Ratanarak Family
Overview
Founded by Chuan Ratanarak in the 1940s, the family controls Bangkok Broadcasting & TV (Channel 7), leading media firm, and holds major stakes in Siam City Cement, Thailand's second-largest cement producer, and land development via Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group. Market position: dominant in media and construction materials.
Description
Thai business family with holdings in media, cement, and finance. Controls Channel 7 and Siam City Cement.
Leadership
Governance
Held through family holding companies, with key entities like Bangkok Broadcasting & TV and Siam City Cement. Decision-making centralized under family patriarch and senior members, with professional management in operating firms.
Succession
Next generation involved: Krit Ratanarak (son) leads media and cement operations; transition underway with gradual handover of responsibilities. Succession plan appears structured with family council oversight.
Public-Sector Context
Historically close ties with Thai military and political elites due to Channel 7's broadcasting license. Regulatory influence in media and cement sectors. Risk: potential changes in broadcasting regulations or political instability.