News

AI Storm: How Brands Are Using Digital ‘Spell-utions’ for Savvy Shoppers

Published

2 months ago

October 28, 2024

With AI transforming the digital landscape, brands are deploying smart and innovative strategies to captivate today’s discerning consumers. Marketers are harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) in creative ways to craft campaigns that engage audiences and boost conversions in a time of tighter budgets and economic uncertainty. Here’s how brands are casting digital ‘spell-utions’ to reach the modern shopper.

Leveraging Marketing Psychology in AI-Powered Campaigns

AI-powered marketing psychology is leading the charge, focusing on human behavior and decision-making to optimize engagement.

The Exposure Effect – Building Familiarity and Trust

According to Manita Chinda of Digital Tip Academy, the exposure effect is a key technique in AI-driven campaigns. By increasing the frequency with which a product or brand appears to consumers, marketers can boost recognition and preference. For instance, the popularity of Moo Deng, the adorable pygmy hippo, shows how repetition can drive global brand appeal.

Goal Gradient Effect – Encouraging Engagement at Every Stage

Another valuable tool in the marketer’s kit is the goal gradient effect—a technique that nudges consumers to keep moving towards their goals. Think of it as motivating consumers to take that final step in completing a purchase or signing up for a service, making it effective in e-commerce funnels.

With Gen Z and younger consumers, social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram are now crucial for shopping decisions. Sitthinunt Pholvisutsak of Content Shifu notes that these platforms provide a seamless shopping experience, combining entertainment with instant buying options, and have become powerful tools for targeted marketing.

TikTok’s E-Commerce Features – Engaging and Converting Younger Audiences

TikTok is quickly growing as a preferred platform for younger shoppers, making it essential for marketers to leverage its e-commerce features, such as shoppable videos and live-streamed product demos. This social media-first approach appeals to Gen Z, who often combine social media browsing with online shopping.

Generative AI – Crafting Content at Scale

Generative AI (GenAI) is enabling brands to produce engaging content at scale, from blog articles to product videos, without overwhelming budgets. GenAI tools also support video creation, product descriptions, and even ad campaigns, giving brands a consistent presence across digital touchpoints.

AI-Driven Content Personalization – Tailoring Experiences for Better Results

Lead Insider’s Priya Narula emphasizes the power of personalization in AI marketing. AI can optimize ad timing and tailor messaging to fit each customer’s preferences, enhancing relevance and engagement across customer segments.

Data Science – The Backbone of Successful AI Campaigns

The intersection of data science and content artistry is shaping the future of successful campaigns. Anan Teerabruranapong from Data First explains that AI allows for rapid data analysis and automated data collection, delivering insights that fuel creative decisions and improve sales.

Using Big Data for Actionable Insights

By examining consumer data patterns, brands can better understand customer preferences and behavior. Automated data collection tools combined with sharp analysis can reveal invaluable insights that drive strategic content development.

Sustainability – Making AI Marketing Eco-Friendly

Even with its impressive capabilities, AI has an environmental impact, largely due to the high energy demands of data processing and programmatic advertising. Chanchai Pongsanan from Amplifi Thailand-Dentsu stresses the importance of sustainable practices in AI marketing, urging brands to balance cutting-edge marketing with eco-conscious decisions.

Reducing Carbon Footprint in AI Campaigns

Marketers are encouraged to adopt greener practices by setting standards that reduce energy consumption, focusing on programmatic advertising with lower carbon outputs, and incorporating sustainable approaches into marketing operations.

Human Touch in AI Marketing – Finding the Right Balance

Despite the advancements in AI, Paruj Daorai from the Digital Advertising Association (Thailand) reminds marketers that a human touch remains essential. AI may excel at unraveling consumer patterns, but connecting with audiences requires creativity, intuition, and a blend of both art and science.

Advolution 2024 – The Future of AI in Advertising

At the upcoming DAAT Day 2024 event, “Advolution – Reimagining Advertising, Clashing Art and Science,” marketers will explore how AI can do more than provide insights, challenging them to reshape the future of advertising with a balance of technology, artistry, and human insight.

Embracing AI to Connect with Today’s Consumers

As brands continue to adopt AI solutions, they’re finding new ways to resonate with savvy shoppers through personalized, data-driven campaigns. With a focus on psychology, social media, sustainable practices, and a human touch, marketers are redefining the future of advertising in a world where AI and consumer expectations are evolving together.

News

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra Celebrates New Year with Merit-Making Ceremony

Published

3 hours ago

January 2, 2025

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PM Paetongtarn Hosts Ceremony to Mark the New Year

On January 2, 2025, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her husband, Pitak Suksawat, presided over a merit-making ceremony at the Santi Maitri Building in Government House, Bangkok. This event was held to celebrate the New Year and reflect on the hopes for the year ahead.

Ceremonial Activities and New Year Wishes

Almsgiving and Paying Homage

During the ceremony, the couple participated in almsgiving to 68 monks in front of the Thai Khu Fah Building. They also paid homage to sacred shrines on the premises, including Phra Phrom, the household god, and other spirit shrines.

New Year Greetings

In her address, Prime Minister Paetongtarn extended warm New Year’s greetings to all Thais and members of the media, wishing them good health and prosperity for the upcoming year. Her lighthearted interaction with reporters about her traditional Thai outfit added a touch of humor to the proceedings.

