Parts retailer Burson sets up Thai shop to fill market void
Burson, a leading Australian auto parts supplier, is to open its first store outside Australia in Bangkok, in partnership with the Sammitr Group.
“Burson Auto Parts Thailand represents a new step in our international growth plans,” said Darryl Abotomey, chief executive and managing director of parent firm Bapcor. “Our new store in Bang Bon in Bangkok provides Thai automotive trade and automotive consumers with a one-stop shop for everything they require in parts, accessories, tools and equipment.”
Spanning 1,600 square metres across four levels, the store will offer an extensive range of premium-quality original equipment parts.
“No foreign company has managed to establish itself in the Thai auto parts market, which is composed mainly of small operators with one or two stores,” said Darryl Gray, general manager of Burson Auto Parts Thailand. “We plan to open four or five stores in Thailand this year and to eventually have more than 20 stores selling premium international brands alongside local brands. Thailand has a mature automotive market with a good supply chain.”
A second Bangkok store will open on Srinakarin Road in the Bang Na area next month, while others are planned for Min Buri, Bang Yai, Bang Khen and Ram Intra.
Having launched its first store in 1971, Burson steadily became Australia’s leading supplier of automotive parts, tools, accessories and equipment.
Burson is part of Bapcor Ltd, a listed Australian company. Burson’s entry into Thailand is in partnership with Sammitr Group, which specialises in commercial auto parts and manufacturing.
Mr Abotomey said Sammitr Group will bring vast local automotive expertise and efficiencies to the Australian firm, ensuring a wide range of products and services.
Burson will also provide Thai repairers and end-users with a premium range of lubricants, car care products, mechanical tools and workshop equipment sourced from high-quality manufacturers.
“If we are successful in Bangkok, we plan to open other branches outside the capital and in neighbouring countries,” Mr Gray said.