Tesco’s Thailand Business Likely Safe From The Auction Block

British grocery retailer Tesco recently sold its South Korean operation Homeplus to improve its raggedy balance sheet. Analysts expect further cash-raising, debt-reduction, divestments, but sources say the company’s operations in Thailand – about 1,400 stores – are probably safe. The Tesco Lotus unit is as well-known a retail brand in the country as 7-Eleven and Central. It is also financially healthy and profitable with a lot of growth potential. Overall, the retail market in Thailand is buttressed by a high economic expansion rate, growth of middle-income consumers and a growing preference for shopping in modern stores.