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FEBRUARY 2016

www.endeavourmagazine.com

BMW South Africa Crafted Cars ENAP Energising The Future Lamprell Eyes On The Future

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INSPIRED BY YOUR SUCCESS

EDITOR’S NOTE Heads of Departments Editor in Chief Daemon Sands daemonsands@littlegatepublishing.com Director General Don Campbell doncampbell@littlegatepublishing.com Editorial Research Manager Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com

S

ustainability is a big word at the moment and one that is sure to draw attention from customers, clients and partners alike.

There is a revolution occurring that will first encourage and then

demand that businesses large and small make sustainable products

Sales Director Tyler Harrison tylerharrison@littlegatepublishing.com

and sustainable working a priority and there aren’t any industries that

Sales Manager Emlyn Freeman emlynfreeman@littlegatepublishing.com

This month we were able to speak with Brian Hazard, the man behind

Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com

shaping the music industry today and how musicians are going to be

Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com

Further afield, we have sought out the businesses whose start

Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com

are the appropriate time for reinvestments into businesses, plans

will escape. the music of ColorTheory regarding the never-seen-before changes making their standout careers in the future. up stories demonstrate how periods of decline are inevitable and and goals. We show how a focus on sustainability is offering fresh ideas and opening new doors for companies across the globe, be it TGV Cinemas, one of the leading cinema chains in Malaysia, who

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are redeveloping how they are entertaining guests, or ENAP, who, with a market share exceeding 59% in crude oil-based products, are still looking to grow and develop in accordance with a goal for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

We have taken a look at energy providers like E.ON who have invested millions not only in currency but also man-hours into developing sustainable opportunities and options for their gas storage and distribution in Germany and Edison Power, whose growth has seen the company move and ride the tide of political, economic, social and

Littlegate Publishing Ltd does not accept responsibility for

now sustainable hurdles that it has overcome and used as leverage to

omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles

improve upon itself.

by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher.

2016 is set to be the year of sustainability where businesses realise

Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely

the possibilities and the benefits of thinking sustainably, focussing on

coincidental. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy

what should and what can be done on a day to day basis to help

of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising

change the world and usher in a sustainable future.

from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Copyright Š Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2016

Endeavour Magazine | 3

CONTENTS

83

E.ON Gas Storage

FEATURES

15

Build It

4 | Endeavour Magazine

11

17

23

29

39

45

55

61

73

81

89

95

101

107

113

119

125

Agrinet Moving Heaven And Earth Build It Can They Build It? Yes They Can! Al Jaber Engineering and Construction Al Jaber Shapes The Country Golf Data The Gap Between Business And Leisure Cleveland Mining Building Up And Digging Down COVER STORY ENAP Energising The Future Boskalis As Far As The Eye Can See COVER STORY BMW South Africa BMW Cars Are Crafted COVER STORY Lamprell A Company With Its Eyes On The Future TGV Cinemas The Face Of Malaysia’s Entertainment Edison Power Seizing Opportunities E.ON Gas Storage Keeping The Gas In Revive Electrical Transformers Family Business With Family Values Airtel People, Communities And Dreams Staatsolie Suriname Grassroots To Sky High Centriq Insurance Founding A Company Transformation SANBS The Easiest Way To Save A Life

43 Boskalis

ARTICLES 3 6 66

134 136

142 144

Editor’s Note Business Headlines Automotives The New Mini Clubman All4 Nissan’s Future Electric Batteries Gadgets Travel Geocaches And Hermit Caves Unparalleled Luxury On The Nile Book Reviews Spotlight Brian Hazard Hazarding A Guess At The Future Of Music

89

Revive Electrical Transformers Endeavour Magazine | 5

BUSINESS HEADLINES

DELIVERY WARS 2016: PARCELHERO SAYS THIS IS THE YEAR OF DRIVERLESS DELIVERIES, DRONE DROP-OFFS… AND THE RETURN OF PEDALLING POSTIES. International parcel broker ParcelHero says deliveries will be the new retail battle ground, with delivery choice as important as price for many consumers. Powering these delivery wars will be driverless vans, delivery drones… and the return of old-school pedal-power.

of driverless vans operating a predetermined route, moving parcels between either warehouses and shops or stores and homes.”

Continues David: “The vehicles will be autonomous, and may serve a large distribution centre and the O2 Arena. However, whilst

Your doorstep parcel collections and deliveries will be transformed

control of the vans is entirely automatic, ParcelHero expects there

over the coming year, says leading parcel broker ParcelHero. The

will be a person in the van to ensure the operation runs smoothly

company says deliveries will become the new retail battlefront, with

and to take control in the case of an emergency.”

customer-friendly delivery options ranking as important as price for

As well as driverless vehicles, drones could appear in UK skies

many consumers. New technology will increase customer choice of

far sooner than has been previously predicted. Aviation regulations

when and where your items are delivered and you could even find

are now holding back their introduction just as much, if not more,

your packages delivered by drone or driverless truck!

than technology issues and the UK Government has been quick

ParcelHero’s Head of Customer Research, David Jinks MILT, says:

to support Amazon’s trials. Last year Amazon approached the UK

“This year will see a transformation in the way we send and receive

Government about developing drones in the UK to deliver items

parcels and deliveries. We believe seemingly ‘sci-fi’ delivery methods

here, as it felt America’s Federal Aviation Authority rules had hindered

are nearer than most people think. Driverless deliveries may sound

their development. Transport Minister Robert Goodwill confirmed:

like something out of I Robot, but in fact will be happening in

“We’re working with Amazon and the Government is working on the

London this year. Greenwich’s streets will soon see the eerie sight

whole issue of drones…we’re both keen to innovate”. Mr Goodwill

6 | Endeavour Magazine

WORLD’S BEST OBAMA IMPERSONATOR SHOCKS EUROPEAN DIGNITARIES Today, the world’s best impersonator of President Barack Obama surprised countless prominent politicians and business people in Belgium and Holland with a lightning visit.

van den Broek, and former

der Kant, managing director of

Dutch Minister Gerd Leers.

Assemblee

Chicago

native

Reggie

Speakers

Bureau

representing him for Europe.

At the New Year’s Lunch of Assemblee Speakers Bureau at Hotel

Brown has made a career out

There

La Butte aux Bois in Lanaken, American actor REGGIE BROWN

of playing the role of President

confusion

was

made an appearance as the 44th President of the United States,

Obama on stage, as well as in

renowned guests attending the

much to the astonishment of the group of luminaries gathered

film and television. He now

lunch when the leader of the

there, which included ‎Honorary Consul-General of Japan (Belgium)

delivers his keynote speech

free world suddenly entered

Piet Steel, former Dutch Chief of Defence Peter van Uhm, Executive

all over the world. It was his

La Butte aux Bois restaurant

Commander of the Royal Dutch Army Lt. General Mart de Kruif,

first performance in Europe

under heavy protection during

former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt, Minister of State Hans

on invitation of Maurice van

the yearly New Year’s speech

among

complete the

many

of Assemblee’s founder Leo van der Kant.

“I have experienced a lot in my life,” says Leo van der Kant, who in the past has invited the presidential Clinton,

candidate

among

Hillary

others,

to

Europe to give a speech.

“But there was incredible astonishment in the room when the personage of Barack Obama paid a call on them. My guests are used to many things, but this topped it all. A surprising start to the new year.”

added: “Amazon came to see me to ask about starting drone trials in

electric assistance without being

the UK because regulations in the US were too restrictive. So much

classified as motor vehicles.

for the land of the free.” In December 2015, Amazon boss Jeff Bezos

David

revealed: “One of the regulatory agencies that’s moving fastest on

“ParcelHero

concludes,

this is the UK, so it’s possible that drone deliveries will start first

delivery

in the UK.” Observes David: “Perhaps the sky really is the limit for

DHL, also plan to be involved

deliveries in 2016.”

in many other technological

and

partners

its

quality

UPS

and

Finally, alongside all these hi-tech innovations, we will also see the

developments such as increased

return of old fashioned pedal power for deliveries: Says David: “The

green urban deliveries using

Royal Mail controversially phased out postie’s bikes in 2014 and the

electric vehicle, and radical new

famous red Pashley Mailstar cycle found itself re‘cycle’d. Ironically,

approaches to click & collect.

this ‘modernisation’ comes at a time when the green delivery

This will be the year technology

movement is growing and cargo bikes will become increasingly

delivers for parcel senders and

popular with operators for last mile deliveries - particularly in cycle-

internet retailers.”

friendly towns and cities such as Cambridge.” The next-generation cargo bikes can carry parcels as well as mail and – thanks to a change in the law last year - heavier cargo bikes can now be fitted with

TRAVEL

Geocaches and Hermit Caves Endeavour Magazine | 7

HELLOFRESH DELIVERS JAMIE OLIVER TO YOUR DOORSTEP As of last month, HelloFresh

achieved already is amazing. It

and Jamie Oliver have teamed

has been a lot of fun working

up to create a new cooking

with

experience to make living a

the recipes for this wonderful

healthy lifestyle easier than

partnership. We have the same

ever before. Each week, one

mission, and that’s to better

of Jamie’s recipes will be in

connect

HelloFresh’s boxes, giving the

HelloFresh’s recipes are healthy

British public the best possible

and the recipes are broken down

set-up for easy, tasty home

really simply, so even novice

cooking. Jamie is thrilled that

cooks will be able to follow them

HelloFresh’s service gives more

and get a great result. They’ve

people the chance to prepare

made cooking really good food

his dishes: “For me, HelloFresh

from scratch, using top-quality

makes cooking from scratch

ingredients,

even easier. Their delivery of

for busy people. My recipes for

ingredients straight to people’s

HelloFresh are nutritious and

doors is a hugely convenient

broken down really simply, so

way for everyone to try my

everyone will be able to follow

recipes”, says the celebrity chef.

the, and get a great result.”

REALISE YOUR COOKING POTENTIAL WITH HELLOFRESH AND JAMIE! HelloFresh to

providing

is

have clear, easy to follow steps with no unnecessarily complex techniques; it’s the perfect way for kitchen newbies to get ahead.

HelloFresh

to

people

really

develop

with

food.

accessible

BE INSPIRED AND SURPRISE YOUR LOVED ONES

For experienced cooks, HelloFresh is an ideal way to expand their

HelloFresh is always looking

committed

recipe repertoire. Last, but not least, HelloFresh pride themselves

to improve the home cooking

timesaving,

on giving their customers new ingredients and flavours that they

experience for their customers,

wholesome and delicious meal

may never have tried otherwise. Now that they have Jamie Oliver’s

whether

kits, which is why they have

recipes too, there will be even more to enjoy.

sensational

that’s new

through recipes,

chosen these quick, healthy

Jamie is excited about sharing his recipes with HelloFresh

ingredients and partnerships, or

and fun to cook recipes from

customers around the world. “I’ve been admiring what HelloFresh

by offering cooking hints and

Jamie. HelloFresh recipe cards

has been doing from afar for a while now and what they have

tips in their magazine and blog.

TURN UP THE HEAT ON VALENTINE’S DAY WITH FOOD NOIR’S OPULENT DESIRE EXTRAVAGANZA Food Noir, the capital’s sauciest dining club, has big plans for Valentine’s Day 2016, with an extravagant pop-up going by the name of DESIRE. DESIRE is the second in the series of Food Noir’s dining clubs, following on from the sold out TEMPTATION events which beguiled diners throughout the autumn.

After luring in legions of fans with an atmospheric, multi-sensory experience that combines food, music, live acts and a multitude of other tantalising elements, Food Noir is setting its sights on Valentine’s Day. DESIRE, which launches on the 14th February will tease and tantalise with an unforgettable experience for avant-garde couples that want to take a step outside the box. The new DESIRE

Qritikal Media are designed to stimulate every sense. Coming alive

by FOOD NOIR events will run once per month for three months.

in DESIRE, the signature FOOD NOIR ambience is set to a backdrop

With exquisite interiors in exclusive settings, immersive risqué

of world-class cuisine. Food Noir has built a reputation for decadent

theatre performances and atmospheric soundscapes purposely

multi-sensory, utterly unique dining experience like nothing else

created for FOOD NOIR by the award winning visual music creators,

available anywhere in the capital.

8 | Endeavour Magazine

The aim is for couples, friends

“Everything I do is about better connecting people with food,

and families to cook and eat

helping them to understand where it comes from, how to cook it and

delightful

what it does to our bodies”, the celebrity chef makes clear.

dinners

together.

Their partnership with Jamie

The Jamie Oliver Food Foundation was founded in 2002. The

Oliver gives people even more

Food Foundation is made up of three food education groups; the

opportunities to wow their loved

Kitchen Garden Project (empowering primary school teachers

ones by cooking up a storm!

to integrate growing food and cooking during the school day),

“It’s such an exciting prospect

the Ministry of Food (a practical and hands-on community-based

for us to be able to offer Jamie’s

cooking programme that teaches people of all ages how to cook

recipes

from scratch) and the Fifteen Apprentice Programme (using the

in

our boxes,” said

Patrick Drake, Head Chef and Co-Founder of HelloFresh. “Our customers love the fact that we send them everything they need to be able to cook delicious meals at home. And now, they’ll be able to recreate top quality dishes tailored to their needs by the nation’s most loved celebrity chef!”

magic of food to give young people a chance at a better future).

HOW WILL IT WORK? Jamie Oliver’s recipes will be available in all HelloFresh boxes; Classic, Vegetarian and Family. His recipes are every bit as delicious, nutritious and easy to cook in around (~30 mins.), as HelloFresh’s current recipe collections.

The HelloFresh and Jamie Oliver Limited partnership extends across six countries in which HelloFresh is active – the UK, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, USA and Austria.

ABOUT HELLOFRESH DOING GOOD BY EATING WELL

HelloFresh currently operates in the UK, Germany, Austria, the

One of the core elements

Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and the USA. HelloFresh delivered

of their partnership is educating

13.2 million meals in the three months ended September 30, 2015,

people about food and cooking.

and 6.1m meals in November 2015. HelloFresh was founded in

So, for every box sold, HelloFresh

November 2011 and is based in Berlin. Further corporate offices

will donate to Jamie Oliver’s

are in New York, London, Amsterdam and Sydney. Current investors

Food Foundation. HelloFresh

include Baillie Gifford, Insight Venture Partners, Phenomen Ventures,

customers will be able to help

Rocket Internet and Vorwerk Direct Selling Ventures.

make a difference while eating well and reducing food waste.

Madame Noir of Nude Noir,

further on a journey of exploration, all studded with elements of

the elusive force behind Food

surprise. TEMPTATION was breath-taking and DESIRE builds the

Noir, says, “As someone who

suspense to a goose bump-tingling crescendo.”

is intimately familiar with the

She adds, “Bookings are now open for those who wish to

things that bring pleasure to my

surprise a lover with the ultimate Valentine’s treat – a dreamy,

audiences, I innately understand

seductive spectacular for those with no inhibitions and an

how important it is to tantalise

insatiable desire for the utterly unique. ”

each and every one of the

The events take place at the secret location in Kensington and

senses. Whether you’re sampling

Chelsea, starting at 8pm until late. The entry fee, which starts at

exquisite cuisine while wearing

£99 per person, includes a sumptuous four-course gourmet meal,

a blindfold, or watching our

a signature welcome cocktail and the immersive experience itself.

professional performers while

Guests must come suitably attired for this spectacle – ladies are

deeply inhaling musky incense,

encouraged to drape themselves in lace, silk, satin and leather,

my second in series exclusive

while the gentlemen in attendance should stick to a black tie dress

DESIRE dining club takes guests

code for the ultimate in sophistication.

BOOK REVIEWS

10 | Endeavour Magazine

AGRINET WWW.AGRINET.CO.ZA 0027 12 657 2000

MOVING HEAVEN AND EARTH WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

Originating from a central buying co-operative for agricultural businesses way back in 1950, Agrinet started life called Vetsak. Through a number of smart acquisitions, strategic growth and a commitment to not lose sight of its roots, the company has gone from strength to strength, so we took a closer look at this key player in the agricultural trade sector.

Endeavour Magazine | 11

AGRINET

To know how and why Agrinet is the force to be reckoned with that it is,

we need to go back, way back to 1950 and the first incarnation of what is now an industry giant.

V

etsak, which would go on to become Agrinet, is described as being; “…established by the primary co-operatives in the old

Transvaal and Free State as a central buying or secondary cooperative. The different primary co-operatives were established by farmers. All primary co-operatives were members of Vetsak.”

The main objective of this organisation was to find suitable products that would be easily distributed to shareholding stores, which in turn would supply farmers in the locality with everything they needed to continue their operations. Far from only supplying the requisite tooling and irrigation systems, Vetsak was also singlehandedly responsible for introducing the fiat tractor brand to South Africa, which would go on to be known as New Holland Tractors.

The company was doing and was heavy involved with numerous manufacturing initiatives, including; “…micro irrigation, assembling of tractors and trucks, tobacco curing, pipe, tanks, fencing material, farm chemicals and ground engagement parts.

During the early nineties, the focus of the business moved away from manufacturing and all such activities were disposed of or closed. Emphasis was on trade, specifically mechanisation, general merchandise and irrigation. Product was sourced locally and abroad.”

12 | Endeavour Magazine

With this dramatic about turn came new opportunities and in 1996, the central buying co-operative of the Western Cape, Boeresake, was absorbed into the Vetsak family. As a result, many of the primary co-operatives in the area willingly became members of Vetsak as well. The acquisition would prove to be a turning point for the company as just two short years later, the organisation was re-named Agrinet and that’s when things really started to take off!

Describing themselves as “…a wholesale distributor of industrial products, agricultural requisites and related products to retailers and industrial end-users in Sub-Saharan Africa”, it’s clear to see that success hasn’t gone to the company’s head and instead, a humble modesty has been maintained. This is often the case with organisations that have grown organically but never at the detriment of their clientele. For Agrinet, the end user always has and always will be a stern focus that keeps all other endeavours firmly in perspective. This is important when you consider the reach the company has; more than 500 agricultural retail developments located throughout South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. These numbers aren’t only impressive on paper either, as they translate to Agrinet being “a leading supplier of irrigation products and general industrial requisites on a wholesale level in the region.”

Endeavour Magazine | 13

AGRINET The question is, how does a grass roots company seek to stay

and reliable network of distribution to all towns and cities in

ahead of the competition and the answer is simple; by identifying

South Africa as well as to customers in neighbouring countries” is

‘core focus areas’ for the business and actively seeking to address

a main focus of the business and as such, has invested heavily in

them each and every day. We don’t think you’ll be surprised to

transportation infrastructure; “Agrinet operates from its head office

learn that Agrinet has a number of initiatives in place and despite

in Samrand, Gauteng with warehouses in Samrand and in Bellville

the relative simplicity of them; they are helping to keep the

in the Western Cape. Scheduled deliveries on the company’s own

organisation as a whole at the forefront of the industry.

fleet of trucks are done on a daily or weekly basis to almost every

Key amongst the ‘core focus areas’ is a determination to

town and city in the country.”

“maintain a well-defined and market driven product range”. Of

Thanks to a commitment to streamlining the online order

course, this makes sense in a competitive retail environment,

system, clients can rest assured that once they click ‘buy’, they will

but Agrinet makes this task look breathtakingly simple. With an

be receiving a high quality product within the shortest amount

impressive catalogue of more than 30,000 products, which are

of time possible. This directly leads us to the final focus point,

sourced both locally and from foreign markets, the company is

which is “to play a leading role in optimising the flow of business

able to offer clients access to a fantastically diverse e-commerce

and information in the chain of supply between the manufacturer

site. One thing that has never been overlooked, however, is the

and the retailer.” By looking to improve the integration of supply

importance of maintaining a balance between acceptable quality,

chain personnel, everybody can look forward to easy and profitable

diversity and price.

operations; something Agrinet has long enjoyed.

Naturally, it’s all very well offering over 18,000 products, but if

As we look to the future, there can be no doubting that

the availability is poor, customers will quickly look elsewhere for

Agrinet is set more even more greatness. With an eye firmly on

a reliable supply chain. Because of an inherent understanding of

diversification, which has seen the company widen their provision

the nature of the industry they support, Agrinet is able to boast of

net to include hardware, tools, electrical components, vehicle spares

an impressive 90%+ availability and has identified those products

and general agricultural supplies, not to mention both general and

that are most commonly demanded, so as to lower inventory levels

extremely specialist irrigation items, we don’t think there is any sign

and increase profitability. This is the kind of efficiency that many

of slowing down. In fact, we firmly believe that these are just the

organisations can only dream of, but it’s standard fare here!

first seeds being planted and that in a few short years, Agrinet will

Agrinet goes on to demonstrate that “providing an effective

14 | Endeavour Magazine

be reaping even more of what they sow; success.

Sales: (011) 825-1100 | Sales Fax: (011) 825-7428 Email: sales@lasher.co.za or exportsales@lasher.co.za or visit www.lasher.co.za or www.lasher.mobi or find us on facebook twitter pinterest

16 | Endeavour Magazine

BUILD IT WWW.BUILDIT.CO.ZA 0027 31 719 1759

CAN THEY BUILD IT? YES THEY CAN! WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

A division of the SPAR Group Limited, Build it is a forward thinking organisation that has quickly propelled itself to the very forefront of the hardware and building materials industry.

With that in mind, we took a closer look at the company’s unparalleled rise to prominence.

Endeavour Magazine | 17

BUILT IT BUILD

1984 was a good year for South Africa, as Build it launched

with a diminutive membership of just 20 rural retailers in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This was swiftly followed by a move inland in the 1990s and as growth and expansion continued to show promise, 2000 saw a monumental decision being made about the future of the company; it was taken national.

he decision to embrace the potential of the company proved

T

Build it focuses all of its activities around the building and

to be the turning point for Build it and in just five short years,

hardware industry, with a particular focus on the supply of

the number of independent retailers on board grew from a

provisions for basic urban house building, rural housing, township

steady 26 to an unbelievable 172. Though numbers speak volumes

houses and all levels of home improvement. With this in mind,

about success, so does geography and with going national came

there is broad scope for appealing to a wide variety of consumers

market coverage throughout the whole of South Africa, Lesotho,

including amateur DIY enthusiasts through to SMEs and professional

Namibia and Swaziland. The question is, what makes the franchise

contractors. Finally! A concrete and understandable reason for the

so popular that it is now in a position to be enjoying three decades

stratospheric rise to the top of the industry that Build it enjoys and

of success?

it’s the simplest one of all: appealing to everybody.

