Krung Thai - AIS has launched Point Pay to assist merchants in overcoming the crisis, piloting in 15 provinces nationwide. Customers can now use accumulated points to pay instead of cash at participating stores.

Krung Thai Bank has partnered with AIS to support small retailers by increasing their sales opportunities amid the economic crisis. The Point Pay initiative aims to stimulate spending among AIS's 43.2 million customers, allowing them to use points to purchase goods instead of cash at participating stores starting today. Two points are equivalent to one baht, initially targeting the food and beverage sector with 45,000 participating stores in 15 provinces, with a goal of over 700,000 stores nationwide to boost domestic spending and support the growth of the grassroots economy.

Mr. Payong Srivanich, President of Krung Thai Bank, stated that as a state-owned commercial bank, Krung Thai is committed to leveraging technology and innovation to develop financial products and services that enhance the quality of life for all customers, addressing the needs of modern lifestyles and supporting the country's economic recovery, especially during the slowdown caused by COVID-19.

Recently, the bank collaborated with Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS) to launch the “Point Pay” program to assist small retailers nationwide in increasing their sales. AIS customers, numbering over 43.2 million, can now use their accumulated points as cash at participating stores. Currently, there are 1.5 million participating stores, with the initial phase focusing on food and beverage outlets. The program aims to include over 700,000 stores nationwide, helping to stimulate sales for small businesses in various communities and enabling them to survive and grow during the economic downturn.

“This collaboration combines Krung Thai's strong digital infrastructure and diverse service channels with AIS's robust mobile network, reaching customers nationwide. It is a crucial part of driving Thailand's economy and society towards sustainability,”

Mr. Somchai Lertsuthivong, CEO of AIS, revealed that AIS is committed to advancing digital services while contributing to societal recovery and revitalizing the economy affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for over a year, particularly for small community retailers. Therefore, we are determined to leverage our strengths, including our digital network and customer base of over 43.2 million, to connect and support small retailers that are vital to driving the grassroots economy while simultaneously reducing the cost burden on AIS customers.

“This collaboration with Krung Thai Bank is a significant partnership, combining the strengths of a telecommunications leader with a financial banking leader, both essential industries in the country. The launch of the 'Point Pay' program is akin to using AIS Points to help the nation by encouraging spending from AIS customers to support small merchants, allowing them to continue their businesses while alleviating costs for AIS customers through point discounts instead of cash.”

AIS customers can use AIS Points as cash discounts (2 points = 1 baht) and can choose to pay entirely with points without using cash. Currently, over 17 million customers are enrolled in the AIS Points program. Stores that have already registered for the e-wallet application will receive an update for the new “Point Pay” menu, and once confirmed, they can immediately accept payments through the “Point Pay” program. AIS and Krung Thai Bank have begun offering the first phase of services starting today.

For more details, visit krungthai.com/link/pointpay and www.ais.th/pointshelp