March 2014
www.endeavourmagazine.com
BEN SAUNDERS
BROADWAY BAKERIES
GRU INTERNATIONAL UK £4.95 CAN $7.95 USA $7.95 -1- | THE EUR €5.95 ELEMENTS SA ZAR 69.00
INSPIRED BY YOUR SUCCESS
EDITORIAL Heads of Departments Editor in Chief Daemon Sands daemonsands@littlegatepublishing.com Director General Don Campbell doncampbell@littlegatepublishing.com
S
tart the way you intend to finish.
as
When I was playing rugby as a
Businesses such as Parmalat, the
victories
worth
applauding.
youth this was the mantra that
South African dairy company who have
was driven into me on every occasion.
taken great steps to ensure the safety
Start as you intend to finish. It was
of their staff at all costs, or Broadway
Sales Director James Martin jamesmartin@littlegatepublishing.com
about possessing the right attitude,
Bakeries who, through family values
the diligence of spirit and the strength
and a strong mandate of customer
Sales Manager Tyler Harrison tylerharrison@littlegatepublishing.com
of character to see what you start
service and satisfaction have grown
through to the end.
to be one of the major employers and
Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com
Businesses rely on this mantra just
the leading bread producer in Kenya.
as much. Entrepreneurs, or rather,
When beginning their business these
successful entrepreneurs do not begin
companies shared a common, uniting
a venture with the belief that it will
vision which is still their main guidance
fail. Instead their conduct suggests
today.
that they already have the millions
Granted, there are businesses that
Editorial Research Manager Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com
Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
that a successful business could
manage to succeed by weasiling their
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generate and that further success and
way through political and economic
prosperity is guaranteed and assured.
loopholes and manage to grow and
When Ben Saunders and Tarka
expand while still treating their
L’Herpiniere set off into the great
staff like cattle, however in the long
white of Antarctica in October 2013
term these businesses serve only as
343 City Road Kings Lane London Norwich EC1 V1LR NR1 3PS Littlegate Publishing Ltd does not accept responsibility for omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part of this
to complete the ill-fated expedition of
fodder to prove a simple fact. That in
Captain Scott, they did not do so with
whatever journey or adventure you
the belief that they would fail or even
have to start as you intend to finish
that they would share the fate of their
and make every moment in between
previous-counterparts, they knew the
count.
facts and were confident that their
Please enjoy our latest edition, enjoy
attitude and preparation would carry
St Patricks Day and see you next
them through to their goal.
month,
In this issue of the magazine we’re
Kindest
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 © Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2014
looking at heroes, not only of the likes of the adventurer Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere but also the business leaders who count the day to day successes of their business
Endeavour Magazine | 3
CONTENTS
FEATURES 26 30 34 40 46 52 62 68 74 80 86 92 98 106 112 120
92
Lifetime Solutions 4 | Endeavour Magazine
Parmalat South Africa Extra Mature Resolution Caribbean Shipping Agencies Ltd Keeping The Crew Together CL Marine Limited Smooth sailing BORCO An Expansion Success Story For The Bahamas Oil Refining Company ALUPCO Heavy Metal Broadway Bakeries Home Grown, Home Baked Standard Chartered Bank Setting the Standard IMQS Unlocking Municipal Value One Asset At A Time Royal Canin Creating Something Worth Leaving Behind A Van Der Walt Transport Connecting Landlocked Sub-Saharan Countries To The Rest Of The World KenGen Kenya’s Powerhouse Lighting up Kenya Lifetime Solutions A busy 2014 GRU International Airport Widening The Doors To Brazil GLS Consulting Keeping The Water Flowing ENPPI Doing Everything Right African Modular Building Solutions
106
GLS Consulting ARTICLES 6 10 12 14 16 18 19 20 24 126 130
Scott’s Expedition Terra Nova Antarctica Is Beaten Shamrocks & Guinness How St Patrick’s Day Is The Best Form Of Marketing In The World Seek & Ye Shall Fund Love Letter To Audi Q7 Skoda Octavia: A Perfect All-Rounder Gadgets Apps Headlines Top O’ The Holiday To Ya In Ireland Carl “Foggy” Fogarty Committed To Winning Book Reviews
34
CL Marine
Endeavour Magazine | 5
Scott’s Expedition
TERRA NOVA ANTARCTICA IS BEATEN BY DONNIE RUST
I
magine the cold. Minus fifty degrees, cold enough to freeze boiling
breaking-long-distance skier, with five North Pole expeditions behind
water instantly. Picture the environment, a white, alien landscape
him and is the youngest man to solo ski to the North Pole and he still
shocking in its beauty and its icy indifference to life. Imagine, if you
holds the record for the longest Arctic journey by a Briton. Since
can, the blinding white landscape, inhospitable to anything but the
2001, he has skied 1,860miles (3000km) across the high Arctic which
most ardent creatures and then imagine having 1800 miles to walk
equates to about 2% of his entire life living in a tent!
knowing that this very journey has never been completed successfully
“I’ve always had a passion for the outdoors,” he relates fondly,
and has killed everyone who has tried. Imagine knowing all of this and
“Although I didn’t have the best start as an athlete. I was the podgy kid
still doing it.
who was picked last for the football team.”
Make no mistake. When Ben Saunders, accompanied by Tarka
However he discovered mountain biking in his teens and that led
L’Herpiniere left for the expedition that cost the lives of Captain
him to compete on and off road, this took him to run seven marathons
Robert Falcon Scott and his entire team in 1913, he knew all the
including New York and London and three ultamarathons. It would
facts and went in completely prepared physically, spiritually and
appear that his main competitor has always been himself, something
psychologically and certain that the chances of his success were
defined very early when he spent four months walking and climbing in
stacked against him. He knew that there was every potential to fail
the Nepalese Himalayas when he was nineteen.
and that failure could very well mean cost him his life.
Yet, his latest adventure, perhaps an opportunity to prove that
But, Ben Saunders was made for this.
nature is not the master of man, was to retrace the route taken by
Born in 1977, Ben is a record setting polar explorer and a record-
Captain Scott a hundred years ago. Leaving October 2013, the two
6 | Endeavour Magazine
British men, Ben Saunders and
even his usual level of endurance,
Crucially this also gave them
Tarka L’Herpiniere set off to walk
developed after so much time
the opportunity to see how the
lying on a sled.)
from the Coast of Antarctica to
training and skiing in the North
pair got on as a team under a
Mental
the South Pole and back. The
Pole, was not enough for this
bit of pressure in some harsh
something that Ben takes very
1795 mile Terra Nova route was
expedition:
conditions. Ben relates that
seriously. To help develop his
completed in 105 days.
Preparation
“In
terms
of
deadweight of two Rugby props preparation
is
physical
the physical training, which had
mental strength and his powers
preparation the really key piece
included a 12 month cardio and
of visualization to deal with the
was a training expedition we
strengthening regime leading up
lack of stimulus over the four
Thanks to a lifestyle that
went on in Greenland in early
to their departure was also really
months in Antarctica he dabbled
has demanded so much of him
2013,” Ben explains, “We set
important.
in meditation as a potential
physically, Ben strikes as a man
across Iceland in our trusty Land
“You have to have the
resource, but says frankly, “There
who knows exactly what he
Rover before flying to Greenland
strength, in particular at the
is nothing like the real thing.
is capable of and his personal
for three weeks last May and it
beginning to haul our 200kg
Nothing could have prepared
worth. That’s the sort of prize
was a unique chance for Tarka
loads,” Ben says, “But by the
me for the full extent of what
you win after conquering the
and I to experience similar
end our bodies were so frail our
Antarctica threw at us or the
world’s harshest environment.
conditions, to trial gear, clothing,
minds took over.”
mental depths we had to reach
But Ben is quick to point out that
food and strategies.”
(200kg is like dragging the
to.”
Endeavour Magazine | 7
What Motivates A Person To Do This? Inspired from a young age by stories of explorers and adventurers testing their mettle against
nature
Ben
began
planning his first expedition in his late teens when he was working for John Ridgway in the Scottish Highlands. As far as inspiration is concerned, John Ridgway proved to be a fantastic role model. “John having rowed across the Atlantic in a wooden boat with Chay Blythe in 1966 and he also broke records in non-stop, round-the-world sailing,” Ben says, “So I blame him for a lot of it.” Captain Scott is an iconic British explorer whose exciting life story is often represented to the public by his last failed expedition
with
not
much
knowledge about what came before, “Scott’s childhood hero of mine and completing his expedition is a lifelong ambition.”
Scott’s Expedition Retracing
Scott’s
original
1911-12 route, Ben Saunders started at Scott’s Hut on the north shore of Cape Evans on Ross Island, from here they traversed the Ross Ice Shelf, before climbing nearly 8000ft on one of the world’s largest glaciers, the Beardmore Glacier, on to the Antarctic Plateau. From
8 | Endeavour Magazine
“
Antarctica, where the hurricane and the blizzard are born” Captain Scott.
there onwards they walked to
subjects like the best clothing to
expedition was being able to
the South Pole, on foot.
wear in Antarctica, which skies
share their journey on a live,
and sleds are the best and the
realtime manner. Not only the
training required.
preparation
Walking is hardly a suitable
word. Firstly walking 900 miles
but
the
actual
straight, then turning around
“…these are the biggest sleds
and walking is gruelling enough
I have ever seen,” he says in one
“We worked very closely
before even considering having
of the videos where he has a look
with Intel to develop a system
to drag a 200kg sleigh behind
at the custom designed sleds for
that allowed us to do just this,”
you. The sleighs are particularly
the first time and you can see the
he explains, “This meant taking
important in this because it
nervous excitement in his eyes.
a Sony VAIO® Pro Ultrabook
means you have to always walk
“We had to take everything
and a Panasonic Toughbook AX2
at bent over angle, with every
needed to survive for the 105
2-in-1 Ultrabook connected to
step being a push. You’re wearing
day journey, from start to finish
a modified Iridium Pilot satellite
skis and although the ice looks
and a lot of effort was put into
system to provide a new level
smooth, at that altitude and
ensuring that our kit was as
of internet connection. This
temperature it’s not.
lightweight as possible,” he tells
allowed us to share images and
us, “But the sled starting weight
video regularly throughout the
was still 200kg.”
expedition making this a truly
Ben
was
adamant
on
capturing the entirety of his preparation online through his Youtube Channel, opening up the experience to the entire world. In this he’s able to expand on certain
The Adventure An important aspect of their
journey itself.
21st Century expedition.” There
is
a
looming
difference between preparing for
something
and
actually
finding yourself standing on the Antarctic shelf, Ben continues
conditions got worse.” “However,
sometimes
The
expedition’s
Patron,
all
Captain Scott’s grandson, Falcon
to explain. Physically the trek
I could muster was to get one
Scott was quoted on saying, “…
itself was a moment to moment
foot in front of the other,” he
Expeditions to Antarctica are
slog through aching legs, lack
adds, “At other times I spent the
important to keep alive a sense
of breath and the never-ending
day taking myself on journeys to
of adventure and to inspire our
white with occasional breaks
some of my favourite places, for
young people today to achieve.
for filming and “vlogging” and
example cycling in Majorca or
The
Scott
Expedition
is
a
frequently extreme weather of
“Good question!” he exclaims, “I’m going to let completing this
family. There are a few exciting
the ice, Tarka and I,” Ben says,
things on the horizon though
speaking about the people he
that I’ll be talking about before
was in contact with, “We were in
too long on @polarben on
daily contact with our expedition
Twitter and I have some emails to
was
catch up with that landed on my
managing things on the ground
website
back in London.” When Captain Scott was
Ben also revealed that he would like to write a book and
he was quoted on saying that
maybe be involved on a film
Hurricanes and Blizzards were
about what he and Tarka have
born in Antarctica, but it was
just accomplished. Both of which
a century later that scientists
his many admirers will be eager
discovered that the Antarctic cold was so fierce it created a
walking in Scotland, wandering
magnificent tribute to Scott and
different kind of ice never seen
through the streets of London
his men...’
before.
and thinking about family and
Having
All of this and more must
friends. Wondering what else
completed
have been swirling around in his
was going on in the world beyond
believed to be an impossible
head during the long hours of
our vast white expanse…”
journey, Ben Saunders and Tarka
successfully what
L’Herpiniere
simply entitled “Hauling Extreme
home as heroes to the millions
Success
have
sceptics
walking, which one of the videos,
returned
of people around the globe
better than any amount of words.
Captain Scott would be proud
who they have given a taste of
“I found music really helped
of Ben and Tarka for completing
adventure and probably do not
to keep me going,” Ben tells
this expedition, accomplishing
fully comprehend the manner in
us, “Usually electronic music
something that nobody else has
which they have inspired people
that got more frenetic as the
ever done.
to do something great.
to get their hands on. And what advice does Ben have for the next generation of budding adventurers? “Get
out
there
and
follow your dreams but don’t underestimate the challenges you will face along the way but stick with it,” he says, “It’s worth it in the end.”
urite me of my favo o s to s y e rn u self on jo ay taking my
“I spent the d
www.scottexpedition.
com. So a lot of catching up to do.”
planning the expedition in 1910
Weight Across Ice” illustrates
going to top this?
some time with friends and
“It was just two of us on
who
for Ben Saunders, how is he ever
looking forward to spending
to keep things interesting.
Andy,
Having started 2014 in such a fashion, what is on the horizon
expedition sink in first… and am
a likes few of us could appreciate
manager,
Beyond The Bottom Of The World
places
ily and friends.”
m and thinking about fa
Photo credits: 1-3: Andy Ward, 4-5: www.scottexpedition.com Endeavour Magazine | 9
SHAMROCKS
&GUINNESS
HOW ST PATRICK’S DAY IS THE BEST FORM OF MARKETING IN THE WORLD WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST
C
hristmas, Easter, Valentines, New Years, Halloween and Guy Fawkes are shoved in our faces and thrust down our throats every year without fail in a desperate attempt to “keep the
spirit alive” and our pockets empty. I would quite happily dispense with Valentines so that I can give a meaningful card when I want to, throw out Easter because I don’t care, drop Guy Fawkes because too many pets die because of people being idiots with explosives and lose Halloween so that I can be scary all year round. (I’m keeping Christmas for presents and eggnog.) In fact, these insipid holidays have become so blatantly commercial that the real meanings behind them have been eroded away and replaced by something that can only be defined by a man standing with his pockets pulled out. And the shame of it is that if every retail outlet and shop stopped advertising them we probably wouldn’t even bother. But because these well-spaced holidays are such immense cash-cows the retailers will not let them die, exactly like the Christian Churches won’t let God die, despite how very, very tired He is (Oh yeah, I went there). However, one holiday stands out. One holiday will always be kept alive by its followers. Will always be celebrated by ardent believers and requires no glitzy, tasteless adverts - it is a true holiday. The day we celebrate the only Irish saint we know.
The Origins Ireland, an island so wrapped up in magic that its Prime Minster is a Leprechaun, and where the people have so much luck that many scientists have begun measuring it in the same way that we measure pressure, depth, and weight. Of all the grand things that Ireland has given us, Guinness, four leafed clovers, hilarious rhyming deadly elves, a belief in fairies, awesome dancing, the most loved accent in the world and most recently unbelievably awesome rugby (during their match with the All Blacks in 2013 everyone was a green supporter) the one Irish export that is most appreciated is the 17th March. 10 | Endeavour Magazine
Saint Patrick’s Day.
The Irish have their own way of doing things, and this has created
Seems like a stupid idea when
for
an island nation who are not only immune to psychoanalysis but
you’re sober, but post 12.01
bringing Christianity to Ireland,
possess a preternatural ability to consume alcohol and remain upright
it becomes a once in a lifetime
which
The
monk explains
blamed
people
and this holiday is celebrated with shamrocks and green everywhere
opportunity to demonstrate your
started drinking, this holiday has
why
in the world, from Germany to Japan, South Africa to Brazil, America
soccer skills to everyone around
spread throughout the world as
to South Korea and even on the International Space Station.
you whether they be watching
the only holiday on which lentel
And how is it spread? From one person asking another, “Are you
or not (and you’ll be absolutely
the Catholic fasting is lifted
coming out for St Patricks Day?” this question has been asked, person
right). I have an Irish friend who
giving an open excuse to drink as
to person, for four hundred years. Not, “Are you going out…?” which
drank himself into a stupor and
much alcohol as possible.
implies that a person needs to go out and find the party - but instead
his brothers decided to put him
This has become the theme
with the wording, “Are you coming out…?” which implies an invitation,
on a long haul bus trip to Scotland
and alas has overtaken any other
a welcome, an open armed opportunity for you to join me, in this
despite that he lived in Cornwall
meaning that this holiday may
hallowed piss up.
at the time. It always seems like a
have ever possessed. But that is why we love it.
At its heart Saint Patrick created, perhaps not even by intention, a holiday that is filled with more goodwill for fellow man and women
good idea when you’re not using all of your brain.
“Oooooh, ‘tis Saint Patties
than Christmas and at its heart that’s what it’s about, merriment,
Day friend, everyone is Oirish
drinking, laughter and drinking games. The colour green doesn’t
neknomations
today!”
matter, initially the colour associated with this holiday was blue!
export) St Patrick’s day will have
Shamrocks don’t matter - I don’t even know how to play one. What
the extra edge of being about
matters is that you can drink with friends and have some laughter -
dares, and capturing those dares
and that is what makes this holiday wonderful…
on video to immortalize them on
The Beauty Of Word-Of-Mouth Marketing Nothing
brings
people
together like alcohol - which is important to remember if your birthday is in December. And it
Until about 12.01 in the morning.
And this year, thanks to (an
Australian
the internet. So if you wake up in hospital
The Dark Side Of Saint Patrick’s Day At 12.01, something happens to St Patrick’s Day. The merriment changes to something else.
in intensive care with a host of doctors trying to figure out exactly how that traffic cone managed to get that far inside,
is the best example of word of
From this point onwards you’re on your own. If you pass out, you
mouth advertising that I have
will wake up with your head shaved, wrapped in cellophane or with a
ever seen.
tattoo of a rhino’s horn on your forehead. If you keep drinking you will, guaranteed, manage to find that one guy in the evening who is looking for a fight and you will bump into him and because he’s the only one
you’ll be able to show them exactly how on Youtube.
But In The End You don’t get that with the
looking for a fight you’ll discover how difficult it is to coordinate your body into an effective punch when you’re wall-papered.
other holidays.
Even on New
The chances of you waking up in a strange bed increase
Year’s at midnight the party
dramatically, the chances of you waking up with someone
is over, for all the terror of
you want to wake up with lying next to you, decreases just
Halloween it’s more focussed on masks and candy and Valentines
as fast. Stupid decisions seem like ingenious ideas,
Day and Guy Fawkes are either
for example. While during the day when you’re
disappointing or finished with a
sober you may be a level headed person but
big bang…. And
at 12.01 on the night of St Patricks, you’ll think there is nothing better for you to do than to superglue parts of your
St
Patrick’s
Day
promises a lot more. A night of
drinking,
frolicking
and
body together - whether you’re
enjoyment. A morning of danger
a man or a woman this is
and adventure and at least a
never a pleasant thing to
week trying to figure out what
wake up to. Getting your foot stuck in a toaster?
happened and how come you ended up married to a telephone pole. Endeavour Magazine | 11
SEEK & YE SHALL FUND WRITTEN BY JOHN, LORD TAYLOR OF WARWICK
“I
started out with nothing. But after 15 years of working all
competition is a big one. It cannot be right that only four banks
hours and little sleep, I still have most of it left!” That was
control 85% of all small business lending. Banks are also very risk
the rather sad comment made to me by a man who ran his
averse these days. There is pressure on them to reduce their leverage
own small business for years, but wonders whether it was worth the
and improve their capital reserve ratios, to avoid ever having to to
effort. The UK economy depends on small business, but too many
be bailed out by the Government again. I support the proposals for a
are struggling to survive. The Chancellor of the Exchequer, George
new British Business Investment Bank and a Green Investment Bank,
Osborne, claims “We are all in it together”. I beg to differ!
provided they do lend and are genuine competitors to the existing
According to BIS (The Department of Business, Innovation and
banks. The Government has launched a variety of initiatives to help
Skills) there were an estimated 4.9 million private sector businesses
small business. But as The Federation of Small Business points out
in the UK at the start of 2013, of which 99.9 % were SMEs (Small and
the initiatives are not co-ordinated and are too confusing. More than
Medium Size Enterprises). UK Small Business accounts for nearly
3,000 regulations, including those relating to employment, health,
60% of private sector employment and nearly 50% of private sector
safety and the environment have now been identified for removal. In
turnover. So this is a vital sector of the economy, now and moving
its Report the National Audit Office was critical of the Treasury and
forward.
the Banks. It concluded that the Treasury needs to make advice to
But there is a problem. The National Audit Office Report of November 2013, exciting titled Improving Access to Finance for Small
small business simpler and the Banks need to be more flexible in their approach to lending applications.
and Medium Sized Enterprises, stated that the flow of new bank term
It is also vital that funds for SMEs are sourced locally by those
lending to SMEs fell by 23% between 2009 and 2012. Furthermore
familiar with local business. Gone are the days when most small
70% of SMEs have loan applications rejected and get no alternative
firms were on first name terms with their local bank manager, who
finance. Loan rejection rates in the UK are about twice that in France
knew them and their families. Now banks have automated systems
and Germany. The current shortfall to SMEs is about £11 billion and
and credit scores on their clients. The public sector also has a role.
is projected to reach about £22 billion by 2017, if the problem is not
Government contracts are a lifeline to many in the SME sector. Yet
addressed.
