Published on June 24, 2005

IBM Thailand will set up a branch office in Chiang Mai this year, focusing on corporations, manufacturers, wholesale and retail outlets, insurance agencies and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the North.

Suphajee Suthumpun, IBM’s country manager, said the IT market in the North has a high growth potential, especially for SMEs and corporations.

The company also plans future offices in the South and Northeast.

“We believe it’s the right time to enter the northern market. With partners, we can sell products to help local companies transfer traditional business to new infrastructure, thus enhancing productivity and service quality,” said Suphajee.

Jedesada Kraisingkorn, IBM Thailand’s country manager for manufacturing and industry, said IBM sells customised products to SMEs to increase their flexibility, enhance IT security, drive products and differentiate services.

She added that initially, the company would meet customers’ requirements in business, infrastructure and enabling technology and products via business partners and strategic-partnership collaboration. The company will also set up a special centre for small businesses.

IBM is currently scouting for a location for its Chiang Mai office.

Thongchai Lukuan, managing director of Chi Chang Computer, a local computer dealer and IBM business partner, said the IT market in the North has seen solid growth of more than 25 per cent, and IT users up there have an lifestyle that is similar to users in Bangkok.

“Chiang Mai IT users’ behaviour and lifestyle are moving towards the use of IT products and services. Meanwhile, business users are starting to adapt new technology to create competitiveness and enhance productivity,” said Thongchai.

Jirapan Boonnoon

The Nation

Chiang Mai

jirapan@nationgroup.com

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