An $836m expansion of Central Pattana’s flagship mixed-use scheme marks a significant phase in Phuket’s evolution from a tourism-driven resort market to a year-round luxury living and investment destination.
Central Pattana, the retail-led real estate arm of Central Group, plans to increase the total space at Central Phuket by 40% to approximately 500,000m2. Full completion is targeted for 2028.
Located across 44 acres and operational for more than two decades, the development has long functioned as a commercial anchor for the island. The scale and structure of the new investment indicate a broader urban recalibration, reflecting rising demand from long-stay residents, high-net-worth individuals, second-home buyers and international capital.
A 500,000m2 mixed-use platform by 2028
The expansion will reposition Central Phuket as a substantially larger mixed-use platform, reinforcing its role within the island’s emerging downtown district.
By 2028, the enlarged scheme is expected to serve as a central node within a changing urban landscape supported by expanding residential supply and airport capacity upgrades. The development is framed as core infrastructure underpinning downtown formation rather than a standalone retail addition.
The 40% increase in gross space consolidates retail, dining and attractions within a single integrated environment, aligning with Phuket’s transition towards a more permanent coastal economy.
Largest culinary hub outside Bangkok anchors lifestyle shift
A key component of the expansion is the creation of Phuket’s largest culinary hub outside Bangkok, spanning more than 20,000m2.
The dining cluster will introduce premium international concepts and Michelin-recognised restaurants, forming part of a broader strategy to support year-round footfall beyond seasonal tourism cycles. The scale of the culinary component signals the growing role of food and beverage infrastructure within mixed-use luxury districts.
Three-phase expansion: Luxury retail, flagships and cultural infrastructure
The project comprises three principal elements scheduled for phased delivery through 2028.
Central Phuket Floresta will double its luxury footprint by the fourth quarter of 2026. The expansion is designed to consolidate flagship boutiques and exclusive brand concepts within what is described as Phuket’s emerging downtown luxury district.
Central Phuket Festival, due for completion in the first quarter of 2028, will house more than 250 fashion and bridge-line brands. The tenant mix includes Southeast Asia’s largest ZARA flagship alongside ALO, COS, H&M, Lululemon, Orlebar Brown and UNIQLO, reflecting Phuket’s increasing role as a strategic entry point for global brands expanding within Thailand.
A 5.5-acre Attractions Zone, scheduled for the third quarter of 2028, will introduce a purpose-built arena for entertainment and cultural programming, designed to broaden the island’s international draw.
