Hua Hin Asset, the firm behind the management of Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, is introducing a 3,000-square-meter convention hall to entice a fresh wave of visitors and tenants, with the target of elevating occupancy to 90% and achieving the break-even point within a three-year timeframe.
As mentioned by Vajee Klomkliang, a member of the company’s executive team, the decision to expand was prompted by the resurgence of tourism activities in Hua Hin and the escalating footfall at their mall throughout the previous year.
Ms. Klomkliang noted that the rebound in tourism in Hua Hin mirrored the trend seen in Bangkok last year. The mall experienced a notable upsurge in visitor numbers, registering a 30% increase in foot traffic in 2023 to 15,000 individuals on weekdays and 20,000-25,000 on weekends, even without the addition of new anchor tenants. This positive trend continued with a 20% rise in foot traffic in the first half of 2024.
In a bid to further enhance foot traffic by an estimated 40% in the latter part of the year, the company allocated 50 million baht towards constructing the convention hall. This new amenity is envisioned to draw visitors from various locations, particularly those involved in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (Mice) sector.
Situated on the first floor of Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, the convention hall can host 2,000 people in a standing position, accommodate 1,200-1,300 seated attendees in a theater setup, or seat 128 dinner tables each with eight seats.
Named Bluport Hall and certified by the Thailand Mice Venue Standard in the special event segment, it is anticipated to be the largest indoor event space in the western and upper southern regions, according to Ms. Klomkliang. The current largest venue in the area has an 800-seat capacity.
The hall is slated to open early next month, with Ms. Klomkliang mentioning that it is already 50% reserved for events up to the year-end.
Additionally, plans are in place to launch a museum named The Collections in September 2024, spanning 1,900 square meters and primarily showcasing vintage cars, with around 10% of the space dedicated to art pieces like paintings and sculptures.
The introduction of the convention hall and museum is anticipated to elevate the mall’s occupancy rate from the current 70-80% to 90% next year. These new features aim to attract fresh tenants with interests in Mice-related businesses and vintage cars. The mall boasts a total lettable area of 60,000 square meters.
Hua Hin Asset looks forward to recovering its investment within three years, intending to host events five days a week moving forward.
Ms. Klomkliang highlighted that post-pandemic, the Russian market has shown increased activity in Hua Hin, particularly for short stays. Notably, their jazz festival featuring a Russian musician attracted around 1,000 Russian attendees.
