Central Phuket Celebrates 6 Years of Success, Expanding Its Luxury Zone to Cement Phuket’s Status as a World-Class Luxury Destination

Phuket – Central Phuket shopping center celebrates the 6^th anniversary of the Floresta Zone, reaffirming its status as a global luxury destination. With an investment of over THB 1 billion, the shopping center is expanding its luxury zone to meet the growing demand of high-spending customers and affluent international tourists. This expansion positions Central Phuket as a key puzzle piece in making Phuket "The World’s Luxury Destination," the most comprehensive luxury lifestyle hub in Asia, on par with other global luxury destinations. The celebration also features the launch of a fashion film reflecting the lifestyle concept LIVE LUXE LOVE.

Watch it here: https://youtu.be/rPE89gHC0Rg.

Dr. Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, Chief Marketing Officer for Central Pattana plc, said:, “Phuket is a top destination for global jetsetters, comparable to luxury destinations such as Hawaii, Monaco, Santorini, and Miami. These destinations share common attributes with Phuket, including stunning beaches, world-class tourism infrastructure, luxury accommodations, high-end lifestyle activities, and, most importantly, luxury shopping and unique lifestyle experiences.”

Phuket’s economy and tourism sector continue to thrive. In 2024, Phuket's tourism revenue is projected to reach THB 500 billion, marking a 28% growth from 2023's THB 388 billion, with a 16% (YoY) increase in tourist arrivals. Phuket enjoys a year-round high season, with the highest spending per tourist in Thailand, averaging THB 34,336 per visitor. The province is renowned for its Andaman Sea, which ranks among the world’s most beautiful destinations. Phuket also boasts the highest gross provincial product (GPP) per capita in Southern Thailand and ranks 12th nationwide. Its GDP growth in 2024 is expected to approach 20%, outperforming the national average.

The Luxury Market in Thailand

"Central Phuket has invested THB 1 billion to cater to high-spending customers by expanding the Floresta Zone from GFA 180,000 sqm to 200,000 sqm. This includes 25 luxury and bridge-line brands (up from 16 currently), making it Thailand’s only luxury mall outside Bangkok with the most comprehensive collection of luxury brands. This expansion supports the growth of Thailand’s luxury market, valued at over USD 5 billion, with an annual growth forecast of 6.15% until 2028—outpacing markets like Singapore. The Thai luxury market, driven primarily by fashion and social media influences, is thriving despite global slowdowns. Advertising spend by luxury brands in Thailand grew by 214% in First Half of the Year 2024, the highest in Asia, and global brands are increasingly appointing Thai KOLs as brand ambassadors, reflecting their influence on young consumers," said Dr. Nattakit.

Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree, Regional General Manager - PKT & PK1 CPN-Asset Group 1 added, “Central Phuket currently hosts 15 luxury brands, and by 2024, the number will increase to 16, including Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Bulgari, Celine, Dior, Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Omega, PMT The Hour Glass, Prada, Saint Laurent, Tiffany & Co., Versace, and Zegna. Recent updates include:

• Louis Vuitton: Southern Thailand’s largest boutique extension.
• Prada: The largest boutique in Thailand (597 sqm).
• Tiffany & Co.: A flagship store.
• Bulgari: Pop-up store debuting outside Bangkok.
• Celine: Opening in December 2024.
  Additionally, relocated stores such as Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, and YSL have enhanced the zone.

Other highlights include the first Lululemon outside Bangkok and the newest ZARA Flagship Store, Southeast Asia’s largest at 1,800 sqm, which recorded the highest first-day sales in Asia on November 1 and is currently the third-best-performing ZARA in Thailand after Bangkok, further affirming Phuket's potential as a global brand hub.”

Current Traffic & Tourist Insights

The mall sees an average daily Traffic of 80,000, expected to rise by 25% to 100,000 once the expansion is complete, with 70% being international visitors. The top five nationalities are Russians, Chinese, Americans, Singaporeans, and Hong Kongers. Spending per visit by The 1 Members at Central Phuket is five times higher than at other malls, and The 1 Exclusive members spend six times more. A key draw is the availability of rare items not found elsewhere.

Five Pillars of Phuket’s Position as a World-Class Coastal Luxury Destination

1. World-Class Infrastructure
   • Phuket International Airport is undergoing Phase 2 expansion (completion by 2029) to accommodate over 18 million passengers (current capacity: 16 million). Currently, the airport handles nearly 100,000 flights annually, averaging 300 flights per day, with direct flights to global hubs such as Dubai and Doha.
   • Thailand’s first 5-star private jet terminal handles 156 private jets annually.
2. Luxurious Shopping & Dining

   Central Phuket is Thailand’s only luxury mall outside Bangkok, offering over 15 luxury brands and world-class dining experiences, including Su Va Na, recognized as the world's best underwater restaurant.

3. Ultra-Luxury Properties & Hospitality

   Phuket features over 17 ultra-luxury residential projects valued above THB 100 million, making it a top-four global destination for wealthy property buyers. Land prices have surged 700% over the past 20 years, with hotspots like Rawai Beach and Bangtao (Phuket’s equivalent of Bangkok’s Thonglor).

4. Exclusive Activities
   • Five superyacht marinas.
   • 16 world-class golf courses.
   • 28 Michelin-starred restaurants.
5. Global Health & Education Hub

   Phuket offers nine world-class hospitals and 13 international schools, elevating its status as a medical and educational hub.

Special Campaign & Promotions

To celebrate its 6^th anniversary, Central Phuket has launched the concept LIVE. LUXE. LOVE., capturing Phuket’s allure as a second home for long-stay tourists, a hub for luxury lifestyle experiences, and a romantic dream destination.

Promotions include:

• Top Spender Reward: Accumulate spending of THB 8 million or more to win a VIP trip to see the Northern Lights in Finland (business class flights, 5-star accommodations, private transfers).
• Exclusive Offers for The 1 Members: Spend THB 150,000 to receive an E-voucher worth THB 6,000, or spend THB 50,000 to receive THB 2,000. Earn 20,000 bonus points for total spending of THB 300,000. Cashback offers of up to 17% with Thai and international credit cards, plus numerous exclusive deals.

Central Phuket is not just a shopping destination—it’s a symbol of success in elevating Phuket to become a “Top Destination for Global Jetsetters” and a world-class hub of luxury and lifestyle.

To follow updates from Central Pattana, please visit:

https://www.centralpattana.co.th/en/shopping/shopping-update/lifestyle-activities

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