Leading online food delivery companies have expressed backing for the government’s proposal to revive the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme, aimed at stimulating the economy.
Chantsuda Thananitayaudom, Managing Director of Grab Thailand, stated that Grab fully supports the new administration’s move to bring back the scheme, emphasizing its potential to boost economic activity, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the food sector.
“We saw tangible results from participating in the scheme three years ago, with merchants experiencing sales increases of up to five times. Once the scheme is confirmed, we’re ready to collaborate through marketing campaigns and subsidies to maximize its benefits,” Ms. Chantsuda said.
Representatives from online delivery services and the Thai Restaurant Association met with Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, on Tuesday to discuss the scheme’s revival as part of efforts to revive Thailand’s slowing economy. They also explored whether delivery operators could reduce their gross profit fees for participants, though no conclusion was reached during the meeting. Previously, operators agreed to lower these fees as required by the Fiscal Policy Office.
Yod Chinsupakul, CEO of Line Man Wongnai, proposed implementing a usage period for the scheme. Rather than disbursing the full subsidy amount at once, he suggested allocating funds weekly, which could encourage consumers to spend gradually over time and help sustain consistent economic activity.
Line Man Wongnai reported that restaurant sales across Thailand have been in decline throughout the year, with a 14% drop in the second quarter alone. In Bangkok, sales decreased by 16%, with central business districts experiencing a 19% decline, and popular areas like Banthat Thong seeing a 35% plunge.
According to Mr. Yod, many restaurant owners find this year particularly difficult. He recounted that participation in the previous co-payment scheme resulted in small restaurants experiencing sales growth of 1.7 to 4 times, with delivery-only sales increasing by an average of 2.5 times compared to pre-programme levels.
He emphasized that the scheme is especially beneficial for SMEs, as the right support can help them operate more efficiently and motivate ongoing improvement. Additionally, the scheme’s structure helps reduce fraud since customers are required to co-pay, and transactions are with verified, registered merchants.
“If the government decides to relaunch the scheme, Line Man Wongnai is prepared to provide its up-to-date restaurant database to support the initiative, saving merchants from needing to undergo verification again,” Mr. Yod added.