Central Retail Joins Krungsri for B2bn Green Loan

Central Retail Joins Krungsri for B2bn Green Loan

Strategic Partnership for a Greener Future

Central Retail Corporation Plc (CRC) has taken a significant step towards sustainability by partnering with Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri) to secure a 2-billion-baht green loan. This initiative is designed to amplify CRC's environmental impact and reinforce its position as a fully green retail and wholesale organization.

This collaboration comes on the heels of CRC's successful issuance of its first green bond in the Thai retail-wholesale sector in October, valued at 1 billion baht. The bond received an overwhelming response from institutional investors, highlighting the growing interest in sustainable finance.

Panet Mahankanurak, the chief financial officer of CRC, emphasized the company's commitment to achieving its net-zero goal by 2050. He stated that CRC is actively working to be part of the solution to climate change. "The company has continuously strengthened its green finance initiatives to drive positive environmental impact and enhance long-term operational efficiency," he said.

Expanding Green Initiatives

The funds obtained from the green loan will be used to expand clean energy and carbon reduction projects. Key areas of focus include:

  • Increasing solar panel installations across CRC's operations.
  • Scaling up the use of electric trucks and motorcycles in distribution centers for both short- and long-haul deliveries.
  • Implementing energy-efficient refrigeration systems and smart solar streetlights.

These initiatives are expected to reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 324,552 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, reinforcing CRC's commitment to sustainable growth.

Prakob Phiencharoen, head of the corporate and investment banking group at Krungsri, highlighted the importance of the retail sector in advancing Thailand towards a low-carbon economy. He noted that the sector influences both supply chains and consumer behavior. "CRC's tangible initiatives in clean energy and energy efficiency, which align with Krungsri's vision, demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering business growth while respecting environmental and societal values," he said.

Supporting Sustainable Business Practices

Mr. Prakob further emphasized Krungsri's dedication to supporting business customers across all sectors in accessing financing as they work together to drive the transition towards a responsible and sustainable business model. This partnership underscores the mutual goals of CRC and Krungsri in promoting environmental stewardship and economic development.

A Model for Industry Leadership

CRC's efforts serve as a model for other businesses looking to integrate sustainability into their operations. By leveraging green finance, the company is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also setting a benchmark for others in the industry. The success of CRC's green bond and the subsequent green loan highlight the potential for similar initiatives to gain traction in the broader market.

As CRC continues to invest in renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, it is positioning itself as a leader in the transition to a more sustainable future. This strategic approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances the company's long-term operational efficiency and resilience.

Conclusion

The partnership between CRC and Krungsri represents a significant milestone in the journey towards a greener economy. By combining financial resources with a shared vision for sustainability, both organizations are contributing to a more environmentally responsible business landscape. As CRC continues to implement its green initiatives, it sets a precedent for other companies to follow, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.

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