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TSCC had the great opportunity to interview Natalia Folbrycht, the Country Manager for Fitness24seven Thailand. Below you can read the full interview about her interesting success story!  < Back TSCC Café Succé – The Success Story of Natalia Folbrycht 11 Mar 2019 TSCC Café Succé – The Success Story of Natalia Folbrycht TSCC had the great opportunity to interview Natalia Folbrycht, the Country Manager for Fitness24seven Thailand. Below you can read the full interview about her interesting success story! Natalia, you have experience from working in many types of industries, from restaurant, real estate, airline to manufacturing. And many, many more. Now, you’re currently working in the fitness industry. How do you adapt from moving from one industry to another? ‘I think it’s not about the industry where you work, it’s the task you have. Most of the industries I worked with have been startups or expansions or turnarounds,’ says Natalia. ‘I’ve been asked many times “what is your speciality”. I don’t think I have an industry, even though I love fitness myself, but it’s about the task and the things that need to get done in the project that you get.’ You played football for like 15 years. How important is it for you to exercise? ‘Well, exercising is part of my life. To have the pace I have, you need to exercise. I cannot do it without it. Soccer is the sport I like to watch live or on TV. But working out myself, it can be cardio or strength training or any different kind just to get yourself moving.’ Football as a team sport, do you think that playing football has helped you in your career? ‘Yes. I usually say that everything is applicable to a company because you set the goals, you work as a team, and have all these things you want to achieve. To win the league or win a game. I think that’s the base where you get your discipline, when you play in a team, and also the team´s understanding in setting goals.’ Let’s move on to the next question. What has been the greatest learning for you when it comes to working in different countries and industries that have helped you with your career? ‘I think it is understanding the culture. Sometimes I don’t understand, but the understanding that you don’t understand and need to adapt to different cultures, that’s a great learning.’ Natalia continues stressing the international experience from work in different companies and in different countries. ‘It’s very beneficial in terms of building your knowledge bank and putting it together. I would say the cultures and the countries experience. I can really understand why Asian people act in some way, even if I don’t understand.’ Are you more flexible to understanding and taking in? ‘Well, I think I am super flexible. The thing is that sometimes I don’t understand them, but I have the knowledge that I don’t understand, but this is the way it is. I cannot change it.’ Natalia was hired in Sweden and sent to kick off Fitness24Seven in Thailand. She is now one and a half years into that venture, going back and forth. If we look at your career, you have already succeeded in a lot of things. What is the best decision, or decisions, you have made in your career and what does the word success mean to you? ‘Success. That’s a word that many people will relate maybe to money or career. For me, success is to work with something that you enjoy. When you wake up every day and want to go to work, and you don’t want to go home from work, that’s success for me, because then I’m passionate about what I’m doing, and I also have the passion for the things that I’m doing. I think the passion I have is to build companies or to turn around companies, so I think success is not necessarily connected to money in my case. It’s more about the experience I get in the different countries. I am grateful for the chance to work abroad. Not everybody can do that, and I am honoured to get the missions abroad because it is success for myself.’ ‘My work is very hard, but I don’t feel my work is work. I really feel it’s just fun. For me, it’s very challenging, but the day I don’t like it or I don’t feel it’s fun, I will not work at that position anymore. The day I don’t develop, I will move on because I need that development all the time. That’s maybe why I move around. Maybe two years is usually what I have in each company or country because I need to develop. I am not a maintainer.’ What tips do you have to someone who wants to pursue a career in the fitness industry? What experience and skills do you think it is good to have? ‘I wouldn’t say only fitness industry, because again, I’m going back to… relate to what a mission is. What is your mission? I think curiosity is super important because if you’re not curious, you will not find out things. There is not a silver plate served for you with all the knowledge that you to know to do something. You need to find out for yourself, so curiosity would be one word.’ ‘Second word would be courage. It can be scary to move abroad. New culture, new language, new food. Most of us people are very comfortable, don’t want to move on from their comfort zone. So move out of your comfort zone, and have the courage to do that.’ ‘The third thing, if you don’t have the passion for what you’re doing, you will not succeed. You need to have the passion, and you need to feel it is fun. So I think to find something that you enjoy in terms of passion.’ Last question. Recently, you opened your third branch in Sathorn Thani. Will you continue to grow here in Thailand, and do you have any other news you would like to share with the public? ‘We are here to take over, so we are growing. It’s going a bit slower than planned because of different circumstances, but for sure we are here to take over. We will open a lot of gyms soon. We have about three more locations planned in pipeline right now.’ Interview by Albert Persson Edit by Christer Nilsson Previous Next

