Central FamilyMart set to expand

Central FamilyMart plans to double the number of its convenience stores in Thailand from 1116 to more than 2000 within five years.

President Chiranun Poopat says the company will continuously expand the number of FamilyMarts to cater to a growing market and increase access to consumers in specific locations. The expansion will be achieved by capital investment as well as franchising.

“We are still confident in the high growth potential of convenience stores in the Thai market as shoppers appreciate convenience and diversity as well as product quality.

“We will focus on opening more FamilyMart stores in Bangkok and the surrounding areas, as well as cities and destinations visited by foreign tourists,” says Chiranun.

She says the company will add more than 60 stores this year, and also has a focus on improving existing outlets.

There are also plans to collaborate with local entrepreneurs and suppliers so the stores can offer products for specific areas, especially tourist destinations.

FamilyMart’s latest branch opened in Bangkok’s MBK shopping centre last week, offering ready-to-eat foods and beverages.

For the current Vegetarian Festival, Chiranun says FamilyMart has increased its vegetarian options to 400 items. New offerings include vegetarian onigiri (Japanese rice balls), baked Riceberry with taro, stirfried mixed mushrooms with rice, stirfried soy protein with black pepper, a coleslaw sandwich and a vegetarian bento set.