BUSINESS LEADERS’ MEETING POINT
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JOVO VUJČIĆ, PRODUCTION DIRECTOR, CARLSBERG SRBIJA
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BELGRADE
Investing In The Future Has No Cost
A Celebration Of Learning
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VOJIN ĐORĐEVIĆ, CREATOR OF THE VODAVODA BRAND
ČEDOMIR JANJIĆ, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ZRENJANIN
VODAVODA Conquers The World
There Will Be Ever More Jobs
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JOVAN MILIVOJEVIĆ, SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR AT KERAMIKA KANJIŽA LTD.
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Setting Out To Conquer Europe
ALEKSANDAR MIŠKOVIĆ, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LIVNICA PRECIZNIH ODLIVAKA (PRECISION CASTINGS FOUNDRY) PAGE 49
Little Ada For A Big World
CESTRA D.O.O.
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CORPORATE
JOVO VUJČIĆ, PRODUCTION DIRECTOR, CARLSBERG SRBIJA
Investing In The Future Has No Cost At the Čelarevo Brewery, which forms part of the Carlsberg Group, one of the world’s leading producers of beer, 224 million euros has been invested to date. Some €4.5 million was invested in 2017 alone, while investments worth €6.5 million are planned for the current year 2022 you will use electricity produced 100 per cent from renewable sources. Are these really achievable goals? - We are already working a lot on this, as evidenced by the opening of the new biomass boiler room, representing an investment worth a million euros. Apart from being an innovation on the Serbian ith the opening of a new market, the new boiler room also represents a breakthrough in the overall operabiomass boiler room worth tions of the Carlsberg Group. Our brewery a million euros, Carlsberg at Čelarevo is the first Carlsberg brewery has clearly shown its strategic commitment to making numerous in the world that will use the implementation of this technology to contribute investments in Serbia and ensuring to improving its own energy efficiency stable operations in order to achieve Within the framework of the and reducing the negative effects of long-term plans and successful reCarlsberg Group, a lot of young production on the environment. sults on the Serbian market By introducing this technology, people are employed and ■ Carlsberg has for decades been tasked with using their energy alongside the pre-existing biogas one of the global leaders in the boiler, we have more than doubled and broad perspectives fields of ecology, environmental our use of renewable energy in the to conquer alternative protection and sustainable develproduction process, which now acopment. What forms the basis of counts for 40 per cent. The biomass technologies and develop your strategy? used as a fuel by the new boiler is oralternative principles ganic matter of plant origin, or wood - At a time when the entire world is of operations chips that are obtained by purchasfacing challenges like climate change, ing and breaking down waste pallets water shortages and public health from the brewery itself. As a renewable issues, the Carlsberg Group has adopted biomass and electricity, means more to energy source, biomass is CO2 neutral, its SAIL’22 strategy and a programme for us than financial benefits. which means that during combustion it achieving sustainability under the title We are doing everything globally, because we focus on the use of knowledge, emits exactly as much carbon dioxide as ’Together Towards ZERO’. It implies four as well as the development and improvewas bound to the plant through the promajor ambitions: zero carbon footprint, ment of existing knowhow and experience, cess of photosynthesis during growth. zero wastewater, zero irresponsible alcohol consumption and zero injuries at work. all in order to develop sustainability and We have also invested in a CO2 station, Although the strategy was adopted improve balance in the production process. a wastewater treatment plant, and now just a year ago at the Group level, we at the new biomass boiler room, all of which ■ You announced last year that carbon Čelarevo are working intensively on its clearly shows that we are heading in the dioxide emissions at your breweries will realisation. I will allow myself to note right direction and that our plans and be reduced to zero by 2030, and that by that we have become a pilot plant, a strategy are implementable. pilot brewery, so when people come from elsewhere in the Carlsberg Group to visit us, they ask if there is anything new and what we are working on right now. As early as next week, in front of the Group’s most eminent experts in charge of energy, we will present in detail what we have done here, with our boiler room that works on biomass and biogas. The opportunity to present what we are doing to such experts, as well as the trust placed in us by the Group when we initiate new projects related to biogas,
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■ It is estimated that as much as two thirds of the planet could face severe water shortages by 2025. How does the Carlsberg Group combat water scarcity? - We really look to see how this purified water can be used in the production process... for irrigation, cleaning, disinfection... We are reducing yearon-year the amount of water needed to be consumed for the production of
facility. It is practically sludge that has optimal levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content, thanks to which it can be used as an organic soil cultivator. By registering “supercompost” as a cultivator, the amount of waste dumped at landfill sites has been reduced by half, and the aim was for waste to be handled in an environmentally sound manner. “Supercompost”
heritage, protecting the environment, raising awareness of social problems and investing in future generations. How are experiences to date with the work of the Foundation? - We launched the Foundation in 2015, with the desire of following all that is good, and everything left through the legacy of Jacob Jacobsen. We worked on nurturing history through investing in
VLADIMIR VAVA, CEO, Carlsberg Srbija
one unit of our finished product. We the future. We invest a considerAll products that are able part of the Foundation’s funds are even endeavouring to reduce to incinerated in the new boiler in new young talents and talented levels below those outlined in our development strategy, by moving to room, including ash and smoke future colleagues. We have very good cooperation with universities below three hectolitres of water per gases, adhere to the legal – technical, technological, ecohectolitre of product by 2022. And regulations of the Republic nomic, legal – and the Foundation our current level of consumption is of Serbia and the European connects all of that through scholalso considered very low. Our wastewater treatment plant is Union, which means that they arships. Meanwhile, on the other hand, we also have an internal technologically conceived so that in don’t have a negative impact programme with which – through the process of wastewater treaton the environment ment, among other things, biogas the model of work placements – we is produced replaces part of the engage talented youngsters at the can be used as an additional fertilnatural gas used for the production of brewery and develop among them a iser for field crops, vegetables, fruits heating energy. Carlsberg Srbija uses spirit of proactivity, belonging, enthusiasm, a high level of energy and a desire and grapevines. Following successful this gas as a substitute for natural gas, to change things. implementation at Čelarevo Brewery in quantities of up to 18%. We are aware that no one can work itself, the ecological concept of “supercomput” has been adopted throughout along anywhere, not in any entity. In ■ So-called “supercompost” was also Europe at many other companies of the order to achieve good results, you don’t created at Čelarevo and is used as a Carlsberg Group. only need high-quality people, but land cultivator. Is this “invention” rather people who can work with you as being used by other breweries in the ■ The Carlsberg Foundation was estaba team, to be committed to a common Carlsberg Group? lished with the aim of advancing scimission, vision and idea that precedes - “Supercompost” is created as a byence and education, preserving cultural everything. ■ product in the wastewater treatment M AY
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LOCAL NEWS
DIPLOMACY “The EU is suffering from a serious illness, which is deafness when it comes to Serbia. Perhaps the disease is curable, we should work on it.”— IVICA DAČIĆ, Serbian Minister of Foreign Affairs NALED
MILENIJUM OSIGURANJE
Strategic Goals By 2021
Fair Discount - Casco 25% Cheaper
Atthe12thAnnualAssembly,itwasestimatedthatNALED wasaverysuccessfulyearandthatthenumberof300members from the ranks of the economy, local self-government and civil society organisations were reached. InadditiontothepositiveresultsachievedbyNALEDinthe previous period, and more talked about by President of the Management Board Aleksandar Ružević, the NALED strategic plans for the period 2018-2021 were presented at the meeting. NALED members voted in the vote that NALED’s two key NALED program goals in the medium term would be to improve the regulatory framework for business and capacity building and accountability of the public administration. Within the first goal of the critical activity will be the work on further reduction of the grey economy, development of e-government and e-business, improvement of the cadastre operation, development of the agriculture and health sector, as well as the improvement of international competitiveness and regional cooperation. The second objective envisages engagement in improving the capacity of state administration and local self-government to support the economy, develop the process of adoption and the quality of laws, and engage in the process of EU accession to strengthen the competitiveness of the economy.