Governments are notoriously bad at paying bills on time.
The SME Finance Monitor 2013 report by market research
The British Bankers Association produced a Report in July
company BDRC Continental showed that businesses with the
2013 pointing out that the Banks need to do far more to reach
confidence that they have a chance of getting finance are more
underrepresented groups such as the ethnic minorities. When you
likely to expand. But only 35% of SMEs planning to apply for finance
consider that ethnic minority business contributes an estimated £30
believed that their application would be successful. Consequently
billion per year to the economy, this matters. It found that not enough
a staggering 270,000 businesses that wanted to apply for finance
people know about such initiatives as Mentorsme.co.uk, which helps
never eventually did so.
provide business mentors. Having the funds, but without the skill and
But in order to address the SME problem, it has to be analysed in more detail. What are the main issues? In my opinion, lack of
12 | Endeavour Magazine
experience to use the money wisely is just a recipe for failure. There is an alternative source of funding which has been hailed
as the new challenge to the more conventional
source
of
funding
through the banks. It is peer-to peer lending (not members of the House of Lords lending each other money!), but Crowdfunding. This is where a a group of individuals network and pool their money, usually via the internet, to
support projects initiated by
other people or organisations. There are various types of Crowdfunding models, but there are specialist company websites which provide a “platform” to bring together the originator of the idea with the funding crowd. In 2013 the Crowdfunding industry was said to be worth about £2.5 billion worldwide. I have some concerns in that Crowdfunding is still unregulated. But I understand the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) is about to regulate it in April of this year. At last there are signs that the Government is starting to take this SME problem seriously. The Treasury Select
Committee
recently
that
it
announced will
examine
complaints by Small Business about banks, especially the lack of lending. Andrew Tyrie MP, Chairman of the
customers, SMEs have been badly treated
“
It cannot be right that only four banks control 85% of all small business lending. I support the proposals for a new British Business Investment Bank and a Green Investment Bank, provided they do lend and are genuine competitors to the existing banks.”
by their banks”. He added, “Regulatory and other impediments to competition need to be removed, enabling SMEs better to take advantage of new sources of finance. More competition can also drive up standards”. The inquiry has just started and will look at how small companies are generally treated by the banks, how lenders provide access to financing and will also review competition in the Banking industry. It will hear evidence from key organisations such as the Banking Taskforce Appeals Process, which handles appeals by Small firms when their lending applications have
been
rejected.
Representatives
from the Federation of Small Business, Confederation of British Industry and the Banks themselves will all give evidence. Most small business owners realise there is no magic wand to growing a company and making it a success. Not everyone can appear on TV shows like BBC’s Dragons’ Den and get help from millionaire mentors. Patience and persistence are vital qualities that any small business owner must have. But as the economy gradually improves, so should access to finance. So the message to any would-be entrepreneur, with a good idea, is not to give up. Seek and Ye Shall Fund.
Committee, said: “Like individual
Endeavour Magazine | 13
LOVE LETTER TO AUDI Q7
I
BY STEVE WARMAN love Audi’s, I drive a 3.0 Quattro and smile every time I get into it.
road ahead that reflects its exterior looks. Plus, there’s no denying
Not the most objective start to an Audi review I’ll admit,
that the seven-seat interior is massive, even though the legroom in
however I am a seasoned professional and I like to think I can
the last row of seats is a little tight. That said the Q7 happily housed
take a car and review it on its own merits. What I didn’t expect was to
6 adults in style as we made our way to the local Indian for a business
hide the keys when a colleague wanted to take a look. Nor did I think
meal.
that I would lie blatantly to anyone wanting to drive it saying that the
When I first drove this car I hated the bouncy suspension and I
insurance wouldn’t cover them, obviously not the case with a press
couldn’t wait to get back into my A6. I was convinced that the Q7
car but they had the good grace to go along with my impassable lies.
must have controllable suspension but as I couldn’t see an obvious
I love this car!
big button or lever to pull I figured I was wrong. It was my young son
So yes the Q7 may now be getting a bit long in the tooth now as it
who was fiddling with the central computer when he came across the
made its debut in 2006 however it is still a very imposing car. Inside,
suspension setting and transformed this bouncy tractor into a luxury
it offers a high driving position that gives a commanding view of the
limousine. When you get the right setting you have a car that corners
14 | Endeavour Magazine
well, offers loads of grip and very
has 330 litres of space. When the
little body roll. It drives along
Q7 is in five-seat mode, you get
quietly at motorway speeds and
775 litres of boot space, which
above and the V6 diesel engine
expands to a frankly mammoth
offers impressive performance.
2,035 litres when the back seats
It is easy to forget that you are in
are folded down flat. So, no
a big 4 x 4 with this performance
matter what you need to carry,
and handling.
you can pretty much fit anything
You won’t have to be a brain
inside your Q7, with not even
surgeon to realise that the
the Land Rover Discovery 4
Audi Q7 isn’t cheap to buy, and
matching its huge boot.
“
EI have been smitten by the Q7 and am negotiating a finance deal to buy one myself.”
neither is it cheap to run. Frugal
I am not going to go into much
isn’t really the right word on our
detail on its off road capabilities
test vehicle, the 3.0-litre TDI
for a couple of reasons. Firstly,
diesel which delivered slightly
other than me turning it around
below 40mpg fuel economy. You
in a wet field I didn’t do anything
could argue that that isn’t bad for
off road with it. Secondly we did
where they have said that the downside of that is that it’s undeniably
such a large car, but that doesn’t
have some floods which I didn’t
difficult to park and to maneuver down narrow city streets or into
change the fact that road tax is
drive through. The good news
driveways with tight entrances. I found this to be untrue as it has
hefty too. However this is true
is it was fine on the field and
front and rear parking sensors and huge mirrors. All windows offer
for my A6 and the Q7 has two
handled the puddle well which
great visibility and no blind spots. Or I guess I am just a really good
extra seats and must weigh the
is probably about as much mud
driver!
same as a train!
action as most of these cars will
I like a good light cabin in a
Have no illusions though that you are never going to get a car this big on a small budget. The Q7 is not a cheap car, in anybody’s book.
ever see.
car and the optional extras of a
The Audi Q7 is well built
But the entry-level 3.0-litre V6 TDI Quattro does represent good
full-length glass roof was perfect.
with a durable interior and Audi
value for money as a starting point in this upmarket class of cars,
There are three glass panels and
prides itself on producing tough
where £40,000-plus is a drop in the water. And you do get a decent
two of these open. If it becomes
and dependable cars, so the Q7
level of standard equipment for that money, too. Plus, when it comes
too bright there is a full length
is a safe bet.
to sell on the used car market, the Q7’s resale values are strong and
screen that covers the glass at the flick of a switch.
It’s a big car and its bulk is always obvious.
It weighs in
you should find a better deal than someone selling a rival such as the BMW X5 or Land Rover Discovery 4.
at more than two tonnes and
I have been smitten by the Q7 and am negotiating a finance deal
versatility and a massive boot.
somewhat dominates any road
to buy one myself and I don’t say that after all car reviews! My Q7 will
With all seats in place, the boot
it’s driving on. I have read reviews
soon be on order and I can’t wait.
Interior
offers
good
Endeavour Magazine | 15
SKODA OCTAVIA A PERFECT ALL-ROUNDER BY DONNIE RUST
A
gleaming third generation evolution of the Skoda Octavia
cost and weight on its range of transverse front-engined, front-
vRS, the new 2013 model strikes a compromise between
wheel-drive cars, basically this means that is shares the same chassis,
youthful good looks and reliable mechanics.
electronics and engines as the VW Golf, Seat Leon and the Audi A3.
With a 154mph top speed, it’s also the fastest Octavia ever and
comes with a number of options. For example, you can have the
Inside And Out
217bhp petrol or the 181bhp diesel engines, hatchback or estate,
It’s a very appealing car as far as practicalities are concerned,
manual or DSG paddle-shift gearbox (which makes it harder to
and with the Octavia’s understated styling and spacious interior it all
pretend to be Memphis Raines) depending on what you fancy. Prices
works very well together. Also, there are loads of clever touches and
range from £22,990 for a manual petrol hatch to £25,450 for a DSG-
additions that would possibly go unnoticed until you have to use them,
equipped diesel estate.
like the foldaway hooks in the boot where you can hang your shopping
Making full use of the Golf GTI engine and VW Group’s increasingly
bags, or for travel bags that may contain breakables, the one-touch
ubiquitous MQB architecture, which was introduced in 2012 to save
seat-folding mechanism on the estate and the fact that even the boot
16 | Endeavour Magazine
mat is double-sided with one being a carpet and the other being a dirt-
gearbox, the real beauty of
that for discomfort. Body control
water repellent surfaced for those occasional trips that involve dirt,
driving this car comes through
is excellent, with a little initial
mud and water.
the manual six gear shift which
roll before the car settles on
makes motorway driving a real
its springs. Torque steer is well
treat.
contained and grip is prodigious
Like all Octavias, the racy features are obligatory but it’s what you expect from this generation of city devils. The sport seats, the vRS branded steering wheel brings it all to home and makes you feel
A note on safety. As standard
and although there’s little in the
that you are a part of some grand family tradition. Well equipped with
the vRS is fitted with sports
way of feedback through the
rear parking sensors, hill hold and lane assist, a touch screen display,
suspension including upgraded
steering, it is direct and well
Bluetooth and DAB radio is all standard. The dash is uncluttered,
anti-roll bars, 18in wheels and
weighted, particularly in its sport
leaning towards making the interior as streamlined as the exterior
a ride height lowered by 15mm.
setting.
which only adds to the driving enjoyment because unlike the other
The dampers are passive rather
Octavia’s I’ve reviewed, the vRS gives a unique tingle of excitement
than the Golf GTI’s fancier active
which some other cars can only achieve with massaging seats.
option, but you can control
Conclusion
steering and throttle maps via a
As a day to day machine, for
either a six-speed manual or, for an additional £1,390, a six-speed
button positioned down by the
anyone driving miles throughout
dual-clutch gearbox and in my opinion the former is the better unit,
gearstick, with Sport sharpening
a mixture of heavy and no traffic
with a solid, positive shift and reasonably short throw. Trust me, you’ll
things up and Eco dulling things
this is a perfect vehicle. Reliably
want to be rewarded for choosing to drive something as racy and
down (you can also tailor your
economic
sporty as the Skoda Octavia vRS with a solid kick.
own individual setup, say with
lightning fast on the open road
With a price difference of just £270 between the two engines,
normal
steering
sports
and it was a treat to put my foot
you’re choice will fall largely down to the small differences. The petrol
settings
for
drivetrain
down and get thrown back into
engine is faster with stronger torque, but the diesel is better on fuel
which was particularly useful
the seat and finding the traction
consumption and has a hardier feel to it. In fact if you didn’t know
on the drive from Norwich to
around the corners almost out of
much about cars or if you had just been given a press car and asked to
Nottigham for the film festival.)
this world.
Both petrol and diesel engines send drive to the front wheels via
review it you may not have spotted the difference between the petrol and diesels at all. And again, the Octavia vRS is too sporty to use an automatic
The
the
changes
but
to
in
the
jams
and
the
suspension add a little firmness to the ride, but don’t confuse Endeavour Magazine | 17
GADGETS
Wagnav For those pet owners who are far too attached to your pets
T
he rest of the world may think you’re weird but you probably don’t care. This is for you. WagNav is a phone app that allows to you keep a fixed idea on what your pet is doing every second
of the day thanks to a small microchipped doo-hikky on the collar of the pet which monitors and tracks location and heartbeat. Good as well if you’re one of the bored people who like to know where their cats have been going, or if you want to prove your neighbour wrong about whether your pooch is pooching in his garden.
Slouch Zapper
www.LumoBodyTech.com are crowd funding the posture device and it hopes to roll out the product later this year. It’ll cost $59 to $79 or £36 to £49.
T
his is actually a more useful office tool than you think. With millions of people working in an office and working on desktops or laptops in office chairs slouching is something
we’re all guilty of and it contributes to thousands of claims against sore backs and bad posture every year. This is one of those small bits of technology that could very well have a major influence. It’s simple enough, you pin the Lumo Lift to the underside of your shirt collar and everytime you slouch it’ll zap you with a vibration. Similar devices have long been developed for people wanting to tighten their abs while working.
18 | Endeavour Magazine
F
or those who did not have a successful Valentine’s Day last month this is for you the latest dating app that’s been getting a lot of people’s attention. Taking away all the need of actually
meeting people for the first time and learning basic communications skills, online dating has provided an easy way to replace the awkwardness of meeting and talking to someone for the first time with the awkwardness of meeting them for the first time after they’ve developed a false impression about you. Designed with dating in mind, Tinder is the rapidly up and coming social networking app for people ages 18-35. Tinder makes things easier by utilising your Facebook profile, set up takes seconds simply by connecting your Facebook account and then you’re free to browse singles nearby. Tinder gives you a continuous feed of faces to evaluate. If you like them swipe right, if not swipe left. So it’s like creating a catalogue of suitors. Just make sure if you’re on it that your picture is a good one.
Habit List
T
here’s no shortage of to do list apps in the App Store, but they
Tinder
all miss one crucial point: many of us create daily lists of things we have to do, things which repeat multiple days a week.
That’s where the beauty of Habit List comes in. It lets you create recurring lists (say, “Workout every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) automatically. You swipe your items off the list as you complete them and the automatically reappear the next day you want them to. I’ve been using Habit List for months and it’s earned a coveted spot on my iOS dock.
APPS Endeavour Magazine | 19
HEADLINES THE Born Free Foundation IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Land Rover HELP Simba The Lion GO HOME
T
he Lion named Simba, has been loaded into a wildlife crate
the towing capability of our vehicles and the experience of our Land
approved by the International Air Transport Association
Rover Experience drive team, we can help this become a reality.”
(IATA), and driven from his temporary home in Belgium
Simba’s 4,900-mile journey south will take him to the Born Free
bound for Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport. Providing all the support
Foundation-supported Lilongwe Wildlife Centre in Malawi. It will
and towing capability is a six-strong convoy of Land Rover Discovery
mark the final chapter in a heart-breaking story of animal cruelty.
vehicles and an expert team from Land Rover Experience.
Simba was just six months old when he entered the Parc
The ambitious journey is being carried out by the Born Free
Zoologique du Bouy in France, and only two months later was then
Foundation, Land Rover’s primary global conservation partner. The
acquired by an animal trainer in Vernay. His home became a ‘beast
partnership began in 2002, but the origins of the association date
wagon’ – nothing more than a lorry trailer – and the occasional use of
back to 1966 when Land Rovers featured in the classic wildlife film
a small outside run.
Born Free, starring the Foundation’s founders, Virginia McKenna and
Fate stepped in when French authorities ordered Simba to
Bill Travers. Their requirement was then as it is now – vehicles with
be handed over. At the end of 2012, thanks to a concerted effort
outstanding capacity and all terrain capability to reach wildlife in the
by Fondation 30 Millions d’Amis, a French non-governmental
most remote locations.
organisation, temporary shelter was found at the Natuurhulpcentrum,
Mark Cameron, Jaguar Land Rover Global Brand Experience
a Belgium wildlife rescue centre.
Director, said: “During the past decade Land Rover has enjoyed a
On arrival at Schiphol, Simba will be taken to the animal quarantine
successful and rewarding partnership with the Born Free Foundation. I
centre before boarding a Kenya Airways 767 aircraft to Nairobi.
am therefore delighted that our Land Rover Experience team has been
There Simba will be met by Virginia McKenna OBE, who will join the
able to help with the safe relocation of Simba from Belgium to Malawi.”
team on its drive into Malawi. The Born Free Foundation’s Land Rover
He added: “Born Free has worked tirelessly to ensure Simba enjoys the rest of his life in his new home. I am very proud that through
20 | Endeavour Magazine
vehicles will be on hand to tow Simba to his new home. Virginia said, “It is about one animal, one individual, but all of them
generous response to his situation has been quite amazing.
Giro D’italia: Call To Remove Murals And Flags From North Ireland Route
Indeed, people are increasingly aware of how wild animals can
Alliance MLA Anna Lo has called
be exploited and can suffer, and perhaps long to be a part of a
for flags and paramilitary murals to
caring and positive story.”
be removed from the route of the
matter and Simba, having initially been taken in by a Belgian Rescue centre from an animal trainer in France, is now to begin his final journey to Africa, his rightful homeland. The public’s
March Books
Virginia concluded, “I am very grateful to Land Rover for its
Giro d’Italia cycle race later this year.
support and fortunate, to be accompanying Simba to his new
The appeal follows calls for parties
home in Malawi, where I know he will be beautifully cared for,
to take down election posters while
living the rest of his life in a natural bush enclosure – a stark
the race is in NI in May. The race,
contrast to the circus wagon and barren “exercise” pen in France.
which starts in Belfast for the first
And perhaps, eventually, he will be introduced to beautiful Bella,
time, coincides with the European
the one-eyed lioness we brought there 5 years ago. That would
and local council election campaigns
be a happy ending!”
in May. The stages in NI take place from Friday 9 May to Sunday 11 May. Ms Lo said: “Alliance agrees that we should take down election posters on the route of the Giro d’Italia for the duration of the race if there is agreement from all political parties. “However, if there is cross-party agreement on this, then we should also look to take down flags and paramilitary murals along the route. “The very same arguments that
Simba is now in his new home, Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, Malawi
politicians have been making about taking down election posters to showcase Northern Ireland and our beautiful scenery, also applies to flags and paramilitary murals.” Anna
Lo
wants
flags
and
paramilitary murals removed from the Giro d’Italia route She added: “Funding will be made available in towns along the route to improve the image of eyesores such as derelict buildings but I have a bigger problem with images of paramilitary gunmen. “Do we really want these images to be visible on the route when millions of people will be watching the race on television? Why would we spend money on improving derelict buildings but not deal with threatening and intimidating paramilitary murals?” Endeavour Magazine | 21
2011 GT ACADEMY WINNER TO COMPETE IN GP3 WITH ARDEN INTERNATIONAL AFTER JUST TWO SEASONS OF RACING
J
ann Mardenborough will
and I’m sure the skills I’ve learnt
is where Jann learnt his craft.
compete in Formula One
there will help me in GP3 and
He will now add on a bespoke
feeder series, GP3, in
beyond. I’m excited to work with
development programme with
2014 with the championship-
Arden. My initial impressions
Infiniti Red Bull Racing to push
winning
International
of them are excellent; they have
his talent as far as it will go.
team. The 2011 GT Academy
a lot of experience and great
winner also joins an intensive
success over the years. I’m
Jann
driver development programme
looking forward to working with
said Andy Damerum, Red Bull
with Infiniti Red Bull Racing, the
my race engineer Sean (McGill).
