Central Retail Corporation teams with Ant Group to launch Alipay+ payments for Asian travellers in Thailand

Thailand’s Central Retail Corporation (CRC) has partnered with Ant Group to launch Alipay+ at its stores.

Users can make payments via their local digital wallet, including Alipay (Chinese mainland), AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR), Touch ‘n Go eWallet (Malaysia) and Kakao Pay (South Korea).

Payments can be made across over 3,000 stores nationwide under the CRC banner, including Central and Robinson Deportment Stores, Supersports, Tops, Power Buy, B2S, OfficeMate, Matsukiyo, Tops Vita and Muji.

Piyawan Leelasompop, Head of Corporate Marketing, Central Retail Corporation PCL, says: “This partnership will increase digital payment channels for our customers, delivering comprehensive services to serve consumers who prefer cashless payments.”

“The company aims to target Asian tourists travelling to Thailand, providing convenience for those shopping at brands under Central Retail via Alipay+ with their local mobile wallet.”

“Additionally, users can also receive promotions and special privileges provided by Central Retail and international mobile wallet providers, delivering next-level shopping experiences.”

“There are also plans in the pipeline to expand payment services, accommodating tourists from other countries, including in Asia and Europe.”

Leelasompop concludes: “The launch of Alipay+ will elevate our ecosystem by bringing the best technologies and systems from around the world to drive inclusive growth for our customers, brands and partners as well as deliver next level experiences for consumers in every dimension.”

“This is in line with the CRC Retailligence strategy, in which we aim to drive leaping growth within five years and become Asia’s next-gen omni retailer.”

Sittipong Kittiprapapong, General Manager for Global Merchant Partnership in Thailand, Ant Group comments: “It is considered an important partnership between Ant Group and Central Retail in offering modern and convenient services so international customers can make borderless digital payments.”

“Additionally, Alipay+ will also enable vendors in Central Retail to accept digital payments from Asian tourists as well as provide a convenient platform for international shoppers to browse products throughout their time in Thailand, delivering convenient and seamless experiences just as if they are in their home country.”

“Alipay+ is a global cross-border digital payment platform and a marketing solution that helps business offer its customers more options for digital payment. We are committed to support businesses to connect with over one billion consumers across the region and the world via a comprehensive operating system that delivers ease and convenience.”

International travellers who use Alipay+ to shop at CRC stores from 15th August to 30th September will receive a discount coupon under a Mega Campaign, which includes:

·       For every 200 baht spent, receive a cash voucher worth 50 baht.

·       For every 2,000 baht spent, receive a cash voucher worth 250 baht.