Striving to shape a more sustainable future

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Thai Beverage, has not only expanded the company into one of the largest beverage conglomerates in Southeast Asia but has also been a champion of sustainable business practices.

His leadership goes beyond profit, emphasising the critical role businesses play in promoting environmental and social responsibility.

Under Mr Thapana’s stewardship, ThaiBev has embraced the philosophy of the Sufficiency Economy, as advocated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, King Rama IX.

By applying this approach, Mr Thapana has demonstrated that sustainability is not a hindrance to growth but a powerful driver of long-term stability and resilience.

This philosophy, rooted in moderation, responsible consumption, and environmental care, has become a guiding principle for ThaiBev, serving as a case study on how sustainability can be integrated into business operations.

Beyond his company, Mr Thapana has worked with the Chaipattana Foundation to raise awareness about this philosophy, promoting it as a societal foundation for families and businesses alike.

For the past five years, Mr Thapana has spearheaded Sustainable Expo (SX), Asean’s largest sustainability-focused event. The expo brings together government, private sectors, and civil society to foster collaboration on critical sustainability issues, including carbon emission reduction, environmental protection, and the role of technology in achieving these goals.

SX 2024 marked its most successful year, extending the event from seven to ten days, with over 640,000 participants both online and offline, surpassing the initial target of 500,000. Of these attendees, more than 227,000 were young people aged 18-35, highlighting the growing interest in sustainability among the next generation.

The expo featured insights from over 700 speakers representing 270 organisations, all aiming to find practical solutions to global sustainability challenges.

Remarkably, the event generated over 40 million baht in revenue through community product sales and booth exhibitions. All proceeds were allocated to social charities and local communities and ThaiBev did not charge exhibitors, demonstrating the company's strong commitment to giving back and promoting social good.

"The SX initiative clearly signals that all sectors are ready to learn and take action toward sustainability. The overwhelming participation from youths reflects their growing awareness of how today’s actions will shape the future of our planet and their role in it," Mr Thapana noted, reflecting on the success of the event.

"Collaboration are crucial for the dimensions of sustainability. We must prioritize the five P’s — planet, people, prosperity, partnership and peace, to truly drive sustainable progress," he said.

Mr Thapana credits much of his business acumen to his father, Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, the founder of ThaiBev. He learned the importance of "consistency and resilience" in business, especially in times of economic uncertainty.

"If you’re committed to something, you have to continually adjust and solve problems, no matter how small, without giving up," Mr Thapana shared.

Ethics are also a cornerstone of Mr Thapana’s approach to business. He firmly believes that businesses must grow in harmony with their partners, without exploiting consumers or suppliers.

"Unethical practices destroy sustainability," he says, underscoring that ethical conduct is key to long-term business success.

Mr Thapana's success lies in his ability to balance growth with sustainability. He emphasises three key elements — awareness, mindfulness, and adaptability.

First, businesses must stay aware of "disruptions" in the marketplace by understanding consumer behaviour and megatrends.

Second, mindfulness and thoughtful decision-making are essential for sustaining both growth and environmental responsibility.

Finally, adaptability is crucial to navigating the rapidly changing landscape of global technology and environmental challenges.

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to not only building a thriving business but also making a lasting, positive impact on society. For his remarkable contributions, the Bangkok Post proudly celebrates him as CEO of the Year in Sustainability Impact Leadership, recognising his visionary role in shaping a more sustainable future for both ThaiBev and society.