Racing’s
most successful Formula One
“I haven’t raced the GP3 car
Arden
team of recent times.
onto
our
driver
programme,” development
manager. “We have been tracking
yet,” he continued. “But going on
Nissan’s
innovative
approach
In the last two seasons
initial testing, I prefer the GP3
to motorsport and in particular
Mardenborough has competed
car to an F3 car. The power is
GT Academy that challenges the
and excelled in GT cars, Le
very addictive! This season is
status quo of motorsport. The
Mans Prototypes and single-
my opportunity to impress more
traditional route to F1 of karting
seaters, his most recent efforts
people in the sport who make the
and single-seaters is a tried and
earning him the runner-up spot
decisions on who makes it into F1
tested success but Nissan and
in the New Zealand-based TRS
and who doesn’t and I’m going to
PlayStation have gone down a
single-seater championship. His
give it my best shot.”
very different road and started to
podium finish at Le Mans in 2013
was
find some very talented drivers
came two years to the day after
selected for its championship-
who have been doing all their
he reached the final stages of GT
winning pedigree.
The team’s
practicing on a games console.
Academy in 2011.
most recent success story is that
I’m very interested to see how
Arden
International
“I feel ready for GP3,” said
of Russian racer Daniil Kyvat who
Jann fares on our programme
Mardenborough. “I’ve prepared
won the GP3 title with Arden in
and in GP3 this season and I look
well and I have all the right
2013 and will now race in F1 with
forward to taking him under the
people around me to help my
Toro Rosso in 2014.
Infiniti Red Bull Racing wing to
development so I can fully focus on my racing.
22 | Endeavour Magazine
“We’re delighted to welcome
Formula 3 has
A crucial element of GT Academy
is
Nissan’s
further progress his career. ”
driver
The mentor for the UK
taught me so many things, both
development programme, which
finalists of GT Academy 2011
in the car and out of the car, both
helps the winners switch from
was none other than Johnny
mentally and physically. It was a
the virtual world of gaming to
Herbert, who has kept a close
great stage in my development
the reality of the race track. This
eye on Jann ever since.
IRISH MINISTER IS GOING TO SNUB ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE IN NEW YORK OVER LGBT BAN
T
urning down an invitation to the 17th March St Patrick Day In Ireland, Joan Burton has made a stand for LGTB who have been in turn snubbed by the organizers
because of ban on posters and banners promoting gay rights As an Irish cabinet minister she has vowed to boycott New York City’s annual St Patrick’s Day parade over the March
“I have been mightily impressed with what Jann has achieved
organiser’s ban on posters and banners promoting gay rights.
since winning GT Academy,” said Herbert. “For someone with Jann’s
Joan Burton, a Labour party minister for social protection,
experience doing so well is very rare to see. Last year he raced in the
confirmed that she was refusing to go to the17th March
European F3 series which is hell of a tough challenge during your first
celebrations of Ireland’s national saint in solidarity with lesbian,
season; the fact that it was Jann’s first season in any kind of single-
gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) activists. Which will be
seaters is incredible.
a statement of note since NYC has the biggest St Patrick’s
Whilst he has had a very successful first year in GT racing and he
celebration outside of Ireland.
has now got an amazing result at Le Mans 24 Hours under his belt,
Burton was quoted: “It’s a great, fun day, but to me it needs to
he is competing against drivers that have grown up with seasons of
be inclusive of the whole Irish cultural experience and the whole
karting and single-seater experience behind them.
width and breadth and diversity of Irish people and descendants
His talent has not only impressed me, but has now got experienced
of Irish people who have gone to the United States.” And her
figureheads in motorsport talking about what Jann, Nissan and GT
stance and statement will add further weight to Taoiseach Enda
Academy is achieving,” continued Herbert. “The world of motorsport
Kenny, who has been challenged to stay away from the event in
is recognising that GT Academy is helping bring talented young blood
protest at the policy of the organisers.
into the sport. The success of Jann and other GT Academy winners is
She said “I think it’s such a great parade. Like the new mayor
also inspiring a new legion of gaming and motorsport fans by giving
of New York has said, it should be for everyone. So I won’t
them a new route to becoming a professional racing driver. The only
be going to the parade until it is more fully inclusive of all the
question that remains unanswered is ‘Can a gamer make it all the way
different Irish experiences.”
to F1?’” “Jann’s progress is just the tip of the iceberg for the success of the graduates of GT Academy,” said Nissan’s Director of Global
New York mayor, Bill de Blasio, said he plans to boycott the parade himself because of the exclusion of LGBT groups and this will make him the first mayor to do so in over two decades..
Motosport, Darren Cox. “Last year we took 41 podiums around the
The issue of LGBT rights and equality has come back into
world including Le Mans, the Spa 24 hours and the Dubai 24 hours
public focus in Irealnd with the Fine Gael-Labour coalition
and won two championships in the GT-R Nismo. The innovation is
planning a referendum to endorse gay marriage equality later
now obvious to everyone who looks into the detail, however like most
this year.
innovations this was not the case when we kicked the programme off six years ago. Nissan and Playstation have bought motorsport to a new generation of digital fans and now we are expanding even further geographically. Recent additions to our core markets of Europe, Russia and USA are India and the Middle East and more new markets will be announced in the coming weeks.”
Endeavour Magazine | 23
TOP O’ THE HOLIDAY TO YA In Ireland S
WRITTEN BY SHANNAH LAUREN
t. Patrick’s Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Patrick, is
Marine Hotel for a three star affordable hotel. There are lots of things
a cultural and religious holiday that is celebrated all around
that you can do in Dublin to experience the pure Irish style of living,
the world on March 17th. As you may know, this holiday is
one tourist attraction is the Guinness Storehouse which is a Guinness-
wrapped around the color green to represent the iconic shamrock
themed Brewery. You can also breathe in the Irish air by visiting the
and enjoying more than a few pints with your mates. Although, you
Phoenix Park, which is known for holding concerts and motor racing.
are able to celebrate this festivity anywhere around the globe, there
The Dublin Zoo is located in the Phoenix Park and is a perfect family
is no better place than the home of Saint Patrick in Ireland. The feast
attraction; being over 180 years old it makes it one of the world’s
day had started in the early seventeenth century; which turned into
oldest zoos. Also located in the Phoenix Park is the Ashtown Castle,
the first Saint Patrick’s Day Festival was on March 17 1996 in Dublin.
which is originally to be dated from the 1430’s. When the sun sets and
The festivals have developed over the years into a multiple day event
the moon shines, the rest of Dublin keeps going strong. The live music
in Cork, Belfast, Derry, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, Waterford and the
and Guinness drinkers truly take over the city, and one of Dublin’s
largest parade remaining in the city of Dublin.
notorious spots is Café En Seine located on Dawson Street. It’s known
Dublin’s Saint Patrick’s Day Festival of 2014 will be on March
for it’s live music, beautiful girls and great experiences. As the 17th
14th through March 17th, where you can enjoy Ireland’s greatest
of March hits, St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin is at its peak of exhilaration.
parade, live music all day and an endless amount of brew. When
You have a two-hour long parade, and then you must find your way to
planning out your trip, you are looking for the most luxurious hotels,
The Earlsfort Terrance which host Cieli Mor which is the celebration
the trendiest bars and the most astonishing adventures. The most
of Irish line dancing.
famous hotel in Dublin is The Clarence Hotel, located in The Temple
Let’s say you aren’t into the large crowd atmosphere, but simply
Bar neighborhood on the River Liffey. The Clarence was built in 1852
would like to celebrate as one of the Irish, well we have the perfect
and bought in 1992 by Bono and The Edge; a live version of the song
destinations for you. The Cooley Peninsula in County Louth, Ireland is
“A Beautiful Day” by U2 was even filmed on the rooftop. This is the
a beautiful location in which contains some heart-stirring views. This
pricier option, when also you can drive twenty minutes away to the
would be perfect for someone who enjoys the outdoors, trails and
24 | Endeavour Magazine
hiking. Take a hike to the seaside
You can hike for as long as you
12-century
round
tower,
a
Ireland) is still spoken. The old-
of Doagh Beach, Inishowen,
want, or take a brief visit but it
Gothic cathedral and a 15th-
fashioned lifestyle still remains
which is the largest peninsula of
is suggested to make your way
century castle. While you are
in the hearts of these Irish folks,
Ireland. It’s the scenery around
as they traveling by foot, bike or
you that leaves you speechless,
horse and a buggy.
and if you close your eyes, you
Do Ireland a favor this
feel the strength of the green
holiday, and put your smart
land that surrounds you. Another
phones away. Don’t let yourself
captivating spot is the Cliffs of
get too distracted that you
Moher in Liscannor, Co. Claire
don’t let yourself experience the
Ireland. The Cliffs aren’t only an
fullest this St. Patrick’s Day. You
attraction to the tourist eye, but
can have the excitement of your
also in cinemas as well; being
life in Dublin, or you can leave
featured in films like The Princess
with the most magical memories
Bride, Harry Potter and the Half-
of your life at the Torc Waterfall.
Blood Prince, and Leap Year.
It depends on whom you are as
The Torc Waterfall located near
a person, where you are in your
Killarney is absolutely perfect
life, and even whom you go with
for the photographer’s lens, as
that will determine what fits you
graceful shots are available for
best for your trip, but we can
you from the waterfall to the
promise you that you will find
hiking trail to the top of Torc
to the top because the views are
there, take a trip to Hore Abbey,
that perfect something in this
Mountain. Although you must
heavenly.
which will give you a great break
beautiful country. May your trip
be careful walking in front of the
For you history lovers, there
away from any tourist attention,
this St. Patrick’s Day bring you
waterfall, it’s an absolute must.
is no better attraction for you
as it is a deserted ruin with zero
the best of memories, or shall I
The waterfall is so picturesque;
in all of Ireland than the Rock of
tour guides. If you are interested
say in Gaelic, go dté tú slán!
many tourists have stated that
Cashel, a marvelous collection
in the history of Ireland, you
this is one of the most astonishing
of medieval buildings. A few
must visit the Aran Islands where
locations they have ever seen.
of these buildings include the
Gaelic (the original language of
Endeavour Magazine | 25
PARMALAT SOUTH AFRICA 0027 21 809 1400 WWW.PARMALAT.CO.ZA
26 | Endeavour Magazine
Extra MATURE WRITTEN BY DENNY MCELLIS
RESOLUTION
Taking its origins from a small Italian town called Collechio, renowned for its Parma ham and Parmesan cheese, Parmalat SA is one of the major contributors to the South African dairy industry. In order to maintain the best standards in international business practice, a few changes have been made to secure this dairy house as one of the sector’s leading innovators. Endeavour Magazine | 27
PARMALAT SOUTH AFRICA
One of the biggest companies operating in South Africa’s dairy division, retaining a stock-market listing and its own legal structure, Parmalat also has a significant presence across the continent, particularly in Zambia, Botswana, Mozambique, and Swaziland. Operating for more than 15 years, the company is known for a varied and wide selection of dairy products, particularly its award-winning cheeses, under its brand names. Iconic flavoured milk such as Steri Stumpie, ice-cream, butter, yoghurt and fruit juice all play a recognisable part in the company’s identity.
P
armalat SA employs a full time Group SHE (Safety, Health
in a controlled document. It was envisioned that the system should
and Environmental) manager and with this appointment, it is
indicate performance and incidents be visible to management and
made clear that any unsafe conditions or unsafe acts must be
employees alike. Implementation across the company’s African
identified and action plans put into place to mitigate the risk involved.
operations is a challenging process, as each African country has its
According to the company, the instigation of the SHE programme
own set of laws and regulations relating to safety, health and the
does not result in merely identifying risk; it recognises the potential of
environment. However, the baseline of the SHE programme allows
a hazard and evaluates the extent to which it poses a danger. Protocol
easy application across countries and once one had access to the
then requires the placing or recommending of control mechanisms
legislation, it was able to adjust the programme where necessary to
to be put into place to control these risks and once completed, the
ensure legal compliance.
identified hazard is audited in order to determine the effectiveness and efficiency of controls.
Staying fresh
In order to measure the success of the SHE system, Parmalat
One particular challenge of administering SHE has been addressing
SA follows an audit protocol. The NOSA (National Occupational
the health aspects of the workforce. The local dairy industry provides
Safety Association) programme produces two significant results
work to more than 60,000 people, contributing significantly to the
for the company: an effort score (the physical application and legal
country’s economy and plays a part in sustaining employment. Of the
compliance of the system at manufacturing and distribution centres),
18 SA sites in operation, Parmalat SA has seven with full-time medical
and importantly, the DIFR (Disabling Injury Frequency Rate), which
facilities on site, which in part, focus on the medical surveillance of food
indicates the effectiveness of the system measured against the man
handlers, drivers, equipment operators and employees who suffer
hours worked.
from chronic health conditions, such as hypertension. Thanks to this
Parmalat management was adamant they did not want a paper
availability, supported by a sound occupational health programme,
recording system, where incidents were cross-referenced resulting
the absenteeism ratio has been positively impacted and absenteeism
28 | Endeavour Magazine
Packa gin g
reduced. The work force became healthier and exposures to stressors such as noise are dealt with.
Implementing the SHE system has also created opportunity for
your bottom line! s w o r that g FORMING
A member of the Astrapak Group • Marcom Plastics
employees as the employee-driven system uses the programme’s legislation as the minimum criteria as the company building blocks for safety. Employees are trained in subjects such as first aid; fire fighting;
Gerhard Van Reenen • +27 (0)12 541 2784 • www.astrapak.co.za
accident and incident investigation. Thanks to the combined efforts of both the SHE team and senior management, Parmalat SA has managed to raise workplace health and safety standards significantly. For the last five years, the number of incidents per man hours has dropped, and the company can claim recognised leadership status in SHE management through NOSA protocol. In addition, the Parmalat SA has received a number of safety awards over the past three years for the system it uses. The SHE facilitators have also garnered awards for the manner in which they have performed. The resolutions from Parmalat SA could easily be held-up as a blue-print for efficient standards in the workplace; the company still retains its national position as the dominant player in the industry after it was named as the 2013/2014 Cheese Category Winner in the annual South African TGI Icon Brands benchmarking survey in July
Marcom Plastics is part of the newly formed ASTRAFORMING Division of Astrapak and produces a wide range of IML thin walled injection-moulded containers and lids for Blue Chip customers such as Parmalat. Innovative and value added products such as ice cream containers for emerging markets and sophisticated cream cheese and margarine tubs are the preferred choice for many of South Africa’s top brands.
last year.
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• Award winning designs • In-mould labelling • Thin wall injection moulding • Engraving • Tamper evidence
Packa gin g
your bottom line! s w o r that g FORMING
A member of the Astrapak Group • Marcom Plastics
Gerhard Van Reenen • +27 (0)12 541 2784 • www.astrapak.co.za
Endeavour Magazine | 29
CARIBBEAN SHIPPING AGENCIES LTD 001 868 627 2725 WWW.CSASHIP.COM
30 | Endeavour Magazine
KEEPING THE CREW TOGETHER
After more than three decades Caribbean Shipping Agencies Limited have become a force to be reckoned with, acting as a highly diversified agency in all air and seaports across the islands of Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies. Business Development Manager Kevin Choo Quan had a lot to say about the best ways to keep staff motivated. WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER Endeavour Magazine | 31
CARIBBEAN SHIPPING AGENCIES LTD
Being heavily involved in freight forwarding and customs brokerage as well as a myriad of other shipping services, Kevin explains that their success has come from providing their customers with a door-to-door logistics solutions for all of their shipping needs, “We have represented every kind of vessel over the last twenty five years,” he elaborates, “From Container Ships and tankers to training and fishing vessels.”
CSA
has always been a company focussed on customer service and due to this the company has enjoyed a healthy organic
growth which has taken them from a small enterprise to a medium sized company in a short period of time. “In 2003 we had twenty three members of staff,” Kevin reflects, “Today we employ fifty two.” He goes on to say that their management team includes people who have been employed with CSA for over twenty years and some of them were part of the original team that founded the company in the first place with the founder, owner and chairman of the company, Mr. Barry Antoni still running the business. Diversification of operations, strong organic growth, employee focus and development has been a long standing approach for CSA which has stood them in good tide from the very beginning. In 1997 they further diversified their operation through the representation of a five thousand ton Bulk Cargo Barge and this led them to an expansion of their footprint with the ability to deliver cargo and construction materials to various projects throughout the Caribbean and South American region. It is the staff working with CSA however, that is the real key to the CSA’s success and specifically the manner in which those in charge manage them. Kevin explains, “We believe in an open door policy and our managers endeavour to keep open lines of communications at all times.” Input from the employees is an incredibly important tool for the managers, Kevin insists, as employees are not only the hands on aspect of the company but also the eyes on the ground and may have a better day-to-day operational perspective. Some of the most important developments and changes that a business can make are the smallest ones that are simply made to help make an employee’s job easier and more efficient. “It goes further than that,” Kevin continues, “For employees to feel comfortable enough to speak openly with their managers regarding what they need to do their job well, they need to feel that they are in an environment where such information will be taken sensibly and in the spirit it’s delivered. To ensure this our Chairman, Mr. Barry Antoni has always promoted a family type of atmosphere. A legacy of CSA
32 | Endeavour Magazine
which the managers of today and the future managers of tomorrow are keen to maintain.” Training and development is very important at CSA who are completely in support of academic achievements and assist a number of employees in pursuing their educational goals. Understanding the importance of education not only from a professional stand point but also from one regarding the personal feeling of achievement an employee will gain from advancing their education and certifications, CSA even makes allowances for paid time off if necessary. Something that continued even through the tough economic times years ago during which CSA were able to sustain and maintain their staff while other businesses were letting people go. “Additionally, if it is seen as being advantageous managers may offer to fund training and development courses for their employees,” Kevin says, “The management at CSA appreciates their hard-working and dedicated staff and continuously recognizes and rewards good performance. They are what makes the company work.” Indeed, it is through having such a highly experienced and dedicated workforce that CSA are able to offer their customers the high level of service which has made them such a valued entity in the shipping industry across the Caribbean. A level of service that does not simply end at the finest on-line computer accounting system, the first of its kind in the local industry that enables the timely remittances to principals and owners, but also a professional response team available twenty four hours a day, seven days a week to assist in a client’s needs.
Premier Port of Trinidad and Tobago PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN
“When a client needs help, it is essential that we be there to offer that assistance,” Kevin says, “Our policy is to partner with our clients, look after their shipping interest and actively focus on bringing innovation and cost effectiveness to their operations.” An open door policy to their strategically placed offices located only minutes away from the Port of Spain Terminal and Custom Authorities where customers and clients are welcome to visit them should they have a reason to. Innovation is an important part for CSA and in July last year (2013) the company launched INVIARE, a trackable courier service to give customers a real-time manner in which to track the progress of their goods. User friendly and straight forward this adds an extra dimension of information technology to CSA which has proven to be an essential asset to their various clients. “This was followed, in February this year (2014) by Export LCL Consolidated Services, which is part or our new strategy.” In the past because there was not enough volume of product to full a container, agencies would have to consolidate with each other to full a container. This was not time efficient and did not suit the philosophy of CSA who saw the advantage in owning the process. Therefor Export LC Consolidated Services acts as a broker for agencies looking to full containers. Working with manufacturers and partners now they are in the driver seat and are able to offer it as another part of the service to their clients. “It is important to us that we are in control,” Kevin relates, “It is
Our deep water Port facilities, located alongside the capital city, are operated on a 24/7 basis We provide berthing facilities for Container, Break-bulk, Ro/Ro, multi-purpose and Bulk vessels. We provide storage for Break-bulk cargo, imported/transhipment cars and other mobile vehicles
The strategic hub in the southern-most waters of the Caribbean, where trade lanes between the Americas and the great oceans of the world converge Customer Focused: We pride ourselves in customer satisfaction Greater Efficiency: In our Yard, Gate and Berth Operations Technology Driven: Using the latest Navis Sparcs N4 for: More Integration More Customization
Administrative Building, 1 Dock Road, Port of Spain (868) 623-2901-5
Visit our website: www.patnt.com
important that we chart our own destiny.”
Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/patt.ppos
Endeavour Magazine | 33 PATT QP.indd 1
11/03/2014 14:32
CL MARINE LIMITED 001 868 634 4127 WWW.TTDOCKYARD.COM
www.littlegatepublishing.com
Smooth
SAILING WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL
Alisdair Kennan, CEO of CL Marine Ltd tells Endeavour about the exciting developments in the marine services sector, and how the company will utilise them for significant industry growth.
