News Categories: News

• TOPS DAILY Laguna Village Recognised for Excellence in Retail Innovation with the ‘Convenience Retailer of the Year’ Award at the 2025 NACS Convenience Retail Award ASIA-PACIFIC

Bangkok, 18 March 2025 — TOPS DAILY, operated by Central Food Retail Group under Central Retail, is making waves in the convenience store industry with the launch of ‘TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR’—a groundbreaking hybrid model that seamlessly integrates two powerhouse brands of Central Food Retail Group: TOPS DAILY, a leading mini-supermarket, and TOPS WINE CELLAR, a premium specialty wine store. This innovative concept redefines convenience for customers by introducing an extensive range of over 700 premium alcoholic beverages from 13 countries worldwide. With Thailand’s tourism industry rebounding and the growing demand for premium alcoholic products, TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR strategically targets high-traffic tourist destinations. The company is launching 13 pilot stores in prime locations—including Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Pattaya—as part of the first phase, with plans to expand by an additional 20–25 stores in 2025.

Further reinforcing its position as a leader in the food retail industry, TOPS DAILY Laguna Village has been recognised with the prestigious ‘Convenience Retailer of the Year’ award at the 2025 NACS Convenience Retail Award ASIA-PACIFIC, highlighting the company’s relentless drive for innovation and its ability to redefine the retail landscape.

Mr. Stephane Coum, Chief Executive Officer of Food Group at Central Retail, stated that Thailand’s convenience store sector remains highly competitive, driven by evolving consumer trends, government stimulus measures, and the continued growth of the tourism industry. It is projected that in 2025, the market value of the Thai convenience store market is expected to grow significantly to 638 billion baht (Source: Land and Houses Bank). To stay ahead in this competitive landscape, TOPS DAILY has strategically differentiated itself by capitalising on the resurgence of international tourism. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts 40 million inbound tourists in 2025, a sharp increase from 35.54 million in 2024, contributing to a growing demand for premium alcoholic beverages—up 13% in key tourist hotspots like Pattaya and Phuket.

Recognizing this emerging opportunity, TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR was born—a hybrid convenience store model combining the strengths of two powerhouse brands of Central Food Retail Group. The concept merges TOPS DAILY, a mini-supermarket offering a diverse range of global consumer goods, with TOPS WINE CELLAR, a specialty wine store featuring a curated selection of premium, exclusive, and high-quality wines sourced directly from top wineries worldwide by our wine-buying experts—at competitive prices. This innovative retail model redefines convenience shopping, providing customers with a unique experience that meets local lifestyle needs all in one place. Aligned with Central Retail’s Truly World-Class Omni-Channel Lifestyle Food Retail vision, it sets a new benchmark in Thailand’s convenience store industry.

Ms. Maytinee Phisutsinthop, Chief Operating Officer (Small Format), Central Food Retail under Central Retail, highlighted that TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR is a unique hybrid model, the first in the market to merge a convenience store with a specialized wine shop. This aligns perfectly with TOPS DAILY’s ‘Joy-venience Store’ concept, enhancing customer convenience with enjoyment. The first pilot store, TOPS DAILY Laguna Village in Phuket, officially opened in late 2024, marking the beginning of this groundbreaking expansion. With this model, the alcoholic beverage selection—comprising beer, wine, and spirits—expanded from 240 to 700 items. Additionally, a dedicated zone was introduced to showcase premium alcoholic products, allowing customers to explore a wider selection and immerse themselves in the world of fine beverages. This strategic move has proven highly successful, with the daily sales of TOPS DAILY Laguna Village exceeding expectations by 37%, driven predominantly by international tourists, who make up 60% of the customer base.

TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR: A Game-Changing Hybrid Model with 3 Key Highlights

• One-Stop Shopping for All Your Needs: The integration of TOPS DAILY x TOPS WINE CELLAR caters to customers seeking a complete shopping experience in one place. From daily essentials and fresh groceries to premium wines and imported beverages, customers can conveniently find everything they need—all under one roof.

• A Curated Selection of Premium Imported Wines : A true haven for wine lovers and social enthusiasts, TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR boasts an extensive selection of over 300 premium wines from 13 countries, including 200 exclusive labels sourced directly from the wineries and distributed exclusively by TOPS. Beyond wine, the store also features a diverse collection of other premium alcoholic beverages, complemented by in-house wine specialists who provide expert recommendations tailored to each customer’s preferences.

