Tops, food business under Central Retail, partners with Government Savings Bank and the Federation of Thai SME to support startups and SMEs to grow via Tops Tongtin platform.
An MOU for “Startups and SMEs Support and Development Project” has been signed in order to help startups and SMEs access funds, technology, and innovation in order to improve their competitive advantages and generate business growth. This follows Tops’ DISCOVER HAPPINESS concept and its aim to improve quality of life sustainably, which is at the heart of its operation as it strives to become the ultimate Food Discovery & Destination that offers another level of experience to consumers in every aspect.
Mr. Brian Hill, Head of Tops Tongtin, Central Food Retail under Central Retail, said that equipping SMEs with more potential is one of Tops’ missions under its goal to ensure its business improve the quality of life for people and reduce the gap in our society. This is the reason behind the development of Tops Tongtin or www.topstongtin.com which offers vast opportunities. It is run by a new generation of people who want to take Thai SMEs to another level and to ensure they grow strongly and sustainably. The platform seeks high-potential SMEs as Tops’ business partners and helps expand sales channels nationwide, which means consumers can support Thai SMEs and their delicious products. This experience invites people to discover quality products from local vendors, following the Every Day DISCOVERY concept. In order to help startups and SMEs grow and sell their products via Tops’ online and offline channels, Tops Tongtin has signed an MOU for “Startups and SMEs Support and Development Project” together with to Government Savings Bank and the Federation of Thai SME to leverage all three parties’ strengths to support SMEs to grow faster. They will have access to funds to develop their products and services to have more competitive advantages. The project will support technology and innovation, as well as knowledge exchange, consultation on product development, management, and marketing, and connect Tops Tongtin members with Government Savings Bank and the Federation of Thai SME. This will lead to economic growth through employment and revenue generation.
Mrs. Prangmas Dheandhanoo, Senior Executive Vice President (Grassroors Customer and Government’s Policy Supporting Group), Government Savings Bank (GSB) said, “GSB is delighted to sign this MOU. Over the years, we have worked with the Federation of Thai SME in many aspects. We are happy to work with Tops Tongtin to exchange knowledge, expand sales channels, and create opportunities for SMEs to access funds, and hope that this will strengthen SMEs to grow significantly. GSB is ready to support businesses and stand by Thai communities and society for the sustainable happiness of Thai businesses.”
Mr. Sangchai Theerakulwanich, President of the Federation of Thai SMEs said, “The Federation of Thai SME is honored to see Tops Tongtin and GSB support SMEs to have access to modern retail, which will help strengthen the grassroots economy, thereby improving income distribution and employment. The project will support them in marketing and innovation, with low-interest funds by GSB. Tops Tongtin will facilitate SMEs and reduce the steps that are complicated. Its team will offer advice and support throughout the journey. I am confident that this partnership will lead to development of the BCG model and Creative Economy, as well as sustainnovation in startups and SMEs, improving the GDP of SMEs and Thailand’s economic growth.”
“Tops Tongtin has been launched for a year and there are more than 350 vendors nationwide. Tops Tongtin has worked closely with them, and right now, there are 125 products which have been developed to ensure good quality, taste and packaging, ready to sell at 32 locations of Tops and Tops Food Hall, as well as online. The products have been well-received, and we are confident that this partnership will expand opportunities for SMEs to grow steadily, and at the same time, Tops’ customers can enjoy quality products at great prices. This will fulfill their shopping experience and create shared value for customers and the society, playing a key role in the growth of our country’s economy,” said Mr. Brian.
For more details and registration, visit www.topstongtin.com and Facebook “Tops Tongtin”
