -2.5 2.9 3.9
2015 7.0 6.7 7.3 7.5 8.0 6.9 6.1 4.9 5.0 3.1 -0.4 2.3 2.9
2016 6.9 6.2 7.0 5.2 8.2 6.7 6.9 5.0 4.5 3.4 -2.5 1.8 3.0
2017 7.0 6.8 6.8 6.3 7.2 6.8 6.7 5.1 5.7 4.0 1.3 1.8 3.7
(Percentage change year-on-year)
2018 7.5 7.1 6.3 6.8 6.8 6.6 6.2 5.2 4.7 4.1 0.1 1.4 3.1
2019 7.0 6.5 6.4 6.2 6.1 6.1 5.7 5.0 4.5 2.9 1.8 1.2 0.5
2020 6.8 6.5 6.5 6.3 7.0 5.8 6.2 5.1 4.4 3.0 4.7 1.4 1.0
2021 6.7 6.5 6.7 6.0 7.4 5.9 6.4 5.2 4.9 3.5 3.6 1.5 1.6
2022 6.6 6.5 6.8 6.1 7.4 5.7 6.5 5.3 4.8 3.6 3.5 1.5 2.2
2018 64,578.8 42,579.8 30,668.4 11,072.4 9,580.2 7,448.1 3,870.6 3,104.2 2,551.1 2,566.0 2,037.7 1,504.3 1,299.7
2019 63,987.1 41,030.2 27,871.5 11,136.8 10,098.9 7,792.0 4,163.8 3,294.5 2,739.8 2,670.2 2,171.6 1,620.6 1,244.7
2020 64,829.2 40,391.8 28,396.7 11,484.5 10,872.5 8,193.8 4,464.6 3,484.9 2,954.6 2,919.1 2,338.1 1,730.9 1,350.8
2021 66,950.0 41,504.9 28,714.7 12,172.2 11,773.1 8,669.0 4,755.7 3,714.0 3,171.5 3,131.7 2,529.3 1,848.2 1,467.3
2022 69,597.9 42,842.5 29,303.1 12,875.4 12,718.8 9,187.8 5,042.5 4,008.8 3,406.1 3,357.8 2,737.1 1,975.8 1,591.5
2018 5.9 3.5 3.4 3.2 2.0 5.2 2.1 2.4 2.5 1.0 1.1 0.4 0.1
2019 7.8 3.6 3.4 3.2 3.1 2.5 2.3 2.2 1.8 1.0 0.9 0.7 0.1
2020 6.7 3.8 4.1 3.3 3.3 2.3 2.4 2.5 1.9 2.1 0.9 1.0 0.2
2021 6.5 3.8 4.1 3.1 3.1 3.1 2.8 2.7 2.0 2.2 1.2 1.3 0.2
2022 5.9 3.9 4.0 3.1 3.1 3.0 2.9 3.0 2.0 2.2 1.6 1.4 0.2
2017 109.5 87.1 67.8 55.8 54.4 46.8 58.2 41.9 39.9 35.2 29.4 30.0 2.8
2018 113.6 86.8 68.1 57.2 55.6 50.6 55.6 42.1 38.9 38.2 30.1 28.6 2.6
2019 114.1 85.6 69.0 58.0 56.3 55.6 54.3 42.4 39.3 38.7 30.3 29.6 2.8
2020 114.6 84.8 68.5 56.2 56.5 60.9 53.3 43.0 39.3 38.7 30.0 30.1 2.7
2021 115.1 84.6 67.7 55.5 56.0 65.4 52.5 43.8 38.8 38.9 29.9 30.6 2.7
2022 115.5 84.3 66.9 54.7 55.5 69.5 51.6 44.3 38.3 39.0 29.8 31.3 2.6
2017 16.4 16.4 9.7 2.8 2.1 1.6 -0.7 -1.8 -1.6 -3.3 -6.5 -10.6 -7.9
2018 17.9 7.9 6.4 2.1 2.4 0.4 -2.6 -2.1 -3.0 -3.9 -4.2 -12.0 -11.3
2019 16.5 8.5 6.0 3.1 2.2 1.0 -2.0 -2.0 -2.9 -3.5 -4.8 -12.1 -12.5
2020 16.6 12.0 5.4 1.9 1.9 0.9 -2.3 -2.3 -2.7 -3.7 -4.9 -12.0 -12.3
2021 16.3 13.8 4.9 1.9 1.7 0.8 -2.2 -2.3 -2.7 -3.7 -4.6 -11.1 -11.6
2022 15.9 15.9 4.4 1.7 1.4 0.6 -2.1 -2.4 -2.6 -3.7 -4.7 -10.8 -11.0
Gross Domestic Product per capita (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country Singapore United Kingdom Brunei Malaysia China Thailand Indonesia Philippines Vietnam Lao India Cambodia Myanmar
2013 56,967.4 42,981.3 44,860.4 10,851.7 7,080.8 6,296.2 3,684.0 2,768.5 1,898.9 1,830.5 1,485.6 1,013.4 1,187.5
2014 57,564.8 47,003.9 41,947.2 11,165.3 7,701.7 6,079.7 3,533.6 2,849.3 2,047.4 1,998.0 1,610.4 1,093.8 1,230.5
2015 55,645.6 44,494.9 31,355.7 9,663.1 8,166.8 5,967.7 3,367.7 2,882.8 2,085.7 2,130.6 1,639.7 1,165.1 1,219.5
2016 56,722.3 40,657.9 27,318.1 9,523.3 8,115.8 6,113.4 3,605.7 2,953.3 2,172.0 2,324.9 1,761.6 1,271.0 1,156.9
2017 60,296.8 39,976.8 28,236.8 9,960.3 8,677.4 6,730.6 3,884.7 2,989.1 2,353.4 2,454.9 2,014.0 1,385.9 1,166.0
2013 5.8 6.6 9.4 6.4 6.4 2.6 2.6 3.0 2.6 2.1 2.2 2.4 0.4
2014 5.1 4.1 5.8 6.4 4.1 3.6 2.0 3.9 1.5 3.1 1.9 1.0 -0.2
2015 7.3 0.6 4.9 6.4 1.3 0.7 1.4 1.2 0.0 2.1 -0.9 -0.5 -0.4
2016 9.1 2.7 4.5 3.5 1.8 1.3 2.0 3.0 0.7 2.1 0.2 -0.5 -0.7
2017 4.6 3.5 3.6 3.8 0.7 2.9 1.6 2.9 2.7 3.8 0.7 0.6 -0.2
2013 98.2 85.2 67.4 49.5 55.7 37.0 51.7 42.2 45.7 43.4 24.8 31.7 2.2
2014 97.8 87.0 66.8 53.5 55.4 39.9 54.7 43.3 42.1 37.6 24.7 31.9 3.2
2015 102.3 87.9 68.8 53.1 57.0 41.1 57.1 42.6 41.5 37.1 27.0 31.2 3.0
2016 106.9 87.9 67.7 54.2 55.8 44.2 59.7 41.8 39.0 39.8 28.0 29.1 3.0
2013 15.7 20.9 -2.1 3.4 4.5 1.5 4.2 -1.7 -3.2 -5.1 -0.6 -26.5 -8.4
2014 18.0 31.9 2.9 4.3 4.9 2.2 3.8 -1.3 -3.1 -4.9 -4.2 -23.3 -8.5
2015 17.2 16.7 6.9 3.0 -0.1 2.7 2.5 -1.1 -2.0 -4.9 -3.1 -22.4 -8.7
2016 17.5 12.9 10.5 2.4 2.9 1.8 -0.4 -0.6 -1.8 -5.2 -4.0 -11.0 -8.4
2024 75,631.9 45,934.9 30,413.9 14,468.3 14,811.8 10,257.2 5,666.8 4,673.8 3,952.1 3,856.5 3,209.7 2,259.8 1,875.2
2023 5.5 4.0 4.0 3.0 3.1 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.3 1.8 1.4 0.2
2024 5.5 4.0 4.0 3.0 3.1 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.3 2.0 1.5 0.2
(Percentage of GDP)
Current Account Balance (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country Singapore Brunei Thailand Malaysia Vietnam China Philippines India Indonesia United Kingdom Myanmar Lao Cambodia
2023 72,466.2 44,311.9 29,827.6 13,629.3 13,723.7 9,744.2 5,346.1 4,328.9 3,664.2 3,599.2 2,965.5 2,113.7 1,726.1
(Percentage change year-on-year)
General Government Gross Debt (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country Singapore United Kingdom India Lao Malaysia China Vietnam Thailand Philippines Myanmar Indonesia Cambodia Brunei
2024 6.5 6.5 6.8 6.5 7.3 5.5 6.5 5.3 4.9 3.6 2.1 1.5 2.5
(Current prices US$)
Inflation: average consumer prices (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country Myanmar Vietnam India Indonesia Lao Philippines China Cambodia United Kingdom Malaysia Thailand Singapore Brunei
2023 6.6 6.5 6.8 6.3 7.4 5.6 6.5 5.3 4.8 3.6 2.4 1.5 2.4
2023 116.0 83.8 66.2 53.9 54.9 73.2 50.5 44.6 37.8 39.1 29.7 32.6 2.6
2024 116.5 83.3 65.6 53.3 54.3 76.6 49.4 45.0 37.4 39.1 29.6 33.7 2.5
(Percentage of GDP)
The Link
2023 15.3 17.6 3.9 1.3 1.2 0.5 -2.0 -2.4 -2.6 -3.7 -4.7 -10.9 -10.1
Final Issue | 2019
2024 15.0 19.8 3.7 0.9 1.0 0.4 -1.9 -2.5 -2.5 -3.7 -4.6 -10.9 -8.8
45
Population (countries ranked by 2019 size) Country
(Million persons)
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
China
1,360.7
1,367.8
1,374.6
1,382.7
1,390.1
1,395.4
1,400.2
1,404.5
1,408.2
1,411.5
1,414.2
1,416.4
India
1,249.8
1,266.3
1,282.9
1,299.8
1,316.9
1,334.2
1,351.8
1,369.6
1,387.6
1,405.8
1,424.3
1,443.1
Indonesia
248.8
252.2
255.6
258.5
261.4
264.2
267.0
269.9
272.8
275.7
278.7
281.6
Philippines
98.2
99.9
101.6
103.2
104.9
106.6
108.3
110.0
111.8
113.6
115.4
117.3
Vietnam
89.8
90.7
91.7
92.7
93.6
94.6
95.5
96.4
97.3
98.2
99.1
99.9
Thailand
66.8
67.0
67.2
67.5
67.7
67.8
67.9
68.0
68.1
68.2
68.2
68.3
Myanmar
51.0
51.4
51.8
52.3
52.6
52.8
53.0
53.4
53.7
54.1
54.4
54.7
Cambodia
15.0
15.3
15.5
15.8
16.0
16.3
16.5
16.7
17.0
17.2
17.5
17.8
Malaysia
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
7.0
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
Lao
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
7.0
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
Singapore
5.4
5.5
5.5
5.6
5.6
5.6
5.7
5.7
5.7
5.8
5.8
5.8
Brunei
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
64.1
64.6
65.1
65.6
66.0
66.4
66.9
67.3
67.6
67.9
68.3
68.6
United Kingdom
Source: World Economic Outlook Database, October 2019
World Bank: Ease of Doing Business Survey 2020 Economy
Ease of Doing Business Rank 2018
Starting a Business
(Ranking based on 190 countries)
Dealing with Construction Permits
Getting Electricity
Registering Property
Protecting Minority Investors
Getting Credit
Trading Across Borders
Paying Taxes
Enforcing Contracts
Resolving Insolvency
2019
Singapore
2
2
4
5
19
21
37
3
7
47
1
27
United Kingdom
9
8
18
23
8
41
37
7
27
33
34
14
Malaysia
15
12
126
2
4
33
37
2
80
49
35
40
Thailand
27
21
47
34
6
67
48
3
68
62
37
24
China
46
31
27
33
12
28
80
28
105
56
5
51
India
77
63
136
27
22
154
25
13
115
68
163
52
Brunei
55
66
16
54
31
144
1
128
90
149
66
59
Vietnam
69
70
115
25
27
64
25
97
109
104
68
122
Indonesia
73
73
140
110
33
106
48
37
81
116
139
38
Philippines
124
95
171
85
32
120
132
72
95
113
152
65
Cambodia
138
144
187
178
146
129
25
128
138
118
182
82
Lao PDR
154
154
181
99
144
88
80
179
157
78
161
168
Myanmar
171
165
70
46
148
125
181
176
129
168
187
164
Source: World Bank Group, 2019
Foreign Direct Investment Inflows 2013- 2018 (Million US Dollars) Foreign Direct Investment Outflows 2013 - 2018 (Million US Dollars) Country
FDI inflows 2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
118,181 56,672 51,676
129,406 73,287 24,690
114,276 59,700 39,186
116,768 73,863 196,132
144,177 75,723 101,238
148,694 77,646 64,487
Indonesia
18,817
21,811
16,641
3,921
20,579
Vietnam
8,900
9,200
11,800
12,600
14,100
Thailand
15,493
4,809
5,624
1,815
Malaysia Philippines
12,115 2,280
10,877 5,285
10,082 4,447
SE Asia total Singapore United Kingdom
Myanmar
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
SE Asia total United Kingdom Singapore
81,903 40,486 45,279
89,050 -151,286 52,477
68,980 -66,821 45,223
50,085 -22,516 39,782
70,832 117,544 43,696
69,601 49,880 37,143
21,980
Thailand
11,679
5,575
1,687
12,367
17,064
17,714
15,500
Indonesia
6,647
7,077
5,937
-12,215
2,077
8,139
6,478
10,493
Malaysia
14,107
16,369
10,546
8,011
5,638
5,280
11,336 6,915
9,399 8,704
8,091 6,456
2,189 1,956
6,299 1,150
4,347 1,100
1,032 1,000
1,752 480
602 598 124
Philippines Vietnam
584
946
2,824
2,989
4,341
3,554
Cambodia
2,068
1,853
1,823
2,476
2,788
3,103
Laos
Laos
427
721
1,119
997
1,599
1,320
Timor-Leste
Brunei
776
568
173
-150
460
504
50
49
43
5
7
48
Cambodia
Timor-Leste
FDI outflows
Country
62
82
88
79
115
-29
7
40
15
10
-
13
13
13
13
-
-
Brunei
-
-
-
-
-
-
Myanmar
-
-
-
-
-
-
Source: UNCTAD, World Investment Report 2019
Foreign Direct Investment Stocks: inward and outward ( 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018) Southeast Asia FDI Inward Stock
Country
(Million US Dollars)
FDI Outward Stock
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
SE Asia total
1,687,452
1,704,891
1,872,239
2,162,289
2,381,432
845,669
913,349
1,012,808
1,204,190
1,397,480
United Kingdom Singapore Indonesia Thailand Malaysia Vietnam Philippines Myanmar Cambodia Laos Brunei
1,662,858 912,355 253,082 199,311 133,767 90,991 57,093 17,652 13,035 3,630 6,219
1,457,408 978,411 224,843 175,442 117,644 102,791 59,303 20,476 14,739 4,850 6,061
1,196,520 1,096,320 234,961 188,651 121,621 115,391 64,249 22,666 16,656 5,639 5,739
1,563,867 1,284,929 248,510 219,368 139,540 129,491 78,788 27,806 20,794 6,560 6,162
1,890,384 1,481,033 226,335 222,733 152,510 144,991 82,997 31,360 23,741 8,665 6,702
1,584,147 576,396 24,052 65,769 135,685 7,490 35,603 484 134
1,538,133 625,259 30,171 68,058 136,892 8,590 41,100 531 16 2645
1,443,936 682,404 58,890 85,636 126,937 9,978 45,377 652 19 2,803
1,531,683 841,402 65,871 107,298 128,517 10,518 47,824 911 188 1,550
1,696,529 1,021,124 72,279 121,358 118,886 10,668 51,902 993 159 -
316
332
346
339
365
86
86
112
112
112
Timor-Leste
Source: UNCTAD, World Investment Report 2018
46
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
47
Chamber Events
King Power Thailand International Business Awards Huge congratulations to all the winners of the Thailand International Business Awards (TIBA) held on Thursday 3rd October at Amari Watergate. A fabulous night was had by all who attended the event which attracted an extremely high quality of entries. TIBA serves as platform to present Thailand’s most successful and dynamic businesses and entrepreneurs.