• A Relaxed, Enjoyable Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in a refined shopping experience with a dedicated space designed for relaxation and socialising. Enjoy a diverse selection of beverages in a comfortable setting, making every visit to TOPS DAILY x TOPS WINE CELLAR more than just shopping—it’s an indulgence.

“Currently, the TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR hybrid model is operating in 13 key tourist destinations in its first phase, including Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Pattaya. This pilot phase will allow TOPS DAILY to gain insights into customer engagement with the model in each location. In addition to integrating TOPS WINE CELLAR, the TOPS DAILY branch at Nai Yang, Phuket, has enhanced its offerings by incorporating The Baker Café, strengthening the brand’s position and creating a distinctive shopping experience for customers. This expansion is tailored to meet the lifestyle and needs of each location’s clientele. Moving forward, we aim to expand this model with an additional 20–25 branches by the end of 2025,” concluded Ms. Maytinee.

Building on its remarkable success in both sales growth and retail innovation, TOPS DAILY Laguna Village has emerged as a game-changer with its hybrid retail model—TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR. By strategically integrating the strengths of sub-brands under Central Food Retail Group, the concept not only enhances business opportunities but also seamlessly aligns with evolving customer lifestyles and demands. As a result of its outstanding performance, TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR has been honoured with the prestigious 2025 NACS Convenience Retailer of the Year Award for Asia-Pacific. This accolade was presented at the NACS Convenience Summit Asia, held in Tokyo, Japan—a premier gathering of regional retail leaders, where industry experts exchange insights, discuss trends, and explore strategic advancements in the convenience retail sector. The award, determined by industry professionals and retail operators, represents the highest standard of excellence in global convenience retailing, further solidifying TOPS DAILY × TOPS WINE CELLAR’s position as an industry pioneer.

For more details, visit www.tops.co.th, follow us on Facebook: TopsThailand, or connect via LINE: @TopsThailand.

#TOPS #TOPSDAILY #EveryDayDISCOVERY

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Bangkok, 13 February 2025 — Tops Daily, a business under Central Retail, is creating a new phenomenon the convenience store industry with the launch of ‘Daily Smoothie’, Thailand’s first-ever automated smoothie maker. This innovative addition allows customers to enjoy a fresh and interactive experience by blending their own 100% real fruit smoothies at the touch of a button. The three refreshing flavours cater to different taste preferences and health goals: Tropical Sunshine Smoothie, Berrylicious Smoothie, and Green Paradise Smoothie. Designed for today’s health-conscious consumers, Daily Smoothie provides a convenient and nutritious option at an affordable price. The pilot launch has begun at four Tops daily locations, including The Offices at CentralwOrld, Government Complex (Chaengwattana), KrungthepKritha 32 and Central Food Retail Head Office (Central Chaengwattana, 17th Floor). With an upcoming plan to expand to more locations to Phuket. 

Ms. Maytinee Phisutsinthop, Chief Operating Officer (Small Format), Central Food Retail under Central Retail, stated, “Modern consumers are prioritising their health more than ever, influenced by factors such as climate change, environmental concerns, pandemics and personal well-being, including physical appearance and skincare. This shift has led to a surge in popularity for vegetable and fruit-based smoothies, valued for their delicious taste, convenience, and nutrient-rich ingredients packed with essential vitamins and minerals.”

Recognising this trend, Tops daily saw an opportunity to develop products and services that cater to evolving consumer demands. After analysing global convenience store trends and technologies, we found that automated smoothie machines in convenience stores offer a unique and engaging innovation, providing customers with a new and exciting experience.”

“This insight led Tops daily to become the first in Thailand to introduce this concept, creating    a fun and accessible way for customers to enjoy delicious, healthy smoothies. This initiative represents a significant step forward in elevating convenience stores, perfectly aligning with Tops Daily’s ‘Joy-venience Store’ concept, which aims to bring even more enjoyment to everyday shopping.”                

Introducing Daily Smoothie by Tops daily – an automated smoothie machine that delivers an ultra-fresh experience, allowing customers to indulge in self-serve smoothie selections at the touch of a button. In just a few minutes, customers can enjoy a perfectly blended 100% fruit smoothie, providing a refreshing boost to their day.