The upcoming “BG CAR SHOW” auto fair, to be held at the Belgrade Fair, has prompted Milenijum osiguranje to prepare a special fair package. Anyone who purchases a policy in the period from 22nd March to 31st May will receive a 25% discount on a casco insurance policy. This fair discount applies to all insurees - both private individuals and registered companies. In addition to this discount, Milenijum osiguranje also offers other benefits, such as paying premiums in 12 monthly installments. Casco insurance policies cover a large number of risks that can cause the destruction, damage or disappearance of vehicles, for example, vehicle theft, destruction or damage to vehicles in motor accidents, fire, lightning strikes, explosions, adverse weather conditions such as storms and flooding, and the like. Apart from advantages for purchases of casco insurance, with the purchase of just one policy, Milenijum osiguranje, under the name PACKAGE 5+, citizens can simultaneously insure their
HELLENIC PETROLEUM
Greece Launches Tender For Hellenic Petroleum Privatisation
DIREKTNA BANKA
Direktna Banka Buys Piraeus Bank Beograd Greece launched an international tender to sell a majority stake in its biggest oil refiner, Hellenic Petroleum. At least 50.1 percent of Hellenic will be sold, in one of the biggest asset sales under Athens’ privatisation scheme launched in 2010, and interested investors must submit expressions of interest by May 18. Major shareholders Paneuropean Oil and Industrial Holding and the Greek government agreed to divest at least 50.1 percent of Hellenic, which is Europe’s third biggest oil refiner based on its market value of €2.6 billion. Paneuropean Oil owns 45.5 percent of Hellenic and the Greek government holds a 35.5 percent stake. Suitors need to have at least three years of experience in the oil and gas industry, while in the case of a consortium, at least one member must meet this requirement.
Direktna Banka a.d Kragujevac officially acquired 100% ownership of Piraeus Bank a.d. Beograd, to expand its business and strengthen its position on the Serbian market. As a universal bank, Direktna Banka aims to provide services for natural persons and medium-sized enterprises. Merging with Piraeus Bank a.d. Belgrade will provide better accessibility for Direktna Banka to its clients, as this integration will increase the sales network of the bank by as much as 50%. After the merger, which is expected in November 2018, the banks will operate under the name of Direktna Banka and will have a consolidated network of branch offices throughout Serbia and assets of approximately €500 million. In the previous year alone when it bought Findomestic banka a.d. Beograd, Direktna Banka recorded a profit of €1.9 billion, and it continues with a positive business trend in 2018, as evidenced by the bank’s RSD 118 million profit in the first quarter of this year.
BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Seventies Disco Event British International School invites you to the Seventies Disco event that will take place on 19 May at BIS Primary School Campus, Uzicka 7a, Belgrade, from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. This year the proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Hospital in Tirsova, Belgrade, Department of Hematology and Oncology. For many years, a great number of embassies and companies have participated in our charity events, contributing to the causes and helping us in raising the awareness of our students about the importance of charity work. The entrance to the event is free. Raffle tickets will be sold on the day, and visitors will have the opportunity to win valuable raffle prizes donated by a variety of prestigious hotels, restaurants and companies… There will be an exciting stage programme, food stalls, activities and games for children and much more. For additional information contact us on info@bis.edu.rs or give us a call on 011-3066-096.
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AIR SERBIA “I hope that Etihad would not leave Air Serbia. However, if that does happen, and Etihad decides to go, Air Serbia will be stronger than Jat.” — ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ, Serbian President
Placements & postings appointments@aim.rs
▪ H.E. CARLO LO CASCIO, NEW ITALIAN AMBASSADOR TO SERBIA
cars, themselves and other travellers. PACKAGE 5+ covers the following risks: accident insurance of vehicle occupants and passenger vehic, road assistance, insurance of passenger vehicles due to natural hazards (storms, lightning strikes, hail damage, flooding), insurance against vehicle glass breakages, aswellas“replacementvehicle”.Theannualinsurancepremium is fixed and amounts to RSD 3,600 with a tax on premiums. Milenijum osiguranje is focused on satisfying the demands of clients at the highest level, which is also confirmed by the fact that it is one of the leaders in timely claims handling.
