05 — Shop · Business guide
Grocery Store
Opening a grocery shop in Thailand
Steady local demand for daily essentials offers stable income and long-term potential.
- Steps to launch
- 09
- Licences & permits
- 03
Your roadmap
From idea to opening day
The path we follow with you for a grocery store in Thailand.
- 01
Choose a business structure
A Thai Limited Company or a franchise are recommended for foreigners.
- 02
Register the business
Register with the Department of Business Development.
- 03
Lease or buy a location
A commercially zoned property with high foot traffic.
- 04
Apply for licences
Shop, food and alcohol licences.
- 05
Hire staff
Four Thai employees per foreigner; foreign managers need a Non-B visa and a work permit.
- 06
Stock & set up
Source from local wholesalers and install a POS system.
- 07
Marketing
Facebook, Google Maps and LINE OA.
- 08
Launch
A soft opening or grand launch.
- 09
Visa
Foreign owners and managers need a Non-B visa and a work permit.
What you need
Licences & setup package
Shop licence
Local District Office
Food licence
Local authority
Alcohol licence
Local authority
Regulations can change. We confirm the requirements for your situation.