Thailand: Lawson plans 1k stores in five years
New store openings and existing store conversions
The Japanese convenience chain currently trades 31 stores in Thailand to date and will invest more than THB2 billion (c. US$61 million) in its push to take on market leading retailer 7-Eleven. Lawson in Thailand operates as a joint venture with Thai conglomerate Saha Group and will open between 100 to 150 company-owned Lawson 108 stores in 2015. As part of its expansion Saha Group will convert approximately 108 of its 200 '108 Shop' convenience stores to the 'Lawson 108' banner. In 2016 it will start opening its first stores under a franchise model, with the business targeting about half of its stores to be operating under franchise agreements in five years time.
Thailand part of broader expansion plans
Lawson clearly see Thailand as a growth market in Asia and are also reported to be looking at the market as a regional hub for its research and development. In order to differentiate itself from its competitors it plans to focus its offer on freshly prepared ready to eat meals, with more than 20 dishes available at prices under THB49 (c. US$1.50). Lawson is expanding its business in many international markets, with 80 stores now trading in Indonesia, plus stores in China, Hawaii and the first stores due to launch in the Philippines next year.
Source: igd.com