Thank you to our sponsors. 48
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Chamber Events
Ploenchit Fair The British Community came together once more to help the needy in Thailand as Ploenchit Fair returned to Bangkok Patana School on Saturday 30th November. This year the Grand Raffle organised by BCCT raised THB 540,000. Big thanks to all prize donors and supporters and the BCCT office team, board directors and friends who ran the Grand Raffle stall. Finally, many thanks to all those that purchase raffle tickets.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
49
Chamber Events
BCCT Annual Christmas Lunch On Thursday 12th December at The Landmark Bangkok, members and guests celebrated together at the BCCT Annual Christmas Lunch featuring a live band led by Senator Kitti Wasinondh, much fun and games and excellent food & drink. Thank you to all our generous sponsors for their great support and to those who attended.
Thank you to our sponsors. 50
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Chamber Events
BCCT/AMCHAM/AustCham Presentation (Trade Competition Act)
BCCT One-Day Workshop (How to Communicate with Confidence)
On Tuesday 24th September, BCCT in collaboration with AMCHAM and AustCham held a legal evening briefing on The New Merger Provisions in the Trade Competition Act by Ian McEwin, Competition Consulting Asia.
On Tuesday 1st October, BCCT held a One-Day Workshop on How to Communicate with Confidence. Facilitator Neil Stoneham coached and shared techniques when communicating in professional environment.
Ian shared his insightful knowledge on the amended Trade Competition Act (2017) that imposed substantial merger notification obligations and how businesses contemplating mergers or acquisitions should be aware of all relevant competition law markets involved in the transaction.
Throughout the workshop, participants got an opportunity to put what they learned into practice. The activities were fun but with some serious learning behind them.
BCCT Multi-Chamber Phuket Briefing & Networking
BCCT T3 Business Networking
On Thursday 10 October at Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, John Casella and Chutinun Wannapirun of PKF Thailand updated BCCT members on changes on Thai Labour Law, Visas and Work Permits. After the briefing, members and guests enjoyed great food & drinks while networking.
BCCT T3 Business Networking on Thursday 17 October at 204 Bistro was a great success. Some 100 guests enjoyed fantastic food & drinks while networking. Massive thanks to Swissotel Bangkok Ratchada for being an amazing host as always.
The event could not have been possible without venue/food sponsor: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, corporate sponsor Budget Car & Truck Rental, media sponsor Phuket News & Window on Phuket and the support from our participating chambers: AustCham, Cancham, EABC, German, Netherlands and Singapore.
Members and guests mingle at the always popular T3 event.
Thank you to our sponsors.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
51
Chamber Events
BCCT Half-Day Workshop (Market Research)
BCCT DIT Northern Powerhouse Business Networking Evening
BCCT organised a Members Open Evening on Wednesday 14th August at St. Regis. This event gave members an opportunity to share their ideas and opinions on how BCCT can further collaborate and assist members to enhance their business opportunities in Thailand.
BCCT, The Department for International Trade North West England and Northern Powerhouse gathered at a Business Networking Evening to meet guests and representatives of the 20 UK companies visiting Thailand on the Northern Powerhouse mission.
The evening was facilitated by BCCT Board of Directors – Pinyapa Somphong, Andrew McBean, Stephen Frost and Nick Smart, dividing participants into four group discussions – Membership Benefits, Events, Groups/Committees and Advocacy. A summary of Online Annual Survey was presented by BCCT YP Committee Kieran Taylor.
This event took place on Monday 28th October at the Landmark Bangkok.
APRIL presents BCCT Young Professionals 2019 Charity Networking
BCCT Multi-Chamber Phuket Briefing & Networking
On Thursday 14 November at Lancaster Bar, Lancaster Bangkok , BCCT Young Professionals organised 2019 Charity Networking to raise fund to support Art for Cancer by Ireal, an organisation that helps to raise Cancer Awareness and create activities to help cancer patients and their families through arts and crafts.
The last Phuket event of 2019 on Thursday 14 November at Dream Beach Club was a success. Victor Smith presented on Avoiding Court Disputes with great success. After the briefing members and guests enjoyed networking with great food & drinks. Our thanks to Victor for sharing your insight.
Thank you to our generous sponsors; APRIL International, Lancaster Bangkok, Serenity Wines, Tellus Systems, PKF Thailand, ManpowerGroup, Evolution Wellness, Jamie’s Italian Bangkok and Banyan Tree Bangkok and all our guests who participated at the event and help us raising fund that we managed to give over 75,000 THB. to Art for Cancer by Ireal for their causes. To help support their activities and funding on Cancer Researches visit https://artforcancerbyireal.com/
This event could not have been possible without the support of venue/food sponsor Dream Beach Club, cash sponsor Budget Car and media sponsor Phuket News/ Window on Phuket.
Thank you to our sponsors.
52
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Chamber Events
BCCT T3 Business Networking
BCCT Legal Briefing
On Thursday 21 November, over 170 members and guests gathered & enjoyed excellent food & drinks at the last T3 of 2019 at OPEN restaurant. Big thanks to DoubleTree by Hilton Ploenchit for hosting this excellent evening and Mazars & Shrewsbury International School for their continued support. We look forward to seeing you all again at the next T3 in January at JW Marriott.
On Tuesday 26 November BCCT’s Legal Committee held a briefing on the new property tax which will come into effect in January 2020 and other recent changes in taxation. Special thanks to BCCT Legal Chair Stephen Frost for coordinating and panelists Khun Picharn Sukparangee (Bangkok Global Law), John Casella (PKF), and Damian Norris (Mazars) for taking the time to share their insights.
BCCT Site Visit to U-Tapao Airport
BCCT Multi-Chamber Eastern Seaboard Christmas Networking
BCCT members were welcomed at U-Tapao Airport on Friday 13th December. The purpose of the visit was to receive a presentation on the EEC project, to view the developments already underway with U-Tapao and to better understand future plans.
BCCT, together with partner chambers, hosted the Eastern Seaboard Christmas Networking on Friday 13th December. Guests enjoyed outdoor networking and great food & drinks at the newly renovated Beach Lawn of the Amari Pattaya.
BCCT members made a flying visit to U-Tapao.
Massive thanks to venue/food sponsor Amari Pattaya and sponsors Budget, RSM, April International and New Nordic Group for their generous support.
Thank you to our sponsors.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
53
Comings and Goings The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand welcomes the following new members:
Creative Golf Design Ltd First Floor, Swan Buildings 20 Swan Street, Manchester M4 5JW Tel: +44 7966 538741 Email: mail@creativegolfdesign.com Website: www.creativegolfdesign.com Business Activities - Landscape Architecture - Design & Consultancy for Natural Built Assets - Sports
Affiliates Our sister brand, Creative Golf Video, provides video marketing services for golf facilities. We utilise a combination of ground-shot video, slow-motion shots and aerial footage to highlight the best aspects of the golf course, clubhouse, pro-shop and other facilities. This is interspersed with golfer action shots and testimonial interviews to attract new members and visitors to come and play.
Background Creative Golf Design is an award-winning firm of golf course architects providing design and consultancy services for the remodelling and improvement of established golf courses and the construction of new golf courses and other golfing facilities including driving ranges, adventure putting courses and practice facilities. We use state-of-the-art digital design programs to produce our drawings and high-end computer generated imagery to illustrate our proposals. Products or Services We provide a full design service from the initial concept design and masterplanning stages through to the detailed drawings and contract documents for the construction of the golf course/facilities. For new projects we can help with site selection and developing the best balance of golf facilities, real estate and other elements of the project to suit the client and the local market. We provide inspection visits during construction to ensure that the golf course is built to the highest standards
54
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Ownership Private Senior Management Mr.Kit Sananwathananont Financial Details Convenient credit term in line with your company’s payment timeline available.
Ownership Ken Moodie is the sole owner and Director of the company. He is a Member and Past President of the European Institute of Golf Course Architects.
Chamber Representatives
Mr. Ken Moodie - Principal Golf Course Architect
Companies Represented CTM
G.M. Tour and Travel Co., Ltd 11/1 AIA Sathorn Tower, 14th Floor, Room 1403, South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 2838 1555 Fax: +66 28381500-1 Email: kit@gmtour.com Website: www.gmtour.com
King Power International Co.,Ltd. 8 King Power Complex, Rangnam Rd., Thanon-Phayathai, Ratchathewi Bangkok 10400 Tel: +66 (0) 2677-8888 Fax: +66 (0) 2642-7636 Email: contact@kingpower.com Website: www.kingpower.com Business Activities Retail Chamber Representatives
Business Activities Travel and Tourism Chamber Representatives Mr. Kit Sananwathananont - Managing Director Background GM Tour & Travel is a wholesale travel agency (Consolidator) with business arms in offline, online ticketing and fulfilment services along with full service corporate travel (TMC business). Established for 31 years with branches in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Chiang Mai; we issue air tickets along with other products such as hotels, car rentals, airport transfers, trains, travel insurance and visa service. Currently, we are the first and only corporate travel with online booking tools. Products or Services We offer comprehensive travel services for corporate clients, including travel reservations and visa services.
Ms. Chattrabhorn Paijit (Fern) - Section Manager - Overseas Members & Tour Market Dept Background King Power, Thailand’s first and largest duty free retailer. Home to over 1,000 leading brands, King Power carries superb duty free selections ranging from prestigious timepieces, world-renowned designer fashion and accessories, beauty items, leather goods, liquor, tobacco, Thai crafts, silk, food, snacks, souvenirs, gadgets, sportswear and much more. King Power has now become a lifestyle destination where travellers come for duty free offering, recreation, entertainment to elevate travel experiences as well.
Pullman Bangkok King Power 8/2 Rangnam Road, Thanonphayathai Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel: +66 (0) 2680 9999 Fax: +66 (0) 2680 9998 Email: H6323-MK@accor.com Website: www. pullmanbangkokkingpower.com Business Activities - Hotel - Hospitality - Travel and Tourism / Business Services Chamber Representatives
network. Experience award winning and trendsetting bars and restaurants throughout the hotel or relax and take a swim in Bangkok’s largest infinity pool and executive lounge for guest in executive rooms or rejuvenate at the Le Spa. Affiliates Accor Hotels Companies Represented Mr. Jerome Stubert - General Manager Mr.Chatpanu Moungthong - Director of Business Development
Products or Services The 354 rooms and suites are equipped with up to the minute technology to support the cutting-edge lifestyle of today’s modern business and leisure travelers. Fully equipped with the latest IT equipment, flat screen smart TV and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi mobile
Senior Management Ms. Poonnapha Tritanachart, Director of Operations Thailand Ms. Tankorn Somprasong, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing
Ownership King Power International Group Senior Management Mr. Jerome Stubert - General Manager Mr.Chatpanu Moungthong - Director of Business Development
Mr. Jerome Stubert - General Manager Mr. Chatpanu Moungthong - Director of Business Development Background Pullman Bangkok King Power is a lifestyle hotel for a truly ‘resort in the city’ experience, inspired by ‘Bleisure’ concept. This Bangkok City Hotel is ideally located for business or leisure travelers, only moments away from Victory Monument BTS Skytrain Station and within easy reach of the Airport Rail Link and take advantage of the nearby King Power Duty Free Complex for a great shopping experience. Our cutting-edge hotel in Bangkok provides guests an exceptional blend of elegance and comfort complete with gracious Thai hospitality. Using Pullman Bangkok King Power as your base, we are your gateway to finding perfect experiences in the City of Angels. A hotel in Bangkok that matches the lifestyle of new generation of connected travelers. With its new concept of ‘Our World is Your Playground’, blending efficiency with enjoyment. Pullman Bangkok King Power is designed to be whatever you need it to be.