Daily Smoothie offers three vibrant flavours, each crafted to cater to different taste preferences and lifestyles: 

• Tropical Sunshine Smoothie – A zesty-sw eet blend of mango, passion fruit, and pineapple, capturing the bright and refreshing essence of summer. Perfect for true tropical fruit lovers seeking an energising boost.
• Green Paradise Smoothie – A health-focused blend of kiwi, green apple, and pineapple, delivering a naturally sweet and smooth flavour. This easy-to-drink option is ideal for health-conscious consumers looking for a nutritious pick-me-up throughout the day.
• Berrylicious Smoothie – A delightfully tangy-sweet combination of strawberries and blueberries, perfectly balanced with the smooth creaminess of ripe bananas. Packed with essential vitamins, this berry-packed treat is a flavourful and nutritious indulgence.

Indulge in full-flavoured refreshment with Daily Smoothie, the cutting-edge automated smoothie machine designed to deliver freshly blended goodness in every cup. Choose from three vibrant flavours and styles, perfect for every health-conscious lifestyle. Enjoy the freshest smoothie experience today at participating Tops daily branches. 

For more details, visit www.tops.co.th, follow us on Facebook at TopsThailand, or connect with us via LINE @TopsThailand.

#Tops #EveryDayDISCOVERY

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Tops, under Central Retail, Invites You to Celebrate All-American Valentine’s with a Parade of Premium Made-in-USA Products at ‘Discover USA: Love at First Bite’

Bangkok, 11 February 2025 — Tops, the food business under Central Retail, is set to create an extraordinary American-style Valentine’s experience with the launch of ‘Discover USA: Love at First Bite’. This special event brings a taste of the USA straight to Thailand, featuring a parade of iconic products and premium ingredients from all the USA states.

From beloved sweet treats to top-quality ingredients, shoppers can indulge in over 1,500 items sourced directly from the USA. This campaign reaffirms the ‘Every Day DISCOVERY’ concept, inviting customers to uncover new and exciting experiences every day. Celebrate the season of love with exceptional flavours, heartwarming gifts, and exclusive promotions. Join us for this unique celebration from 8-15 February 2025 at participating Tops and Tops Food Hall branches.

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, offering a special opportunity for people to express their feelings and strengthen connections with their loved ones in countless ways. Among these, gift-giving stands out as a universal love language, adding a memorable touch to heartfelt moments. To make this Valentine’s Day even more extraordinary, Tops has partnered with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Thailand to host ‘Discover USA: Love at First Bite’. This exclusive event showcases a thoughtfully curated selection of premium USA products, allowing shoppers to experience the charm of the USA without leaving Thailand.

Immerse yourself in an authentic American experience infused with a romantic Valentine’s vibe through three special highlights that Tops has carefully selected to delight and inspire. Get ready to explore:

• Sweetheart Treats — Fall head over heels with America’s most beloved sweets and treats, perfect for sharing with someone special. Discover heart-shaped cookies, vibrant pink and red candies, and decadent chocolate-covered delights. Don’t miss the ultra-creamy, smooth ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s, a Vermont iconic sweet treat, and the fruity, chewy goodness of Fruit Roll-Ups, a snack sensation among American teens from the state of New York.

• Fruits of Love — Celebrate love with nature’s juiciest gifts—fresh, flavour-packed fruits grown with care in the USA’s finest orchards. Enjoy the vibrant, seedless Navel Oranges from California, bursting with sweet, zesty flavour, and crisp, succulent Red Apples from Washington, known for their perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
• Creamy Indulgence — Treat yourself to the rich, creamy world of America’s finest dairy products. Savour premium cheeses, speciality yoghurts, and unique butters. Highlights include the bold, spicy Jalapeño Cheddar from Vintage, crafted using traditional recipes for an intense flavour and irresistible texture, and silky-smooth cream cheese from Casade Dairy, straight from California. But that’s not all—over 1,500 premium products from across the USA await your discovery. Indulge in Alaskan Black Cod, celebrated for its high Omega-3 content, low fat, and melt-in-your-mouth texture; delicate, low-calorie Sole Fish with its naturally sweet, tender flesh, perfect for health enthusiasts; and USDA-certified premium USA beef from Texas, renowned for its exceptional tenderness and rich, juicy flavour.

