Pavilion Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur is adding to its vibrant retail mix by welcoming three ‘Made in Thailand’ brands – Ecotopia, Absolute Siam and ICONCRAFT to the mall’s new Thai precinct.
Opens to shoppers from Feb 28, the3-in-1 open-concept store occupies 11,000 square feet retail space and encapsulates each individual brand’s personality as Ecotopia, Absolute Siam and ICONCRAFT showcase Thai creativity and environmental conscious and sustainably sourced products from local Thai artisans.
Kuala Lumpur Pavilion Sdn Bhd retail chief executive officer Datuk Joyce Yap said the launch of Ecotopia, Absolute Siam and ICONCRAFT gives local and international shoppers the opportunity to experience Thailand without leaving Malaysia.
“Shoppers can now explore these purposeful new brands and experience the best of Thai craftmanship and creativity through its highly curated selection of merchandise under one roof, with this unique and immersive retail concept,” she said.
Present to officiate the opening ceremony was guest of honour Royal Thai Embassy deputy head of mission Piyapin Niyomrerks who represented Chainarong Keratiyutwong, ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia.
The launch was followed by a contemporary fashion show highlighting star products from each of the curated brands Ecotopia, Absolute Siam and ICONCRAFT.
Siam Piwat Retail Holding retail chief executive officer Usara Yongipiyakul said the opening of the three brands is a significant milestone of partnership between Siam Piwat and Pavilion Group which reinforces the company’s aspiration to bring Thai brands and products onto the world stage.
“We are proud to be taking SMEs products that have proven popular among foreigners to countries with high purchasing power while building awareness of Thai brands and designers internationally with the launch of the first Ecotopia, Absolute Siam, and ICONCRAFT stores outside of Thailand.
“For more than 10 years, Siam Piwat has been working with several agencies to incubate Thai entrepreneurs by training them how to design and market their products. We are proud to take our initiative further by giving them the exposure to showcase and sell their products to an international audience and introduce Thai culture, creative modern designs and traditional handicrafts to the Malaysian market,” she said.
Ecotopia, Absolute Siam Store, and ICONCRAFT each represents a unique aspect of Thai culture:
Ecotopia focuses on bringing together an eco-conscious community with a belief that “Together, We Co-Create a Better World”. In collaboration with 12 eco-creators, it delivers a new and friendly eco-centric experience. Amongst the brands on offer are Seasun Society, an eco-friendly skincare line, and Magfish, an art and crafts business that uses recycled materials.
Absolute Siam Store is focused on Thailand’s avant-garde fashion, providing a platform for up-and-coming Thai designers to showcase their creativity and fashion prowess. Over 60 fashion, art, tech and lifestyle brands are represented in this multi-brand concept shop. Mahanakon, TA.THA.TA, Coralist, Sue and Anonaare among the prominent Thai designers featured, with popular items including Mahanakon’s Durian Run Run graphic t-shirt, Sue’s Printed Wrap Pants and TA.THA.TA’s quirky Jam Bag.
ICONCRAFT showcases Thailand’s unique arts and crafts, with products from over 800 craftsmen, designers, and local communities. Jewellery, home decor, one-of-a-kind handicrafts, lifestyle artefacts, scents and fragrances are among the myriad of products offered in-store. Some brands featured are Bangkok Baskets that sell handmade bags with contemporary designs, and Kitt. Ta. Khon that features modern hand-woven furniture pieces.