CL MARINE LIMITED
In the wake of many developing regions within the Latin American continent gradually increasing their net wealth, and enjoying the benefits of significantly improved status, CL Marine Ltd has identified valuable opportunities for promoting their own growth and development, alongside that of the wider community that surrounds and supports them. Taking full advantage of decades of industry experience, high-level knowledge and an already impressive legacy within the highly specialist marine repair and construction and engineering sectors, Endeavour spoke with Chief Executive Officer Alisdair Kennan to find out how CL Marine Ltd has gotten to where they are today, and how they plan to move forward.
D
espite worldwide financial crisis’ of recent years, Trinidad
income rates in the Caribbean, thrusting them into a much coveted
and Tobago is enjoying something akin to an economic
position of fiscal stability which their closest neighbours aspire to.
renaissance as the government continues to give support
Not content with the impressive growth already completed, further
to more environmentally sound, sustainable industries in place of the
evolution and development is anticipated to build on the now solid
more traditional reliance on the oil and natural gas industry, both of
financial foundations underpinning the nation. In particular, the steel,
which are of course, finite.
aluminium, manufacturing and tourism sectors are being earmarked
“While it is a lean time in the maritime industry with low charter
for significant overhauls, in addition to planned investments into the
rates for ships being quite low and this effects the amount owners
nation’s transport and telecommunications infrastructure. By seeking
have to spend on refits,” comments Alisdair Kennan, CEO of CL
to improve such an enormous number of sectors, Trinidad and Tobago
Marine. “We’ve had to approach it by becoming a more efficient
is making a significant and unavoidable statement of ambition.
operation giving fast turnarounds. You see ships are required to dry
A key factor driving this economic growth forward is the existence
dock at least every five years and due to the low charter rates, are
of an established and flourishing maritime trade, allowing for a natural
reducing the amount of work being done during a refit. What used to
imports and exports industry to develop. Trinidad and Tobago is
be a 20 day refit is now done in eight, meaning that our clients can be
making great strides in setting itself apart, economically speaking,
back on charter faster.”
by boosting the domestic economy through entering into considered
Currently listed in the top 40 high income nations in the world,
transactions with its neighbours in the Caribbean, as well as Latin
Trinidad and Tobago is enjoying one of the highest GDP per capita
American and the United States. Port Chaguaramas, in the west of the
CL MARINE LIMITED
country, acts as the channel through which all maritime trade passes
logistics but now, this being
berthing tugs, in addition to an
making it a natural choice for the location of the CL Marine Limited
looked at seriously,” Alisdair
impressive 12-ton dock cranes
business premises. Keen to immerse themselves in all elements of the
says, “The procuring of more
and extensive storage space of
sector, the company, which has an impressive and recognised heritage
equipment will mean less rented
50,000m2, CL Marine is perfectly
in the maintenance and repair of vessels, has been strategically placed
machinery, reduced overheads
equipped
to take advantage of the large-scale commercial shipping traffic
and better tariff rates for our
even the gargantuan Panamax
that routinely passes Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the coast of
clients going forward.”
sized
Venezuela.
With premiere port facilities,
to
accommodate
commercial
vessels.
With unlimited access to a
With Latin America demonstrably starting to pursue significant
comparable to the best in
number
economic growth and development, it is entirely anticipated that
the country, CL Marine has
workshops,
demand for CL Marine’s services will steadily increase, further
fast become a major player in
edge fabrication, machining and
solidifying their position as a maritime sector hard-hitter. From their
the provision of ship repairs
electrical tooling, the company
strategic, shipping lane location, CL Marine Ltd has been charged with
and
has afforded itself the enviable
completing a number of expert services, for a vast variety of vessels,
overhauls,
and
ability to complete all tasks
ranging from smaller vessels such as tug boats and fishing trawlers,
installations and electrical and
quickly, effectively and in-house,
through to large projects including maintaining Panama oil and gas
machining solutions for not
keeping costs as low as possible
tankers, Panamax bulk carriers, container vessels and exceptionally
only local, but also international
and minimising the risk of error.
niche market seismic survey vessels.
conversions,
mechanical
fabrication
of
fully
equipped
featuring
cutting
clients. Boasting a natural deep-
“In the last two years, the
“I was brought in November 2011 as part of an effort to
water harbour, dry-dock with
shipyard has been looked at
reinvigorate the yard lead by Mr Grant Taylor, the Executive Director.
a lifting capacity of 23,000MT,
closely
Prior to 2005 there was a noticeable lack of investment in yard
extensive
become a leaner and a far more
quay
space
and
and
everything
has
efficient operation,” Alisdair reveals, “We have had to prove our viability and the dry dock has had big serious business push- in project planning and management strategy,” CL Marine Ltd is entirely aware that cutting edge technology, an exemplar reputation and specialist services are not enough to sustain a company if there is not a comprehensively trained workforce at the foundations. With this in mind, the company has instigated a policy of retention, allowing the business to keep and nurture the key personnel who have been instrumental in the successes to date. These key staff members have a combined experience bank in excess of 300 years, within the steel construction and machinery sector, in addition to over 80 years in the Global Energy market. With in the region of 150 full time employees at any one time, comprising of fabricators, ship builders, engineers and offshore staff, CL Marine Ltd has successfully completed more than 750 projects since 2006. Staff are given extensive access to training and development schemes, allowing them to remain in the company and progress through to more senior roles. Such commitment to the notion of promoting in-house is a clear demonstration that CL Marine hold both staff and clients in extremely high esteem, hence the fact that they are a recognised force in their industry.
“
In the last two years, the shipyard has been looked at closely and everything has become a leaner and a far more efficient operation. We have had to prove our viability and the dry dock has had big serious business pushin project planning and management strategy.”
BORCO 001 242 350 2132 WWW.BUCKEYE.COM
40 | Endeavour Magazine
AN EXPANSION Success Story FOR THE BAHAMAS OIL REFINING COMPANY WRITTEN BY JESS SHANAHAN
The Bahamas Oil Refining Company International Limited (also known as BORCO) is the largest storage terminal facility in the Caribbean – and the fourth largest in the world. The company has recently undergone a huge expansion and there are plans to expand further in the future.
Endeavour Magazine | 41
BORCO
BORCO has 21.6million barrels of storage capacity with facilities placed strategically along the Northwest Providence Channel off the southern tip of Grand Bahama Island. These locations are perfect for blending, transshipping, and terminal operations for the Arabian Gulf, Northwest Europe and West Africa.
A
s the leading oil terminal in the region, BORCO provides
In 2014, my intentions are to redirect my focus from expansion, to
storage tanks for customers to store gasoline, diesel, crude
maximising the current assets and helping BORCO be better than it
oil, fuel oil and other products. The products are imported
already is today.”
from around the globe and stored ready for export to all sorts of countries. In 2011 BORCO was acquired by Buckeye Partners. Buckeye’s history goes all the way back to 1886, this experience of the industry gave a helping hand to BORCO’s expansion plans. Not only that but Buckeye’s international terminal facilities provide various import and export advantages to BORCO’s customers. We spoke to Nate Werner, the BORCO Expansion Manager whose role has changed considerably in the time he’s been working with the company. He said: “In 2008 I was inside BORCO as a Project Manager for an engineering, procurement and construction company (CB&I) building new tanks for the terminal. “In 2010 I began working as an Owner Representative for the terminal. In 2011, when Buckeye Partners became full owners of the facility, I became a direct employee in charge of the expansion project.
“
42 | Endeavour Magazine
The Expansion The expansion consisted of a freeport harbour; inland dock expansion; four new berths; two jetties; a jetty expansion; development of the existing terminal; and deepwater draft up to 91 feet, which has the ability to berth VLCCs and ULCCs. Werner said of the expansion: “The expansion project has been a true success story. There has been a huge emphasis on increased safety culture, utilisation of local island labour, hiring contractors for their sweet spot in execution, and it all translated into a safe, on time, on budget execution. “There is still plenty of real estate at BORCO for the next phase of expansion, and plenty of creative ideas on how to best utilise the space.”
Our staff are the key to our success. We have assets that accounts put monetary values to, and employees that we know are invaluable.”
BORCO
The Staff Are The Key To Success With around 180 employees and 100 sub-contractors working for the company, BORCO understands just how important they are to the company’s continued growth. Werner said: “Our staff are the key to our success. We have assets that accounts put monetary values to, and employees that we know are invaluable.” Finding local staff on an island can often be difficult but BORCO is dedicated to employing skilled people within its locality. We asked Werner how many of the staff were locals from the island, he said: “Our task force is greater than 90% Bahamian. Finding the right person for the task can be a struggle on an island of 52,000 people but it would be equally challenging in New York with 8 million people.” Employing within the locality is important to BORCO and the company strives to help its employees develop too. Werner said: “There are many forms in which our employees are trained. Buckeye University, mentoring programs, computer based training, simulations, and emergency practice drills are a few examples.” Not only are the staff well looked after when it comes to training but BORCO also follows all sorts of industry standards to make sure its staff and customers are safe and happy. “As an oil terminal, we follow the industry standards as they relate to North America, for example, API, ANSI, NEC, NFPA, and OSHA to name a few,” said Werner.
Customer Focus BORCO is dedicated to getting feedback from its customers and establishing long-lasting relationships with each one. This helps the company to formulate plans for expansion and ways in which they can consistently exceed expectations. Werner said: “We have started some great discussions and forums with some of our customers and it has been so successful that we are excited about rolling it out to other customers. In addition to this program, we encourage site visits to meet the person behind the email address and establish a better relationship. “We find that it helps with problem definition which leads to a quicker and more accurate solution to whatever problem might be occurring.” Not only does this give BORCO the chance to meet its customers and provide them with tailored solutions but it also gives those customers the confidence to give feedback on BORCO’s services. This is what helps the company to grow and better itself. Safety and customer satisfaction go hand-in-hand and BORCO is constantly reviewing its customer service and after sales procedures. In getting to know its customers and listening to their needs, the company is able to develop 44 | Endeavour Magazine
and maintain that customer satisfaction. Of this, Werner said: “Best-in-Class is not a goal for BORCO, but a continued pursuit. Business development, flexibility, quick solutions to market, utilisation of technology, and extreme respect for experience-based knowledge are all strategies we use for keeping customers happy and staying ahead of the competition.”
The Ever-Changing Market The oil industry has seen many changes in the 120-or-so-years since Buckeye Partners’ original formation. Buckeye has survived, grown, and prospered through those many years by diligently seeking to provide an excellent service to meet the changing needs of its customers. Throughout the years, the company has continually adapted itself to accommodate new industry standards as they emerged. This includes the ever-changing markets and business conditions, continuously evolving technologies, as well as the many operating and economic challenges that time presents and now BORCO is able to be a big part of that. Both BORCO and Buckeye Partners are building on a successful reputation for excellent customer service and have continued to prosper and grow despite the ever-changing oil industry.
Building in the Bahamas for the last 22 years
COMPREHENSIVE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES FROM PROJECT DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TO THE TURNOVER OF THE COMPLETED PROJECT AS WELL AS SANDBLASTING AND PAINTING If you can dream it, we can build it 15 Cedar Street, PO Box F41809, Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas Office # 242-352-5159 // Fax # 242-352-6000 // Stateside 305-433-5597 // www.albacoreconstruction.com
Endeavour Magazine | 45
ALUPCO 00966 13 847 1300 WWW.ALUPCO.COM
46 | Endeavour Magazine
HEAVY METAL WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL
When effortless adherence to seemingly impossible product standards collides with an internationally recognised reputation for being a market leader, how does a company improve? By constantly striving to supersede expectations, ALUPCO is in a class of their own. Endeavour Magazine | 47
ALUPCO
The undisputed largest supplier of Aluminium in the Middle East, Aluminium Products Co (ALUPCO) is also the eighth biggest globally, making it’s position as the market leader for Aluminium solutions in Africa, Europe and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) entirely unsurprising. ALUPCO has carved itself an impressive reputation as a dominant figure in the worldwide Aluminium industry.
S
ecuring its position as an industry giant through the provision of creative and considered solutions, while retaining a high quality finish, the company is now seeking to grow further by
increasing it’s expertise through continued professional and industryspecific development, adoption of new technologies, increased product diversity and by maintaining an effective and financially viable international supply chain network. Enjoying a reputation for offering clients a wide variety of surface treatment options, including electronic powder coating, anodising, polishing and a specialist wood finish, ALUPCO has most definitely earnt the title of largest supplier of aluminium products in the Middle East. Maintaining this coveted position, while still evolving and moving forward as an organisation, is at the very top of the ALUPCO management team’s priorities. In line with the company’s mission statement that states they wish to ‘provide superior aluminium solutions backed by excellent services’, new clients are consistently being won, with existing relationships being nurtured and maintained. ALUPCO recognises that a stand out product is not enough to retain customer loyalty; an exemplar level of after sales support must also be extended. Through continued growth, ALUPCO is now the proud owner of 48 | Endeavour Magazine
That’s really the story of Alba’s success. accessible location midway between the source of terial and the world’s primary aluminium markets twin facilities located in the Dammam and Jeddah industrial cities, bined with an invaluable local workforce: a unique boasting an impressive 130,000 square metres. The company has y indeed. But opportunity alone is not enough. It is invested significantly in machinery and appropriate, future-proofed and faith, vision, and a lot of hard-work, equipment and pride as such, has eight extrusion presses, allowing that for a total extrusion capacity in excess of 78,000 tonnes. Determined to Alba has become the global player it is today. meet demand for coasting services, ALUPCO has also made provision for 5 powder coating lines, two anodising lines, two polishing lines, a wood finish line and a thermal break crimping production line within their facilities, allowing them to complete numerous projects simultaneously, preventing avoidable delays and a backlog of work building up. These time saving initiatives are benefits that are passed directly to clients in the guise of reliability and time efficiency. With a reputation for excellence, cost-effective solution creation and international quality standards compliance firmly under their belt, the company has been privileged to supply a number of internationally recognised and exceptionally high-end projects in the GCC, including the Dubai International Financial Centre, the Emirates Mall and particularly notably, the Palm Jumeirah, a location of choice for the extremely wealthy and/or famous. The best, and most successful, companies in the world always
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) is renowned for its premium grade aluminium products, technological strength and innovative policies and strict environmental and safety guidelines. Established in 1971 as a 120,000 mtpa smelter, Alba today produces more than 912,000 mtpa of the highest grade aluminium, with products including standard and T-ingots, extrusion billets, rolling slab, properzi ingots, and molten aluminium.
recognise the value of a strong, unified and motivated workforce.
That’s really the story of Alba’s success. An ideally accessible location midway between the source of raw material and the world’s primary aluminium markets combined with an invaluable local workforce: a unique opportunity indeed. But opportunity alone is not enough. It is with passion and faith, vision, pride and a lot of hard-work, that Alba has become the global player it is today.
Endeavour Magazine | 49
ALUPCO
ALUPCO
absolutely
to identify those individuals that show a natural predisposition for
working in accordance with
this
rule,
responsibility and leadership, which in turn allows it to promote from
European (EN), German (DIN),
acknowledging that their mission
within, in accordance with a structured succession planning function.
British (BS), American (ASTM)
statement
achieved
The development of such leaders and supervisors is of the utmost
and Saudi (SASO) standards in
through the commitment of their
importance to ALUPCO as it directly impacts on the economy of the
all of its operations, ALUPCO
800-strong, highly trained, staff.
surrounding communities. Promoting from within and encouraging
are fully deserving of their
Boasting exceptionally versatile
new staff to join can help to achieve a far more organic development of
international
and expert individuals across
the staff body. Considering ways in which they could actively support
excellence.
all areas of the business, the
surrounding areas, ALUPCO has a clear strategy to, where possible,
Looking to the future, the
team is well placed to recognise
employ local people, calling this initiative ‘Saudization’. Currently,
company invests 50 percent
and
expectations.
the company employs professionals encompassing 13 nationalities,
more than it needs to on capital
never
stop
with 33 percent of the workforce being successful applicants to the
investments, every year. Abdel
striving for improvements to both
Saudization process. ALUPCO plans to build on this figure by two
Monem Khaled, CEO of ALUPCO
products and services, ALUPCO
percent year on year.
highlights
no
is
exception is
to only
surpass
Determined
to
reputation
that
with
for
regular
seeks to continually develop
Backed by numerous, recognised accreditations, ALUPCO’s
the skills and performance of all
exemplar reputation for working in accordance with high standards
technology, the company ensures
team members, throughout the
is what really makes it stand apart from it’s nearest rivals and
that its production consistently
business as a whole. Offering
competitors. The recipient of not just an ISO: 9001 but also an ISO:
hits the highest standards while
all staff access to an impressive
2000 certificate, ALUPCO is the sole aluminium extrusion company
simultaneously
range of comprehensive training
to achieve this impressive feat, thanks to it’s firm dedication to an
energy and
programs, the company is able
uncompromising approach to producing high quality products. By
effective.
50 | Endeavour Magazine
investments
in
automation
conserving remaining
cost-
The company’s management
capacity in order to grow at an
team are fully engaged with
accelerated rate. The growth
‘focusing and validating’ its core
plan will be realised thanks to the
business strategy and execution
company’s already impressive
plans in the immediate future.
facilities and dedicated team of
Khaled, who recently won an
workers.
award for the Best CEO in
“Integrity is the key to all
Saudi Arabia explains that: “In
our dealings with our clients
this
competitive
and partners. We treasure our
and challenging environment,
increasingly
world-class team of people and
it has become imperative to
invest in their abilities. We aspire
focus and validate core business
at being innovative in our work
strategy and execution plans to
through bringing new ideas and
align processes with the right
new ways of doing business to
solutions and technology to
deliver practical, reliable solution
enhance performance, expand
implementations for our clients,”
market
Khaled concluded.
share
and
increase
returns on investments.”
Nurturing relationships with our customers is a crucial part of Jotun’s strategy to grow the business. We view Alupco as a strategic partner and have forged a very close relationship. The relationship between Alupco and Jotun began more than a decade ago and it is fair to say there is a high level of trust and empathy on both sides”
Khaled goes on to comment that ALUPCO will be looking to further expand its production
Endeavour Magazine | 51
BROADWAY BAKERIES 00254 20 359 6210 WWW.BROADWAY.CO.KE
52 | Endeavour Magazine
There’s nothing quite like finding a good family story behind a good company name. There is an undeniable strength to be found in businesses with strong family values and the story of Broadway Bakery Limited and Bakex Millers Limited is the perfect example. We spoke with Managing Director Mr Bimal Sobhagchand Shah. WRITTEN BY DENNY MCELLIS
HOME GROWN, HOME BAKED
Endeavour Magazine | 53
BROADWAY BAKERIES
Broadway Bakery was started in 1958 by the Shah Family in Thika town, which is about 40 kilometres from the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. Initially, it was started with a single deck oven to fire the burner and you had to manually pump in the air. Two of the first generation brothers – Mr Ratilal, who is now 84 years old, and the late Mr Sobhagchand – would go early in the morning to the upcountry to sell the first few loaves of bread daily.
“T
he price of bread at the time was about 40 cents a loaf,” Mr Bimal reflects. “Eventually, another Collins (3 deck) oven was installed with an additional small mixing
machine and rounder. Altogether, the bread and other confectioneries like scones and sweet buns were produced using about 25 sacks of flour a day and these products would be distributed using a fleet of six vehicles.” Amazingly at the time, bread was new to the small population of Kenya and the brothers had a difficult time convincing the local population to adapt to this new food item. In 1965, two other brothers – Mr Dalichand and the late Mr Chunilal – joined the business and in 1968 the company was given distribution rights to sell Elliot’s bread, which they continued to do so up to 1977, having increased sales to 25,000 loaves of bread daily. Scones and buns were still manufactured at the small bakery and in 1976 the family’s footprint was expanded as they bought another bakery in Nairobi that was sold four years later. Due to the rising demand for bread and the lack of supply from Elliot’s, the brothers ventured into putting up their own fully automated bread plant from Bakers Perkins of the UK with a capacity to produce 70,000 loaves per day. Settling upon a new site of four acres of land in Thika, the present factory was constructed in 1979. “The bread is manufactured using the traditional sponge and dough process, which gives it a unique taste and flavour,” Mr Bimal
54 | Endeavour Magazine
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Endeavour Magazine | 55
BROADWAY BAKERIES
explains. “This process is still continued even now.”