Cabinet Meeting Following the Ceremony

Discussion with Cabinet Members

After the merit-making ceremony, Prime Minister Paetongtarn convened a meeting with her Cabinet members at the Thai Khu Fah Building. This meeting was aimed at discussing government initiatives and strategies for 2025.

Notable Absences

It is worth noting that key ministers from coalition parties were absent from the ceremony, including Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and leader of the Democrat Party.

A New Year of Opportunities

The merit-making ceremony led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra symbolizes a fresh start as Thailand enters 2025. With a focus on unity and progress, her administration aims to address challenges while promoting prosperity for all citizens. As discussions continue within her Cabinet, there is optimism for a year filled with opportunities and growth for the Thai people.

News

Thailand Welcomes Over 35 Million Tourists in 2024, Generating 1.66 Trillion Baht in Revenue

Published

3 hours ago

January 2, 2025

Wadi

Record Tourist Arrivals Boost Thailand’s Economy

In a significant boost to its economy, Thailand welcomed more than 35 million travelers in 2024, generating over 1.66 trillion baht in spending, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced these figures, highlighting the country’s recovery in tourism following the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Breakdown of Tourist Demographics

Top Visitor Nationalities

Among the visitors, Chinese tourists comprised the largest group, totaling 6.70 million, followed by Malaysians at 4.93 million, Indians at 2.12 million, and South Koreans and Russians, with 1.86 million and 1.72 million, respectively. This diverse influx of tourists reflects Thailand’s appeal as a premier travel destination.

Domestic Travel Insights

During the same period, Thai citizens made approximately 197.53 million trips within the country, contributing an additional 952.77 billion baht to the economy. This robust domestic travel indicates a strong local tourism market alongside international arrivals.

Recent Trends in Tourist Arrivals

Surge in Weekly Visitors

In the last week alone, Thailand saw an impressive arrival rate of 943,269 people, marking the highest weekly visitor numbers since 2020. The increase in both short and long-haul visitors demonstrates a growing confidence in traveling to Thailand.

Notable Increases from Key Markets

Over the past fortnight, around 100,000 visitors arrived weekly from Malaysia, making it the largest group during this time frame. Notably, arrivals from Russia, Malaysia, and India increased by 17.01%, 7.86%, and 5.14%, respectively, while there was a slight decline in arrivals from China and South Korea.

Challenges Facing the Tourism Sector

Revenue Targets Not Met

Despite the impressive visitor numbers, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) acknowledged that total tourism revenue fell short of its target of 3 trillion baht. Factors contributing to this shortfall include global economic slowdowns and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Impact of External Factors

The TAT noted that aggressive competition from other Asia-Pacific countries and uncertainties in major economies could pose challenges for Thailand’s tourism sector moving forward.

A Promising Future for Thai Tourism

The welcoming of over 35 million tourists in 2024 marks a significant milestone for Thailand’s tourism industry as it continues to recover from previous downturns. With strong domestic travel and a diverse influx of international visitors, Thailand is well-positioned for future growth. As it navigates external challenges, strategic efforts to enhance its tourism offerings will be crucial for sustaining this momentum into 2025 and beyond.

News

Thailand’s “Treatment Anywhere” Healthcare Policy Expands Nationwide

Published

3 hours ago

January 2, 2025

Wadi

Final Phase of the 30-Baht Universal Healthcare Scheme Launched

The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has officially launched the fourth and final phase of the “Treatment Anywhere” initiative, part of Thailand’s 30-baht universal healthcare scheme. This rollout commenced on January 1, 2025, covering all 76 provinces across the country.

Overview of the “Treatment Anywhere” Initiative

Background and Launch

Initially launched on January 7, 2024, in four pilot provinces—Phrae, Roi Et, Phetchaburi, and Narathiwat—the “Treatment Anywhere” program aims to enhance healthcare accessibility for all Thai citizens. Dr. Athaporn Limpanylers, deputy secretary-general of the NHSO, confirmed that this initiative is now operational nationwide.

Goals of the Policy

The primary objectives of this health policy include improving convenience and speed for healthcare access, ensuring timely financial support for healthcare providers, and implementing artificial intelligence (AI) systems for efficient pre-payment verification.

Enhancements to Healthcare Access

Integration of Data Systems

Dr. Athaporn emphasized the importance of integrating data systems among service providers to facilitate seamless information sharing. Accurate service and reimbursement data submissions are vital for the success of this initiative.

Improved Communication Channels

To further enhance service accessibility, the NHSO has expanded its hotline (1330), which operates 24/7. This allows individuals to request assistance and schedule appointments easily. Additionally, communication platforms such as Line (@NHSO) and Facebook have been established for public engagement.

Healthcare Units and Service Reach

Current Healthcare Infrastructure

As of December 27, 2024, there are 13,004 healthcare units operating within the system. This includes:

788 medical clinics
1,394 dental clinics
5,491 pharmacies
4,344 nursing clinics
340 physical therapy clinics
453 traditional Thai medicine clinics

This extensive network ensures that millions of citizens can access essential healthcare services.

User Engagement Statistics

So far, approximately 7.04 million people have utilized services under this scheme, demonstrating its growing impact on public health in Thailand.

A Step Towards Comprehensive Healthcare

The nationwide implementation of the “Treatment Anywhere” policy marks a significant advancement in Thailand’s healthcare system. By prioritizing accessibility and efficiency, this initiative aims to provide better health outcomes for all citizens while reducing financial burdens associated with medical expenses. As the NHSO continues to refine its processes and expand its services, Thailand moves closer to achieving a more inclusive and effective universal healthcare system.