Avaya today announced the findings of its “Tuning Into The Channel” survey conducted at its annual Avaya Asia Pacific Business Partner Conference in Beijing, China.
The survey was conducted by Avaya Asia Pacific by polling participants from 20 countries in Asia Pacific who attended the conference.
The survey highlights a positive sentiment within Avaya’s Asia Pacific channel network with 64.6 percent of the respondents expecting to see a demand surge in ICT before the end of 2010 as the economy continues to improve in 2010. Among respondents, 37.7 percent see the SME sector as the biggest driver for this increase over the next 12 months. This positive sentiment is supported by business momentum as 40.5 percent of the Avaya channel partners polled said their customers have identified ‘making selected investments in projects to drive productivity’ as a key strategy over the next 12 months.
Financial Services (27.3 percent) and Telecoms (19.5 percent) are other key sectors identified as driving growth in what in 2010. The survey identified Unified Communications as a big opportunity in 2010 with 36.3 percent of the respondents identifying it as”the best opportunity for 2010”. The survey indicates that as many as 85 percent of channel partner customers prefer to extend and invest in existing systems. As many as 61.5 percent of channel partners polled are considering new contact centre solutions to improve their own customer service capabilities this year..
“The positive sentiment shared by our channel partners is good news for Avaya,” said Chee Heng Loon, director, Channels, Avaya Asia Pacific. “We see a similar reaction from many of our customers following our merger with Nortel Enterprise Solutions in December 2009.Avaya is well-positioned to strengthen our leadership in Asia Pacific,”
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Bangkok Bank offering special deals at Money Expo Pattaya
Bangkok Bank will offer loads of special deals at Money Expo Pattaya 2010, including loans with special interest rates, discounts and free gifts. The bank will feature specially-selected products and services for both Thai and foreign customers residing in Pattaya and in nearby provinces under the theme ‘Financial Navigator’.
Money Expo Pattaya will be held at the PEACH Convention Center, Royal Cliff Beach Resort from 5-7 February 2010.
“Bangkok Bank will be combining specialized products and services to suit the needs of Thai and expatriate customers residing in the eastern region,” said Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President, Head of Provincial Commercial Banking, Piya Sosothikul. “Pattaya City, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chachoengsao and Chanthaburi residents will have an opportunity to seek advice and special deals from Bangkok Bank, Thailand’s largest bank.
“We will be dedicating 120 square meters of floor space and a team of Bangkok Bank financial specialists to help navigate customers toward their personal or business financial goals,” said Mr. Piya.
“As we head into Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year, customers who apply for Bangkok Bank’s products and services at the three-day fair will receive discounts, special offers or free gifts from Bangkok Bank. Bangkok Bank will be offering deals and information on a wide range of products and services, including Bualuang Home Loans; SME Loans; deposits; mutual funds including RMFs and LTFs; bonds and debentures; bancassurance including Gain 1st, PA 1st and Cancer Protection 1st; international funds transfers, personal and business internet banking, Be 1st debit cards and credit cards,” Mr. Piya added.
“I encourage anyone living in Pattaya, Chon Buri and nearby provinces to visit Bangkok Bank’s exhibition to take advantage of these special privileges and offers available at Money Expo Pattaya, and to keep their eyes and ears open for further information on Bangkok Bank’s promotions,” Mr. Piya concluded.
Money Expo Pattaya will be held at the PEACH Convention Center, Royal Cliff Beach Resort from 5-7 February 2010.
“Bangkok Bank will be combining specialized products and services to suit the needs of Thai and expatriate customers residing in the eastern region,” said Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President, Head of Provincial Commercial Banking, Piya Sosothikul. “Pattaya City, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chachoengsao and Chanthaburi residents will have an opportunity to seek advice and special deals from Bangkok Bank, Thailand’s largest bank.
“We will be dedicating 120 square meters of floor space and a team of Bangkok Bank financial specialists to help navigate customers toward their personal or business financial goals,” said Mr. Piya.
“As we head into Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year, customers who apply for Bangkok Bank’s products and services at the three-day fair will receive discounts, special offers or free gifts from Bangkok Bank. Bangkok Bank will be offering deals and information on a wide range of products and services, including Bualuang Home Loans; SME Loans; deposits; mutual funds including RMFs and LTFs; bonds and debentures; bancassurance including Gain 1st, PA 1st and Cancer Protection 1st; international funds transfers, personal and business internet banking, Be 1st debit cards and credit cards,” Mr. Piya added.
“I encourage anyone living in Pattaya, Chon Buri and nearby provinces to visit Bangkok Bank’s exhibition to take advantage of these special privileges and offers available at Money Expo Pattaya, and to keep their eyes and ears open for further information on Bangkok Bank’s promotions,” Mr. Piya concluded.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
KBank and CMBC open borders toward financial service excellence
KASIKORNBANK, in collaboration with China Minsheng Banking Corporation (CMBC), has opened a new chapter in the Sino-Thai banking business, opening the financial frontier between the two countries by merging the service networks of the two banks to allow cross-border services. Both parties target joint lending to Chinese SMEs at 6 billion Baht this year.