Bimal explains. “Production on the Baker Perkins plant has since been
For the next 10 years, the family continued their massive expansion
stopped, but is still kept as a memorial to the first generation brothers.
having installed in 1981 another bread plant from Spooners with the
Later, other second generation family members – Mr Hiten and Mr
same capacity of 70,000 loaves a day. Thereafter in 1985, a German
Bejul – joined the business in preparation for the new millennium.”
Werner & Pfleiderer plant to produce 100,000 loaves a day was installed to meet the fast growing demand for bread. Thanks to this demand, the family held a good share of the bread market throughout Nairobi, Machakos, Meru and Kitui, covering a radius of 120 miles from Thika. At the peak of demand in the late 1990’s, the company was producing approximately 220,000 loaves of bread per day! In 1979, the youngest brother in the family – Mr Amichand – and the oldest second generation – Mr Bimal – joined the family business. Mr Bimal opted to move from his undergraduate degree at the Chelsea School of Pharmacy to join the National Bakery School in 1977, obtaining a Diploma in Baking with Distinction and was one of the top students in the City & Guilds Exams in 1979. After graduating, he returned back and joined the business and has been instrumental in the expansion and day-to-day management of the factory since then. “In order to ensure extra capacity and safeguard the market share, a second Werner & Pfleiderer plant was installed in 1995,” Mr
56 | Endeavour Magazine
The Flour Power Of Bakex Millers Limited In early 1980, the supply of wheat flour from the few millers in the area was very erratic and the country was facing a wheat flour shortage, so the family applied for a licence to set up its own milling plant. In 1983, a fully automated 150 metric tons per day Buhler wheat mill was installed along with four bulk storage silos of 1,000 metric ton capacities each at another site in Thika. The milling company was called Bakex Millers Limited. Managed by Mr Hiten, a talented and experienced miller, the company has been supplying wheat flour to Broadway Bakery since then and in 2012, it continued the family trend and expanded by installing a new state-of-the-art 250 metric tons Buhler mill together with extra storage capacity of 8,000 metric tons of wheat in silos. “The company has a total storage facility of 16,000 metric tons in silos,” Mr Bimal says. “The total investment in 2012 was 6 million Euros and, during 2014, additional storage capacity is being increased
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“...A culture of high-tech, quality and customer care...” Endeavour Magazine | 57
Agro Chemical QP.indd 1
11/03/2014 14:01
BROADWAY BAKERIES
by another 8,000 metric tons!”
actively involved in running the businesses.
While Bakex Millers supplies the flour, 75% of the company’s wheat
“Broadway Bakery has specialized in the manufacturing of
requirement is imported from Canada, USA, Argentina, Russia, the
standard white bread, brown bread, premium bread and introduced
Black Sea and sometimes even Australia. Over the years, the company
Seneta sweet bread in 2013, all under the powerful Broadways name,”
has had the opportunity to develop strong business relations with
Mr Bimal tells us. “80% percent of the bread is still open top bread and
major commodity trading groups, such as Louis Dreyfus, Seaboard,
the rest close top or sandwich bread.”
Holbud, amongst others. All the wheat is offloaded from the ships
Owing to the decreasing purchasing power of the local Kenyans,
at the Grain Bulk Handling terminal in Mombasa and transported by
there has been a shift from the normal 400 gram loaf to a smaller
bulk lorries to Thika.
200 gram loaf. Today, the Spooner plant is only dedicated to the
Along with the steady supply of 1,400 metric tons of baking
manufacturing of the 200 gram loaf.
flour a month to Broadway Bakery, Bakex Millers has progressed
Broadways bread is packed using wax-coated paper that keeps the
and expanded steadily in supplying other small bakeries, biscuit
bread fresher for a longer period and is more environmentally friendly.
manufacturers and the home baking market using its popular Oboma
In 2001, the company set up its own packaging and converting plant
brand. In addition, the company is in the process of introducing new
on the same premises. Here, the paper is printed, wax-coated and slit
products under the Vitafla and Ungano brands in 2014.
ready for the packaging machines. Keeping this process in house is a prudent measure as nearly 40 metric tons of wax-coated paper is
A Generation Pass Over And New Packaging
utilized in a month! “This packaging is the company’s trademark,” Mr Bimal points out. “With our own fleet of 70 vehicles, we distribute bread every
After 2001, all the first generation Shah brothers retired and
day in the morning from 4 a.m. to more than 200 distributors in all
handed over the running of both the businesses to the second
the main towns and we also supply to over 200 supermarket outlets
generation. Therefore today, Mr Bimal, Mr Hiten and Mr Bejul are
spread in these towns,” Mr Bimal tells us.
UNE MARQUE
58 | Endeavour Magazine
Furthermore, the vehicles are all serviced and maintained in the company’s own workshop. “Due to the nature of the business, the company must ensure that bread is delivered very early in the morning every day of the year,” he continues. “We have a very strong distribution network in all the major towns.”
Encouraging Entrepreneurs Both companies support distributors with bicycles, uniforms and advertising materials to promote sales and young Kenyans and SMEs are encouraged to join the distribution network to garner the benefits from it. Distributors also have the added advantage of keeping part of their profits with the company, which can be used for other needs when necessary. The company uses major banks and their branch networks for payment collection and mobile banking.
Protecting The Staff “Our total workforce is 420 personnel working in all the
Louis Dreyfus Commodities is a global merchandiser of commodities, a major asset owner and a processor of agricultural goods, with over 160 years of experience. Today we help to feed and clothe up to 500 million people, originating, processing and transporting approximately 70 million tons of commodities around the world annually. We truly value the relationship we have built with Broadway Bakeries over the years. We intend to forge even stronger bonds in order to continue providing consumers in Kenya with access to best-in-class food products. Louis Dreyfus Commodities Kenya Ltd Kenbelt Industrial Park – Old Mombasa Road P.O. Box 44908 – 00100 GPO Nairobi, Kenya Email: mom-trade@ldcom.com
sections, which include production, wrapping, transport, sales, printing, maintenance for both plants and transport, administration, supervision and security” Mr Bimal says.
Endeavour Magazine | 59
BROADWAY BAKERIES
Since the 1980’s, there has been a Workers Union representing the welfare of the staff and collective bargaining agreements have been negotiated every two years since then.
High School in 1996 where it has been sponsoring needy students with educational fees. “There is no downside to investing in the next generation,” Mr
“The company was the pioneer to start the Provident Fund
Bimal insists.
Scheme for its employees in the baking industry, including life cover in the event of death while in employment,” Mr Bimal adds proudly. “The majority of the employees have been in employment for 15 years or more with at least 10 who are still in employment since inception in
Development And Further Growth As competition is growing day by day, the company embarked on a massive advertising campaign in 2013, changing the packaging to
1979.” The company provides employment opportunities to disabled
a new design and opening new routes and outlets. In late 2013, the
people and, at present, there are three totally blind employees. All
company started supplying to the Kisii District, Eldoret and Mtito
staff receive regular medical examinations and training on production
Andei on the Mombasa route. Furthermore, they are carrying out
and wrapping is all in house on the shop floor to allow for on the job
feasibility studies on which area to set up another manufacturing unit.
training and development. Graduates are recruited for maintenance
New equipment is being installed on the present plants to improve
through their attachments with the colleges and universities, and in
efficiency and reduce wastages. With the third generation of the Shah
the same vein, administrative staff are all graduates.
family ready to join in, they have been given the task of looking into
“We send some of our staff to seminars to cover new government legislatives,” Mr Bimal says. “The company’s policy is to support
the production of other flour products that would support the milling industry.
employment for local Kenyans and it only has two expatriate staff on
“Our family celebrated 100 years of existence in Thika in 2012
its payroll and at the end of the year every employee is given a bonus.”
and we hope to continue showing our love and commitment to our
Many community projects are supported directly by both companies and they have been instrumental in starting the Broadway
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60 | Endeavour Magazine
people and Kenya as a whole,” Mr Bimal concludes.
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Endeavour Magazine | 61
STANDARD CHARTERED BANK 00263 4 253801-6 WWW.SC.COM
62 | Endeavour Magazine
SETTING THE STANDARD Don’t let the Standard Chartered Bank’s name fool you. With a legacy in excess of 120 years and a commitment to improving the Zimbabwe economy, there is far more to the financial institution than meets the eye, as Chief Executive Officer Ralph Watungwa explains. WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL
Endeavour Magazine | 63
STANDARD CHARTERED BANK
Founded in 1892, the first ‘branch’ of the Standard Chartered Bank Zimbabwe was located in a bell tent in the heart of Bulawayo, making it the longest standing financial organisation in Zimbabwe. This impressive heritage is something that the company has sought to build upon for the last 122 years. Naturally, the structure and focuses of the company have evolved as the years have passed, with branch numbers fluctuating in response to technological advances such as ATMs and more recently, online and mobile banking. One element, however, has remained the same, an intrinsic desire to support and develop the Zimbabwean economy.
T
hough it is true that the Standard Chartered Bank has expanded globally, boasting in excess of 1,700 branches worldwide, their primary interests still lie in Zimbabwe, more
specifically, connecting it to wider Africa, Asia and the Middle East for significant financial gain. Addressing both domestic and commercial banking needs, Standard Chartered have a SME client base of over 7,200, all of whom are keen to take advantage of the extensive growth expertise on offer. Retaining a localised focus, the agricultural and commodities sectors are recognised as the main pillars of the Zimbabwe economy. As such, Standard Chartered Bank has made available $360m of financial support to these industries in 2013, through the Wholesale Banking arm of the company, which is an impressive 20 percent increase on the previous year. In addition to this, $230m in credit was also levied for the sector while the manufacturing and commerce industry were able to borrow up to $105m, with support industries being given access to $25m. Domestic customers have also benefitted from developments at Standard Chartered, with online and mobile banking services being dramatically improved, in line with a significant uptake in popularity. With more than 90,000 customers in Zimbabwe alone, the Bank consistently strives to improve standards and services, allowing them to remain as one of the industry leaders. Keen to retain their reputation as one of the premier banking institutions in Zimbabwe, Standard Chartered Bank are exceptionally customer focused, conducting regular satisfaction surveys and installing a Customer Experience Council, a highly dedicated team chaired by the Chief Executive Officer that is charged with providing
64 | Endeavour Magazine
Friends of the Environment (FOTE) Zimbabwe is a trust whose main goal is the re-greening of Zimbabwe through reforestation and afforestation. FOTE has a target of planting 500 million tree by year 2026 through three main activities: annual walkathons to raise environmental awareness; tree seedling nursery establishment to address the supply side, and the actual tree planting activities.
Endeavour Magazine | 65
STANDARD CHARTERED BANK
solutions to highlighted customer concerns. In addition to this, Ralph
volunteer days, with team members of all levels participating.
Watungwa describes the impressive Customer Charter as being
Discussing the importance of an effective supply chain, Watungwa
a “Consumer Banking promise to our customers for fast, friendly
notes that “all suppliers and partners are essential to the business
and efficient service, provision of solutions to their financial needs
operation because without any one of them, no business can operate
and recognition of the overall banking relationship. To deliver on
to its full potential. There is, therefore, need to value all suppliers and
our promise, our employees complete comprehensive Complaints
partners in the same manner regardless of what you get from them.
Handling training”. The strategy is clearly paying off as the company
For any partnership to work you need to share the same goals and
sees continued improvements in their Net Promoter Score, the
work together”. He continues to highlight the fact that globalisation
yardstick by which they measure customer satisfaction. Steadily,
has led to the lengthening of supply chains, often resulting in
Standard Chartered Bank has become the financial institution that
increased risk of delays, which necessitates regular reviews of the
current customers are happy to recommend to friends and family, a key indicator that through
exemplary
standards,
the
service
company
is
earning impressive levels of customer loyalty. Clearly,
monitoring
of
customer satisfaction is vital for the continued success of Standard Chartered Bank, but this is not conducted to the detriment of staff development and support. Employing 697 full time team members, the company expects and demands the very highest standards of conduct, social awareness and professionalism. To those that act in accordance with these demands
and
embrace
the
company values of courage, creativity, responsiveness
“
supply chain to retain optimum value for money.
All suppliers and partners are essential to the business operation because without any one of them, no business can operate to its full potential. There is, therefore, need to value all suppliers and partners in the same manner regardless of what you get from them.
trustworthiness, and
global
awareness, continued training and coaching is offered, allowing team members to diversify their skills
Looking Standard
the
future,
Chartered
to
Bank
has instigated a number of initiatives, designed to further improve
the
services
they
already pride themselves on. The Wholesale and Consumer Banking units will be integrated, allowing for a far more focused approach towards three newly defined groups; Corporate and Institutional, Commercial and Private and finally Retail client. In addition to redefining client groups, the bank has begun a lengthy process of encouraging customers to move towards virtual financial management techniques, such as mobile and online banking. Combined, these elements promise to provide support to imminent reorganisation of the company,
in preparation for a period of accelerated growth.
matrix and progress through the institution. Proud to call themselves
Having invested significant time and fiscal resources in this
a ‘learning organisation’, Standard Chartered Bank reward staff in the
reorganisation of the business model, Standard Chartered Bank
present and prepare them for future roles by identifying leadership
looks forward to being able to ‘refocus the Bank’s attention on
capabilities and nurturing them through workshops, one-on-one
defined distinct customer segments’ which will allow them to ‘deploy
coaching and e-learning resources. Support on such a superior level
capital, liquidity and investment spend more effectively and deliver
must of course be utilised to the fullest extent and as such, all staff
improvements in both productivity and service’, the benefits of which
members are encouraged to undertake three days of volunteer work
will not only be experienced by the Bank itself, but also it’s customer
per year, in order to contribute to the surrounding community and
base and the economy of Zimbabwe as a whole, thus bringing their
forge even stronger ties. 2013 saw bank employees complete 1217
brand promise, Here for good, to life.
66 | Endeavour Magazine
IMQS 00 27 21 880 2712 WWW.IMQS.CO.ZA
68 | Endeavour Magazine
Based in the picturesque Cape Winelands region of South Africa, IMQS is an international software company developing a unique suite of software and integration services primarily for municipalities and utility customers. WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL
UNLOCKING Municipal Value ONE ASSET AT A TIME Endeavour Magazine | 69
IMQS
Founded in the late 1990s as part of civil engineering group GLS Consulting, IMQS was tasked with creating a software platform for collating and reporting management information on customers’ infrastructure assets.
T
he success of the software resulted in its rapid evolution as a specialist GIS-based infrastructure asset management, reporting, forecasting and planning platform, which is today
used extensively in South African local government and a number of major utility companies abroad. We spoke to CEO Rob Knight to better understand how the company plans to leverage its success and expand its global audience.
Focus on infrastructure management With native integration to industry-standard ERP (enterprise resource planning) platforms such as SAP built on top of a customdeveloped GIS engine, IMQS provides a uniquely visual business intelligence solution for managing municipal infrastructure assets throughout their lifecycle. It is the only asset register in South Africa that is fully georeferenced, and is compliant with the asset recording, accounting and management standards set out by the Municipal Finance Management Act, including GRAP (Generally Recognised Accounting Practice). It also supports the international standards PAS55 and ISO55000. Knight says almost all municipal and utility assets fall into six key areas, each with its own specific management criteria: water supply, sanitation, roads, electricity, property and building, and storm water. 70 | Endeavour Magazine
“Water utilities, for example, require detailed information on their existing assets – pipes, valves, connectors, and so on – to better manage expansion, better service their customers, and better invest in preventative maintenance,” he says. “These assets are made visual in IMQS’s software, allowing customers to gain a high-level perspective of the entire water supply network with the ability to ‘drill down’ through the layers to see component level detail if necessary.” At a municipal level, Knight says IMQS is used not only to gain a better understanding of the assets a municipality owns, but also visually manage the procurement, maintenance, and future investments in infrastructure in conjunction with current and future planning directives. “Since municipal assets, through taxes, rates and levies, are a major source of municipal income our software has been invaluable in correcting major discrepancies in the asset registers of some of South Africa’s largest municipalities, unlocking significant value through lost revenue. In one instance, we were able to expand a municipal customer’s asset register tenfold, unlocking billions of Rands of additional revenue.”
A planning platform for life Knight believes IMQS is unique in its ability to provide customers with an integrated platform that covers every aspect of their asset management lifecycle requirements. “Once a customer sees how easily the system can be integrated
Endeavour Magazine | 71
IMQS
with its existing IT systems, and how quickly real value is derived, it becomes integral to the way they do business,” he says.
“We’re making a significant investment in staff development, based on our own SAICE, South African Institute of Civil Engineering
“Moreover this power is packaged into a flexible, modular
certified training programs,” he adds. “This training provides credit
software architecture that delivers real-time information through
towards professional accreditation, so we’re actively working towards
a portable, device-independent web client, which makes it equally
up-skilling staff at both local and metro level.”
adept in the field as it is in the boardroom. This results in forward-
Knight says this continued focus on future development is crucial
thinking initiatives like tablet-based asset recording applications for
as the company explores expanding from its traditional customer
rapidly collecting asset information onsite, even in remote areas.”
base of municipalities and utilities to high-tech industries like
With multiple information input sources – ERP systems, financial
telecommunications.
systems, municipal meters, asset registers, and its own information
“New industries like next-generation telecommunications rely
capture interface – IMQS can also report and assess data in multiple
more heavily on real-time data for asset tracking and management,
ways. It allows for the display of spatial information as well as rapid
and our visual overlay of this data gives us a competitive value
searches
for
information
contained in almost any data field. “This flexibility allows the different
decision-making
stakeholders in an organisation such as CFOs, city planners, and
city
administrators
to
collaborate on different aspects of
municipal
administration
without deviating from their areas
of
expertise.
That’s
not always easy at a local government
level,
but
the
“
software eliminates the barriers that typically stand in the way of this sort of collaboration.” As such IMQS is changing the operational culture of many
proposition in this emerging market,” he says.
Once a customer sees how easily the system can be integrated with its existing IT systems, and how quickly real value is derived, it becomes integral to the way they do business.”
The success of IMQS at major
local
municipalities
like the City of Cape Town, Ekurhuleni and City of Tshwane, and large urban utility providers like Johannesburg Water, has brought the company to the attention
of
South
African
investment group EOH, which is now a 50 percent stakeholder. It has also garnered attention internationally,
partnering
with the likes of Canada’s Pure Technologies, and Quasset in the Netherlands. “Our work at (Netherlands water utility) VITENS, through
of its customers. “From the
our association with Quasset,
same unified interface decision-
gives us the impetus we need
makers can, for example, locate
to shift our software to the next
a parcel of land on a map, search for information on a ratepayer’s
level,” says Knight. “In essence the work we’re doing with VITENS
accounts, and view the cost, condition and physical makeup of the
allows us to take all the know-how, tools and data smarts that we’ve
assets on that ratepayer’s land,” he says. “In doing so it serves the
built into the desktop platform in South Africa and port them to the
majority of our customers as a planning platform for life.”
Cloud, without compromising on performance.”
Focus on future development Given its rapid trajectory, Knight says it’s easy to forget the company’s humble beginnings. From only a handful of software developers a decade ago the company has grown to more than 60 employees – a mix of software engineers, support staff, training staff and business development managers.
72 | Endeavour Magazine
2014 will see this evolution gather pace, with new customers and, significantly, external contractors plugging in to the IMQS universe via the web. “What we’re building is nothing short of a completely integrated ecosystem that customers, suppliers and external consultant can use regardless of where they’re located to make critical business decisions based on real, verified data.”
ROYAL CANIN +27 11 801 5000 WWW.ROYALCANIN.CO.ZA
74 | Endeavour Magazine
CREATING SOMETHING Worth Leaving Behind WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
A pioneer company in health nutrition, Royal Canin is committed to giving precise nutritional answers to the specific requirements of dogs and cats. Founded in 1968 in France by a veterinarian, its distinctive philosophy “cats and dogs first”, places the animal at the heart of the innovation process to improve its welfare and health. Endeavour Magazine | 75
ROYAL CANIN
This purpose is based on a demanding ethics code and a collaborative approach with vets, scientists and breeders that led the company to international recognition and leadership. Royal Canin is committed to global sustainable development, thanks to over six thousand associates in over ninety countries that strive to make a difference to people and the planet through the company’s performance.
