Central, partners invest Bt70 million in ‘Tourism 4.0’ with Songkran activities

Digital ping-pong, water-gun laser wars, an LED water tunnel, a high-pressure hydro-tower, foam parties, music concerts and fashion shows are among the attractions on offer. 
Central Pattana, Thai Beverage, Singha Corp and M2F have together invested Bt70 million in the Songkran celebration continuing through Wednesday, April 19, at CentralWorld, CentralPlaza and CentralFestival – in all 17 branches across the country.
Central chief operating officer Pakorn Partanapat said the aim was to foster “Tourism 4.0” in support of the government’s “Thailand 4.0” plan. The fun and safe activities are designed to promote Thai culture and boost Thailand’s image overseas. 
“The Songkran Festival is known around the world,” Pakorn noted. “The number of tourists visiting Thailand during Songkran increases every year – it’s the peak season. The total number of flights now coming in has increased by 10 per cent from last year. This will improve the economy, generating more than Bt10 billion in cash revenues, and reflecting confidence among consumers and tourists.” 
The “festive vibe” at Central malls will “encourage people to come out and participate in the water-splashing activities”, Pakorn said, adding that the Thai New Year holiday is also a time of family reunions.
All branches will have free giveaways and discounts on merchandise and a “Summer Aquaful Life 2017 Traveller Privilege Programme” for foreign tourists who make purchases with The1Card International Visitor or an EPOS Card. Those who spend Bt8,000 or more will receive a specially design tumbler from Paul Frank. 
“We hope every foreign visitor goes home happy, which will encourage them to share and send out positive messages supporting Thai tourism among the next generation,” said Pakorn. “The campaign is expected to boost customer traffic at our shopping centres by 20 per cent and will certainly help increase the happiness of customers and tourists 100 per cent.”