Products or Services - Red Planet Hotels in Thailand - Red Planet Hotels in Japan - Red Planet Hotels in Philippines - Red Planet Hotels in Indonesia
RM Education Ltd 142B Park Drive, Milton Park Abingdon OX14 4SE Tel: +44 8450 700 300 Email: smason@rm.com Website: rmresults.com Chamber Representatives
Red Planet Hotels Five (Thailand) Limited 999/9 The Offices at CentralWorld, Unit 1901, Rama I Road, Pathumwan, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2613 5888 #5825 Email: tankorn@redplanethotels.com Website: www.redplanethotels.com Business Activities - Hotel - Hospitality
Mr. Stuart Mason - Head of Global Sales Background RM Results is a part of RM Plc, a leading supplier of technology and resources to the education sector. Since 1973, RM plc is helping our customers deliver the world’s education.
Chamber Representatives
Ms. Poonnapha Tritanachart - Director of Operations Thailand Ms. Tankorn Somprasong - Regional Director of Sales & Marketing Background Red Planet Hotels Limited (RPHL) was founded in 2010 and has quickly established itself as Asia’s largest and fastest-growing hotel company focused on the budget hotel sector. The company owns and operates hotels in the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Japan and plans to continue its expansion across Asia.
RM Results provides assessment services to Awarding Organisations and Government Ministries, both in the UK and with increasing presence internationally. The company is headquartered close to Oxford, UK and has +300 employees across the UK, India, Singapore and Australia. Products or Services RM Results improves the life chances of people worldwide by providing digital assessment solutions that support lifelong learning. The company develops software and supporting services for online assessment: 1. Authoring & Testing – Assessment Master Assessment Master™ is a feature rich and comprehensive online assessment The Link
Final Issue | 2019
55
software solution. Intuitively designed and built for accessibility, this online testing software provides a sophisticated platform to allow flexible assessment from any location across multiple delivery methods.
Chamber Representatives
2. E-marking – RM Assessor RM Assessor enables the marking of any type of assessment, anywhere and on a wide range of devices. RM Assessor is trusted by some of the most prestigious names in assessment and is used by examiners in more than 150 countries, making it the most widely used highstakes exam platform in the world.
Mr. Chris Jones - Chairman Mr. Simon Downes - Managing Director
3. Adaptive comparative judgement with RM Compare RM Compare™ uses proven comparative judgement techniques to facilitate more meaningful and collaborative assessment and feedback, whilst improving attainment and helping to reduce the workload of teachers. RM Compare™ is suitable for organisations all across the educational spectrum: schools, colleges, higher education facilities, professional bodies, and awarding organisations. 4. Results and feedback – FEATS (Feedback Engagement and Tracking) FEATS is an online tool designed to support students to engage with and act upon their assessment feedback.
Asia Media Publishin roup
Background Furniture designers and manufacturers specialising in furniture for the private school sector. we supply over 400 private schools in the UK and believe that many of their ASEAN counterparts can benefit form our design service. We offer product design and manufacture in all facets of schools from boarding and accommodation furniture through to laboratories, CDT and classroom areas. We specialise in learning resource walls and are proud to be the only EU manufacturer of the ‘Harkness’ Table Products or Services Design and manufacture of bespoke furniture for the education sector; project led design and supply Affiliates Furniture Industry Research Association UK British Educational Suppliers Association, Hereford and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Ownership 100% UK privately owned ‘FAMILY’ business Senior Management Mr Chris Jones, Mr Simon Downes, Mr Matt Jones
Witley Jones Furniture Ltd. Beech House, Barracks Road Sandy Lane Industrial Estate Stourport-on-Severn Worcestershire DY13 9QA Tel: +44 1299828888 Fax: +44 1299828989 Email: chris@witleyjones.com Website: www.witleyjones.com Business Activities Manufacturing Education Consultancy & Engineering
56
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Bankers NatWest Financial Details £3M annual turnover in UK
Asia Media Publishing Group Park Ventures Ecoplex Level 18, Unit 1802, 57 Wireless Road, Pathumwan Bangkok 10300 338/12 Moo.12 Pratumnak rd., Nongprue, Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 0922840666 Email: mk@asia-mpg.com Website: www.asia-mpg.com Business Activities Media / Advertising & PR Marketing Services Public Relations Chamber Representatives Mr. Markus Kreth - CEO Background Founded by Markus Kreth, the Asia Media Publishing Group is one of Thailand’s premier, international, multilingual, multi-media companies, focused on four main areas of expertise: PR & Marketing, Content Creation, Product and Company Launches, Events and SE Asian Market Research. The Asia Media Publishing Group services clients both in Thailand, and companies from all over the world, who wish to make their mark within SE Asia, and the Kingdom of Thailand, in particular. From traditional, solid and effective PR & Marketing, right through to working with (and for) Influencers and Brands utilizing solely digital media, AMPG has also proved itself time and time again at providing the very service to a broad range of clients. Additional services include Market Research, Strategic Planning Solutions, Company and Product Launch Campaigns, and general advertising strategy and media information for companies wishing to penetrate the market through all mediums. Alongside a stellar team of Content Creators, the Asia Media Publishing Group is truly a ‘one-stopshop’ for all your Marketing, Advertising, Branding, and PR needs. The company works closely with all the major Chambers of Commerce and with
many of the International Embassies based in Bangkok, and, in addition to the services mentioned above, AMPG handles all aspects of Media Planning, Event Management, Location Scouting and Talent Casting for commercials and films, as well as providing the full range of services for Pre-Production and Post Production of films and commercials, including storyboarding, script treatments, aerial filming and photography, colour correction and grading, titling and motion graphics - audio mixing and mastering, sound design, soundtracks, jingles, editing and voice over services. With offices in Pattaya and Bangkok, the Asia Media Publishing Group is truly a full-service media company providing international quality services for a very broad range of clients from all disciplines and commerce. Markus Kreth’s 12 years of experience in SE Asia and his extensive knowledge of the media industries in Thailand is very well-founded. He now enjoys a flourishing career as the Founder and CEO of the Asia Media Publishing Group that has quickly developed a reputation for being the most innovative and efficient and completely ‘current’ company in its ability to utilize new media and technology at every turn. Products or Services Advertising Aerial filming Branding Company and Product Launch Campaigns Content Creation Content Creators Copywriting Event Management Films and commercials Influencers Location Scouting Market Research Marketing Media Planning Photography Post Production Public Relations Product and Company Launches Storyboarding Strategic Planning Talent Casting Video Production
A Ta Services 2/51, Thosapol Land Building 4, 11th Floor, Soi Bangna Trat 25, Bangna 3656/49-52 Green tower 16th Floor Rama IV Rd Klongton, Klongtoei Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 2744-3180/ 2168 4900 Fax: +66 2744-3177/ 2168 4999 Email: info@ata-services.com Website: www.ata-services.com Business Activities Business Services Accounting Recruitment Services Chamber Representatives
Mr. Thierry Guillossou - CEO Ms. Siriporn Chiwaraphan - Managing Director Background ATa Services provides adapted solutions for your businesses in Thailand. Whether you are a SMB/SME or a large Enterprise, our company propose tailor-made services. Furthermore, our wide range of services addresses to any business looking to outsource some or all their administration jobs to a professional and cost-effective company. ATa Services provides all the services your business need in one invoice. Administrative and HR burden will never be a problem for you anymore! If you are interested, contact us and we will be pleased to give you a free quote adapted to your needs. Products or Services We provide customized solutions on:
• Recruitment: specialized in recruitment and executive search. • Work Permit and Visa Services: we take care of all paperwork, registration, and immigration. • Accounting and Payroll: taxes, financial reporting. • Virtual Office: register your company in Thailand and enjoy communication services. • Meeting Room: rent a meeting room fully equipped. • Car rental: with or without driver and limousine services. • Paralegal: helping you to set-up your company in Thailand. Affiliates ATA Services Plus: www.ata-servicesplus. com/ • Recruitment • PEO contract ( outsourcing contract staff) • Accounting and Financial • Work Permit & Visa ATa Office Rental: https://www.ata-officerental.com/ • Serviced Offices / Office Rental • Virtual Office • Meeting Room rental ATA Car rental: https://www.ata-carrental.com • Car rental with or without driver • Long term rental • Limousine services
The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam 559 Ratchaprarop Road Makkasan Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel: +66 (0) 2309-9999 Fax: +66 (0) 2309-9010 Email: chavalit.k@berkeleyhotel.co.th Website: www.berkeleypratunam.com Business Activities Hospitality Industry Hotel
• Office Rental: empty or fully furnished. • Contract staffs /PEO Services/ Umbrella Services: payroll and human resources outsourcing.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
57
Chamber Representatives
Mr. Chavalit Kanjanasevee - General Manager of The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam Ms. Paweena Swing - Marketing Communications Manager Background The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam is conveniently located in the heart of Bangkok, Pratunam area. As a most worthwhile place to visit, whether for relaxation or business, you will be truly satisfied with “A Touch of Elegance”, the modern luxurious style of the Berkeley Hotel Pratunam. As a 5-star hotel, you will be offered the best of our cosy and richly elegant environment, with an abundance of things to appreciate, and enjoy our golden location for the nearby popular shopping areas and convenient public transportation. The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam consists of 788 spacious rooms equipped with hotel amenities and WIFI internet in-room. Our function venue is approximately 3,700 sq.m, and considered one of the largest hotel functional spaces in South East Asia offering the very best facilities for organising any kind of event. Our Meeting Venues include a variety of functional for multi-purpose events, such as the pillarless ballroom and an event hall, with a 3,000-guest capacity. Products or Services Hospitality Industry - The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam Affiliates The Prince Palace Hotel
Cambridge Assessment English 54 B.B. Building, #1704, Sukhumvit 21, Klongtoey Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2204 1453 Ext. 104 Email: Kulachanpises.W@ cambridgeenglish.org Website: www.cambridgeenglish.org/ countries/thailand/ Business Activities Education
58
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Chamber Representatives Mr. Weerawat Kulachanpises - Country Manager - Thailand Khun Kelvin Low - Regional Commercial Head, South East Asia & Pacific Background Cambridge Assessment English is a non-profit department of the Cambridge University. We are most widely known for our language assessments and we offer a broad range of expert educational services covering the full spectrum of English teaching, learning and assessment. Our exams are recognized by over 25,000 universities, employers and governments around the world. Our English language tests can open doors to higher education, improve employment opportunities, and because they are globally recognised, can increase candidates’ choices for study or work. We have over 650 staff worldwide – 505 based in the UK and around 145 in our network of 27 offices around the world. Our extended network includes more than 30,000 examiners, 2,800 examination centres, and over 52,000 registered preparation centres. We have the largest dedicated research team of any English language assessment provider, including some of the world’s leading experts in the field of language assessment, dedicated to the development and quality control of our examinations. Products or Services Cambridge English Qualifications are indepth exams that make learning English enjoyable, effective and rewarding. Our unique approach encourages continuous progression with a clear path to improve language skills. We have qualifications for schools, general and higher education, and business. We provide the world’s leading range of qualifications and tests for learners and teachers of English: • Cambridge English Qualifications • Linguaskill • IELTS • Cambridge English Teaching Our qualifications and tests are accepted by over 25,000 organisations worldwide, and provide the English language skills
to communicate and succeed in the real world.
Cleantech Solar 25 Church Street #03-04 Capital Square Three, Singapore 049482 Tel: +66 (0) 9 8909 7935 Email: thailand@cleantechsolar.com Website: www.cleantechsolar.com Chamber Representatives
Mr. Michael Belov - Business Development Director Mr. Thanomsin Chanjira - Senior Business Development Manager Background Thailand Office: Cleantech Solar (Thailand) Limited. 71/408 Moo 4, Lak Hok Pathum Thani 12000 Tel: +66 (0) 9 8909 7935 +66 (0) 8 1566 7256 +66 (0) 9 2630 2839 Products or Services Cleantech Solar is a pan-Asia supplier of renewable energy to corporates, combining the capabilities of a global player without compromising on responsiveness and agility. Headquartered in Asia, Cleantech Solar has established itself with a successful track record of over 160 solar power plants as the leading solar developer in Asia who invests, owns and operates solar projects specializing in the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) sector. Through solar power purchase agreement (PPA) longterm partnerships, Cleantech Solar allows its customers to enjoy clean solar energy at reduced costs without investing any upfront capital, while at the same time helping to meet their sustainability goals.
