In recent years, local and international retailers have rushed to set up shop to scout for business and investment opportunities in Dong Nai province. About 10 years ago, Big C, the leading European Retail Group was a pioneer, blazing a trail into the retail chain market in Dong Nai.
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| Mr. Guy Lacombe, General Director of Big C Vietnam |
Q: In recent years, local and international retailers have rushed to set up shop to scout for business and investment opportunities in Dong Nai province. What do you think about competition with other partners?
A: We are honor to be a pioneer, blazing a trail into the retail chain market in Dong Nai where still faced with infrastructural development problems. Nowadays, Dong Nai has become an attractive destination for investors from abroad and other parts of
Q: I’m understanding what you say means that you look ready for stiffer competition in the future. Is it right?
A: Big C has so far invested around US$100 million in Vietnam including US$30 million in Dong Nai province, in which the Vietnamese partner holds a 35 percent stake in the venture. We will open another supermarket in Dong Nai if Dong Nai province government approves a proposal from our company.
Q: As a pioneer, blazing a trail into the retail chain market in Dong Nai, what’s your assessment of Vietnamese consumers’ attitudes towards your supermarket?
A: Since being established in 1998, Big C Dong Nai supermarket has become the dominant retailing format in the region and a favorite place for local residents and a frequent tradition for regular visitors. Vietnamese customers are increasingly demanding high-quality and hygienic products. Generally, the demands and needs are growing and expanding.
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Q: Ten years ago, it was said that shopping in the supermarket was considered as one of life’s little pleasure that was enjoyed by local residents because this type of retailing format was
scarce at that time. More competitive market with increasing presence of domestic and foreign retailers such as Sai Gon Co.op Mart, Maximart, Metro …, what do you think about this?A: Big C Dong Nai encounters a growing success with an average monthly increase of 20% in turnover and a monthly increase of 9% in the number of customers. Despite fiercer competition in the Vietnamese retail sector from newcomers, Big C Dong Nai maintains its creed to the consumer. Our business is booming with more and more customers coming back to shop with us to enjoy quality products, expertise and great customer service.
Q: According to you, why do Big C always attract the consumers?
A: “The more famous you are, the more you must protect your name,” is the motto of Big C. We ensure to provide high quality products with competitive prices and excellent services to our customers. Big C always has from 35,000 to 48,000 products to offer its customers.
Q: How will Big C’s operation be affected if
A: The main thing I am interested in is that how and when
Q: What objectives will Big C focus on in the next time?
A: We will continue to enhance the quality of products and provide our clients with the highest quality products and services, which best satisfy their needs. If the project is approved soon by Dong Nai province’s leaders, Big C will strive to reach annual revenue of VND 700 billion, increase its export turnover from the current level of US$20 million to US$ 40 million and plan to double its employees to 1,200 in the next time.
Reported by Kim Loan
