Developer OCIC and Thai hypermarket chain BIG C have signed a deal that will see the chain open its first hypermarket north of Phnom Penh at Chroy Changvar Satellite City.

The agreement will see BIG C open on a 2.7-hectare site at Sovann Machha roundabout next to OCIC’s latest commercial development, Sovann Machha. It will offer a range of premium fresh and dry food items and imported products.

The move forms part of the developer’s wider plans to elevate Chroy Changvar Satellite City’s status and develop the area into a self-sustaining city with educational facilities, retail outlets, and more.

“We are pleased to welcome the first BIG C within our Chroy Changvar Satellite City which is envisioned to be Phnom Penh’s newest central business district. This will be one of our anchor commercial establishments that will be directly connected to our newest, Sovann Machha,” said OCIC Director, Lim Lychin.

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“We will remain focused on our goals of making Chroy Changvar Satellite City the Crown Jewel of Phnom Penh, with a slew of other projects that commit to our mission of building opportunities where one can enjoy the best of leisure, entertainment, and business all in one address.”

OCIC and Thai hypermarket chain BIG C have signed an MoU to open a store in Chroy Changvar Satellite City. Kiripost/supplied

BIG C opened its first hypermarket in Cambodia in Poipet in 2019, and since then has expanded 20 small format “BIG C MINI” throughout Phnom Penh and Kampot.

“This progressive step is part of a broader expansion strategy over the next five years to develop multiple formats across the whole of Cambodia and indeed the Southeast Asia region,” Gary Hardy, BIG C’s COO said.

With OCIC developing the Russey Keo bridge, which soft opened to the public in April, together with other key developments, such as the entry of global F&B brands including Starbucks, the construction of various government buildings and state educational facilities, the satellite city north of Phnom Penh is fast taking shape as a new destination.

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The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on April 22 at a ceremony attended by Canadia Group Vice Chairperson Carolyne Pung, Canadia Group Executive Vice President Charles Vann, OCIC Director Lim Lychin, and BIG C COO Gary Hardy and Vice President Charun Chasawat.

marissa.carruthers@kiripost.com