Western Union Celebrates 20 years of Bridging Connections for Amazing Thailand

          Western Union, a leader in global money transfer services is proud to be celebrating the 20th year anniversary of its services in Thailand. Starting from one retail Agent location at the Central Department Store in Chidlom Bangkok in 1995, Western Union® Money TransferSM services are now available in more than 6,000 Agent locations and 7,000 ATMs nationwide through collaboration with 8 Agents, covering all 77 provinces in the country.
          Celebrations for the anniversary kicked-off with an inauguration of a landmark bridge in Amphawa Floating market. 10 boats were donated to the townspeople for them to use to clean the river. As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, Western Union employees and Agents also helped to clean the river after the inauguration ceremony. Other CSR events are also planned throughout the year that will include cleaning up the beach, temple and Chatujak market.
          "Tracing our roots to 1851, Western Union understands how to value history and legacy and shares the same sentiment with Thailand's heritage. Thus, our CSR efforts are directed towards helping to preserve Thailand's amazing historical and cultural landmarks." says Atish Atish K. Shrestha, Western Union, Regional Director – Indochina.
          Other events also took place within the week to celebrate 20 years of Western Union's services in Thailand. The commemoration of the 1st Agent location and recognition of the longest serving front line associate (FLA) was held in the place where it all started 20 years ago at the Central Department Store in Chidlom.
          Aside from the commemoration of the 1st Agent location, Western Union hosted a gala event to celebrate 20 years of bridging connections with our stakeholders in Thailand. Ever since 1851 when Western Union pioneered the telegram and subsequently, in 1871 when Western Union first offered money transfer services, the company has always been about connecting families and loved ones. The gala event will bring Western Union employees, Agents, government officials and several dignitaries from the embassies together for a night of celebration that will further highlight Western Union's commitment to bridging connections for the nation of Thailand and its people.
          "Western Union continues to be the bridge that builds and strengthens connections by offering several fast and reliable money transfer services options to help meet needs of families and loved ones around the world. We are honored to have served the Thai people and have been part of building and strengthening this nation for the past 20 years." says Patricia Riingen, Western Union, Senior Vice President, Southeast Asia & Oceania.
          Tourism has played a significant role in building Thailand's economy. Western Union is privileged to have participated in advancing tourism in Thailand for two decades by facilitating the money transfer needs of the tourists in the Kingdom. We have, therefore, planned several projects and campaigns in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to reaffirm its commitment to advocating Thailand's ecotourism initiatives. In July, we shall be launching the Amazing Thailand Getaway Promotion in major countries whose nationalities visit Thailand. Consumers who send money to Thailand using Western Union's services shall be automatically entered into a raffle and will have a chance to win an all-expense paid trip for 2 to experience Thailand's amazing culture in Koh Samui for 4 days. For more information, visit www.westernunion.co.th.