Boots boosts Asia network

Health and beauty retailer Alliance Boots will increase its focus on Asia with further expansion and new markets in its sights.

It specifically targets growth in its existing markets, including Thailand and China.

Alliance Boots, whose 200th Thailand store opened its door recently, will open 25 stores annually in the country until it reaches its target of 400 stores.

“We are proud that Boots Thailand has become one of the largest health and beauty pharmacy chains in the country. This opening is an excellent illustration of our ambition to make Boots a global brand and Alliance Boots a significant player in Asia. I am convinced that the group’s presence and achievements in Thailand will be a great asset for our further expansion in the region,” said Alliance Boots executive chairman Stefano Pessina.

Following the relaxation of foreign investment in China, Alliance Boots will also further expand its retail network in the mainland aside from its distribution channel.

Future Asian locations are also planned for Indonesia and Malaysia.

“The Asian economy is growing, with strong improvements in wealth and consumption. The only challenge is the bureaucracy and a lack of transparency in markets and regulations,” Pessina said.

Privately-owned Alliance Boots has a global store count of 3400.

GB

You have 7 articles remaining. Unlock 15 free articles a month, it’s free.