MAY 2013
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2 | Endeavour Magazine
EDITORIAL Heads of Departments Editor in Chief Daemon Sands daemonsands@littlegatepublishing.com Head of Editorial Don Campbell doncampbell@littlegatepublishing.com Editorial Research Manager Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com Sales Director James Martin jamesmartin@littlegatepublishing.com Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
I
f anything, the recession has been
and
economic
changes
in
their
a purifying fire that swept across
countries. Fuel industry is still as
the globe with a straight-faced
poignant as ever and we see that
consistency. An undeniable disaster
mining and mining logistics is still a
at the time it has left the business
highly employable and solid industry
field charred and blackened but has
where projects are based on long
provided the best opportunity for the
cycles.
Any enquiries or subscriptions can be sent to info@littlegatepublishing.com ENDEAVOUR MAGAZINE is published by Littlegate Publishing LTD which is a Registered Company in the United Kingdom. Company Registration: 07657236 VAT registration number:116 776007 343 City Road Kings Lane London Norwich EC1 V1LR NR1 3PS
germination of young businesses and
The retail sector in Britain, America
fresh ideas. Having equalized, it has
and Australia has taken a substantial
given the chance for regions such as
hit thanks to online ordering, however,
The West Indies to gain the purchase
in regions of Africa and the Caribbean
required to rise to be one of the giants
where internet connectivity does not
of tomorrow.
yet support a strong online-delivery
We have also been able to see
market, the retail sector is growing
which industries are the safest to be
and firmly establishing itself with
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 publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright Š Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2013
involved. Even while Facebook has
expansion projects like the heady
recently admitted it may be going the
growth of Nakumatt Holdings.
same way as MySpace with so many
While the recession might have left
members leaving their cold, clinical
some of us with a taste of ash in our
embrace, there can be no doubt that
mouths, it is always refreshing to see
the online environment is a key place
the green shoots of tomorrow rising
for business. This month we feature
up to colour the landscape.
a quartet of gentlemen who are
Enjoy our May edition,
probably going to step in and fill the increasing gap left behind. Entertainment, food and security appear to be some of the solid industries, outliving social, political
Endeavour Magazine | 3
CONTENTS
26 Allied Caterers
FEATURES
26
Allied Caterers An Army Marches On Its Stomach
30
GK Foods Local Roots Image, An Abstract Global Identity
36
Retsol The Fresh Convenience Revolution
42
MovieTowne Entertainment Redefined
54
Nakumatt Bedding Massive African Growth
58
G4S UAE Security On The Job, For The Job And In The Job
64
Shumba Coal Powering Forward
72 42 MovieTowne 4 | Endeavour Magazine
SEMS Exploration World Class Consultancy Service And Local Values
16 Skoda Rapid
54 Nakumatt
ARTICLES
6
Blomming: Monetizing The Blogging Generation
10
The Things You Should Know If You Wish To Engage With Me On Twitter
12
Could Global Warming Actually Be Saving Us From An Ice-Age?
16
The Skoda Rapid Is Quite A Clever Car
18
Gadgets: Are You Gordon Gecko Or Bruce Wayne?
20
Business Headlines
70
Book Reviews
20 Is Online Privacy Dead? Endeavour Magazine | 5
Alberto D’Ottavi, Nicola Jr. Vitto and Matteo Cascinari
Blomming
BY DONNIE RUST
MONETIZING THE BLOGGING GENERATION “The world has changed and those with fresh ideas will own this industry.”
T
his is how my interviewee opens up the interview
Quickly let’s look at the geniuses behind this.
and in a way he sums up the crux of the entire conversation.
At the helm of Blomming is Nicola Jr. Vitto, a young man with a
The world is no longer changing, it has officially changed and
history of working for an italian fashion e-commerce company. He
thanks to the minds of Nicola Junior Vitto, Alberto D’Ottavi, Andrea
started dreaming of a startup for Social E-commerce, so began coding
Salicetti and Matteo Cascinari the creative, innovative and inventive
Blomming. In the meanwhile, he also became a Sommelier or wine
minds of the internet will be making the money today and tomorrow.
steward, specializing in all aspects of wine service as well as wine and
I was lucky enough to speak with Matteo Cascinari and Alberto
food pairing. He is Founder and Head of Product at Blomming.
