Grocery Shopping in Thailand's Supermarkets: A Guide to Supercenters and More

Dr. Theodore (Professor Bear) 10 min read

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Thailand's vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine make it a dream destination for every traveler worldwide. Alongside its natural beauty, the country offers a plethora of accommodation options, retail establishments, and amenities, all at affordable prices. Whether you're visiting Thailand temporarily or considering making it your permanent home, you'll inevitably need essential supplies from time to time.

Fortunately, Thailand boasts a variety of grocery brands that cater to every need, from daily essentials to gourmet treats. If you're unsure which supermarket chain best fits your preferences, read on for an overview of some of Thailand's most popular supercenters and supermarkets.

#1 Tops Market: A Go-To Destination for Variety and Convenience

Tops Market stands tall as Thailand's largest and most expansive supermarket chain, boasting an extensive network of around 147 outlets spread across the nation, with a notable concentration of 90+ stores within Bangkok's bustling metropolis. While Tops Market caters to a diverse clientele, its larger establishments, strategically situated in prominent malls, serve as epicenters of culinary exploration, offering a delightful fusion of Thai flavors alongside an enticing selection of Western favorites.

From fragrant spices to succulent produce, Tops Market tantalizes the senses with its diverse array of fresh and packaged goods, ensuring shoppers can find everything they need under one roof. Moreover, Tops Market's commitment to convenience is exemplified by its strategic placement of outlets, ensuring easy accessibility for every shopper from all corners of the country. Whether stocking up on pantry staples or seeking out specialty ingredients for a gourmet feast, Tops Market's expansive selection and abundance of locations make it the go-to destination for all your grocery shopping needs.

With a reputation for quality, variety, and accessibility, Tops Market continues to set the standard for supermarket excellence in Thailand, offering a shopping experience as convenient as possible.

#2 Big C: Where Convenience Meets Variety

Big C Supercenter is a leading supermarket chain in Thailand that truly offers a wide range of products, from discounted clothing and home appliances to fresh produce and alcoholic beverages. With over 2,000 locations across Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, Big C has become a destination for locals and tourists. Its convenient amenities, including a bank, fashion stores, and various food options, make shopping at Big C a convenient and enjoyable experience for everyone.

At Big C, shoppers can find everything they need under one roof, including fresh goods, cooked foods, personal hygiene items, and imported goods. The store also features entertainment options such as a kids' amusement center and movie theaters, providing visitors with a comprehensive shopping and leisure experience. Conveniently located around Thailand, Big C Supercenter is easily accessible and is a landmark destination for all shoppers looking for quality products at cheaper prices.

#3 108 Store: Convenience at Your Doorstep

The 108 Store, now transitioning to LAWSON 108, represents a cornerstone of convenience shopping in Thailand, with its extensive network of franchise convenience stores catering to customers' needs nationwide. Established in March 2013 as a joint venture between Saha Group and Lawson, Inc., the brand was specifically tailored to meet the unique demands of the Thai market. With a focus on providing essential products and services in a convenient and accessible manner, 108 Store has become a trusted name among shoppers seeking everyday necessities.

Operating under the umbrella of Saha Pathanapibul Co. Ltd., the 108 Shop convenience stores offer a diverse range of products, including groceries, personal care items, and household essentials. The transition to LAWSON 108 reflects a strategic evolution in branding, aligning the stores with the global presence of Lawson, Inc. This rebranding effort not only enhances the visibility and recognition of the stores but also reinforces their sincere commitment to delivering quality products and services to customers throughout Thailand.

#4 7-Eleven: A Trusted Name in Convenience

7-Eleven, a global convenience store giant, entered the Thai market on Bangkok's Patpong Road in 1989. Operating with a blend of 55% franchised and around 45% company-owned stores, the franchise model has played a significant role in 7-Eleven's widespread presence across Thailand. CP All Public Company Limited serves as both the proprietor and franchisor of 7-Eleven in Thailand, contributing to the country's thriving convenience store sector. The company witnessed notable growth, increasing its total number of outlets from 12,400+ in 2020 to 13,800+ by 2022, showcasing its enduring consumer popularity.

In the highly competitive convenience store sector, 7-Eleven commands an impressive 70% market share, making it a dominant force. This is further emphasized by the fact that Thailand, after Japan, boasts the second-highest number of 7-Eleven locations globally. Beyond its extensive reach, 7-Eleven is committed to environmental sustainability. In November 2018, CP All Public Company, the parent company of 7-Eleven in Thailand, announced its intention to gradually eliminate single-use plastic bags, underscoring its dedication to reducing plastic pollution and promoting eco-friendly practices in the retail industry.

#5 Gourmet Market: Elevating Your Culinary Experience

Though limited in its physical footprint with just four outlets, Gourmet Market stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok). Catering to those who taste the finer things in life, this upscale supermarket offers a curated selection of gourmet foods exclusive to the bustling metropolis. While prices may run higher than standard supermarkets, Gourmet Market's commitment to quality and sophistication ensures that every purchase is a culinary indulgence.

From artisanal cheeses to exotic spices and rare ingredients, Gourmet Market's offerings tantalize the taste buds and inspire culinary creativity. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the promise of unparalleled quality and unique finds makes Gourmet Market an irresistible destination for food connoisseurs seeking an extraordinary shopping experience.

#6 Fresh Mart: Supporting Local Communities

Fresh Mart Unlimited, a Fresh Mart International Public Co. Ltd. division, stands as a prominent nationwide chain of supermarkets operating within Thailand. Established by Narin Jiyaron in 2000, Fresh Mart has grown into a publicly traded corporation known for its commitment to providing quality goods and services under the "Fresh Mart" brand.