Mr. Dong Wenbiao, Deputy Director of the Economic Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Chairman of the Board of Directors of CMBC, chaired the January 28 signing ceremony at Chomphu Phukha Reception Room, KBank’s head office to open the financial frontier between the two nations. The move is aimed to enhance collaboration in financial services for customers of KBank and CMBC. KASIKORNBANK Chief Executive Officer Banthoon Lamsam and Mr. Hong Qi, President and Chief Executive Officer of CMBC, also signed the agreement at the ceremony.
Mr. Dong Wenbiao, Chairman of the Board of Directors of CMBC, said KBank and CMBC have been business partners since 2004. The two banks have together studied and developed a financial service platform and provided loans for SMEs in China with a risk management technique that has provided sound financial management for Chinese mainland SMEs. This joint project has seen significant progress, and has proven successful.
Over the past 5 years, trade between China and ASEAN has risen from USD 59 billion to USD 250 billion. On January 1, 2010, the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (FTA) officially started, with trading volume between the two to be increased to 13 percent of total world trade volume, becoming a major economic community covering 11 countries with a total population of 1.9 billion and combined GDP of USD 6 trillion. The ASEAN-China FTA is the most populous free trade area and the world’s most powerful economic driver among developing countries. Thus, the collaboration between KBank and CMBC in diverse aspects will serve as a strong base to support and provide convenience in business operations between the two countries, which are expected to grow continually.
Mr. Banthoon Lamsam, CEO of KBank, said the Bank has expanded business in China in collaboration with CMBC, China’s leading private bank, by providing credits for SMEs in the Chinese mainland, which is one of the key business strategies of KBank in the country. The joint credit provided for China’s SMEs measured CNY 178 million, or around 900 million Baht. As the SME market in China is quite large, with a huge demand for funding, the Bank has targeted provision of CNY 1.2 billion, or approximately 6 billion Baht, of joint lending in 2010.
Aside from SME lending in China, KBank and CMBC are planning to open the Sino-Thai financial frontier via collaboration among the networks of 400 CMBC branches in China, KBank branch and representative offices in China, and 800 KBank branches in Thailand, in order to directly facilitate trade and investment between customers in the two countries, under the “boundless business” concept.
Thus, the cooperation in business expansion for customers in China and Thailand includes cross-border RMB funds transfer, wealth management such as mutual fund investments, securities trading, and deposits, credits such as syndicated loans and factoring, financial advisory services, derivative services, bancassurance, and exchange of economic and business information between the two banks.
“From now on, KBank customers will be able to use financial services offered by CMBC in China,” Banthoon said. “ For example, KBank and CMBC jointly provide RMB-denominated credits to Thai companies investing in China, and RMB-denominated credits to Chinese companies investing in Thailand. The services also include the Bank’s other financial products in four main groups including deposits, investments, risk management, RMB foreign exchange services, and international trade. Such cooperation is to innovate towards financial service excellence of the two countries in a way that will largely benefit businessmen of both nations.”
In addition, the two banks will exchange knowledge and banking management innovations. KBank is the number-one player among SME businesses in Thailand, and widely recognized as an Asian leader in providing financial services to SMEs under the concept of “Customer Centricity”. The exchange of knowledge in brand building, marketing, product development, and a complete credit management system, in combination with business administration techniques in China from CMBC, will benefit business operations to efficiently serve theneeds of SME customers in China.
Mr. Dong Wenbiao, Deputy Director of the Economic Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Chairman of the Board of Directors of CMBC, chaired the January 28 signing ceremony at Chomphu Phukha Reception Room, KBank’s head office to open the financial frontier between the two nations. The move is aimed to enhance collaboration in financial services for customers of KBank and CMBC. KASIKORNBANK Chief Executive Officer Banthoon Lamsam and Mr. Hong Qi, President and Chief Executive Officer of CMBC, also signed the agreement at the ceremony.
Mr. Dong Wenbiao, Chairman of the Board of Directors of CMBC, said KBank and CMBC have been business partners since 2004. The two banks have together studied and developed a financial service platform and provided loans for SMEs in China with a risk management technique that has provided sound financial management for Chinese mainland SMEs. This joint project has seen significant progress, and has proven successful.
Over the past 5 years, trade between China and ASEAN has risen from USD 59 billion to USD 250 billion. On January 1, 2010, the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (FTA) officially started, with trading volume between the two to be increased to 13 percent of total world trade volume, becoming a major economic community covering 11 countries with a total population of 1.9 billion and combined GDP of USD 6 trillion. The ASEAN-China FTA is the most populous free trade area and the world’s most powerful economic driver among developing countries. Thus, the collaboration between KBank and CMBC in diverse aspects will serve as a strong base to support and provide convenience in business operations between the two countries, which are expected to grow continually.
Mr. Banthoon Lamsam, CEO of KBank, said the Bank has expanded business in China in collaboration with CMBC, China’s leading private bank, by providing credits for SMEs in the Chinese mainland, which is one of the key business strategies of KBank in the country. The joint credit provided for China’s SMEs measured CNY 178 million, or around 900 million Baht. As the SME market in China is quite large, with a huge demand for funding, the Bank has targeted provision of CNY 1.2 billion, or approximately 6 billion Baht, of joint lending in 2010.
Aside from SME lending in China, KBank and CMBC are planning to open the Sino-Thai financial frontier via collaboration among the networks of 400 CMBC branches in China, KBank branch and representative offices in China, and 800 KBank branches in Thailand, in order to directly facilitate trade and investment between customers in the two countries, under the “boundless business” concept.