D’Ottavi who took time out of their busy day to speak with him about their bestselling product Blomming. “Blomming comes from the combination of two words,” Matteo
Alberto D’Ottavi, Co-Founder, Head of Content, Community and Communication, who is a solid presence on the web, enjoys blogging and Tweeting.
explains, “Blogging and E-commerce. It is monetizing the strength of
Matteo Cascinari has been CEO, Director or Manager of a
social media and we’ve had a brilliant response to the launch of our
number of Media and E-commerce companies and is Partner and
website.”
Head of Business.
6 | Endeavour Magazine
And Andrea Salicetti - the
industry that was just begging
Senior Product Developer for
for a good idea. And it’s got the
“We have about 400 000
Blomming.
attention they wanted, indeed,
monthly users,” Matteo explains,
This
amazing
have steadily risen.
remaining 70% appears on other blogging sites.” Also
by
nature,
their
quartet
just a few days after the launch
“And about 2 million monthly
numbers represent the number
entered the industry with the
in April over 2,000 bloggers and
page views. Bearing in mind that
of people eager to make use of
intention of making something
“Social Media Lovers” joined the
only about 30% of our business
their services either to market
great and filling a gap in the
program. Since then the numbers
is done on our site while the
their products or those of others. Endeavour Magazine | 7
It is closer to a network of entrepreneurs rather than just a network of social talkers. “Signing up to the new Social Affiliation by Blomming, offers an exclusive system that allows anyone to earn money with E-Commerce,” Matteo continues, “First Sales have been made from the very beginning through the simple Social Sharing of products via a Tweet, Like, Pin, +1 or blogpost.” The key to online business is making things as easy and simple as possible. Complicated, convoluted work
very
systems well
and
don’t many
online businesses have failed to pick up the interest of their intended market because they
The system is easy: the users just need to sign up as “Promoters”, pick the products they like and share them on the Web.
think that we live in a society of education. This has changed, we are now living in a society of
strength of social media and
entertainment where everything
e-commerce. The development
hosts more than 20,000 Shops.
Blomming.com
is content driven. What’s been
was aimed directly at making the
Among
than
Based in Milano and Cagliari,
missing for a long time was a
revolution to allow absolutely
500 have already joined the
Italy, Blomming.com offers a
simple way of monetizing the
everyone to sell online.”
Affiliation program, a number
peculiar model of purchase/
these,
currently more
conceived to facilitate product search.
The system is easy: the
that is growing fast day by day.
sales/promotion that is available
“Blomming is the answer to
users just need to sign up as
Promotable Items are about
not only on your blogging site,
this and it was the brainchild
“Promoters”, pick the products
30,000 for a total 250,000
your social media site but even
of the youngest member of
they like and share them on
products
your phone.
this quartet, Nico Junior Vitto,”
the Web. Each link includes the
catalogue. The most interesting
“We’ve built it up in stages,
Matteo says, “who has spent a
Promoter’s details so that she/he
ones are highlighted online at
it first started as a widget for
long time in fashion e-commerce
earns a commission every time a
www.blomming.com/buy
and
websites, then it became a
and saw a niche to combine the
sale is generated.
a bright new design has been
Facebook application, followed
blogging industry.
8 | Endeavour Magazine
in
the
platform
Social Affiliation: We all give opinions on products and shopping advice to friends and relatives. And many of us do it on the net, where we interact daily with others via blogs or social networks like Facebook and Pinterest. Blomming, leading Social Commerce Platform, has designed its new Affiliation system to empower this. It represents a new channel for those who sell, but also allows every Internet user to give value to Recommendation and Social Sharing activities. Everyone can monetize their content production or curation. The system fits perfectly with Blogs and Publishing or Community websites such as Sports, Music, Food & Wine, Travel, Mom Blogs, Crafts, Handmade, Design, etc. Unlike other Affiliation programs, this is the first case in which promoters are able to choose products according to their taste. In this way, they will only share what their community is really interested in.
by an imbedded code for a
the very positive reactions we
success,” he says, “We can’t keep
systems available now, Blomming.
website and now a mobile
got from our Sellers, Bloggers
on sharing links of websites and
com can also be used on
application,” Matteo explains, “It
and Social Media enthusiasts.”
videos of cats. It has to be fresh
Facebook and on Smartphones
to hold people’s interest.”
opening up the opportunity to an
is easier for people to generate relevant content for their blogs by not being in an office than it is for them to be stuck in an office.”
