Amway to build new Bt992 mn Thai headquarter

The move marks a strong, long-term commitment to maintaining its local momentum.

Located on Ramkhamhaeng Road, the new office complex, on 10 rai, will feature space of more than 35,000 square metres. The new headquarters will also provide ultimate convenience to 1 million Amway business-owners and members.

"We're working on designing the details of the new Amway complex, which will include an Amway shop, office building and an eight-floor parking lot," said Preecha Prakobkit, managing director of Amway (Thailand).

"It will also feature a conference room that can accommodate 1,000 people, while the office building itself can accommodate up to 500 staff."

He said the company foresaw continued expansion of its business in Thailand, confirmed by 15-per-cent sales growth to a record Bt13.3 billion last year.

"The new local headquarters will support our expansion plan and our aspiration to achieve annual sales of Bt20 billion in 2012," Preecha said.

He said construction of the new headquarters would start in this year's fourth quarter and be completed by 2012. The new complex will cater to Amway's business growth in Thailand for the next 30 years.

"The design of the new Amway headquarters will embrace the green concept, to enable energy savings and create a cosy, relaxing ambience along with a sense of freedom, modernity and security," said Preecha.

He said Amway enjoyed a 27-per-cent share of Thailand's Bt45-billion direct-sales market. The overall market is expected to grow 10 per cent this year.

"We see a strong potential for the direct-sales industry in Thailand, which now represents less than 1 per cent of the total Bt3-trillion retail industry," Preecha said.

Kittawat Ritteerawee, general manager for business relations and marketing, said: "In 2009, Amway posted record sales of Bt13.3 billion, representing 15-per-cent growth, 60 per cent of which came from our health and beauty products.

"This year, we'll continue our emphasis on quality offerings in health and beauty, with a comprehensive product portfolio that covers different needs for all segments."

Kittawat said more Amway Shops would be opened this year, to increase consumers' accessibility to Amway brands.

A Bt750-million budget for marketing, sales promotion, advertising, public relations and other relevant activities will be aimed at retaining present customers while reaching out to new ones, he added.