Thus, the cooperation in business expansion for customers in China and Thailand includes cross-border RMB funds transfer, wealth management such as mutual fund investments, securities trading, and deposits, credits such as syndicated loans and factoring, financial advisory services, derivative services, bancassurance, and exchange of economic and business information between the two banks.
“From now on, KBank customers will be able to use financial services offered by CMBC in China,” Banthoon said. “ For example, KBank and CMBC jointly provide RMB-denominated credits to Thai companies investing in China, and RMB-denominated credits to Chinese companies investing in Thailand. The services also include the Bank’s other financial products in four main groups including deposits, investments, risk management, RMB foreign exchange services, and international trade. Such cooperation is to innovate towards financial service excellence of the two countries in a way that will largely benefit businessmen of both nations.”
In addition, the two banks will exchange knowledge and banking management innovations. KBank is the number-one player among SME businesses in Thailand, and widely recognized as an Asian leader in providing financial services to SMEs under the concept of “Customer Centricity”. The exchange of knowledge in brand building, marketing, product development, and a complete credit management system, in combination with business administration techniques in China from CMBC, will benefit business operations to efficiently serve theneeds of SME customers in China.
Friday, January 29, 2010
New Trade Landscape Emerging for Asia’s SMEs
FedEx-Commissioned Research Reveals Trade Opportunities for Asia’s SMEs Increasingly Linked to Burgeoning Demand from China’s Domestic Market And to Unrealized Potential of FTAs
FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world's largest express transportation company, today released the findings of new research which reveals the challenges and opportunities for Asia’s Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) emerging from the financial crisis towards economic recovery. The study shows that while cost controls remain crucial to survival, SME exporters may benefit from both new sources of consumer demand within Asia, and from the rising volume of trade within the region—especially if more advantage is taken of its many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Entitled “Towards the Recovery: Challenges and Opportunities facing Asia’s SMEs,” FedEx Express commissioned the research from The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The report is based on interviews with corporate officers at SMEs, regional experts and a review of recent studies published by leading authorities, including the Asian Development Bank and national governments in the region.
“Small and medium sized enterprises, which comprise 95% of businesses in the Asia Pacific region and employ nearly 80% of the workforce, play a critical role in the region’s economy and will be vital in its recovery and growth in 2010,” said David L. Cunningham Jr., president, Asia Pacific, FedEx Express.[1] “With demand in the West making a slower recovery than Asia’s rapidly improving economic outlook, this report provides SMEs in the region with an understanding of the new trade dynamics that are emerging here. As a facilitator of trade, we believe the report’s insights will help SMEs to evaluate these new opportunities and tap into the regional recovery underway in Asia.”
One of the report’s key findings examines how SMEs stand to benefit from two new interlocking dynamics within the economies of the Asia Pacific region. The first is a need to rebalance economies in the region to reduce their reliance on consumers in developed Western markets and turn their attention towards domestic demand.
The second is intra-regional trade, by which SMEs in smaller markets in Asia may take advantage of increasing consumer demand in the region’s developing giant economies, namely China.
Against a backdrop of slow economic recovery in the West, Asian SMEs would benefit from an emerging customer base within the region. There are signs that China may be able to provide this, as its middle class becomes wealthier and policy makers seek to rebalance its economy away from a reliance on exports and towards domestic demand.
In fact, in the first three quarters of 2009, China’s retail sales grew by 15.1% year-on-year, almost as fast as before the financial crisis. The buoyant Chinese economy has the potential to anchor a new region wide trade dynamic, with China not just an assembly point for exports to Western markets, but as a final destination for goods from other Asian countries.
“Throughout this decade we have witnessed the flow of goods into China as it has acted as the assembly line for the region, and then exports out of China to the West. This research shows that Asian consumerism is a force that will lead the region back to prosperity,” Mr. Cunningham said. “FedEx is committed to assisting SMEs seek out emerging trade opportunities within and across the Asia Pacific region through our intra-Asia network which connects 22 major cities. Coupled with our flexible services we can help position SMEs to be even more competitive in today’s rapidly changing business environment.”
Linked to this trend of increasing intra-regional trade is the proliferation of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) that have been signed over recent years in an effort by Asian economies to promote more trade with each other. As of mid-2009 these economies concluded 54 FTA’s among themselves and with countries outside the region. Most recently, an FTA between China and the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) went into effect on January 1st, 2010. This will create a common market of some 1.7 billion people and under the agreement, 90% of goods traded between China and ASEAN’s six richest member states now enjoy zero tariffs.
The trade preferences offered by FTAs represent a major opportunity for SMEs in the region to grow their cross border business. However, the research points to the fact that many SMEs, with their limited resources to handle multiple tariff schedules and document requirements, do not yet know how to make use of FTA provisions. It is clear that better official guidance and information is necessary if SMEs are to take advantage of Asia’s evolving trade dynamics.
“FedEx is a supporter of any act or process that facilitates trade,” Cunningham said. “Confusing customs regulations, duties and taxes remain one of the biggest barriers for SMEs in accessing international markets, which is why FedEx offers dedicated software solutions that help small business expand their reach quickly and simply.”