An untrained eye might assume that simply maintaining high

We’ve all heard the phrase ‘you can’t please all of the people all

quality standards and seeking to look after customers is enough,

of the time’, but we seem to have stumbled across a company that

but with a growth rate of 27% per year, there has to be more to

proves the adage totally wrong. With bottom to top comprehensive

the story. Looking at the target markets that the company seeks

building solutions on tap, Build it has cornered a market that will

to supply, we think the secret lies there, as a ‘bottom up’ approach

always be relevant. As long as there are people, they will need

is taken, with everything needed for building a house from

suitable housing and hence, the construction industry will need

foundations to roof being freely available.

supplies. This is a suitably shrewd business decision and one that

18 | Endeavour Magazine

BUILT IT BUILD

looks certain to ensure the continued success and growth of the

keeps customers loyal – great service and fantastic products. The

company.

only potential problem is market saturation. Whitmore addresses

Of course, such an organisation needs a commensurate staffing

this with a positive approach;

body to adequately handle the inevitable world takeover and

“The market’s very competitive and that’s increasing because of

thankfully, the one in situ is more than capable of shouldering the

the number of entrants coming into the market and those that have

responsibility of pleasing everyone all the time. With more than

come into the market recently. But it’s a big industry and there’s

8,000 staff split between 300 stores and managed by six regional

plenty of opportunity.”

offices, a central hub and an impressive distribution centre, Build it

What a refreshing attitude from the CEO of a hugely successful

is fantastically well positioned to continue striving for increasingly

operation. Instead of wanting to eliminate the competition, he

more impressive targets and accomplishments. An integral driving

acknowledges that there is enough room for everyone; so long as

force, however, is Ray Whitmore, CEO extraordinaire who has an

Build it remains the first choice, of course and this is going to be

impressive legacy with both SPAR and Build it.

guaranteed by the staff training and development that plays such

“I started in SPAR 30 years ago at SPAR Group. I’m a chartered

an important role in the company as a whole.

accountant and come from an auditing and accounting background.

A key player in an industry where product knowledge and

I moved to become Managing Director of one of the SPAR divisions

exemplar customer service is everything, Build it has taken its

in Cape Town and thereafter I’ve headed up Build it. I’ve been with

responsibility as an employee exceptionally seriously and makes

Built it for 15 years.”

sure to offer all staff access to a wealth of additional training,

Despite the impressive growth pattern that Build it has

including specialist leadership programmes, selling and product

demonstrated, the company is not one to simply sit back and hope

awareness courses and accredited first aid schemes. These training

that the good fortune continues. In fact, quite the opposite is true,

developments are not the only incentives on offer for employees

as the management team have a healthy grasp on what it is that

however, as yearly awards are given to those who have gone

Medal are passionate about adding value by supplying the highest quality, cost effective products through a comprehensive range of decorative and industrial paint, waterproofing, accessories and supporting products.

Their inspiration comes from nature and results in an extensive range of colours for your next project.

20 | Endeavour Magazine

beyond and above the call of duty. Whitmore acknowledges just

enjoyed and average 27% growth every year. With that in mind,

how vital the staffing contingent is to the success of the company;

there can be little doubt that we will be revisiting the company in

“These past 13 years have seen our store numbers grow

the near future to report on astounding profits and developments.

significantly. The foundation of this growth has been the huge

“We’ll continue to grow our existing business at a steady pace

commitment and teamwork from our retailers, suppliers and Build

and in terms of new products, it’s a continuous process – we’re

it staff.”

always looking at potential new products. One of the key elements

From fantastically solid foundations, provided by the body off committed staff members on board, Build it has become a steadfast companion to the construction industry and DIY enthusiasts alike, making it a brand that can be trusted.

moving forward, in terms of our current builder’s merchant business, is going to be looking at sustainable products to build houses.”

The key word in Whitmore’s declaration is sustainable. Far from a merely fashionable term, adopting a more eco approach is going

“As a team, with our retailers and suppliers, we have managed

to prove to be vital for any company hoping to maintain a good

to build a great brand. Our people, our retailers and suppliers; we’ve

foothold in the construction industry and it comes as no surprise

managed to grow and develop a fantastic brand from virtually

that an organisation as invested in helping local communities as it is

nothing in the last 30 years and for me, it’s been fantastic to be a

increasing its profit margins is already making headway.

part of it. It’s really a team effort.”

Looking to the future, we can’t wait to see what new initiatives

As South Africa continues to move towards a period of

and developments Build it embraces to stay ahead of the game

sustained economic growth, Build it is keen to take advantage of

and far beyond competitors, but we know one thing; they’ll be well

the good fortune, with even more development. “We were born in

considered, from foundation to finish.

a time of turmoil and we’ve created a strong brand with a platform for growth ahead of the market.” Commented Whitmore and it’s in light of such statements that we have to remember that Build it has

Endeavour Magazine | 21

22 | Endeavour Magazine

AL JABER ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION WWW.ALJABER.COM 00971 4 4290599

AL JABER SHAPES THE COUNTRY WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Many of the highest profile projects in the region have been completed through Al Jaber Group companies. For over 40 years, the famous red logo has been on site at landmark developments.

The very foundations of the UAE and surrounding areas are proudly marked with the Al Jaber crest!

Endeavour Magazine | 23

AL JABER ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION

From the start, the group’s founder, His Excellency Obaid Khaleefa

Jaber Al Murri, who is now the chairman, has led the company with vision and purpose. Creating a legacy and a reputation for energetic expansion and creative diversification, the Al Jaber Group is a family of companies who are all recognised as experts in their particular fields and while they are all able to take advantage of the company’s size and resources, all of the included companies rely first and foremost on their standards of practice and levels of expertise.

A

s a company, Al Jaber has become synonymous with the

Precast, specialists in civil and architectural precast. These in-house

famed

projects

capabilities, coupled with a team of approximately 9,800 staff and

embarked upon as the nation goes through its own dramatic

the support of the wider businesses of Al Jaber Group, has allowed

large-scale

infrastructure

construction

development.

ALEC to evolve into the contractor of choice across the GCC.

Al Jaber and Partners, based in Qatar, have been responsible

Having enjoyed tremendous growth over more than ten years,

for some of the landmark projects for which the globe has come

another factor for their success has been their strong market

to associate with the region and, importantly, not only are they

knowledge and alignment with Qatari market growth as well as

proficient at creating the kind of architectural heralds that come

keeping a keen eye on the country’s “Qatar National Vision 2030.”

to shape the horizon line but also for being amongst the safest infrastructure contractors in the country.

According to Al Murri, the group’s focus on their staff has been a defining factor to the business, “The continued success of any

Part of their strength comes from the support of three

business is wholly reliant on the calibre of your staff, workers and

established sister companies in Qatar; Deutsche Babcock Al Jaber

partners,” he explains, “When it comes to building something, be it

WLL, which serves the mechanical and electrical industrial service

a tower, airport or an infrastructure project, it is all built in steps.

market, Al Jaber Heavy Lift and Tansport LLC, one of the leading

The final product can be a catastrophe if one step is not completed

names in industrial contracting, transportation and trading and

to above standard. To ensure this you have to make sure that

Hamad Equipment and Trading Est, who serve the equipment

everyone working for and with you is not only experienced and

market as well as Al Jaber Projects. Additional support comes from

schooled but genuinely talented at what they do.”

Al Jaber Shipping and Marine, which from it’s base in Abu Dhabi

A family of businesses is a great way of describing the Al

supports all of the group companies logistically with a fleet of RO-

Jaber Group, as there is an ongoing philosophy of partnership to

RO landing craft and flat top barges.

achieve greatness. The company sees its clients as partners and

In addition to operating as a main contractor, ALEC has

that the success for both is a process with flows between the two.

established related businesses which complement its core

This belief is firmly ingrained and has led them to meet the most

activities; ALEMCO, an electromechanical services business; ALEC

complex challenges of modern engineering projects and to achieve

FITOUT that specialise in fit out and refurbishments and ALEC

their ultimate target of a satisfied and loyal customer.

24 | Endeavour Magazine

AL JABER ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION

Standing as a testament to this, the company’s achievements

systems, water drainage and effluent treatment plants, as well as

and its solid stance towards its core values, are the many awards

the design and build of utility tunnels and associated utilities within

that Al Jaber Group have been recognised with the world over and

these tunnels.

not only by the construction and engineering industry but also the

From its main 25,000 sqm workshop in Doha, which contains

organisations put in place to limit the negative toll that construction

a pre-cast yard of 10,000 sqm the company runs a fleet of some

can have on the environment.

2000 construction machines and heavy vehicles. Operating four

“The long term vision of any construction project is to have

asphalt and nine screening crushing plants, also located in Doha.

a harmony between ecology and economy,” Al Murri explains,

The prowess of this in-house factory, combined with a strict

“Achieving this balance takes efficient and fastidious planning.

process of contract evaluation, control and management means

Our aggressive scheduling, competitive pricing and strong work

that the Al Jaber Group are able to ensure health, safety, security,

ethos have enabled the company to gain respect as a contractor

environmental and quality management under their IMS (Integrated

with exceptional resources and support and allowed us to meet the

Management System) which meets all the requirements of ISO

most complex demands.”

9001;2008, ISO 14001: 2004 and OHSAS 18001: 2007.

Some projects that have set them apart are the celebrated

Success is measured by team performance and client

reclamation work on Pearl Qatar and the engineering landfill and

responsiveness, Al Murri explains, “Our first priority is not, however,

earthworks on New Doha International Airport; the construction

to the client, but to our staff,”

of a labour camp for Qatar Shell Pearl GTI and the challenging

He goes on to explain that particular attention has been

execution of Doha Expressway package 12, which was a new

given to the comfort of their employees, “We provide facilities

primary 87 km 6-8 carriageway route.

which include entertainment areas, sports fields, swimming pools,

The scope of their expertise extends through high profile construction, earthworks, sewerage and utility networks, irrigation

gymnasiums, Internet cafés and a praying area. All of this leads to the creation of a healthy, interpersonal environment.”

Your Formwork Partner

Lusail Commercial Boulevard Road A3 Tunnel

College of Pharmacy

An open front to Qatar’s 2022 Football World Cup Stadium

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www.delmongroup.net 26 | Endeavour Magazine

Contractor: Shapporji Pallonji

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Delmon’s scope is to design and supply of formwork and falsework system for an optimum performance in time to the entire project, such as 05 levels of massive transfer beams, suspended slabs, cantilever slabs, lift cores, stair walls, columns.

Some of our most innovative work and supply can be found on this.

Another example of Delmon’s expertise in meeting challenging construction goals was supplying formwork solution for the Lusail cooling plant.

Scope is to supply the whole cooling plant’s retaining wall formwork to exceed the requirement of the design and withstand the fresh concrete pressure of 80.0kN/m2.

Qatar University’s expansion project

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E-mail: qatar@delmongroup.net

The results of this internal employee focus has definitely paid

projects in this strategic market”.

off as this time last year Al Jaber Group announced that they had

One of these projects could be the recently won deal worth

been awarded the contract to develop the new airport in Abha,

Dhs2.57 billion to construct 40 residential buildings in the capital,

Saudi Arabia. A contract that was worth SAR1.8 billion ($490

which will include the construction of 1,920 residential units for the

million).

staff of state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in Ruwais.

With work still underway, the project includes a new passenger

“In 1970, we started Al Jaber Group with a primary focus on

terminal covering an area of 86,000 square metres that was

the construction sector. This vision was to compliment the great

built to accommodate around five million passengers annually.

economic boom of Abu Dhabi during that period by creating a

Also included are 20 passenger boarding bridges, an apron for

professional company that would be capable of executing all sorts of

planes to park and parallel corridors to accommodate 26 planes

infrastructure and construction projects,” Al Murri explains, “Since

simultaneously. Scheduled to take 36 months to complete, the

the establishment of Al Jaber Group, we have always regarded the

airport will offer a car park capable of accommodating 2,800 cars.

safety of our people and diversity as the key success factors for

“Al Jaber Group KSA branch is witnessing substantial growth

sustainable growth. We have invested in the latest technologies,

since we started our operations in Riyadh last year,” said Al Murri

built a platform of industries, and launched shipping, transport and

at the time of the announcement, “We were able to compete and

heavy lifting entities to support our growing Construction Division.

win sizable projects mainly the Abha Airport development project.”

After 44 years of success and incredible achievements, we

With the airport development firmly under way the group

remain committed to our vision of being a leader in all our activities

have their eyes on a number of new projects in the Kingdom Al

and grateful to the Rulers and Government of Abu Dhabi for their

Murri revealed, “We are looking at winning more projects in the

confidence and support shown in Al Jaber Group.”

Saudi market in the near future. Al Jaber Group is well positioned to benefit from the increased momentum in the launch of new

Endeavour Magazine | 27

28 | Endeavour Magazine

GOLF DATA WWW.GOLFDATA.CO.ZA 0027 21 851 2193

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN BUSINESS AND LEISURE WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Bridging the gap between professional landscaping and leisure, The GD Group are responsible for keeping the golfing vistas and green belts on residential estates that businessmen, leisure seekers and professional golfers use, in the immaculate state that they are renowned for.

Founded by passionate golfer Robbie Marshall in 1989, GD Group has since become a recognised and highly valued entity in the international world of golfing. Endeavour Magazine caught up with marketing director Sean Pienaar to discuss.

Endeavour Magazine | 29

GOLF DATA

“You can’t speak about GD Group without speaking about our founder and Chairman, Robbie Marshall,” Sean explains, “He made a career in green keeping and then left that career to focus on starting a landscaping company that he ultimately sold so that he could focus on Golf Data.”

S

ean explains that whilst their focus as a company, at the outset, was about golf courses, they have also never truly left their landscaping roots. The main difference between today

and 26 years ago is the scale and intricacy of their projects, “But the passion to push the bar in the industry has never changed.” He adds.

Industry wise, GD Group is a golf and landscaping orientated company whose expertise also lends to civil construction and earthworks and while historically they have been predominantly focussed in South Africa, they have also engaged in work as far afield as Saudi Arabia.

According to Sean, who speaks with great passion regarding the company, the easiest way to describe GD Group is to say there are two divisions; golf courses and landscaping.

“There are a number of synergies between the two,” he says, “Both of these divisions focus on design, construction and maintenance contracts within their own spheres. Inherent but perhaps not obvious in those spheres is civil construction and earthmoving, which we do in-house as well.”

GD Group also own a golf course called the Wedgewood Golf Club on the Wedgewood Golf & Country Estate in Port Elizabeth and this has aided them in growing into the golf course management sphere as well, this is a new service offering from golf data and has the potential to add significant value to certain clients.

30 | Endeavour Magazine

Club house

STARTING FROM

R995 000

Artist impression

18 Hole golf course features 9 magnificent dams

Wedgewood is so much more than a golf estate; it is a way of life. If you love the outdoors, you will love Wedgewood.

The estate offers a number of adventure options. Grab your fishing gear and take an afternoon off to fish in one of the nine magnificent dams. Shop at the monthly food market, get on your mountain bike or go for a jog or stroll in the aweinspiring surrounds of the estate. The young at heart are catered for with tennis courts, swimming pools and entertainment centre whilst over 60’s immediately qualify for access to the exclusive community centre and nursing assistance.

WEDGEWOOD LIFESTYLE VILLAGE AND GOLF ESTATE IS WHERE YOU BUY YOUR FOREVER HOME

KOBIE POTGIETER 082 771 2578 www.remax.co.za

Wedgewood Golf Club Proudly Owned & Operated by Golf Data

GOLF DATA MANAGEMENT With a head office in Somerset West outside of Cape Town and satellite offices in Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth, GD Group employs approximately 650 people. As noted above, one of the major differences in the company in recent years is the scale of work that they have the capacity to deliver on; in 2015 they finalised a number of projects including a full course reconstruction at Randpark Golf Course in Johannesburg, an extensive greens renovation at The Country Club Johannesburg – Woodmead and completed the most extensive on course practice facility at any club in South Africa at Leopard Creek alongside the Kruger Park, “Additionally, we completed a vast amount of hard and soft landscaping at the Steyn City development where we also built the Nicklaus Design course.”

In order to achieve the completion of these projects, Sean reveals that the company has built up a fair sized fleet of their own heavy plant machinery, as well as seeing a number of their employees, who have been with them for many years, take on management roles. Additionally they have also had to employ

services that GD Group does, but he feels that there is something that makes the business particularly unique and special: “I think the fact that we are a family run business and the ethos of the family is central to our business is unique,” he says, “The vast majority of our competition are part of large corporates who are mostly listed companies and whilst that gives those companies some advantages, it also means that we have the twofold advantage of being close to our key staff and being a bit more nimble as a business.”

Unconstrained by policies, procedures, hierarchies and set business models they are able to make the decisions that need to be make quickly, without having unnecessary sit down meetings and time wasting discussions. Further to this, the senior staff at GD Group are encouraged to be entrepreneurial and creative in delivering real value to their clients.

“Creativity and drive are characteristics that are sought out and fostered in our team,” he says.

THE GOLFING AND LEISURE INDUSTRY

specific skill sets from outside of their ranks in order to meet the

The most common sentiment about the golf industry is that it

demands they face to deliver detailed course and landscape design

is in decline, but Sean explains that what they have been seeing is

and horticultural expertise.

that there are a number of proactive courses, who, whilst facing

Sean admits that there are other companies that offer similar

32 | Endeavour Magazine

difficulties, have actually come out stronger and are re-investing

GOLF DATA in their courses, remaining current and are generating really good

the idea. The environmental issues surrounding golf are not going

revenues. “Perhaps it is safer to say that the industry, which is

to go away and we accept that we are responsible for mitigating

a notoriously conservative one, is in a state of flux and all the

potential environmental impacts from concept and design stages,

stakeholders in the industry are having to rethink long held beliefs,”

through to construction and maintenance. “

he tells us.

One positive that Sean is seeing coming out of this is that

From the perspective of both course and landscape

their clients, golfers and users of landscaped areas are not only

construction, the main driver of these services is the residential

accepting, but rather expecting there to be rehabilitated natural

property developments and there are certainly signs that in some

areas; sensitive patches that they can view but may not enter and

areas, this is starting to pick up again after a long dry spell post

strategic use of water resources (just as examples) and so it is

2008.

quite possible that the challenge of being more environmentally

Both golf and landscapes face very real sustainability challenges outside of the economic aspects of sustainability as well. Social and

pro-active may also prove to be one of the key opportunities to differentiate and excel in the industry.

environmental issues are very relevant, especially in a society such as South Africa with a history of a large gap between those who have and those who do not. Additionally, for historical reasons

THE STAFF AT GD GROUP

the game in South Africa has been predominantly white and male

Golf is all about the experience of the game and the highest

and the industry has to be creative in its attempt to attract a more

standards. Sean holds no illusions as to where their standard comes

diverse group of participants.

from and how to get the very best out of their contingent of some

“In our capacity as contractors, this is perhaps slightly less

650 staff.

relevant to us than the environmental issues and it is here that we

“We are very demanding about the standards we expect of

have had to work very hard,” he tells us, “We have been fortunate to

our staff,” he says, “There are few industry “standards” as such in

work with clients who are dedicated to finding solutions and doing

what we do, but we are very fortunate to have had incredibly low

the right thing environmentally and not just paying lip service to

staff turnover in all our 26 years and so our staff have learnt from

34 | Endeavour Magazine

GOLF DATA numerous world experts in niche areas such as design, course and

Some of these projects are dotted around Africa and to deliver

landscape shaping, agronomy and horticulture and drainage.”

our product to an African client outside of South Africa is a very

This knowledge is passed on to more and more staff in the

exciting prospect indeed.”

company as they involve themselves in ever more projects and it

Steyn City has been a prominent project, as Sean reveals, thanks

is in this way that the staff develop for the most part. To facilitate

to it re-establishing GD Group as a major player in the landscaping

greater learning and personal growth, we do offer very attractive

industry and not just the golf course industry. It has also proven

policies regarding formal studies to staff that show dedication

to to be enough of a challenge that their landscape design and

and promise, as well as ongoing training to all levels of staff in the

installation capabilities continue to grow, thereby affecting their

company.”

growth in the market. Whereas, The Leopard Creek practice facility

“Individual staff development is absolutely central to our business,” he emphasises, “We believe we produce the best people in the industry and that is what we strive to do. This also forms a key differentiator from our competition. We are people focussed.”

is just so exceptional that having it on their list of completed projects alone is a great accolade.

“Long-term, the best thing about these projects is the ongoing opportunity to continue building relationships and proving our capabilities outside of our borders. This opens up a number of

CUSTOMERS AND GUESTS As a family run business, personal relationships are part and parcel of what GD Group does; every senior member of Golf Data is accountable to their clients and they have a policy of not directing blame to individual employees. Theirs is a team effort and Sean insists that they go the extra mile on every project to make sure that their clients are satisfied.

“It’s a simple strategy,” he elaborates, “We consistently do what we have always done; develop top notch people, keep them and as a team, produce the best value and quality product.”

2016 This year is set to be such a busy one for GD Group; the Steyn City development has been a key project for the company for a number of years now.

“We built their Nicklaus Design course, which is our 7th Nicklaus course to date and we did all of their landscaping,” Sean tells us. As it turns out this was an enormously ambitious development and looks set to become a landmark in SA. “Whilst we have delivered a great deal at this development already, there is still a vast amount of work to be done,” he says, “we look forward to furthering our relationship there and continuing to deliver world class landscaping services.”

Then there was the Leopard Creek Practice Facility. GD Group were asked to provide a “world class” practice facility (if the accounts of the tour professionals who utilised the facility at the recent Dunhill event there are to be believed, they certainly delivered).

“We have no doubt that this practice facility raises the bar for practice facilities for any course that we know of, bar none,” Sean states.

“We have a number of projects that are on the cusp of giving us the green light,” he says, “Each and every one of these is very exciting for us and each one feels like a beautiful rough diamond that we cannot wait to polish for its owners to unlock its potential.

36 | Endeavour Magazine

opportunities for us and will allow us to take advantage of our world class project management capabilities.” He wraps up.

38 | Endeavour Magazine

CLEVELAND MINING WWW.CLEVELANDMINING.COM.AU 0061 8 6389 6000

BUILDING UP AND DIGGING DOWN WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS

With a reputation for building successful projects from the ground up, Cleveland Mining LTD is an Australian-managed, ASX-listed minerals company focussed squarely on developing projects into mines. They are also a result of a unique approach to project selection ensuring that they are always fit to weather the worst storms.

Endeavour Magazine | 39

CLEVELAND MINING

The trick to Cleveland Mining is that they select projects according

to their likelihood of generating returns at the bottom of the economic cycle. This has shaped the company into a stringent and fastidious force to be reckoned with, where quality overcomes quantity in every facet and as stated on their website, the company’s management have successfully led high profile projects across the world and this experience positions the company to acquire quality projects and develop them with speed, stability, sustainability and profitability.

C

leveland focuses on mining commodities, not mining the

smooth bureaucratic processes to enable swift examination,

share market and this means that activities are centred on

construction and mining coupled with low taxation rates, where

developing and mining robust resources at the lowest price.

repatriation of capital is allowed. Professional, skilled and semi-

In other words, these deposits must be cheap to mine and

skilled personnel are readily available, as is the source of necessary

should offer potential for profits at the bottom of the commodity

equipment. It is a country that is strongly regarded as the next

price cycle. This strategy maximises the certainty of return on

boom area in mining and its sovereign risk rating is excellent

investment and minimises the risks associated with commodity

with constitutional amendments in 1995 providing a landmark in

cycles.