Corby of Windsor St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LF Email: elaine.tan@corbyofwindsor.com Website: www.corbyofwindsor.com Chamber Representatives Ms. Elaine Tan - Business Development Manager
Lawton Tube Co Ltd. Torrington Avenue, Coventry CV4 9AB Tel: + 00442476466203 Email: rlawton@lawtontubes.co.uk Website: https://www.lawtontubes.co.uk/ Business Activities Construction Refrigeration / Cold Store Medical / Healthcare Chamber Representatives
Products or Services Medical Gas grade copper pipe line systems. Carrying oxygen from plant room to patients bedside. Plumbing copper pipeline systems. Carrying drinking water, oil, commerical gases throughout a building. Airconditioning and refridgeration copper pipeline systems. Carrying gases to cool a skyscraper, villa, office, supermarket. Various engineering applications, ship building, electrical, decorative.
Senior Management Lea Family Board of Directors Confidential - view companies house website for public details Bankers Confidential Financial Details Confidential - view companies house website for public details
Ownership 100% Family owned
Morning Foods Gresty Roads, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6HP Tel: +44 (0)1270213261 Fax: +44 (0)1270500291 Email: s.fotheringham@morningfoods. com Website: www.morningfoods.com & www. mornflake.com
Nano Energy Technologies Limited Cromwell House, Royal Court, Brook Street Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 7AE Tel: +44 7842 772 100 Email: paul@nanoenergytech.com Website: www.nanoenergytech.com Chamber Representatives
Chamber Representatives Mr. Robert Lawton - Business Development Director Background We are the UK’s leading independent manufacturer and distributor of copper tube. Established in 1918, located in Coventry and now run by the 4th generation of the Lawton family. We own two plants(UK); one 60,000sqft warehouse; employ over 100 people and have a current turnover of £150m, supplying 21,000 tons of copper tube annually, enough to circle the world 1.5 times. We form an indispensable link between one of the world’s most versatile metals (copper) and a wide variety of finished goods. Our products have a wide variety of uses including copper tubes and coils for plumbing, heating, refrigeration and air conditioning; electrical bus bars; medical gases installations, i.e. supplying oxygen to patients in hospital; automotive braking circuits (copper brake pipe); the distillation process in whisky production, and a host of other engineering applications. There isn’t much we don’t know about copper tube.
Mrs. Siobhan Fotheringham - Commercial Director – International Retail Mr. Andrew Rutter - Commercial Director Background Morning foods supply oat and bran based cereals to over 89 countried globally. Mornflake is our brand name, we are owned by the Lea Family who have been milling oats for 15 generations and after trading for over 340 years we are reported as the 4th oldest British business. We supply oats, oatmeal, oatbran, granola, muesli, fruit and fibre, bran flakes, porridge pots and chocolate pillows. We can offer private label and business to business 25kg sacks of oats and cereals. Products or Services Cereal manufacturer with 3 BRC AA Graded Mills in the United Kingdom Companies Represented Mornflake, Morning Foods, Hamlyns of Scotland
Mr. Paul Collinson - Director Background Patented nanotechnology product, which tackles the age old problem with internal combustion engines - incomplete combustion. Our product converts more fuel to energy in the combustion process, which improves fuel efficiency. The natural consequence of doing this is less emissions. Our product does not change the composition of the fuel, instead we are simply using the fuel as a delivery system to ensure our product is present during combustion. Suitable for all types of Internal Combustion Engines and all types of fuels.
Ownership Lea Family 100%
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
59
Sectors of use: - Road - Rail - Sea Transport - Power Utility Sector - Mining - High Performance Racing & Sports - Heavy Industry - Military Seasia Leadavation Center Company Limited 2525 Building 2, FYI Center, Room No. 2/301-2/310, 3rd Floor, Rama 4 Road, Klongtoey, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 02-028-9759 Fax: +66 02-028-9762 Email: info@seasiacenter.com Website: www.seasiacenter.com Chamber Representatives
We offer the finest tools and principles through adaptive learning programmes to suit with the contexts and learners from every level and companies from every industry. Our programmes are centred on essential leadership incubation, innovation creation, business approaches, and strategic planning. We incubate learners with a concept of lifelong improvement and learning as well reskilling to stay relevant. We also effectively cultivate learners with a clear path of progress and a proactive willingness to adapt to benefit learners and their firms since rapid changes are common in today’s business contexts. Products or Services • Contextualised Leadership and Innovation Solutions • YourNextU Membership Platform • Assessment Services • Research and Consortium Projects • Learning with Peers, Professional Networks, and a True Lifelong Learning Community • SEAC Learning Facilities
Formerly known as APMGroup, SEAC is backed by more than 27 years of experience as a trusted consultancy for organisation and people development. We foresee changes through time especially in the age of disruption so one should be equipped with new skillsets and capabilities, one should be prepared to reskill to answer demands of today and tomorrow. We now transformed ourselves into becoming a lifelong learning centre to better communicate our broader vision and match with tremendous shifts in paradigms both in individual and organisational levels.
60
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Other than airlines business that is our main business, we have other related business and support our airfreight both in business unit model and joint venture model; contain with • Passengers service, products service, pre flight and post flight preparation • In-flight meals and beverages service • Aircraft maintenance service • Flight administrator service • Duty-free products and souvenir merchandise • Travel and traveling support service • Flight service attendants training service (Joint venture) • Workforce provider service (Joint venture) • Aircraft fuel service (Joint venture) • Seat booking and reservation service (Joint venture) Our main revenue is from passengers and goods transportation in the ratio of 95%. The other 5% is from the other supporting enterprise.
Ms. Arinya Talerngsri - Chief Capability Officer and Managing Director Background SEAC (Southeast Asia Center) is ASEAN’s first and most innovative lifelong learning centre that commits to develop and uplift capabilities of “people” through a “Lifelong Learning Ecosystem” that is compatible with people of all ages. We believe “learning is a lifelong and infinite process” so one should not stop learning new skills, knowledge, and abilities to match with new developments in today’s global contexts. Our mission is to make people realise that the true power of humans is our ability to learn at all stages of our lives.
the world. From schedule flights to charter flights and through our alliances with Suvarnabhumi Airport as the main hub for all flight routes.
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited 89 Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Chomphol Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Tel: +66 (0) 2545 1000 Website: https://www.thaiairways.com/ en_TH/index.page
King’s College International School Bangkok 727 Ratchadaphisek Road, Bang Phong Phang, Yan Nawa, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 (0) 2295 4499 Email: info@kingsbangkok.com Website: www.kingsbangkok.com
Business Activities Aviation Transportation Services & Products Travel and Tourism
Business Activities Education
Chamber Representatives Mr. Sumeth Damrongchaitham President
Chamber Representatives Mr. Thomas Banyard - Founding Headmaster of King’s College School Bangkok Ms. Anna Whitcraft - Founding Team
Background Thai Airways International Public Co,. ltd is a national enterprise subordinated to the Ministry of Transport. It is a public company registered in The Securities Exchange of Thailand since 1991 with the Ministry of Finance as a dominance shareholder at more then 50%. We operate the airlines business that transport passengers, goods, parcels and postal through air transportation via Thai major cities to the primary cities around
Artemis (South East Asia) Recruitment 16/10 North Sathorn Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 2 233 3361 Email: john@artemissea.com; pitsamai@artemissea.com Website: www.ArtemisSEA.com
Business Activities Recruitment Services Talent assessment & Talent Acquisition Training Chamber Representatives
Mr. John Holme - Managing Director (South East Asia) Ms. Pitsamai Khanmanee - Account Director Background Established in 2011, with an HQ in Bangkok, ArtemisSEA is actively and successfully recruiting across Thailand, Indochina markets and all key Asia countries from Indonesia to Japan Our proven recruitment method of sourcing from our vast network and referrals, has been perfected over 8 years, while partnering with over 120 Multinational & Thai corporations. We recruit at a mid and senior level across multiple major industry verticals including, E-commerce, Tech and Financial Services, Construction and Real Estate, Auto suppliers, FMCG, Retail, Energy & Power, 3PL/ Logistics, and the Thailand EEC industrial manufacturers of everything from polymers to components. Call/email us to discuss your Resource needs. We love a good conversation. Products or Services As an employer, you will get a personal experience with ArtemisSEA. Our Account Director will visit your location, meet your management team, and experience the working environment and company culture all to appreciate who you are and what you are offering to our candidates. As a job seeker you gain instant access to top employers in all the major Thailand & SE Asia countries.
Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa 11/7 M. 6 Cheang Talay, Thalang Phuket 83110 Tel: +66 76 609 888 Fax: +66 76 609 899 Email: info@dreamhotelphuket.com Website: www.dreamhotels.com/phuket Business Activities Hospitality Chamber Representatives Ms. Nattinee McMillan - Director of Sales Ms. Pathamon Na Nakorn (Jah) - Senior Sales Manager Background A FIVE-STAR HOTEL FAVORED BY THE IN-CROWD Like a desire that lingers in the subconscious, Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa is something out of a daydream. Conveniently located 20 minutes from the Phuket International Airport, 10 minutes away from the Laguna community and just 5 minutes away from Layan Beach, the hotel is situated away from the hustle and bustle of Phuket’s commercial destinations. Clean, contemporary textures such as natural wood and stone complement lush greenery surrounding a sparkling pool. The swim-up Pool Bar, sun loungers and breezy private cabanas make lounging in style an effortless affair. At Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa, fortune favours the bold with the perfect setting to reconnect with your sweetheart or besties, or befriend an attractive stranger or two. From Vu, the rooftop bar and infinity pool, take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding lush hill views. Host private events indoors at Indulge, the leatherclad restaurant and bar. Trilogy, the signature restaurant tempts and charms with the daily international breakfast, all-day dining and a menu of epicurean delights for dinner. Live vicariously through the theatre-style kitchen as world-class chefs sauté and flambé to satisfy your every craving. Social and trendy with a dash of local flare, the fantasy-fueled interiors of Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa are nothing short of stunning.
Products or Services 172 luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas each feature spacious, modern design and thoughtful amenities. Be spoiled for choice, from private pools and fully equipped kitchens to rain showers and freestanding bathtubs. Relax and allow us to tickle your fancy. After working hard at playing hard, get your glow on from within at Sanctuary. Holistic and pampering therapies from deep tissue massages, aloe wraps, spice scrubs and Ayurvedic treats to mani-pedi services will put the pep in your step in no time. Located four minutes driving distance away on Layan beachfront is Dream Beach Club - the hottest place to be and be seen. A beach club like no other, this mutli-story escape will unleash your wild side at electric night club events and seductive daytime pool parties. A Void Acoustics Sound System delivers unrivalled beats for international house and dance music legends such from Ministry of Sound, Hed Kandi and Soul Heaven. This is the next best thing to paradise itself. Come live the dream like never before. Ownership Mr. Christopher Neil Corner
En-Siri Co., Ltd 119/26 M.11 Huay Yai Pattaya Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 89 604 6253 Email: ensiri.c2r@gmail.com Website: www.ensirimediahouse.com Business Activities Media / Advertising & PR Chamber Representatives Mr. Raywat Willard - Managing Director Khun Juthamat Thanomkul - Sales Manager Background En-Siri Media House, we specialize in corporate photography with offices in both Bangkok and Pattaya. We provide high quality photography, images and attractive video presentation to
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
61
showcase your product / services. Our customers includes international hotels, manufacturing, industries, international schools and headlining corporate events. With the latest in imagery technology combine with a dedicated team, we go above and beyond to help you stand out from the crowd. Products or Services 1. Interior, Exterior, F&B, Lifestyle, Corporate Event Photography 2. Panorama, 360 Virtual Tour, Drone Photography / Video Production 3. Video Presentation, VTR, Social Media Video, Training Video 4. Social Media Content Creation 5. Event Digital Signage (ie LED, MultiMedia Kiosks Rental) Companies Represented Mr. Raywat Willard Ownership Mr. Raywat Willard Bankers 1. Bangkok Bank 2. Siam Commercial Bank Evermore Co., Ltd. 169/11 Soi Yothinpattana Klongjun Sub-District, Bangkapi District, Bangkok 10240 Tel: +66 2 501 6280 Fax: +66 2 501 6288 Email: jak@evermoreinternational.com Website: https://www. evermoreinternational.com/home/ Business Activities Confectionary trading Chamber Representatives
Mr. Jak Leelathayphawan - Executive Director Ms. Pinyapa Somphong - Chief Legal Officer - Southeast Asia Background Evermore Co., Ltd. is the premier confectionary company based and found in Thailand. Since 2013, Evermore has developed a network of reliable suppliers and 62
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
customers from all corners of the world such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei, India, Japan, South Korea and United States. We are committed to personalised customer experiences and customer satisfaction is an integral part of our success. Our vision is to create of innovative branding platform for confectionery, snack, biscuit, grocery, beverage, and candy toy products and build long-term relationship with clients and the entire chain around us to exceed clients’ needs and expectations. Products or Services premier candy, gelatin-based chewable sweets, snack, biscuit, grocery and beverage Companies Represented Mr. Jak Leelathayphawan, Ms. Pinyapa Somphong Senior Management Mr. Jiratha Siriwattanakorn - Executive Director Board of Directors Mr. Jak Leelathayphawan, Ms. Withida Wongsudalak
Background Gledus are the UK’s largest deliverer of STEAM-Tech educational programmes. Our award-winning curriculum is taught all year round to 1000+ British and international students & at various UK Boarding Schools / Universities. Our curriculum educates students ages 7-15 with the digital/tech and soft skills that are in such high demand in todays professional environment. Products or Services Delivery of award-winning STEAM-Tech education to students ages 7-15 around the world.
