- Continued sales growth of 3.7%
- Robust growth in rental income of 16.4%
- High operating profit margins of 6.6%
Mr. Yves Bernard Braibant, Chief Executive Officer & President, Big C Supercenter PLC, said, “The first quarter 2009 operating results of Big C Supercenter PLC and its subsidiaries were announced recently. The Company had a net profit of 727 million baht, even though there are the global economic downturn and the local political fluctuation. However, Big C’s operating results continued to outperform because last year’s strong expansion of 12 stores has broadened the Company’s customer base and increased sales. The expansion also helped us maintain solid profitability by successfully employing a retail & property rental business combination model.”
Big C’s sales were 16,361 million baht, up 590 million baht or 3.7% over the same period last year. Income from rental and services accounted for 1,021 million baht, an increase of 144 million baht or 16.4% increase compared to last year and other income was 2,108 million baht, representing an increase of 297 million baht or 16.4% over last year.
“In the current economic environment, we remain focused on implementing our well known pricing strategy and boldly moving into the house brand segment. House brands are particularly appropriate for the current circumstances as these products are available at 10 - 15% lower prices. We will continue our loyalty program, built on initiatives that have been implemented since 2008 via Shop Call Free and Big C Bonus. Sales via these membership channels represented 30% of total sales for each campaign,” added Yves.
“In the second quarter, the government’s economic stimulus measures are expected to improve the Thai economy. In support of the government’s cheque program, Big C announced the ‘Government Cheques for the Thai Economy’ campaign that received very positive customer feedback. In today’s economy, Big C’s brand image on price leadership appeals to consumers and helps them decide to shop for products at Big C. We have held a wide range of sales promotions to meet diverse customer needs, particularly the requirements of customer families. We have formed many strategic partnerships, such as with Jay Mart and Major to elevate Big C as the one stop shopping center that best meets consumer needs and add convenience to Big C customers,” concluded Yves.
Big C Supercenter PCL (BIGC), founded in 1993, is a retail consumer goods trade operator trading under the name of Big C Supercenter. It offers a wide variety of products at the most competitive prices under the slogan “More Than Just Low Prices” to maximize the highest value for customers at its 67 store nationwide. For further information about Big C Supercenter, visit our Web site at www.bigc.co.th.
For further information, please contact:
Satida Sritunyathorn or Hongsinunt Somboonwanna
Aziam Burson-Marsteller
Tel. 0 2252 9871