another publication by IMAGE asia

Tachapon Tephabutr

What was behind your decision to set up your business in Phuket and why this particular business?
Sukko was established in 2005 with a vision to present Thai culture to the world, while also fulfilling the needs of Phuket's tourism industry.

Where are you from?
Being a true Phuket local is in part what inspired me to start Sukko − as a window here in our home to display the pride of Thai wisdom through professional spa management.

What’s special or different about Sukko? What are its unique points?
Sukko’s treatments are developed on the basis of ancient Thai medicinal knowledge, guided by the standards and ethics of certified traditional Thai doctors and herbalists.

With herbal recipes handed down through generations, we can ensure that products our guests experience during this period of cleansing and relaxation are free of petrochemicals, synthetic perfumes or colours, meeting each individual's needs.

Delivering these treatments are certified therapists, all of whom have undergone 800 hours of training from the Sukko Spa Academy, certified by the Thai Ministry of Education.

Our dedication to provide the ultimate experience has led Sukko to win numerous prestigious awards: Platinum Thai Spa World Class 2011 (Certified by Ministry of Public Health), Thailand Tourism Award 2009-2010 Award for Excellence in Health Tourism (Kinaree Awards), Hospitality Asia Platinum Award for Excellence ‘Thailand Spa of the Year 2008-2010’ and ‘The Best in South East Asia Signature Day Spa 2008-2010’.

What are the main challenges as they relate to your work?
Our challenge is to deliver the best service so that our guests are able to bring home the best experience of Thai hospitality and culture. This is achieved through focusing on our team’s human resources development, enabling Sukko to grow in all aspects and to ensure that we provide an experience of absolute happiness.

.…and what are the biggest difficulties you have to overcome?
Weathering the tourism industry crisises arising from natural disasters and political unrests.

Marketing is obviously an important part of every business – what is your approach to marketing Sukko to your target?
The best marketing is word of mouth arising from true quality. It is the most genuine and effective form of marketing.

What do you like most about what you do now?
When our guests take home with them happiness and good memories from the experience we provide.

What do you (and the business) hope or expect to achieve within the next 3-5 years?
To put spa experience on the list of must dos on every visit to Phuket and to propel Phuket’s spa experience onto the map of the world’s spa destinations.

What do you see as your biggest successes to date?
The great feedback from our customers and the many prestigious awards that we have received.

Is Sukko involved in any CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) programmes?
If so, please outline briefly. We believe that as a business operating in Phuket, it is crucial that we live as a part of the community and positively contribute to the development of our home. Since our conception, Sukko has been continuously involved with numerous yearly CSR activities such as blood donation and mangrove tree planting outings, as well as numerous donations to causes with our staff and friends of Sukko. Most recently we have been working with the Red Cross and Phuket municipal prison to provide a course on foot massage to equip inmates with occupational skills.

How would you describe your leadership style?
The building of the team is the most important factor. A team with great members, each with their own proficiency is the key. My role is only that of a conductor bringing together a beautiful song.

What is your over-riding ambition at this stage in your life?
To facilitate the growth of Thai spa industry on a world-wide stage.

For further information about Sukko Cultural Spa
5/10 Moo 3, Chaofa-West Rd., Muang, Phuket
www.sukkospa.com