Department store/Central Chidlom

Editorial staff

Central Department Store under Central Retail is set to officially open on Dec 24 with Nam Joo Hyuk, its first brand ambassador.

Natira Boonsri, chief executive officer of Central Department Store Group, under Central Retail, said that Central Chidlom, the flagship store of Central Department Store Group under Central Retail, is set to redefine the retail landscape with its concept ‘The Store of Bangkok.’  This strategic transformation positions the iconic department store as Thailand's no.1 luxury department store.

Natira Boonsri

Central Chidlom combines world-class architectural concepts with Thai design elements,emphasizing diversity as the foundation of its vibrant and dynamic space, developed in collaboration with global consulting experts. The design begins with a unique glass façade that can be illuminated, and features a new Sky Terrace entrance directly connecting the Chit-Lom BTS station to the first floor of Central Chidlom. The store features Terrazzo stones in a distinctive Chidlom Pink, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of shopping in a luxurious European department store.  

“We aim to empower every customer to curate their unique lifestyle and personal identity. Luxury is not defined by cost, but by the ability to express individual style and taste. The potential for Thailand's luxury market remains incredibly promising,” Ms Natira said.

In just the past six months from June 1 and November 30, 2024, Central Chidlom had already achieved a remarkable 25% growth. After completely its transformation in 2025, it projects a 30% increase in sales.

With a substantial investment of 4 billion baht, Central Chidlom offers a selection of luxury brands from around the world. This includes Beauty Galerie, that features over 150 world-class beauty brands like Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Prada Beauty, and La Mer. Highlights include a premium organic skincare zone, an exclusive niche fragrances section, unprecedented brand offerings such as Augustinus Bader, Officine Universelle Buly, and Valentino Beauty, as well as the first-in-Thailand Prada Beauty boutique alongside over 500 fashion brands.

Christian Louboutin Bar will be opened as the first of its kind in Asia.

Luxe Galerie provides Thailand's exclusive shop-in-shop luxury experience, featuring world-renowned brands including Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Burberry, Celine, Dolce & Gabbana, Emilio Pucci, Fendi, Gucci, Kenzo, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Missoni, Prada, Roger Vivier, Versace and more, with the upcoming addition of Chanel in December.

Customers can explore and try luxury footwear in one seamless walk from brands like Christian Louboutin, Cult Gia, Coperni, Jimmy Choo, Marni, Proenza, Schouler, Sergio Rossi, Sophia Webster, Tory Burch,and Tod's at Shoes Avenue. The zone introduces the exclusive Christian Louboutin Bar – a first in Asia, offering special beverage experiences.

Moreover, the store features unique brands such as Archivépke, C.P. Company, GCDS, Giuseppe Zanotti, Mardi Mercredi Actif, Mach & Mach, René Caovilla, Rockfish Weatherwear, Simkhai, SUNNEI, Samo Ondoh, Versace Jeans Couture, and TAW&TOE - many making their first appearance in Thailand.

It also offers over 800 unique sneaker pairs, including limited edition collections, street fashion for the next-generation consumer, and special edition releases from multiple international brands.

Central Chidlom is a must-visit for home lovers and parent who look for top global brands for children.

Nam Joo Hyuk

Ms Natira said that Central Chidlom eyes a diverse audiences from foreign tourists and expatriates, wealth & premium customers, families & kids and Gen Y & Gen Z. After completing its transformation, the store aims to attract 30,000 visitors daily, spanning both local and global markets:

There is no new department stores opening next year because operators keep more focus on store renovation.

Ms Natira is optimistic for department store outlook next year due to positive tourism industry. Sales from foreign tourists at Chidlom has already surpassed the pre-Covid-19 pandemic. Main shoppers are from Russia, Middle East, India and CLMV. High spending customers still have active lifestyle.

The company plans to allocate 100 million baht to complete the transformation of Robinson Department Store’s Bangrak branch to Central Department Store next year. It will also make a facelift of Central Department Store in Pinklao and Changwattana location. In 2026, the company plans to spend of 500 million baht to transform two Robinson Department Store branch to Central Department Store.