The prices bid were between Bt8,000 and Bt9,500 per tonne, compared with the market price of Bt9,300. The ministry has not yet finalised the bidding results. - The Nation.

pretzel chain

Thai Auntie Anne's mushrooming

Thailand is the world's fastest-growing market for US-based Auntie Anne's, in terms of both store expansion and sales, says the Central Restaurants Group, the local franchisee of the quick-service restaurant for hand-rolled soft pretzels.

The company plans to open more than 100 Auntie Anne's restaurants in the next three to five years. There are currently 79 outlets: 57 in Bangkok and 22 upcountry.

Marketing manager Siripa Lapanawin said the company opened nearly 30 outlets in Thailand last year, and another 20 are on tap for this year, including in Phuket and on Koh Samui. This year's expansion will cost about Bt80 million. - The Nation.

jewellery

Maubossin bridal rings in Bangkok

Maubossin, the 179-year-old French jewellery manufacturer, plans to be the leader in Thailand's bridal-ring market in one year and the world market in five.

Director-general Alain Nemarq said Moubossin went international two years ago after a long history of manufacturing general high-end jewellery. It opened its first store in Thailand, worth Bt20 million, in Siam Paragon shopping complex on January 28.

Maubossin (Thailand) director Belinda J Chatsuwan said the firm expected revenues of about Bt50 million in its first year of operations. To achieve its sales target, the company will set up a special-events campaign, including inviting its target customers to view new jewellery every month. - The Nation.