Thailand Post teams up with 6ty Degrees

NEWSPAPER SECTION: Business, WRITER: Kuakul Mornkum, Komsan Tortermvasana, Somhathai Mosika

Producers of bagged rice and bottled mineral water have said they will maintain current prices until the end of April, with any future price changes dependent on developments in the Middle East.

Somkiat Makcayathorn, executive director of PRG Corporation Plc, the producer of Mah Boonkrong Rice, told the Bangkok Post that the conflicts in the Middle East affect all businesses.

For the bagged rice industry, a key concern is the rising cost of plastic bags, which have increased by 25-60%, depending on the type and size.

“Our current stock will last until the end of April. If the conflicts continue and high plastic prices persist, we will need to discuss price adjustments with the Commerce Ministry,” he said.

Bagged rice is not on the price control list and therefore does not require approval from the authorities for price changes, said Mr Somkiat.

The bagged rice market is highly competitive, with sales promotions planned about two months in advance with modern trade and supermarket operators.

“Distribution channels are another important issue for the bagged rice market. Typically, modern trade operators set the gross profit rate at around 20%, which is significant for rice suppliers. This should be discussed if we need to adjust prices,” he said.

Rena Udomkunnatum, owner of Rare Beverage Co Ltd, the manufacturer of the Thai mineral water brand 6ty Degrees, said suppliers informed her there is adequate bottle packaging stock for now, and they intend to maintain current prices until April.

After discussions with suppliers, she said if the conflict continues, plastic bottles are unlikely to become scarce, but production costs for bottled water will likely increase in May.

The company is monitoring the situation and plans to keep prices steady for as long as possible, said Ms Rena.

The conflict is likely to push inflation higher and reduce consumer purchasing power, but drinking water remains an essential item, she said.

DELIVERY PARTNERSHIP

In a related matter, Thailand Post Co Ltd announced on Wednesday its partnership with 6ty Degrees.

Thailand Post plans to deliver “wellness” to households nationwide through its new business model, said president Dhanant Subhadrabandhu.

Leveraging Thailand Post’s extensive nationwide delivery network, the initiative offers free home delivery, catering to modern consumers who prioritise both health and convenience, he added.

The state enterprise predicts that 1% of its household customers will use this free delivery service for the water brand, said Mr Dhanant.

Thailand Post specialises in door-to-door delivery through its nationwide network of more than 25,000 postmen, who are familiar with every area in the country and deeply integrated into local communities.

The partnership is expected to boost logistics volumes for Thailand Post’s health and wellness segment, supporting the long-term growth of Thailand’s wellness economy, he added.

Published Date: March 20, 2026