In the dynamic world of business, few leaders possess the vision, resilience, and innovation of Supaluck Umpujh. As the Chairwoman of The Mall Group, she has transformed Thailand’s retail landscape, earning the title of Thailand’s “Queen of Retail.” Her pioneering approach to redefining the shopping experience has positioned The Mall Group as a leader in lifestyle and retail destinations.
Shaping the Future of Retail
Supaluck’s journey began with the family-owned Mall Group, founded by her father in the 1980s. Since taking the helm, she has reimagined the company’s role from a traditional mall operator to a creator of immersive lifestyle experiences. Under her leadership, The Mall Group has developed some of Thailand’s most iconic shopping centres, including The Emporium, EmQuartier, and Siam Paragon, establishing Thailand as a premier shopping and tourism hub.
Bringing Global Luxury to Thailand
An innovator at heart, Supaluck played a pivotal role in introducing international luxury brands to Thailand. Despite initial resistance, she successfully formed partnerships with global giants such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior, elevating Thailand’s retail standards. Her vision extends beyond commerce she crafts retail spaces that celebrate local culture while meeting world-class expectations.
Creating Destination Retail
Recognising the evolving nature of consumer behaviour, Supaluck pioneered the “destination retail” concept, transforming shopping centres into vibrant spaces where retail, dining, and entertainment converge. Developments such as EmQuartier and Emsphere exemplify this approach, offering consumers a dynamic and engaging experience beyond traditional shopping.
Her work has not only redefined retail but also driven economic growth, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and enhancing Thailand’s position as a global shopping destination. She champions Thai entrepreneurs by integrating local designers and artisans into her malls, fostering an ecosystem where Thai craftsmanship thrives.
Commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact
Supaluck believes that successful businesses have a responsibility to give back. Under her leadership, The Mall Group actively supports environmental and social initiatives, with a focus on sustainability. The Plastic-Free Campaign is one of many efforts aimed at reducing plastic waste through the use of reusable materials and eco-friendly practices across retail spaces.
Embracing Digital Transformation
Even in the face of global challenges, Supaluck remains ahead of the curve. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional retail, she swiftly embraced digital transformation, integrating online and hybrid shopping experiences to meet changing consumer demands. This agility allowed The Mall Group to maintain its strong market position and continue providing exceptional customer experiences.
A Trailblazer for Women in Leadership
As the ACES Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, Supaluck’s achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, across Asia. In an industry historically dominated by men, she has led with confidence, proving that vision and tenacity can drive meaningful change.
She once said, “If you believe in something, you must see it through to the end.” This philosophy defines her career, marked by bold decisions, groundbreaking innovations, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
Through her leadership, Supaluck Umpujh continues to elevate Thailand’s retail industry while paving the way for future generations of women leaders. Her legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the perfect balance between local authenticity and global excellence.