The grand opening of ‘Discover USA: Love at First Bite’ was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Patrick Packnett, Associate Administrator Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), USDA, Washington DC, who officiated the event and explored the diverse range of American products on display. Welcoming him were key executives from Central Group, including Mrs. Supatra Chirathivat, Executive Vice President, Office of Policy Management for Corporate Relations and CSR, Central Group; Mrs. Nongnuth Phetcharatana, Advisor to Central Group; Mrs. Sujitra Phengoun, Chief Operating Officer, Central Food Retail under Central Retail; Mr. Thanawat Jirajariyavej, Chief Merchandising Officer, Central Food Retail under Central Retail; Mr. Chakkit Chatupanyachotikul, Head of Marketing, Public Relations & CSV, Central Food Retail under Central Retail; The event also featured special appearances from the executive team, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Additionally, as part of the campaign, Pongtawat ‘Chef Ian’ Chalermkittichai, one of Thailand’s top chefs, famed for his appearances on Iron Chef tv programme and as a judge on various national cooking competitions, has shared his creative inspirations, demonstrating how to craft exclusive dishes using premium American ingredients available only at Tops. Highlights included: Frozen Alaskan Cod, prized for its rich flavour and delicate texture; Spectrum Avocado Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar, ideal for health-conscious foodies; A variety of premium Wisconsin cheeses from ORA Life, each offering unique textures and tastes; and finally, King Arthur Unbleached Bread Flour, perfect for artisanal baking to create a heartfelt experience through new menu creations for the season of love, you can watch the cooking demonstration on Facebook or Instagram at Tops Food Hall.

Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable Valentine’s memories at ‘Discover USA: Love at First Bite’, where love meets flavour in true American style. Enjoy exclusive promotions to make your shopping spree even more rewarding.

Special Offer: Spend 1,000 baht or more on participating USA products per receipt and receive a 100-baht gift voucher for free!  Extra Perks for The 1 Expat: Get additional privileges through  The 1 App—enjoy a 70-baht discount when you spend 800 baht or more on participating USA products per receipt. (Limited to one redemption per member.) Shop from 5 – 18 February 2025 at participating Tops and Tops Food Hall branches.

For more information, visit www.tops.co.th, follow us on Facebook: TopsThailand, or connect through LINE: @TopsThailand.

#Tops #EveryDayDISCOVERY

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Tops under Central Retail Ignites Celebrations for the Year of the Snake with 

‘THE GREAT CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025’ Campaign, Aiming to Boost Nationwide Prosperity and Achieve a 20% Sales Growth

Bangkok, 14 January 2025 — Tops, the food business under Central Retail, remains optimistic about the growth potential of Thailand’s retail sector. Embracing the Year of the Snake with confidence, Tops proudly unveils its first major campaign of the year, ‘THE GREAT CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025’. This ambitious campaign taps into consumer trends and insights from the Chinese New Year season, initiating the strategic ‘The Great 4As’ to meet every customer need. With over 1,500 meticulously selected auspicious products, the campaign promises a seamless shopping experience, complemented by exclusive deals and unbeatable promotions. A special highlight awaits Tops’ top spenders, who will earn the opportunity to join an exclusive trip with Dr Wit Sittivaekin, the campaign’s presenter, presenting the cultural richness of Chinese New Year in a unique way. Aiming to drive a sales growth of over 20%, the campaign allows pre-orders from today until 24 January 2025 at Tops, Tops Food Hall, Tops Fine Food, Tops daily, and through Tops Online.

Mr Chakkit Chatupanyachotikul, Head of Marketing, Public relations and CSV at Central Food Retail under Central Retail, stated, “The Chinese New Year festival represents a key momentum for the retail sector, continuing the vibrancy of the New Year period and generating significant nationwide economic activity. It invigorates nationwide economic activity and brings widespread vibrancy. In 2024, Thailand’s grocery retail market is estimated at 2.0trillion THB in 2024 with full recovery to pre-covid level, we are expecting the market to grow at 4.6% CAGR from 2025-27 reaching the size of 2.3trillion THB (Source: Euromonitor). 

The first quarter of 2025 is anticipated to benefit significantly from government economic stimulus programmes like the ‘EASY e-RECEIPT’ initiative, alongside a continued surge in tourism activity. As Thailand’s leading supermarket chain, Tops recognises this as an opportune time to drive consumer spending. In response, we are rolling out our first major campaign of the year, ‘The Great Chinese New Year 2025,’ to mark the Year of the Snake. This campaign features an extensive array of products and exclusive items, tailored to suit every lifestyle, reaffirming Tops as the ultimate shopping destination for the Chinese New Year season.”

