Retail giants upbeat on spending

Consumer spending power is expected to gradually recover in the second half this year, helped by mass distribution of Covid-19 vaccines, the reopening of the country to foreign tourists, and the government’s stimulus measures, according to giant retail players.

Sompong Rungnirattisai, chief executive of Ek-Chai Distribution System Co, the operator of Lotus hypermarket chain, said the company expects to see better consumer shopping sentiment from June.

“Though spending per bill has yet to increase, there have been some positive signs at Lotus stores,” said Mr Sompong.

Earlier in the year consumers spent more money on food, but now there is rising sales momentum for electrical appliances and…