The company was founded in 1977 by Chinese-born businessman Kraisorn Chansiri. It started out as a seafood processor and exporter, and later expanded into contract manufacturing, supplying products to be sold under big global brands. In 1995, the founder's son, Thiraphong Chansiri, took over the post of CEO from his father at age 30. It was then that the company started selling products under its own name by acquiring renowned brands.
In 1997, it purchased a 50% stake in U.S. tuna major Chicken of the Sea International. Thai Union made the company a wholly owned subsidiary in 2001. Other acquisitions include John West of the U.K. and Petit Navire of France, both the leading canned fish brands in their home markets.
Currently, contract manufacturing accounts for about 60% of Thai Union's revenue, with business under its own brand making up the remainder. While tuna generates nearly half of its sales, the shrimp, sardine and mackerel businesses are also significant sources of revenue.
According asia.nikkei.com