For the campaign THE GREAT CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025, Tops is committed to delivering a fresh, engaging impressive experience to customers. This year, the campaign is guided by consumer behaviour trends for 2025, summarised as the ‘4S Trends’:

1. Smart Spending & Value Equation – Cost-Effectiveness, Ensuring Maximized Value for Money: While Thailand’s economy continues its upward trajectory, supported by government initiatives since 2024, most consumers remain cautious with their spending. They focus on necessity and carefully assess the value of products relative to their prices, ensuring their financial plans are prudent and won’t compromise future liquidity.

2. Self-Healing: Uplifting the Spirit Through Trends and Storytelling: As the economy recovers and societal changes occur daily, Thai consumers increasingly seek emotional fulfilment. This often translates into purchasing aesthetically pleasing, trendsetting, or story-driven products that provide instant joy and a sense of connection.

3. Sustainability – Good for Planet, Good for Soul, Focusing on Long-Lasting Impact: Climate change and frequent natural disasters have shaped consumer preferences for 2025. There is growing support for eco-friendly products made from natural materials and brands that prioritize sustainability in their operations and offerings.

4. Saiyasart – Embracing Beliefs and Mystical Guidance: Despite the digital age’s integration into daily life, 88% of Thais continue to embrace the spiritual belief known as ‘Mutelu’ in their lives. According to the Hakuhodo Institute of Life and Living ASEAN (Thailand), the top five areas where Mutelu believers seek guidance are finances (44%), fortune (17%), health (12%), career (8%), and education or love (3%). Additionally, according to a survey conducted by Krungsri Research, approximately a third of Gen Y and Gen X consumers spend more than THB 1,000 per year on auspicious items. However, baby boomers are the heaviest spenders, with 7% of respondents in this age group spending over THB 5,000 annually.

Mr. Chakkit added that data from Tops’ customers during the Chinese New Year 2024 festivities revealed insightful trends. A significant 54% of shoppers during this period were aged between 35 and 54, covering primarily Gen-Y and Gen-X demographics. Women made up a substantial 76% of the customer base, with 69% residing in Bangkok and its surrounding areas.

The data also highlighted notable growth in spending patterns. Basket size during the Chinese New Year shopping period increased by 23% compared to regular shopping periods. Moreover, pre-orders for Chinese New Year products at Tops saw a remarkable 59% growth compared to 2023. The highest sales peak occurred on the Chinese New Year’s ‘Shopping Day’ where sales surged by 35% compared to usual periods. The top five product categories that dominated sales during the 2024 Chinese New Year period were: 22.2% in fresh fruits and vegetables (Produce), 20.5% in hygiene and cleanliness products (Cleaning), 11.7% in seasonings and cookware (Cooking), 9.4% in meat and seafood products (Meat & Seafood), and 8.6% in home essentials (Home Care).

To align with consumer trends and data insights, Tops has introduced the ‘The Great 3As’ strategy for this year’s Chinese New Year celebration. This innovative approach delivers a refreshed campaign designed to offer exceptional value and unparalleled experiences for customers across all lifestyles. The strategy includes:

• The Great ASSORTMENT: Reinforcing Tops’ expertise in curating the finest products for its customers, this Chinese New Year, Tops presents a spectacular selection of premium foods and ingredients. With over 1,500 handpicked items, our range caters to every generation of consumers. We feature an extensive selection of Fruits (Fruit Destination) with premium quality and symbolic significance, including oranges, apples, pears, and Thai-grown melons engraved with auspicious Chinese characters. For worship rituals, we offer a variety of Worship Offering Sets, such as the special God Cai Shen Ye Set with Worship Paper and budget-friendly Sar Sare Set. Our Auspicious Decoration Sets, include items like Chinese New Year flower vases, traditional boy-and-girl blessing plaques, and red auspicious lanterns. For something truly exclusive, Only at Tops items include the My Choice Healthy Sa Sare Set, a low-fat offering set perfect for health-conscious customers; a Mongkol Premium Seafood Offering Set featuring five luxurious items—lobster, abalone, red snapper, octopus, and prawn; and a Complete Pork Head Offering Set for a traditional touch.

• The Great ANG-PAO: This Chinese New Year, Tops is spreading joy like never before with extraordinary gifts for our loyal customers. Enjoy up to 15% off Ang Pao discounts when you shop at Tops, Tops Fine Food, or Tops Food Hall for every 600 baht spent, or at Tops daily for every 100 baht spent. Additionally, The1 members can maximise their value with special redemptions: exchange 1,600 points for a 250-baht discount on a minimum purchase of 3,000 baht per receipt or use 800 points for a 120-baht discount on a minimum spend of 1,800 baht. These exclusive offers are available across all participating Tops outlets, including Tops, Tops Food Hall, Tops Fine Food, and Tops daily.

