Core Viewpoint - The retail industry is undergoing unprecedented changes due to the digital wave, driven by rapid internet technology advancements, shifts in consumer behavior, and increasing market competition. Retail leaders must focus on reshaping their competitive edge and achieving transformation in the digital era [1]. Group 1: Company Overview - CP AXTRA has evolved from a small supermarket to a leading retail giant in Southeast Asia, operating over 2,700 stores across 10 countries with annual revenues exceeding $15 billion [2]. - The company owns multiple supermarket brands, including Makro and Lotus's, and has significantly impacted the retail landscape in Southeast Asia [4][6]. Group 2: Historical Context - The retail model has transformed from small grocery stores with limited selection and inefficient pricing to modern supermarkets, starting with the first supermarket, King Cullen, established in 1930 [5]. - The introduction of the "Cash & Carry" model by SHV in 1968 marked a significant shift in retail, leading to the establishment of Makro in Thailand in 1989, which became a nationwide success [6][8]. Group 3: Digital Transformation - CP AXTRA is undergoing a substantial digital transformation, recognizing the need to adapt to changing consumer habits accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 50% of sales in some markets coming from online channels [11]. - The company is not merely developing an app but is overhauling its entire store operations and supply chain, requiring significant technological advancements and cultural shifts within the organization [11][14]. Group 4: Partnership with Tencent Cloud - CP AXTRA has partnered with Tencent Cloud to facilitate its digital transformation, leveraging advanced technologies such as public cloud services, databases, big data, and AI applications [18][21]. - The collaboration involves a dedicated international technical team from Tencent Cloud working closely with CP AXTRA to ensure alignment between business and technology [22][23]. Group 5: Future Goals - CP AXTRA aims to enhance its online sales to 50% by 2030, up from 18% currently, as part of its digital transformation strategy [29]. - The company believes that intelligent collaboration will lead to smarter business operations and a promising future in smart retail [31].
用数字化转型撬动智能零售未来——《财富》专访CP AXTRA首席技术与数据官兼集团电子商务官Tarin Thaniyavarn