Isspa thrives abroad

Isspa has cast its eyes abroad as domestic demand for spa products has been slumping.

"I decided to go abroad before entering the domestic market because I believed that I could earn more money that way. Competition here is also fierce, while the economy is not recovering. There is no purchasing power here," Kunchana Dumrongchai, executive marketing manager, said last week.

"So, if I have enough money and Thai consumer confidence comes back, I will turn my business back to Thailand. I also plan to open my own spa product shop in three to four years," she said.

The firm makes Isspa-brand spa products such as bath and shower creams, aromatic salt scrubs, body lotions, massage oils, shampoos and conditioners. The products are differentiated by their image, which is designed to appeal to the young.

Kunchana said she launched her business one year ago and decided to penetrate the overseas market due to the drop in  purchasing power here.

Isspa spa products are now exported to Middle East countries such as Dubai as well as to Australia.

"People in the Middle East have high purchasing power, while it is boom time for the spa business there. So, product orders for one year of operation are quite okay," she said.

Agents in those countries distribute the products to four-star hotels and the retail trade.

Nalin Viboonchart

The Nation