The Department of Industrial Promotion (DIP) has launched a new project to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) expand their sales channels online and in convenience stores by asking CP All Plc, the operator of 7-Eleven shops, to lend a hand.
Up to 100 sellers comprising SMEs and community enterprises will be selected to join the project if their products meet criteria set by CP All, said Nattapol Rangsitpol, chief of the department.
"This project will help SMEs and community enterprises to survive the pandemic's impact and stimulate the grassroots economy," he said.
The department expects expanded sales channels will provide sellers an opportunity to better distribute their products to consumers.
"7-Eleven is a well-known modern trade outlet with up to 10,000 branches countrywide," said Mr Nattapol.
"Not only can entrepreneurs sell their products in convenience stores, but they may also get an opportunity to expand their business to the networks of 7-Eleven and CP All."
The department and CP All are discussing cooperation in exchanging business know-how and jointly finding ways to develop and adjust entrepreneurs to changes in the market and public lifestyles, he said.
"This cooperation will pave the way to add value to entrepreneurs' businesses," said Mr Nattapol.
Yuthasak Poomsurakul, co-managing director of CP All, said Covid-19 caused a negative outcome for 7-Eleven stores, but the company is ready to work with the department to help SMEs sell goods that match consumer demand.
Mr Yuthasak believes 7-Eleven's online and offline sales channels will help SMEs and community enterprises survive the crisis.
