Visa Cardholders Spend THB 7 billion in First Month of Amazing Thailand Grand Sale

The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2011 is proving to be a huge success among international shoppers with THB 7 billion being spent by foreign Visa cardholders during the first month of the sale (15 June - 15 July), a 51% increase on the same period in 2010.

The THB 7 billion spend shows continued strong performances in the tourism and retail industries this year. Visa cardholders from Japan, Australia and the US were the top three spenders and the top spend categories, excluding airfare and accommodation, were jewelry, hospitals and duty-free.

Somboon Krobteeranon, Country Manager, Thailand, Visa said, “This is a great boost for Thailand’s retail and tourism sectors. Despite some concerns that there could be a downturn this year in line with ongoing regional and global economic uncertainty, this shows the resilience of the sector, the attraction of the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale and the great promotions we have worked together with our partners to design and deliver.”

During the annual shopping extravaganza, Visa and the Tourism Authority of Thailand have launched a series of promotions and prizes for all shoppers. These include the “30-Day Experience Amazing Thailand Holiday” prize which is open to overseas shoppers and, for local shoppers, the chance to win a THB 1 million gift voucher. To qualify for either draw, shoppers simply need to spend THB 500 on a single receipt between 15 June and 15 August 2011 at participating merchants for one chance at winning. Shoppers can enjoy a double chance when they pay with their Visa card.

Top 10 contributors to visitor spending in Thailand during the first month of the Grand Sale, as measured by spending on Visa-branded payment cards were:

1. Japan
2. Australia
3. United States
4. United Kingdom
5. Singapore
6. South Korea
7. UAE
8. Hong Kong, China
9. France
10. China

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