Date Added:
15/12/2009
Before the turn of the millennium, the biggest brand on Koh Samui was probably Bob Marley, but massive economic growth and major developments in tourism have led to a significant increase in global interest and investment. As is often the case, it was the retail sector that led the brand invasion with golden arches, superstores and high street pharmaceuticals taking over from street stalls and family-run corner shops. More recently, the hospitality sector followed suit with mainstream hotel chains and now, largely on the back of big name resorts with mixed use strategies, the island’s property industry has expanded to include international, corporate agencies and developers.
In the coming months, well known firms such as CB Richard Ellis, Savills and Raimon Land will all begin to exert their influence on Samui, either representing or developing projects that will eventually transform the island’s residential landscape. The advent of “Brand Samui” may mark the beginning of a new phase in the island’s evolution and could stimulate the recovery that many feel is now desperately needed.
“What’s coming online now around Samui is very different from before,” says Robert Collins, managing director of Savills, Thailand. “Many of the new projects under way will prove even more significant for the island than the construction of new golf courses and the arrival of new airlines. Resort brands offer an international seal of approval.” |