A
cquired by Mars Incorporated in 2002, Royal Canin forms
they sent themselves up with a state of the art factory to feed their
a major part of the Mars’ billion dollar brands portfolio
abovementioned network which has been growing and diversifying
and with its thirteen state-of-the-art factories worldwide,
since then.
we’re focusing on the one based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Unique and perhaps one of their defining features is the Royal
One of the leading pet nutrition companies in the country and
Canin Eco Park, an incredibly self-sustainable environmental site
with a staff complement of 158, Royal Canin South Africa works
that, in 2003 Mr Henri Legarde (CEO of Royal Canin at the time),
through an arterial network of their own distribution centres through
and Dr. Charles Moore established as a natural ecological safe zone
Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg and makes use of third party
surrounding the Royal Canin factory in South Africa to protect and
distributors in East London, Port Elizabeth, George, Kroonstad and
rebuild a natural, indigenous environment.
Pretoria to get their products to the animals that need it.
Well ahead of their peers this practice of repair and creation has since been consistent through the history of the company and has
Defining Customer Care
developed a culture of sustainability that is emulated and driven by those working with them. This was all featured in the celebrations:
Behind Royal Canin is a dedicated adherence to customer
a decade of doing what other companies can only dream of and an
care and a deep belief in their product. Entering South Africa in
acknowledgement to those who work there and share in the dream.
2001, they spent their first years in Africa developing within their
With 70% of their raw material being sourced locally, Royal Canin
customer market place a taste for their foot product before in 2003
has a belief in developing from within.
One of the leading pet nutrition companies in the country and with a staff complement of 158, Royal Canin South Africa works through an arterial network of their own distribution centres through Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg. 76 | Endeavour Magazine
ROYAL CANIN
The People With The Hearts Royal Canin does not have any employees, no staff and no workers, they have associates. This fundamental concept places partnership
Strength Begins At Home
developments
and sharing on a mutually beneficial footing and a lot could be learn by
involvement that is taken on
other businesses seeking to galvanize their workforce.
employee
and
The Associate Concept begins and ends with a shared
growth has the effect on Royal
relationship between the individual and the business based upon the
Canin that every part of their
Five Principles of Quality, Efficiency, Mutuality, Responsibility and
operations is as refined and
Freedom to which the Mars Corporation has certain expectations and
strong as possible. The associates
in return, the associates expect a culture and environment based on
approach their daily routines
these beliefs.
with a keen enthusiasm for the
Amongst these fundamental values there are some keystones that are revered within the company, like putting the team before the
future and the opportunities they see for themselves.
individual, the importance of making use of the collective intelligence
This
and being passionate ambassadors of “A human adventure that
environment
unfolds on a daily basis.”
change can be implemented and
One of the most important factors that single out Royal Canin and the Mars Corporation in general is their the continuous learning for all associates including Personal Development Plans or PDPs, Adult Basic Education and Training or ABET and Mars University courses.
has in
created
an
which
real
can thrive.
centres, the refurbishment and rebuilding of their laboratory and the constant improvements heaped upon their factory the main
development
at
Royal
Canin still remains within their eco park, the first of its kind in the world and unique to South Africa. When originally established back in 2003, the Royal Canin site was originally empty and void of gardens, trees or grass apart from the factory buildings, by South African standards it was scarcely populated with animal
New Developments Following
the
creation of their distribution
The ongoing and hands-on development
including
a
decade
of
life, with only ten species of local birds being present. For any other organization this would
Building a network you can rely on
ELTON
On Tuesday July 31th 2012, Elton was there to produce the first ton of liquid palatant in SPF South Africa history.
The Closer, The Better
78 | Endeavour Magazine
Closer to your factories. With production sites all over the world, we offer local palatability solutions you can trust and rely on. Dedicated to bringing you solutions to fit your market needs, our local teams continually strive to improve manufacturing processes, environmental practices and safety standards to bring you the best of SPF locally. And you can rest assured knowing all SPF solutions in every SPF factory comply with strict quality and safety standards. Every day, everywhere.
not have been an issue however Royal Canin took it upon themselves to make a change and to create something that, if they were to leave, they would be happy to leave behind. Today, they now have over 180 species of bird, which include migratory birds that visit the site and a careful accounts of the animal life and fauna are taken to measure the growth and impact of this eco park. Of the mammals there is the South African Hedgehog, Common Molerat, Striped Mouse, Vlei Rat, the common Slit-Faced Bat, Cape Serotine Bat, Egyptian Free-Tailed Bat and the Yellow cvMongoose, there are other animals that sneak in as porcupine quills have been found on site. A host of amphibians including the Raucous Toad, Red Toad, Giant African Bullfrog, Common Platanna, Common River Frog and the Striped Stream Frog. Reptiles such as the Striped Skaapsteker, Rinkhals, Brown House Snake, Short-snouted Grass Snake, Red-lipped Snake, Cape Skink, Striped Skink and the Marsh Terrapin. Fish, like the Southern Mouth-brooder, Banded Tilapia, Straightfin Barb and every grass, tree and shrub that is indigenous to the Highveld. The site is fully self-sustainable with no water being used from municipal sources
Water Recycling Plant
When originally established back in 2003, the Royal Canin site was void of gardens, trees or grass; by South African standards it was scarcely populated with animal life, with only ten species of local birds being present. Royal Canin took it upon themselves to make a change and to create something that, if they were to leave, they would be happy to leave behind.
Water from the factory process is sent to the effluent plant for recycling where it is treated and pumped into the dam area where waterfalls help to oxygenate the water, which aerobic bacteria in the water remove odour and pathogens while being an important factor in maintaining the Park’s wetland aquatic ecosystem. An important balance has to be found as there are two smaller overflow areas where the African Bullfrog tends to breed, as these areas are disturbed far less than in the main dam area.
Solar Geysers With the natural sunshine and low amount of cloudy weather on the Highveld, the office admin block has solar geysers on the roof which provide hot water for 80% of our needs and this significantly removes their reliance on the municipal water grid. Other efforts include cutting down on paper by printing double sided documents, recycling bins in the admin block and using tap water instead of bottled water (South African water is of the highest quality). And automatic energy saver lights that switches on and off automatically when people come into, or leave which reduces electricity wastage. Ultimately, the important thing is creating something you would be proud to leave behind and other businesses could learn a lot from this one of a kid company.
Endeavour Magazine | 79
A VAN DER WALT TRANSPORT 00264 64415700 WWW.AVDWTRP.COM
80 | Endeavour Magazine
WRITTEN BY JESS SHANAHAN
HOW A VAN DER WALT TRANSPORT IS CONNECTING LANDLOCKED SUB-SAHARAN COUNTRIES TO THE REST OF THE WORLD A van der Walt Transport is a long haul transport service based out of Namibia. Since 1986, the company has been providing its transport services across Namibia and other Sub-Saharan countries. Endeavour Magazine | 81
A VAN DER WALT TRANSPORT
The company is fully Namibian owned with a head office in Swakopmund – the capital of the Erongo region – and a branch office in Okahandja. When the company was founded, its purpose was to transport refrigerated, containerised and break-bulk cargo throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
I
n 1990 A van der Walt Transport
became
the
first company to convey
refrigerated cargo — mainly frozen fish — from Namibia to the Democratic Republic of Congo. This, understandably, increased the demand for this sort of produce to other nearby countries. To cope with the demand, A van der Walt Transport had to expand. This meant building a fleet of different vehicles, each suited to a specific type of transport. It was also necessary
“
We offer transport of various commodity types like refrigerated and perishable goods; break-bulk such as copper concentrates, salt and cement; various container types; dangerous goods; abnormal cargo and more.”
demand enabled us to offer transport of various commodity types like refrigerated and perishable goods; break-bulk such as copper concentrates, salt and cement; various container types; dangerous goods; abnormal cargo and more. All going to and from Namibia and countries like South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mozambique.” Over the years, the company has established itself as a reputable and reliable entity in the transport market. It ensures that every customer receives an exceptional service for all of their cross-border transport needs. 82 | Endeavour Magazine
is a member of the Namibia Logistics
Association
(NLA)
and a the Walvis Bay Corridor Group initiative. This means they can play an active role in the development of the different
transport
corridors
that serve all landlocked SubSaharan countries and the rest of the world via Walvis Bay. Being part of this means A van der Walt Transport is these corridors. Not only does
routes already being served by Managing director Andre van der Walt said: “Adhering to this
A van der Walt Transport
actively promoting transport via
to expand on the different the company.
Continuously Improving
this help to promote Namibian industry but it is also helping to establish Walvis Bay as the leading trade route in southern Africa. This can only mean more prosperity for the country in the future, as well as more opportunity for the landlocked countries with the rest of the world. Walvis Bay gives Namibia and other SADC countries access to Europe, the Americas and the rest of the world as well as being a hub for all regional trade too. Being part of the NLA means that A van der Walt Transport is subject to various standards that help govern all sorts of transport providers within Namibia. The association also gives A van der Walt Transport’s employees access to all sorts of training and opportunities.
A VAN DER WALT TRANSPORT
Further Expansion In 2012 A van der Walt Transport expanded its fleet to include chemical tankers. This opened up the opportunity to transport all sorts of chemicals from Walvis Bay to different uranium mines within Namibia. The
company
is
constantly
developing
its
personnel,
infrastructure, business opportunities and the corridors it serves. The vision is to become the preferred long haul transporter in Namibia with a reputation that all their customers can rely on. It seems they’re well on their way! Already the fleet consists of 110 vehicles with 178 trailers and this number will rise to 150 vehicles. There are around 130 people in full time employment with A van der Walt Transport and another 110 people who sub for the company when needed.
the company will not offer
electronic speed control on
any transportation that may
company
compromise the health and
servicing of all equipment; and
safety
HIV/Aids counselling through the
It’s only right that a logistics company should be concerned about the environment and A van der Walt Transport understands that it has a responsibility to its country and citizens. Every job and activity is subject to a safety assessment and
their
employees,
stakeholders or the environment.
regular
Walvis Bay Corridor initiative.
There are a number of
Not only all this but they also
systems and policies in place
have a number of policies in place
to back up A van der Walt
to protect staff. This includes
Transport’s zero tolerance policy
accident and incident reporting
towards ill health and safety.
policies as well as a safety wear
This is good news for the SADC
policy, and a driving time and
regions as well as A van der Walt
resting policy. The latter means
Transport staff and clients.
that company drivers must take
All undertake
Health, Safety And The Environment
employees
must
adequate breaks to ensure they
regular drug
and
don’t endanger themselves or
alcohol tests; there are periodical
other while at the wheel of a
fitness tests for heavy vehicle
lorry or tanker.
operators;
annual
defensive
training;
quarterly
Swakopmund is on standby
training and assessments; first
and ready to act 24/7 to assist
aid kits in all company vehicles;
all heavy vehicle operators in
driving
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of
vehicles;
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The
head
office
in
case of emergency. The staff at the office are there to identify and
Walt Transport employ various technologies linked via the Asycuda
enforce control of unauthorised and danger zones; manage traffic
system – a customs management system that covers foreign trade
flow to avoid rush hours and bad driving conditions; monitor vehicle
procedures and handles documents such as customs declarations –
movement 24/7; stay in touch with drivers 24/7; and implement
to the relevant border posts for the purpose of clearing and exercise.
emergency response plans, where needed.
All vehicles are equipped with a special satellite tracking systems
Staff are trained for the various tasks needed to manage and
that means head office knows where each vehicle is at all times. This
maintain a company offering such a specialised service. This could be
helps with traffic flow, keeps the fleet moving smoothly and also
anything from driver training to health and safety within the offices.
means that staff at head office can respond to any issues as soon as
On top of all this, A van der Walt Transport is fully Safety & Quality
they arise.
Assessment System (SQAS) accredited. This system evaluates the
It is also possible for clients to track their shipments through the
health, safety, quality, security and
A van der Walt Transport website. This gives clients even more insight
environmental performance of
into the service that the company provides and gives peace of mind
logistics service providers and chemical distributors.
The Routes The routes served by the company go far and wide across the
Getting Technical In
order
that the cargo is in safe hands.
SADC countries. From the northern route up through Angola to Luanda, down to the southern tip of South Africa. The routes also to
extend east all the way out to Malawi and Mozambique. This means
ensure the safety of
A van der Walt Transport can service all these countries and all those
its drivers A van der
in between.
Endeavour Magazine | 85
KENGEN 00254 203666000 WWW.KENGEN.CO.KE
86 | Endeavour Magazine
KENYA’S POWERHOUSE LIGHTING UP KENYA WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL
Retaining the coveted title of ‘leading power generation firm in Kenya’ may be an impossibly high mantle for lesser companies, but Patrick Kimemia, Head of Supply Chain at KenGen, describes how they are committed to the task and have a suitably defined mission, designed to keep them at the top.
Endeavour Magazine | 87
KENGEN
Producing up to 80 percent of all the electricity used in Kenya, KenGen have an inherent understanding of the pivotal roles that continual development and technological advancement play in their industry, using them to remain at the very forefront of the market.
G
enerating enough power to meet demand is, naturally, one
Company, a leading distributor to domestic consumers. KenGen
of the main concerns faced by KenGen, but embracing
highlight that a commitment to nurturing skilled workers, combined
a multitude of techniques and sources has allowed the
with fiscal responsibility and environmentally sound growth plans
company to not only meet demand, but surpass it, and through
allows them to retain their position as the leading power supplier in
surprisingly ecologically friendly means. With just short of 65 percent
Kenya.
of all electricity being produced through hydro energy harnessing, it
Operating in accordance with core values of industry integrity
is clear that KenGen have a firm grasp on the importance of utilising
and professionalism, with highly qualified and trained team members
natural resources. Taking full advantage of all three incarnations of
that are supported and motivated in a safe environment, it comes
hydro-turbines currently available in the world, the company has
as no surprise that KenGen have an equally impressive focus on
equipped their hydropower plants with cutting edge equipment so
corporate social responsibility. Far from erecting large power stations
as to offer a reliable electricity supply to the whole of Kenya. Not
and neglecting those in close proximity to the impressive installations,
a company to rest on their laurels, KenGen also utilise naturally
the company documents a commitment to improving the standard
occurring thermal, geothermal and wind power to maintain a steady
of living for all Kenyans. One area that causes great concern for the
supply of energy, while minimising environmental impact.
conscientious management team is the provision of safe drinking water
Conducting business in a liberalised market, KenGen has four
and as such, the company has become heavily involved in schemes
main competitors, all of which are independent organisations, which
that seek to provide clean water collection points for communities
combine to supply the remaining 20 percent of the country’s power
and damns for safe water storage. In addition to inclusion in
needs. Despite having a clear monopoly in the market, the company
community water projects, KenGen have identified the importance of
is cautious to continue supplying competitively priced electricity in
supporting younger generations to remain in education for as long as
order to retain their customer base of the Kenya Power and Lighting
possible. For those children and young adults living in close proximity
The product of an industry separation of electricity production and distribution channels in 1997, KenGen has risen to the challenge of initiating a reliable and respected supply chain, headed up by Patrick Kimemia, resulting in the company securing an incredible 80 percent of the market. 88 | Endeavour Magazine
KENGEN
to power plants, a scholarship programme has been created, offering
rise to the top of their industry, KenGen extends a promise to train
secondary school and university students opportunities to embrace a
and develop all employees, allowing them to rise through the ranks
more positive future, with well paid jobs and technical qualifications.
of the corporate structure and unleash their potential, while enjoying
Running for almost 10 years already, the scholarship scheme currently
competitive remuneration packages.
supports over 300 students, paying all tuition and boarding fees. This
In line with a desire to uphold professional integrity at all times,
consideration for the future is somewhat rare in large, successful
KenGen are careful to enter into transactions with reputable and
companies, but KenGen do not restrict their future-friendly approach
responsible organisations, with any suppliers that show interest in
to education, they are also keen conservationists. Painfully aware of
becoming a business associate being vetted against a comprehensive
the impact made by environmental issues, such as climate change, the
criteria list. Those that meet the detailed requirements are then added
company actively sponsors, among many others, a scheme called ‘To
to the KenGen list of approved suppliers for an allotted period, within
Hell’s Gate on a Wheelbarrow’, a conservation project which aims to
which, the suppliers are able to bid for tenders. Demonstrating a clear
preserve a national park and the delicate ecosystems within.
desire to operate at optimum efficiency levels, with transparency social
and time-efficiency playing major roles, it is understandable that any
responsibility upheld by the management team at KenGen, alongside
Considering
the
impressive
levels
of
corporate
companies entering into a business relationship with KenGen must
an incredible domination of the power industry in Kenya, it is clear
also work in accordance with comparable ethics and values.
that the company, which has been in operation since 1954, has a firm
The product of an industry separation of electricity production
grasp on effective staff management. With a workforce currently
and distribution channels in 1997, KenGen has risen to the challenge
in excess of 1,800, over numerous sites, KenGen regularly seeks to
of initiating a reliable and respected supply chain, headed up by
bolster their market leadership through recruitment of motivated
Patrick Kimemia, resulting in the company securing an incredible
and ambitious professionals. In return for a commitment to upholding
80 percent of the market. Prior to the separation, one company
the values and levels of excellence that have allowed the company to
was solely responsible for the creation, transmission and supply of
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The smooth way to transport your cargo electrical power throughout Kenya, but following the crucial Electric Power Act, put in place in 1997, the industry was restructured to allow companies such as KenGen to become far more focused. Now responsible for the generation of all power made available to the public in Kenya, KenGen has flourished in the wake of significant change, demonstrating that their steadfast market leadership is no accident, but the product of an experienced management team that recognise the need to remain flexible and adaptive and above all, responsive to staff and surrounding community needs.
The company has become heavily involved in schemes that seek to provide clean water collection points for communities and damns for safe water storage.
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Endeavour Magazine | 91
LIFETIME SOLUTIONS 001 868 223 7663 WWW.LIFETIMESOLUTIONSTT.COM
92 | Endeavour Magazine
A BUSY
2014 WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
Lifetime Roofing Ltd was founded in 1987 with the registered name of Lifetime Roofing Ltd, however since then the company’s product range has grown from roofing to include, waterproofing, windows and doors, skylights, insulation, guttering, composite panels for external building envelopes skylights and soffits. For marketing purposes the company was rebranded as Lifetime Solutions in 2012. Jack Slater caught up with Sales Director Mr. Kazim Boodoo. Endeavour Magazine | 93
LIFETIME SOLUTIONS
“The company started off as a roofing contractor,” Kazim explains, “Offering an installation service for products manufactured elsewhere. Gradually Lifetime began to manufacture roofing panels and trims for steep slope roofing applications in both residential and commercial settings. Lifetime currently offers five different profiles manufactured inhouse and an additional seven provided by our suppliers AHI roofing Products out of NewZealand and Decra Roofing Systems out of the USA. Additionally Lifetime offers the most comprehensive and internationally recognised range of flat roof waterproofing products suitable for the most extreme and demanding applications.”
K
azim, who joined the company twenty years ago in the
manufacturers of the likes of Berridge, Englert, DECRA, and
sales department says that over the years, the company
Firestone, Lifetime Solutions has had to ensure that its standards
expanded its products and services to include structural
are never compromised. Robert Costelloe, one of the founders of
framing,specialty roofing products such as metal and polycarbonate
the company (the other being his wife Deborah Costelloe), served
domes and general contracting works
as a director on the board of the National Roofing Contractors
Lifetime has always been a leader in the roofing industry. It was
Association. The company is a lifetime member of the Copper
in fact Lifetime Roofing that brought in the country’s first on site roll
Development Association, The Green Energy Association and the
former which allowed full length roofing panels to be roll formed on
Metal Roofing Association of America.
any site. This dramatically improved the efficiency of its installation service not to mention the improved quality of the finished product as a result of reduced transport abrasion. “The company kept a very strong emphasis on contracting,” Kazim continues, “Over the years we handled very specialized, complicated projects of a grander scale and we also expanded our contracting portfolio geographically.having completed projects as far north as Bahamas and as far south as Guyana“. “Our retail division now operates from five strategic locations throughout the country Arima, Caroni, Port of Spain, San Fernando and Tobago. A certified contractor for a number of international roofing 94 | Endeavour Magazine
Market Coverage And Business Activities Lifetime’s primary target market is the construction sector, however they have been able to make a name for themselves in other congruent markets including home repairs, agricultural and the government sector. Kazim explains that Lifetime Roofing is a full service roofing company with a contracts, a projects division and a metal roofing manufacturing division offering roof consultations, quotations and project management services. “We have one manufacturing facility which is a full coil processing centre complete with five in house roll forming panel machines,” he
Lifetime Solutions installing a custom made steeple on top of a church in Tobago
LIFETIME SOLUTIONS
explains, “Three CNC bending
Kazim is probably one of the finest examples of Lifetime Solutions’
operational showrooms which
lines, two cut to length lines and
commitment to employees, as a qualifying geologist in the University
allow customers to see products,
coil to coil slitting lines.”
of West Ontario and a stint as a teacher, joined two decades earlier
samples, receive literature, talk
With a long list of products
and has remained ever since. He explains that one of the guiding
to a sales rep, get a quotation
available ranging from metal
principles of the company is to give employees clear monthly targets
and make payments easily and
roofing systems to match any
to achieve and that performance evaluations are held each year to
conveniently.
requirement, guttering products,
assess performance and goals.