Ambassador Carlo Lo Cascio (55) was born in Palermo, Italy, where he graduated in law. He began his career in diplomacy in 1990, with his first foreign posting as second commercial secretary, then first commercial secretary, in Bonn, German, in 1994. He became first commercial secretary in Sarajevo, later confirmed in the same position as an advisor, in 2001. Returning to Rome, from 2001 he served in the Directorate-General for Multilateral Political Affairs and Human Rights, after which, in 2005, he was appointed first counsellor at the Italian Embassy in Belgrade. In 2008 he became ambassador resident in Maputo, Mozambique, whilst also accredited to Mbabane, Swaziland. In 2012 he served the Director-General for Globalisation and Global Issues, then subsequently the Coordinator for EU relations - sub-Saharan Africa, while in 2013 he was appointed head of the unit for the Balkan Countries. He became Deputy Director General for the EU and Principal Director for European Countries in 2014, then served as Vice Director General for the EU at the Italian Foreign Ministry in 2015. Ambassador Lo Cascio was awarded the title of Official Knight of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Italy in 2007.
▪ FEZA TAN, NEW CHAIRWOMAN OF UNICREDIT BANK SERBIA JSC
AFI EUROPE
A One-Of-A-Kind Experience For All Potential Buyers
”Skyline Belgrade” residential-business complex played host to the representatives od the media at its sales house located at the corner of Kneza Miloša and Durmitorska streets. On this occasion, the media representatives had a chance to get acquainted with all the amenities available to potential real estate buyers within this residential-business complex in addition take a virtual walk around the apartments within the complex by using VR technology. The sales house will provide relevant guidelines to all interested parties related to apartment acquisition, as well as support in all phases of the sales process: from presenting the apartments to potential buyers,givingadviceregardingthebeststructuralsolutionsto fit the buyers’ needs, to the final apartment selection and the handover of keys. Thanks to well-versed staff and the most modern technology that sets “Skyline Belgrade” apart from the rest on the Serbian market, “Skyline Belgrade” aims to develop professional yet personalized relations with clients and adapt to their needs and desires. As the up-and-coming symbol of the Serbian capital, “Skyline Belgrade”. “AFI Europe”, an Israeli investment and development company behind this residential-business project, has been operating on the Serbian market since 2005. Its projects “Airport City Belgrade” and “Central Garden” are testament to the evident market leadership role of “AFI Europe”, both when it comes to architectural solutions and urban development.
FezaTan holds a Bachelor degree in Economics from Boğaziçi University, İstanbul and Risk Management Program Diploma from Manchester Business School. Ms.Tan started her career in Turkish Yapi Kredi, member of UniCredit Group, in 1993 as Management Trainee in Corporate Credits where after two years she became Analyst in Corporate Credits. In 1997, Feza was appointed as Corporate and Project Finance Underwriting Manager where she established first project finance team in Turkey. From 2001 she was Head of Corporate and Commercial Credit Underwriting, while in 2009 she took over the position of Head of Corporate and Commercial Credit which she was leading until 2013 when she was named Head of Corporate and Investment Banking. Moreover, Feza was also a Credit Commıttee and Board Member in leasıng and factorıng companies, as well as in 3 foreıgn subsidiaries of Yapı Kredi. She is coming from the position of Head of Corporate and Investment Banking in Yapi Kredi Bank where she was also Executive Committee member.
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ALEKSANDAR JAKOVLJEVIĆ, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL FOR SOUTHEAST EUROPE As of last month, the new managing director / CEO of company Philip Morris International for Southeast is Aleksandar Jakovljević, who succeeds Jelena Pavlović in this position. Jakovljević joined Philip Morris in 2015, and within the company has previously held the positions of financial director for the market of Southeast Europe and financial director for the markets of Ukraine, the Caucasus and Moldova. Prior to joining PMI, he held financial and general managerial positions in various international companies. Pavlović, outgoing managing director and current president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Serbia, has been appointed Chairwoman of the Board of Directors.
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ROBERTO MANCUSO, NEW GENERAL DIRECTOR AT METRO CASH & CARRY FOR BOTH SERBIA AND CROATIA Roberto Mancuso has been appointed general director of METRO Cash & Carry Serbia, while he will also maintain his existing position as general director of METRO Cash & Carry Croatia. Mancuso began his career at METRO in Italy in 2001, and since then has held numerous positions within the company in five different countries, including spending more than four years as general director of METRO Serbia, before being appointed general director of METRO Croatia in July 2017. During the period of his leadership of METRO in Serbia, Mancuso successfully managed the transformation of the company from a traditional cash & carry retailer to its current model with multiple sales channels. Deliveries of goods intended for professionals (B2B customers) is available to thousands of customers, with five delivery platforms located within METRO facilities.
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CORPORATE THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BELGRADE
A Celebration Of Learning The International School of Belgrade (ISB) is proudly celebrating its 70th anniversary. Thousands of children have passed through the portals of knowledge at ISB since the school was founded in 1948. This would not be possible without ISB’s caring, committed and highly qualified educators
ANNE GOSLEE-JOVOVIĆ
A
nne Goslee-Jovović joined ISB in 1970 and continued her stellar work until retirement in June 2017. She worked for almost five decades in various teaching capacities and taught Language Arts, Social Studies, Visual Arts and Art Enrichment classes.
grams) all have enriched the mission of ISB throughout the years. Enrolment fluctuations from 10 to over 400 students from K-12 have demanded a flexible staff and administration. The amazing teachers and administration who have passed through ISB classrooms have brought teaching methods and experience from around the world. Changes in the host country’s government and economy, as well as international communications/relations, have varied greatly during the history of ISB.
What kind of results has this concept yielded? - The results include a student population that is not afraid to try something new, to help each other and others in Belgrade, to accept differences, to independently design research projects, to feel confident in displaying their work in the school and community, to study in foreign countries and in foreign languages.
