Uniaire eyes region for more export
Uniaire Corporation, a Thai air conditioner maker, is expanding its presence in Southeast Asia, seeking to double its export volume over the next three years.
The company aims for total revenue of 700 million baht by 2020 from 400 million last year, of which 25% came from exports and 75% the domestic market.
Managing director Naran Sirisantana said the company plans to ship more original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and completely knocked down (CKD) products to neighbouring countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia and Vietnam to propel economic growth there.
“These countries prefer buying products from Thailand,” he said.
By 2020, Uniaire expects t o double its export value to 200 million baht from 100 million last year. The contribution from exports is projected t o reach 50% of total production.
The company supplies OEM and CKD products to more than 70 countries, with major markets including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and countries in Central America.
Mr Naran said Thailand is the world’s second-largest maker for air conditioners after China, with a capacity of at least 15 million units a year. International brands from the US, Japan, and South Korea have situated their production bases here for domestic and export purposes.
To meet changing customer expectations, Uniaire wants to use new environmentally friendly technology and materials in production. Last year it was honoured by the Energy Ministry as one of the most energy-efficient firms based on its use of innovative production technology.
Uniaire is the oldest air conditioner producer in Thailand, founded by Mr Naran’s father 45 years ago. It has a factory in Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan, and produces and distributes air conditioners under its own brand Uni-Aire.