Brazilian mining legislation by granting foreign companies the right

This requires a lot of research and assessment to be applied to every project before anything is entered into. This includes

to hold majority ownership in Brazilian projects and equality of fiscal and economic treatment.

local infrastructure, energy costs, legislative framework, royalties systems, sovereign risk and access to labour.

Considered planning and forethought have become a consequential label of Cleveland Mining, who were established in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis when many investors were reducing their investments because of a contracting market and Cleveland seized the opportunities that arose. What their unique approach has enabled them to offer is access to first class projects, personnel and equipment, reduced construction time and costs and an ability to establish low operating cost bases.

While accountancy may not be the most glamorous aspect of a business, a surefooted approach is always preferred when looking at the bottom line.

BRAZIL

CRIXAS GOLD HUB, CENTRAL BRAZIL A shining pot of potential, the Crixas Gold Hub is significant for a number of reasons. Not only was it a safe, mining-friendly area with a 20,000 person mining/farming town close by with cheap hydro-generated power available on site, but it also provided an under developed/high prospective greenstone belt that was able to achieve gold production in a very short time.

The Company’s most advanced project in the Crixás Gold Hub is the Premier Gold Mine JV, where gold production has commenced.

Here, a cluster of nearby exploration projects within the Hub may, in time, provide further tonnages to the Premier mill, with the O Capitão gold project planned for processing at Premier Mine.

Access to infrastructure, mine services, contractors and labour in the project area is very good, with the ‘mining town’ of Crixás

Cleveland’s initial focus is on Brazil because it offers excellent

being walking distance from the Premier tenements and the

mineral potential with the added benefits of low labour and energy

national capital, Brasilia and the state capital, Goiania, are 260km

costs, attractive sounding mining legislation and comparatively

and 270km away respectively.

40 | Endeavour Magazine

CLEVELAND MINING

PREMIER OLD MINE JV Commercial production of gold at the Premier Gold Mine started in late 2012. Production of between 10,000 and 20,000 ounces per annum was anticipated for the Stage 1 plant and the

resources through further drilling and possible acquisition of other gold projects held in the immediate region

HOW IS THE PROJECT GOING?

addition of chemical processing, doubling the capacity of the plant

Work commenced at Cleveland’s 50:50 JV Premier Mine in

and higher-grade throughput from the O Capitão project was

late 2012, which was just over 3 years ago, after they acquired the

expected to double production.

project which was formerly known as Meia Petaca from the Goias

Today, frequent gold pours are being made after the original

state Government who had mined the location over 30 years. Over

targeted production was between 10koz and 20koz in first year of

the three years following this acquisition, Cleveland has conducted

full production. Estimated operating C1 costs stand at ≈$400 per

a small drilling programme that delineated a resource of 89,000oz

ounce after the introduction of chemical processing and the start of

and constructed a processing plant capable of producing between

mining at the Premier underground and the O Capitão project and

10 and 20 thousand ounces per annum. Luckily, the plant design

≈89koz Indicated Resource delineated through small drill program.

allows for rapid expansion to match any growth in the rate of

Excellent near-mine exploration potential exists and two gold

mining and the size of the resource.

bearing mineralised areas identified at the Company’s O Capitão

Premier is located approximately 800m from AngloGold

project. Applications are underway to mine at O Capitão and

Ashanti’s Serra Grande Mine, from where over 3 million ounces

process the material at Premier, less than 10km away.

have already been mined, a further 1.186 million ounces remain

Stage 2 commenced in 2014 and included the introduction of

and significant gold discoveries continue to be made. Cleveland

higher-grade material from Premier and O Capitão, such as the

believes that the Premier tenements also hold excellent potential for

addition of cyanide (February) and flotation circuits to increase

further multi-million ounce deposits. Cleveland intends to increase

recovery to from 60% to 90%. Stage 3 involves the expansion of

the resource through near-mine drilling as well as exploration of

42 | Endeavour Magazine

the O Capitão project, when two gold-bearing orebodies have been identified.

Cleveland is targeting operating C1 costs of about $400 per ounce after the introduction of chemical processing of ore. The Company are mining higher-grade ore from the O Capitão project.

According to reports released to the TSX by AngloGold Ashanti, the first 17 years of production at Serra Grande had costs of less than $200/oz. In 2001, 134,000oz of gold were mined from Serra Grande at a cash cost of US$767/oz.

The most advanced project in the Crixás Hub, the Premier Project, is expected to produce between 10,000 and 20,000 ounces per year to begin. As significant exploration potential exists both at Premier and at Cleveland’s other projects, the plant at the Premier Gold Mine has been designed for expansion. Mining began in September of 2012, after eight months of construction and the mine was built without incurring debt.

The Premier Mine is expected to provide Cleveland with a strong foundation for growth, providing the Company with both cash flow and an opportunity to build the teams, experience, systems, culture and track record of success that will lead to bigger projects.

Endeavour Magazine | 43

44 | Endeavour Magazine

ENAP WWW.ENAP.CL 0056 22280 3000

ENERGISING THE FUTURE WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

With Chile importing almost three quarters of its energy supply, it was only a matter of time before something would have to change; that’s where ENAP comes in. We took an in depth look at the company that looks set to bring new opportunities and possibilities to Chile in 2016.

Endeavour Magazine | 45

ENAP

With 2016 already firmly underway, one thing is clear; ENAP is not

going to sit around and hope for good results, it’s going to guarantee them.

Things have gotten off to a fantastic start, with the announcement of a new Director, Bernadita Piedrabuena.

aking over from Fidel Miranda Bravo, Bernadita is well

T

We see so many companies claiming to be deeply invested

positioned to offer fresh eyes and new experience to the role,

in not only their own profitability, but also the sustainability of

alongside her impressive pedigree, which includes a degree in

the environment and continued development of surrounding

Business Administration, majoring in Economics, as well as a PhD

communities, but it’s still refreshing to come across one that holds

in Economics. But what kind of company is she joining? ENAP

up their end of the bargain. But that’s what ENAP is all about;

describes itself as;

helping Chile to become better, more self-sufficient and a good

“An integrated energy Company, 100% owned by the State of Chile, leader in hydrocarbons, which provides products and services

deal more fiscally sound. Therein lies the benefit of companies staying true to their roots.

that meet the needs of customers and contribute to the sustainable

Following the discovery of the first Chilean oil well in

development of countries and communities in which it is inserted,

December 1945, the Government set up Empresa Nacional del

operating in a competitive and profitable way.”

Petróleo, which enjoyed official establishment in June 1950. With

So far so good and when you couple this modest overview

potential for commercial gain firmly proven, Eduardo Simian Gallet

with the underlying vision of what the company hopes to achieve,

recommended that ENAP, as we now know it, be created. The

you really have the makings of an impressive and forward thinking

company explained their fast rise to success;

giant. The vision states;

“One of the first targets of the newly born company was to

“To ensure a supply of energy competitive in both price and

create an oil refining plant in the country, achieved in 1954 with

quality; to have our customers’ preference; to position ourselves

the start-up of Concón Oil Refinery (today Aconcagua Refinery).

as leaders in commercial operations and logistics, working with

In 1959 the first logistic facilities for storage and distribution

the highest levels of efficiency and reliability in compliance with

of refined fuels were built in Maipú, and the following year the

the highest standards on safety and prevention of accidents and

Gregorio maritime terminal was built in Magallanes.

incidents, all of which is carried out by a competent, collaborative

Cullen Gasoline Plant (Magallanes) started operating in 1962,

and engaged team. To be recognised as a leading company in

and continued in 1966 with the opening of the second refining plant

sustainable development, respectful of the communities where it is

in the country in the Eighth Region, today Bío Bío Refinery, and the

inserted and valued by its concern for the environment.”

construction of a multiple purpose pipeline from this Refining Plant

46 | Endeavour Magazine

60 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

Nicolaides S.A. is a company dedicated to meeting the varied needs of its clients by providing the best technologies and products available worldwide, accompanied by exceptional technical assistance.

Congratulations to ENAP for 70 years in contributions to energy development in Chile. We are committed to stand by their side, facing new challenges together.

Visit www.nicolaides.cl - Avda. El Cortijo No 2410, ConchalĂ­ - Santiago Email: ventas@nicolaides.cl Tel: 56-2-23520000

ENAP

to San Fernando, in the Sixth Region. From this city, this pipeline

the country, and provides oil and port logistic services to important

connects with another managed by Sonacol, which transfers fuels

customers operating in the energy sector. Also, during the last

to the Storage Plant located in Maipú, in the Metropolitan Region.”

two years it has started a strong exploratory campaign of new gas

You would be right to assume that such an auspicious start

reservoirs in Magallanes, and established new alliances with other

could only lead to great things and it’s true, as the 1980s brought

companies in order to diversify the energy sources in the country.”

about perfect diversification opportunities that would go on to

Now, think back to the original aim of the company. It was set

lead to even more commercial success;

up in order to prevent the reliance on imported energy sources

“In 1981 ENAP entered the logistic business, with storage

that saw three quarters of all resources entering from outside of

plants for liquid and gas fuels in Maipú, San Fernando and Linares.

Chile. This might seem like a relatively modest and humble aim, but

Currently, this activity is carried out through the Storage and Oil

thanks to a focus on that mission, so much more has been taken

Pipelines Department, which is a part of Enap Refinerías S.A.

on board. Exploration and production of hydrocarbons is just one

On January 1st, 2004, the refining plants merged into one company: Enap Refinerías S.A.

facet now, with refining, transportation, storage and marketing all having been taken on. Not only that, these activities are no longer

In 1990, ENAP established Sociedad Internacional Petrolera

limited to only Chile, as Argentina and Egypt are also operational

S.A., to explore and exploit hydrocarbon deposits abroad. This

locations. Never one to forget where it has come from and why,

subsidiary changed its name to Enap Sipetrol S.A. in 2005.”

however, the ENAP head office is still located in Santiago.

Such a fantastic rise to the top of their industry has not been

Looking ahead to 2016 and beyond, there are a number of

easy, but the struggles have been worth it and the company can

fantastic new energy projects in the metaphorical and literal

now state, with authority, that; “In the Magallanes area, ENAP

pipeline! From natural gas through to geothermal energy and

exploits the only hydrocarbon deposits with a commercial value in

biofuels, if it can provide reliable and efficient energy to the people

Our experience and track record have enabled us to grow to be the company we are today – a modern and visionary company that adapts to changing times, positioning ourselves as leaders in the industry.

Congratulations to ENAP on its 70th anniversary!

48 | Endeavour Magazine

of Chile, ENAP is looking into and investing in it. This goes far beyond self-interest; this is making a promise to the people of Chile and resolutely keeping it by any means possible.

Moving into 2016 with positivity and heritage behind them, ENAP is embracing the future fresh from celebrating the 70th anniversary of the discovery of oil in Magallanes. In a ceremony attended by the Mayor, Jorge Flies, as well as the ENAP CEO, Marcelo Tokman, those staff members celebrating 25,30, 35, 40 and even 45 years with the company were recognised for their efforts and encouraged, by Tokman, to continue to trust in the promising future ahead; “We have taken these great challenges properly, not only for the region of Magallanes, but for the whole country. We continue to work every day to strengthen ENAP, make it stronger, financially sustainable, competitive and efficient, aiming at a model of responsible relationship with our neighbouring communities. In short, we want to be a company projected into the future, with clear objectives and a long term vision, focusing on people, communities and the environment.�

In addition to this, Ramiro Parra, manager of ENAP Magallanes

Endeavour Magazine | 49

HARD WORK, DEDICATION AND RESULTS...

TO MEET OBJECTIVES AND GOALS. ING-COMP.COM is a high quality worldwide services and product supplier company within the Latin America market since 1995, and part of the Chilean based Omega Group Holding.

The company goals are working on clients Industrial Services and Products neccesities and requirements Among the company-owned enterprises and other represented, are: L&J Techonologies, with their owned-enterprises specialized in high precision, engineering and automation; with monitoring, metering, management and manufacturing process control brands. To name a few:

Omega Group also has shares of Sensotec, a manufacturing company specialized in temperature sensors and transmitters, and also being representative of several industrial-leading companies.

In specific aplication products, ingenierĂ­a y computaciĂłn, counts with specialized valves such as the double bleed and purge valve; level, pressure, humidity and process automation metering, transmission and control equipment.

Providing a comprehensive service and engineering processes, ING-COMP.COM also is a distributor for the Latin American market of switches, power and control cable, electric supplies and accesories, engines and fuses of several prestigious electrical equipment brands.

ING-COMP.COM are throughout Latin America, with headquarters in USA and Chile, where the distribution of Oil & Gas, Mining, Pulp, Cementing, Steel among other industrial sectors product.

Now that you know Omega Group , we invite you to let us know your requirements and request through our website: www.ing-comp.com, and our nearest local office:

ENAP

commented; “It is exciting to participate in the celebration of

necessary, with each worker taking on board the importance of

ENAP’s 70thAnniversary just after I have joined the company,

self-care. In a bid to show support to the union, Jorge Figueroa

and it is important to be able to continue working together with

commented that;

the employees, with the society, protecting the environment and

“…in these 70 years, we should mention those pioneers who,

integrating everything. Our main challenges ahead are to make our

with great effort, perhaps even superhuman, began the journey to

company profitable and sustainable over time, and write the second

build the ENAP of today and tomorrow, which should be based on

part of the story, which is important to know, but also look into the

solid foundations such as the safety of both the people and the

future as the pioneers did: we must see how to build this future.”

facilities. The relationship with the communities today is not an

Despite jubilant celebrations, the people that directly

option, we must include our neighbours in the development of

contributed t his milestone were far from overlooked. Jorge Fierro,

our company, the environment, because today we cannot work in

voice of the union, stressed that;

this area as we did before and certainly, people are ENAP’s most

“The workers of ENAP are part of the culture and history of

important capital. “

this company, and we are who brought forward ENAP. To recognise

It’s one thing for workers to be able to stand up and appreciate

the trade union movement strengthens the development of this

the impact they have had on the success of the company they

company of all Chileans, where the will of the administration, the

have pledged allegiance to, but it is quite another for prominent

work of the federation and the drive of the Government, allows us

leadership figures to acknowledge it too. It is with little surprise

to conquer achievements as important as the expansion of the line

that we see important industry figures within ENAP making public

of business, opening a third business line and empowering ENAP in

declarations of thanks to their team, as what else could you expect

the electricity generation. When we recognise ourselves among all

from such a forward thinking and progressive operation?

the actors, we are able to do great things.”

He went on to iterate that a focus on safety culture was

52 | Endeavour Magazine

At last, the future truly is bright and all because ENAP has switched on the light and promised to keep it shining.

Transportes y Servicios Eugenio Vilicic Peña y Cía., Ltda., desde 1971 aportando al desarrollo de la Región de Magallanes y Antártica Chilena.

El trabajo ininterrumpido y la constante reinversión, nos llevan a crear la División de Cargas Especiales, participando en los principales proyectos que la industria de Minería e Hidrocarburos, ha ejecutado en la región.

A la Fecha, hemos ejecutado un total de 502 servicios de DTM para las empresas ENAP, GEO-PARK, QUINTANA WELL PRO, PANAMERICAN ANGLO ENERGY, SOUTHERN CROSS, PETREX, PETRO MAGALLANES Y ENERCO. Participamos transversalmente y de manera mancomunada con nuestros clientes, a través de toda la Cadena de Valor de la Industria.

Sitio 2, Barrio Industrial. Punta Arenas, Chile. Mail: contacto@tev.cl

54 | Endeavour Magazine

BOSKALIS WWW.BOSKALIS.COM 0065 6733 5622

AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

Considered to be one of the leading maritime services companies in the world, Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V has an industry-leading handle on a diverse range of sectors. We took a closer a look at this inspirational company, to see what drives their continued success.

Endeavour Magazine | 55

BOSKALIS

With diversification fast becoming one of the major buzzwords in the business world, it can’t come as too much of a surprise that an organisation as globally recognised and respected as Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V (Boskalis) has its fingers in many pies.

I

n fact, this giant of the maritime services industry lists operating

to identify their key clientele and gear their services towards not

in the dredging and inland infrastructure, as well as offshore

only them, but the standards they bring with them to any contract

energy sectors as just two of its main interests. The company

negotiation. It’s becoming crystal clear exactly why Boskalis enjoys

confirms that it is enormously active and represented in both the

the levels of success that it does.

energy and ports markets, but what does this really mean?

PORTS ENERGY

An undeniable increase in world trading has lead to a direct

With oil and gas companies increasing demand for services

need for increased port infrastructure and with years of experience

in order to keep up with an ever-increasing population, new

at the helm, there is nobody better placed or more competent to

infrastructure projects are guaranteed. Becoming a linchpin in the

undertake such projects than Boskalis. Their main activities within

sector, Boskalis offers a wealth of fully integrated services, which

the sector include construction and maintenance of infrastructure,

include engineering, land reclamation, construction, transportation,

encompassing reclaiming harbour islands and land, dredging and

rock fragmentation and trenching. Far from shying away form

erecting breakwaters. Similarly to the oil and gas sector, the clients

extra responsibility, the company also offers project management,

offering Boskalis contracts are of an impressive stature:

planning, maintenance, pilotage and even firefighting services. The company states that; “Our customers in the oil and gas market segment are national

“Our clients in the Ports market segment are port authorities, large private parties and shipping companies.”

They go on to confirm;

and international oil and gas companies. They demand the highest

“We are also able to build quay walls, bridges, tunnels, container

performance standards from contractors, which is why we

terminals, berths, piers and jetties. Our port services include

work with state-of-the-art equipment, ensure stringent quality

assistance to incoming and outgoing vessels (harbour towage).”

monitoring and work to the highest safety standards. We achieve

With such a range of activities to tackle, it is only right that

excellent performance standards and have the ability to deliver

the company has a bank of expertly trained staff to rely on and

projects according to strict deadlines.”

that is most definitely the case, with an employee count in excess

It’s hard to argue with a team that has clearly taken the time 56 | Endeavour Magazine

of 8,500. Fulfilling clients’ needs in more than 75 countries, over

Endeavour Magazine | 57

BOSKALIS

six continents, it is obvious why so many employees are necessary.

the standard by which Boskalis aims to be measured, then we can’t

Add to that the impressive fleet that Boskalis commands and a

help but wonder how hard competitors have to work, just to stay

team of reliable staff quickly becomes the most important asset to

within the same arena.

an organisation.

Regardless of previous or current market victories, there comes a point that the future has to be considered and with this in mind,

FLEET

is the maritime services industry, if you’ll excuse the pun, buoyant?

Here comes that buzzword again; Boskalis has embraced

The simple answer is yes, as the forces driving demand show no

diversification when it comes to their fleet, meaning that they have,

sign of slowing down. Energy consumption, global trade, world

to hand, an impressive array of in the region of 1,000 vessels that

population and climate change are all major contributing factors to

can be deployed at a moments notice. They comment:

the increase in maritime services demand and as we all know, these

“Because cost leadership is essential to our competitive position, the optimisation and standardisation of our fleet is a continuous process whereby we not only invest in new builds, but also ensure that the fleet is kept technically shipshape.

are not issues that are going to dissipate in our lifetime, as they are all so intrinsically linked.

As more people join the planet, so too will energy consumption rise. From here, climate change continues to be a very real and

Boskalis is certified under the International Safety Management

present danger and global trade will increase in a bid to meet new

(ISM) Code. A Plant Management System compliant with this code

consumer demand. Unless the cycle breaks, things will continue as

has been introduced to ensure optimum deployment of our ships.”

they are and the links between all the separate factors seem to be

Call us uninformed, but we don’t see anything ‘standard’ about

made of impenetrable materials, which is good news for Boskalis.

a company being able to boast of a veritable armada that consists

In terms of growing and moving into the future, Boskalis is not

of dredgers, offshore vessels, floating sheerlegs, pontoons and

simply resting on its laurels and is, instead, actively seeking out new

barges, tugs and a host of specialist equipment to boot! If this is

opportunities to secure its position as a global leader. To this end,

58 | Endeavour Magazine

GLOBAL HYDRAULICS PTE LTD 115 Neythal Road, Singapore 628 602 Tel: +65 6265 0126, Fax: +65 6265 6052 Email: globalhydraulics@globalhydraulics.com.sg Web: www.globalhydraulics.com.sg

it has recently acquired a market leader in the German dredging sector, to the tune of €70m. We look forward to seeing how this acquisition contributes to the success of the organisation.

Boskalis is the perfect example of how when you think big, you

Our Services Troubleshooting, Repair and Servicing of Marine/Offshore Deck Hydraulic Equipment, Electro-Pneumatic Control Systems Industrial and Construction Hydraulic Equipments

get big results and it operates with a positive outlook; “At the presentation of our first half-year results we indicated that utilisation and operating margins would be lower in the second half of the year after an exceptionally busy first half of the year. The picture in the third quarter is in line with this expectation.

The Board of Management expects that market developments in the rest of the year will remain challenging, barring unforeseen circumstances.”

If the ambitions and plans of the management team at Boskalis is anything like the size of their felt, we shouldn’t be expecting big things from them in 2016, we can rely on colossal results coming to fruition.

Recovery/ Lifting Hydraulic Winches

Custom Built Marine & Offshore Cranes

Dealers Distributor for for Stanley Tungum Alloy Underwater Instrumentation Hydraulic Tubing Tools/ Rail Maintenance

Authorised Service Provider for Rig Jacking Systems

Endeavour Magazine | 59

60 | Endeavour Magazine

BMW SOUTH AFRICA WWW.BMW.CO.ZA 0027 12 522 3000

BMW CARS ARE CRAFTED WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

While there is no denying the presence of BMW on the road, the people responsible for crafting these fine examples of automobile machinery are the real source of the magic. A BMW is definitely a combination of high quality parts and high quality workmanship and so the company had to be very deliberate in where it based itself when it moved beyond the borders of Germany.

Endeavour Magazine | 61

BMW SOUTH AFRICA

In 1973, South Africa was selected as the base for the first BMW

base of operations outside of Germany and nobody could have predicted the success that was primed to follow. Within three years the demand for vehicles has outstripped the supply and BMW was firmly recognised as the leading manufacturer of high-performance luxury passenger cars in the country. Since then the success has only continued with the Rosslyn plant producing over 80,000 BMWs every year.

S

outh African built cars are exported all around the world with 3-Series sedans that have been born in this country appearing on roads in USA, Canada, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong,

Singapore and Australia. Employing over 3,500 people with 2,400 of them situated in Rosslyn the legendary demand for these vehicles requires three shifts a day, seven days a week, just to keep up.