■ The International School of Belgrade was established way back in 1948 and this year celebrates seven decades of work. Which years ■ For the International School of and periods proved crucial to your Belgrade, the interests of pupils school? and their most diverse needs have - Each period in ISB’s history has always been at the centre of attention. How difficult is it to create proved challenging in its own way: a balanced curriculum that is Adapting buildings, developing The amazing teachers and tailored to the majority yet also grounds and campuses, including administration who have to the individual? specialised technology, sports, art, passed through ISB classrooms customised - Rather than being difficult, I drama, music, science and adminishave brought teaching methods would say that it is a joy as a tration rooms, has continued from the 1950s to the present day. teacher to develop a class curand experience from around riculum that is flexible enough to Liaisons and accreditation with the world encourage many different ways of the ECIS (European Council of InterI believe that each challenge has national Schools), CEESA (Central and mastering it. served to make ISB a stronger school. Eastern European Schools Association), NEASC (New England Association ■ Your school has always been ■ Your teachers strive to inspire and of Schools and Colleges), the Pittsford, known as an empowering and direct school pupils towards disNY, School to School project, the IB healthy environment that promotes covering their interests, talents and (International Baccalaureate Primary learning. What specifically sets you passions, towards being leaders. Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Proapart you from the schools of the 40 |
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MIDDLE SCHOOL ART STUDENTS, 2015
education system of the state of Serbia, but also other international schools? - As an international school, ISB has the privilege of sharing the varied viewpoints of students from more than 40 countries and teaching them to learn beyond an assigned, fixed curriculum. The positive relationship with the host country of Serbia and the significant Serbian student population at ISB have ensured that international families posted to Serbia feel welcome. ■ Despite its long tradition and rich experience, your school also respects and accepts the demands of modern times and adapts to them
STUDENT ARTWORK IN ISB, 2013
SHARING MIDDLE SCHOOL ART WITH THE BELGRADE COMMUNITY, 2012
accordingly. Is this one of the secrets of the success of both your school and your pupils? - Yes, it certainly contributes to the success. ISB has followed advances in
festivals, debate, model UN and a rich offering of languages have all consistently enhanced the ISB curriculum.
■ Although you are an international school, you both respect and cultural differences. As an international school, ISB promote How do the pupils handle such has the privilege of sharing the an environment? - Cultural diversity has been the varied viewpoints of students norm at ISB. Teaching at ISB enfrom more than 40 countries abled me to celebrate students’ and teaching them to learn individuality and also explore what beyond an assigned, fixed each of their cultures offered. In my middle school art and English curriculum classes, students worked towards information technology since the bethe goal of each lesson with the appreginning. And such activities as sports, ciation of how much the work of each travel, art exhibits, drama, music, of their classmates might differ from community outreach, cultural arts their own. ■
STUDENT ART EXHIBITION, 2011
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REGIONAL NEWS
BEHAVIOUR “The attempt at tearing apart a Croatian or any other flag or state symbol and insulting members of official delegations on a friendly visit to Serbia is not the kind of behaviour that represents Serbia.”— ANA BRNABIĆ, Prime Minister
ROMANIA
FYR MACEDONIA
Mitsubishi Electric Europe Opens Subsidiary In Romania
First Western Balkans Digital Summit
Mitsubishi Electric Europe has launched its first subsidiary in Romania through Mitsubishi Electric Living Environmental Systems citing the favorable economic conditions and the growth of the local market. Last year, the company recorded sales of around €10 million, accounting for 10 percent of the market for air conditioning systems. For 2018, Mitsubishi forecasts additional growth of sales. Yoji Saito, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Europe, pointed BULGARIA
Mondi Invests Over €600mln In A New Plant
out that the expansion in Romania marks the beginning of fresh growth in Eastern Europe. Mitsubishi Electric Living Environmental Systems has been present on the local market through distributors since 1990.
The International Packaging and Paper Production Group Mondigroup intends to invest over €600 million in the construction of a new plant in Bulgaria. Mondi is an international group for packaging and paper production, with about 26,000 employees in production units in 31 countries located on four continents. It serves markets around the world. Mondi’s main production units are located in central Europe, Russia and South Africa. Mondi Stamboliiski EAD was established 60 years ago on the banks of the Maritsa River in the town of Stamboliyski. Today it is the biggest pulp and paper producer and the biggest user of technological wood in Bulgaria, using entirely local coniferous timber as its main raw material. It is owned by Mondi since 2006.
At a joint press conference, Minister of Information Society and Administration of Macedonia Damjan Manchevski, Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society Mariya Gabriel, and Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Goran Svilanović, pointed out the importance of the first Digital Summit held in Skopje. “The Western Balkans Digital Summit 6 is a confirmation that we are all working towards the same goal”, said Commissioner Gabriel. “For us, the Western Balkans is part of the European Union, while the digital transformation will help us succeed in intensifying our cooperation. Under the recent Enlargement Strategy for the Western Balkan Countries, digitalization is placed high on the political agenda. We have important projects before us, such as reduction of roaming prices and cyber security”.
CROATIA
Croatian Hotel Resort Project In China Set To Open The impressive LN Garden Resort Hotel, designed by Zagreb-based architect studio 3LHD, is set to open in June 2018. This huge project in China is another feather in the cap for the Croatian firm. Located in southern China’s Guangdong province, on the Zhu Jiang (Pearl River) estuary, the LN Garden Resort is part of the Nansha Seaside Park. The hotel forms a unique entity with the surrounding landscape, has 374 rooms and is categorized higher than 5-stars in the Platinum category. The hotel outdoor areas are designed to merge the building with the surrounding landscape. Green elements from the exterior appear in the interior linking it with the environment. Shade is provided with tree canopies placed on the water surfaces, or on the green or paved areas next to them. The investor is Chinese state firm Guangzhou Lingnan International Enterprise Group.
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“With the adoption of the laws on e-Commerce and e-Government, Serbia has eliminated all obstacles for e-Government’s rapid development”, said Mihailo Jovanović, Director of the Serbian Office for IT and e-Government. “It has passed all necessary legislation for the complete digital transformation of the public administration and local government. The project for electronic identification of e-Government users is under way as one of the priority projects of the Office, aiming to provide citizens and companies with a very simple online access to e-Government services, without the need for qualified electronic certificates on smart cards, relying instead on electronic signatures in the cloud.” He added that mutual recognition of electronic identification of citizens and companies in the Western Balkans region is the basis for cross-border use of electronic administrative services, and that regional cooperation and the improvement of neighbourly relations are among Serbia’s foreign policy priorities.