One such example is FedEx Global Trade Manager, an online tool that simplifies international shipping by identifying the documents needed for shipping to more than 200 countries. The free, online resource even calculates various taxes and duties needed in the process.
“We commissioned this research recognizing the importance of SMEs to the region’s economy and also to the future development of the express market. Today’s international exporters are not major multinational companies, but small businesses,” Cunningham said. “FedEx helps small business owners go global from day one through greater access and its tailored portfolio designed to meet the unique needs of SMEs with personalized services, innovations, tools and discounts focused on value, reliability, reach and service. It is particularly satisfying to see these services as being increasingly relevant in Asia’s changing economies.”
FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world's largest express transportation company, today released the findings of new research which reveals the challenges and opportunities for Asia’s Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) emerging from the financial crisis towards economic recovery. The study shows that while cost controls remain crucial to survival, SME exporters may benefit from both new sources of consumer demand within Asia, and from the rising volume of trade within the region—especially if more advantage is taken of its many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Entitled “Towards the Recovery: Challenges and Opportunities facing Asia’s SMEs,” FedEx Express commissioned the research from The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The report is based on interviews with corporate officers at SMEs, regional experts and a review of recent studies published by leading authorities, including the Asian Development Bank and national governments in the region.
“Small and medium sized enterprises, which comprise 95% of businesses in the Asia Pacific region and employ nearly 80% of the workforce, play a critical role in the region’s economy and will be vital in its recovery and growth in 2010,” said David L. Cunningham Jr., president, Asia Pacific, FedEx Express.[1] “With demand in the West making a slower recovery than Asia’s rapidly improving economic outlook, this report provides SMEs in the region with an understanding of the new trade dynamics that are emerging here. As a facilitator of trade, we believe the report’s insights will help SMEs to evaluate these new opportunities and tap into the regional recovery underway in Asia.”
One of the report’s key findings examines how SMEs stand to benefit from two new interlocking dynamics within the economies of the Asia Pacific region. The first is a need to rebalance economies in the region to reduce their reliance on consumers in developed Western markets and turn their attention towards domestic demand.
The second is intra-regional trade, by which SMEs in smaller markets in Asia may take advantage of increasing consumer demand in the region’s developing giant economies, namely China.
Against a backdrop of slow economic recovery in the West, Asian SMEs would benefit from an emerging customer base within the region. There are signs that China may be able to provide this, as its middle class becomes wealthier and policy makers seek to rebalance its economy away from a reliance on exports and towards domestic demand.
In fact, in the first three quarters of 2009, China’s retail sales grew by 15.1% year-on-year, almost as fast as before the financial crisis. The buoyant Chinese economy has the potential to anchor a new region wide trade dynamic, with China not just an assembly point for exports to Western markets, but as a final destination for goods from other Asian countries.
“Throughout this decade we have witnessed the flow of goods into China as it has acted as the assembly line for the region, and then exports out of China to the West. This research shows that Asian consumerism is a force that will lead the region back to prosperity,” Mr. Cunningham said. “FedEx is committed to assisting SMEs seek out emerging trade opportunities within and across the Asia Pacific region through our intra-Asia network which connects 22 major cities. Coupled with our flexible services we can help position SMEs to be even more competitive in today’s rapidly changing business environment.”
Linked to this trend of increasing intra-regional trade is the proliferation of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) that have been signed over recent years in an effort by Asian economies to promote more trade with each other. As of mid-2009 these economies concluded 54 FTA’s among themselves and with countries outside the region. Most recently, an FTA between China and the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) went into effect on January 1st, 2010. This will create a common market of some 1.7 billion people and under the agreement, 90% of goods traded between China and ASEAN’s six richest member states now enjoy zero tariffs.
The trade preferences offered by FTAs represent a major opportunity for SMEs in the region to grow their cross border business. However, the research points to the fact that many SMEs, with their limited resources to handle multiple tariff schedules and document requirements, do not yet know how to make use of FTA provisions. It is clear that better official guidance and information is necessary if SMEs are to take advantage of Asia’s evolving trade dynamics.
“FedEx is a supporter of any act or process that facilitates trade,” Cunningham said. “Confusing customs regulations, duties and taxes remain one of the biggest barriers for SMEs in accessing international markets, which is why FedEx offers dedicated software solutions that help small business expand their reach quickly and simply.”
One such example is FedEx Global Trade Manager, an online tool that simplifies international shipping by identifying the documents needed for shipping to more than 200 countries. The free, online resource even calculates various taxes and duties needed in the process.
“We commissioned this research recognizing the importance of SMEs to the region’s economy and also to the future development of the express market. Today’s international exporters are not major multinational companies, but small businesses,” Cunningham said. “FedEx helps small business owners go global from day one through greater access and its tailored portfolio designed to meet the unique needs of SMEs with personalized services, innovations, tools and discounts focused on value, reliability, reach and service. It is particularly satisfying to see these services as being increasingly relevant in Asia’s changing economies.”
