Arcade game firm Galaxy Edu-Hitech hires a presenter to polish its image

convince and show the public that the games can also have

a good future like any other business," marketing manager Piti Jongrakrawewan said last week.

Arcades have been perceived as a bad place for children and youngsters to play at for quite a long time even though the company has given all its 97 branches nationwide a bright atmosphere, he said.

Online games, with their advanced digital technology, and fierce competitors have also greatly challenged the company.

Having a top gamer as a presenter will promote the positive side of playing games, he said.

It will also show society that playing games requires special skills, which could develop them into famous international gamers or game consultants for well-known companies, or into athletes in specific sports.

The company has been arranging marketing activities throughout the past 20 years but this is the first time it has come up with the idea of working to create a good image.

The presenter will go around Galaxy's branches and join in marketing activities with players and the public.

Rungkit Tasanon was selected as the first presenter and he

will be on duty for six months, starting early this month. He was also accepted to work at Galaxy as a marketing and event officer.

The company will hold a tournament late this year with four game types - shooting, fighting, racing and puzzles - to find the next four presenters.

Youngsters aged 13-20 are Galaxy's largest customer group. Its two other groups are children below 13 and working people 20 years old and up.

Its marketing strategy for the children's group is arranging family activities and tournaments. For adults, It schedules regular competitions that fit specific groups in each game type.

Its marketing and advertising budget this year is set at 10 per cent of expected revenue, with most of the budget going to its youngster group.

The economic uncertainties are a worry for the company, as Piti understands that its business is a non-core activity in daily life.

The company expects its revenue growth this year to slow down to 10-12 per cent.

The youngster group continues to have the highest potential as kids have the lowest economic sensitivity, he added.