#Thailand #Phuket #Central Phuket #luxury shopping #vacation destinations

Central Phuket's Luxurious Transformation

Central Phuket has recently marked its sixth year since the grand opening of its celebrated luxury zone, Floresta, with an ambitious expansion project amounting to THB 1 billion. This step is aimed at consolidating Phuket's status as a world-class luxury destination. According to Dr. Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, the marketing director of Central Pattana plc, Phuket is now standing shoulder-to-shoulder with globally recognized luxury destinations such as Hawaii, Monaco, Santorini, and Miami.

The expansion of the Floresta Zone reflects the increasing demand from affluent customers and international tourists, predicted to contribute THB 500 billion to the local economy in 2024, a substantial 28% growth compared to the previous year. The average spending per tourist is anticipated to rise to THB 34,336.

Key Features of Expansion

The retail space for the luxury zone will increase from 180,000 to 200,000 square meters. More notable is the expansion of the luxury brand portfolio, which will grow from 16 to 25 renowned brands. Some of the luxury offerings set to debut include:

• - Louis Vuitton: The largest boutique in southern Thailand.
• - Prada: The biggest store in Thailand, covering an impressive 597 square meters.
• - Tiffany & Co.: Opening a flagship outlet.
• - Bulgari: Launching its first-ever pop-up outside Bangkok.
• - Celine: Scheduled to open in December 2024.

The expansion will also introduce the first Lululemon store outside of Bangkok and the new ZARA, which will be the largest in Southeast Asia at 1,800 square meters. Currently, Central Phuket witnesses around 80,000 visitors each day; this number is expected to increase to 100,000 after the expansion, with 70% of the visitors coming from overseas.

Demographics and Visitor Insights

The primary nationalities among international visitors include Russians, Chinese, Americans, and Singaporeans. Central Phuket's members, who spend significantly more than average shoppers, contribute to the affluent profile of the mall's clientele, with a spending rate five times higher than that observed in other shopping destinations.

Phuket’s luxury destination category is supported by various infrastructure enhancements, such as:

• - An expansion of the international airport intended to serve 18 million passengers annually.
• - The introduction of the first five-star private jet terminal in Thailand, which can accommodate up to 156 private jets each year.
• - A collection of over 15 luxury brands and world-class dining experiences, inclusive of Su Va Na, acclaimed as the best underwater restaurant worldwide.
• - Five marinas for superyachts and 28 Michelin-starred restaurants.
• - Sixteen world-class golf courses.
• - Nine top-rated hospitals and 13 international schools.

Anniversary Celebrations

In celebrating this anniversary, Central Phuket launched the campaign titled LIVE. LUXE. LOVE. which includes exclusive promotions and rewards. Notable rewards include:

• - A VIP trip to experience the Northern Lights in Finland, available for those spending upwards of THB 8 million.
• - Electronic vouchers worth up to THB 6,000 for members.
• - Discounts of up to 17% cashback for participating credit card holders.

Through these initiatives, Central Phuket is set to elevate the island’s profile as a top global destination for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle. For the latest updates, you can visit Central Pattana.