“We have a full service
“An annual training program is held by the HR department to ensure
department for supply only and
they
that employees are up to date with new products and techniques as
supply-and-install and a fleet
also work in a full range of metals
it relates to their respective jobs,” Kazim elaborates, “Employees are
of thirty five vehicles and field
including steel, prepainted steel,
also given opportunities to move around into different departments
sales reps who visit all parts of
aluminium and copper.
of the company to develop new skills and enhance their own value.”
Trinidad and
water-proofing and all styles of insulation and skylights
Staffing And Customers
Tobago to view
“Because roofing is a very skilled trade,” he goes on to continue,
sites together with the customer
“The company considers staff development to be a very important
to offer advice and lend their
long term commitment and an investment into the company. They
experience,”
need to be kept on the cutting edge of the roofing industry.”
One of the things that
On the other side of the coin, what specific customer focuses are
Kazim is quick to highlight is the
fifty
in place to keep them satisfied and happy? Kazim explains that they
importance of after-sales and
Lifetime
have service warranties included into their product offering, three day
customer commitments and with
Solutions has a responsibility
delivery on orders and a wide range of roofing products and solutions.
this in mind Lifetime Solutions
to set a high standard for them.
They have also increased their locations with four fully
provide a one year service
With
over one
permanent
staff
sub-contractors,
hundred and
High Quality Roofing supplied in the Caribbean by
www.Steel-Link.nl 96 | Endeavour Magazine
installation warranty to ensure that any issues that come up after are addressed with as soon as possible. This forms part of the strategies to keep them ahead of their competition. This strategy is based around building upon their already established strong reputation and foundation in the roofing industry It is clear that the only real to win the race is not to focus on what the competition is doing but to focus intently on how to provide the customer with the very best and to continue looking out for new ways to do this.
A Busy 2014 2014 is set to be a busy year for this innovative, customer driven company with plans and developments including expansions, additional certifications and a scheduled rebranding with a significant investment of time and money being assigned to each to ensure their successful implementation. Lifetime Solutions is on the way to being Safe to work (STOW) Certified. Seen as part of their responsibility to their staff, this certifies that the company is a safe workplace, free from hazards and in perfect compliance with the standards, rules and regulations under the OSHAt act. “In order to achieve this goal we have retained the services of SCM Safety Consultants Ltd to assist with accomplishing same,” Kazim tells us, “This is a huge company investment which will benefit the company long term as it will allow the company to be eligible to tender projects with specific safety management system requirements.” The re-branding to Lifetime Solutions follows a development in 2012, where Lifetime Roofing Ltd merged with TARMET (Trinidad Asphalt & Metal Roofing Ltd), a company with thirty years of flat roof waterproofing experience. With these two strong portfolios combined and with the strategy to expand the business outside of just roofing, the company rebranded to Lifetime Solutions. This rebranding exercise required a huge marketing and advertising campaign to introduce and increase awareness of the new brand. “This rebranding will change how the customer perceives the company as one that is not just focused on roofing but solutions to the roofing industry.” Kazim concludes.
“
Because roofing is a very skilled trade the company considers staff development to be a very important long term commitment and an investment into the company. They need to be kept on the cutting edge of the roofing industry.”
Magdalena Grand Beach Resort Lifetime Solutions was nominated for NRCA Gold Circle Award 2013 for this project Endeavour Magazine | 97
GRU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 0055 11 2445-2945 WWW.AIRPORTS.CO.ZA
98 | Endeavour Magazine
WIDENING THE DOORS TO BRAZIL WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS
The construction of the new passenger terminal at GRU International is currently at peak with 8000 labourers on site working 24/7 and geared towards increasing operational capacity in time for the FIFA 2014 Soccer World Cup Games. However the story of GRU is not in their preparation for the soccer games but rather a focus inwards at the company and their ambitions for the future. We spoke with Bongiwe Pityi operations director about this.
Endeavour Magazine | 99
GRU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
“GRU International was founded, at an auction on the 06 February 2012,” Bongiwe explains, “The concessionaire, comprising of Invepar and ACSA won the concession to administer Guarulhos International Airport for a period of twenty years. The contract was signed on the 11 July 2012 and this marks the effective date of commencement of the concession period.”
A
t the start of the Concession Company, the focus was on
to grow passenger and cargo revenues as well as revenue from our
meeting the regulatory authority’s specific contractual
commercial portfolio.
documentation that had to be submitted. This included a
With a staff compliment of approximately 1500 GRU is well
C
three stage phase to ensure the smooth transition of handing over
remunerated in relation to the market and also qualifies for a
M
control which includes a period of observation, a period of supported
performance bonus which is dependent on the company achieving
Y
management and then a complete management and operational hand
its goals. The organisation is young and whilst a significant amount
CM
over.
of training has been done, it was focussed on regulatory training and
MY
Initially GRU Airports focus was on improving the airport facilities
now there is a shift to soft skills training to equip our leadership teams
CY
and the service levels to customers as well as carrying out route
with the appropriate skills to lead and motivate teams required for a
CMY
analysis using origin and destination data and developing strategies
high performance culture organisation.
K
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100 | Endeavour Magazine
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GRU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
“In 2013 the airport processed 36 million passengers and 280 000 aircraft movements,” Bongiwe tells us, reflecting on the operations of last year, “Domestic makes up 75% and international and regional 25% of the total passengers processed through the airport and the average movement per day is about 770. At the airport itself there are approximately thirty five thousand people working at the airport.” GRU has two close parallel runways and three terminal buildings totalling 180 000 square meters and has 61 multi-configured aircraft parking stands. “Our Customer Service Levels is an integral part of the concession contract and as such we have a two-fold approach to dealing with passenger satisfaction,” Bongiwe says, “Firstly an independent survey is done in line with the survey done by ACI, where customers rate our service and secondly a complaints and compliments facility exists at all our customer service desks where a passenger can at any time give us feedback on the service experienced.” Once done, a formal response is given to the passenger by the customer services department and both the results from the survey as well as the complaints and compliments are used to guide their priorities and customer service strategy.
2014
terminal retrofitting and upgrade
Prior to the decision taken by the Brazilian government to semi privatize some of their airports, the government owned Airports Company (Infraero) was entrusted with the responsibility to manage well over 70 airports in Brazil.
of passenger terminal buildings 1 and 2.” One of the bid requirements was the construction of a new passenger
terminal
building
to handle a heavier flow of passengers
and
the
new
concession equity partners have
“The run up to the Soccer
embarked on a major expansion
World Cup in 2014 brought focus
capital program in order to
on service levels with airports
accommodate
in South America experiencing
growth in passenger traffic and
double digit growth,” Bongiwe
cargo volumes going through
mentions, “We are currently
GRU International Airport in
undertaking four developmental
Guarulhos, regarded as one
projects, with one of these
of the major airports in South
already complete and brought
America and the biggest port of
into operation. Including a new
entry.
passenger
terminal
organic
“The airport currently has
building,
a multi-storey parkade and a
the
3
main
passenger
terminal
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102 | Endeavour Magazine
buildings and a cargo terminal,” she says, “On completion of the one currently under construction, there will be four terminals at GRU.” The new state of the art terminal has a design capacity to handle 12 million passengers per annum. Once operational it will be the home for all the 25 international carriers operating out of GRU Airport. The level of service framework will be the IATA Level C. Our commitment to our customers will be a good level of service, conditions of stable flow, acceptable delays and good levels of comfort. The airport is currently operating above its design capacity and processing 36 million passengers per annum. This development work is geared at increasing passenger, baggage and aircraft processing capacity. GRU Airport is one of the busiest in South America is currently operating and regarded as the main port of entry into South America. “The construction of a new five level parking garage and the first of its kind at GRU commenced in November 2012,” she tells us, “It has a parking capacity for 2 600 vehicles and is situated opposite the new main passenger terminal building currently under construction. Passenger convenience has been factored in its design and there are
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self-service check in kiosks (CUSS) which offer the passengers the option to avoid being caught up in queues at the traditional check in
Endeavour Magazine | 103
GRU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
counters.” GRU Airport was open for commercial operations in 1985 with minimal improvements made since that time. The retro fit project will see improvements made to a number of the areas, including enlarged entrances, increased check capacity including self-check-in kiosks, self-bag drop zones and additional space for passenger circulation and queuing areas from check in to boarding and from arrivals to curbside These changes will have a significant effect on improving the flow of passengers and reducing laborious queuing and waiting. “The retrofit of passenger terminal buildings 1 & 2, currently in operation, will increase operational capacity from 13 million passengers per annum to 17 million passengers per annum
The ease of connection for internationally bound passengers makes
and further increase the level of comfort for the
the parking garage convenient.”
passenger. The parking garage offers passengers
“In the future a hotel will be built alongside the parking garage.
the choice of leaving vehicles in a facility that
For people arriving to our shores for the first time we want to be a
protects them from the elements of the weather.
suitable welcome for them,” Bongiwe concludes.
104 | Endeavour Magazine final file _ ISS
GLS CONSULTING +27 218 800 388 WWW.GLS.CO.ZA
106 | Endeavour Magazine
KEEPING THE Water FLOWING
Clean water is something that is often taken for granted and it is enlightening to find the amount of work it takes to keep the water flowing smoothly and reliably. When you do find out the level of activity and expertise needed to do this you may never turn the tap on in the same way again. I was lucky enough to speak with cofounder and director Dr. Leon Geustyn regarding the remarkable and essential GLS Consulting. WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL Endeavour Magazine | 107
GLS CONSULTING
Founded in 1989 with the key intention of providing a comprehensive and expert service, GLS Consulting has become one of the key names in water keeping all the bases covered. Having a 50% share in IMQS they have been able to further expand upon their services and offer their clients a comprehensive solution to their projects.
“O
ur business today focusses on water and sewer system modelling and master planning,” Leon explains, “This includes areas such as water quality modelling;
risk based pipeline replacement prioritization analysis and water and sewer system asset management planning.” While being a South African company their level of expertise has attracted clients from across the globe. “We operate from a single office in Stellenbosch, South Africa,” he continues, “Serving more than thirty municipalities, including five metro’s in South Africa. Through specialist assistance to associated companies we also provide our services to clients in South East Asia, the United States of America, Holland and Turkey.” The Source Of The Company’s Strength “GLS employ highly skilled people with over half the staff having obtained tertiary qualifications,” Leon tells us, describing the sourcepool for his company’s strength, “Three of them hold PhD’s and twelve are either holding or in the process of completing Masters Degrees in Engineering as well as one holding an MBA.” With forty three staff members working for the company financial and mentoring support is provided at all levels of advanced education. Over and above this continuous high level training is provided to staff on the sophisticated technology and methodology applied by GLS and the software training courses provided by GLS are accredited for trainees to obtain CPD points. “Staff development is incredibly important,” Leon indicates strongly, “And it’s important that everyone has the necessary
108 | Endeavour Magazine
qualifications and most importantly the working experience to keep our offering at the cutting edge of our industry.”
Keeping The Customers On Course GLS has a programme of continuous research, development and improvement of skills and technology that allows for state of the art and a cost-efficient service to customers. Over the years they have managed to maintain a strong position in the market with large growth potential in its niche. This has been accomplished through their ability to apply internationally competitive software supported by a very high level of expertise and experience. When it comes to implementing this expertise into a customer focus Leon believes that individual development is not only expected but strongly supported. “All of our projects are performed against a strictly controlled and detailed scope of works and quality control processes,” Leon explains. GLS is in the process of becoming ISO 9001 Compliant and they approach each of the clients through focussed teamwork, “We perform our services via a structure where the client is the responsibility of a single team with only a small percentage of their time being taken by other projects.”
Endeavour Magazine | 109
GLS CONSULTING
This results in an “always available and informed” support service
competitor,” Leon explains, “The association with Quasset has already
to clients with a priority given to the long term relationships shared
allowed GLS to participate in major projects in the Netherlands, with
with long standing customers, some of which have lasted over twenty
large growth potential in Europe.”
three years.
While, within the South African context GLS would like to consider its combination of skills, experience, reputation and footprint having
2014 And Onwards
made the company attractive for an acquisition by an industry leader,
In August 2013 GLS became a fully owned business unit of the
such as EOH. This status was achieved over 25 years of diligence and
South African listed company EOH. Also recently an exclusive license
hard work by a group of clever people that changed very little over
for the application of all GLS’ software technology and services
time. When commenting on this Leon simply says, “There is no easy
outside of Africa and Western Europe was obtained by the Canadian listed company Pure Technologies and in Western Europe
GLS’
services
and
software technology have been applied in association with the Dutch based company Quasset. The joining of EOH provides a large opportunity for both growth
and
broadening
of
services provided by GLS in Africa. This is due to several factors, largely related to the ability to provide clients with the service as a part of a total multi-disciplinary service not only pertaining to engineering, but also IT systems, financial planning and general strategic
“
road!”
This is not a road to travel on unless as a team you have strong confidence in your own abilities and technology and are able to bear with the usual venture related perils, but the payoff is hugely satisfying when successful.”
“As far as our international associations are concerned the initial connection was related to the proven high level of technology that
GLS
could
provide,” he continues, “But since then strong reliance was made on the establishing of trust amongst individuals in all parties.” While the home fires had to be kept burning it was required from a core team tasked with the process to be prepared to travel internationally and adapt to working in different environments and time zones and this often impacting on private
time
and
personal
comfort.
support. support
“This is not a road to travel
provided also allows for GLS to
on unless as a team you have
embark on larger contracts and
strong confidence in your own
“The
strong
initiatives than is currently the case,” Leon adds, “Becoming part of a
abilities and technology and are able to bear with the usual venture
truly South African industry leader, harbouring all of the exciting and
related perils,” Leon specifies, “But the payoff is hugely satisfying
interesting diversity within highly skilled and experienced people, has
when successful.”
been an invigorating experience for GLS and we are looking forward to new opportunities growing from our existing strong platform.”
Although the formalities have been concluded, thus establishing the terms at which work is performed, these ventures still require a
The joining of forces with Pure Technologies through licensing
continuous commitment in providing support ranging from marketing
has already exposed GLS to participation in projects in markets where
all the way through to training. While the challenges posed by time
they may not have ventured alone.
zone differences and international travelling remain, “The impact
“The extremely comprehensive expertise and experience on
is offset by the numerous related opportunities provided to GLS
related technologies provided by Pure has enhanced our offering
staff and the financial benefits of working in a stable market earning
with GLS and we are now capable of being a truly international
foreign currency.”
110 | Endeavour Magazine
“Leaders in providing solutions related to the optimal planning and management of water and sewer reticulation systems”
OUR CLIENTS Johannesburg Water City of Tshwane City of Cape Town Ekurhuleni
Metropolitan Municipality Buffalo City Emfuleni Municipality All the municipalities in the Western Cape Province Randfontein LM Midvaal LM Lesedi LM Renosterberg LM Ubuntu LM Emthanjeni LM Siya Themba LM
Phone +27 21 880 0388 Fax +27 21 880 0389 Email info@gls.co.za
www.gls.co.za
ENPPI 00202 227 62100 WWW.ENPPI.COM
112 | Endeavour Magazine
Recognized as the international engineering and consultant contractor of choice, Enppi (Engineering for the Petroleum and Process Industries) is a limited liability Egyptian company. Established on January 15th 1978, and with an impressive catalogue of onshore and offshore accomplishments, we spoke with the Chairman and CEO Mr. Abdul Naser Salah regarding the steps taken to ensure the stability and longevity of his company. WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
DOING Everything RIGHT Endeavour Magazine | 113
ENPPI
As an international Engineering Consultant and EPC main contractor with many successes within the oil and gas, refining, petrochemical and other industry projects within Egypt, MENA region and worldwide; the company has benefitted from its historic footprint in the region and the strength of its focuses.
“T
he company organization is structured to provide the
Starting in the mid-Nineties, Enppi expanded its services and
expertise required for the efficient coordination of
developed its workforce in order to address the business segments
all phases of work starting from project development
in the international market. ADNOC, ADCO and ADMA of UAE
studies, to completed turnkey facilities,” Mr. Naser Salah opens up, “To
were the first international clients followed by Al-Furat Petroleum
this end the company applies state of the art technology and know-
Company – Shell Syria (AFPC) of Syria, where Enppi had executed five
how based on worldwide sources including operating companies,
major projects through international bidding.
international engineering firms and technology licensors.”
114 | Endeavour Magazine
In the new millennium, Enppi started embracing the challenges of
the future through new international business. In Jordan, Enppi was awarded an international project through a consortium structure for the Development of the Jordanian Gas Transmission Pipeline from Aqaba port to Syrian / Jordan boarders on EPC Lump Sum Turnkey basis. In the GCC Region, and specifically in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, Enppi was remarkably successful in winning international tenders for Lump Sum Turnkey contracts with Aramco and its JV companies such as YASREF and Al-Khafji Joint Operations (KJO) Companies. In addition to executing projects in Libya and Sudan. Such increase of the company’s work volume led to purchasing volume in the last 5 years to US$ 2 Billion. Outside the MENA region; Enppi had internationally expanded its business by executing projects in Venezuela. In this respect, PDVSA Gas Holding Company in Venezuela awarded Enppi several major projects in Gas processing industries since 2006 providing integrated engineering, procurement
and
project
management services for several
“
Enppi is committed to supporting the communities in which we work and live. We believe it’s important to stay in touch with our neighbors and remain committed to our own community. Through employment, we invest in people and have plans to broaden our workforce to become 3000 strong.”
Endeavour Magazine | 115
ENPPI
large scale gas treatments, extracting and processing facilities.
international business partners through executing projects as an
On the financial arena and during the past 15 years, Enppi had
EPC Main Contractor in 12 countries for BP, Shell, BG, PDVSA, Saudi
invested in newly formed Egyptian Oil and Gas companies over $120
Aramco, KJO, YASREF, QP, APACHE, ENI, TOTAL E&P, ADCO, Petro
Million in a continuous endeavor to pursue its role toward the support
China and other major partners.” Mr. Naser Salah says.
of the national economy.
The company aims to penetrate further markets such as Colombia
meCertifications turnkey for my most x pro ects.”
in South America and industries such as the fertilizers industry to strengthen its position in the MENA region and the global market
For a company of its size, and with so many people relying on them,
especially Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Kuwait.
the certification and validation of its operations has been crucial and for starters Enppi copes with international codes and standards such as ASME, ANSI, API, ASTM, IEC.
The Uniting Enppi Vision
Enppi has been approved for compliance to international QEHS
Bringing everything together is the united focus to execute
Management Systems i.e. “ISO 9001” for Quality Management
projects in the fields of Oil & Gas, Petrochemicals and Process
Systems, “ISO 14001” for Environmental Management Systems,
Industries in the Middle East & Africa and support the national
“OHSAS 18001” for Health & Safety Management Systems and
economy primarily through providing state of the art technologies,
“ISO 50001” for Energy Management Systems, by GL Systems
leadership and standards of excellence, while striving to exceed their
Certification in order to continually improve Enppi performance and
customers’ expectations.
maintain its status in the international engineering and the Lump Sum
known international EPC / Lump Sum Turnkey contractors; executing
Turnkey contractors’ community. “Enppi has established successful business relationships with
key global ions. ur others
es taking care of our customers in more than 100 countries.
