6 major Thai retailers commit to purchase and distribute more than 50,000 tonnes of domestic fruit

Thailand's Department of Internal Trade said six major retail groups have committed to purchase and distribute more than 50,000 tonnes of Thai fruit worth over THB2.69 billion (around US$80.7 million).

The initiative brings together GO Wholesale, Big C Supercenter, Lotus's, The Mall Group, Tops and Makro. Rather than focusing only on clearing seasonal surpluses, the department wants the retailers to create additional demand and connect fruit growers with different groups of consumers.

The model links farms with agricultural wholesale markets and modern retailers. Each chain is targeting a different segment, ranging from urban and younger consumers to tourists, premium shoppers, restaurants, hotels and other business customers.

The department said this broader mix of outlets should give growers more options when large volumes of fruit reach the market at the same time and reduce dependence on a single sales channel.

source and photo: dit.go.th