Business
Chiang Mai , Nonthaburi , and Hanoi . The brand also carries products such as mugs , notebooks , and greeting cards .
Chandler set up the company ’ s sales and marketing arm in 1997 , and inherited copyright when her mother passed in 2015 . Chandler ’ s lengthy stay in the Kingdom has certainly given her some insight as to how to be a successful business owner in Thailand . Her biggest piece of advice ? Assume nothing and be flexible .
Chandler also believes that networking is incredibly important when starting up a business in Thailand — but not necessarily in the traditional sense . “ Don ’ t just hand out business cards ,” she says . Instead , she suggests befriending those who can be mentors as well as friends . She also recommends joining groups like the International Chamber of Commerce , as they will help move your business forward .
Chandler ’ s overall outlook on starting a business in Thailand is positive , and she ’ s thankful for it : “ I am most grateful to have had the opportunity to live and work in Thailand with an amazing group of Thai friends and family ,” Chandler says . “ I feel there are more opportunities to grow and learn here than in many other countries , and it ’ s possible to do so with greater comfort than anywhere else .”
NICOLAS BRUNET — INSTAROID
The digital and real world collide with Instaroid , the newest event photography service . Lasting memories with Instaroid happen in three easy steps : first , create memories — parties , company launches , and weddings are good places to start . Then , document those moments with your smartphone . And finally , immortalize your memories with Instaroid , a machine at party and event venues that prints your digital photos into hard copy stickers . The pocket-sized printouts are just the right size for decorating your smartphone , fridge , cork board , or scrapbook .
French founder and CEO Nicolas Brunet started Instaroid in Singapore and has since made his way to Thailand , bringing his savvy business skills and company with him . He has been in the Kingdom for three years now and says that plenty of patience and perseverance are necessary but not enough for success . Meeting the local demand with your product or service is also key and so is having connections to influential Thais : “ Many have failed by trying to import popular Western concepts that just didn ’ t catch on here ,” Brunet says . “ If you are selling to corporates , arm yourself with even more patience and team up with Thais who are well-connected in the industry .”
If you follow this entrepreneur ’ s advice , it might be a good idea to befriend Thai movers and shakers first , and then ask them about your business idea before you begin to execute your start-up plan . If influential Thais are willing to support and help broadcast your efforts , you ’ ll have a greater shot at success .
MICHAEL CLUZEL — EATIGO
Self-proclaimed foodies have most likely caught wind of Eatigo , the restaurant reservation platform that makes dining out a much simpler and affordable affair . With discounts of up to 50 percent any day of the week on entire menus , there does not seem to be any reason for diners to not utilize this unique booking app .
The mastermind behind Eatigo is co-founder and CEO Michael Cluzel . He was born in Germany and spent some time in Thailand in 2005 and 2006 before returning to the country in 2013 . One year later , Eatigo was born .
Three years into the world of entrepreneurialism in Thailand , Cluzel says that one of the most important things he learned is the importance of forming successful , trust-based relationships . “ Thais are very creative and flexible ,” he says . But Cluzel also believes that , in Thailand , it ’ s the Thai way or the highway : “ Thai people do not trust easily ,” he adds .
Eatigo has both a website and an app , which has acquired some hundreds of thousands of downloads since its launch . The twist is that diners visit these restaurants during off-peak hours , so it is a win-win for all parties involved . In addition to Thailand , Eatigo is now available in Singapore , and there are plans to continue expansion .
PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER
If we combine the advice from these three experienced business people we can see that Thailand can be a wonderful place to found your business , but only with a sound plan and the backing of Thais . Lesson learned ? Get out there and start making meaningful business relationships .
MORE TIPS IN THIS ISSUE
For more on how to network in Thailand , see this issue ’ s “ Samantha Asks ” on page 60 . To learn about making a great elevator pitch , turn to page 54 .
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