< Back Risks and Rewards: Outcomes of Labour Migration in South-East Asia by ILO, IOM and Rapid Asia SweCham member, Rapid Asia, who specialises in social research and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) consulting conducted an interesting research and published report. In 2017, Rapid Asia conducted a study on behalf of ILO and IOM to obtain a better understanding of the factors that shape migration outcomes in Southeast Asia. The study interviewed over 1800 returnee migrant workers from Cambodia, Viet Nam, Lao PDR and Myanmar who had been employed in Thailand or Malaysia. The findings are published in the report Risks and rewards: Outcomes of labour migration in South-East Asia released for International Migrants Day on 18 December 2017. A Migration Outcomes Index (MOI) was developed for this study to measure changes in the lives of migrant workers from before to after their migration. The Index broadens the way migration outcomes are measured by incorporating both social and economic elements. It represents a break not only from the narrow focus on counting remittances but also from the human trafficking paradigm that has been very dominant in SE Asia. Previous Next

< Back The Three by TPV: New Arrivals for this Summer! 22 Apr 2025 Step into Summer with The Three by TPV's New Collection The days are longer, the sun is brighter, and the air is filled with the promise of adventure. It's finally summer, and here at The Three by TPV, our start-up member is thrilled to unveil our latest collection, designed to be your perfect companion for all your warm-weather moments. This season, we've embraced the essence of summer living: light fabrics, breathable designs, and a palette inspired by the vibrant hues of the season. From flowing dresses that catch the gentle breeze to comfortable separates perfect for mixing and matching, each piece in our new collection is crafted with both style and comfort in mind. Slide below to discover the new collection! Previous Next

< Back International Women's Day 2025, 5 March 2025 On Wednesday 5 March 2025, SweCham, together with the Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce (FTCC) and La French Tech Bangkok (LFTBKK) had the pleasure of celebrating International Women's Day #IWD2025 with an incredible morning breakfast event at iBis Style Bangkok Silom. A big thank you to our main sponsor, Samitivej Hospital , for an amazing support on women’s voices and bodies making this event possible. Our shared mission to #AccelerateAction and honor the power of women resonated with all participants, who enjoyed dynamic networking over a delightful breakfast. We were truly honored to receive opening remarks from the esteemed Ambassadors, H.E. Mrs. Anna Hammargren (Swedish Ambassador to Thailand) and H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf (French Ambassador to Thailand). The event featured three inspiring sessions and moderated by Laetitia Lim , CEO of Quividi and Board Member of LFTBKK: Fireside Chat: “Tech Her Way” – Oranuch (mimee) L. , CEO & Founder of Techsauce , shared insights for women entrepreneurs in the tech industry. Panel Discussion: “Women in Science and Industry” – Featuring powerhouse leaders like Pauline Blum (Managing Director, Industrial site of Michelin ), Ratanasiri (Taan) Tilokskulchai (Managing Director of Tetra Pak ), and Uracha Ruktanonchai (Executive Director of National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC) - National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) , who discussed overcoming barriers and leading with impact. Fireside Chat: “The Role of Men in Accelerating Gender Equality” – A thought-provoking conversation with Patrick Girod (CEO of L’OREAL Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia) and Clément de Foucauld (Key Account Manager of Thales ) about the critical role men play in fostering gender equality. Additionally, we sincerely appreciate our giveaway sponsors, FOREO and L'Oréal , for their generous and practical cosmetic gifts, which brought an extra touch of care and elegance to the event! We are incredibly proud to be part of this movement and will continue to support the women shaping change across industries! Click here for the full photo book! Explore SweCham social media platforms! Previous Next

< Back APAC SwedChams and NordChams Webinar: US Tariffs and Implications on Global Supply Chain, 30 April 2025 Yesterday, our members joined in navigating the complex world of US tariffs and their global impact! We recently hosted Johan Annell from ARC Group for an insightful webinar exploring the ripple effects across industries and continents, particularly in Asia. Key questions around supply chains, regional winners and losers, Nordic business implications, adaptation strategies, and potential long-term decoupling were discussed. A big thank you to our expert speaker, Johan Annell, as well as Swedish Chamber of Commerce Taipei and other APAC SwedChams and NordChams for co-organising this crucial event. We also extend our gratitude to the more than 50 participants from across the region for their active engagement. This webinar is open to SweCham members only. If you would like to become a member, please send a query to contact@swecham.com , and we will send you more information about member benefits! Previous Next

