BANGKOK, Dec. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mekhong continues to empower and inspire Thai mixologists on the global stage through the Mekhong The Spirit Competition 2024. Now in its seventh consecutive year, the competition showcases the artistry of Thai mixologists and their world-class cocktail creations, further solidifying their recognition among both domestic and international audiences.
This year's theme, 'One & Only Thai Spice Rum', invites mixologists to highlight Thailand's premium spiced rum heritage by creatively incorporating local ingredients to craft signature Thai-flavored cocktails. The winner will earn the prestigious honor of having their cocktail served at the Michelin Guide Ceremony 2025.
The competition attracted hundreds of talented mixologists from across Thailand and around the world. After a rigorous selection process, only 16 participants advanced to the semi-finals, with just eight making it to the highly anticipated final round. The event was distinguished by its esteemed panel of judges, comprising industry leaders from both national and regional levels.
Notable judges included Dechapongsa Kanchanalakshana, the Mekhong Master Blender who created the original Mekhong blend; Yujiro Kiyosaki, the owner of the acclaimed Bar LIBRE in Japan; Chanond Purananda, a legendary figure in Thailand's bartending scene; and Suchada Sopajaree, the owner of the celebrated bar Lost in Thaislation.
Mixologist Nopadon Thamsongla from Margarita Bangkok won over the judges with his cocktail creation, Mekhong 2484. The concoction draws inspiration from the year B.E. 2484 (1941), blending historical significance with bold flavors. It is served alongside watermelon and tofu to create a uniquely memorable experience.
In addition to a cash prize of 30,000 baht, the winner will have the honor of serving their cocktail at the Michelin Guide Ceremony 2025 and embark on an exclusive guest bartender shift in Japan. This incredible opportunity will allow the winner to further enhance their reputation and gain international exposure.
The Mekhong brand continues to stand tall as a proud Thai icon, championing national soft power and elevating Thailand's talented mixologists onto the global stage.
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Mekhong Hosts "Mekhong The Spirit Competition 2024" for 7th Consecutive Year, Promoting Soft Power Through Thai-Inspired Cocktails
SHANGHAI, April 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- From April 2 to 31, the Assembly Character Toys brand Blokees made its debut at the 2026 Thailand Toy Expo. Blokees unveiled its two major categories — Blokees Model Kits and Blokees Wheels, highlighting a diverse product matrix of more than 300 products across 17 globally recognized IPs, including Ultraman, Transformers, DC, Evangelion, Naruto, Minions, Jurassic World, Hatsune Miku, and Hero Infinity. Four new model kits also made their global debut, emerging as key highlights of the event.
Mario Maurer attended the opening ceremony of Blokees Thailand Toy Expo as a special guest and engaged in interactive exchanges with consumers.
In the Blokees Model Kits category, Blokees exhibited its Champion, Legend, and Fantastic Series, featuring popular IPs such as Transformers, DC, Mega Man, Saint Seiya, Evangelion, and Naruto. More than 50 products were presented to consumers. Among them, four newly launched items—including Blokees Saint Seiya-Champion Class-12-Phoenix Ikki, Blokees Saint Seiya-Champion Class-14-Andromeda Shun, Blokees DC-Champion Class 05-Batman (HUSH), and Blokees DC-Champion Class 06-Catwoman (Hush)—drew strong interest from fans.
Blokees also highlighted its HERO5 and HERO10 series, featuring well-known IPs including Transformers, Saint Seiya, and Naruto, catering to consumers of hero-themed collectible models.
The DaaLaMode series introduced a range of products inspired by popular IPs such as Hatsune Miku, appealing to female consumers. Meanwhile, the TERRAVENTURE series presented nature and creature-themed model kits based on Jurassic World, further expanding Blokees' offerings across different consumer segments.
In the Blokees Wheels category, which integrates construction, play, and customization, products are organized into the C, E, and S series. The lineup includes IP-based offerings from Transformers, Ultraman, and Batman, with upcoming collaborations featuring Fast & Furious and Ford.
In addition, Blokees highlighted its global consumer ecosystem, BFC (Blokees Family Creator). Selected works from 2025 The 3rd BFC Creation Contest Stellar Season were exhibited in Thailand for the first time, reflecting strong user creativity and engagement. 2026 The 4th BFC Creation Contest Season of Awakening has officially launched, further encouraging global participation.
Under its "Universally appealing, Stepwise pricing, Globally promoting" strategy, Blokees continues to expand across Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America. Thailand is rapidly becoming a strategic hub in its regional expansion, as the company strengthens both product innovation and community-driven growth worldwide.
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Blokees made its debut at 2026 Thailand Toy Expo, exhibiting multiple products