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CORPORATE VOJIN DJORDJEVIC, CREATOR OF THE VODAVODA BRAND
VODAVODA Conquers The World VODAVODA comes from a depth of 605 metres, is filled at the very source without any additional finishing, and has an outstanding mineral composition, which the most demanding and fastidious consumers recognise and appreciate. Many new markets have been conquered; the conquest of the rest of the world is under way
■ A partnership between VODAVODA and Unicef will enable the work of development counselling centres for children in 15 Community Health centres in ■ VODAVODA is the first mineral water Belgrade. What’s next? in Serbia that has received the NSF certificate. Was it hard to enter the most - Our future is in what we are creating exclusive restaurants in which, until now, and what we are dreaming about. atural properties and quality then, only Evian, One and Fiji water Our vision, desire and responsibility are are what distinguishes VODAwere served? that one day VODAVODA should reach all VODA from all other waters - Natural properties and quality are what corners of the world. When we are now and opens the doors to hotels distinguishes VODAVODA from all othsuffering the consequences of centuries ers and opens the doors to hotels and and restaurants, from the Belgrade of man’s carelessness towards nature, restaurants, from the Belgrade Metropol Metropol to Qatar’s Four Seasons. We we find it important that something good to Qatar’s Four Seasons. The prestigare also proud of being partners of some and useful to the planet should come ious NSF certificate is a confirmation of of the biggest sporting events, because from Serbia and to enable the whole world this quality, which allows marketing in only quality counts there. to enjoy its benefits. Unicef has goals that America and other distant countries. The focus on health, early child development ■ Only two years after VODAVODA’s and the quality of life for future generations, and we allow ourselves to market comeback, you have reached We wish to use our abilities Singapore, Korea, Hong Kong and to support the noble idea and say that our values and goals coincide. all the countries of the Persian Gulf. vision carried out by UNICEF ■ VODAVODA is the only domestic How do you explain this success? so that VODAVODA can partner of Euroleague and the offi- Success is much easier in these cial drink of Final Four, which is held markets because they are well regucontribute to and continue lated. They recognize and appreciate this year in Belgrade. How did these to live in a high-quality quality and the law clearly defines prestigious contracts come about? environment. We will pay the requirements to be declared as - We are fortunate that many people special attention to coming a premium product. Precisely for recognise true values and quality and this reason, its quality, VODAVODA do not compromise when organizing generations has not only returned to the foreign big events. That’s why the Euroleague NSF has verified properties due to the market but has occupied even better has chosen us, a special honour. We think fact that the water comes from a depth positions, because in those markets it is good that VODAVODA as a partner of of 605 metres, is filled at the very source there is a clear differentiation between these sporting events comes from Serbia, as a land of basketball and important without any additional finishing, and has processed waters and premium waters global names in the game. It is especially an outstanding mineral composition. that are completely natural. important to us that this year’s Final Four This composition was analysed by the In our market there is no such differentiation, and reaching the position will be in Belgrade and that the presence Medical Faculty in Belgrade, showing that that VODAVODA deserves due to its of VODAVODA will provide all the players VODAVODA enables all of the body’s cells quality and design is more challenging, with additional strength. ■ to function properly. but we are patient and confident that our goals will be achieved.
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CORPORATE ČEDOMIR JANJIĆ, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ZRENJANIN
There Will Be Ever More Jobs The City of Zrenjanin is among the first in Serbia to open new, fully-equipped industrial zones and to attract investors with various benefits and the efficient work of the administration. This has paid off for the city
I
am satisfied that serious investors are coming to our city, that existing ones are expanding their operations, and that we are interesting to foreigners, but I am even more satisfied that domestic companies see Zrenjanin as a good place to invest
Momo, a local Zrenjanin firm with a tradition dating back 32 years, has begun expanding its capacity, which will naturally also require an increase in the number of workers. The largest investment – not only in Zrenjanin but in Serbia as a whole – is construction of the production facilities of South Korean company Essex, which is being realised in the “Jugoistok” (Southeast) industrial zone. This contract is worth €30 million, and the production complex will employ 160 workers who will have an average net monthly salary of 90,000 dinars.
ment of this branch of the economy. Company MPZ Agrar, which operates within the framework of Meat Industry Matijević, purchased 10 hectares of land in the “Northwest – Elemir” Industrial Zone and will construct the most modern cold storage facility there, with a capacity of 15,000 tonnes. MPZ Agrar also plans to plant fruit on an area of around 1,000 hectares, 300ha of which are on the territory of Zrenjanin, and 200 workers will get jobs. Otherwise, every investor enhances the attractiveness of the industrial zone in which they operate, enticing new investors, which in turn raises the price of construction land and improves the economic environment.
■ There is ever-increasing interest in your city among investors. This Thanks to the environment spring alone, company Essex that we’ve created, small launched operations, MB invest businesspeople have ■ Zrenjanin is also awaited by bought land, Unionimpex and important tasks in utility infraMomo announced new advances, expanded their operations. structure. What are your plans like? as did MPZ Agrar, UM-ING etc. How This led to 448 workers being What is happening with the project many new jobs can Zrenjanin resisought at the 22nd dents expect in the period ahead? to construct a water factory? Employment Fair, from drivers, - We work for every day to be better - I can state with pride that we have made great strides forward in the last and, of course, it is a great wish sales staff and sales agents, four years and that we are in conof mine to do everything that we via warehouse staff, stant negotiations with new potential promised citizens we would, and we locksmiths, bakers, bricklayers, are doing that – from the bypass investors. Reducing the number of steel fixers and tailors, unemployed is one of our priorities, and water factory, to large infrastructure works such as the conand we are very dedicated to that job to sales managers struction of four lanes on roads to and also, I would say, successful. Belgrade and to Novi Sad. The investors that already operate in ■ Do you also expect new investors When it comes to the water factory our zones are very satisfied, and some of and, if so, from which industries? Is projects, after overcoming procedural them, such as Dräxlmaier, Fulgar, Gomex the local government working on the and legal problems, it will finally be made and UM-ING, are expanding their capacicreation of even better conditions; do ties. Dräxlmaier alone has hired around operational, and supplying citizens with you plan to expand industrial/business 2,000 new workers, which is extremely safe drinking water will finally be solved, zones? important for us. after 14 years. This did not progress as - Apart from industry, the City of Zrenjanin also devotes special attention Unionimpex is planning to open a fast as we wanted and expected, but we to agrarian policy and the creation of showroom for Peugeot cars and to are still just a step away from a lasting optimal conditions for the developemploy 12 to 15 new workers, while solution to this problem. ■ M AY
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WORLD NEWS
SANCTION I “Regardless of the political situation, the German private sector is invested in Russia like no other. This was and is the case, and will remain so.” — MATTHIAS SCHEPP, AHK Chairman FINLAND
GREECE
The Largest Rooftop Solar Power System In Nordics
EIF And NBG New EU Guarantee Agreements
Fortum and S Group have come to an agreement on the installation of the largest rooftop solar power system in the Nordics. Themajoritystate-ownedenergycompanyrevealed thatitsubmittedthewinningbidforimplementingthe electricity system on the rooftops of approximately 40 commercial buildings owned by S Group, a Finnish retail co-operative, across Finland. With a total capacity of roughly 10 megawatts, the system would have accounted for nearly a third of the total solar power capacity of Finland in 2017 and will become the largest rooftop solar power system ever inaugurated in the Nordics. S Group stated that its objective is to use its renewable energy assets to generate 80 per cent of the energy it consumes in 2025. The Finnish government has pledged to provide 20 per cent of the eight million euros required for the energy project, according to YLE.