SweCham extends a warm welcome to our newest start-up corporate member- Candela, the Hydrofoiling electric boats and ferries.  < Back A Warm Welcome to SweCham New Start-Up Corporate Member, Candela! 20 Feb 2025 SweCham extends a warm welcome to our newest start-up corporate member- Candela, the Hydrofoiling electric boats and ferries. Candela was founded in 2014 by Gustav Hasselskog to revolutionize marine transportation with highperformance electric boats. Bringing together global experts in hydrodynamics, control theory, and engineering, Candela developed groundbreaking hydrofoil technology that enables long-range, high-speed travel with zero emissions. In 2019, we began serial production of the world’s first electric hydrofoil boat, setting new industry standards. Expanding to Asia-Pacific in 2024 with a regional office in Bangkok, we continue our mission to outcompete fossil-fuel boats by combining sustainability, efficiency, and cuttingedge innovation to transform waterborne mobility for a cleaner future. A very warm welcome to Candela representative, Khun Björn Antonsson (Regional CEO, Asia Pacific) and Khun Patrawee Rakkaew (APAC Business Development Manager). We're thrilled to welcome the team to our community tonight at the 2nd edition of 2025 SweCham Business Connect tonight! To learn more, please visit their platforms below: https://candela.com/ Interested in joining the Thai-Swedish business community and connecting to the SweCham network? Please contact us at director@swecham.com Previous Next

The company brings the Scandinavian “lösgodis” culture to Thailand through a vibrant kiosk in IconSiam. < Back A Warm Welcoming to Swedish Beloved Confectionery, Softa 30 Aug 2025 Softa was founded by Swedish entrepreneurs Gustaf Ryhed and Kenny Rundh. The company brings the Scandinavian “lösgodis” culture to Thailand through a vibrant kiosk in IconSiam. With a focus on quality, fun, and flavor. Softa offers an authentic taste of Sweden in the heart of Bangkok. Softa is a Swedish-style pick & mix candy kiosk located at IconSiam Bangkok. They offer a wide variety of premium quality imported sweets, focusing on a nostalgic experience and joyful indulgence. A very warm welcome to the representative of Softa representatives, Khun Gustaf Ryhed and Khun Kenny Rundh (CO-founders). SweCham is thrilled to welcome Softa to the Thai-Swedish community. With Khun Gustaf and Kenny, Softa is not just bringing delicious Swedish confections to Thailand; they are introducing the unique and joyful philosophy of Swedish culture. We're excited for them to share a true taste of Sweden right here in the heart of Bangkok. Getting to know more about Softa, please click here: https://www.softa-sweets.com/ Interested in joining the Thai-Swedish business community and connecting to the SweCham network? Please contact us at director@swecham.com Previous Next

Pacific 2000 International Recruitment Corporate member Member Profile Pacific 2000 is an Executive Recruitment/Headhunting company assisting international and regional companies and institutions in the search and selection of high calibre personnel in Thailand and other Southeast Asian Countries. With 25 years' experience in the region, we are counting over 100 companies/institutions as our Clients and Business Partners. Visit the official website here Representatives Representative (1): Phuchisa Termdejthanakul Position: Managing Director Contacts are available for members only. Please kindly contact contact@swecham.com should you would be interested on joining our member community! Back to Member Directory

< Back Thailand Monthly Economic Monitor for April 2025 Thailand's economic activity showed mixed signals in February. Steady consumption and strong exports were offset by a sharp contraction in private investment due to rising uncertainty. World Bank Thailand - Thailand's economic activity showed mixed signals in February . Steady consumption and strong exports were offset by a sharp contraction in private investment due to rising uncertainty. Goods exports remained a key driver, bolstered by robust shipments to the US and China, in part due to frontloading amid rising global trade uncertainties. However, mounting risks from global trade uncertainty are a concern. The tourism recovery softened, influenced by seasonal factors and a decline in Chinese arrivals. Additionally, the recent earthquake may negatively impact future tourist numbers. Inflation continued to decline in March, prompting further monetary easing. Financial markets weakened as risk-off sentiment and policy uncertainty eroded investor confidence, resulting in Thai baht depreciation despite a strong current account surplus. Download the full report here! Explore Previous editions of Thailand Monthly Economic Monitor Previous Next

