Central Retail Corporation
is a US$ 2 billion enterprise that
has developed Thailand's most
successful store formats and brands.

In 1956, Samrit Chirathivat expanded his father Tiang's general merchandise business with the establishment of the first Central Department Store in Bangkok's Wangburapha district.

This was an area of bustling trade, and the young entrepreneur was quick to establish a business that was characterized by many "firsts": being one of the first to import international cosmetic brands, the first to embark on impeccable customer services and the first to implement innovative marketing communications.

Samrit Chirathivat believed that success would come from honesty, hard work as well as the best services and products for Central's customers.

Until today, the Central Group of Companies has remained committed to the founder's vision.

Our Competitive Advantage
Successful companies are characterized by both personality and systems; and, Central is no exception.




Central Retail Corporation is at the forefront when it comes to developing innovative and diverse retail formats that address prevalent market opportunities.


• In 1956, we opened Thailand's first department store.
• In 1990, we opened Thailand's first lifestyle specialty department store,
with the opening of ZEN.
• In 1994, we opened Thailand's first hypermarket.
• In 1996, we opened Thailand's first "category killer", with the opening of Office Depot.
• In 2003, we opened FoodLoft,
Thailand's first upscale cosmopolitan dining hall with open kitchens.




Central Retail Corporation has developed the dominant retail brands in Thailand. The company was the pioneer in the category-killer and several other specialty retail formats in Thailand. We have constantly developed new formats and merchandise to match the latest market needs. The company has successfully introduced 9 "department store" brands and category specialty stores, addition to the joint venture and franchising/licensing businesses, serving millions of Thai and international customers.





Modern information systems help Central Retail Corporation deliver superior value to our customers. Central Department Store is the only department store in Thailand that shares itemized SKU data with its suppliers to help manage inventory and satisfy demand.

Central Retail Corporation's modern distribution centers are integrated into an advanced supply chain management system. CRM systems capture and interpret the purchase habits of individual customers, so targeted promotions offer the right products at the right price.




Central Retail's people offer an ideal combination of Asian experience and international expertise. What was originally a small family-run company has evolved into a group of experienced professionals, while senior managers regularly receive training aboard in modern merchandising, marketing and operation techniques. However, being a family business also has many pluses, for our employees are treated as family members and as family members and not just employees, while most have had long careers with the company.

[ Key Facts & Figures 2005 | Download CRC Corporate Brochure 2007 (5.47 MB PDF file) ]