The European Investment Fund (EIF) and the National Bank of Greece (NBG) have signed three guarantee agreements worth €640 million to improve access to finance for smallandmedium‑sizedenterprises(SMEs)inGreece.These agreementsbenefitfromthesupportoftheEuropeanFund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the heart of the Investment Plan for Europe, the Juncker Plan. Under the new InnovFin agreement, NBG will provide loans at favourable terms to innovative SMEs and small mid-caps for two years. EIF’s guarantee is provided under the initiative “EU InnovFin finance for Innovators” with the financial backing under Horizon 2020, the EU research and innovation programme. The EU’s support for innovative Greek companies under this transaction is expected to generate a portfolio of €100 million of loans. In addition, EIF signed an EaSI microfinance guarantee transaction with NBG, supporting €40 million of loans to 3,400 micro-borrowers – very small companies – who have difficulties in accessing credit across the country. NETHERLAND
Wageningen University To Develop Chinese Agriculture Research Centre Wageningen University is to head the development of a new food and agriculture research centre east of Beijing. Wageningen’schancellorArthur Mo said that the university was not investing any money in the €1bn project, but it would supply a great deal of knowledge. The research centre will house academic institutions and the business community who will work together to make Chinese agriculture more productive and to tackle environmental issues. The aim is to create China’s leading R&D centre in the field of agriculture and food. The University is also involved in a joint venture with China to improve standards in the dairy industry. Chinese students, both MSc and PhD, make up 10% of the Wageningen students population and the trend is set to continue, the university says on its website.
TURKEY
Turkey’s Metcap, Fusion Of Qatar Ink $5.2bln Deal Metcap Energy Investments of Turkey and Qatar’s Fusion Dynamics signed a $5.2 billion protocol to invest in natural gas and petrochemicals in Turkey. The two firms will build a natural gas-based chemicals plant in northwestern Turkey’s Trakya province for $4 billion with a capacity to produce 2.6 million tons of methanol and 1 million tons of light olefins annually, according to a report in the Daily Sabah newspaper. The investment, backed by government incentives, will reduce the country’s current account deficit by $1.4 billion. The companies will also complete a natural gas combined-cycle power plant of 550 megawatts for $1.2 billion. Construction of the facility in Turkey’s Kırklareli and Karaman region is already underway and will meet about 5 percent of Turkey’s total electricity production needs, Daily Sabah said. Metcap is run by Celal Metin, former chief executive officer of Sabanci Holding, one of Turkey’s largest industrial groups. The company has completed three wind farm projects and built a small power plant in Turkey’s Samsun region. The investments will be completed by 2023, Turkey’s centenary year.
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10 BUSINESS
ETIQUETTE RULES EVERY PROFESSIONAL SHOULD KNOW
When it comes to the business world, etiquette goes far beyond using the right salad fork. Many people assume 'etiquette' refers to which fork you use for the salad and how quickly you should send a thank you note after receiving a gift. When it comes to the business world, however, the way you behave says a lot about your professionalism. Here are 10 business etiquette rules you need to be aware of and avoid breaking at all cost: 1. Use your full name when introducing yourself. 2. Stop crossing and uncrossing your legs. 3. Don't eat at your desk. 4. Don't just walk into someone's office. 5. Keep personal items off the table. 6. Keep questions to a minimum in meetings. 7. If you did the inviting, you pay. 8. Reply to everyone on emails when it's necessary. 9. Remove people from email threads who don't need to be there. 10. Limit your "thanks yous."
SANCTION II “The sanctions aren’t just increasing; they’re turning into a tool of real economic war. We will take all measures needed to stabilise the situation.”— DMITRY MEDVEDEV, Russian Prime Minister ISRAEL
CHINA
“Together Pharma” Signs Deal To Sell 5t Of Cannabis Oil In Canada
Top 10 Influential Chinese Business Leaders In 2018
Israeli cannabis company Together Pharma has announced that its subsidiary Globus Pharma, specializing in the medical cannabis sector, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to sell medical cannabis or oil to an unnamed Canadian company with a license to grow, produce and import medical cannabis. Under the agreement, the Canadian company will buy 50 tons of dried inflorescences (flowers) of cannabis each year or its equivalent, five tons of medical cannabis oil from Globus Pharma. The companies will also collaborate in R&D and promoting technologies in the medical cannabis sector. The companies estimate that the sales revenue of this deal will be between $3.17 and $4.7 per gram of inflorescence. Globus Pharma will provide the Canadian company with medical cannabis from farms in Israel “subject to receiving an export permit for medical cannabis” or from its farm in an overseas country, which has an export agreement with Canada.