One of the key factors for the success has been the company’s total immersion into the country and its communities. Tapping into the values of its people and looking after its employees has made BMW an employer of choice and one of the best to work for in the country.

During the breakup of Apartheid, the BMW Group were one of the first pioneering companies to take measures against racial segregation, job discrimination and unjust compensation and have striven, through good and bad to provide jobs for the people.

Today with the recent political issues found with the lacklustre Government, BMW’s approach to remedy the situation is to further invest in staff and to take things a step further and invest into the education of children and the support of schools.

Bodo Donauer, BMW South Africa’s managing director believes strongly that the company has stood as a major investor into the country and its people, “Our company ensures through its first and second tier suppliers and its dealer network that thousands of South Africans are employed and can provide for their families.”

62 | Endeavour Magazine

A B C PILLARS TRUNK MAT

REAR SEAT BACK

REAR SEAT CUSHION CENTRE ARMREST

TRUNK LID TRIM

CONVENTIONAL & PIP HEADRESTS FRONT SEAT BACK FRONT SEAT CUSHION

WHEELHOUSE LINERS

PACKAGE TRAY EXTERIOR WHEELHOUSE LINERS SUN VISORS FLOOR INSULATORS

TUFTED & RANDOM VELOUR CARPET

INNER DASH INSULATOR

FIREWALL INSULATOR

LFT UNDERFLOOR SYSTEMS

BONNET INSULATOR

ALUMINIUM HEATSHIELDS

FLOOR MATS

FELTEX TRIM

FELTEX FEHRER

Textile-based automotive acoustic and trim components

Flexible foam, moulded seats, conventional and pour-in-place headrests, foam pads, armrests

CARAVELLE

IAC FELTEX

AUTONEUM FELTEX

FELTEX FOAM

Overlay carpets/ loose-lay vehicle mats

Acoustically engineered tufted automotive carpet and A, B and C pillars

Underfloor systems for thermal and impact protection and aluminium heatshields

Polyester and polyether thermoformable foams, PVC/Foam laminate, cutting and sewing of face fabrics

Feltex is one of South Africa’s largest automotive component manufacturers. The key success factors of Feltex are consistent quality, service and competitive pricing. Economies of scale assist Feltex Automotive in achieving competitive pricing in a relatively fragmented domestic market.

International technology partners provide global competitiveness to the business through shared intellectual capital.

Feltex Automotive’s information technology systems interlink with the OEM’s production planning systems.

Close proximity to the major OEM assembly plants facilitates ‘just-in-time’ and ‘just-in-sequence’ supply, thereby enhancing service delivery.

There is a strong culture of interdependence and synergy among the six business units, yet each is managed as an individual profit centre with its own management team.

Key business drivers are consistent quality, outstanding service, investment in modern technology, environmental responsibility and competitive pricing.

The company is continually investing in expanding existing factories and developing new facilities. All business units have achieved a strong supply position in their product sectors and this has enabled the businesses to achieve competitive prices through economy of scale.

BMW SOUTH AFRICA

He adds, “Given the length of time that we have been engaged

Bodo insists that there is a difference between involvement and

in South Africa we have certainly employed entire generations of

charity and that BMW does not use a mere cheque book approach

families. Grandparents, parents and children of the same family.”

but is investing it’s time along with its money into these CSRs.

It is adamant that this sort of long term investment in people

He gives an example, “The BMW Maths Science and Technology

leads to real community uplifting in the process and that the

Excellence Project encourages learners to pursue careers in the

success of BMW in this regard has made the company an integral

field of science and technology, while at the same time addressing

part of the social fabric of the country, “You must be a committed

the skills gap that exists in the country in this critical field,”

and above all engaged corporate citizen,” he says.

Last year, the performance of schools within BMW’s umbrella

Understanding their role as an influencer, there are a variety

exceeded the expectations and have improved on the pass rate of

of corporate social responsibility programmes that have been

2012 by more that 13% with 25% coming from fields of science

deliberately focussed away from marketing and brand building and

and mathematics. Impressively, the physical science pass rate was

directed towards the sustainable development of communities

11% higher than the national average and mathematics pass rate

for the people of SA. He explains, “We believe in long term

was 19% higher than the national average.

development and the future of the South African economy and we

Speaking with Bodo he tells us that one of the most promising

support over one hundred corporate social investment projects

community projects is the multi-purpose community centre in

across the country,”

Soshanguve known as the Shoshanguve Health and Wellness

The company’s CSR projects are rooted within three main areas:

Centre, which is near the Rosslyn plan and opened in 2005.

HIV and Aids, Local Community Development and Education with a

Providing residents with medical and psychological assistance,

focus on maths, science, technology and environment.

as well as continuing the education programmes the centre also

64 | Endeavour Magazine

offers health services, computer and technology training and even

and supporting their staff and workers, confident in the knowledge

a community garden for growing vegetables.

that such loyalty is often rewarded.

Quite far flung from the mere manufacturing of cars, this centre

This being said, Bodo is very aware of the damage that such

has become a central part to the 700,000 residents of Shoshanguve

strikes can cause for both sides and that South Africa has a history

being the source of information on HIV and AIDS which is still an

of striking workers.

epidemic in the area.

“It is important that all businesses in our industry put concerted effort into settling disputes without disrupting output as the South African market is already struggling to compete with the

THE HANDS BEHIND THE CARS

productivity of Eastern Europe and China,� he says.

Fully BBBEE Level 4 accredited, which is the highest ratings of

This message is important and boils down largely to education

all OEMs in the local industry the company’s remuneration strategy

and support. Hence the investment into the ongoing employee and

competes well with the best remuneration practises on offer in the

staff development and the 2009 investment of R2.2 billion into the

international automotive market.

development of the Rosslyn Plant, which was in-keeping with their

However, like their cars, the company cannot be judged when

plans for development and growth.

it is driving along a smooth road and BMW South Africa has been tested several times such as the four week strike that brought the industry to a standstill in 2014. Despite the fact that the strike lost the company around 13,000 cars BMW did not fall to the panic that engulfed the rest of the industry and focussed on facilitating

Endeavour Magazine | 65

AUTOMOTIVES

THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN ALL4 WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

MINI is launching the all new MINI Clubman ALL4 – the brand’s first all-wheel drive model in the C-segment. This launch marks the MINI brand’s further advancement into the premium compact segment and represents the first ALL4 model to be built at the MINI Plant in Oxford.

66 | Endeavour Magazine

M

INI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system, which has previously

standard on all models. Furthermore, every MINI Clubman ALL4

only been offered on MINI Countryman models, has been

also benefits from the MINI Excitement Package as standard, which

specially redeveloped to ensure sportier handling and

features a projection of the brand logo onto the ground beneath

improved versatility to further enhance the everyday practicality of

the driver’s side door mirror when the car is opened and closed, as

the new MINI Clubman.

well as extended interior lighting.

MINI Clubman was launched in October 2015 and is notable as

Production of MINI Clubman ALL4 has started at MINI Plant

MINI’s first vehicle in the competitive C-segment. Now, the brand

Oxford, with first deliveries to MINI retailers nationwide expected

is offering something new to the market in the form of Clubman

in April.

ALL4. Available with two of the latest MINI engines, the MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4 and the MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4.

The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology is the latest example of MINI’s engine

Model

HP

Trans CO2

MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4

192

Man

159

£24,305

OTR

MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4 190

Auto

126

£27,410

technology. Offering 192 hp, the new MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4 is combined with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard

MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4: 4-cylinder petrol engine with

and optionally with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. It achieves

MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology (turbo charging, direct injection,

fuel consumption of 40.9 mpg with the manual transmission

fully variable valve control, variable camshaft control), capacity:

(44.8mpg for automatic transmission) and has CO2 emissions of

1998 cc, output: 141 kW/192 hp at 5 000 rpm, torque: 280 Nm at

159g/km (146g/km).

1 250 rpm (300 Nm with overboost), acceleration (0–62mph): 7.0

The new MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4 features a 190 hp

seconds (automatic: 6.9 seconds), top speed: 142mph (142mph),

diesel engine with 400 NM of torque, which is paired with the

average fuel consumption*: 40.9mpg (44.8mpg), CO2 emissions*:

brand’s capable 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard.

159 g/km (146 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6.

Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 58.9mpg with CO2 emissions of 126g/km.

MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4: 4-cylinder diesel engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology (turbocharger with variable

The new MINI Clubman ALL4 includes an exceptionally high

turbine geometry, common rail direct injection), capacity: 1 995 cc,

specification, with the brand’s highly acclaimed navigation system

output: 140 kW/190 hp at 4 000 rpm, max. torque: 400 Nm at 1 Endeavour Magazine | 67

750 – 2 500 rpm, acceleration (0–62mph): 7.2 seconds, top speed:

take-off bevel gear diverts the power and relays it to a propeller

138mph, average fuel consumption*: 58.9mpg, CO2 emissions*:

shaft leading to the rear axle. Power transmission to the rear axle

126 g/km, exhaust emission standard: EU6.

differential is continuously managed via a hang-on clutch.

Exterior dimensions:

wheels within a fraction of a second by means of an electrohydraulic

Length:

4 253 millimetres

pump. Fast and precise reactive changes to road conditions are

Width:

1 800 millimetres

possible because the all-wheel drive system is connected to the

Height:

1 441 millimetres

Driving Dynamics System (DSC) which continuously calculates the

If necessary, the hang-on clutch can relay torque to the rear

Wheelbase: 2 670 millimetres

ideal power distribution between the front and rear wheels.

Not only are the wheel rotation speeds and the current

THE NEW ALL-WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM ALL4: §FAST AND PRECISE, COMPACT AND EFFICIENT.

longitudinal and lateral acceleration figures taken into account, but so is the road speed, accelerator position, engine torque and steering angle as well as the Driving Dynamics System (DSC)

The electronically controlled all-wheel drive system distributes

settings and the optional MINI Driving Modes. Based on this

drive torque between the front and rear axles depending on

data, MINI Clubman ALL4 calculates the risk of wheel slip and can

specific road conditions. This enables faster acceleration and

then anticipate and counteract any loss of traction, oversteer or

increases agility when taking bends at speed. ALL4 also ensures

understeer of the vehicle.

utmost traction and optimised driving stability in all weather and road conditions.

Taking the form of an electronic locking function for the front axle differential, the standard Electronic Differential Lock Control

The latest version of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system has been

(EDLC) improves traction when accelerating out of bends by means

designed to be compact and light-weight, therefore increasing

of selective braking. In DSC Off mode, this prevents spinning of the

efficiency. This means there is only a slight increase in fuel

front wheel on the inside of the bend and transmits drive power to

consumption and exhaust emissions compared to the respective

the outer front wheel instead. The Performance Control function

front-wheel drive models.

is another standard feature that helps enhance agility in the MINI

The drive power delivered by the engine via the manual or Steptronic transmission in the form of engine speed and torque is fed to the front axle differential. An integrated single-stage power

Cooper S Clubman ALL4 and the MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4 and works regardless of the DSC mode selected.

Other functions of the driving dynamics system DSC include the

* EU test cycle figures, fuel consumption dependent on the selected tyre format.

68 | Endeavour Magazine

anti-lock brake system (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution

wheel. Furthermore, in conjunction with the MINI navigation

(EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBD), the braking and drive-off

system the transmission is able to take account of the route profile

assistant, the brake dry function and Fading Brake Support. DTC

in automatically controlling gearshifts.

(Dynamic Traction Control) can also be activated when the vehicle is setting off in loose sand or deep snow.

A complete set of safety features, innovative driver assistance systems, intelligent connectivity.

Petrol and diesel engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo

In addition to the stiff, rigid and lightweight body structure,

Technology offer a lot of power efficiently distributed over four

a complete set of standard safety features also contributes to

wheels.

the outstanding occupant protection of the new MINI Clubman

The latest generation 4-cylinder engines featuring MINI

ALL4. This extensive protection comprises of six airbags, 3-point

TwinPower Turbo Technology are responsible for distributing the

automatic belts on all seats including belt tensioners and adaptive

power between the front and rear axle.

belt force limiters at the front, as well as ISOFIX child seat

Featuring a peak output of 192 hp, the 2.0-litre petrol engine in

mountings at the rear. A tyre pressure display for each individual

the new MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4 is the most powerful engine

wheel is also included as standard. Meanwhile, impact absorbers

in the range.

and precisely defined deformation zones ensure optimised

With the standard 6-speed manual transmission, the new MINI

pedestrian protection.

Cooper S Clubman ALL4 accelerates in 7.0 seconds from standing to

Optional driver assistance systems offered on the new MINI

62mph, while in conjunction with the optional 8-speed Steptronic

Clubman ALL4 serve to increase both safety and comfort. The

transmission the standard spurt takes just 6.9 seconds. The top

MINI head-up display, which extends from above the steering

speed is 142mph in each case. These figures are combined with an

column, enables the driver to focus their concentration on the road.

average fuel consumption of 40.9mpg (automatic: 44.8mpg) and

In addition to the cruise control with brake function, the Driving

CO2 emissions of 159 (146) grams per kilometre (EU test cycle

Assistant system is also available, featuring camera-based active

figures, dependent on tyre format selected).

cruise control and collision and pedestrian warning with brake

A turbocharging system with variable turbine geometry and

function, high beam headlight assistant and road sign detection.

common rail direct injection operates at a pressure of up to 2,000

Additional options include the Parking Assistant and rear view

bar inside the 2.0-litre diesel MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4

camera.

engine. The new MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4 combines the

Make Clubman Yours: High standard specification and options

most powerful diesel engine ever installed in a MINI with the

for every taste including atmospheric lighting, electrically adjustable

brand’s 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard, achieving

seats and much more.

superb pulling power as well as exemplary fuel consumption figures and emissions.

With the MINI Yours interior styles option, the door trim design is highlighted via illuminated decorative strips. These can

This enables the MINI Cooper SD Clubman ALL4 to sprint from

combined with interior trim finishers of various types and colours

standing to 62mph in just 7.2 seconds. The top speed is 138mph.

of the customers choosing. The MINI Excitement Pack features

These figures are combined with an average fuel consumption of

LED interior and ambient lighting which illuminates the cabin with

58.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 126 grams per kilometre (EU test

a choice of selectable colours as well as an external light display

cycle figures, dependent on tyre format selected).

activated when unlocking and locking the car using the remote key.

INNOVATIVE TRANSMISSIONS FOR PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY

the Chili pack, which adds a host of additional extras to the car.

Over 50% of MINI Clubman customers are expected to choose

The standard 6-speed manual transmission is characterised by low effort and short shift distances. A ‘rev matching’ function built into the manual transmission ensures jerk-free clutch engagement, thereby enhancing comfort when shifting down a gear.

The optional 6-speed Steptronic sport transmission combines

These features include cloth/leather upholstery with heated sports seats, MINI’s comfort access system, park distance control, automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and LED fog lights among other features. The Chili pack is priced at £2,785 across all models – a 30% customer saving on MINI Cooper Clubman compared with selecting the options individually.

excellent efficiency with smooth yet fast gear changes. In manual mode it’s possible to change gear using shift paddles at the steering

Endeavour Magazine | 69

70 | Endeavour Magazine

NISSAN ANNOUNCES FUTURE GENERATION ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERIES FOR UK PRODUCTION

N

issan has today announced its commitment to produce a

groundbreaking new £19.4m project that will team Nissan with

future generation of electric vehicle (EV) batteries at its

new academic and technology partners in the UK, supported with

flagship manufacturing base in Sunderland, UK.

a £9.7m grant from the UK’s Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC).

Representing a £26.5m investment in the UK, this commitment

The other consortium members are Hyperdrive Innovation,

will safeguard 300 highly-skilled jobs in manufacturing, maintenance

Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Newcastle

and engineering at Nissan’s advanced lithium-ion battery plant in

University and Zero Carbon Futures, who will work together on

Sunderland, the largest of its type in Europe.

key areas of battery development covering pilot projects, product

The announcement comes at the beginning of a landmark year

diversification and process improvement.

in which Nissan will celebrate the 30th anniversary year of its

UK Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: “This investment from

Sunderland factory – now the largest plant in the history of the UK

Nissan is a further vote of confidence in our thriving automotive

car industry.

sector.

Already the global leaders in electric vehicles and with a new

The UK is fast becoming a world leader in low carbon

155-mile (250km) range Nissan LEAF on sale across Europe this

automotive technology and the government is backing the industry.

month, this long-term commitment signals Nissan’s bold vision for

We committed an extra £225million funding to the Advanced

the future of zero-emission motoring.

Propulsion Centre in the Autumn Statement.

Paul Willcox, Chairman, Nissan Europe, said: “With 200,000 customers around the world already, the Nissan LEAF has transformed the performance and perception of EVs and made Nissan the undisputed leader in EV technology.

This Nissan project, which is benefiting from that funding, shows what can be achieved.”

Willcox added: “I congratulate all my colleagues in the UK on securing this future technology, which is just reward for the

Today’s announcement reflects Nissan’s intention to remain

second-to-none quality levels they have achieved since launching

EV leaders for many years to come, with our UK operations at the

battery manufacturing in Sunderland, which remains the biggest

heart of our future innovations.”

UK car plant of all time.”

Since EV production began in Sunderland in 2013, as part of a

Nissan’s UK battery plant is one of three Nissan battery

£420m investment, the Battery Plant and Nissan LEAF production

production sites globally, also providing battery modules for

has supported more than 2,000 jobs at Nissan and in its UK supply

Nissan’s all-electric van, the e-NV200, which is manufactured in

chain. Paving the way for future generation batteries will be a

the company’s plant in Barcelona, Spain.

Endeavour Magazine | 71

72 | Endeavour Magazine

LAMPRELL WWW.LAMPRELL.COM 00971 6 528 5345

A COMPANY WITH ITS EYES ON THE FUTURE WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

In order to ensure further steady growth, Lamprell, a market leader in the manufacturing and construction of rig platforms with 35 years experience and 10,000 employees, has launched a strategic plan aimed at diversification of its service offering to its particularly loyal band of clients and customers.

Endeavour Magazine | 73

LAMPRELL

A leading provider of fabrication, engineering and contracting

services to the offshore and onshore oil and gas and renewable energy industries and enjoying a well-established lead in the market positions in the fabrication of shallow-water drilling jackup rigs, liftboats, land rigs, and rig refurbishment projects, the company has an international reputation for building complex offshore and onshore process modules and fixed platforms. But even a company of this size can prove to be vulnerable.

A

ccording to CEO James Moffat, who was brought in

very successful, Lamprell went through a period where it grew

following the establishment of a new management team, the

significantl,y becoming a business with revenues over $1.1 billion

company, based in the Arab Emirates, has been undergoing

in 2011 and literally doubling in size between 2010 and 2011. In

an operational transformation; the result of a market dip in 2012

doing so a number of issues came to light,”

that cost the company in the region of $110 million. Changes have

He continues, “Lamprell was growing so quickly I don’t think

been ongoing since then and entering into 2016 saw a number of

control systems could keep up and while the underlying business

changes and possible developments.

was still sound and good, we suffered from growing pains.”

In the company newsletter he explained, “In October 2015, my

The profits warnings and the significant shortfall of $110 million

Executive Committee and I reviewed the organisation structure

led to the market’s loss of confidence in the chairman and the

with a view to establish a better alignment with our future business

management team and to the appointment of a new chairman Mr.

strategy and the market environment,”

John Kennedy in June 2012. In hindsight, the issues stemmed from

As part of this process, Nieall O’Connell was appointed as Chief Operating Officer. This change allowed the company to create an

a meltdown in organisation with too many projects bottlenecking in Lamprell’s process systems.

organisational structure that is often described as a three-legged

At the time the company had taken on two second generation

stool by which there is a function that is accountable for winning

wind turbine installation projects for Fred, Olsen Windcarrier AS in

new work, one that is accountable for executing that work and one

the North Sea, had won two jackups to be delivered in the Caspian

that ensures that they get paid for their work.

and had multiple rigs on order for NDC plus some major projects

It may seem obvious, but by Moffat’s own words in an interview

for the North Sea. “Lamprell had historically run projects on a

in January 2015 he attested that he believed the company grew too

standalone basis; now we had our yards full of all sorts of different

fast and over extended itself too quickly.

workloads so when the dominoes started to fall they started to hit

“After growing steadily for a number of years and being

74 | Endeavour Magazine

other work too,” adds Moffat.

Gates Engineering & Services has a › A typical jack up rig has long history of supporting Lamprell on flexible hose assemblie both new build rigs and refurbishment › 95% of whichbeing are at 300 projects. With an emphasis placed on safety, high quality and or higher added-value, Gates offers solutions › Failure of flexible hose a centred on product supply, including accounts for 47% of all tested and certified transfer hoses, rotary hoses, hydraulic power packs and spoolers. Gates solidifies this offering with the provision of mobile support plus hydraulic services, and has achieved 0% LTI whilst working onsite.

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flexible hose assemblies › 95% of which are at 3000 psi or higher › Failure of flexible hose assemblies accounts for 47% of all downtime

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environmental issues

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cost efficiency

› Managing working capital › Reducing downtime › Managing risk & unexpected exposure

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LAMPRELL

As a result, work was being pushed from 2012 to 2013, which caused further problems. “When you are running a billion dollar operation it is substantially different to a $250 million operation.

You might think you are building the same sort of product, just more of it, but the truth of the matter is the complexity and interfaces between projects almost goes up exponentially.”

However, according to Moffat today things are better organised and management has this reliable three-legged stool approach to lean back on. So far, it seems to be paying dividends.

“In October 2015, we successfully completed the load out of the first pipe racks for the UZ750 project which is destined for installation in Abu Dhabi and we have also received further awards from Petrofac.”

This project also achieved a major milestone by reaching two million man-hours without a day away from work case (DAFWC) with the Jebel Ali yard now having operated for more than three years without a single DAFWC. He continues, “There are currently seven jackup rigs being constructed in the Hamriyah yard, which is a record for the Group and was made possible following the recent completion of the yard optimisation measures.”

ENDING 2015 “Our results for 2015 were heavily weighted towards the second half of the year due to the phasing of construction,” he explains, “As a result, over the last few months we have increased our project workforce by approximately 1,500 people in line with our increased activity.”

Upfront as always, Moffat did say that the rig refurbishment segment is experiencing subdued levels of activity compared to 2014 and that separately, their clients have been using Lamprell’s facilities to stack rigs with a total of eight rigs currently located across their yards.

Lamprell has started the process of marketing its first land rig based on its own proprietary design and there has been considerable interest. It will be giving demonstrations of its capabilities to clients during the coming months. Lampell has maintained its strong big pipeline with high levels of enquiries for new work, although the number of projects actually proceeding to award has suffered from the current market challenges.

“The Group continues to view its exposure to the Middle East region as an important factor in its current and near-term business performance,” he says, “And we are targeting a number of major

GATES ENGINEERING & SERVICES 76 | Endeavour Magazine

LAMPRELL

regional projects for conversation and backlog.” He reveals that

by Petrofac to date to 45, including 39 pre-assembled pipe racks,

they have recently agreed with their largest company the National

three pre-assembled units and three pre-assembled modules.