With over 200 expanding franchise stores scattered across the country, Fresh Mart has become a trusted name among shoppers seeking convenience and reliability in their shopping experience. Beyond its retail operations, Fresh Mart supports local communities and fosters economic growth. Through initiatives such as developing goods for the global market, creating job opportunities, and promoting property development, Fresh Mart contributes to the socio-economic development of Thailand.

Additionally, the Intertrade Department's efforts to export goods from local communities align with government policies to bolster community business growth and generate revenue for villages and communities, further solidifying Fresh Mart's commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development.

#7 Foodland: Quality and Affordability Combined

Foodland, a prominent chain of supermarkets known as "ฟู้ดแลนด์" in Thai, boasts a widespread presence throughout Thailand. Founded in 1972 by Somsak Teraphatanakul, Foodland Supermarket Co. Ltd. manages the operations of this upscale brand, which has expanded to encompass twenty-two locations across the nation.

Emphasizing its reputation as a high-end retailer, Foodland implements promotional strategies such as the popular "buy one, get one free" initiative, typically offered on a monthly basis, to drive sales and enhance customer satisfaction. However, the supermarket industry in Thailand has faced challenges, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic and political unrest, leading to significant cost increases. Despite these challenges, Foodland remains committed to controlling prices and supporting its customers by collaborating with various vendors.

Notably, Foodland's dedication to quality extends to its meat offerings, focusing on stabilizing prices despite a 30% surge in pork costs. Reflecting on its pioneering spirit, Foodland traces its roots back to 1972 when Mr. Somsak Teraphatanakul and his associates launched "Pleonchit Supermarket," Asia's first 24-hour supermarket, following the success of the initial "Daily Lane" grocery shop. This pioneering spirit drives Foodland's commitment to innovation and excellence in the supermarket industry.

#8 Lawson: Bringing Japanese Convenience to Thailand

Lawson made its foray into the Thai market under Lawson 108, commencing operations in 2013. Operating as a joint venture between Lawson Japan and the Saha Group, a key player in the Thai consumer goods sector, these outlets offer a franchise chain of convenience stores. Originating in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, in the United States, Lawson has since evolved into a Japanese business, with its headquarters in Shinagawa, Tokyo.

The partnership between Lawson Japan and Saha Group's consumer goods marketing and distribution division, Saha Pathanapibul, underscores Lawson's strategic approach to establishing a presence in international markets, with Thailand being its fourth international market after China, Indonesia, and Hawaii. Moreover, Lawson aims to further expand its footprint in emerging markets that include India, Vietnam, and Myanmar, leveraging anticipated demand fueled by rapid economic growth.

While the Thai Supercenter sector has been dominated by the 7-Eleven chain owned by Charoen Pokphand Group, there remains ample opportunity for new and existing operators to capitalize on the growing demand in the region. As Thailand's economy continues to expand, the outlook for convenience store operators like Lawson remains promising, with prospects for opening additional locations to meet evolving consumer needs. This underscores Lawson's commitment to staying ahead of the curve and seizing opportunities for growth in the dynamic Southeast Asian market.

#9 Siam Makro: Serving Business Customers with Excellence

Siam Makro Public Company Limited, founded in 1988, operates as a Dutch multinational brand of warehouse clubs, commonly known as cash and carry stores. Originally established in 1968 with the inauguration of its first warehouse club in Amsterdam by SHV Holdings, Siam Makro is now a global chain owned by various entities, including CP All in Asia, SHV Holdings in Latin America (excluding Peru), and Metro AG in Europe (excluding the UK).

While the stores are not accessible to the general public in certain nations, they cater primarily to business customers, offering a comprehensive range of food and non-food items. Each Siam Makro location features distinct sections, including a wine section, fresh fish and meat departments, and chilled aisles offering various products. Additionally, non-food items such as garden furniture, clothing, electronics, and office supplies are available, catering to diverse customer needs. With amenities like cash ATMs and cafés serving hot food, Siam Makro ensures a convenient shopping experience for its members.

Furthermore, the stores serve various trades, including newsagents, hotels, restaurants, caterers, educational institutions, and sports groups, through specialized services tailored to each sector's unique requirements. Customers can access these services and purchase using a membership card, facilitating seamless transactions and exclusive benefits.

Exploring Thailand's Grocery Shopping Landscape

Thailand's grocery shopping scene is not just about convenience—it's an experience that reflects the country's rich culture and diverse culinary traditions. Let's delve much deeper into some key aspects of grocery shopping in Thailand.

Cultural Preferences and Shopping Habits

Thai consumers have diverse preferences when it comes to grocery shopping. While some prioritize convenience and affordability, others seek specialty stores offering unique products and experiences. Understanding these preferences can help you navigate Thailand's grocery landscape more effectively.

Regional Variations in Product Availability

Thailand's diverse geography influences the availability of certain products in different regions. For example, coastal areas may offer a wider selection of seafood, while mountainous regions may specialize in locally grown fruits and vegetables. Exploring local markets and supermarkets can give you insight into the culinary delights of each region.

Sustainable Shopping Practices

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability in Thailand's grocery sector. Supermarkets and convenience stores are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, such as reducing plastic packaging and promoting locally sourced products. Consumers can contribute to environmental conservation efforts by supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Online Grocery Shopping Trends

With the rise of e-commerce, online grocery shopping has become increasingly popular in Thailand. Several supermarket chains offer online platforms where every customer can browse and purchase different products from the comfort of their homes. This convenience especially appeals to busy urban dwellers and expatriates living in Thailand.

Promotional Strategies and Loyalty Programs

Supermarkets in Thailand often use promotional strategies and loyalty programs to attract and retain customers. From buy-one-get-one-free offers to discounts for loyal shoppers, these incentives can help consumers save on grocery purchases. By taking advantage of all these promotions, shoppers can stretch their budget further.