GreenMech Ltd. The Mill Industrial Park Kings Coughton, Alcester B49 5QG Tel: +44 1789 400044 Fax: +44 1789 764837 Email: sales@greenmech.co.uk Website: www.greenmech.co.uk Business Activities Engineering Garden, Forest & Agriculture Manufacturing Chamber Representatives
Gledus Limited Jubilee House, East Beach Lytham FY8 5FT Tel: +44 01772 970 212 Email: henry.hargreaves@gledus.com Website: www.gledus.com Business Activities Education Education for Early Years to Secondary Training and Development Chamber Representatives
Mr. Henry Hargreaves - Managing Director Mr. Philip Hargreaves - Chairman
Mr. Tony Turner - Chairman Mr. Martin Lucas - Sales Director Background GreenMech, founded in 1993 by Tony Turner, has always worked to bring to life the concept of “engineering for a greener environment “. Today, GreenMech is the British manufacturer of high quality wood chippers and shredders for the professional user. We design, test, manufacture and distribute our machines and back-up all our products through an integrated dealer network, supplying the global market. GreenMech develops innovative ideas to enhance performance in the field and to improve reliability and residual value for our customers. Our patented Disc Blade System lasts up to 3 times
longer than standard straight blades and our patented SAFE-Trak and SURETrak systems allows machines to safely traverse slopes and embankments up to 35 degrees. GreenMech offer a range of Pedestrian, Road-Tow, Turntable, Tracked and TractorMounted machines to meet every need, with chipping capacities from 100mm up to 220mm. All have been designed to incorporate significant noise reduction features. Backed up with ISO 9001: 2015 accreditation, the build quality of our British-designed and built machines is supported by 3 Year “No Quibble” Parts and Labour Warranty and by Aftersales care through our UK and International dealer network. Accreditation with ISO 14001: 2015 underlines our focus on environmental sustainability. After 26 years, GreenMech is still a familyrun business and proud of the success its employees have achieved, including a Queen’s Award for International Trade and a Queen’s Award for Innovation. GreenMech is about product innovation and evolution, matched by excellence in customer support. It’s why we are the top selling wood chipper range in Europe!
MMR Research Worldwide No. 33/4, the Ninth Tower Grand Rama 9, 35th Floor, Tower A, Rama 9 Road, Huaykwang Sub-District Huaykwang District, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 +66 63-421-8980 Email: m.sismey@mmr-research.com Website: www.mmr-research.com
food, drink, personal and household care companies. With a focus on new product development and innovation, for over 30 years our global teams have been partnering with multi-national manufactures to create exceptional brand experiences through the sensory assets of their packaging and products. As well as this, MMR use the power of consumer insight to advise on localisation of international products and brands, allowing companies to adapt their propositions to better cater to local preferences. This is our passion! MMR is a privately-owned British company with offices across APAC in China, India, Singapore and Thailand, and a global footprint covering the Africa’s, USA, Latin America and Europe. We also maintain trained expert sensory descriptive panels in USA, UK, Singapore and China - used by companies across the region to understand and evaluate products in great detail, through a sensory lens. Products or Services We offer a range of approaches, with expertise in the fields of qualitative, quantitative and sensory research, as well as constantly innovating and developing hybrid approaches to support new product development. We focus on partnering with client R&D and Marketing teams to identify and optimise products that are perfectly aligned with consumer expectations. Typical research scenarios include:
Chamber Representatives
• Consumer collaboration – working closely with consumers to develop new concepts or define products • Identifying consumer sensory drivers of liking • Product optimisation or validation • Taste segmentation • White space identification • Range optimisation • Rapid screening of ideas, claims, flavours, names and packs
Mr. Mark Sismey - MD APAC Ms. Issaree Sismey (Maitrewong) - Senior Account Director
Bankers HSBC
Background MMR provides world leading sensory and market research consultancy for global
Phuket Weddings And Events Co., Ltd. 2nd Floor, 149 Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Phuket 83110 Tel: +66 993167023 Email: hillary@phuketweddingsevents. com Website: www.phuketweddingsevents. com Business Activities Events / Event Organisation Business Services Meetings & Social Gatherings Chamber Representatives
Ms. Hillary King - Managing Director Background PWE is a well established leader in international weddings and corporate events both in Phuket and Hong Kong, and renowned globally for the pursuit of excellence. Producing stunning weddings and impactful strategic conferences for a high profile international client base. Established in 2006 & acquired in 2016 by DDK Communications (Hong Kong) - a specialty international event management consultancy, well known for global corporate forums; brand launches, government events; & projects requiring a high degree of strategic planning and implementation. The marriage between DDK and PWE has brought together the highest level of professional event management with global accolades for orchestrating extraordinary conferences; award winning innovative & creative designs; and a passion to ‘push the limits’ of excellence in the MICE, weddings and event supplies arena. PWE Event Supplies and Support is a premiere resource with an extensive high quality event rental inventory and production. Products or Services - International Conference Management
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
63
- Destination Weddings & Social Events Management - Event Rental Supplies, Production and Support - Creative Design and Production - Destination Management Services - Venue procurement - Event Management Training Affiliates DDK Communications 20/F Central Tower 28 Queens Road Central Hong Kong Tel: +852 93644131 hillary@ddkasia.com www.ddkasia.com Companies Represented DDK Communications Limited Ownership DDK: 100% British PWE: 49% British / 51% Thai Senior Management Managing Director: Hillary King Director of Sales & Events: Yadabhat Chaiyaporn ( Fern ) Board of Directors Hillary King
Background In Bangkok, a cosmopolitan city with a diverse mix of art and culture. In between quiet pockets of greenery and the frenetic hum of soi alleyways. In the center of local happenings, corporate offices and entertainment hubs. Sindhorn Midtown rests in the neighborhood of Langsuan, giving you easy access to both Sukhumvit and Silom. A five-minute walk takes you to the BTS SkyTrain Station. A short stroll teleports you to famed Erawan Shrine, the low-key fashion outlet Pratunam Market and fancy megamall CentralWorld. A tuk-tuk ride brings you to Lumphini Park or the Green Lung of Bangkok. At Sindhorn Midtown, you wake up to stunning city views. At dusk, you zoom up to Horizon for a stylish sip. Discover Bangkok’s storied history by day. Retreat to your cozy hotel suite at night. Or move into our serviced residences. Business travelers, yogi masters, city dwellers can all sync in and stay in tune with the city. Split between two towers, Sindhorn Midtown has more than 300 rooms and suites, as well as nearly 50 private residences for long-term stays, all of which are stylish and sophisticated with a Thai touch. Sindhorn Midtown, your urban cocoon in Bangkok. Products or Services Hotel and Serviced Residences
Bankers Krungsri, SCB, HSBC Hong Kong
Ownership Siam Sindhorn Co., Ltd.
COPYRIGHT© DIA BRANDS
Business Activities Hotel and Serviced Residences Chamber Representatives
Mr. Jee Hoong Tan - General Manager Ms. Nicha Ruenthip - Director of Sales and Marketing
64
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Products or Services Our Services: - New yacht sales - Superyacht brokerage and services - Pre-owned yacht sales - Yacht charter - After-Sales - Yacht management and maintenance Our Strengths: - Wide regional network covering Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Maldives – ready to support clients wherever they cruise - 80 experienced staff throughout the region - 10 fulltime expatriate engineers and service team members - Proven-reliable with hundreds boats sold and on the water in the region ownership of massive, 13-hectare, US$35 million boatyard and maintenance facilities and a 112 hectare marina - Established for more than 25 years We are the exclusive authorized dealer for the world’s most prestigious yacht brands
Boat Lagoon Yachting | Logo Artwork | Full Colour | CMYK
Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok 68 Langsuan Road, Lumpini Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 2 796 8888 Fax: +66 2 796 8889 Email: nicha.r@sindhornmidtown.com Website: www.sindhornmidtown.com
brands. Our strength comes from owning the most extensive after-sales service and yacht maintenance facilities in Southeast Asia. Boat Lagoon Yachting is unique among the region’s yacht distribution companies because of its massive investment in outstanding technical service and maintenance facilities. It is an investment that assures every client years of relaxing use of their luxury yacht.
Boat Lagoon Yachting Co., Ltd Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina, 22/1 Moo 2 Thepkrasattri Road. Koh Kaew, Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel: +66 7623 9739 Email: info@boatlagoonyachting.com Website: www.boatlagoonyachting.com BLY LAGOON PMS 571 C C40 M0 Y25 K0 R152 G219 B206 #98DBCE
BLY NAVY PMS 540 C C100 M57 Y12 K66 R0 G48 B87 #003057
Chamber Representatives Mr. Vrit Yongsakul - Managing Director Khun Kornlak Kaewkulaya - Senior Marketing Manager - Thailand Background Boat Lagoon Yachting is one of Asia’s largest and most reputable yacht importation, distribution, and after-sales service organisations, representing some of the world’s most prestigious yacht
Böckling Health GmbH Lurgiallee 6-8 Frankfurt 60439 Tel: +49 030 39887448 Email: info@neoboemi.de Website: https://neoboemi.de Chamber Representatives Mr. Otmar Böckling - Founder and CEO Background Böckling Health was founded in Frankfurt, Germany, by father, sports enthusiast and pharmacist Otmar Böckling. It started with the desire to help a family member, on a very small scale, based on the experience of a practicing pharmacist. The resulting study of the
active substance hyaluron for an acute medical case led to the realisation that the versatility and strengths of hyaluron could be used even more specifically than before for skin care. The result was our first product, the neobömi tri-hyaluron serum with three different, coordinated hyaluronic acids. The quality, effect and natural feel convinced our customers to such an extent that we were able to develop into a brand for sustainable skin care with various hyaluronic products more quickly than we could ever have imagined. Whether for our own family or for our customers our promise of effective, natural cosmetics and the highest product quality applies. Only as a result of our trustworthy, high-quality products have we been able to develop and only in this way can we fully back our products in good conscience.
EuroTalk Ltd 315-317 New Kings Road London, SW6 4RF Tel: +44 2073 717711 Email: steve@utalk.com Website: utalk.com Business Activities Computer / Technology Education – Online English Language Services Chamber Representatives Mr. Richard Howeson - Chairman Mr. Steve Eatock - Education Manager Background uTalk is a UK based EdTech company with a focus on language learning. We provide course content for the consumer, education and corporate sectors. We operate globally, but especially in Thailand and South East Asia. We concentrate on delivering communicative skills, from beginner levels upwards. While English is always a key language, we also offer courses in all ASEAN languages, including Thai.