• The Great CX with AMBASSADOR: Breaking the mould of traditional Chinese New Year celebrations, Tops embraces its role as a ‘Cultural Leader’ by blending heritage with modernity. This is achieved through thoughtfully curated products and engaging activities. This year, Tops partners with Dr Wit Sittivaekin, a renowned historian, as the campaign ambassador to share fresh insights into the significance of Chinese New Year history. Adding to the excitement, Tops is offering an exclusive trip for The1 members who are among the top 20 spenders during the Chinese New Year campaign. Eligible participants can register through the Tops My Rewards feature on the Tops Thailand LINE app. The trip includes a visit to the sacred Kian An Geng (建安宮 /Jiàn Ān Gōng/) shrine for blessings, followed by a scenic Chao Phraya River cruise. Guests will enjoy fascinating historical tales about Chinese New Year, narrated by Dr Wit Sittivaekin, all while being serenaded by the renowned singer Jennifer Kim. The event will conclude with the presentation of a special gift – a genuine gold pendant from Tops. 

“The objective of Tops for this year’s ‘THE GREAT CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025’ campaign is to establish itself as the ultimate shopping destination for the Chinese New Year celebrations. We aim to be the first supermarket to deliver not only a comprehensive selection of products and great value but also fascinating insights and a unique cultural experience for our customers. This aligns with our ‘Every Day DISCOVERY’ philosophy, inviting customers to uncover something extraordinary every day at Tops. Additionally, the campaign aims to stimulate the country’s economic activity in the first quarter, with a target to boost sales by over 20%,” stated Mr Chakkit.

Kickstart your Chinese New Year shopping with unbeatable pre-order promotions. From today until 24 January 2025, pre-order festive essentials worth 1,500 baht or more per receipt to receive a Tops Gift Voucher worth 150 baht, redeemable at Tops, Tops Food Hall, or Tops Fine Food. Alternatively, pre-order items worth 800 baht or more per receipt to enjoy an instant discount of 100 baht at Tops daily.

Take advantage of these incredible deals available until 28 January 2025 at participating branches of Tops, Tops Food Hall, Tops Fine Food, and Tops daily, or conveniently shop through Tops Online and the Personal Shopper service. For terms and conditions or more information, visit www.tops.co.th, TopsThailand on Facebook, or add us on LINE at @TopsThailand.

#Tops #EveryDayDISCOVERY #TheGreatChineseNewYear2025

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Tops under Central Retail welcomes 2025 with three new branches in tourist hotspots: Samui, Phangan, and Kamala, catering to the Surge in Tourism Demand, aiming to become Thailand’s largest supermarket chain.

Bangkok, 8 January 2025 — Tops, the food business under Central Retail, is accelerating its expansion strategy as it welcomes 2025. With a goal of reaching 1,000 branches by 2026, Tops has expanded its presence in Southern Thailand’s premier tourist locations by launching three new stores: Tops Haven Samui and Tops Phangan in Surat Thani Province, and Tops Kamala in Phuket. These new branches are set to meet the high demand during Thailand’s tourism high season. Each location offers over 10,000 premium products tailored to meet the needs of international tourists with high purchasing power. The expansion not only enhances the shopping experience for customers but also boosts local employment opportunities, solidifying Tops’ position as a Food Discovery & Destination brand for over 28 years.

Mr Stephane Coum, Chief Executive Officer of the Food Group, Central Retail, stated, “According to the latest data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), international tourist arrivals in 2024 increased by an impressive 26% compared to the previous year. Additionally, information from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports confirms that Southern Thailand generated the highest tourism revenue, approximately 660 billion baht.

In response to this growth, Tops is expanding its footprint in Southern Thailand’s prime locations with the launch of three new stores: Tops Haven Samui and Tops Phangan in Surat Thani Province, and Tops Kamala in Phuket. These openings aim to attract both local and international customers, supporting the region’s economic and tourism growth.

