News
Is Phuket’s restaurant competition destined for failure?

A stark reminder of the harsh realities that face Phuket’s food scene is the “for sale” sign that hangs outside the restaurant in Cherng Talay that was once known as “Fire & Smoke.” This is not a one-off occurrence. Restaurants all over the island are struggling, and many are closing permanently. In spite of Phuket’s popularity as a tourist destination, the industry is clearly in trouble, with over 600,000 closures in Thailand in the past three years.
There are numerous reasons for this. Food prices are going up so much that already-tight margins are being squeezed. The price of essential ingredients has skyrocketed due to the war in Ukraine and volatile global markets. Many Phuket establishments rely on imported goods like cheese, pasta, and wine, which are becoming prohibitively expensive. Produce from a local source isn’t immune from the cost of living crisis, erratic weather, and rising transportation costs, all of which have an effect on availability and price.
A severe labor shortage only serves to exacerbate the situation. New opportunities have emerged as a result of Thailand’s economic recovery, particularly in the freelance sector, drawing workers away from traditional hospitality positions. Although the new increase in the minimum wage is a good thing for workers’ rights, it adds another financial burden to restaurant owners who are already having trouble keeping their books in order. Many venues are forced to rely on inexperienced, frequently temporary workers from Myanmar and other countries, which has an effect on service quality and customer satisfaction. Finding and keeping experienced staff is a constant struggle.
The second is Phuket’s “Italianization.” Another pizzeria or trattoria appears on every street corner, offering the same stale pizza and pasta menu. Businesses are forced to compete on price rather than quality as a result of this oversaturation, which further reduces profit margins. Even though Italian cuisine unquestionably has a place, its lack of originality and diversity stifles culinary innovation and leaves diners craving something else.
Sadly, many new restaurant operators in Phuket are unprepared for the challenges. Inexperienced foreign investors frequently underestimate the business’s complexity because they are enticed by the island’s perceived glamour and the desire to run a laid-back beachside bistro. A recipe for failure includes inadequate planning, inadequate funding, and ignorance of local regulations.
Promotion and marketing are frequently neglected or poorly carried out. A strong online presence is essential in the digital age of today, but many restaurants rely solely on word-of-mouth or outdated marketing strategies. A restaurant’s invisibility in a crowded market can be caused by a poorly designed website, insufficient social media engagement, and inadequate targeted advertising.
Even established venues are experiencing difficulties. Revenue at high-end restaurants, such as those with Michelin stars, has decreased by as much as 40%. A precarious situation that cannot be sustained over the long term has many people dipping into their personal savings just to stay afloat. The issue has become even worse as a result of the decline in corporate bookings and large-scale events, denying restaurants an essential source of revenue.
So, what can be done? Restaurants must first adapt. Utilizing technology is essential for inventory management, cost control, targeted marketing, as well as online ordering and delivery services. Restaurant owners must know their customers’ preferences, preferences, and spending habits. Menus can be tailored, enticing promotions can be made, and sales can be increased using this data.
Second, originality and genuineness are essential. Phuket is a melting pot of cultures, but its restaurants rarely reflect this diversity. Beyond the ubiquitous Italian staples, there is a growing demand for authentic, regional Thai cuisine as well as international flavors. More likely to pique the interest of discerning diners are establishments that provide something original and engaging.
Thirdly, it’s important to work together. Although the restaurant business is frequently portrayed as competitive, unity has power. Everyone can benefit from sharing best practices, pooling resources for marketing initiatives, and even working together on events. Supporting businesses, providing training, and advocating for sector-supporting policies can all come from industry associations like the Thai Restaurant Association.
The restaurant industry in Phuket faces significant obstacles, so adapting is essential for survival and growth. There are excellent examples of restaurants that are doing well, but unfortunately, many of them will soon appear in “Fire & Smoke.”
News
WOW Festival 2025: A Celebration of Sustainable Urban Living at Benjakiti Park

Experience the WOW Festival 2025 from January 11 to 19
The WOW Festival 2025: Wonder of Well-Living City is set to take place at Benjakiti Park from January 11 to 19, offering a vibrant blend of creativity, technology, and community engagement. Organized by the Siam Association of Architects under Royal Patronage, this festival aims to inspire and empower citizens to contribute towards a more sustainable and equitable future for Bangkok.
Theme: “Healthy City, Empowers People”
This year’s theme, “Healthy City, Empowers People,” will explore innovative approaches to urban living through a series of engaging events and activities designed to foster community interaction and awareness around sustainability.
Festival Highlights
Avatar Map: A Digital Experience
One of the standout features of the festival is the Avatar Map, a cutting-edge digital platform that enhances visitor experience by providing personalized recommendations and guiding attendees through the festival’s various attractions.
National Leaders’ Summit
The festival will host a National Leaders’ Summit, bringing together urban leaders, innovators, and industry experts to discuss critical issues related to sustainable urban development. Key topics will include low-carbon cities, design trends, and financial education.
WOW Happy Ground
The WOW Happy Ground zone will feature interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and relaxing spaces for visitors to unwind while engaging with the festival’s core themes. This area is designed to promote creativity and collaboration among attendees.
WOW Circular Market
Visitors can explore the WOW Circular Market, showcasing a curated selection of handcrafted goods made from recycled materials. This market highlights the importance of sustainable consumption and supports local artisans.
WOW Co-Creation Workshops
Participants can join WOW Co-Creation workshops, where they can share ideas and collaborate on developing more livable urban spaces. These workshops aim to foster community involvement in urban planning.
Special Events for Children’s Day
In celebration of Children’s Day, the festival will feature a dedicated “WOW Playground” zone filled with engaging activities for children. This includes “Free Play” areas, “Structure Play” zones, and “Role Play” activities that encourage creativity and foster an understanding of sustainable urban living.
Vision for a Liveable City
According to the Siam Association of Architects, “A liveable city is more than just modern buildings. It’s about creating a safe, comfortable, and high-quality living environment for all.” The WOW Festival 2025 provides an opportunity for the public to engage with important issues and contribute to shaping the future of Bangkok.
Join Us at WOW Festival 2025
The WOW Festival 2025 promises to be an exciting event that showcases innovative urban living in Bangkok. With a variety of activities designed for all ages, it’s an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors alike to engage with sustainability initiatives. For more information about the festival, please visit the Facebook page “WOW Wonder City Livable.”
News
Health Warning: Properly Cook Pork to Prevent Serious Infections

