Thailand — CP AXTRA, operator of leading wholesale and retail brands Makro and Lotus’s, is advancing its digital transformation strategy in Thailand with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud technologies. The initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency, support online sales growth, and adapt to evolving consumer expectations.
The company has entered a strategic partnership with Tencent Cloud, formalised earlier this year through a Memorandum of Understanding. The collaboration brings together CP AXTRA’s retail expertise with Tencent Cloud’s technology solutions to optimise operations across more than 2,600 stores in Thailand.
As part of the agreement, CP AXTRA is adopting Tencent Cloud’s suite of services, including Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), AI-driven big data and database platforms, and container management through Tencent Kubernetes Engine (TKE). These tools enable elastic scaling of IT infrastructure, cost efficiency, and support for AI-driven improvements in inventory management and sales forecasting.
Tarin Thaniyavarn, group chief technology & data officers and group chief e-commerce officer at CP AXTRA explained how the company’s roadmap is about adopting new technologies, empowering people, and creating smarter, more agile operations to benefit customers and employees.
“By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and working closely with Tencent Cloud, we are reducing repetitive workloads, enabling our employees to focus on higher-value tasks, and setting ambitious targets for online growth,” Tarin said.
“This partnership is a testament to our dedication to sustainable, technology-driven progress and our vision to lead the region into a new era of smart retail.”
Chen Rui, vice president of international business and managing director for Southeast Asia at Tencent Cloud shared similar sentiments regarding the partnership and supporting the future of smart retail.
“By combining Tencent Cloud’s advanced AI and cloud infrastructure with CP AXTRA’s deep industry expertise, we are helping to solve complex challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth,” Chen said.
“Together, we are setting a new standard for digital innovation in the retail sector and demonstrating the immense potential of cloud technology to drive sustainable business success.”
The partnership also includes the launch of CP AXTRA’s Weixin/WeChat Mini Program. The platform provides Chinese-speaking consumers with direct access to Thai products, offering a seamless cross-border shopping experience. Customers can browse and purchase items from everyday essentials to local specialities, with delivery services extending across Asia.