“Our vision is to attain a leading position worldwide among most projects in the field of oil and gas, petrochemicals and process
Agility brings efficiency to supply chains in some of the globe’s most challenging environments and customized capabilities in developed and developing economies. Agility is one of the world’s leading logistics providers with $4.8billion revenue and 22,000 employees across 100 countries. Agility has had the good fortune to have handled several projects for ENPPI within Venezuela, Saudi Arabia and , of course, Egypt itself and in the process a close working bond has been forged between the 2 companies. Hearty congratulations on your 35th Anniversary!
116 | Endeavour Magazine
“Give me turnkey soluti ns for my most complex pro ects.”
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ENPPI
industries,” Mr. Naser Salah highlights, “This is achieved via Enppi’s
construction, pre-commissioning
Enppi Management Systems to
most valuable asset; our employees who are confident, competent
and commissioning & start-
provide them with the highest
and caring.”
up phase of various company
level of confidence for Enppi’s
projects.”
ability as a Lump Sum Turnkey
The 2500 staff members have contributed to make this the $800 million company that it is, and Enppi considers the human caliber
has
contractor. This has required the
as the most important factor in the formula of “success” for any
executed a tremendous number
Since
2003,
Enppi
loss of ego and an openness to all
organization. From this perspective, Enppi develops a comprehensive
of training programs to company
kinds of feedback.
plan to leverage the knowledge and skills of their human element
staff as well as delegates from
“We
together with applying the requested essential work values to meet
the Egyptian Petroleum Sector
customer
customer`s needs and requirements.
have
adopted
focused
a
approach
and other Oil and Gas companies
which shows that Enppi is open
This includes an annual training plan for each individual using
operating in the Middle East and
to feedback,” Mr. Salah says, “And
either in-house or outsourced experts in various fields of knowledge
Africa. Enppi is trying its best to
this includes complaints which
as well as the oil and gas sector such as: Engineering and technical
maintain the type and quality of
we take seriously and gratefully
training, Project Management, Procurement, Quality, Health,
its employees and are recruiting
through
Safety and Environmental Management Systems, Management/
the best from the Egyptian
resolving these issues as we seek
Administration, Finance and IT packages.
market.
to improve ourselves.”
“Our Enppi engineers receive on-site practical training at different sites for companies operating in the Oil and Gas field in Egypt and
Customers
being
dedicated
to
In addition to conducting the customer feedback survey
abroad as part of their development program in order to help acquire
On the other side of the coin
the necessary experience,” Mr. Naser Salah continues, “Moreover,
with the customers, Enppi’s aim
the
on-job training is conducted for groups of engineers during the
is the continual improvement of
Department,
regularly on Enppi’s clients by Business
Development they
are
also
in charge of detecting and preventing project and nonproject problems.
Recent International Projects 2014 is going to be a very busy year for Enppi who, in addition to Egypt, are currently executing
projects
in
Saudi
Arabia, Venezuela and Iraq. In Saudi Arabia, Enppi is executing a project for YASREF based on EPC Lump Sum turnkey responsibilities, Yanbu Export Refinery Project. “The Yanbu Refinery Project aims to install a new refinery with capacity of 400k barrels per day. The Tank farm package of Yanbu export refinery includes 33 storage tanks, sizing up to 1.2 Million Barrels and 13 spherical tanks 60,000 barrels each.” In
Venezuela,
several
projects for PDVSA are ongoing; the PAGMI project phase I and 118 | Endeavour Magazine
II Gas Conditioning for domestic market aims to treat and condition
the national economy and the Egyptian petroleum sector, to acquire
gas produced from the offshore area in Northeastern Venezuela to be
the latest technology and methods, to increase their competition and
used in the domestic market in the PDVSA Complex, located in Güiria,
penetrate new industries.
Estado Sucre in Venezuela. The Fractionation Capacity Increase at Jose (ACFJ) Project which aims to the development of new facilities to process the increase of NGL capacity to 50,000 BPD in order to cover the requirements of the 1st phase of NGL production increase. “Each fractionation train will be designed to produce propane, ISO-butane, butane, pentanes, gasoline, and heavy ends,” he says, “In
The Importance of Giving Back “Enppi is committed to supporting the communities in which we work and live,” Mr. Naser Salah explains, “We believe it’s important to stay in touch with our neighbors and remain committed to our own community.”
addition to the Ethane Recovery Project which aims to the installation
“Through employment, we invest in people and have plans to
of a gas sweetening plant to completely remove the Carbon Dioxide
broaden our workforce to become 3000 strong,” he adds, “Through
and Hydrogen Sulphide for the natural gas upstream.”
the execution of mega projects we will accommodate the increasing
Whereas in Iraq, Enppi is executing a Project Management Consultancy project (PMC) for Missan Oil Export Pipeline Project for
number of professional employees and through training and investment will continue to increase our value.” Soccer is another feature that has recently accompanied their
PetroChina International Iraq FZE Iraq Branch. Enppi has qualified to participate in numerous tenders and bids.
company’s name. Enppi first team participates in the Egyptian Premier
International studies point out that Arab Gulf countries and countries
League, the Egyptian Cup and CAF Confederation Cup. Four players
of South America are the future golden pot of oil and gas reserves. And
from Enppi first team were chosen to play for the Egyptian National
in this regard, the company’s business development exerted efforts
Team.
to cope with the company’s major objectives to continue supporting
Endeavour Magazine | 119
AFRICAN MODULAR BUILDING SOLUTIONS +27 114 742 701 WWW.AMBS.CO.ZA
120 | Endeavour Magazine
Founded in 2009 by Allan Bellamy, a man with a long standing experience in the prefab industry, African Modular Building Solutions is today heavily focussed on supplying to the mining industry and ensuring quality and added value to their product, throughout the Sub Saharan African market. AMBS is responsible for creating classrooms, clinics, accommodation and housing that workers and families rely on across the width of Africa.
House ON WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST
THE MOVE Endeavour Magazine | 121
AFRICAN MODULAR BUILDING SOLUTIONS
“The core activities of the company,” Rhett Bellamy, financial director and member opens up, “Is the supplying of quality sandwich panels and other products to the mining sector.” With their onsite factory, located at the same address as their offices and warehouse African Modular Building Solutions are able to manufacture approximately 160 square metres of building, during each day time shift, “With additional shifts, we’re able to manufacture over three hundred square metres of building, a day.”
D
riven by the demand for their product, everyone is hands on at the company, Rhett, who has been working there with father Allan, had to take time out, from loading up a truck,
to speak with me. “It’s hectic,” he explains, “You don’t have seasons in this business, it’s busy every single day.” Once produced, these sandwich boards and components, are palletized or loaded into crates, which are carefully packed onto a Superlink truck or into 40 foot and 20 foot containers which are then shipped directly to the customer for installation, “The emphasis is on timely production and delivery,” Rhett relates.
Learning On The Job There has been a positive shift, within the mining industry, towards taking the training outside of the universities to get people into the positions faster, to help push the working economy ahead. This has been known to place strain on some of the suppliers into the industry however this sort of employee attention has proven to be key to African Modular Building Solution’s success. “It’s important to have a tight knit team,” Rhett explains, “As an example last year we all went to Cape Town for a team building initiative.” Still a young business, the conduct and high levels of efficiency of their staff is essential, for the longevity of their company and Rhett 122 | Endeavour Magazine
recognizes that, in addition to a strong team spirit, the strength of their people relies on management ensuring that each employee has the tools and experience, to work at their best. “We have fourteen staff in total,” Rhett adds, “And as they are stretched amongst our projects, their individual development, is a major priority for us. To help facilitate this, we have found that onthe job training is essential in our business, as it gives the staff the chance to be paid, while they learn and gain experience. It also allows us to accurately assess their development at each of our weekly management meetings and to make sure that what they are learning is relevant and cutting edge.” Quality is a watchword for AMBS, quality in staff and quality in product. Fully ISO 9001 certified for the manufacture and installation of prefabricated buildings, Rhett is very specific about how their company looks after their customers: “We always strive to provide them with a quality and superior product and will never sacrifice quality for cheaper or inferior products,” He adds that regular site checks are done during the construction phase of the buildings, to ensure everything is as it should be. Aftersales service, is a very important area for Rhett, who believes that there is nothing better than having clients and customers return.
Endeavour Magazine | 123
AFRICAN MODULAR BUILDING SOLUTIONS
“We believe in our product and will always restore, replace, repair or fix when and if required.” Prefabricated buildings is a densely populated industry in the
And, having serviced some of the largest mining companies in Africa, 2014 has already started on a strong footing and should be their busiest yet.
mining sector, with quality products always being in high demand. I
Developments in equipment and infrastructure, is on the agenda
asked Rhett what kind of strategies are in place to keep them ahead
for this year and Rhett reveals that they have recently installed the
of their competition.
Manni press in their factory, to produce their panels and that this is
“We continually look at our offering, to improve where possible,” Rhett explains, “You have to improve the product first, to keep customers happy.” He goes on to explain that they currently offer a 60mm polyurethane panel, where the industry standard is 40mm and
only one part of their ongoing work, to ensure that the quality of their panels, are the best available. “We are also introducing a software product that will assist with stock control, purchasing despatch and project control,” he adds.
that this gives added insulation and is a stronger structure all round,
These additions will help the future of AMBS by enabling them to
“Safety, reliability and sturdiness is what people want when they’re
be completely self-reliant and not restricted to supplier time lines and
relying and living in your prefabs.”
issues, “We will also be able to manage our cash flow more efficiently
It is an essential service that AMBS provides: The education of children, the caring for the sick and injured, the provision of housing, offices and the management of mines all require premises. And, while it may be a task that is often unappreciated by those people using them, it is still a task that Rhett and his team take very seriously.
and this will provide a better service to our customers via a knock on effect,” Financially, AMBS is looking at an approximate internal investment of R11 million on new buildings and equipment for 2014. “Training of staff on this new equipment to produce the quality
“We’ve been involved in a diverse range of projects,” Rhett relates,
that we require, has been a lengthy process but a very worthwhile
“But over the last two years we have been heavily involved with the
exercise, as the current quality is getting to where we want it to be,”
mines in Zambia, The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and
Rhett relates, “It is a time consuming process to get staff up to speed
South Africa,”
on the software but once fully operational, will allow for more free
Prefabrication is a uniquely diverse method, offering a catalogue of buildings for a variety of uses. While at the moment AMBS is mostly involved in providing mining management offices, accommodation and kitchens and diners, in 2011 one of their projects had them erecting a functional hospital in the DRC with five 40 bed wards , a visitors ward and an operating theatre.
“
We continually look at our offering, to improve where possible,” Rhett explains, “You have to improve the product first, to keep customers happy.”
124 | Endeavour Magazine
time.”
CARL “FOGGY” FOGARTY
COMMITTED TO WINNING
With fifty nine victories under his belt, four World Superbike Championships and an MBE that was awarded to him in 1998 Carl Fogarty is the epitome of this sport.
H
igh octane, edge of your seat excitement, that’s what Superbike World Championship stands for. Far faster and far gutsier than F1, requiring more dramatic
competition and greater skill there may be fewer fans to World Superbike but they are more loyal and ardent. And for all of them one name stands out, a man who, years after retirement is still referred to as the living legend Carl “Foggy” Fogarty. Blackburn born Carl George Fogarty is considered the most successful World Superbike racer of all time. With fifty nine victories under his belt, four World Superbike Championships and an MBE that was awarded to him in 1998 he is the epitome of this sport. Although retired, Carl’s hardly maintaining a low profile, appearing on road shows across the country working with fellow ex-racer James Whitham to bring the audiences an inside scoop into the motorsport industry and their own reflections on racing. Always sold out and always well received it is an example of the sort of impact this grinning biking maniac still has on his die-hard fans. Speaking with Carl via phone, we discussed the development of the Superbike Championships since his retirement in 2000. Candid, honest, direct and always chuckling Carl had some very poignant things to say regards to the comparisons of the sport: “It’s not fair to compare different eras,” he said, “Because there
126 | Endeavour Magazine
will always be a difference. It’s a sport focussed on machinery,
year, he competed in the World
In 1995, when the two
engineering and mechanics so the changes keep it alive. The
Endurance Championship as
met again at Phillip Island, the
characters you see with the riders have grown as well it appears to
well as continuing in World
race was as fierce as before
be more competitive on the track but friendlier off it.”
Superbikes.
Demonstrating
however Carl’s tenacity to win
a style for cornering at high
proved too strong and he lifted
speeds that allowed him to
the coveted title for the first
gain
time. It would not be the last.
On The Track As his father, George Fogarty, was a road racer, it would appear
advantages
over
the
During
1996,
he
rode
the enthusiasm for racing was locked in Carl’s blood who found his
competition, his uniqueness
way onto a motorcycle at a very young age and had his competitive
made him a firm favourite for
with the new Honda team,
debut at the age of fourteen in motocross. However, it was road
fans.
however, unsatisfied with the
racing that he was destined for. Exhibiting a natural talent on the club scene and an intrinsic
his
motorcycle he returned to the
eye on the main prize of the
Ducati in 1997 and in 1998
It
was
1993,
Superbike
with
comfort on the motorcycles it was the determination and
World
commitment to winning races that identified him even as a
saw Carl on his first factory
teenager as a promising contender. At twenty three Carl was the
ride with Raymond Roche’s
Formula 1 TT world champion, a title he won back to back for
factory
three years.
will remember the epic race
Ducati
title
team.
that
Fans
He won the Isle of Man race two years in a row with the fastest
between him and American
time ever and it was thanks to a double win in 1990 that got the
Scott Russell. Although Carl
attention of the racing world and the headlines. Since then fans
demonstrated
of the sport developed a taste for Carl “Foggy” Fogarty. Many of
taking racing and did win
them were hooked.
11 races, he was forced into
1991, saw his entry into the World Superbike Championship as a privateer for three quarters of the season and the following
some
breath
clinched the World Superbike Crown. The following year, he did the same. Then in 2000 his riding career was brought to a sudden, terrifying end.
The Phillip Island Crash. 2000. The racing world held its
second place. Something he
breath during the second race
refused to let happen again.
of the 2000 season at Phillip
Endeavour Magazine | 127
Island, where a freak accident saw Carl go off track and slide into a tyre wall. “I
don’t
remember
the
accident. Which was probably lucky for me,” he recalls, “I was overtaking another rider and he pulled up in front of me, I got out of the way and hit the grass. It was so slick I just ended up sliding straight into the tyres.” In essence it ended his career. The shoulder injuries were so severe that he was told by specialists that he would only ever get a maximum of 80% of his strength back and while still being able to enjoy
motorcycles,
on
the
likes of scramblers or Harley Davidsons,
the
posturing
required for a superbike simply put too much pressure on the injury. “I was in recovery for about six months,” he says, “And then like flicking a switch I wanted to get back into it. I wanted to get racing but couldn’t do it at the same level because of the shoulder. However, there was never really an option to get out of the sport and Ducati gave me a three year contract right after, followed by a fiveyear deal to run my own team with Petronas.” “I also enjoy watching the sport now,” he adds, “More than I did directly after the accident. The fans were always right behind me and I knew I would always have a place.”
128 | Endeavour Magazine
Foggy Friday. In February 2014, Carl Fogarty was reunited with all his World Superbike championship winning bikes at the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show which was the first time that all four of his winning bikes would have been displayed together. The bikes themselves were brought over from the Ducati museum in Bologna for the show which also celebrated the 20th anniversary of Fogarty’s first championship. ‘Foggy Friday’ is being dedicated to the four times World Champion. “It caught me a little off guard,” Carl admits, “I’m really touched and excited about it. I had a lot of good memories and good victories on these bikes and I’m sure I’ll see the little things I remembered and liked about them. It’s going to be strange seeing them again and I’m expecting to get a little choked up.”
“I like the scramblers,” he
when it happens,” he explains,
says, “The fun bikes, I’ve gotten
“I don’t really put a lot of work
a bit retro and I’m looking
into Twitter because I’m not a
forward to the new Ducati
Tweeter, I’m a racer.”
that is coming up at the end of
And what are the sort of
the year. I like the kind of bikes
tweets that are likely to get
Steve McQueen was seen on,
Carl’s attention?
the scrambling, scrappers that
very
laid
back and not taking myself too
a kick.”
seriously which is the direct
The Fogarty Fans Online, Carl Foggarty has a legion of die-hard fans, made up of professional and amateur
wants to know. Of all the bikes that the great Foggy has raced,
riders and fans of the sport who
which was the best ride and why?
hang on his every word. His
“I liked the 1995 Ducati,” he says simply, “It wasn’t the fastest
touring shows, not such a far cry
I’ve ridden but it was the best around the corners and I like a bike
for the notoriously outspoken
that I can ride, one that can take the corners well because that’s
rider, are always sold out and
the part that slows down the other drivers and if you have good
every conversation pertaining
corners, you’ve got a good lead.”
to superbikes include at least a
does Foggy like to take onto the road?
become
have a good engine and a bit of
With this in mind, I wanted to ask the question that everyone
And what about off the track? A reputable petrolhead what
“I’ve
mention of his name.
opposite of what I was like when I was racing,” he says, “So I like the funnier tweets that come through.” And finally, after such a glittering and awe inspiring career who is Carl “Foggy” Fogarty’s biking hero? “Kenny Roberts,” Carl tells us, “He wasn’t afraid to bring changes to the sport and made a lot of changes to the way people rode.”
“I deal with Tweets as and
Endeavour Magazine | 129
BOOK REVIEWS
I
n recent weeks, three young women have been brutally assaulted and murdered in the city of Philadelphia. Lt. William Fogarty, a time-toughened cop, hardened by personal tragedy, is shocked
by the brutality of the crimes. His only lead comes from medical examiner Josef Tanaka. Half Japanese and half American, Tanaka, a skilled practitioner of the martial arts, claims to recognize the method used in the attacks: a karate strike known as nukite, or spear hand. Fogarty has nowhere else to turn. An unlikely combination, Fogarty and Tanaka, forced together by circumstance and neither completely trusting the other, they conduct a desperate hunt, trawling the city streets of Philadelphia and into the dangerous underbelly of the killing arts. Pursuing the Mantis, a creature who uses the flesh of his victims in a sadistic, macabre ritual of self-purification, while Fogarty and Tanaka endanger the lives of those closest to them as they inch perilously close to the precipice of their own worst fears and weaknesses. Mantis takes you on a nightmare ride that will have you holding your breath until the last page. A rather unusual thriller about a policeman and a half Japanese/
MANTIS by Richard la Plante
American medical examiner on the hunt for the most scary, creepy and unbalanced serial killer, who kills his victims in the most horrific and cruel manner. All three characters are haunted in some way or other – Joey Tanaka, blames himself for accidently crippling his older brother in a karate championship, Bill Forgaty, unable to forgive himself for being the cause of his wife and daughter’s death and the killer’s mind, warped by the physical and sexual abuse he received as a child, trying to purify himself. Gritty and gripping, fast paced twists in the plot, great character development, heart-stopping frightening leading to the final confrontation between the killer and Tanaka. If you like reading books by Thomas Harris & Eric van Lustbader, you will enjoy Mantis.
130 | Endeavour Magazine
WAYLANDER by David Gemmel
D
avid Gemmel wove together an entire world before his death, and Waylander stands as one of the coolest and darkest heroes of the lot of them.
The Drenai King is dead - murdered by a ruthless assassin. Enemy
troops swarm into Drenai lands. Their orders are simple - kill every man, woman and child. But there is hope. Stalked by men who act like beasts and beasts that walk like men, the warrior Waylander must journey into the shadow-haunted lands of the Nadir to find the legendary Armour of Bronze. With this he can turn the tide. But can he be trusted? For he is Waylander the Slayer. The traitor who killed the King...
THE PASSAGE by Justin Cronin
T
he Passage begins in the
immunity-boosting drug based
filled with superhuman creatures
near future and details
on a virus carried by an unnamed
who are continually on the hunt
an apocalyptic and, later,
species of bat in South America
for fresh blood.
post-apocalyptic world that is
eventually becomes the virus that
overrun by vampire-like beings
transforms the world. The novel
who are infected by a highly
begins in 2014 and spans more
contagious virus. What begins
than ninety years, as colonies of
Suggested on Twitter by
as a project to develop a new
humans attempt to live in a world
@LucyRuthnum
Endeavour Magazine | 131
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