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Published on January 30, 2008

Kriengkrai Kanchana-pokin, Index's co-CEO, said yesterday that the new government was expected to launch a number of high-cost projects. He expects the industry to book 10-per-cent revenue growth, from Bt6.5 billion last year.

He forecast that many advisers to the new government would be politicians prohibited from entering politics due to the dissolution of the Thai Rak Thai Party.

In order to tap the expected opportunities, the company is expanding its range of expertise into offering design and construction solutions by buying a 50-per-cent stake in d-63, which is rated among the top 10 companies in the business, with revenue of Bt80 million last year.

"By joining with d-63, Index can fit another piece in the jigsaw, which we have been seeking," Kriengkrai said. "Designing and constructing materials to set up events are very important elements, and it requires a lot of work each time."

He said the company had tried to go it alone since it was established, but failed to perform as well as it might have because it lacked specific know-how and technology.

To overcome this, Index had to hire other design and construction solution providers. However, having d-63 as its business partner should significantly help reduce costs.

Moreover, Index will gain from the transfer of technology in designing and constructing materials in addition to improving its level of expertise.

Kriengkrai said Index would not interfere in d-63's management, but would encourage working flexibility. d-63 has forecast its revenue this year will increase to Bt120 million.

Supalux Suwathi, d-63's managing director, said the two firms had been working together recently. d-63 is awaiting the completion of its new Bt40-million manufacturing plant to boost its operations, he added.

Kriengkrai said Index was also looking for more business alliances, and one avenue being explored is organising trade exhibitions. However, he declined to elaborate on the company's plans.

Nitida Asawanipont

The Nation