Drilling Company of Aby Dhabi (NDC) to extend the outstanding two options and a new additional one, which will be due to expire come the end of the first quarter 2016.

THE PETROFAC PROJECT One year after the start of construction, in late October,

EMPLOYEES It is one thing to have high figures on the books and clients returning with offers of more work, but Moffat is particularly proud of their awards for Employee Health and Wellness, which have been held for the second successive year.

Lamprell’s Jebel Ali team successfully completed the load out of the

“We were delighted to report that we were awarded the Daman

first pipe racks for the UZ750 Petrofac project. To date eight pre-

Award for Improved Corporate Health and Wellness performance

assembled pipe racks have sailed away to the North Zakum Island

for the second year,” he says.

in Abu Dhabi to undergo installation and commissioning.

The company beat 44 finalists, including companies like DHL,

“Following the 2 million man-hours without a DAFWC Petrofac

Unilever, Eithad Airways, ADCB and Nestle. The award was

and ZADCO who are Petrofac’s client have recognised Lamprell’s

presented by UK double Olympic gld medallist Dame Kelly Holmes.

ability to meet the high standards required or our clients,” Moffat

“Winning this award last year was a great achievement,” Moffat

attests, “Thanks to this we have been rewarded additional work

says, “But being able to win it for a second successive year was a

including, most recently an additional five racks and three modules

much harder task but demonstrated how we have improved over

which we have commenced construction on and will have read by

and above the work we did for our staff last year.”

the last quarter of 2016.”

This brings the number of total modular structures awarded

CHANGES IN 2016 There are still a number of shake ups taking place in the current year, Namely, James Moffat has decided to retire effective June 30, 2016 and will stand down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and as a Director on that date. He indicates that the company is searching for his successor.

Until June 2016, Moffat will continue in his role as a Director and CEO. Thereafter, he has agreed to work with the company on an exclusive consultancy basis, providing advice and assistance to the Group for a period of up to one year. Furthermore, Lamprell said John Kennedy would take on the role of Executive Chairman for the Group until the next the company’s annual general meeting in 2016.

John Kennedy, Chairman, Lamprell, said: “We are sorry to see Jim Moffat retire and will always be grateful for his significant contribution. Under his management, the company has delivered impressive financial and operational performance, including record profits in 2014, and is in a much stronger position as a result. We have already commenced the search process to find a replacement CEO. On behalf of the Board I sincerely thank Jim for his efforts and significant achievements since joining in early 2013.”

Tony Wright who has been deputy CFO since October 2014 has been officially promoted into the role of Chief Financial Officer and appointed as an Executive Director of the Board with immediate effect.

Kennedy commented, “I am also pleased that Mr Tony Wright has been promoted to the role of Chief Financial Officer for the

78 | Endeavour Magazine

Company. During his time working in the Group he has had a very positive impact on the way that the business operates and the Board is keen to promote from within, where possible.”

Two new non-executive directors have been appointed, namely Mel Fitzgerald and Debra Valentine Fitzgerald who both joined the Board last year.

Kennedy added, “I am delighted to announce that Mr Mel Fitzgerald and Ms Debra Valentine have agreed to join as Nonexecutive Directors as this will strengthen the Board significantly.

They both bring many years of experience in the global energy industry and their respective skills will complement the current expertise on the Board, thereby creating a balanced and highperforming Board with a strong combination of industry specific, financial and operational experience.”

Like any good machine, a company must be sternly shaken from time to time to ensure that all the parts are still secure and to highlight where changes need to occur. Lamprell has the foundation and the strength to continue and with these new changes the future is surely going to be a bright one for them.

Technical Access Services provide the Oil and Gas industry with unsurpassed levels of service for the provision of safe, quality access scaffolding for any application. We have strength in depth in our management team, manpower and material resource and safety ethos. TAS are proud to have been supporting market leading company’s such as Lamprell Energy for over a decade.

Endeavour Magazine | 79

80 | Endeavour Magazine

TGV CINEMAS WWW.TGV.COM.MY 603 2381 3535

THE FACE OF MALAYSIA’S ENTERTAINMENT WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST

Going to the cinema is an event, an adventure and should be exciting, but after being such a large part of the film experience, the silver screen is having to undergo changes to keep pace with the changing time and tastes of cinema goers.

Endeavour Magazine | 81

TGV CINEMAS

This was definitely the case when Gerald Dibbayawan was brought in as CEO of TGV Cinemas to reinvigorate the brand.

“A

t that stage cinema had stagnated for some time,” he explains, “In 2008 the umbrella companies of TGV Cinema chain had a big shake up and had settled on an expansion

plan but lacked someone with the right industry experience to lead it. I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity.”

An Australian, Gerald has been in the entertainment industry for 20 years, working in Thailand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong and now Malaysia, and has a very open and honest approach to his industry, “It’s better than selling used cars that’s for sure!” he exclaims, “There is always something changing, content is changing.

We play an important role in the suspension of disbelief that a film conveys and the success of a film is often in its presentation. Each year my job is to make twenty million people happy.”

And he has been doing a good job of it. Brought in with a mandate to fix what was already there and develop a path for

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further growth, TGV Cinemas has seen the number of screens increase from 124 to 250 and an increase of their market share from 24% to 34%. Attendance is up as well, which by itself is a sign of customer satisfaction.

With no say in how a film is produced, the cinema industry is entirely focussed on how it is seen and Gerald reveals that the Malaysian film industry has reached a cross roads, “There have been changes to what customers want, combined with some unusual circumstances to do with economic and political uncertainties, this all has an impact.”

82 | Endeavour Magazine

Photo ©HMSK

TGV CINEMAS

“Additionally, the big budget films of the US, while very

“You have to invest time and effort into the staff training and

entertaining and popular, are drawing away from smaller local films

development,” he says, “For three years our focus has been to

and filmmakers that should be getting attention. As such the local

enhance the staff quality. Two and a half years ago we made the

film industry is going through a rough patch as far as quality and

decision to advance the remuneration of our staff which means

budgets,”

that our front line staff get paid more than our competitors, and not

However, the standard of the local film industry does not have a specifically adverse affect on the cinema industry and while Gerald

that far from the wage that bigger global brands such as Starbucks offers.”

does acknowledge that the local sector could benefit from more

And he also evaluated the levels of training and experience the

attention, it is up to them to improve on their quality and to bring

staff received, “You cannot ask your staff to achieve new targets if

it to a level where it can compete with the big budget films from

you don’t offer them training and development options,” he says,

overseas.

“So we instituted a certification programme wherein you get your

“Our attendance is going up,” he says, “So there is no argument

basic training, then you get certified at different stages of your

that we are on the right track and while we may have to work with

development and this ensures consistently high quality customer

the films available, we have instigated a number of improvements

experience.”

in other areas.”

Training has to be broken down, he describes, “If someone is

Any entertainment experience is only enhanced by good

tasked with handling cash on the front line then that person has

customer service from the staff and Gerald reveals that with 140

to be training in appropriate customer services and user handling.

staff at the head office and a further 2,000 frontline staffTGV

So training is broken down allowing everyone to gain mastery and

Cinemas’ staff play a vital role in the customer experience. This, he

develop. This way our newest recruits are trained by professionals

explains, is the key to the success he has been able to instigate over

who have come before them and able to show them the valuable

the past three years.

lessons to keep.”

If it’s cinema, it’s got to be Christie® Christie’s commitment to our global customers is demonstrated with our understanding of the cinema business spanning over 85 years.

By offering total theatre solutions designed to enhance opportunities and support business, now and in the future, Christie continues to provide innovative products featuring xenon and laser illumination, as well as immersive audio that increase the value of your business.

And Christie’s expertise in the cinema industry is something to count on. If it’s cinema, it’s got to be Christie.

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84 | Endeavour Magazine Christie Cinema Solutions half page ad.indd 1

21/1/16 4:11 PM

Furthermore there is great scope for internal promotion and growth and Gerald is very proud that some of their key positions are held by people who had worked the front line, “In fact, our head of film buying started off on the front line serving people, he worked his way up from the bottom to one of the most important roles in the company.”

There is the risk of training people only to see them leave and head off to a competitor, but Gerald says this is a worth risk taking, “It is better to train up a person and watch them leave than not train a person and have them stay,” He also acknowledges that if everyone in the industry as a whole is trained to a similarly high level then it can only benefit the industry as a whole.

“We take the point of view that you won’t be here forever, we’re realistic that you’ll move on, but it’s important you achieve personal growth and have a good time,”

MARKETING APPROACH Beyond the people who are the face of the business, one of the other areas that had to change was that of marketing. A decision

architecture

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Phone +603 2282 1308 Fax +603 2282 3621 hmsk.com.my Endeavour Magazine | 85

TGV CINEMAS

was made to move away from newspaper advertising, which was

“Standards have to be maintained,” he says “Nothing can be

proving to be redundant for obvious reasons and move towards a

left to chance and this is why we work with companies who have

healthier online, digital and on-ground media.

proven the worth of their relationships with us.”

“We are also moving towards data mining as well and implemented a membership platform last year, where paying members get 10% of their transaction value to points for future redemptions,” he says, “This is vitally useful as we’re able to collect transactional and behaviour data and return it back as targeted marketing, giving our loyal members timely information and promotions relevant to them.”

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PEOPLE

THE FUTURE OF TGV CINEMAS “Cinema is changing,” Gerald says, “We’re competing against not only obvious competitors but also the Internet, cable, Netflix and whilst they don’t show the same content, they do consume people’s time. The biggest shift is moving away from transactions and embracing relationships. Not impressions but relationships and this entails a lot of things.

“A lot goes into this multifaceted relationships. What we do is

Suppliers, vendors and partners need to be very carefully

create relationships one to one, but with millions of people, which

selected, Gerald attests, “And those relationships have to be looked

still involves getting to know them better. Giving them what they

after.”

want and when they want it. We have a customer experience

Refurbishments, revamps, new expansions and growth is made that much harder if every time you grow you have to find new companies to work with and this is where being selective with the businesses chosen to supply them.

manager and she acts as the customer’s advocate, to understand what they want and to bring that learning to the organisation”.

Anticipating what the customer wants is going to play a big part in the future, Gerald says because customer’s don’t just want films, “Great experiences is what they want and films are just one part of it. Who is to say our cinemas can’t be used for live events, concerts or sports? Recently we hosted a live screening of computer-based league of legends.”

“This leads us to the question of how to make full use of our cinemas and not just be held to tradition; how do we give an experience…?”

One of the answers came in the effort of reintroducing noncinema goers to the environment and to entice the families back.

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The statement that Gerald often hears is, “I haven’t been to cinema because I have young children.”

So they created family-friendly sessions and marketed as Family Friendly in weekends in mornings and afternoon where the light levels in the hall are higher, sound is lower, change tables at back and kids are allowed to move around. A truly family friendly movie experience!

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Ultimately, Gerald’s approach to making cinema great is by making the experience great, “There is nothing like the big screen experience. TGV is where movies ‘live’, and memories are born!”.

Photo ©HMSK Photo ©HMSK

Endeavour Magazine | 87

88 | Endeavour Magazine

EDISON POWER WWW.EDISONPOWERGROUP.CO.ZA 0027 31 566 9500

SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Without a doubt, while Eskom may control 95% of the energy in South Africa, the frequent load shedding the giant company is forcing upon the country has created opportunities for independent companies to rise with the promise of a more reliable supply and a better service.

Rising above the shambles of the industry sector is Edison Power Group who have, for the last three decades reliably grown and developed to be one of the better companies weighing into the monopoly that Eskom has held for so long.

Endeavour Magazine | 89

EDISON POWER

Despite the economic hardships felt by the company, South Africa

is a hot bed of development and the demand for reliable power is at an all time high. The dependency on coal is still high, but the use of renewables has started to catch up, thanks in part to businesses like EPG who have built their business around out of the box thinking and planning ahead.

F

ounded by entrepreneur and visionary Vivian Reddy during

Africa’s history but also a difficult time to run a business, Vivian

the late seventies, EPG is now the oldest electrical contracting

Reddy began his company under the name Reddy’s Electrical with

company in the country and specialises in electrical installations

R500 to his name and a bakkie (pickup). The difficulty it faced was

working in an array of sectors including commercial, township

anonymity and competition and it took a change of the company’s

reticulation, live line installations, wind and solar EPC, industrial, HV

name to Edison Power (named after Thomas Edison) to ignite the

and LV Reticulation and substation and transformer installations.

success and plant the seeds of a reputation for excellence that outlasted the Apartheid Regime and is still rising today.

WORKING SMART PAYS Vivian began his career with Hubert Davies, one of the largest electrical companies at the time and it was here that he served his apprenticeship and went on to obtain a Diploma in Electrical Contracting Management and several other qualifications in the electrical contracting Industry.

While his success with Edison Power led to a much publicised and well-chronicled diversification into a number of fields of entrepreneurial success, today his business interests encompass property investments, gaming and leisure, wind energy, smart metering, technology and international trading. As is often the case, EPG was not an instant success. Being founded during the Apartheid Regime, which was not only a dark time for South

90 | Endeavour Magazine

One of the key aspects of any energy company is the ability to correctly monitor energy usage. Giving the ability to stay on top of energy usage in the household or business has proven to be a major tool in saving energy and thereby keeping costs down.

Such projects are what is keeping Christo Nicholls, CEO of EPG’s Smart Utility Solution Division, excited about the future. As he explained during African Utility Week in Cape Town in 2015, “The achievements of the biggest smart meter roll-out project on the African continent at City Power, is undoubtedly a source of excitement for the group,” he said, “What excites explicitly is the ability to provide feedback to the industry on what was achieved, versus what is still to be achieved. Hence, spearheading a culture within the African smart metering space of talking in past versus

EDISON POWER

future tense with regards to actual achievements in this domain.�

and involvement of previously disadvantaged individuals, through

EPG is focussed on providing customised and tangible value-

innovations and a willingness to try new ways of encouraging this

adding services to utilities within the African space, while keeping

development. The company not only has the capacity and ability to

to a holistic approach that introduces an agile, product agnostic

deliver on its promise of involvement of previously disadvantaged

and resource and facility establishment culture.

people at a significant level and within its client’s requirements,

This culture has been key in contributing towards the major differentiation of the group, as well as their swift decision-making,

but also boasts a proven record of regularly exceeding these requirements.

mass rollout of operations- capacity-readiness and a myriad of business models fitting for the African market.

HURDLES

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY

the progressive infiltration of smart technologies and solutions,

Within the African space there are two major giants hampering

EPG is famously committed to the principles of employment

which is due to contribute significantly towards the broader

equity through a philosophy and climate that enables people at

infrastructure expansion and subsequent maintenance objectives

all levels, regardless of gender, race, colour or creed, to have the

with Africa. Firstly, a lack of localised skilled resources and properly

opportunity to develop and advance within the company. These

equipped facilities and secondly, there is a lack of innovative, yet

chances emphasise opportunities for all and seek to identify,

legislated funding options encouraging a long-term, partnership-

develop and reward each employee that demonstrates the qualities

based model.

of initiative, enterprise, hard work and loyalty in their job.

This being said, Christo is a man of keen focus and shares a

BLACK ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

vision for the energy industry within the African utility space

Furthermore, their commitment to BEE is illustrated by the

where EPG becomes an active partner alongside Africa to help

continuous endeavours in the employment of emerging businesses

establish a self-sustaining and profitable energy sector leveraging

92 | Endeavour Magazine

on the best technologies the world has to offer, however, deployed, managed and operated by Africa-based skilled resources within well-equipped facilities, guided by Africa-specific tailored business processes.

“This, we believe, will form the cornerstone in the massive onslaught required against a few of the African-based hurdles that we face,” he continues to elaborate, “We face a growing generation of potential-filled, however, unskilled Youth and this is compounded by a worrying trend of well trained and sharp African minds leaving the country for jobs and better prospects elsewhere. We need to create opportunities that will be fruitful enough to keep those with the valuable skills here,” And the opportunities are already available. He explains that they believe where major issues exist there are fantastic opportunities to help address them. The main issue is that the Mexican stand off between a lack of funds and an urgently required infrastructure expansion and renewal versus an immediate need for sustainable and reliable electricity and water for the residential, commercial and industrial sectors to continue to grow.

“We can’t have one without the other but both are waiting for

MAKING A STAND Here stands EPG with the message that they are putting out their hand to come alongside the utilities within Africa and through a pragmatic, transparent and symbiotic-in-nature partnership, is starting to solve the actual issues within the utility space, as opposed to punting the next best technology into the market only.

This will be accomplished through ensuring accurately mapped out technology, creating the required skill base, erecting the needed facilities and assisting in getting the necessary policies and processes in place, all to deliver a sustainable, cost effective and most importantly, benefit-delivering solution for Africa and its utilities.

Driven by the determination to be the leading culturally diverse company in the electrical industry, EPG is able to approach this mission through the provision of cost effective, efficient services and a commitment to increasing the shareholder value whilst improving the quality of life for all South Africans. In over 36 years of business they have repeatedly been able to achieve their targets and have become the best and brightest in their industry.

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Endeavour Magazine | 93

94 | Endeavour Magazine

E.ON GAS STORAGE WWW.EON-GAS-STORAGE.DE 0049 201 946 1400

KEEPING THE GAS IN WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS

Not only is Germany E.On’s largest asset position, accounting for around 16.4 GW of power generation, but it is also their home market and the base from which most of their global units manage operations. With their corporate headquarters in Dßsseldorf, Germany, their German regional unit operates the power and gas networks, supplies power and gas and provides distributed-energy solutions in Germany while also serving as an important partner in their global units, particularly the generation unit.

Endeavour Magazine | 95

E.ON GAS STORAGE

With over 22,000 employees and 6.3 million customers, they are considered to be one of the country’s biggest energy companies with their network operating over 383,000 kilometres of power lines and 57,000 kilometres of gas pipelines. Conversely, their renewables count for just under 7% of their owned generation in 2014.

While the goal is to keep energy sustainable and affordable,

help integrate renewable and low-carbon distributed generating

the history-making decision to phase out nuclear energy has

units, while ensuring the stability and reliability of Germany’s

caused significant challenges to the company. As the phase out has

energy supply system.

accelerated, so too has the growth of their share of renewables.

Already they operate 32 wind farms in Germany with a total capacity of 213 MW and enjoy a significant offshore position. In a recent press release, the company revealed plans to commission three deep-water wind farms in the North and Baltic seas over the next few years that will deliver a capacity of over 1.2 GW of energy.

The first of these will be the Amrumbank West, which was made fully operational by Autumn 2015 and provides 288MW of power.

Since 2006 the E.ON Group has conducted an annual materiality analysis to identify and prioritise sustainability issues and in 2014 they began applying the materiality principle of the Global Reporting Initiative’s G4 guidelines. This requires the E.ON Group to identify those aspects that reflect their significant economic, environmental and social impacts or that substantively influences their stakeholders’ assessments and decisions.

Environmentally-friendly products and services will help transform Germany’s energy system and therefore are very important for E.On. Distributing generating units, which promote consumer autonomy, system flexibility, efficiency and climate protection, will play a particularly significant role. More than onethird of all distributed generating capacity subsidised by Germany’s Renewable Energy Law is connected to the networks of E.ON network operators.

Not only does the company exhibit expertise in integrating distributed generating units into the power system, but they also install and operate them nationwide. Beyond their normal portfolio, which includes micro CHP units for homes and apartment buildings, biomass-fired units for commercial applications and large CHP units for industrial enterprises, they are also working on new energy storage technologies, active energy management for customers and smart grids. The aim is that all of these efforts will 96 | Endeavour Magazine

ALL ABOUT THE GAS In 2005 the UK became a net importer of gas for the very first time and the country’s dependence on imported gas continues to increase, year on year. Recognising the important role gas storage will play in the future of UK energy, E.ON established a gas storage business in the UK in 2005; E.ON Gas Storage UK Ltd. (EGS UK).

EGS UK is responsible for securing E.ON’s access to long-term gas storage projects and this includes identifying, developing, constructing and operating a portfolio of gas storage facilities to meet the needs of the E.ON business and the wider UK gas market.

NATURAL GAS STORAGE Currently, EGS UK is deep in the construction of one of the UK’s most flexible underground gas storage facilities at Holford in Cheshire. This facility is planned to have a working gas volume of some 60 million therms (approx. 160 million cubic metres) and will be the supplier to some three million UK homes. (Working gas is the gas volume that can be stored or withdrawn at any time in addition to the cushion gas.)

There are also plans to develop another underground gas storage facility at Whitehill near Aldbrough in East Yorkshire, which will have a working gas volume of 150 million therms (400 million cubic metres) and will be the supplier of gas to some 7 million homes in Britain. This facility could also be potentially developed into a seasonal or highly flexible fast-churn storage facility, however this will depend on the most appropriate design that will be selected to suit the future UK gas market needs.

WHERE GERMANY HOLDS THE GAS

E.ON GAS STORAGE

Germany’s ability to hold it’s gas has grown significantly over the

when consumer demand is low, has to be stored in underground

last few years in terms of the volume of working gas, the number

gas storage facilities so it can be used to cover peaks in consumer

of storage facilities, storage users and the range of products and

demand, such as particularly cold days in winter when consumption

services on offer. It is seen as big business at the moment and so

is high. So, alongside their technical role as an instrument for

there is a push to plug the market.

matching supply and demand, underground gas storage facilities

With 25 storage operators, more than 40 natural gas storage facilities and a working gas capacity of some 21 bcm, Germany is

are likely to become increasingly important for supply security as a vital link between the gas deposits and the consumer.

now recognised as one of the world’s largest gas storage markets.

Basically there are two ways of storing gas underground: the

There is also a conveniently balanced mixture of porous rock

storage cavern and the storage reservoir. The two differ with regard

and cavern storage facilities. This well-structured and diversified

to the reservoir rock and the storage mechanism.

infrastructure provides for intense national and international competition.

E.ON’S TAKE ON THE GAS IN GERMANY Considering the above, E.ON is leading the field in Germany’s gas storage with some 8.6 bcm of working gas capacity in 15 underground storage facilities at 13 locations in Germany and Austria and for Europe as a whole, which includes its subsidiary in the UK, the figure is 8.8 bcm.

E.ON Gas Storage operates the third largest storage reservoir in Germany, Bierwang, which is a former gas deposit located in sandstone strata at a depth of 1,500 metres. Its underground storage facilities at Epe and Etztel are by far the largest gas storage cavern sites in Europe. In Epe alone, E.ON Gas Storage stores about 2.1 bcm of working gas!