Technologies No 3: Jack Ma, founder and chairman of Alibaba Group No 4: Wang Jian, chairman of Shenzhen Huada Gene Research Institute, No 5: Liu Qiangdong, board chairman and CEO of JD.com No 6: Lei Jun, chairman and CEO of Xiaomi Technology and Chairman of Kingsoft Corp No 7: Yu Liang, chairman of China Vanke No 8: Wang Chuanfu, chairman and president of BYD No 9: Fang Hongbo, chairman and president of Midea Group No 10: Zhang Yiming, founder and CEO of Bytedance, the developer of Toutiao
MA HUATENG
Ma Huateng, chairman and CEO of Tencent Holdings, is the most influential Chinese business leader in 2018 according to Fortune China. Ren Zhengfei, founder and CEO of Huawei Technologies, and Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba Group Holding, grabbed second and third place respectively in this year’s ranking. Let’s take a look at the rest of the list. No 1: Ma Huateng, chairman and CEO of Tencent Holdings No 2: Ren Zhengfei, founder and CEO of Huawei VIETNAM
Fintech On The Rise Start-ups in Vietnam have invested around US$129 million in the field of fintech, according to Ernst & Young (EY) The survey was carried out on more than 250 fintech (technology used to support banking or financial services) companies in more than 10 countries, providing insights from regional fintech experts. The number of incubators and accelerators and innovation labs in Vietnam is estimated at 24, the second most among ASEAN region, following Singapore. The country has also launched a fintech club, which allows businesses to improve knowledge, support and share experiences. The most important thing though is to develop a legal framework for this service. According to EY experts, policy support from authorities will form the foundation for a fintech ecosystem that encourages creativity and healthy competition. EY experts also said many banks want to hire fintech to provide digital banking services, instead of developing solutions themselves. This way will benefit both sides and help save costs.
KOPAONIK
The Other Side Of The Mountain, Top Destination For Team Building Good relationships among staff have been shown to improve the working environment and contribute to their satisfaction and higher productivity. That is why, in recent years, in many companies a new business philosophy of improving interpersonal relationships is used, more commonly known as team building. One of the destinations that is not only known for skiing and good fun, and which, apart from the summer and winter season, has developed a high quality offer for the organisation of the most diverse corporate events, but also for team building is - Kopaonik. What distinguishes MK Resort and the Grand Hotel for organising this type of event is a good combination of modern congress capacities, the possibility of accommodating a larger number of participants in one place and a natural environment at the centre of the National Park, which provides many opportunities for organising innovative team building games. Organisers have numerous sports and entertainment facilities in the hotel and outdoor facilities that will complement each programme at a business event. Safari tours, mountain biking, orienteering, archery, picnic in nature, quad driving, rafting and many other activities, get them from the business
Spring team building package – hotspot of the season at the Grand Hotel • Team building games of your choice: Escape Kopaonik, trophy hunting, archery training, team building polygon • Lunch in nature • Conference facilities and equipment • Sports in the hotel - basketball, volleyball, handball tournaments • Bowling - team competition • Gift for team building game winners For groups of 30 to 200 participants. Valid until 30 June 2018. From as little as 61 EUR per package. More information at www.mkresort.com.
stereotype into a natural environment where business processes are simulated through various exciting games. On the other hand, the Grand Hotel congress centre is one of the most famous and most modern in Serbia, and it is no wonder that there are about 250 events a year, both national and international. More than 70% of these events are team building groups, and the demand is increasing year after year, not only by international companies, but also by a large number of domestic companies that have recognised the benefits of investing in their staff.
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CORPORATE JOVAN MILIVOJEVIĆ, SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR AT KERAMIKA KANJIŽA LTD.
Setting Out To Conquer Europe Ceramics company Keramika Kanjiža has existed for 38 years, and for the last three has been the official leader on the domestic market. Thanks to the quality of its products, and modern equipment that would be the envy of many global companies, this comppany is also highly rated in developed Western countries
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rom the very beginning, our idea was to provide every customer with the opportunity to define their own space, in accordance with their individual style, intentions and habits. With the brand’s evolution and the introduction of new formats and dimensions, we provide a huge range of possibilities to combine and express. In that sense we are unique.
■ You were the first company in Serbia to introduce the Ink Jet digital printer into regular production, and two years ago you completely digitised the process of decorating ceramic tiles. You’ve now modernised your production facility with the strongest presses and introduced Gres quality tiles. How important was this for the production process? - The introduction of digitisation to the production process in 2016 certainly represented a revolution on our market. We recognised the transition to IT technology as the right business move and an opportunity for us to develop, to decorate tiles more boldly, and to bring quality control to perfection. That is why we now have optical-laser control, thanks to which we can detect even the 48 |
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tiniest imprecision. We are able, in this way, to provide customers with perfect ceramic tiles with a wide range of decorations and dimensions. With the installing of the strongest presses in the region, which we possess, we have created a new space in which we produce large dimension “Gres Poreclain” tiles. Due to the high thrust that this press has, we produce extremely strong tiles. ■ You have enriched your offer with realistic imitations of natural and building materials, including cement, brick, concrete, Carrara marble etc. What sells the best?
It is very important for us to retain the leadership position on the domestic market that we have had for the last three years - Our customers’ needs are our driving force. We are happy that we are able to satisfy their desires and the style they have and are developing. Thanks to the best pigments from Italy, we succeed in implementing the ideas of our customers, and that’s what led to the rise of our interpretations of natural and building materials, such as wood, marble, brick and stone. These tiles act better spatially, are easier to maintain and are more cost-effective than the original natural materials.