Sweden Alumni Network Thailand (SANT), in collaboration with Team Sweden, including the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok, SweCham, and the Swedish Institute (SI), organised the Roundtable Discussion on 'Plastic Waste: Management and Social Awareness' at Tetra Pak Thailand. < Back Team Sweden to Promote Environmental Awareness for a Sustainable Tomorrow 22 Sept 2023 On Wednesday, 20 September, Sweden Alumni Network Thailand (SANT), in collaboration with Team Sweden, including the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok, SweCham, and the Swedish Institute (SI), organised the Roundtable Discussion on 'Plastic Waste: Management and Social Awareness' at Tetra Pak Thailand. With the aim to raise environmental awareness among participants, representatives from leading organisations and influential persons shared insights into various sustainable projects and future actions from their organisations. On this occasion, SweCham Executive Director, Dr Pojanath Bhatanacharoen, along with the team, joined the event to gain new insights from inspirational speakers into how we could make our community a better place to live. In connection with the Plastic Free Week, Ms Chaidarun Tippawan, Regional Director for Asia – University Studies Aboard Consortium (USAD), Chairperson of SANT, shared a valuable experience from the plogging activity organised on 16 - 17 September in different provinces in Thailand. Additionally, volunteers' collective effort also leaves a lasting positive impact on Chiang Mai because the litter will be used and transformed into road asphalt for Chiang Mai University. 🏃🏻♂️🗑️ Moreover, the round-table played a significant role in heightening awareness regarding critical environmental concerns. This was achieved through engaging discussions and the valuable perspectives shared by guest speakers, including Ms AnnaMaria Oltorp, Head of the Development Cooperation Section, Regional Asia and the Pacific of the Swedish Embassy in Bangkok, Mr Pornphrom Vikitsreth, Bangkok Governor Counsellor, Mr Patinya Silsupadol, Head of Sustainability of Tetra Pak, Mr Chanin Srisuma, Co-founder and Owner of Refill Station, and Mr Chanut Wudhiwigaigarn, Creative Manager of KongGreenGreen. In short, even though each organisation has different strategies for reducing plastic waste, what is important is that all public, private, and government sectors including us must work together in order to create a waste-free community. Remember, small steps can lead to significant impacts. Together, let's reduce plastic waste to create a better living environment on our planet! 🌱 SweCham would like to thank SANT and all supporters for organising this informative round-table discussion for everyone. Special thanks to Tetra Pak Thailand and Khun Ratanasiri Tilokskulchai, MD, for your warm hospitality and for offering us a space to enjoy the discussion and Fika! We look forward to joining other great events organised by SANT and Team Sweden again in the near future. To explore other news and activities from our chamber, please visit www.swecham.com . Previous Next

On Wednesday 13 November 2024, SweCham joined the collaboration between Opticept and FiTU (Food Innopolis Thammasat University). We are proud of our member, Saab, who is a sponsor of Opticept Technology and Knowledge Center, which extends beyond defense and security to encompass the vital agricultural sector. < Back SweCham Member Saab Supports Opticept Agritech Advancements, contributing to the Collaboration between Opticept and FiTU! 13 Nov 2024 On Wednesday 13 November 2024, SweCham joined the collaboration between Opticept and FiTU (Food Innopolis Thammasat University). We are proud of our member, Saab, who is a sponsor of Opticept Technology and Knowledge Center, which extends beyond defense and security to encompass the vital agricultural sector. Thailand and Sweden share a strong bilateral relationship, with agriculture being a key area of cooperation. This collaboration highlights the potential for innovative solutions to address global food security challenges. With the cutting-edge of Opticept Electric Field (PEF), technology offers efficient food processing in maximising output and minimizing resource consumption without compromising quality. By supporting the collaboration, Saab extend the areas of defense and security, covering to sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth in Thailand. As a member of SweCham, we are proud of Saab’s commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship between Thailand and Sweden through the significant collaboration between Opticept technology and Thammasat University’s FiTU. Previous Next

On 30 November, SweCham President Peter Björk joined the Norway Asia Business Summit at Avani Riverside Bangkok together with more than 200 participants.  < Back SweCham President participated in the Norway-Asia Business Summit 2023 8 Dec 2023 On 30 November, SweCham President Peter Björk joined the Norway-Asia Business Summit at Avani Riverside Bangkok together with more than 200 participants. The Norway-Asia Business Summit, hosted by the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce (TNCC), aim to strengthen trade and investments between leading institutions, companies, and technology clusters. More than 50 speakers gave their view on topics from strategic business perspectives to cross cultural collaboration for over two days. The Summit is currently the most important meeting arena between Norwegian and Asian business leaders and have a target audience of business and industry leaders, government representatives, technology innovators, business support organisations, experts and academia, international organisations and media. The 2023 Summit was the first post-pandemic Summit, giving Norwegian businesses a chance to meet again, expand their networks, understand market trends, and gain insights into the region’s investment opportunities and challenges. Thank you very much TNCC for hosting the Norway-Asia Business Summit 2023, an event which was filled with insightful discussions and networking opportunities. Previous Next