Floods Reduce Beer Supply In Thailand

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. ubiquitous (adj.) [yoo-bik-wi-tuhs] – existing everywhere, especially at the same time

Example: It is difficult to drive through the ubiquitous fog.

2. peak season (n.) [peek] [see-zuhn] – the time when travel is most active and rates are highest

Example: Summer is the peak season for beaches and swimming resorts.

   

3. generate (v.) [jen-uh-reyt] – to produce

Example: Creative people come up with ideas that generate income.

4. take a toll (idiom)  [teyk] [uh] [tohl] – to have a bad effect on someone or something

Example: Consecutive days of insufficient rest take a toll on a person’s health.

5. inflated (adj.) [in-fley-tid] – in economics, excessively increased in prices, amount, or value

Example: Only a really rich person can purchase that house because of its inflated value.  

Article
Read the text below.

The floods that devastated tourist-centered Thailand in November left the country with beer shortage, causing profit loss in its entertainment business.

Bars and supermarkets around Thailand reported beer shortages. In the capital city of Bangkok, even the ubiquitous 7-Eleven stores ran out of beer and other food supplies.

In Phuket, a main tourist destination, the "beer crisis" came at an unfortunate time, just as the country was entering its peak season. The Patong Entertainment Business Association, which generates more than $3.25 million annually, said that beer sales generate the biggest profit in the entertainment industry. As bars ran out of beer, bar owners were forced to pay inflated prices to restock. This took a toll on the pockets of the consumers, who were then charged higher prices for beer.

While Phuket worried about beer shortage, flood-hit areas in Northern and Eastern Thailand dealt with difficulties in transport due to flooded main roads.

  

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

·         How can production in business avoid being affected by natural disasters?

·         What can companies do to recover from losses caused by natural disasters?

Discussion B

·         Who do you think are the most affected when natural disasters happen? Why do you think so?

·         How can people affected by a natural disaster recover?