Laos’ capital’s convenience store chain M Point Mart is set for an overhaul as Vientiane’s Phontan store staff confirm joint venture set see the city’s ubiquitous late night shopping outlets rebranded as Mini Big C with 24 hour shopping hours expected.
Setting up in Vientiane’s old town before expanding over the past decade to become ubiquitous upon many a street corner in Vientiane, the Point brand has become synonymous with convenience shopping in the capital.
Now the M Point Mart trade name appears to be making way for brand Big C, with the first Phontan store is already fully decked out in Mini Big C livery and staff dressed in uniform.
Well known local and international brands Beerlao Lao Brewing Company, Beer Leo and Coca-Cola beverages had promotional representatives to welcome customers to the suburban outlet on the last Saturday in December.
Already familiar to Laos’ many cross-border shoppers, it appears Thai retailer Big C’s foray on the Lao side of the river could mark a wider range of choice for the consumer living in the capital and beyond.
It comes after a long-awaited yet never realized outlet opening once planned for Vientiane’s Talat Sao Shopping Mall, the current status of which remains unconfirmed.
According to the company’s Thai website English page, “Mini Big C is a 24-hour convenience store.”
“Under management of Big C, we serve you with convenience, conciseness of only 80-100 sq.m. store size in community central area (sic), friendly services and variety of over 3,500 daily used products including not only leading brands but also Big C Brand for best value of money.
“Small sized products are our focus. Finally, what make us different from other convenience stores is fresh meat, fruit, and vegetables we offer.”
