The Bangkok Post CEO of the Year 2026

Glitters like gold

In a business shaped by volatile gold prices and changing consumer preferences, sustainable growth requires more than an established brand and a strong product offering. For Aniwat Srirungthum, chief executive officer of Aurora Design Plc (AURA), it means rethinking the traditional gold shop and building a modern retail business with multiple sources of growth.

His efforts have helped transform Aurora from a conventional gold retailer into a diversified business spanning gold and jewellery retail, gift products and gold financing. In recognition of his leadership and ability to drive business expansion, Bangkok Post has named Mr Aniwat the recipient of its CEO of the Year award in the Enterprise Growth Excellence category.

Aurora’s growth momentum is reflected in its financial performance. Revenue reached 13.57 billion baht in the second quarter of 2026, up 57.62% year on year. Revenue for the 12 months to June 30, 2026, totalled 50.67 billion baht, representing annual growth of 47.05%.

At the heart of Aurora’s growth strategy is the application of modern retail principles to Thailand’s traditional gold trade. Rather than relying solely on established shopping districts and conventional storefronts, the company has expanded its presence in shopping malls, hypermarkets and community locations, making its products more accessible to a broader customer base. A consistent retail experience across its network has also helped strengthen the brand’s position in a competitive market.

Product diversification has been equally important. Alongside gold jewellery and diamond products, Aurora has developed gift offerings aimed at customers seeking gold as a meaningful present for special occasions. The strategy allows the company to reach consumers beyond traditional gold buyers, including younger generations who may view gold as both a personal accessory and a gift.

Aurora has also extended its business into financial services, creating additional opportunities beyond conventional retail sales. Its gold saving services provide customers with another way to accumulate gold, while Thong Ma Ngern Pai offers gold financing through a sale with a right of redemption arrangement. These businesses broaden the company’s customer reach and diversify its revenue streams, giving Aurora additional avenues for growth.

Technology and customer data support this expansion. Through its membership programme and digital services, Aurora can better understand consumer preferences and tailor its products and offerings to different customer segments. Data driven management also plays an important role in inventory planning and managing exposure to fluctuations in gold prices, two critical factors in a business where market movements can have a significant impact on operating performance.

The company’s listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in November 2022 marked another important step in its development. Access to the capital market has strengthened its capacity to pursue expansion, while the responsibilities of being a listed company reinforce the importance of transparency, sound governance and disciplined management.

Aurora’s approach reflects a broader ambition to build an integrated retail and financial services platform rather than remain confined to a single product category. By combining a wider branch network, differentiated brands, new services and technology driven operations, Mr Aniwat has positioned the company to pursue growth across multiple customer segments.

The CEO of the Year award for Enterprise Growth Excellence recognises this ability to turn a traditional business into a more diversified and scalable enterprise. Under Mr Aniwat’s leadership, Aurora’s growth strategy demonstrates how established industries can evolve by adapting to new consumer expectations while creating additional value for customers and shareholders alike.