Thailand is not just a manufacturing hub but a world-class innovation hub for air conditioning units.

Technology development and innovation are as vital as good production to make your product stand out in the world market.

Based on export value, Thailand’s leading electrical appliances were air conditioners and refrigerators. In 2014, exports of the former accounted for nearly 17% of total electrical appliance exports, and the latter 6%, according to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI).

“To build a strong business, we need to have our own technology, manufacturing and branding,” says Thunyawat Chittipalungsri, Assistant Managing Director of Saijo Denki, one of the leading Thai air conditioner manufacturers. “We try to communicate to the world that Thailand could be an innovation hub.”

Saijo Denki was founded in 1987. From its start as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), the company has turned itself into a leading air-conditioner brand. “We position ourselves as an innovative and professional business,” says Chittipalungsri. “We were also the first Thai brand to export air conditioners to Japan.”

The company has been praised in Japan’s Nikkei for its innovative app that can connect smart phones to air conditioners. The Intelligent Inverter links the air conditioner with a customer’s smart phone under the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT). It can set the temperature to an energy saving mode, diagnose any broken part, estimate electricity bills and even warn when the unit should be cleaned.

“They [customers] appreciate the innovative and unique functions. Saijo Denki was the first company to develop such a system. It meets customer’s needs. Sales of inverter models have grown by more than 300% this year,” says Chittipalungsri. “Our Japanese partner told us that we have continuously developed our technology till we have our own know-how. How we work is like the Japanese norm. They value how we work.”

The company also focuses on energy-saving innovations. “Saijo Denki is the top brand air conditioner according to Singapore’s green economy measure,” adds Chittipalungsri.

All this innovation not only contributes to Saijo Denki’s success in the marketplace, but also improves the image of Thailand as a manufacturing nation.

“International customers in particular those from ASEAN, India and the Middle East, feel more confident with Made in Thailand,” says Chittipalungsri. “In these countries, it means a premium product.”

For more information, please visit www.saijo-denki.co.th

Words by Natthinee Ratanaprasidhi