Global franchise operators eye Thai growth

Franchise brands from the US, France and China are eyeing opportunities in Thailand which has become a strong drawcard for offshore companies, according to consultants.

Southeast Asian specialist VF Franchise Consulting is holding a franchise-business matching event in Bangkok next week, with local partner Gnosis which has drawn businesses keen to establish a presence in Thailand.

Among the companies participating who are seeking local partners are retailers Ace Hardware, Delifrance and Little Caesars. Others include technology-focused language education company Qooco and Scholastic World of English.

“Thailand continues to be of strong interest from our clients,” said Sean T Ngo, CEO of VF Franchise Consulting. “Whether it is food and beverage, education, retail, fashion or services, all of these sectors are attractive in the Thai market.”

Ngo says the key to succeeding in Thailand’s ultra-competitive market is offering clear and sustainable value and differentiation.

“We believe the brands that we are taking to Thailand fit that extremely well as they are all leaders in their respective franchise segments.”

On February 25 in Bangkok, some of the franchisor executives from the brands will meet one-on-one with invited franchisees and investors.

US-based Little Caesars Pizza is the world’s third-largest pizza franchise and now operates in 26 countries, including Singapore and the Philippines.

Delifrance is the world’s largest French bakery and cafe chain and has more than 400 stores serving millions of customers in 15 countries across the globe.

Ace Hardware is the largest home-improvement franchise in the world with more than 5300 stores worldwide, including more than 200 stores in the Philippines and nearly 200 stores in Indonesia.