Coffin shops struggle to stay afloat amid oil price surge

Of all the businesses affected by the ongoing oil price surge, the funeral industry is among the hardest hit, with some coffin makers already deciding to increase prices due to the rising costs of raw materials.

Nattavut Suriyasenee, an executive of a major coffin firm Suriya Coffin, said that all materials used in the business have increased in price, including wood, paint and thinner.

He said that, despite mounting costs, the shop has not yet raised its prices, citing sympathy for grieving families.

“We understand that families are already going through a difficult time and many people are struggling financially,” he said, adding that businesses are trying to support one another during the downturn.

Most orders now come through online channels, Nattavut said, with the makers offering free delivery to nearby areas, while deliveries to other provinces are charged based on distance.

Meanwhile, Surapun Chermchit, owner of the Ananta Golden Coffin shop in Nonthaburi, admitted that the ongoing energy price crisis has significantly impacted operating costs, particularly transportation and raw materials, which have been steadily rising.

Timber has become more expensive due to higher fuel costs affecting logistics.

Surapun said that increases in coffin prices may be unavoidable.

“I used to sell a coffin for 1,000 baht. Now, it is 1,100, and it may rise to 1,200 soon. All the costs, including transportation and materials, have gone up. We are adjusting prices just to stay afloat,” he said.

For example, he said 9mm particle board has risen from 155 to 160 baht per sheet, latex has increased from 300 to 350 baht per 10 kilograms and primer paint (20 litres) has climbed from 480 to 560 baht, Surapun said.

Wreath prices have also increased, from 300 to 350 baht, while delivery fees are now calculated based on distance, averaging 5 to 6 baht per kilometre.

He called on the government to address rising fuel prices. “If fuel prices can be reduced, even slightly, it would help lower our overall expenses significantly,” he added.

Meanwhile, temples continue to serve as a safety net for low-income families. At Na Mai Temple in Pathum Thani, assistance is still available for those unable to afford funeral expenses.

A monk at the temple said they help arrange coffins and funeral rites for the underprivileged, ensuring they can carry out religious ceremonies.

The temple has provided such support for many years, offering a final refuge for those in need during life’s last moments, the monk said.