Issue 33

Saran Durongdej, managing director of water technology company Mazuma, talks about his plans to expand its business across ASEAN, and the company’s green initiatives.

Can you tell us how Mazuma came about?
The company was founded by my father in 1993. He thought that urban living would mean more people would need water purifying systems in their homes. I stepped in to help manage Mazuma 15 years ago after I earned an MBA from the US. Now we manufacture water purifiers and filtration systems, water heaters and storage tanks.

Who are your main clients?
In our early days, we used to go on overseas tradeshows with the DITP, such as to Bangladesh. Now we have many corporate customers in Thailand like 7eleven, Fuji restaurant, Seefah restaurant and SCG. Most of our sales are still in Thailand. However, with the upcoming AEC and the elimination of export taxes we’re looking at a much bigger market, from only 60 million people in Thailand to over 600 million people in ASEAN.

Where are you planning to expand your business?
Now we have a large number of customers in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam. This year, we’re entering Indonesia, and we have a partnership called Mazuma Indonesia which imports our products. We may also consider establishing a production plant in Indonesia.

How is the water system industry in Thailand compared to other ASEAN countries?
We have a good sales service so I think there is still a lot of room to grow in our neighbouring countries. CLMV customers also prefer Thai products as they see that Thailand manufactures quality products at reasonable prices.

How has the market trend for water systems changed compared to 20 or 30 years ago?
People are now more health-conscious. They want quality drinking water and they view taking hot showers as a way to increase blood circulation and to relax. Water purifiers and heaters are much more necessary for today’s lifestyle than in the past.

Can you tell us about your green initiatives?
Mazuma is a green company, as we have designed our products to last for a long time using the value engineering systematic method. We also have a team of aftersales and service technicians to serve clients in different regions and in the CLMV. Our production plant treats and reuses 100 percent wastewater and carries out other energy-saving initiatives like using low-energy light bulbs.

What is your next project?
For 2016, we’re looking into manufacturing and installing solar roof tops and solar cells for home users. Though the initial costs may be high, it’s a great way to lower fossil fuel use.

For more information, visit: www.mazuma.co.th