Thanks to their footprint in this industry, E.ON have been in the position to develop their core areas of business to stay upwind of their nearest competition. These areas include expertise in the operation of gas storage facilities in Germany in accordance with European law and development of the gas storage business in the EU as well as all the technical and commercial development of storage projects and underground storage facilities. All this, while remaining flexible to the needs of the consumers and keeping their services and products as innovative and applicable as possible!

They run a Gas Storage Competence Centre in the E.ON Group as well as an E.ON Innovation Centre for Energy Storage.

Reliable gas supplies, in line with patterns of demand, have become something that we all take for granted. Underground gas storage facilities are an element in the infrastructure of the gas industry which makes it possible to create a balance between the virtually continuous supply of gas from the producing countries and deliveries to the customers where demand fluctuates sharply depending on the season. They are also useful to bridge temporary supply bottlenecks.

STORAGE CAVERNS Storage Caverns, where salt domes provide underground cavities. The petro-physical properties of salt guarantee the natural tightness of the rock salt caverns and make an additional lining, such as those required for storage caverns in disused mine workings, unnecessary.

The use of salt caverns as underground gas storage facilities depends on the occurrence of huge underground salt deposits at accessible depths. The salt domes in northern and central Germany are particularly suitable for this. Large cavities for storing gas can be created in the rock salt, which is mainly located in so called salt stocks only a few hundred metres under the earth’s surface and can easily be tapped through borings.

These boreholes are then used to inject water into the deeper rock salt layers and to pump the dissolved salt to the earth’s surface as brine. The cavern is, in most cases, cylindrical in shape.

Depending on the size, the heights of such caverns vary between 100 and over 500 metres and the volumes of gas stored between 40 and 100 million m3 per cavern. The cavities formed resemble underground tanks and the borehole is the only way of injecting gas into or withdrawing gas from them.

Compressors are used to inject the gas into the caverns and store it there under pressure. This way, it can be withdrawn quickly at any time. The gas held in a gas storage facility is always divided into cushion and working gas. The cushion gas is the volume of gas that is necessary to ensure the minimum storage pressure necessary for optimal gas injection and withdrawal. In storage caverns, the cushion gas is also necessary to ensure stability. The proportion of cushion gas is roughly one third to a half of the maximum storage volume and remains permanently in the storage facility.

STORAGE RESERVOIR

Underground storage facilities are also the link between gas

Storage reservoirs are underground gas storage facilities in

deposits and consumers. Gas procurement in Germany and Europe

depleted gas or oil deposits as well as in aquifer horizons. Since

is based, to a significant extent, on contracts with producers, which

gas and oil have previously been extracted from these deposits,

provide for the same volumes to be supplied on a regular basis

they have already been well examined before they are used for

over the year. Therefore, the gas that is not needed in summer,

gas storage and their storage behaviour is known. The caprock

98 | Endeavour Magazine

layers, which mostly consist of mudstone or rock salt, have been impervious to gas for millions of years and therefore ensure safe storage operations.

Aquifers are porous, water-filled rock strata that are covered by impermeable caprock. The injection of storage gas displaces the resident water from the porous spaces and creates an artificial gas deposit. When the gas is withdrawn, the displaced water pushes the stored gas back into the borehole.

Today, more than half the world’s population lives in cities and this proportion is increasing. Modern cities are becoming the stimulus for many global developments, but they face the challenge of having to reconcile a lot of different and often conflicting goals. Their inhabitants want a high quality of life and also a say

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SILICA Verfahrenstechnik GmbH | Wittestraße 24, D-13509 Berlin, GERMANY, Fon +49 30 435 735 Endeavour Magazine | 99

100 | Endeavour Magazine

REVIVE ELECTRICAL TRANSFORMERS WWW.RET.CO.ZA 0027 87 135 0149

FAMILY BUSINESS WITH FAMILY VALUES WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Transformers make the transmission of power over long distances possible and so form an integral part of any national grid network. Through this, African Revive Electrical, a South African company, was the first company to manufacture dry-type transformers for medium voltage in SA and to this day stands as one of the largest Pole Mount distribution transformer manufacturers in the country. Lead by a visionary, we look at the company’s accomplishments and future with CEO Dharmalingum “Paddy” Padayachee.

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REVIVE ELECTRICAL TRANSFORMERS

Nobody would contest that RET has a strong position in its

marketplace. As manufacturers of oil-filled distribution transformers 5KVA-1.9KV-33KV, cast resin distribution transformers 100KVa5000KVA-6.6KV-33KV, mini-substation, NEC-NEC and Aux transformers, RET’s customer list comes from all of the southern African countries including Botswana, Mozambique, Swaziland, Namibia, Zambia, the DRC, Ghana, Malawi and Lesotho and there are plans to extend their reach further still. And with recommendations from a client list encompassing both the public and private sector and contracts spanning Southern Africa with an array of major players in the power production space such as Eskom, Siemens, Voltex and ARB, RET seems set to take on the world.

F

ounded as a family business and keeping those values close

the financial director and his second son, Sumeshan Padayachee,

to their hearts, RET possesses a firm dedication to tailoring its

working as the general manager for the business.

services to the specialist nature of its customers’ requirements.

These values, combined with punctuality, a high standard of quality and competitive pricing has propelled RET to the forefront of its industry, locally, and cemented its position in the electrical transformer market.

The founder and CEO began his careers as an electrical engineer at Siemens South Africa where he worked for over 18 years in different positions, acquiring a vast amount of technical knowledge along the way. He became a manager at Eskom in 1991. The stint at South Africa’s seminal power producer not only allowed him to hone his technical ability further but also provided the opportunity to gain vital managerial experience.

It was six years later that Padayachee decided to branch out on his own, recognising the need for a home-grown transformer manufacturer and service provider in South and Southern Africa.

In a recent interview Padayachee explained, “Revive Electrical Transformers was established in 1997 and began producing oil immersed transformers and in 2011 stated manufacturing dry type transformers to match the gap in the market that it had identified,” As a well recognised specialist in the service, repair and manufacturer of transformers, Revive has gradually evolved into one of the largest suppliers to the market in Sub Saharan Africa.

“Since its inception, the company has grown to be of the largest manufacturers of distribution transformers in South Africa, with an order book of over 20 million US dollars per annum,” he added, “It supplies transformers ranging from 16KVA to 5000 KVA to various customers which include power utilities, municipalities, electrical contractors and the industrial sector in general.”

Nearing retirement age, Padayachee is still very much involved in the day-to-day running of his business and has shaped his company into a family operation with his wife, Priscilla, working as 102 | Endeavour Magazine

GREEN GROWTH It was the recent Government recognition of the rapid global transition towards renewable energy that lead to the first tentative steps in 2003 towards what is today a flourishing renewables sector in SA, where the country’s leaders have become noticeably determined to take full advantage of the high level of renewable energy potential in the country.

The

Renewable

Energy

Independent

Power

Producer

Procurement programme REIPPP, established in 2011 as a competitive auction for SA renewable energy projects is the vehicle which the Government is using to reach its target of 3,725 MW electricity produced from renewable sources.

The burgeoning industry in South Africa is bringing in an increase in foreign investment and stimulating local industry sectors in the process. RET is one of the companies to benefit from the South African renewables race with demand high and growing exponentially for its dry type transformers, specifically used in renewable energy projects.

“The developments of the renewable energy industry in South Africa presented an opportunity for the local manufacture of environmentally friendly distribution transformers,” says Paddy, “The need for this special product in the renewable sector influenced RET to design, manufacture and supply dry type, cast resin and amorphous core transformers in 2011, making it the first and only company to locally manufacture and distribute these transformers.

When directly comparing to commonly used oil filled transformers, dry type transformers are compact and safer and free from fire hazard perspectives as they are made from a selfextinguishing material. RET was awarded almost 200MW of CRT

REVIVE ELECTRICAL TRANSFORMERS

Transformers over the past 2 years and has just received another 100MW from Santerno for its two solar projects in South Africa.”

Timing is everything and Paddy responded to the changing market and invested R40 million into diversifying into high quality,

Due to the large order book, over the past few years RET has expanded its operations in a new state of the art 17000 m factory, south of Johannesburg. Its existing factory in Steele dale continues to produce more than 1500 transformers per month.

dry type transformers with epoxy-resin insulation. Not only is RET

The new facility is divided into three areas of production; the

continuing to service the specialised needs of its clients, but it is

manufacture of oil filled distribution transformers from 16KVA to

also a pioneer in the industry, as the first company to manufacturer

5MVA, the manufacture of Mini Sub-stations and the new product

this product locally. When compared with oil type transformers,

line- the cast resin dry type transformers. The factory is equipped

dry type transformers offer a lot of advantages, such as energy

with a state of the art automated test bay, imported from Haefely

efficiency, eco-friendliness, ease of maintenance and operation

in Switzerland, which ensures the most accurate load and no-load

and reliability. These technical benefits, coupled with RET’s local

losses, as well as 3Dmodelling software for partial discharge and

knowledge and reputation have contributed to a steadily increasing

has the capacity to test from 16KVA up to 5 MVA.

up take for the product and over 300 MW worth of orders.

The other side of RET’s business, the manufacture, installation and service of oil-filled transformers has continued to flourish over the last five years and as result of RET’s “unmatched technical know-how, in 2012 RET was awarded a contract with Eskom to manufacturer 500 50KVA amorphous core low transformers for its pilot project. This contract resulted in RET being the first company to fully type test the amorphous 3-phase transformer to Eskom specification.”

104 | Endeavour Magazine

THE PAST YEAR AT RET When dealing with a relatively new product there is bound to be a certain amount of trial and error as it is impossible to plan for every eventuality and making mistakes and learning from them is often how vital improvements can be identified and made.

There have been a few bumps in the road for RET’s new dry type transformers, mostly clerical errors that have affected the manufacturing output, but nothing that could not be quickly

NON-FERROUS METAL WORKS

rectified. Then, not forgetting South Africa’s quick-to-strike

www.NFM.co.za

mentality that brought the industry to a standstill in 2014 when the NUMSA striked, an action that can still be felt today. Further to this was a taxi strike that meant a number of employees couldn’t get into work and the ongoing load shedding by Eskom, which has had a significant toll on businesses in the country.

The main cause for concern, especially in the dry type transformers arena, comes in the form of the high cost of importing

Non Ferrous Metal Works wishes to congratulate Revive Electrical Transformers for favouring NFM as its preferred vendor of aluminium profiles plus foils.

raw materials compared to its Far Eastern counterparts. This is an industry dominated by Asian products, which is one of the reasons why RET stands for local manufacturing.

RET does have a competitive edge compared to any international players offering the same service and products, namely their ability to offer products tailored for the African context. The grid in South Africa is a puzzle-work of technologies garnered over the last 60 years and transformers have to take into consideration the limitations and credits of all of it.

TRADE ENQUIRY: EB@NFM.CO.ZA Durban: Pretoria: Johannesburg: Cape Town: East London: Port Elizabeth:

031 480 7389 012 327 0016 011 626 3390 021 511 0286 043 722 1585 041 451 1354

Email: TraceyR@nfm.co.za Email: NateR@nfm.co.za Email: SundraM@nfm.co.za Email: CharlK@nfm.co.za Email: LauraR@nfm.co.za Email: ShaakiraP@nfm.co.za

The family values that have come to represent RET have become so important as they encourage a commitment, versatility and innovative approaches that will keep this company transforming the transformer’s industry for a long time.

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AIRTEL WWW.AIRTEL.COM 00254 733 100100

CONNECTING PEOPLE, COMMUNITIES AND DREAMS WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Offering the widest geographical footprint in Zambia, Airtel Networks Zambia is the leading service provider and boasts the widest coverage of both developed and rural areas. A subsidiary of the giant Bharti, the company first began operating in 2010 and offers a total one-stop shop for their customers and their specialised needs.

Endeavour Magazine | 107

AIRTEL

Setting an example externally and internally, the company is a

steadfast equal opportunity employer and currently employing some 319 employees. Of this number, 201 are male and 118 female and of the total senior managers and executive committee 30 are female and 50 are male with 9 expatriate employees of whom five are of Indian origin.

A

irtel have firmly established themselves into the mentality of

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY STRATEGY

the modern working world of Zambia, indelibly fixed within the

There are a number of challenges that need to be tackled

country’s economic growth on all levels including individual,

for Zambia to continue to grow in the right direction and Airtel

organisational and national. Mobile phones are without doubt

have built themselves three pillars to help them engage the local

changing the way many people live and work in Zambia as they

communities in which they operative. This three point awareness

make business easier and more efficient and so transforming the

is known as the Airtel Education Initiative.

national economy. They keep families and communities in touch.

Affordability,

Innovation

and

Community

form

Airtel’s

Proudly associated with economic transformation within

philosophy for empowering people, which include their employees,

the country, the business is centred on developing the ability

customers and their communities, to help them achieve their goals,

for Zambians to communicate. This plays a major role in the

to liberate their dreams and give them the freedom to take control

development of any nation and has proved to be a fundamental

of their communication.

step up for the company to change lives for all Zambians, while making their country a better and brighter place to live.

As a business they strive to reach and uplift the underprivileged in the societies in which they operate, through education.

“We have customers right across the social spectrum, from

Alongside this vision, Airtel Africa focuses on the education of

civil servants, business executives and artisans to housewives

underprivileged children through adoption of schools across all our

and students,” they say, “And our aim is to offer services that truly

operations in Africa.

support this exciting mix of social and economic groups and to offer services that are of value to the customer.”

108 | Endeavour Magazine

There are a few principles that the above initiative falls in line with, which offer a wider perspective of what they seek to achieve.

AIRTEL

The Airtel Education Initiative contributes to the UN Millennium

support to needy schools through the ‘Airtel Our School Project’.

Development Goals of universal primary education; it helps

The role of education in eradicating poverty cannot be

support local communities by working with local Governments and

overstated. Receiving an education is perhaps a child’s biggest

it puts the company in a position to make a direct and sustainable

barrier to escaping poverty. The power of education continues to

contribution to African societies where they live, enabling focused

provide benefits to subsequent generations as educated adults tend

work in the corporate social responsibility arena through adopting

to marry later in life, have healthier children, be more productive

abandoned schools as a primary focus.

at work, receive better pay in the workplace and generally enjoy

Collaborating with the Zambian Ministries of Education, Airtel

greater health.

are able to offer refurbishments of the schools and the provision

In February last year, Airtel Networks Zambia signed a

of uniforms and scholastic materials such as books, pens and texts

partnership with British Council and unveiled the Matero School

books. They have stocked the schools with furniture and provided

Digital Hub. Airtel Networks Zambia, Zambia’s biggest and most

teaching aids as well as supplying them with broadband Internet

innovative Mobile Network provider has today announced its

connection.

partnership with British council to provide free Internet connectivity

THE AIRTEL APPROACH

to selected schools countrywide.

More than 280 schools in Zambia have benefitted from the

At Airtel there is absolute belief in the quality of education being

free Internet connectivity provided by Airtel Networks Zambia

the most important tool for social and economic development in

Plc. under the British Council Connecting Classrooms programme.

the country. This is why they continue to demonstrate the true

Connecting Classrooms is a global initiative that establishes and

meaning of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through their

develops long-term, sustainable partnerships between education

WE BUILD TO LAST

www.hbc.mg

Fanantenana Raoilison Mobile: +261 330 732 522 Skype ID: fanantenana4 Email: fanantenana@hbc.mg 110 | Endeavour Magazine

authorities and schools in the UK and the rest of the world.

hubs that have been set up in various schools in Zambia since

Speaking at the launch of the partnership event, Airtel Networks

2011. Access to ICT in schools and its subsequent use in learning

Zambia Plc. Director of Corporate Communications, Government

and teaching enables international engagement, helping teachers

Relations and CSR said the high-speed broadband access provided

and students access a wide range of teaching resources through

by Airtel Network Zambia Plc. guarantees teachers and students

our interactive online platform-British Council Schools online.

limitless new educational opportunities.

“Connectivity is one of the major challenges that has been

“The Digital Hubs in schools will serve as ICT centres for

affecting the utilisation of the hubs. With this partnership in place,

teachers, students and wider communities. We would like to

Airtel Networks Zambia Plc. will provide 5GB free data per month

emphasise that Airtel Networks Zambia Plc is committed to

starting with Matero Girls Secondary school and subsequently

bridging the digital divide especially in schools where education is

scaling up to the remaining hubs. We anticipate an increase in the

key as a springboard for members of society to understand and

usage of the hubs.”

know what their basic human rights are,” Mr. Kafwariman added.

Deputy British High Commissioner Sean Melbourne said, “The

The aim is to fulfil the potential that access to wider broadband

launch demonstrates the UK’s commitment to partner not only

connectivity offers in achieving our goals. This continues Airtel’s

with countries in their economic development but with students in

CSR strategy on education and sustainable community development

their academic development. This Corporate Social Responsibility

initiatives added Mr Kafwariman.

partnership between the British Council and Airtel is an important

Speaking at the same event, British Council Zambia Country

one. These digital hubs will provide an over-arching framework for

Director, Wayne Harper, said, “The British Council is delighted to

effective use of ICT to support collaborative school partnerships

partner with Airtel in the provision of ICT connectivity in the digital

and skills development across the region and the UK. “

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STAATSOLIE SURINAME WWW.STAATSOLIE.COM 00597 499 649

GRASSROOTS TO SKY HIGH WRITTEN BY TIMOTHY WYANS

Over the past 33 years, Staatsolie has developed from a grass-roots operation into an integrated oil company that continually contributes significantly to the Surinamese economy. In July this year they were awarded a contract from Well Services Petroleum Company Limited (WSPC) from Trinidad & Tobago, to drill nine exploration wells in near shore Block 4, off the coast of Saramacca.

This advancement came about after 2D and 3D seismic surveys conducted in 2012 showed potentially recoverable oil reserves in the block.

The contract was signed on Friday 18 July, in Paramaribo, so we contacted Staatsolie for an interview as we were seeking to highlight a company with a strong ethical and employeecentric approach to business in this sector and could think of no better company to approach.

Endeavour Magazine | 113

STAATSOLIE SURINAME

We spoke with Mr. Rudolf Elias, current incoming Managing Director of Staatsolie, who has been a decisive influence in this industry for many years, “I have been with Staatsolie for six years now,” he says, “and before then I worked with BHP Billington, where I was Vice President of Development. When I came to Staatsolie it was as Business Development Director,”

H

e explains he was in charge of new projects, especially

search for which began in the early 1960s. It took a major leap

concerned with green energy and renewables such as

forward after 1980, with the setup of Staatsolie and contracts were

ethanol, hydro-projects and corporate planning. In 2010,

introduced for private companies to participate in the production

he was put in charge of the largest project they had the time; a

and refinement of the products. The country was no stranger to

refinery expansion programme, “It was a complete new refinery

this sort of attention, as they had already played host to mineral

upon an existing operating refinery,” he says, “A year later I became

miners since the early 1960s.

Director of Refinery and Marketing and was also responsible for downstream energy and power generation.”

Then, in February 2013, shareholders appointed Mr. Elias as incoming Managing Director.

A staff contingent of 1042 directly employed professionals work at Staatsolie and are supported by a further 600 people who are engaged with the business as contractors. All staff are required to adhere to the Company Code of Conduct and the key company

Now, the Republic of Suriname, with its capital city Paramaribo,

standards, which are as strict as the ISO 9001 quality norm,

is located just north of the Amazon delta on the northeast coast of

safety standards and procedures as documented in their General

South America. Virtually un-explored, there are only 22-exploration

Field Instructions. Familiarisation with these and other standards,

wells drilled in this area that covers approximately 150,000 square

policies and procedures mainly takes place during the induction

kilometres. Bordered in the north by the Atlantic Ocean, in the

period, conducted soon after joining the organisation.

west by Guyana, in the east by French Guiana and in the south by

Mr. Elias says that when he joined, there were many efficient

Brazil, Suriname is covered by tropical rain forest and remains thinly

procedures in place that had been set by employees who had gained

inhabited.

experience with other industry giants, such as BPH Billington, which

Even three decades ago, Staatsolie set out to accomplish great

had been adapted to suit Staatsolie, but what really impressed him

things, commercially, while not disrupting the local population,

was the loyalty of the staff, “They love the company,” he says, “and

which comprises of a rich ethnic blend of approximately half a

are very dedicated, doing everything it takes in order to make the

million inhabitants. Although the official language is Dutch, English

company grow. You don’t get that sort of feeling unless a company

is widely understood and spoken. Suriname is a parliamentary

deserves it.”

democracy and has an elected President heading the Government.

Speaking with the management at Staatsolie, it becomes very

Although also involved in the retail, gold mining and energy

apparent that staff development is extremely important to them.

sectors, Staatsolie is keenly focused on petroleum, the systematic

With a sizeable training budget and a liberal approach to granting

114 | Endeavour Magazine

training requests, their team has become one of the most qualified

reflection of how well they treat their customers and their business

and expert in the field. Training takes place in the classroom, as well

model further enforces the importance of developing long-term

as in one-to-one sessions conducted both in-house and beyond

relationships based upon open communication and an appreciation

their premises. New training is always being developed and the

for all feedback. They make quarterly visits to local customers and

company is currently in the process of designing a management

conduct yearly customer surveys for their international affiliates.

development program.

“Regular and honest appraisals about how well we are doing, as

Staatsolie’s People Vision marks employees as key to their success and the company invests heavily into their development by giving them opportunities to enhance their potential and further play their part in reaching the company goals.

a company, is important to continue heading in the right direction.

You need to know where you stand in the scheme of things.”

Quality has always been the anvil upon which all the other elements of Staatsolie are hammered and implementing the

Although the worldwide scarcity of specialists, such as drillers

handling of clients and customers post-sales is just as important as

and engineers, does pose a problem to the industry in general,

initially securing their custom. A team of internal experts, working

Staatsolie looks at this as more of a remuneration hurdle. They claim

in technical, laboratory and inspection areas, are on hand, at short

to now find it too difficult to identify and contract skilled people

notice, to deal with any customer queries and complaints are merely

in most of their areas of business and as most of their workforce

queries that haven’t yet been dealt with effectively and quickly.

is predominantly composed of Suriname nationals, it is a credit to their training and the education system that is available.

Staatsolie have grown in last five years from a 400 million dollar company to a billion dollar organisation and with such

Staatsolie shows its social engagement by supporting projects

growth, Mr. Elias sees a need for change, to accommodate it, “I

for sport, culture, education, healthcare, senior citizens, people

see us growing more decentralised with assets,” he says, “Currently

with disabilities and youths. Additionally, sustainable community

we’re very centralised but are outgrowing that. In the downstream

projects are supported through the ‘Staatsolie Foundation for

and upstream, we have prominent assets and this continues to

Community Development’. In the past five years, Staatsolie

grow every year and it’s becoming harder and harder to run as a

donations to the community topped more than US$ 12 million.

centralised organisation.”

