by Mr.Thanaset

The Sun Group History

  Our group was founded in 2003 by my father, who started a CMT factory in Maesot, Thailand. As this borders Myanmar, and due to absence of Thai workers, he started using Myanmar workers, thereby gaining experience working with a different culture.

   After my study in Thailand (MBA, Kasetsart University, Bangkok) and the USA (BBA, Sam Houston University, Huntsville Texas) I joined the company in 2011. I saw the opportunity to expand my fathers business, and founded Northstar Manufacturing. We converted into a full FOB business model focusing on the export of high-quality manufactured garments worldwide. We offer a variety of garments which include uniform-, sports- and casual wear and military uniforms.

    In 2011, we used the opportunity to expand our business when Myanmar opened up for foreign investment. We started our factory in Yangon in 2013.

    It was difficult, labour laws where totally absent (74 hrs/week!) and in order to follow social compliances, we started offering 66 hrs/week. This resulted in getting no workers, but by adjusting our bonus systems we offer our workers 54 hrs/week with the same income.

    Another challenge was the increased lead-time with one week due to the shipment by sea from Bangkok to Yangon. In order to overcome this, we were the first company to truck the goods over land from Bangkok to Yangon. Starting this was a huge challenge as the road was only usable in one direction every other day. We also managed to be one of the first companies to obtain a BSCI certification in Myanmar.

    In Thailand, we are producing more and more uniforms. Our annual overall growth plan is 20%.