Sunday, January 17, 2010
TCDC and Department of Industrial Promotion signs MOU in “Product Design and Development for Creative Industry SMEs”
TCDC and Department of Industrial Promotion signs MOU in “Product Design and Development for Creative Industry SMEs” project to give Thai SMEs competitive edge in international market
Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) has joined forces with the Department of Industrial Promotion, Ministry of Industry, in a bid to broaden business opportunity for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the nation by signing an MOU for collaboration in ‘Product Design and Development for Creative Industry SMEs’ project. The major project takes the Creative Thailand scheme off to a flying start in the Year of the Golden Tiger with an aim to raise business operation standard and capability of creative industry entrepreneurs in Thailand for greater competitiveness in the global market.
Mr. Apisit Laistrooglai, Managing Director of Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), provided background about the partnership: “As a specialized institute of The Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD) under supervision of The Office of the Prime Minister, TCDC undertakes a mission as the center of knowledge resources in design and creativity with a role to create public awareness of the economic value of design under “Creative Economy” concept. TCDC has therefore implemented a proactive action plan with special emphasis on strengthening business capability of the entrepreneurs through a year-round series of activities.”
“TCDC has previously provided opportunities for entrepreneurs from all industries to take part in Ploy Saeng Festival,” he continued. “At the festival, entrepreneurs and owners of products with high business potential were also recruited into a special workshop under a ‘Handmade Profit” Project’, which is a pilot project to support new entrepreneurs and increase visibility of Thai products and services in the international market. However, TCDC wishes to keep expanding these services by increasing accessibility of SMEs nationwide to the knowledge resources and introduce them to the community of creative industries. We have therefore partnered with various local and international organizations in a continued effort to boost the potential of Thai designers and entrepreneurs by building an expansive business development network. For instance, TCDC has recently signed an MOU with Taiwan Design Center in an initiative to hold the International Design Alliance (IDA) Congress 2011, which will be comparatively regarded as the Olympics of designers around the world. The event will serve as a springboard and business networking channel for Thai designers and entrepreneurs in their entrance into the global market.”
And most recently, TCDC has signed an MOU with the Department of Industrial Promotion, Ministry of Industry, to implement ‘Product Design and Development for Creative Industry SMEs’ project to help creative industry SMEs enhance the image of their products. The project emphasizes on bringing development and extending business opportunity to SMEs in four creative industries covering 15 fields of business: handicrafts, cultural and biodiversity-friendly tourism, Thai traditional medicine, Thai food, performing arts, visual arts, cinematography and videography, printing, broadcasting, music, design, fashion, architecture, advertising, and software. According to the database of the Department of Industrial Promotion, entrepreneurs in these fields of business make up more than half of the department’s database of 2.8 million registered entrepreneurs nationwide.
In the initial phase, the two partner organizations will jointly recruit 100 entrepreneurs into the project. Selected entrepreneurs are required to attend workshops and seminars to be held during the first month of the program, which will revolve around fundamental knowledge for creative industry entrepreneurs. The subjects include basic understanding of creative economy and interconnection of SMEs as part of creative economy development, creativity in product development, relevance of materials in creative product development, intellectual property rights, sources of business funding, marketing of products and services in modern market environment with insightful understanding of market demands, and case studies from entrepreneurs who have taken part in TCDC’s earlier project to ‘bring conceptual design to commercial production’. The training will be provided by experts from TCDC and many other related organizations, such as Thammasat University, the Department of Intellectual Property, and Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME Bank). After that, the number of project participants will be halved down to 50 entrepreneurs with well-balanced variety of products. The cut will be based on business development potential as well as commitment and financial capability of the entrepreneurs.
The qualified entrepreneurs will, during the second and third month of the program, attend another series of workshops for more in-depth training. The subjects include product uniqueness and differentiation, product classification for effective product development, cost analysis, production capacity, target customer analysis, product prototyping, packaging design and development, sales channels, market testing, and customer feedback survey for improvement. TCDC will along the way evaluate the improvements in terms of product quality, development, as well as marketing potential in local and international markets. Upon completion of the program, the entrepreneurs are expected to come up with a product with add-on development or a new product creation. Successful participants will be given the opportunities to be part of Ploy Saeng Festival: Create/Make/Earn and sell their products at The Shop@ TCDC.
According to Mr. Arthit Wuthikaro, Director-General of the Department of Industrial Promotion, the project coincides with the department’s mission and the department is clearly aware of TCDC’s role and objectives in supporting SMEs and increasing their accessibility to knowledge resources in creativity and design. With this opportunity for business growth, the SMEs can make their contributions by raising the standard of products and services to achieve marketability in both Thai and foreign markets.
The department will play its part in this project by recruiting and screening participants from its database of registered SMEs nationwide. Prospective SMEs will be classified by their field of business and consideration of the SMEs that meet initial criteria of the project also takes account of their physical profile. The list of selected SMEs will be sent to TCDC for more thorough analysis and consideration. In addition to this, in-depth information about the SMEs will be shared with TCDC, particularly in terms of their business operation, problems, and limitations, as well as recommendations about additional resources that the SMEs would need for their creative business development. The contribution is an effort to fulfill the needs and expand the opportunity of creative industry entrepreneurs in Thailand by providing them the ground for development and the channels to present their creative products to the public.
Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) has joined forces with the Department of Industrial Promotion, Ministry of Industry, in a bid to broaden business opportunity for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the nation by signing an MOU for collaboration in ‘Product Design and Development for Creative Industry SMEs’ project. The major project takes the Creative Thailand scheme off to a flying start in the Year of the Golden Tiger with an aim to raise business operation standard and capability of creative industry entrepreneurs in Thailand for greater competitiveness in the global market.