Staatsolie’s approach to their staff and community is a direct

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Endeavour Magazine | 115

STAATSOLIE SURINAME

to diversify in light of the oil price flux, that they invested a lot in

consortium aims to conduct research and development relating

downstream, but in the coming five years, he would like to focus on

to the optimisation of photosynthesis in plants, for use in biofuel

developing the upstream in order to boost production from sixteen

production and the productivity of (micro) algae for use as biofuels.

to eighteen and then through to twenty thousand barrels of oil per

The research is being conducted by the Wageningen University in

day.

the Netherlands and will be completed in June 2015. To date, the

The quality of service provided is totally dependent on the

most productive algae species and the most efficient bioreactors

quality of companies that Staatsolie choose to work with and with

for the intended purpose are identified and with the rights to all

this in mind, they are highly selective in their choice of suppliers.

information from this project, Staatsolie could consider conducting

Staatsolie explain that their scope of operations is quite diverse

a feasibility study, based on the local conditions, with partners.

and so the list of suppliers varies from project to project. What

Solar Energy has been identified as a promising renewable

remains static, however, is that every project above US$20,000

energy source for Suriname, however, little research data is available

requires a selection of at least three contractors who are chosen

on the potential. Staatsolie therefore initiated a solar pilot project,

in accordance with the specific requirements of said project.

with the objective of gaining insight into the collection of energy

There is a select group of contractors who are closely related to

production data of the PV System and experience with respective

production and exploration drilling processes, which they work

solar energy system design, construction, operation performance

with continuously.

and integration with existing power systems. They would then

A balance has been found between the pool of available local and international suppliers and the quality that Staatsolie have

collect data to validate the technical and economic feasibility for future application.

built their reputation around. As an example, they point out that

The first phase of the TapaJai Project entails the re-routing of

as the suppliers are contract-specific and the maximum contract

water from the upper-Tapanahoni River and the Jaikreek to the

duration is three years. That procurement will bring in new,

Brokopondo dam, resulting in the maximised utilisation of the

qualified and competitive suppliers to keep the pool of partners

Afobaka power plant. In following phases, also called the optimised

as fresh as possible. Contractors are rated against several criteria,

phase, more electric capacity will be installed, resulting in an

which supports sustainability. For example, they have to adhere

additional estimated firm capacity of 120 MW, available to the

to the Contractor Management Guidelines, which includes criteria

national electricity grid. To date, the solution study that identifies

for their financial situation, their HRM policy and HSE policy

the optimal project configuration from a technical, economic and

and procedures. Staatsolie supports small local contractors to

socio-environmental point was completed only partially, based on

understand the criteria and implement the necessary systems and

Government advice. The project however, remains in Staatsolie’s

procedures to win tenders.

project portfolio, awaiting further Government instructions

As a major player in their industry, Staatsolie have accepted the

With constant investment into their growth, 2014 to 2018 will

mantle of being a responsible company, investing a great deal of

see Staatsolie’s investments total nearly US$2 billion. The new year

time and money into a series of ‘green initiatives’, which have made

is going to prove to be a busy and productive time for Staatsolie,

them as much a player in this industry as they are in petroleum.

with the commencement of a new refinery, a further investment of

In December 2010, they commenced with an ethanol pilot project at Wageningen in the District of Nickerie. 13 selected

US$300 million into gold mining and the building of a new ethanol and sugar plant.

varieties of sugarcane from Brazil and Guyana were planted and

The new refinery will significantly decrease Suriname’s

tested for their suitability in local soil and weather conditions and

dependence of the import of fossil fuel. The new products,

the pilot results were above expectation. Based on the pilot study,

especially diesel and gasoline, will be produced according to high

the solution and definition study was carried out and an Invitation

international standards and Staatsolie will gain significant import

To Bid (ITB) was prepared for agriculture land development and

earnings as exports will expand beyond regional borders, with

EPCC of the processing plant. In line with their standards, an

French Guiana (France) being a highly lucrative export market.

environmental and social impact study was carried out and this

On October 7th 2014, Staatsolie agreed to take over a 25%

study indicated a minimal and negligible environmental impact.

share in the Merian gold project in West Suriname. This project

This was simultaneous to suggesting a significant positive social

was carried out simultaneously with Suriname Gold Company LLC

impact, leading to the project being executed in a more phased

(Surgold), a subsidiary of Newmont. The US$300 million ethanol

manner in the coming years.

and sugar plant produces around 40 million litres of ethanol and

In February 2011, Staatsolie became a member of the

42,500 tons of sugar annually. Additionally, it also produces 24

BiosolarCells Consortium, consisting of 35 world-class companies

MW of electricity from sugarcane waste, which is transferred to

in the food, energy, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. The

the local grid of EBS, the national electricity company of Suriname.

116 | Endeavour Magazine

What excites Mr. Elias however, is the monetary rewards awaiting Suriname’s economy when his company begins drilling in near-shore Suriname, “We will be drilling in front of existing oil fields, in near-shore areas with the hope of finding commercial oil there,” he says, “We will then bring it into our treatment plants and refinery. This is expected to boost our production to, in the region of, 8,000 barrels a day.”

Last year Staatsolie partnered with a number of large companies to drill four holes in their offshore area, which is more than they have done in the last six years, “We are positive that at least one of these, if not all four will bear oil and if this happens it’ll be a complete change for Suriname.”

Such discoveries boosted production to 80,000 barrels a day and helped the economy in a massive way, even if Suriname doesn’t actually see any of the oil, as one of the country’s primary revenue earners with Staatsolie generation in the region of 10% of the GDP! “Staatsolie is in a perfect place to take our country onto a different level. Any discoveries would take several years to properly impact, but next year could be a very big step for us, so naturally we are very excited about the new year.”

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Endeavour Magazine | 117

118 | Endeavour Magazine

CENTRIQ INSURANCE WWW.CENTRIQ.CO.ZA 0027 11 268 6490

FOUNDING A COMPANY TRANSFORMATION WRITTEN BY JOHANNES KING

In 2012, when Gareth Beaver became the skipper of Centriq Insurance Company as CEO, he was focussed on not merely just towing the line for the company. Uninterested in merely continuing marginal growth, he was seeking to find that special note that would instigate a transformation within the company. Today we investigate how successful he has been.

Endeavour Magazine | 119

CENTRIQ INSURANCE

A leader in the niche insurance field and benefiting from a strong

record for growth and the ability to provide specialised insurance solutions to a vast array of industries, while not sacrificing its position in the market as a major institution, the company now known as Centriq was created from the merging of two insurance giants in 2007. The merging of Nova Risk Partners and Santam Risk Finance created an opportunity for the company to fully strategise through the market and establish an even more secure footing, with Santam becoming 100% shareholder of the company.

T

he independent insurance provider focuses on three main

market place today. There are not many areas in insurance that

areas of business; customised risk financing and alternative

Centriq is unable to reach.

risk finance solutions, underwriting management agencies

Secondly, the company’s risk finance and alternative risk

and brand affinity solutions. Beaver explained in an interview

transfer solutions business segment is what provides a full range

that the company is represented in conventional insurance space,

of self-insurance financing solutions for the conventional and

but exclusively through the UMA (Underwriting Management

non-conventional type of risks that a company faces. Here, clients

Agencies) who is responsible for the marketing, underwriting

originate from a variety of large organisations such as corporates,

and administration of specific insurance policy portfolios. Then,

parastatals, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and mid-

Centriq, provides them with access to their insurance licence,

sized commercials and associations in the agricultural sector. Each

including all the governance and regulatory compliance tools, risk

one may use the Centriq licence in a different way to self-insure

sharing mechanisms via cell captive structure, reinsurance capacity

certain things that may be uninsurable by the conventional market,

and administration services they need to successfully operate in

or simply too expensive to insure. This truly reveals the benefit of

the marketplace.

having Centriq in your corner.

What this business model provides is the accessibility to offer

Thirdly, Centriq offers brand affinity insurance solutions,

the relevant insurance solutions to their score of industry sectors

whereby it partners with non-insurance entities who want to add

that range from aviation to marine and areas of personal indemnity

to a market and sell a sold-on insurance product with a product

and medical aid gap-cover; persons living with diabetes or HIV and

that they already offer. Targeting all sectors, including non-financial

the full spectrum of motor insurance cover that is available in the

services companies who wish to provide an insurance option

120 | Endeavour Magazine

CENTRIQ INSURANCE

alongside other products. An obvious example of this would be a

related accidents, has occurred meaning that insurance companies

cell phone brand wishing to link phone handset insurance to the

and reinsurers, nationally, have produced some poor results over

sale of an air-time package; motor warranty protection for new

the last two years. It has taken Centriq to form a strategy of de-

and used vehicles and retailers selling household goods like TVs

risking in selected market segments that were under priced but it’s

and washing machines, for which they need to protect either the

still clear that the insurance industry is under pressure.

asset purchased against accidental damages or the ability of the

Not satisfied with merely keeping afloat however, Centriq can

consumer to pay their instalments after retrenchment, disability or

take stock of a number of positive changes that this period has

death.

instigated within the company. Offering new prospects for growth

These have also evolved to include insurance policies of value

that have helped the company to amplify its position as a niche

to customers such as funeral benefits or education pay out policies

insurance leader in the market place as well as adding new skills

that are linked to death or disability.

to their specialist risk financing team from accounting and banking sectors.

ASSURANCE IN INSURANCE As of this year there seems to be a never ending supply

NEW PRODUCTS FOR THE FUTURE

of obstacles and hurdles for South African companies and the

A new venture recently fell into place whereby Centriq secured

insurance industry is no different. The short-term industry has

significant capacity in the mining rehabilitation guarantee space

experienced difficult conditions in recent years. This is due in

thanks to specialist skills via a new UMA where they will be

part to the industry being over supplied with risk capital, while

the majority shareholders. This has made them able to provide

premiums are under-priced relative to the risk insured. At the

guarantees for environmental impairment liabilities, as required by

same time, an increase in incidents of large losses, such as weather

mine owners in SAs mining industry.

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Contact: Denise, Chummy, Alistair or Iola 88 Monkor Road, Randpark Ridge, Johannesburg Tel: +27 (0) 861 00 0090 Fax: 27+ (0) 861 00 0030 email: info@keu.co.za

www.keu.co.za

UNDERWRITING MANAGERS (PTY) LTD

122 | Endeavour Magazine

60790

KEU Underwriting Managers (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial services provider, FSP No. 5076. KEU products are underwritten

by Centriq Insurance Company Ltd. We partner with registered short-term insurance brokers to ensure your risk is covered.

KEU is a member of SAUMA.

Yet again this provides a niche funding solution that Centriq

To secure this particular avenue, it was necessary for Centriq

offers that not many others are able to and with these types of

to secure half a billion Rand capacity from international reinsurers

guarantees, the insurer effectively takes a credit risk on the client

to provide the mining guarantees. They also had to demonstrate

by offering it a funding mechanism that, in turn, enables it to meet

that they had the relevant expertise on board. At this stage there

the financial obligations associated with the environmental clean-

are only two other insurers in the field that are contributing in a

up requirements at the end of a mine’s lifetime.

meaningful way, meaning that there is not a lot of competition due

It goes without saying that the mining industry is one of the arenas in the world and one that transverses a number of

to the requirements of specific skills and expertise to secure the reinsurance capacity.

commodity classes. However, as mining occurs, damage the

With this in mind it means that not only does Centriq capture a

environment follows and companies are legally liable to clean up

share of this specialist product class, but they also provide a much

the site once the mining has been completed. To meet this liability

needed funding solution to a market that makes up a significant

they need to make financial provisions and that’s where Centriq is

chunk of South Africa’s gross domestic product (8.3% to be exact).

able to step in and lessen the burden of organising this.

It is this very diversity that has enable the company to grow,

There have commonly been two options available. One is to set

despite the difficult climate they find themselves in. Conventional

up a specialist trust into which contributions are made according to

insurance space is highly competitive because there are a lot of

the underlying environmental liability or, companies can try to get

players in the market, but they have founded themselves in the

an acceptable banking institution to provide a financial guarantee,

niche area and have been able to develop a sizeable head start in

for which the miner would typically need to cede certain assets to

the markets of alternative risk finance and brand affinity.

the bank. A third alternative is to turn to one of only a handful of DMR approved insurers, like Centriq, to provide such guarantees.

For the future, it would seem, the plan is to further widen this gap.

Endeavour Magazine | 123

124 | Endeavour Magazine

SANBS WWW.SANBS.ORG.ZA 0027 11 761 9000

THE EASIEST WAY TO SAVE A LIFE WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Having featured the South African National Blood Service several times in the past, Endeavour Magazine has witnessed its growth and establishment as a major force for the procurement, storage and delivery of blood in South Africa.

Endeavour Magazine | 125

SANBS

There can be no compromise when it comes to the quality of blood; nothing can be allowed to remain lax or unattended and if SANBS stands for one thing it is safety and quality. Providing the source material not only for the fight against blood diseases such as HIV, but also the life-saving gift for accident victims and new mothers, this organisation is responsible for saving lives.

R

ecently undergoing a change of leadership with a new CEO,

donors while the white donors decreased marginally from 48% to

Trevor Vroom, stepping up the plate to lead the business

47%.”

ahead into the new year and beyond with a fresh direction and

Founded in 2001, SANBS has grown impressively in the last

approach, SANBS is looking forward with praise and promise. Yes,

12 years and stayed at the very cutting edge of the technology

there is a fresh direction with changes to marketing and procedure

available to their industry. Utilising high-tech facilities and the most

but as a keystone company in a sector with many dependents,

stringent safety procedures to protect both donors and staff, they

there a number of things that will not change.

are seen world over as the leaders in their field. And as a not-for-

“The changing donor demographic if not managed correctly

profit organisation, which is free from shareholders, they are able

could see reductions in blood donations,” Trevor says, “Placing both

to re-invest any surplus made in profits back into the organisation

patients and the financial well being of SANBS at risk. This is why

to continue improving their service.

things need to evolve.”

It is a machine, which relies on donors and public campaigns

Considering that blood supply is the single most used resource

to keep the pulse moving, requiring a constant drive to keep

in every hospital worldwide it is easy to forget that it has to be

people aware of the need for blood that keeps every one of the

donated. With some South African cities sitting dubiously in the

2400 people working for SANBS very busy. The campaigns need

top five of the most violent cities in the world and with 16.6% of the

to deliver the message of the incredible need for donors, while at

country’s adults have HIV you can immediately see the challenge

the same time evoking a positive message that will attract them

that this organisation faces.

back. There is an aspect of segregation that some people feel about

However, a reliable supply of blood means that patients can

giving blood if they suffer from any number of blood ailments that

undergo surgery, women in labour can receive blood transfusions

can afflict people, but the science involved in treating blood is the

and victims of accidents or violence can get the emergency

very best available.

treatment they need. Tying together South Africa’s medical and

Donated blood does not go from one person directly into

emergency care system, the South Africa National Blood Service

another, because when somebody requires blood they often

(SANBS) acts as the guardian responsible for the collection,

require only one element of it. There is a lot more happening in

screening and distribution of the blood in South Africa.

your blood than you are aware of and the science used to separate

“SANBS has performed well during the reporting period,” Trevor

the individual parts means that a pint of blood can be used not only

explains, “Whole blood collections achieved 98% of target with

to save a life, but to conduct important research in a laboratory or

three provinces exceedinf their targets.”

stored and added to a different donor’s blood to help in medical

One of the key strategies has been to increase the black donor base from 35% by the end of the previous financial year. This target was exceeded by 3% and black donors now make up 38% of our 126 | Endeavour Magazine

and scientific endeavours. Everyone can be a donor and it is one of the easiest ways you can help save a life.

Heading into their summer and Christmas Period, SANBS are

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SANBS

bracing themselves for one of their busiest times. On both sides,

about blood donation and in turn inspiring them to encourage their

campaigns to bring blood in are matched by the public need for

parents to donate blood. The winter season campaign encourages

blood coming out and Trevor Vroom has his work cut out for him.

blood donors and potential blood donors to make time to donate in

One of the most reliable campaigns, that is rolled out across

spite of the cold weather conditions, which may affect their health

30 branches nationwide, makes use of many mobile blood banks

and lifestyles. The youth campaign aims to educate youth from

stationed in shopping centres, holiday resorts and secondary

the age of 16 to understand the value and importance of donating

schools. By making it as convenient as possible for people to say

blood, so that they can continue with the culture of donating blood

yes. This is also supported by the Government, who supports these

later in their lives”

missions with backing for their campaigns. This has enabled them

South Africa is a diverse country and one of the most complex

to gain 20% more donors than they had in 2001 when they were

social structures in Africa. With 11 official languages and nine

first founded and this marked increase represents not only the

provinces, a vast landscape of cities and rural areas to contend

success of the campaigns but the increase in the education of the

with, the planning of campaigns has to be down to the smallest

donors themselves.

margin and yet remain flexible to handle any eventuality.

“The duration of the campaigns range from a few weeks to a

“Each campaign is planned on a targeted and segmented

year, depending on the focus and implementation period of the

basis, where the strategy, history, goals, plans, and targets of each

campaign,” explains Thapelo Mokoena the marketing director at

campaign are taken into consideration,” Thapelo explains, “We

SANBS, “The goals of the campaign also differ: For example, the

rely on a mixture of creativity and strategy, including information

festive season campaign is meant to remind and mobilise blood

gathered through customer surveys, research, and direct contact

donors to donate blood during the festive period, and not only

with blood donors.”

concentrate in their busy festive lives.

The schools campaign is directed at educating school pupils

130 | Endeavour Magazine

Thapelo goes on to explain, “The best areas are the urban areas with good facilities and better living conditions, whilst the worst

areas are the rural and poor areas with minimum or no facilities, as

explains, “And the improvement and more focus on the management

it will be difficult for any individual to donate blood on an empty

and treatment of deferred blood donors, that is, blood donors who

stomach characterised by poor nutritional conditions.”

cannot donate due a condition at the time of donation such as low

As mentioned, the level of education also plays a role in

iron levels.”

influencing the donor profile, he goes on to say, as the people who

It’s also a matter of earning trust with the people of South Africa

understand the importance of blood donation would be more likely

and as we highlighted last year the two blood screening facilities in

to donate blood.

Johannesburg and Durban are some of the best in the world and

Ultimately, this is the main aim of the campaigns. With a

it is possible to screen every bag of donated blood for infection

population of 49 million inhabitants, in 2012 only 442,000 were

using state of the art testing technology. It is an expensive but vital

regular blood donors. The World Health Organisation estimates

component of the service that SANBS offers.

that only around 1% of the population give blood in most countries

Like a perpetual wheel, the need for blood supplies will never

and South Africa are not far from that. A combined approach of

stop and SANBS will hold this mantle for a long time. Ultimately it

education and availability is needed to bolster the blood supply.

is something that everyone should be involved with. If you don’t

Otherwise there could be a repeat of the 2011 crisis where a

give blood, you should.

shortage of blood had a knock-on effect for the entire medical

“Global readers can get involved through encouraging their

industry in SA. In the last article, we focussed on the importance of

friends and families to donate blood,” Thapelo informs us, “And

blood donors in SA and how different times of the year affected the

helping us to spread the education message regarding blood

supply of blood to those who need it, especially for women giving

donations.”

birth in hospitals.

“Improvements that have taken place include developing mechanisms for minimising blood wastage at hospitals,” Thapelo

Ilex SANBS Ad Half Page Dec15 (2).indd 1

Endeavour Magazine | 131

2015/12/14 4:02 PM

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Sony Introduces Latest Action Cam with Enhanced Functionality and Design

No clothing intended to be worn out of the house has any

Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging, has

business being this comfortable. Spoke London have outdone

today introduced the latest addition to its acclaimed Action Cam

themselves this time by creating trousers that are both warm

POV camera line-up, the HDR-AS50 model.

enough to handle the downright Arctic conditions that Britain

The new camera brings the benefits of Sony’s latest and most

has been forced into over the Christmas period and comfortable

innovative video technologies to more customers than ever before,

enough to not be restrictive in the areas that matter during your

including SteadyShot™ image stabilisation, smooth zoom and field

indoor capoeira practises.

angle adjustability, high-bitrate XAVC S™ video recording 4 and 4K

Chinos are the gentleman’s tracksuit pants. They are a mark

Time-lapse capture. There is also a new, smaller, lighter Live-View

of a man who has reached the enlightenment that public comfort

Remote that acts as a perfect complement to the new Action Cam.

is its own reward and purchasing a pair of chinos is, in essence,

It is offered together with the camera in a kit, model HDR-AS50R.

no different than buying a Bentley instead of a Lamborghini, or a

The new action camera features an 11.1 megapixel back-

Chesterfield instead of a cotton cushion sofa. It is a statement of

illuminated CMOS sensor paired with a ZEISS® Tessar lens and

worth and practicality. It says, “Yes, they’re chinos, yes they are

utilises SteadyShot image stabilisation to keep footage steady and

comfortable and yes they do look amazing. See how they hug my

smooth when shooting everything from motocross stunts to aerial

bottom?”

landscapes. The stabilisation system is also specially tailored to

Indeed, Spoke have provided the perfect excuse to be comfortable with a wide array of trousers available through their

reduce low amplitude vibration typically caused by radio-controlled helicopters or drones.

website http://spoke-london.com/collections/original-spokes and

New to the HDR-AS50, users can now adjust the field angle of

with a spectrum of styles and colours to compliment every man’s

a shot with ‘wide’ 1 and ‘narrow’ options available to help ensure

wardrobe and every occasion.

the scene is captured properly based on the environment. The

As a six foot five rugby player, I find that no matter what jeans I wear, they’re all skinny jeans and I find them horribly restrictive

new camera also features an enhanced 3x smooth zoom, allowing shooters to get even closer to the action during movie recording.

in the step (right up until they inevitably split at the crotch), but

Based on extensive feedback from athletes, filmmakers and

the chinos are designed with comfort, movement and aesthetic

more casual users, the HDR-AS50 offers an enhanced interface

appeasement in mind.

with larger, more intuitive icon and button operability. Additionally,

This makes them suitable for work, smart enough for a date,

the new Live-View Remote 2 acts as an extension of the camera,

comfortable enough for a day playing video games and easy to

with the ability to fully control its capabilities including start/stop

care for and wash. Wear a pair for a day and if you have to wear

recording, power on/off and more. Thanks to its versatile design,

something else afterwards you’ll notice and lament the difference.

the remote can also be attached to various accessories such as

The main issue you’ll face is never wanting to take them off.

shooting grip (model VCT-STG1) and handlebar mount (model VCT-

134 | Endeavour Magazine

Clarks Introduces Trigenic; A New Innovation Build With The Same Principles Of Simplicity As Their Iconic Desert Boot Trigenic Flex is the latest design innovation from Clarks Originals: the culmination of over 190 years’ expertise in the craft of shoemaking. With a tradition of introducing innovative footwear to the marketplace, the brand’s unconventional and sometimes radical approach has resulted in the proliferation of globally HM2) using supplied mount adaptor, or worn as a wristband using

recognised icons such as The Desert Boot and Wallabee®.

supplied strap. As with select Action Cam models, users can also

Continuing this ‘free-thinking’ design philosophy, Clarks fuses

control the AS50 with their smartphones and tablets 3 through use

a shoemaker’s craft and traditions with advanced technology and

of the PlayMemories Mobile application. The new camera also has

innovation to deliver the Trigenic Flex; an icon in the making. The

adjustable beep sounds as well as three tally lights on the top, front

Trigenic Flex is a beautifully crafted and truly original everyday

and back to allow greater awareness of recording settings in bright

shoe with a design that is deconstructed to create a minimal and

or noisy environments.

fresh look.