Mom Tri’s Villa Royale Phuket 12 Kata Noi Road Kata Noi Beach, Phuket 83100 Tel: +66 76-333-568 Fax: +66 76-333-001 Email: info@villaroyalephuket.com Website: www.villaroyalephuket.com Business Activities Hotel Hospitality Hotel / Restaurants / Travel / Tourism Chamber Representatives
Mr. Adisak Pitukrojjananont - General Manager Khun Anchalee (Nok) - Director of Sales Background We are a luxury boutique resort in Phuket, a place you might call home, situated on a headland overlooking the Andaman Sea and the white sand beach of Kata Noi. Villa Royale is a personal creation of the renowned artist and architect Mom Luang Tridosyuth Devakul or better known as Mom Tri, a descendant of King Rama IV. Formerly a summerhouse, it has now been opened to the public to provide guests with a truly royal experience. Our forty-two suites offer the highest standard of privacy and comfort in one of Phuket’s last hideaways. Alluring glimpses of its distinctive Thai-style buildings, authentic Thai antiques blended with luxurious modern comforts and panoramic sea views and lush tropical gardens create an atmosphere of rare tranquility. Landscaped into rocks overlooking the sea is our lovely saltwater swimming pool aside from our two equally available freshwater pools. A private path from the hotel leads to the sugar-white sand beach and the desired-for turquoise water of Kata Noi
Products or Services - Luxury Boutique Resort. A home away from home offering serenity and sincere service as well as top notch suites and view. - Award winning restaurant (Mom Tri’s Kitchen & Mom Tri’s Wok Gallery Kitchen) Superb cuisine, excellent service, and an unforgettable view. - Art Gallery; Adjacent to Mom Tri’s Villa Royale (The VR Gallery)and at Mom Tri’s Wok Gallery Kitchen. Ownership ML Tridosyuth Devakul Bankers Bangkok Bank Ltd., 0QR Ltd Proto, Abbott’s Hill Gateshead NE8 3DF Tel: +44 7477-532539 Email: jason@0qr.co.uk Website: 0qr.uk Chamber Representatives Mr. Jason Urwin - CEO Background We interpret your ideas into an engaging visual reality; producing architectural visualisations that bring clarity to others, communicating the story of your proposals to a wider audience. We combine creativity with the state of art in immersive technologies to deliver unique digital and content experiences. Products or Services digital solutions & immersive content consultancy
137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts 59/1 Sukhumvit Soi 39 Klongton-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 (0)2 079 7000 Email: contact@137pillarsbangkok.com Website: 137pillarsbangkok.com Business Activities Hotel Hospitality Management Consultancy
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
65
Chamber Representatives
Mr. Christopher Edison Stafford - Chief Operating Officer Ms. Nuengruethai Sa-nguansakpakdee Group Director of Sales & Marketing Background Inspired by the original designers of 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, under the guidance of the owners, to create a luxury boutique hotel consisting of 34 luxurious Suites on the upper levels of the property, in addition to 176 serviced Residences, set in a contemporary style building on Sukhumvit Soi 39. The design of this hotel focuses on a modern design,with a timeless quality Products or Services The Best Luxury Address for Business or Pleasure. Set in the heart of The Sukhumvit-thonglor area, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok wows with a blend of warm Thai design and modern urban flair complemented by elegant suites, infinity pools, stunning views, and traditional hospitality values. Affiliates 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai Buju Architects Ltd. 8 Brooks Street, Stockport SK1 3HS Tel: +44 1614 746860 Email: hello@buju.co.uk Website: www.buju.co.uk Business Activities Architecture / Interior Design Construction Chamber Representatives Ms. Prova Zaman - Part II Architectural Assistant Background We are a RIBA Chartered Architectural Practice based in Greater Manchester. We design architecture to inspire & enjoy, exploring original and innovative solutions to each project. From residential to commercial projects, we provide the core design services
66
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
required for your project. Working across the UK and Internationally, we create personal and sustainable architecture, grounded in P.L.A.C.E. We explore innovative and original solutions, combining strong concepts, functional design and quality detailing to deliver progressive and sustainable legacies for our future. Design Original We are passionate about creating great architecture, about sharing knowledge and experience through the industry and about offering best value. Our Values Balance [Definition] Bù jú: ‘arrangement, composition, layout’. Design which is carefully considered at each stage and scale; from laying-out floor plans and key spaces to the artistic composition of elevations. Empathy ‘Client-specific solutions.’ Original responses to individual needs; understanding and capturing the specific needs and requirements for each Client and project. Products or Services Architectural company specializing in design for autism Capital 4 Training I6 Charlotte Square 6-8 Charlotte Square Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 4XF Tel: +44 1912 61 9752 Email: andrew.white@capital4training. org.uk Website: www.capital4training.org.uk
programmes offer the most relevant and up to date training experience. We offer a variety of training packages, from apprenticeships to bespoke training, all are tailored to the needs of the employer and the learner. Our relationships with our employers ensure that we are able to offer a service which will benefits their business and give them confidence in their employees abilities. From initial engagement through to full completion of the training programme, we offer a first rate Information, Advice and Guidance service to ensure that all our learners walk away, having had the exceptional service that they expect and deserve. All of our Training Officers are professional and highly knowledgeable in their industry enabling them to pass on this knowledge and experiences to their learners. Quality Assurance is our priority and by acting on the feedback of employers and learners we constantly review our performance and how this can be improved. We are an equal opportunities organisation and pride ourselves in giving full support to all our learners throughout their learning journey. Capital 4 Training are pleased to announce that we have part and fully funded training opportunities throughout the UK. Delivering;
Business Activities Education & Training
ILM Level 5 Higher Apprenticeships in - Management and Leadership - Warehousing and Storage - Construction Operations and Civil Engineering Services – Highways Maintenance - Supervision level 3
Chamber Representatives Mr. Andrew White - Director
Products or Services training courses provider
Background Capital 4 Training are a private training provider, who’s ethos is based on good quality training. By actively listening to what employers and learners want, all our training
Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 491 Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey Nua Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 090 7888 Fax: +66 2 090 7889 Email: enquiry@carltonhotel.co.th Website: www.carltonhotel.co.th Business Activities Hotel Restaurant Caterers
which washroom to clean, at what time based on demand rather than a rota. • Cash In Transit Security Vehicles CJ Advisory Company Limited Greenfield Villas 5, 53/33 Moo 2, Nongplalia, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 972320625 Email: info@cj-advisory.com Website: www.cj-advisory.com Chamber Representatives
Chamber Representatives Mr. James Henry Telford - Partner
Mr. Mark Bulmer - General Manager Ms. Achara Chuenbunchoo - Director of Sales & Marketing Background Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit is centrally located on Sukhumvit road between Asok and Phrom Phong BTS stations with convenient access to luxury shopping, dining and entertainment. This upper- upscale hotel features 338 guestrooms and suites and a range of dining options including the signature Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant and a rooftop bar. With over 1,200 sqm of meeting and event space, the hotel can cater for boardroom meetings and grand banquets for up to 600 people. Leisure facilities include an outdoor pool, kids play area, spa and a fully equipped gym. All guestrooms are at a minimum size of 37 sqm., and equipped with King or Twin Sealy Posturepedic mattress, bathroom with separate rain shower, bathtub and washlet toilet, generously sized wardrobe, wide luggage rack and open hanging space, floor-to-ceiling soundproof windows with city views, electric blinds and blackout curtains, a working desk with wired and wireless internet, electronic safe, minibar fridge and a 49” smart TV with mirroring via Apple TV and Google Chromecast. Products or Services Hotel / restaurant
Background CJ Advisory Company Limited specialise in how to set up a company in Thailand. We offer the following services. • Setting up the correct company structure to be able to do business in Thailand. • Obtaining all necessary licenses to be able to operate and trade within Thailand • Facilitating partnership’s with project management companies for the construction or procurement and fit out of the required facilities • Facilitating partnership’s with established manpower recruitment companies as well as providing outsourced Finance support. • Facilitating partnerships with companies in a number of different business sectors. Products or Services Specialise in how to set up a company in Thailand, Facilitating partnerships with companies in a number of different business sectors Affiliates Our partners are;
OAK Group a company that specializes in; • Waste To Energy, Generating electricity from renewable energy technologies, which convert solid waste into gas, generating electricity, providing governments with a sustainable source of gas and / or electricity whilst disposing of unwanted waste, which is usually land filled. • Innovative pipeline protection & rehabilitation solutions and technologies including; Thermarestor Heat Detection Pre Ignition Sensors: • The sensors can be fitted in new and existing consumer units (Fuse Boxes) of any household / building • Works as a heat detector, If abnormal heat is detected, it can isolate the power, remove the source of ignition and provide very early warning of a potential problem by alerting the occupant via a suitable alarm system or Metacom communicator application on your phone. • We also have a range of Electrical sockets that can detect heat (80c+) in any appliance plugged into it. Companies Represented Orion Systems UAE / UK, OAK Group Holdings Bahrain, Westcott Services UK, Thermarestor UK, WATO Bulgaria. Ownership British 49% Thai 51% Senior Management James Henry Telford Bankers Siam Commercial Bank
Orion Systems a company that specializes in: • Security systems for buildings, businesses, theme parks, trains / sky trains. • A major player in Airport Baggage Handling systems • Airport Check In Intruder Alert System, • Smart Washrooms shows the cleaners
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
67
DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit 12 Sukhumvit Soi 2, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 (0) 2 262 2999 Fax: +66 (0) 2 262 2900 Email: BKKSO_hotel@hilton.com Website: DoubleTreeBangkokPloenchit. com Business Activities Hotel Chamber Representatives Ms. Siriwan Sheewathanakornkul - Director of Sales Background Welcome to DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit, conveniently located in the heart of vibrant Bangkok, just 35 minutes from Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport. The hotel is a short walk from the Ploenchit and Nana BTS train station and close to Sukhumvit road, offering easy access to vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, businesses, shopping like Terminal 21, EmQuartier, Siam Paragon and more, as well as entertainment districts. Bumrungrad Hospital and Queen Sirikit Convention Center are also within a few minutes’ drive. Products or Services Unwind in a comfortable guest room or suite with views over Bangkok. Thoughtful amenities include working desk, built-in universal USB-enabled plug points, minibar, fridge and in-room safe. Savor local and international favorites at OPEN}, all-day-dining restaurant or relax with a drink at OPEN} Bar. Enjoy amenities, including a well-equipped fitness center with weights and cardio machines, as well as an outdoor pool. DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit offers convenient meeting venue located on the highest floor of the hotel with views over the Bangkok city. Our friendly team looks forward to welcoming you with our signature, warm chocolate-chip cookie upon arrival. Highlights • 251 guest rooms, including 11 stylish suites
68
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
• Rooms with views over Bangkok • 24/7 fitness center and outdoor pool • On-site restaurant and bar, 24/7 room service • Roof top meeting facilities with views of Bangkok skyline • Complimentary parking
Ownership British 100% Board of Directors Stephen E Burton Bankers Kasikorn Thai Bank, HSBC Financial Details Thai 6M Baht registered Company
Easytek Engineering Services Co., Ltd. 62/277-278 Moo 12, Thepprasit Soi 6 Nongpue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 81-652-3197 Fax: +66 38-197-429 Email: scubaengineer@gmail.com Website: www.scubaengineer.com
EMSc Ltd. (Powerstar) 4 Cowley Way, Ecclesfield Sheffield, S35 1QP Tel: +44 7789 487 787 Email: eisen.chok@synergict.com Website: www.powerstar.com
Business Activities Consultancy & Engineering Marine/Maritime/Offshore/Oil/Gas/ Renewable energy Training and Development
Chamber Representatives
Business Activities Energy and Chemicals
Chamber Representatives Ms. Mandy Low - Business Development Consultant Mr. Eisen Chok - Technical Solutions Consultant Stephen Burton - Managing Director Background Professional engineering support services to commercial, military and recreational diving sectors in Thailand for more than 20 years. Products or Services Provision of international technician training services throughout the Asia Pacific region, with more than 500 technicians trained in both Thai & English languages. Licensed cylinder hydrostatic test center providing traceable testing of high pressure cylinders and pipe lines up to 700bars/10,000psi. Service & repair of high pressure breathing air compressors manufactured by Bauer, Coltrisub, LW and Haskel Oxygen booster pump systems. Service, repair and maintenance of IMCA commercial dive sy
Background Formed in 2001, Powerstar is a UK manufacturer and global provider of VIRTUE energy storage, voltage optimisation solutions and SO-LO distribution transformers. Accredited with ISO9001 & ISO14001, Powerstar’s concept-to-completion and engineeringled approach provides tailored engineering solutions to customers in over 20 countries worldwide. Working in partnerships with Synergict, who is a UK-based team of power solution experts with more than 20-year knowledge in UPS, significant leverage is achieved in the industry. Synergict focus on providing Powerstar VIRTUE energy storage solutions and a complete portfolio of single-phase and three-phase UPS power protection systems. This includes a range of consultancy services, such as technical assessment, installation, and on-site operational training. Products or Services On specific product / solutions:
a) VIRTUE Energy Storage Solutions (ESS) An integrated energy management solution with smart grid control featuring power resilience (with built-in UPS capability), frequency balancing and demand side response that is designed for ‘behind-the-meter’ applications. Typical applications of Powerstar VIRTUE include, but are not limited to: time shifting, demand side response (DSR), power resilience through uninterruptible power supply (UPS) capabilities, and maximising renewable generation. b) SO-LO Distribution Transformer Powerstar’s SO-LO super low loss amorphous-core smart transformers include integrated remote monitoring capabilities to provide full visibility of the performance and operating parameters of the system. Powerstar also manufactures a wide range of transformers that can be customised to suit every site’s requirements and different applications. This includes:
• Cast resin transformers • Load bank reactors • Dry type transformers • Network rail transformers • Liquid cool transformers • Bespoke transformers for specialist applications
c) UPS Power Protection System Synergict provides a comprehensive range of single-phase and advanced three-phase Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) for IT, data centre, industrial automation, broadcasting, healthcare, transportation, and access-control applications. Power sizing ranging from 10kVA to 2400kVA, available either in a modular hotscalable design with dynamic parallel load-sharing architecture or a robust transformer-based UPS.