Mr. Apisit Laistrooglai, Managing Director of Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), provided background about the partnership: “As a specialized institute of The Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD) under supervision of The Office of the Prime Minister, TCDC undertakes a mission as the center of knowledge resources in design and creativity with a role to create public awareness of the economic value of design under “Creative Economy” concept. TCDC has therefore implemented a proactive action plan with special emphasis on strengthening business capability of the entrepreneurs through a year-round series of activities.”
“TCDC has previously provided opportunities for entrepreneurs from all industries to take part in Ploy Saeng Festival,” he continued. “At the festival, entrepreneurs and owners of products with high business potential were also recruited into a special workshop under a ‘Handmade Profit” Project’, which is a pilot project to support new entrepreneurs and increase visibility of Thai products and services in the international market. However, TCDC wishes to keep expanding these services by increasing accessibility of SMEs nationwide to the knowledge resources and introduce them to the community of creative industries. We have therefore partnered with various local and international organizations in a continued effort to boost the potential of Thai designers and entrepreneurs by building an expansive business development network. For instance, TCDC has recently signed an MOU with Taiwan Design Center in an initiative to hold the International Design Alliance (IDA) Congress 2011, which will be comparatively regarded as the Olympics of designers around the world. The event will serve as a springboard and business networking channel for Thai designers and entrepreneurs in their entrance into the global market.”
And most recently, TCDC has signed an MOU with the Department of Industrial Promotion, Ministry of Industry, to implement ‘Product Design and Development for Creative Industry SMEs’ project to help creative industry SMEs enhance the image of their products. The project emphasizes on bringing development and extending business opportunity to SMEs in four creative industries covering 15 fields of business: handicrafts, cultural and biodiversity-friendly tourism, Thai traditional medicine, Thai food, performing arts, visual arts, cinematography and videography, printing, broadcasting, music, design, fashion, architecture, advertising, and software. According to the database of the Department of Industrial Promotion, entrepreneurs in these fields of business make up more than half of the department’s database of 2.8 million registered entrepreneurs nationwide.
In the initial phase, the two partner organizations will jointly recruit 100 entrepreneurs into the project. Selected entrepreneurs are required to attend workshops and seminars to be held during the first month of the program, which will revolve around fundamental knowledge for creative industry entrepreneurs. The subjects include basic understanding of creative economy and interconnection of SMEs as part of creative economy development, creativity in product development, relevance of materials in creative product development, intellectual property rights, sources of business funding, marketing of products and services in modern market environment with insightful understanding of market demands, and case studies from entrepreneurs who have taken part in TCDC’s earlier project to ‘bring conceptual design to commercial production’. The training will be provided by experts from TCDC and many other related organizations, such as Thammasat University, the Department of Intellectual Property, and Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME Bank). After that, the number of project participants will be halved down to 50 entrepreneurs with well-balanced variety of products. The cut will be based on business development potential as well as commitment and financial capability of the entrepreneurs.
The qualified entrepreneurs will, during the second and third month of the program, attend another series of workshops for more in-depth training. The subjects include product uniqueness and differentiation, product classification for effective product development, cost analysis, production capacity, target customer analysis, product prototyping, packaging design and development, sales channels, market testing, and customer feedback survey for improvement. TCDC will along the way evaluate the improvements in terms of product quality, development, as well as marketing potential in local and international markets. Upon completion of the program, the entrepreneurs are expected to come up with a product with add-on development or a new product creation. Successful participants will be given the opportunities to be part of Ploy Saeng Festival: Create/Make/Earn and sell their products at The Shop@ TCDC.
According to Mr. Arthit Wuthikaro, Director-General of the Department of Industrial Promotion, the project coincides with the department’s mission and the department is clearly aware of TCDC’s role and objectives in supporting SMEs and increasing their accessibility to knowledge resources in creativity and design. With this opportunity for business growth, the SMEs can make their contributions by raising the standard of products and services to achieve marketability in both Thai and foreign markets.
The department will play its part in this project by recruiting and screening participants from its database of registered SMEs nationwide. Prospective SMEs will be classified by their field of business and consideration of the SMEs that meet initial criteria of the project also takes account of their physical profile. The list of selected SMEs will be sent to TCDC for more thorough analysis and consideration. In addition to this, in-depth information about the SMEs will be shared with TCDC, particularly in terms of their business operation, problems, and limitations, as well as recommendations about additional resources that the SMEs would need for their creative business development. The contribution is an effort to fulfill the needs and expand the opportunity of creative industry entrepreneurs in Thailand by providing them the ground for development and the channels to present their creative products to the public.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Seven local SMEs win “Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin” A Thai SME Success Story
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) and the Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University are presenting the prestigious “Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin” to 7 local SMEs. Award winners include Black Canyon (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Narai Intertrade Co., Ltd., Masterkool International Co., Ltd., Teera-Mongkol Industry Co., Ltd., Accurate Technology Co., Ltd., Aruna Co., Ltd., and Papop Co., Ltd. These awards reflect the strong potential and high quality of Thai SMEs. The award presentation ceremony will be held at the Siam Commercial Bank Talad Noi Branch, and presided over by Mr. Anand Panyarachun, Siam Commercial Bank Chairman of the Board of Directors. SCB Business Banking Group Senior Executive Vice President Sirichai Sombutsiri noted that "The Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin are a collaborative effort between Siam Commercial Bank and the Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University. Established in 2007 to recognize successful Thai companies demonstrating distinction among peers, the award aims to inspire local business operators to be more active in continuously enhancing their capabilities, and to assist them in becoming role models for other local small and medium enterprises in setting good standards and boosting sustainable economic growth. This is the fourth time in a row that these award ceremonies have been organized. To date 15 outstanding companies have received the awards, bringing great pride to the SME community."
Sasin Academic Affairs Deputy Director Kittiratt Na Ranong explained that, "Award winners must pass primary evaluation criteria and demonstrate distinctive qualifications critical to competitiveness, including customer focus, innovation, quality, adaptability to change, value creation, branding, efficiency, leadership & team building, social responsibility, and entrepreneurship. These criteria are considered critical to the development of SME business in order to withstand an unfavorable business environment and current economic woes. In selecting award winners, the Evaluation Committee Panel will judge qualified award recipients from candidates, with no limit to the number of candidates receiving the award each year."
Honorary Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce Dr. Ajva Taolananda, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Evaluation Committee Panel, disclosed that this is the forth time that the Bank and Sasin have organized the award presentation ceremony. This year the committee selected seven companies to receive the awards, out of more than 150 applicants or nominated candidates, namely:
Teera-Mongkol Industry Co., Ltd.: A leading manufacturer and distributor of ballast and lighting equipment, the Company has introduced innovative technology emphasizing energy savings and manufactures products that offer an effective substitute for import products. The Company was awarded for its distinction in terms of adaptability to change and quality.
Narai Intertrade Co., Ltd.: A designer, manufacturer, and distributor of fabric bags and accessories under the "Naraya" brand, the Company is distinguished for its quality and efficiency.
Black Canyon (Thailand) Co., Ltd.: The Company operates coffee shops and restaurants famous worldwide and has distinguished itself through branding and value creation.
Papop Co., Ltd.: An environmental engineering consultant company helping businesses reduce their costs, while also generating more revenues. Its two-in-one technology effectively treats wastewater and generate biogas as renewable energy at the same time. The Company was awarded for its distinction in innovation, value creation, and social responsibility.
Masterkool International Co., Ltd.: A manufacturer and distributor of outdoor cooling system products that employ a natural water evaporation process, the Company has distinguished itself through its innovation, customer focus, and branding. Accurate Technology Co., Ltd.: A leading manufacturer, distributor, and exporter of industrial laundry equipment under the “Image” brand, distinguished for innovative technology and reduced production costs. As evidence of its branding, innovation, and quality leadership, the Company is No. 1 sales in the ASEAN region and No. 14 in the world.
Aruna Co., Ltd.: An OEM exporter of regular and polychromos color pencils, Aruna Co. is Thailand's first and only company with a special integrated bonding technique for producing lead with certified quality standards, safety, and a friendly environment. The Company was awarded for its distinction in terms of quality and customer focus. The “Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin” awards presented to these 7 companies will certainly help create business opportunities, boost creditability for trading partners and customers, and inspire other firms to demonstrate their competitiveness and growth.
Previous Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin award winners include Rukluke Edutex Co., Ltd., Officemate Co., Ltd., Bathroom Design Co., Ltd., Business Online Public Co., Ltd., General Hospital Products Public Co., Ltd., Taokaenoi Food and Marketing Co., Ltd., Bertram Chemical (1982) Co., Ltd., Botanique Co., Ltd., Ubis ( Asia) PCL, Interlink Communication PCL, Yothaka International Co., Ltd., Nandee Inter-Trade Co., Ltd., VPP Progressive Co., Ltd., Perm Poon Patana Industry Co.,Ltd., and Twin Lotus Co., Ltd.
The “Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin” aim to support the stable growth of local companies. Entrepreneurs can apply, or nominate other companies for the award program, by obtaining details from the Sasin Management Team at 02-218-4009 ext. 181-183, the SCB Business Call Center at 02-722-2222, www.baipo-business-awards.org, or by E-mail at baipo@sasin.edu.
The Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University
Sasin Academic Affairs Deputy Director Kittiratt Na Ranong explained that, "Award winners must pass primary evaluation criteria and demonstrate distinctive qualifications critical to competitiveness, including customer focus, innovation, quality, adaptability to change, value creation, branding, efficiency, leadership & team building, social responsibility, and entrepreneurship. These criteria are considered critical to the development of SME business in order to withstand an unfavorable business environment and current economic woes. In selecting award winners, the Evaluation Committee Panel will judge qualified award recipients from candidates, with no limit to the number of candidates receiving the award each year."
Honorary Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce Dr. Ajva Taolananda, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Evaluation Committee Panel, disclosed that this is the forth time that the Bank and Sasin have organized the award presentation ceremony. This year the committee selected seven companies to receive the awards, out of more than 150 applicants or nominated candidates, namely:
Teera-Mongkol Industry Co., Ltd.: A leading manufacturer and distributor of ballast and lighting equipment, the Company has introduced innovative technology emphasizing energy savings and manufactures products that offer an effective substitute for import products. The Company was awarded for its distinction in terms of adaptability to change and quality.