Aligned with our vision of becoming a ‘Truly World-Class Omni-Channel Lifestyle Food Retail’ brand, we are committed to reaching 1,000 branches within two years, or by 2026. This expansion not only enhances market accessibility but also creates employment opportunities within the local communities, reinforcing our ambition to become Thailand’s largest supermarket chain that prioritises both market growth and community empowerment.” Tops has already established 28 branches in key tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Songkhla. Insights reveal an average customer growth of 9% per branch. This highlights the strong growth potential of branches located in tourist cities, aligning with the resurgence of international tourist arrivals to Thailand this year, a trend expected to continue in 2025.

To capitalise on this growth, Tops has launched three new branches in prime Southern Thailand tourist locations: Tops Haven Samui and Tops Phangan in Surat Thani Province, and Tops Kamala in Phuket. These branches, inaugurated at the end of 2024, are designed to cater to the needs of both local and international customers in these vibrant areas. 

The highlights of each branch include:

Tops Haven Samui in Surat Thani Province: A New International Shopping Destination and Must-Visit Spot for Tourists on Koh Samui

Tops Haven Samui spans an impressive 870 square metres and is located within the newly opened Haven Samui Community Mall. Situated on Chaweng Beach, the longest stretch of pristine white sand on Koh Samui, it is surrounded by over 50 three- to five-star hotels. The branch is ideally positioned to cater to more than 14,000 Thai and international customers daily, with most visitors within walking distance.

This all-encompassing shopping destination offers a curated selection of over 15,000 products tailored to meet the diverse needs of tourists. Shoppers can find everything from daily essentials and imported fresh produce to premium meats, frozen foods, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, freshly baked bread, and beverages. Tops Haven Samui ensures a seamless and comprehensive shopping experience for all.

Tops Phangan in Surat Thani Province: The First Supermarket on the Main Road Connecting Haad Rin and Thong Sala, Offering a Curated Selection for International Tourists

Tops Phangan is strategically located in the heart of the island’s main commercial area, on the key road linking Haad Rin and Thong Sala. Covering 550 square metres, the store is surrounded by over 70 three- to five-star hotels. According to Tops’ market research, 60% of visitors to Koh Phangan are European, making this location an ideal choice for its newest branch.

The store offers an extensive range of over 11,000 premium and exclusive products sourced from around the globe. Specialising in imported goods tailored to Western lifestyles and cooking preferences, Tops Phangan also features a selection of locally crafted Thai products perfect for souvenirs. As the first supermarket on the route between Haad Rin and Thong Sala, it provides a seamless shopping experience, catering to tourists every day of the year.

Tops Kamala Beach in Phuket: The First Premium Supermarket on Kamala Beach, Showcasing World-Class Products

Tops Kamala Beach in Phuket is the first premium supermarket on the tranquil two-kilometre stretch of Kamala Beach, a popular destination for both Thai and international tourists. With approximately 34,000 visitors circulating daily, Kamala Beach is a prime location poised for further growth, supported by upcoming luxury real estate projects catering to high-spending travellers.

Spanning over 950 square metres, Tops Kamala Beach offers a comprehensive selection of over 17,000 items, including fresh produce, premium meats, imported ingredients, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, freshly baked goods, and everyday essentials. The store creates a shopping experience akin to browsing top-tier international supermarkets, perfectly suited to the discerning needs of tourists.

In addition to its extensive range, the supermarket is complemented by renowned outlets such as McDonald’s, Fruit Fusion on The Go, King Kebab, and Five Star Chicken, along with a Money Exchange service for added convenience. Tops Kamala Beach redefines the shopping experience on Phuket’s serene shoreline. “Through our strategic expansion efforts, Tops now operates 16 branches across southern Thailand. We remain steadfast in our commitment to opening new stores in high-potential locations that cater to the needs of shoppers in each tourist destination, while continually crafting fresh, innovative experiences for our customers to solidify our position as a premier Food Discovery & Destination.

Beyond driving business growth, Tops places great emphasis on contributing to local economies by creating job opportunities and supporting community and SME products. This approach reinforces the strength of Thailand’s economy and aligns with our mission to ensure shared success for everyone,” concluded Mr Stephane Coum.

Tops Haven Samui and Tops Phangan in Surat Thani, and Tops Kamala in Phuket are now officially open! Offering a wide range of premium items, from gourmet foods to essential goods, these stores are tailored to meet the needs of avid travellers. Don’t miss out on exclusive promotions available only at Tops! For more information, visit www.tops.co.th, TopsThailand on Facebook, or LINE @TopsThailand. 

#Tops #EveryDayDISCOVERY