Expo Stars Interactive Ltd. Suite 1D, Basil Chambers, 65 High Street, Manchester M4 1FS Tel: +44 1618 349478 Email: lee@expostars.com Website: www.expostars.com
Business Activities Events / Event Organisation Training, Coaching and Consulting Consultancy Chamber Representatives
Mr. Liaqat Ali - Managing Director Background 1st August 2007. AdTech Exhibition. Navy Pier, Chicago. The first and only time that I can remember being proactively approached and engaged by an exhibitor in my previous 10 years of visiting trade show exhibitions across the globe. Within two minutes, not only had a professional lead generator caught my attention with a smile, but had me qualified as a potential client by asking the right questions and learning about my challenges with marketing software. Having experienced this “light bulb” moment of trade show engagement, I was inspired to start a little business called Expo Stars in December 2007. And what an incredible journey it has been for the past eleven years. Starting as a one-man operation from my bedroom in Manchester, I set out to help companies attending exhibitions to generate more sales leads through hiring proactive promotion staff, initially focusing on exhibitions in London, with a small team of 10 promotion staff and presenters. Fast forward to 2017. We have now managed over 3000 projects, in over 100 cities across 53 countries in the last 11 years and built up a worldwide network of over 2500 professional promotion staff. I strongly believe that the reason for our sustained success (despite all the recessions, banking crises, and political turmoil over the years) is our passion for proactive engagement, the quality of our people, and our drive to deliver results. At Expo Stars, we come to work each day because we want to make a difference and achieve success for our clients and staff. Our approach to doing business, from the very beginning, has been very simple and honest. We try to understand your
business and exhibiting objectives first, and only then create a compelling attendee engagement strategy, tailor training to your team’s needs, and allocate professional staff to your project to elevate your exhibiting performance to another level. Products or Services Since 2007, we have staffed and managed over 3000 projects in over 100 cities across 53 countries. We have experience at all the major exhibitions including CES, Mobile World Congress, Drupa, FESPA, IBC, NAB, Gulfood, Arab Health, Pharmapack, Big 5, and many more. We focus on business sectors including Aviation, Automotive, Pharma/ Medical, Construction, Technology, Gaming, Manufacturing, Food, Telecommunications and others. we work with Organisers, Contractors and Exhibitors. Affiliates exhibition services company specializing in education, consultancy and attendee engagement programmes Companies Represented Exhibition Organisers, Contractors, International Exhibitors Ownership 100% - Mr Liaqat Ali Senior Management Mr Liaqat Ali - Managing Director Miss Hannah Barlow - Director of Operations Board of Directors Mr Liaqat Ali - Managing Director Bankers Barclays Bank Plc
Furniture Clinic Unit 10, Hobson Industrial Estate, Burnopfield, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE16 6EA Tel: +44 1207 279960 Fax: +44 7483 164968 Email: peter.whitehouse@furnitureclinic. co.uk Website: www.furnitureclinic.co.uk Business Activities Manufacturing
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
69
Chamber Representatives
Business Activities Education Examination & Development Services Education & Training Chamber Representatives
Mr. Peter Whitehouse - International Business Manager Background Located in North East England, UK and Founded in 2004, Furniture Clinic is a family run business that began life with a small number of basic leather care products which were retailed to the public. By 2010 the business had moved into a 16,500 sq. ft factory and continued to grow its customer base in both the business to consumer and business to business arms. Today, Furniture Clinic is considered to be one of the largest suppliers of leather aftercare products to the furniture, automotive and equestrian sectors with a growing brand and global presence. Products or Services We manufacture and supply a complete range of products for the cleaning, care, repair and restoration of all items of leather fabric and wood. Our product range covers all sections of the market including; furniture, automotive, clothing, accessories and footwear. We supply products to some of the largest and most well recognised customers in these sectors from around the world. All products are developed and manufactured in-house to the highest standards of quality and consistency, ensuring our customers get the products they need, on time, every time. Affiliates Offices in New York, Hong Kong, Germany, Bulgaria and Romania Companies Represented Furniture Clinic Handbag Clinic
Highfield Qualifications Highfield House, Heavens Walk Doncaster, DN4 5HZ Tel: +44 1302 363277 Email: customerservices@ highfieldinternational.com Website: highfieldinternational.com
70
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Rob Kindness - International Development Manager Background Highfield is a regulated awarding organisation in the UK, with a reputation for being a leading developer and supplier of apprenticeship, compliance and vocational qualifications. Highfield’s 250 qualifications are devised to improve the career prospects of learners by enhancing knowledge and skills. Highfield qualifications cover multiple sectors including aviation services, catering, manufacturing, retail, education, logistics, hospitality, leisure and many more. Highfield also offers an accreditation service that gives an assurance that local and customised qualifications meet UK education standards, are fit for purpose and allow successful learners to be awarded a certificate of achievement by Highfield bearing the IPR owners logo. Highfield’s in-house design teams develop various learning materials and many e-learning solutions. Highfield was winner of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: 2016 Products or Services 1. Ofqual regulated professional, technical, vocational and compliance qualification for various sectors and industries. 2. Apprenticeship standards and supporting materials for various industries. 3. International qualifications designed for learners outside the UK. 4. Accreditation Services to formally recognise and certificate customised and local qualifications. 5. E-Learning programmes and LMS
6. Teaching and learning resources. 7. consultancy and training needs analysis services. Companies Represented Highfield Qualifications Highfield Products - learning resources Highfield E-Learning Highfield International Ownership A family owned business (the Sprenger family) Senior Management Richard Sprenger - founder and Chairman Board of Directors Chris Sprenger - Managing Director Jason Sprenger - Chief Executive Officer Holiday Inn Vana Nava Hua Hin 129/129 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan 77110 Tel: +66 32-809-999 Fax: +66 32-809-900 Website: vananavahuahin. holidayinnresorts.com Business Activities Hotel Hospitality Chamber Representatives Ms. Nampetch Tipaxsorn - Cluster Director of Public Relations Products or Services A Hua Hin resort packed with style, fun and adventure Discover the best accommodation for a family adventure or romantic getaway Explore the seaside resort town of Hua Hin from modern and spacious accommodation that’s wonderfully affordable. Stay in stylish rooms with ocean views perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations. The Holiday Inn Resort Vana Nava Hua Hin is amoung the best Hua Hin resorts — it’s a place to play, celebrate, dine, relax, recharge and escape. We’re also the first Holiday Inn Waterpark Resort in the region. Swim and lounge by our infinity pool with an edge that meets the ocean’s horizon. Drink designer cocktails in the comfortably chic Vana Nava Sky Bar
and Sky Deck on level 27 with the best views of Hua Hin. Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and time together over deliciously designed sharing platters and buffets where Kids Eat Free®. Complimentary is in our nature — get unlimited access to Vana Nava Water Jungle during your stay, take the complimentary shuttle to Le Colonial Beach Club and spend the day relaxing by the sea in style, get access to True Arena and work out in a state-of-the-art recreation facility. Spend the best time together at Holiday Inn Resort Vana Nava Hua Hin designed for travellers who love simplicity and ease plus style. Inno4less 114 Northbourne Street Gateshead, NE8 4AH Tel: +44 7477 532539 Email: rap@mind3r.com Business Activities Virtual Reality Computer / Technology Chamber Representatives Mr. Raphael Kling David - CEO Companies Represented information technology consultancy James Fisher Plc Fisher House, Michaelson Road Barrow in Furness, LA14 1HR Tel: +44 1229 615 400 Fax: +44 1229 836 761 Email: a.nattrass@james-fisher.co.uk Website: www.james-fisher.com Business Activities Marine/Maritime/Offshore/Oil/Gas/ Renewable energy Chamber Representatives
Mr. Andy Nattrass - International Business Development Background James Fisher and Sons plc is a leading provider of specialised services to
the marine, oil and gas and other high assurance industries worldwide. We operate in Oil & Gas, Marine, Nuclear, Defence, Ports and Terminals, Vessels, Construction, Transport and Infrastructure.
beaches, where minutes turn to hours with the ebb and flow of the languorous tides. From the resort’s ocean view terraces you can see the glimmering Andaman Sea and super yachts moored off the pretty island of Koh Pu.
Products or Services https://www.james-fisher.com/services/
Ponder it all from beneath white umbrellas shading contemporary sunbeds while lying in the resort’s 35-metre infinity pool, or while floating in your Sky Villa’s private infinity pool.
Affiliates https://www.james-fisher.com/about/ companies/ Companies Represented specialised services to the marine, oil and gas and other high assurance industries worldwide Ownership British Public Limited Company Kata Rocks Co., Ltd. 186/22, Kok-Tanode Road Karon, Muang, Phuket 83110 Tel: +66 76 370 777 Fax: +66 76 370 776 Email: generalmanager@katarocks.com Website: www.katarocks.com Business Activities Hospitality Chamber Representatives Mr. Gordon Aeria - General Manager Background A haven of calm on the Andaman Sea, Kata Rocks is a truly remarkable resort and private residence. Our palatial Sky Villas – featuring one, two, three or four bedrooms – are set around large airy living areas, open plan kitchens and private swimming pools. A sophisticated resort in one of the world’s most romantic beach destinations, we enjoy a reputation for style, service and excellence. Modern and contemporary, elegant and cutting-edge, Kata Rocks is the ultimate Phuket destination. At Kata Rocks we offer perfection without compromise, every element of this highly successful resort is addressed with painstaking attention to detail. This allows Kata Rocks to seamlessly blend conciergestyle service with a truly world class location, creating a true flagship hotel for its owning company, Infinite Luxury. The oceanfront resort is perched on a small cape between Kata and Kata Noi
Each of our 34 Sky Villas is built to the highest exacting standards and offers a true sense of privacy with beautiful ocean views … just perfect for sunset drinks on the expansive outdoor terrace. With full home automation and iPad control of everything from the blinds to ordering a club sandwich, Kata Rocks is your dream destination. The cuisine at the Bar and Restaurant at Kata Rocks is exceptional: fresh oysters, local seafood and tapas are a few of the house specialties and are bliss with a glass of crisp white or robust red from our state-of-the-art Enomatic wine dispenser. Destination dining options include oceanfront picnics ‘on the rocks’ or gourmet meals prepared in the privacy of your Sky Villa by your own personal chef. Known as top romantic restaurant in Phuket you will enjoy dining in your villa or our awarded best restaurant. Our Infinite Luxury Spa delivers heavenly therapies that rejuvenate and relax your body and soul. Each treatment is unique, using only the best natural organic spa ingredients from ILA spa to achieve the ultimate indulgent spa experience. As the best spa in Phuket you will experience stunning Thai spa massages and personalised service. Products or Services Luxury Resort consists of 34 Villas Ownership 49% British 51% Thai Kavin Intertrade Co., Ltd. 308, The Krungdeb Co-op store Ltd. Building, Lad Yah Branch, 4th floor, Lad Yah Road, Klongsarn, Bangkok 10600 Tel: +66 02-861-4013 Fax: +66 02-861-4010 Email: tehchad.kavin@gmail.com
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
71
Chamber Representatives
Mr. Teerayuth Leelakajornkij - General Manager Mr. Tehcahd Kittiboonya - Assistant Business Development Manager
The sales and marketing opportunities created utilizing our events as a platform are endless; including public relations, traditional media, advertising, electronic communications, social media, word of mouth and meeting new customers face to face.
Financial Details A company register in the United Kingdom
We are fully committed to continuously develop these two shows, as well as our other shows to the international standard.
New Nordic Group Co., Ltd. 389/89 Moo.12 Pratamnak Soi 4, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 038250807, 038250025 Email: sales@newnordicgroup.com Website: www.newnordicgroup.com
Background Kavin Intertrade Co., Ltd. We Connect Business As a market leader in many industries in Thailand, we provide a dynamic platform for local and international businesses to connect with their intended visitors. Our exhibition portfolios consist of several trade and consumer events across a number of industries; coffee, food and hospitality, retail, cold chain, franchising and pubs and bars. We strive to connect, educate and strengthen business communities around the world. Our events provide quality sales leads, networking opportunities, a high return on investment for exhibitors and an exciting, memorable experience for visitors. Products or Services Now in 20 years, we are an innovative exhibition company which owns a portfolio of 10 premium, industry-specific trade and consumer events in Thailand. Established in 1999, the company has since experienced unprecedented growth and success. This has resulted in acclamations from industry leaders, government agencies as well as local and international associations. Employing 26 highly experienced and dedicated staff, our office is located in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. Our approach to business is unique with an emphasis on local roots and global reach. We create energetic, educational and invigorating environments where business goals are achieved without geographic boundaries. Our events provide quality sales leads, a high return on investment for exhibitors and an exciting, memorable experience for visitors.
72
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
Lim & Co (UK) Ltd Eden Square, Liverpool L3 2FE Tel: +44 7725 418 521 Email: eugylim@hotmail.com Business Activities Business Services Consultancy Education & Training Chamber Representatives
Ms. Lay Yuan Lim - Managing Director Background Business consultancy, specialised in helping various organisations to work with UK schools, Higher education and Universities. Products or Services Delivering international education solutions to Thai Business or Thai Government organisation. Education exchange and talent exchange programs. Affiliates University of Liverpool, University of Manchester. Many other UK schools and Colleges. Companies Represented technical and vocational secondary education Ownership Owned 100 % by Managing Director
Business Activities Hotel; Property Development Hotel / Restaurants / Travel / Tourism Investment Services / Advisors Chamber Representatives
Mr. KC Cuijpers - Sales Development Director Background New Nordic Group is a property and development company with the aim to develop family friendly holiday villages across Asia and beyond. We work to offer innovative, ethical and sustainable investments and travel experiences in emerging destinations to everyone, everywhere. Today, the New Nordic Group is in an array of countries on multiple locations, right across South Eastern Asia, South and Central Africa, Europe, North and Latin America. And rapidly expanding. Products or Services The New Nordic Group has, since its beginning, been dedicated to find new and emerging destinations and to see the potential of these locations by utilizing new and innovative approaches. By bridging the real estate and hospitality sector, the Group has been able to offer a range of great investments and holiday experiences to their people and partners. The Group is dedicated to continuing to venture into new and upcoming destinations and opportunities in a constantly evolving world. To date: 50+ projects have been completed and delivered.
Affiliates Oroma, Auran, Arumi
please visit the NOCN section of our website.
Companies Represented The New Nordic Group consists of a selection of individual brands led by separate teams of professionals.
One Awards is an Access Validating Agency, licensed by QAA (The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education) to accredit the QAA Access to HE Diploma. The Diploma is one of the main routes for adults wishing to apply for university in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. As well as approving organisations to deliver the Access to HE Diploma, we also actively engage with QAA, UCAS and other agencies to contribute to the development of the Diploma nationally. If you would like to know more about our AVA work please visit the Access to HE section of our website.
