Retail / Bangkok
Buying power
Thai retail giant Central Group has been proving its commitment to the department-store model by purchasing prestige outlets across Europe while renovating its Bangkok flagship. Natira Boonsri, CEO of Central Department Store Group, tells us about its VIP service and why rumours of the decline of these behemoths have been greatly exaggerated.
The future of the department store has been repeatedly questioned over the past decade as luxury brands invest in their own shops and consumer behaviour evolves. But while relationships between brands and department stores might be forever changed – brands are seeking more control and now operate their own concessions within these institutions – department stores will continue to play a critical role in the luxury ecosystem.
Since 2011, Central Department Store Group, which is based in Thailand, has been buying up the best department stores across…
