Ho Chi Minh City, 25 November 2016, Central Group and Big C this week hosted a Partner’s Meeting in Ho Chi Minh City, where the Group’s new policies to support and develop startups and SMEs in Vietnam was revealed.  Under the banner of “Shared Vision, Shared Success”, the Group expounded upon its vision to contribute to the prosperity of Vietnam and Vietnamese people.

Acknowledging the crucial role that Vietnamese partners and suppliers have played in the success of Central Group and Big C, CEO Mr. Philippe Broianigo announced the Group’s lofty goal to double both its sales and number of outlets by 2021 with a strategy focused upon affordability, product diversity and aggressive promotion, hand-in-hand with an enhanced commitment to the nation’s community.  According to Mr. Broianigo, this is all underpinned by the Group’s tight links to local partners and enterprises.

These efforts have been broadly recognised by partners and suppliers nationwide, with Rượu Sáu Tía representative, Mr. Nguyễn Phú Tia, told the audience at the session that he deeply appreciated Big C’s introduction of his product to the market, leading to both a spike in sales and a drastic increase in the brand awareness of his range of wines.

“Simply being available in Big C is a symbol of quality and trust to Vietnam’s market,” he said.  “It signals to consumers that your brand has met the highest possible qualifications and QC.  We really appreciate this kind of endorsement.”

With over 95% of Vietnamese enterprises considered as SMEs, Mr. Broianigo outlined four pillars of Big C and Central Group’s approach to the segment:

• Three year contract terms with SMEs
• Availability of products at all Central Group brands (including (Big C, Lan Chi, Nguyen Kim, Robins, Zalora Vietnam)
• Training programs in terms of technology and other relevant skills
• Acting as guarantor where appropriate to assist SMEs with access to loans and other financial services

The partner’s meeting of Central Group Vietnam and Big C Vietnam, which was held for the first time, attracted more than 400 small and large enterprises. Earlier this month, at HCMC Tenant’s meeting on 17 November, Central Group Vietnam and Big C Vietnam also announced its intention to invest US$30 million in Vietnam in the next 5 years to overhaul and renovate Big C Vietnam into modern, high-end multi-service  retail complexes.