Doctor Urges Safe Cooking Practices for Pork Consumption
Rise in Cases Linked to Undercooked Pork
Dr. Taweechai Visanuyothin, director of the Department of Disease Control’s Regional Office 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima, stated that a number of individuals contracted the disease after consuming raw or undercooked pork. From January 1, 2024, to January 2, 2025, there were 197 recorded cases of hearing loss fever, resulting in 22 deaths across the provinces monitored by Regional Office 9. Nakhon Ratchasima reported the highest number of cases (120) and deaths (10), followed by Chaiyaphum (37 cases and 7 deaths) and Surin (24 cases and 3 deaths).
Safe Cooking Temperatures for Pork
To ensure pork is safe for consumption, Dr. Taweechai emphasized that it must be cooked at a temperature of 70 degrees Celsius or higher for at least 10 minutes. He added that simply squeezing lime juice over pork does not suffice as a cooking method.
Risks for Food Preparers
Dr. Taweechai also cautioned those who prepare food that they are at risk of contracting the disease through open wounds. He recommended wearing gloves when handling raw meat to minimize exposure. Symptoms of Streptococcus suis infection include fever, fatigue, nausea, irregular heartbeat, poor vision, low blood pressure, and hearing loss.
Prioritize Food Safety
The rise in Streptococcus suis cases highlights the importance of proper food safety practices, particularly when handling and cooking pork. By adhering to safe cooking temperatures and maintaining hygiene in food preparation, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of infection and protect their health. If any symptoms arise after consuming pork, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
News
Bangkok Bans Street Vending at Key Locations to Enhance Public Space

Street Vending Canceled in Pathumwan District
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has officially canceled street vending at two significant locations in the Pathumwan district to maintain safe, clean, and accessible pavements. This decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to reorganize public spaces and improve the overall urban environment.
Locations Affected by the Ban
The two locations impacted by this ban include Ton Son on Ploenchit Road, which previously hosted 17 vendors, and the area in front of the Siam Scape building, where nine vendors operated. These changes took effect on January 1, 2025, as part of the BMA’s initiative to enhance pedestrian safety and urban cleanliness.
Future Plans for Erawan Shrine Area
In addition to these changes, the BMA plans to engage in discussions with three flower vendors located near the Erawan Shrine at the Ratchaprasong intersection. The goal is to reorganize this public space further and minimize traffic disruptions in the area, ensuring a smoother flow for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Current Vendor Regulations in Pathumwan
Despite these cancellations, there are currently 13 areas within Pathumwan district where a total of 222 vendors are permitted to operate. Previously, the district office established two hawker centers capable of accommodating 122 vendors at Lumpini Park Gate 5 and at the Ratchadamri intersection.
Inspections and Compliance
On Monday, Deputy Bangkok Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam, along with BMA’s deputy permanent secretary Supakrit Boonkhan, inspected the affected sites and visited vending zones in the Bang Rak district to ensure compliance with regulations. This proactive approach aims to uphold public orderliness and hygiene standards among authorized vendors.
Previous Actions Against Street Vending
In October 2024, the BMA had already taken steps to cancel street vending along a stretch of Silom Road, moving vendors from Silom Soi 12 to Silom Soi 10. In Bang Rak district alone, there are currently 32 areas where 618 street vendors are allowed to operate.
Commitment to Public Safety
Mr. Jakkapan emphasized the importance of strictly enforcing bans on vending in prohibited areas while ensuring that vendors in authorized zones adhere to established standards. This initiative reflects Bangkok’s commitment to balancing street vendor activities with public safety and urban aesthetics.
Enhancing Bangkok’s Urban Environment
The recent cancellation of street vending at key locations in Bangkok underscores the city’s ongoing efforts to improve public spaces while ensuring safety for pedestrians. As discussions continue regarding vendor operations near significant landmarks like the Erawan Shrine, it is clear that maintaining an organized and clean urban environment remains a top priority for city officials.
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