Metro Machinery Co Ltd Group, Thailand's sole authorised dealer of heavy machinery brand Caterpillar, is expanding its business through online channels, aiming to achieve 36 billion baht in total sales this year.
Veera Burapachaisri, vice-chairman and managing director, said Metro will continue to focus on developing digital marketing and e-commerce platforms this year to fit consumers' changing behaviour in the local machinery market.
"The spread of Covid-19 prompted the company to ready itself for all unanticipated situations," he said.
"To achieve this, Metro utilised advanced technology to improve its services."
Metro Machinery, which sells heavy equipment, spare parts and machine oils, increased sales channels by introducing its own digital platforms providing customers with equipment-related data such as service history and maintenance information.
"A wider range of product lines, parts and services have been developed to suit different customers' needs," said Mr Veera.
In 2022, the company posted total revenue of 30 billion baht, with 80% coming from customers in China, Laos and Cambodia.
The domestic market accounted for the remaining 20%.
"The annual sales turnover of Metro Machinery Group in 2022 was positive compared with 2021," he said.
"The company was able to generate growth exceeding expectations and increased market share."
This year the firm is striving to achieve sales of more than 36 billion baht, representing growth of 20% from 2022, thanks to the expansion of the government's investment in megaprojects, said Mr Veera.
Domestic sales are projected to expand 10% from 6 billion baht recorded last year, he said.
Thailand's construction industry is expected to grow 5% from 2022 to 1.48 trillion baht this year, with sales of heavy equipment, parts and after-sales service continuing to grow, said Mr Veera.
Aside from turning to digital technology, the company also aims to strengthen its network of 32 service and sales centres across the country.
"In 2023, we will step up our focus on corporate customers in each business segment to fulfil their needs," he said.
