Tat launches overhaul of weak units

TAT board chairman Wanchai Sarathoonthat said two subcommittees had been set up to monitor the units, which need to revise their business strategies, particularly in marketing and direction.

"On marketing plans, the TAT wants clearer strategies to capture new markets and understand the target groups," said Wanchai.

Both companies have been urged to reduce operating costs due to soaring product prices. They have also been advised to work with other government agencies overseas, such as the TAT, Thai embassies and investment promotion units, in searching for new opportunities.

Both TLM and TPC were established by the first Thaksin Shinawatra government to boost tourism, with the TAT holding 100 per cent of Elite Card issuer TPC and 30 per cent in TLM.

TPC has attracted only a few dozen new members this year, still far from its target of 800. In its five years of operation, it has recruited 2,500 foreign members from 60 countries.