Ownership Privatly owned and operated Senior Management Kurt Svendheim - Phillip Cook NOCN Group Acero Building 1 Concourse Way, Sheaf Street, Sheffield, S1 2BJ Tel: +44 3009 991177 Email: daniel.khan@NOCN.onmicrosoft. com Business Activities Education & Training Chamber Representatives Prof. Daniel Khan - Global Director One Awards 1 Palmer Road, South West Industrial Estate, Peterlee, SR8 2HU Tel: +44 1915 186550 Fax: +44 1915 186551 Email: admin@oneawards.org.uk Website: www.oneawards.org.uk Business Activities Education & Training Chamber Representatives Ms. Fabiene Bailey - Managing Director Background One Awards’ mission is to support learning and widen opportunity by recognising achievement through creditbased courses and qualifications. One Awards is a Quality Assurance and Accreditation organisation offering accreditation services, Access to HE Diplomas, and delivering services on behalf of NOCN, a leading UK Awarding and Assessment Organisation which has created opportunities for students and learners for 30 years. NOCN qualifications are specifically designed to enable learners to achieve their individual goals and meet the growing challenges and demands of the 21st century. If you would like to know more about NOCN
We are a not-for-profit charitable company and invest our resources into continuously developing our products and services. Our track record speaks for itself. For 24 years we have been offering a seamless learning accreditation service that is highly valued by our recognised centres and learners. We’re vibrant, responsive and unashamedly proud of our established reputation for excellent customer service. One Awards is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity (company number 4042215; charity number 1087530). Affiliates Who We Work With NOCN qualifications and One Awards accredited units are delivered by an extensive range of learning providers including: - Adult and Community Education Centres - Employers Further Education Colleges - Local Education Authorities - Offender Learning Providers and Prisons - Pupil Reintegration Units (PRU) - Schools - Sixth Form Colleges - Trade Unions - Training Providers - Universities and Higher Education Institutions - Voluntary and Community Organisations
Companies Represented training and qualification provider Orbis Immersive Springboard Business Centre, Ellerbeck Way, Middlesbrough Cleveland TS9 5JZ Tel: +44 844 500 55 22 Fax: +44 844 500 55 44 Email: info@orbisimmersive.com Website: www.orbisimmersive.com Business Activities Technologies Chamber Representatives Mr. Sarfraz Mian - CEO Background We have transformed how developments are seen by customers. Our solutions provide interactive visual environments that engage and excite buyers. Products or Services OUR TECHNOLOGY The Orbis Interactive platform creates an interactive, hyper-realistic, visual environment. Our technology strengthens the sales and purchasing process. We enable purchasers to undertake realistic walk-throughs of developments, whether a starter homes, apartment, luxurious executive home or a commercial building. Our technology allows purchasers to modify and customise their property and create a 3D visualisation of their new home. Our interactive 3D environments emotionally connect prospective purchasers with developments and help to secure the vital purchase decision. Companies Represented information technology consultancy including 3D immersive interactive Rexor Technology Ltd. The Old Workshop, Kennelys Lane Wilmslow, SK9 5EQ Tel: +44 1625 532026 Email: enquiries@rexortechnologyltd.com Website: rexortechnologyltd.com Business Activities Technologies Aviation
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
73
Chamber Representatives Mr. Tony Berzins - Technical Director Background Rexor Technology and its partner companies focus specifically on airport requirements worldwide; we provide a specialist range of systems, products and services that support the diversity of airport requirements. These include airport operations, terminal operations, passenger services, security and other areas. Our specialist support assists civil airports to meet their operational and business objectives, necessary to satisfy the ever growing needs of support for management, operations, commercial, retail and security. Our approach emcompasses the use of the latest technology ensuring airports operate profitably, effectively and efficiently, whilst delivering compliance with the various international and domestic rules and regulations. Ultimatley providing a safe and secure environment for passengers, staff and visitors. There are a significant number of “technology” based systems, products and services required to help achieve these objectives - airports operate long hours and often include shared passenger and cargo/ freight operations necessitating solutions that provide the required functionality and high levels of reliability, availability and business continuity to the end user. Rexor Technology Ltd works with selected, experienced, highly qualified partners and suppliers to satisfy the needs of our clients worldwide, recognising that every project is different in almost every respect. To help airport clients achieve their goals and objectives Rexor Technology Ltd acts a”one stop shop for airport products and systems; alternatively, Rexor Technology Ltd can deliver a “smart” airport solution and is able to provide a number of discreet, specialist intergrated systems, configured ready for operational use. Rexor Technology also strives to minimise the enviromental impact of our projects, enabling technology and eco systems to co-exisit effectively. Affiliates aviation technology systems, products
74
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
and services to support airport & terminal operations, passenger services, security, etc Serenity Wines Asia Co.,Ltd. Tower One Barangaroo, level 35, 100 Barangaroo Avenue Sydney, NSW 2000 Thonglor Tower Building B, 790/18, Sukhumvit 55, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 (0) 2014 3145 Email: Sales@serenitywines.com.au Website: serenitywine.asia Business Activities Wine Retail, Food & Beverage
Soneva Kiri Resort 110 Moo 4, Koh Kood Sub-District, Koh Kood District, Trat 23000 Tel: +66 2631 9698 Fax: +66 2631 9699 Email: reservations@soneva.com Website: www.soneva.com Business Activities Hotel Hospitality Chamber Representatives
Chamber Representatives
Ms. Carissa Nimah - Chief Marketing Officer Ms. Porrada Pengsombat - General Manager Background We are an environmentally and socially conscious grower, producer, and marketer of Australian wines of the highest quality and value, specifically for the Southeast Asian region. Working in harmony and with respect for the human spirit, we are committed to sharing information about the enjoyment of food and wine in a lifestyle of moderation and responsibility. Products or Services Distributor of wine from our vineyard in Australia are brand Infinitum and Innovate, Nericon, 2monkey, The French Wines we import are white, red and sparkling wine under the Arrogrant Frog Brand Ownership Thai 100% Senior Management Ms. Porrada Pengsombat, General Manager Board of Directors Mr. Anthony Rossi, Chairman & CEO Bankers Siam Commercial Bank
Background Located in a tropical rainforest, on an unspoiled island with some of the best beaches in Thailand, Soneva Kiri offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, eco-friendly design and unique Thai experiences. This island hideaway features 34 expansive one to six-bedroom villas that seem to melt into the island’s natural beauty. Barefoot Intelligent Luxury at its best. No news, no shoes, Thai style. Products or Services Accommodation: Soneva Kiri Resort comprises 34 pool villas on either beach level hillsides or cliff tops, all overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Other Unique Services - Luxurious custom-fitted 8 seat Cessna Grand Caravan plane for Soneva Kiri guests - Soneva Kiri private airport - Four different onsite restaurants - Direct scheduled and private flights from Soneva Kiri to Siem Reap,Cambodia to visit the wonders of Angkor Wat Affiliates Soneva Headquarters 142 19/F Two Pacific Place Sukhumvit Road, Kwang Klongton Khet Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Ownership Sonu and Eva Shivdasani
Senior Management Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO; Eva Shivdasani, Creative Director and Conscience; Bruce Bromley, Deputy CEO and CFO; Francisca Antunes, Managing Director - Operations and Wellness; Carissa Nimah, Chief Marketing Officer; Joanne Bowen, Chief Talent Officer.
Background The Village provides a unique learning environment which puts the child at the centre of all activities. Multiple specialists from teachers, psychologists, and therapists work together with to support the child. This all-round support develops the child’s strengths and addresses learning difficulties effectively.
Sterling Sensors UK Ltd Fitmec Works, Hawksley Street Oldham, Greater Manchester, OL8 4PQ Tel: +44 (0) 161 620 0410 Fax: +44 (0) 7803 218 484 Email: info@precision21.co.uk, sales@sterlingsensors.co.uk Website: www.sterlingsensors.co.uk
Ownership British 49%, Thai 51%
Business Activities Manufacturing Chamber Representatives Mr. Joe Murray - Director
Time2Resources 1 Park View Court, St Pauls Road Shipley, BD18 3DZ Tel: +44 1904 692924 Email: info@time2resources.co.uk Education & Training Chamber Representatives Ms. Helen Coupland-Smith - Director Mr. Carlo Mencattelli - Director
The School of Arts and Media, University of Salford Maxwell Building, 43 Crescent University, M5 4WT Tel: +44 1612 955000 Email: a.j.walker1@salford.ac.uk
Ucargo Pacific Logistics Ltd. Suite 15f Mioc, Styal Road Manchester, M22 5WB Tel: +44 1612 047037 Email: mark.kennedy@ucargo.co.uk
Business Activities Education
Business Activities Freight Forwarding & Logistics
Chamber Representatives Mr. Allan Walker - Dean of School
Chamber Representatives Mr. Mark Kennedy - Global Sales Director
The Village International Education Centre 14, Soi Sukhumvit 42 Sukhumvit Road, Prakanong Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2391-4453 Fax: +66 2391-4005 Email: www.village-education.com Website: harshi@village-education.com
Willow Green Enterprises Willow Green Farm Willow Green Lane, Little Leigh, Northwich, CW8 4RB Email: Chris@deemak-international.com Business Activities Food & Beverage Chamber Representatives Mr. Chris Harrison - Managing Director
Email: contact@winepro.co.th; emmanuel@winepro.co.th Website: www.winepro.co.th Business Activities Wine Retail, Food & Beverage Sales / Distribution Import / Export Chamber Representatives Mr. Emmanuel Giry - Managing Director Background Wine Pro has been importing and distributing wines in Thailand since 2013. With offices and warehouses in Bangkok, Phuket and Samui Wine Pro teams are able to deliver wine across all country. Products or Services Wine Pro has handpicked wines from the best producing regions around the world, working closely and directly with producers, always trying to find the best value for money for their customers. NEW MEMBERS DECEMBER 2019 NaturVita Co.,Ltd C4 Bymac Centre Northwest Business Park Blanchardstown, Dublin Tel: + (+44) 20 32865253 Email: sales@naturvital.co.uk Business Activities Retail / Wholesale / Sourcing Chamber Representatives Mr. Neal Gee - Director Stein Consulting T/A Stein Personal & Corporate Planners World Trade Centre, 6 Bayside Road 1st Floor, Unit 1.02, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA Tel: +350 2000 8000
Business Activities Education
Business Activities Financial Services
Chamber Representatives
Chamber Representatives Mr. Stuart Langan - Owner
Mr. Harshi Sehmar - Director
Wine Pro Co., Ltd. Unit 1907-1908, 19th Fl. Bhiraj Tower at Emquartier 689 Sukhumvit Rd., Klongton Nuea, Vadhana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 (0)2 261 2838-40 Fax: +66 (0)2 261 2841
Products or Services Personal & Corporate Planners devising and implementing Financial Strategies for individual and Exit Rout planning for owners/shareholders of SME.
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
75
FINAL WORD
Ghost tour gremlins By Dale Lawrence
A
Batting for both sides
The Rev. Nick Bromfield objected to St Mary’s Church (pictured) being featured in itineraries arranged by Cotswold Ghost Tours, claiming that the tours were ’un-Christian’ and ‘bordered on the occult’. “Ghost tours have no part in a place of Christian worship and they don’t belong in a Christian graveyard,” he said.
I’m confused. A male cricketer that ‘self identifies’ as female has won Kent Cricket’s woman player of the year award. Maxine Blythin struggled to impress teammates when playing for Chesham men’s second eleven, average just 15 runs.
Gloucestershire vicar has hammered the final nail in the coffin of spooky ghost tours in the village of Prestbury.
Organiser Mike James has now folded the business, with the last tour having taken place to ‘celebrate’ Halloween. Prestbury, perhaps better known as the home to Cheltenham Racecourse,
is said to be one of the most haunted villages in England. Supposed sightings include the ‘Black Abbot’, ghostly horsemen, spectral funeral processions and the spirit of a young girl – although it’s not clear how many of these ghostly apparitions were spotted by late night revellers at the nearby Plough Inn.
Randy Cannon I was very sorry to hear of the untimely death of legendary jazz pianist Randy Cannon, a fixture for many years at the Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit’s popular Living Room. Randy was equally at home taking centre stage with his own band or as support to the many guest singers and musicians that have performed at the Living Room under the watchful guise of hotel General Manager Richard Chapman. Randy Cannon is much missed by jazz music fans in Bangkok and elsewhere.
But after switching to the Women’s Cricket Southern League, ‘Maxine’ fared much better with the bat against the slower pace of bowlers that were actually born female. Apparently, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) permits men to play in women’s competition as long as they ‘identify as female’. It’s just not cricket.
Time to ‘unplug’ The British pop music combo Coldplay have been kind enough to postpone plans for a tour to promote their new LP. Lead singer Chris Martin, erstwhile spouse of actress Gwyneth Paltrow, cited concerns over the environmental impact of touring.
The Living Room, one of my favourite jazz venues in the city, will never be quite the same. Thanks for the memories.
Perhaps any future promotional concerts could be confined to the ‘unplugged’ variety, thus saving our ear drums and eliminating noise pollution at the same time. Just a thought.
And finally……… These really are my final words in The LINK. It’s been a pleasure editing the BCCT magazine over
the past nine years. Thanks to all BCCT members that have contributed news stories, analysis
of relevant business issues, and in-depth articles. Happy New Year!
The views and opinions expressed on this page by Editor Dale Lawrence are entirely personal and do not reflect official BCCT policy. 76
The Link
Final Issue | 2019
A WORLD OF
OPPORTUNITY
“Bangkok Patana formed the foundation of who I am as a person today, from my love for all things creative (I learned how to shoot and develop photos in Patana’s very first dark room) to my passion for sustainable living through Environmental Studies class. The diverse programming helped me to cultivate a mindset for entrepreneurship where I can pull together my various skill sets and become an effective leader. “
Tarica Phung, Class of 1997, Owner Kinn Home, Texas
admissions@patana.ac.th Tel: +66 (0) 2785 2200 www.patana.ac.th Bangkok Patana is a not for profit, IB World School accredited by CIS
Is your business ready to expand with the world’s fastest growing trade bloc? ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is now one of the world’s top 5 economies. With multiple Free Trade Agreements, over US$137 billion of FDI and US$1 trillion of bilateral China trade1, a new era of opportunities has emerged. At HSBC, we have over 130 years of experience in connecting businesses to Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. With local knowledge, award-winning solutions as well as a network that spans 90% of global trade and capital flows, we’re here to help.
Connecting businesses to where the growth is. See how at business.hsbc.com/asean
Disclaimer: 1. PWC, The future of ASEAN: Time to act Issued by HSBC Holdings plc.