Durian vendors shrug off 100-baht-per-fruit trend, pointing out you get what you pay for
Premium durian vendors in Si Sa Ket province say budget-priced fruit trending online hasn't impacted their sales, as loyal customers prioritize quality over cost.
After an influencer livestreamed durian sales at 100 baht per fruit online, the trend sparked a flurry of debate over the past 1-2 days about value and quality. Reporters visited Si Sa Ket province, home to the renowned "Phu Khao Fai" durian, where multiple vendors confirmed that while the cheap durian trend created buzz in the industry, it hasn't dented sales of quality fruit like Phu Khao Fai.
Vorapon Waendee, 36, a durian vendor in Uthumphon Phisai district, Si Sa Ket, said he's been selling durian for 8 years and has loyal repeat customers every year. He doesn't believe the 100-baht-per-fruit posts affect his business, as most customers understand product quality and buy based on satisfaction. His durian sells for 120 baht per kilogram, weighed whole before peeling. If customers aren't satisfied with the flesh quality after opening, he immediately replaces it.
Durian at 100 baht per fruit may be unripe or lower quality. If you want cheap durian, don't expect premium-grade flesh—everything must make sense relative to the price.
Meanwhile, Prom Yai, 44, a durian vendor, said her shop carries both Chanthaburi durian and Phu Khao Fai durian from Si Sa Ket. Chanthaburi durian sells for 150 baht per kilogram, while Phu Khao Fai sells for 180 baht per kilogram. Though pricier than typical durian, customers keep coming back because many trust the quality and taste.
The 100-baht-per-fruit trend doesn't affect our business at all, she said, because our customers prioritize quality over price. Some are willing to pay more for good durian with beautiful flesh and delicious taste, and customers are satisfied with that.