Updating In updating the site Blomming made use of GNV&Partners, a design and front-end studio who have partnered and have been contracted by international customers
such
as
Matt
Mullenweg and Om Malik, as well as other start-ups. Nicola Junior Vitto stated that a
“E-Commerce
powerful
engine
can
be
for
the
monetization of the Net. And with the Social Affiliation Blomming opens up this opportunity to everybody. We think that this is a significant leap forward for Social Commerce. We are pleased with
You can buy, sell or promote
Makes sense, the fresher
entirely fresh group of people. It
your content the higher number
is a simpler payment model not
Blomming.com is designed
of hits you have, the higher
relying on PPC (Pay Per Click)
in a very open, manner which is
number of hits you have the more
which has become complicated
reminiscent of the leading social
sales you have. It’s a numbers
and daunting with the amount
networks that are popular at
game. On Blomming.com and the
of security procedures labelled
the moment. This has been very
various websites affiliated with it
on it.
carefully put together by these
you can Purchase the products,
“Everyone should have the
four to make their dream that
Sell the products or you can
opportunity to do this,” is the
much simpler to produce results.
Promote products. Ultimately
general consensus from them all.
“It can’t be complicated,”
depending on what you are
Alberto, head of communications
looking to do.
said, “It has to be simple because
“If you’re a blogger you want
the easier it is for people to use,
to make sure that the products
the quicker they will see results.”
on your site are relevant,” Alberto
Alberto who has brought to
says, “It needs to work with what
the team a concise and conclusive
you’re blogging about to get
vision of the future describes the
the best results and through
upcoming years of e-commerce,
Blomming we’ve set up a system
blogging and Blomming as a
where it’s easier to combine the
period of content driven success.
two.”
“We are facing new growth
Unlike some of the other
where relevant content will drive Endeavour Magazine | 9
THE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW IF YOU WISH TO ENGAGE WITH ME
On Twitter
WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST
A bit late in the game I know, but I have recently delved deeply into the action of Tweeting and as I feared I have become utterly addicted to it, tweeting my every thought, global solution, book promotion and 140 unit rant.
H
owever, after falling
tropical Equatorial line and mass
or “wet” solutions to them. Cow
the gene that makes venom
into a debate with a
farmed fruit and nut trees. When
flatulence producing too much
in scorpion tales, adds it to
student of philosophy
the civilization died out the
methane? Genetic science makes
cabbages and boom, caterpillars
from Long Eaton Nottingham
trees thrived unhindered within
cows that fart less. Too much
eat it and die. But the poison
about the philosophical standing
the conditions, overcoming the
carbon dioxide in the air? Grass
is harmless to humans. Win
of the Twilight series I decided
native vegetation and forming
that absorbs more of it. Pigs that
Science.
that it is only fair that people
the jungle we know today.
produce manure high in phytate,
Geneticists have been able
a form of phosphorus that enters
to grow a pancreas of a rat
2. Genetic Engineering Is
the watershed and causes algae
within the body of a mouse,
Good Because of Enviropigs
blooms that deplete oxygen in
which brings in a new era of
and Scorpion Cabbages
the water and kill marine life?
cross-species-reinformication.
Environpig.
1
know a few things before they speak to me. 1. The Amazon is not a natural
science
is
added
And I don’t mean like when
of
organic
an E. Coli bacteria and mouse
Robin Williams had a heart valve
Amazon Rainforest and think,
world. Formula 1 is used by the
DNA to a pig embryo. This
replaced by that of a cow or that
awesome nature, sweet, cool.
automotive companies to find
modification decreases the pig’s
American who was given a pig’s
Native Indians! But it’s only
out how fast and how hard they
phosphorous output by as much
liver, I’m talking cross species
thanks to the stories of the 1900
can push new designs on a track.
as 70 percent — making the pig
organ transplant.2
that we assume that the Amazon
Almost every major automotive
more environmentally friendly.
was filled with heathens but it is
discovery from fuel efficiency to
And for cabbages being
now accepted that the civilization
better steering that you enjoy in
eaten too much by bugs, but
term solution but it may be the
in the Amazon basin was as
your city car was once a test in a
environmentalists
complaining
short term solution we need
developed as that of Europe in
F1 car. With this in mind genetic
that
are
killing
Every generation has their
the 10th century. A society with
scientists are able to look at age
everything it touches. