GO Wholesale, a premier food wholesale centre under the aegis of Central Retail Corporation (CRC), has proudly unfurled its first branch in Thailand’s southern region, situated in the picturesque Rawai, Phuket. This magnificent new establishment aims to create a veritable “Food Paradise,” replete with extensive member benefits while markedly boosting the local economy. The opening ceremony saw the distinguished presence of VDC Col. Adul Chutong, Deputy Governor of Phuket Province.
Mrs. Suchada Ithijarukul, the visionary CEO Group Thailand & International at Central Food Wholesales Limited, shared her enthusiasm as she announced that the GO Wholesale Rawai branch is not just the first in the southern region but also stands as the 8th branch in Thailand. Encompassing over 5,000 square metres, this sprawling branch is a culinary wonderland, boasting over 10,000 products. With a keen emphasis on fresh and frozen foods, it proudly stands as the “House of Fresh.” This new branch is purposefully designed to fuel the economic vitality of Phuket, one of the world’s most celebrated tourist destinations, and to bolster Thailand’s soft power in the vibrant food sector.
“Phuket is brimming with growth potential, particularly within the tourism industry, which has heralded the rise of numerous restaurants, hotels, HoReCa businesses, street food vendors, and quaint retail stores,” explained Mrs. Ithijarukul. “GO Wholesale, as part of CRC, aims to inspire entrepreneurs in Rawai and neighboring provinces to boldly explore innovative business ventures. Our membership system unlocks a treasure trove of benefits, meant to cater to all customer groups, thanks to GO Wholesale and our strategic affiliates.”
Furthermore, GO Wholesale is deeply committed to uplifting the local agricultural sector and creating promising job opportunities, with over 80% of the employees at the Rawai branch hailing from Phuket and neighboring provinces. The company champions Thai farmers by sourcing local agricultural gems such as Phuket lobsters, blue swimming crabs, tiger prawns, Phuket pineapples, and hydroponic vegetables, thus anchoring sustainable jobs and income for the community. In addition, GO Wholesale consistently orchestrates environmental care campaigns and recently donated 40 substantial waste separation bins (each with a 120-litre capacity) to the Rawai Municipality, strategically placed in key tourist and community areas.
To celebrate the grand opening of the Rawai branch, GO Wholesale extends a red-carpet welcome to new members with an enticing array of promotions. New members receive a free discount coupon worth 1,000 baht, a large shopping bag for purchases over 3,000 baht, an apron adorned with a unique design for purchases over 4,500 baht, and an array of other promotions, discounts, exchanges, giveaways, and more.
Looking ahead to 2024, Phuket is projected to generate significant income from tourism, which will ripple through the local business sector like a positive tidal wave. This anticipated growth promises substantial benefits for restaurants, cozy retail stores, HoReCa businesses, service providers, and street food vendors, all of whom are gearing up to seize the opportunities arising from increased tourism and the government’s proactive economic stimulus measures.
In summation, the launch of GO Wholesale’s Rawai branch not only introduces a culinary haven but also symbolizes a beacon of economic stimulus, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, ready to transform the landscape of southern Thailand’s business and gastronomic scene.
This is fantastic news for Phuket! It’s high time the South got its own GO Wholesale branch. This will definitely boost tourism and local businesses!
I’m skeptical. Sure it might help businesses, but what about the small local vendors? This could just put them out of business.
I get your concern, but GO Wholesale is promoting local agriculture. Small vendors might actually get a leg up by being suppliers.
Jayden23 has a point. These big corporations often promise one thing and deliver another. Only time will tell.
I love the environmental focus! It’s great to see the waste bins initiative. More companies need to take such steps.
It’s a start, but we need more than just waste bins. What about tackling plastic use and carbon footprints?
You’re right, but it’s still commendable. Every small step counts.
Totally agree. Small steps can lead to bigger changes over time.
As someone who lives here, I welcome this! More job opportunities for the locals is always appreciated.
Indeed, but are these jobs going to be well-paying or just another series of low-paying positions?
Good question. I hope GO Wholesale prioritizes fair wages.
Does anyone else find it ironic that they’re promoting local agriculture but also a massive food warehouse? Sounds like they’re going to import half their stock anyway.
It’s a balance. They are sourcing local but also offering variety. That’s necessary for business.
I guess catering to both markets makes sense. Still, I remain skeptical.
The promotions look pretty tempting. Might have to become a member just for that initial discount!
Right? They know how to reel people in. I bet a lot of folks will join just for those deals.
GO Wholesale is taking a significant step in supporting the local economy. Kudos to them!
Do you really think a big corporation cares about the local economy? It’s all about profit for them.
Everyone has motives, but the result might still benefit the community, right?
This could be great for tourists! More food options and better quality.
Definitely, but let’s hope it doesn’t make everything too commercialized.
It’s good to hear they are supporting Thai farmers. This could bring more awareness to local produce.
That’s the hope. Local produce often gets overshadowed by imported goods.
This is all great on paper, but how many times have we seen such initiatives fizzle out? Let’s wait and see.
I’m excited by the sheer variety of products they’ll offer. It’s like having a global market in one place.
GO Wholesale opening here is great. Sustainable jobs, local focus, it’s fantastic!
Sustainable? In a warehouse that large? Let’s see how ‘green’ they really are.
Fair point, but at least they’re making an effort.
10,000 products is a lot! I hope they bring in some rare finds.
This sounds like an interesting development for Phuket. I’m cautiously optimistic.
I wonder how this will impact the prices of local foods. Will it drive up costs or lower them?
Interesting that they’re targeting the HoReCa sector. Could be very lucrative for them!