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| Even if product prices rise, Robinson gains from revenue-sharing with manufacturers, says Mr Preecha. |
Improved consumer purchasing power has revived department stores, which have been hit hard by competition from discount stores in the recent past.
Preecha Ekkunagul, the president of Robinson Department Store Plc, said higher crop prices, minimum wages and civil servant salaries were driving consumption, even as employment rises.
At the same time, Bangkok residents are spending more on lifestyle items such as fashion, electrical products and consumer electronics and furniture. The momentum started last year, leading Robinson to steady growth.
If there are no new political problems and the country's economy keeps growing, he expects consumers will buy more premium products at department or specialty stores instead of making purchases at hypermarkets or convenience stores.