The HDR-AS50 model is compatible with the high bitrate XAVC

The Trigenic Flex takes inspiration from an original 1883 Clarks

S format 4, allowing it to capture all scenes with impressive detail

Hygiene design; stylish shoes that were shaped to the natural

and resolution and has a time-lapse capture feature that shoots

contours of the foot, a great contrast to the seriously uncomfortable

still images in pre-set intervals. The images can then be turned into

and deforming fashions of the time. Prad Indrakumar, Senior

a stunning 4K time-lapse movie utilising the Action Cam Movie

Designer, Clarks Originals, states:

Creator software 5. The Action Cam App can also create time-lapse movies in Full HD 6.

Additionally, Sony’s own in-built movie creator – Highlight Movie Maker – is available in the AS50 model. The innovative feature, which now utilises face detection technology, automatically

“We started by looking at the Clarks ‘Hygienic’ collection of 1883. This was a collection that allowed space for the toes of your foot to move as you walked - revolutionary for its time. We looked at how we could bring this into a modern context.”

Advanced

knowledge

of

biomechanics,

materials

and

assembles a video highlight package that can be viewed, paired

contemporary construction methods have been brought together

with custom music.

to create a design-led shoe that flexes in sync with the natural

The HDR-AS50 comes with a large range of accessories

sequence of motion. An anatomical last shape has been slimmed

including a supplied underwater housing MPK-UWH1 that is

down and combined with a three-part decoupled sole unit, to

certified down to 197 ft. / 60m in depth. An optional cap clip

support each stage of impact, deconstructed uppers crafted from

accessory (AKA-CAP1) is a perfect fit to any casual uses from travel

premium leather panels, cut, angled and interlocked for optimum

to fishing.

comfort.

The new Sony HDR-AS50 Action Cam will be sold for about

Super-modern styling, a classic moccasin construction and a

$299 CAD ($299.99 CAD) and is packaged with the Underwater

pioneering attitude defines this modern take on the Clarks heritage.

Housing MPK-UWH1. The HDR-AS50R adds the new Live-View

Trigenic Flex is a game-changing new style that brings cutting edge

Remote and will cost about $449 CAD. ($449.99 CAD)

shoe engineering, traditional craftsmanship and modern design

Both products will be available next month at Sony authorised dealers nationwide.

together to create a totally unique shoe with both substance and style.

Endeavour Magazine | 135

TRAVEL

GEOCACHES AND HERMIT CAVES

BY WILL HATTON

136 | Endeavour Magazine

F

rozen air slipped through my many layers of clothing,

a cloud of chilled vapour. Snowflakes clung to my beard.

numbing my entire body with cold. The snow was falling

I looked up. The church loomed above us, with battered and

thick and heavy now; endless waves of wispy white flakes

chipped frescoes of saints decorating its walls like scenes from

danced around me as the icy winds scattered them in all

a nativity. Slowly we wandered through it, the echoes of our

directions. Below, in the small town of Goreme, the Muslim call

footsteps bouncing off the domed ceiling. This was not what

to prayer rose into the air hauntingly and then echoed across

we were looking for. We left and began to scramble higher still,

the land. Ahead, Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys poked

searching for shelter from the howling wind. We slid down a

upwards into the silvery sky like the prying fingers of giants.

gully. Beads of crystallised water sparkled atop crisp blades of

Doggedly, my brother and I stomped our way through the

hardy grass poking through the snow.

streets of melted slush. We trekked to the edge of town and beyond, then stopped a moment to look back.

Then I spotted it. A small doorway, only a foot and a half wide, carved into one of the tallest fairy chimneys. It did not look

But our pause was brief; we were on a mission. Slipping and

like it could lead to much. Many of the caves had magnificent

sliding, jeeving and jiving, we made our way up the icy road.

entrances smeared with runes and carvings but this one was

The soft rocks of Cappadocia have been inhabited for millennia,

lacked any such grandeur.

first by troglodytes and later by the Hittites who created vast

Trudging my way across to the entrance I squeezed through

underground cities that could shelter up to 20,000 people from

the narrow passageway. As it dwindled to an end I looked up

invading enemy forces. Later, Christians fleeing persecution

and saw a circular entrance directly above me. It seemed to

from the Roman Empire established a number of monastic

beckon me onwards. I heaved my way through it and found

communities in Cappadocia and set about carving churches and

myself rising through the floor of a small living space. A hermit’s

living quarters into the rocks. From the road, I spotted one such

cave.

Church nestled within the hills.

Alex emerged through the entrance behind me and for a

Pulling our jackets tight around us we set off towards it,

while we sat in silence, soaking in the quiet tranquillity of the

ploughing a fresh path through the snow. We followed a goat

place. The walls had been carefully sculpted - a graceful arch

trail, scrambling on hands and knees upon the slick ice. Boulders

dominated the room and in one blackened corner was a small

were strewn across the undulating path like ancient sentries,

window that offered a porthole glimpse of the outside world.

still and silent. If they could speak, I wondered what things

Across from it, a much larger opening in the walls offered a

they would say they had witnessed over the centuries. Any real

portrait like view of the rolling lands ahead. This window was

footpath, if there was one, was buried deep beneath the snow

the size and shape of a door but led out to a sheer drop. Nooks

and we quickly became lost among the labyrinth of rocks and

adorned the walls, for candles I was sure.

ice. We sheltered beneath a tree with icicles for leaves as we pondered our next move.

Then we set off once more. Opting for the most direct route, rather than the easiest one, we began to climb a steep slope

I gazed around the room and pondered the life of the man who had lived here. Was he running from something? Or was he looking for something? Maybe both. Perhaps he was one of the world’s first backpackers…

of gravel, snow and treacherous frost. We slipped often and

We sat upon the main window ledge, our feet dangling over

soon became covered in dirt and ice. Finally, wrapping my hand

oblivion and soaked in the enchanting scenery. In seven years

around a decent sized tree root, I hauled myself up onto the lip

of travelling I had never seen anything quite like this. It was like

of the escarpment. I knelt, the cold seeping through my jeans as

something out of a fairy-tale. Endless jagged rocks twisted up

I watched my frozen breath disperse into the air before me like

into the golden amber sky for as far as the eye could see, a

Endeavour Magazine | 137

138 | Endeavour Magazine

thick layer of crystal white

geocaches to hunt for and, of course, Cappadocia’s famous

snow draped across them,

balloon rides, this is the ideal destination for explorers short

cape-like. Way below us, ant sized

on time…

horses jostled in a paddock. I could hear running water coming

How to find my Geocache in Cappadocia: Walk to the

from some place nearby. Once more, the Muslim call to prayer

bottom of town in Goreme where you will hit a roundabout.

summoned the devout, song like and beautiful.

With your back to town, turn right, walk about one hundred and

I said a prayer of my own, wrote it on a piece of paper and

fifty meters along the road and you will pass a potter’s workshop

then set it alight with my zippo. I watched it burn, turning into

then a quad bike rental place. From the road, look right, you are

glowing embers flowing from my hand. For a moment they

looking for a large doorway about three hundred meters off the

hovered before me spiralling on a current of air and then they

road. This is the church. Make your way towards it; the hike will

went scattering across the heavens in every direction. The

take roughly 20 minutes. When standing in front of the church,

clouds rolled across the sky like immense boulders as we sat for

turn right and walk 50 metres, you will have to go down a slope

hours and discussed religion, the meaning of life and our plans

and then back up the slope on the other side. You may be able

for the future. It seemed as though we were locked within a

to see the main window from the hermit’s cave but to get to the

time capsule, separated from the outside world. The town we

entrance; you have to go round the back. I explored hundreds

could see but it felt as distant as another realm. Up here there

of caves in Cappadocia, this is the best one.

was only rock and sky.

There was no doubt in my mind that this was the perfect

If you find my geocache in Cappadocia, take something, leave something and sign the book.

place. This was where I would hide my geocache, a lunchbox from home filled with treasures. I glanced around and settled upon a small ledge above the window. It fit perfectly. Inside I placed mementos from my childhood. A star-wars action figure (one of Jabba’s less than competent skiff guards), fossils from Dorset, quartz from my stone-collecting days, a game of thrones playing card, Broke Backpacker wristbands, a poem, an electronic candle and finally, a notebook for adventure-seekers to sign their names upon.

One day I shall go back to collect it. When I do, I hope it will

About Will Hatton: Writer and photographer. Adventurer

be filled with the stories and thoughts of adventurers from all

and vagabond. Master of the handstand pushup. Conqueror

over the world. Until then it is out there, waiting for you…

of mountains, survivor of deserts and crusader for cheap

Cappadocia offers truly amazing opportunities, with flights

escapades. Will is currently preparing to hitchhike from

via Istanbul available very cheaply, it is possible to go on a

England to Papua New Guinea, a journey which will take over

genuine adventure here even if you only have a couple of days

18 months. Will blogs over at The Broke Backpacker about his

to spare.

adventures in some of the world’s least visited countries, you

With hotels carved into the rock, world-renowned trekking,

can follow him on Facebook and on Twitter.

Endeavour Magazine | 139

THE OBEROI GROUP PROMISES UNPARALLELED LUXURY ON THE NILE ONBOARD THE OBEROI PHILAE The Oberoi Group announced that The Oberoi Philae, Luxury

“We are pleased to present The Oberoi Philae, Luxury Nile Cruiser,

Nile Cruiser, Egypt will sail between Aswan and Luxor, offering a

which offers the highest standards of luxury and hospitality. The

four and six-night itinerary. The Group already operates another

Oberoi Group has been consistently recognised as amongst the

luxury cruiser, The Oberoi Zahra and will be increasing its presence

best in the world and I am confident that The Oberoi Philae, Luxury

on the Nile with The Oberoi Philae.

Nile Cruiser will continue this tradition and offer travellers an

Adding to the luxury provided by The Oberoi Zahra, The Oberoi

unparalleled experience on the Nile”.

Philae will offer guests unrivalled views of the River Nile, as they

Mr. Mahmoud Nourelden, Boat Manager, The Oberoi Philae,

experience the legendary Oberoi service and explore 5,000 years

Luxury Nile Cruiser added, “The luxury Nile cruiser will offer the

of Egyptian culture.

discerning traveller an oasis of tranquillity with service which is

Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group said, 140 | Endeavour Magazine

warm, intuitive and personalised. We are confident that the cruiser

will add tangible value to the hospitality sector in the Egypt.�

The luxury cruiser will feature some of the most spacious accommodation on the Nile. The 22 luxuriously appointed cabins and suites feature large French windows that offer picturesque views of the River Nile. The cruiser also incorporates the latest technology including high speed WiFi. The restaurant offers extraordinary culinary options of Western, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine with uninterrupted views of

the poolside restaurant. The cruiser is also home to a chic bar and cigar lounge that is furnished with intimate tables, a dance floor and a state-of-the-art movie theatre.

The 24-hour gymnasium offers stunning views to accompany a workout, as does The Oberoi Spa. The Oberoi Philae, luxury Nile Cruiser gives travellers the added opportunity to experience the group’s award-winning hospitality, making it the preferred choice for discerning leisure travellers.

the Nile. At the Upper Deck, home to a temperature-controlled swimming pool, guests can enjoy lunch, light meals and snacks at Endeavour Magazine | 141

BOOK REVIEWS

The Buried Giant

by Kazuo Ishiguro The extraordinary new novel from the author of Never Let Me Go and the Booker Prize winning The Remains of the Day. The Romans have long since departed and Britain is steadily declining into ruin, but at least the wars that once ravaged the country have ceased.

The Buried Giant begins as a couple, Axl and Beatrice, set off across a troubled land of mist and rain in the hope of finding a son they have not seen for years. They expect to face many hazards some strange and other-worldly - but they cannot yet foresee how their journey will reveal to them dark and forgotten corners of their love for one another.

Sometimes savage and often intensely moving, Kazuo Ishiguro’s first novel in a decade is about lost memories, love, revenge and war.

‘Kazuo Ishiguro is an original and remarkable genius.’

The New York Times ‘A master craftsman.’

Margaret Atwood, Slate ‘The best and most original writer of his generation.’

Susan Hill, Mail on Sunday

142 | Endeavour Magazine

Invisible Chains.

A Book Tackling Domestic Abuse, Head On.

by Dr. Lisa Aronson Fontes A new law has now come into effect in England and Wales making coercive control punishable by up to five years in prison.

[1] This legislation is a bold move and strengthens the UK’s stance against domestic violence.

Dr. Fontes is the premiere expert on coercive control. A professor, researcher and popular conference speaker, she has counselled domestic violence survivors for more than 25 years. Her new book, Invisible Chains: Overcoming Coercive Control in Your Intimate Relationship, is the first of its kind and sheds important light on this difficult subject.

“The new domestic violence law in the UK appears to offer new ways to protect women against the control, manipulation, sexual

Attraction Explained

by Suzie Hayman How much do you really know about attraction?

“With precision and no small wit, I found myself frequently laughing out loud. The author explores the four key factors that shape the formation of most relationships: proximity, appearance, reciprocity and similarity. As he shows, studying attraction or relationships scientifically, far from destroying the magic and mystery of it all, can actually be helpful, whether you aspire to be lover or friend. He also satisfyingly nails my biggest bête noir that ‘treat ‘em mean’ is any sort of relationship advice.”

– Suzie Hayman, agony aunt, relationship counsellor, accredited TripleP (Positive Parenting Programme) parenting educator, broadcaster and author.

We’ve all done it at some point, read a self-help book, a glossy magazine or looked to a ‘pick-up artist’ for relationship advice, especially as Valentine’s Day approaches. Yet the modern-day myths of attraction we’ve grown accustomed to, such as ‘treat ‘em mean to keep ‘em keen’, often have no basis in fact and are often rooted in misogyny. In Attraction Explained, Viren Swami debunks these myths and draws on cutting-edge research to provide groundbreaking and evidence-based accounts of relationship formation.

“There’s no real evidence that studying attraction scientifically makes it any less enthralling,” explains the author. “In fact, a scientific approach to attraction and relationships often raises new questions that need answering, uncovering mystery among everyday or mundane behaviour.”

There is one simple idea at the core of this book, that there are coercion, and isolation that so often forms the everyday basis of couple violence and deprives women of their liberty.” Says Dr. Fontes. “The physical violence usually occurs much less frequently in a relationship of domination.”

Many people are unclear on the definition of coercive control because it can be so hard to recognise, but it is generally defined as a pattern of emotional abuse that includes methods of degrading, isolating, micromanaging, manipulating and stalking. Dr Fontes says “coercive control is a special kind of torment because it often feels like love.”

no ‘laws of attraction’ and no fool proof methods or strategies for getting somebody to date you, let alone into bed with you. Instead, Attraction Explained looks at how factors such as geography, appearance, personality and similarity affect who we fall for and why.

“The science of attraction and relationship formation can’t guarantee you a date tonight” jokes Viren, “but it can point the way towards forming mutually benefitting relationships with other people.”

Engaging and easy to read, Attraction Explained shows how we form relationships and why we shouldn’t resort to nonsensical beliefs in our search for love.

Endeavour Magazine | 143

SPOTLIGHT

BRIAN HAZARD HAZARDING A GUESS AT THE FUTURE OF MUSIC

BY DONNIE RUST

A

major influence on musicians around the world, the icon of

So many changes have affected music as an industry and with

countless fans, a powerful figure in his industry and a hell of a

audience tastes changing frequently, it’s become the responsibility

nice guy, I caught up with Brian Hazard to ask some questions

of artists to keep up to date and we were interested to find out

about the man behind Color Theory.

how Brian manages it.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, 46-year-old Brian Hazard is a singer,

“I can only speak for myself, but I know my tastes have changed

keyboardist and songwriter playing under the stage name (read

even more than most middle-aged guys,” he explains, “I know

alter ego) of Color Theory. Under this guise he has released eight

some of them still listen to the music they loved in high school

studio albums, nine EPs, three remix collections and a set of demos.

but I make it a rule to only listen to music less than two years old,

His latest EP, Adjustments Pt.3 was released on November 13th of

which provides fresh inspiration in the most ‘current’ areas while

last year and 2016 is going to be an incredibly busy year for this

remaining true to your sound.”

artist.

Highly creative and collected, Brian’s signature sound combines

Moving from Ohio to Huntington Beach, California at age

80’s synth-pop, modern EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and

seven, Brian began playing the piano at 13, and joined a high

classical piano. However, he does admit that as the owner and head

school drumline and jazz band. This “relatively late start” as he calls

engineer of his company, Resonance Mastering, that he spends

it, hardly held him back and he received a Bachelor of Music degree

most of his time producing music for others rather than himself.

in Piano Performance from California State University, Long Beach in 1992.

144 | Endeavour Magazine

It may mean more work at the moment than pleasure, but it has opened important doors allowing him to actively be involved

in things he feels are important,

for many other musicians, or production companies and business leaders their answers are usually

“Recently, I took part in a charity

lofty expansions of what they think they should say and not necessarily the truth. Brian’s answer was

effort through Groupees, where

simple, direct and all encompassing:

we delivered 1878 meals to the hungry via the United Nations

“My current focus is pleasing my ‘super fans’,” he explains, “The ones who have stuck with me over the years are more important to me than attracting new fans.”

World Food Programme,” he

In a world where the quantity of online presence is more important to some artists and business

says, “I am also in the position

people than quality, Brian is quite open about his take on things. It’s something that can be so easily

to be able to focus on my super

overlooked today, where one of the ways we judge a person’s worth is through their popularity online,

fans.”

but quantity does not equate to quality.

SUPERFANS

industry is the shift towards streaming subscription services like Spotify, which pay notoriously, yet

Quality of fans is especially important today, he explains, “The biggest change in the music During our interview I asked Brian about a summary of his activities. This is a question I always ask my interviewees and

146 | Endeavour Magazine

understandably, little to the artists that their platforms are built on. The demand for CD and vinyl is diminishing to the point where it’s tough for me to even break even on a physical release.”

The bottom line, he says, “Is that I don’t expect to sell music for much longer. Fans only buy my releases to support me. It’s an act of patronage.”

SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT Having seen the industry prior to the digital revolution and being so firmly entrenched in it now, Brian is still the first to confess that there is a lot of room for improvement on that front of engaging with his followers.

“Replying to the public on social media takes hours of my time every week, when I really should spend more of that time engaging

game Just Dance Kids 2014. More recently, I worked with German trance producer Matt Mancid and a singer from Faded Paper Figures on a cover of the Pet Shop Boys classic “Rent”.”

“Matt and I are still working together to produce more covers, which is a fantastic deal for me,” he adds, “I just have to sing!”

THE YEAR AND BEYOND

with those that are genuinely invested in what I’m doing,” he

“The top item of interest is the release of my 9th full-length

explains, “Right now I’ve got a mailing list and website that I’d like

album, Adjustments. It will feature 11 of the best original tracks

to be a lot more active with.”

from the three EPs I released over the past couple years. Right now

“It can be overwhelming,” he continues, “After-launch promotion and interaction is crucial, but as rude as it feels I should probably ignore a healthy percentage of the messages I receive.”

I’m leaning towards a signed, limited edition CD release. One last hurrah for physical media!” Brian says.

Next is his ongoing collaboration with Matt Mancid, which he

He explains, “It’s sad but true; most people who engage with

explains will likely culminate in a release sometime this year, or

you on Twitter have little interest in what you’re doing but you have

maybe next, “I haven’t mentioned it to my fans at all, because Matt

to sift through them find the people who do. Those are the people

and I have no conditions or expectations. We’re just having fun

worth your time. The hard part is training yourself to know the

with it.”

difference and act on it.”

2016 will also bring an investigation into and potential move to

Speaking about pre and post launches Brian admits that he

a different model, both for record sales and fan engagement, “Time

has never really observed the typical album cycle and has never

spent coming up with snarky replies on Twitter would better be

promoted to the press a couple of months early the way that the

spent making new music or getting feedback from actual fans so

labels have to do, “When the album is done, I release it. My focus

right now I’m taking a hard look at Patreon, which would allow fans

has always been direct-to-fans.”

to buy my music on a per-song basis, and allow me to engage with

I asked if this was part of a strategy to keep him ahead of the

those fans, all on the same platform.”

competition and he explained, “The way I look at it, I don’t have any

This could constitute a complete shift and a new age of creativity

competition. Why should other artists or labels be competition?

for Brian as he explains, “Releasing the Adjustments album will give

It’s not a zero-sum game where we’re all competing for the same

me the flexibility and agility I’ve been looking forward to for the

limited resources and it is important that fans are allowed to

past couple of years. Instead of focusing on a massive multi-year

support multiple artists.”

project, I can test out new ideas on my fans, and build from there

Brian may feel that he could do more to engage with his fans,

on a song-by-song basis.”

but he involves his fans on so many different levels through his

CAUTION

website, mailing list and social media.

Exercising caution in some factors of this new era of fan

“For example, I recently created a survey for my ‘super fans’ to

patronage is important, however. Brian has spent a long time

select which tracks would be included on my next album. There was

developing a relationship with his fans and is always mindful of

a near-tie between two tracks, so I created a poll on Twitter, where

finding ways to develop this and avoiding ways that could hurt it.

579 people voted. On my previous album, I presented my fans with

“Expenses is an example,” he says, “My music making expenses

30 short production ideas, and they chose the ones I ultimately

are negligible. I already have the studio and gear. It’s basically a

developed into songs. That’s why it’s called social networking, fans

matter of upgrading and buying new software when the fancy

like being involved!”

strikes me. That’s why I’ve never attempted to put together a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for an album. It would seem a

WORKING TOGETHER Music is fun; something that Brian is quick to point out. When so many industries have to adjust or completely change traditional revenue services to keep businesses afloat, it’s important to remember why you started something in the first place, “Music is fun,” he says, “And most musicians would still do it even if they weren’t getting paid.”

little dishonest.”

“Furthermore, promotion expenses are limited as well,” he adds, “Mostly just an occasional Facebook promoted post here and there, my mailing list service and that sort of thing. It would be fun and educational to hire a PR firm, but I don’t see myself doing it anytime soon. I never wanted to take over the world.”

It might be too late for that Brian.

And it has been a busy and fun time for Brian he reveals, “I’ve had the chance to record and produce three tracks for the Ubisoft

Endeavour Magazine | 147

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