Narai Intertrade Co., Ltd.: A designer, manufacturer, and distributor of fabric bags and accessories under the "Naraya" brand, the Company is distinguished for its quality and efficiency.
Black Canyon (Thailand) Co., Ltd.: The Company operates coffee shops and restaurants famous worldwide and has distinguished itself through branding and value creation.
Papop Co., Ltd.: An environmental engineering consultant company helping businesses reduce their costs, while also generating more revenues. Its two-in-one technology effectively treats wastewater and generate biogas as renewable energy at the same time. The Company was awarded for its distinction in innovation, value creation, and social responsibility.
Masterkool International Co., Ltd.: A manufacturer and distributor of outdoor cooling system products that employ a natural water evaporation process, the Company has distinguished itself through its innovation, customer focus, and branding. Accurate Technology Co., Ltd.: A leading manufacturer, distributor, and exporter of industrial laundry equipment under the “Image” brand, distinguished for innovative technology and reduced production costs. As evidence of its branding, innovation, and quality leadership, the Company is No. 1 sales in the ASEAN region and No. 14 in the world.
Aruna Co., Ltd.: An OEM exporter of regular and polychromos color pencils, Aruna Co. is Thailand's first and only company with a special integrated bonding technique for producing lead with certified quality standards, safety, and a friendly environment. The Company was awarded for its distinction in terms of quality and customer focus. The “Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin” awards presented to these 7 companies will certainly help create business opportunities, boost creditability for trading partners and customers, and inspire other firms to demonstrate their competitiveness and growth.
Previous Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin award winners include Rukluke Edutex Co., Ltd., Officemate Co., Ltd., Bathroom Design Co., Ltd., Business Online Public Co., Ltd., General Hospital Products Public Co., Ltd., Taokaenoi Food and Marketing Co., Ltd., Bertram Chemical (1982) Co., Ltd., Botanique Co., Ltd., Ubis ( Asia) PCL, Interlink Communication PCL, Yothaka International Co., Ltd., Nandee Inter-Trade Co., Ltd., VPP Progressive Co., Ltd., Perm Poon Patana Industry Co.,Ltd., and Twin Lotus Co., Ltd.
The “Bai Po Business Awards by Sasin” aim to support the stable growth of local companies. Entrepreneurs can apply, or nominate other companies for the award program, by obtaining details from the Sasin Management Team at 02-218-4009 ext. 181-183, the SCB Business Call Center at 02-722-2222, www.baipo-business-awards.org, or by E-mail at baipo@sasin.edu.
The Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University
‘Roses of the North’ Charity Exhibition
Flowers can make everyone feel happy…. H.E.Privy Councillor Palakorn Suwanrath and Thanpuying Dhasaniya Suwanrath recently presided over at ‘Roses of the North’ charity oil painting exhibition inspired by Bhubing Palace organized by L’Occitane and Baan Saen Doi Resort in Chiang Mai. The art of mercy rose oil painting exhibition was held at Peninsula Plaza and part of sales went to support schools and hospitals where are needed in Chiang Mai. Many kind hearted celebrities attended the event including Khunying Dhipavadee Meksawan, Mr.Harald Link, Arunee Bhirombhakdi, Atchara Tejapaibul, M.L.Sirichalerm Svasti, M.L.Thongmakut and Jarujit Thongyai, Yuwadee and Nidsinee Chirathivat, Dararatana and Toey Mahadumrongkul, Chadapah Snidvongs, Captain Deuntemduang Na Chiengmai, Pimpawan Limpichart, Joy Sopitpongstorn, Panitnuj Bunnag, Piranuj T.Suwan, Sodsoi Chomthavat, Mayura Savetsila, Wanchana Sawasdee and more.
The exhibition showcased of over 70 oil painting of roses flowers by artist and art lecturer Narin Phothisombat. Narin Phothisombat is a talented artist with an art degree from Chiang Mai Technology Rajchamonkol. His painting was inspired by roses from Phra Tamnak Bhubing Rajanives (Bhubing Palace). His painting reflected his pride and passions towards the beauty of nature for roses including Queen Sirikit, Eliza, Rouge Meilland, Queen Elizabeth and Royal Air Force.
In addition there was the charity auction on 2 oil painting pieces. The first one was the painting of Queen Elizabeth which won by Harald Link, CEO of B.Grimm for 120,000 Baht and the other piece on Queen Sirikit won by Arunee Bhirombhakdi for 75,000 Baht.
The exhibition showcased of over 70 oil painting of roses flowers by artist and art lecturer Narin Phothisombat. Narin Phothisombat is a talented artist with an art degree from Chiang Mai Technology Rajchamonkol. His painting was inspired by roses from Phra Tamnak Bhubing Rajanives (Bhubing Palace). His painting reflected his pride and passions towards the beauty of nature for roses including Queen Sirikit, Eliza, Rouge Meilland, Queen Elizabeth and Royal Air Force.
In addition there was the charity auction on 2 oil painting pieces. The first one was the painting of Queen Elizabeth which won by Harald Link, CEO of B.Grimm for 120,000 Baht and the other piece on Queen Sirikit won by Arunee Bhirombhakdi for 75,000 Baht.
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