Domestic consumers still prefer to choose slightly “richer” décor, such as stone, marble and Carrara imitations. An absolute hit on Western markets is the replica wood, the weathered design, socalled Shubby Chic. ■ What’s more difficult: retaining a leading position on the domestic market or conquering foreign markets? - It is very important for us to retain the leadership position on the domestic market that we have had for the last three years. This is not an easy task, considering all the disloyal competition, both among domestic retail chains and with imported junk products. But we have existed on the domestic market for 38 years and quality is synonymous with our products, which gives us something of a slight advantage when it comes to maintaining our leadership position. However, along with the introduction of numerous innovations for this season, we have also set new goals – we will pay special attention to the idea of becoming one of the leading manufacturers of ceramic tiles on the European scene, standing side by side with the world’s best known manufacturers. This will be a special challenge. It is definitely more difficult to conquer foreign markets, but that also carries with it excitement, as well as great joy for every consignment of tiles we sell. ■
CORPORATE ALEKSANDAR MIŠKOVIĆ, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LIVNICA PRECIZNIH ODLIVAKA (PRECISION CASTINGS FOUNDRY)
Little Ada For A Big World Founded in 1978, the Ada-based precision castings foundry - Livnica Preciznih Odlivaka – has today been rejuvenated, thanks to the support of Israeli company Bet Shemesh Engines Ltd., as a supplier of the world’s leading manufacturers of engines and components for turbojet engines
ness, dedication, discipline... There is no other recipe for the constant growth e overcome the competiof production, revenue and profit. We tion with our devotion, inhave been certified by companies like dustriousness, dedication, MTU Aero Engines from Germany, Pratt discipline and knowhow. Whitney Canada, Pratt Whitney America, Customers always seek the same things UTAS from the U.S., and Goodrich and ITP – high quality, deliveries on time and from Spain. We were the first company in competitive prices, and that’s precisely Serbia to receive the AS9100 certificate, what we offer. In addition, we observe just as we are now the first company to ■ How did you succeed in breaking into strict discipline in our work and culture of possess an NADCAP certificate for special the world aviation industry market and communication, which is very important thermal processing and HIP processes, becoming competitive? in the aviation industry. while we also plan to acquire two more NADCAP certificates. Being in this ■ You supply some of the world’s business and remaining successful Young, educated people must and profitable for years is not easy, leading companies in the aviation industry. How did you acquire such but for us every day is a new battle. be given an opportunity to respectable clients from Germany, remain in their own country, to the U.S., Canada, Spain etc.? ■ Youngsters today are reluctant feel useful and successful - The Livnica preciznih odlivaka to opt for professions based in foundry is orientated fully towards production. How do you gain the - We found a way to maintain ourselves foreign markets, or rather the Western required professional personnel? and develop as a supplier of the aviamarket, which is the only one that has - A lack of qualified workers is becoming tion industry with the continued and respectable manufacturers of engines our country’s most serious problem, and unselfish support of parent company Bet and components for turbojet engines it is one that we recognised a few years Shemesh Engines Ltd. from Israel. Our for commercial aviation. The criteria for ago, when we launched cooperation with success has also been recognised by the entering such an exclusive club are exthe local secondary school and thus tried tremely stringent. Becoming a successful Government of Serbia, with which we’ve to “build up” the necessary personnel. supplier, adopting new programmes and implemented a successful 2013 grant That approach has now become difficult, acquiring new clients is a very painsagreement, and I hope we will soon sign so we will develop, train and educate the taking, arduous and enduring process, another agreement that will represent required personnel by ourselves. When it but the satisfaction of a job well done an important message to all current and comes to engineers, we solve the problem through a combination of reasonable ultimately justifies the effort exerted. future investors. salaries and possibilities to advance and And that satisfaction is even greater Success always comes thanks to employees, and this is the answer to the learn, but also by providing them with when one considers that we are located question of how we have beat the the opportunity to resolve their housing in a deeply provincial area, far from major competition - devotion, industriousissues in the most affordable way. ■ industrial centres.
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We have mastered all the lessons; our employees are highly disciplined, welltrained and dedicated to the company’s success. All of our managers, engineers, inspectors and an enviable number of personnel in the facility can communicate independently in English, which is something that doesn’t exist in other companies from other countries.
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CORPORATE CESTRA D.O.O.
Cestra, The Pride Of Serbia The Belgrade Company Cestra has been pronounced National Winner in the European Business Awards competition and business winner in Serbia in the category ‘Turnover from 0 to 25 million euros’. In May, we will see if they are the best in Europe
Owing to its professionalism, extensive operating range, numerous demanding apid change requires constant parking facilities, cycling infrastructure and projects that have been successfully completed, the company has been pronounced adjustment and seeking optimal, building construction. Environmental and National Winner in the European Business innovative and sustainable soluSocial Impact Assessments (ESIA) for existtions in all areas of human activity. ing infrastructure projects, and for plans Awards competition and business winner in When solutions for new and existing infraand programmes, are an integral part of Serbia in the category ‘Turnover from 0 to structure projects are needed, clients turn the core business and represent one of the 25 million euros’. The decision was made by to Cestra as a leader in this field. steps in designing sustainable solutions. the votes of independent judges, including The beginnings of our company Cestra Consulting and technical assistance, business leaders, politicians and academics from the most developed countries, date to 2005 when the Danish company which imply comprehensive technical, environmental, legal and financial assessment and Cestra will represent Serbia in the final COWI A/S established a company in Serbia of a project, also represent one segment stage of the competition. within the COWI group, so as to extend the Adrian Tripp, CEO of the European Business experience and knowledge it has acquired Awards said: “This is a remarkable achieveacross the globe to this part of Europe too. ment, and Cestra is clearly a leader in its A team of local and international experts field. To be a National Winner means to repwas soon formed, who strengthened their resent our key values of success, ethics position on the market and became a and innovation, and to be one of the best recognisable brand. Last February, the Cestra has generated in Europe”, wishing the best of luck in the company became one hundred per cent more than EUR 3.5 million final round of the competition. locally owned, retaining a strong connecof revenue, it operates in 14 tion with its international partners. The European Business Awards have The company specialises in the areas countries, with 60 permanent been awarded for 11 years. The primary of infrastructure development, waemployees and more than 100 purpose of the competition is to support ter and environmental engineering, the development of the business comtemporary staff (at the annual munity across Europe. This year, more consulting and technical assistance, level), working on over than 110,000 companies from 34 counand it participates in some of the most tries participated in the competition. important and largest projects in the 50 ongoing projects Cestra is also competing in the catcountry and the region. Current activities include consulting, designing, planning, egory ‘European public winner’, where the of the company’s activities. The services and research in the field of engineering and public from around the world will vote on cover assistance and managing projects for infrastructure projects, including spatial the winner. The competition’s popularity is construction, rehabilitation, reconstruction, planning, transport planning, planning for shown by the fact that as many as 250,000 supervision and public–private partnerships roads, railways, tunnels, bridges, terminals, votes were registered last year. ■ in large infrastructure projects.
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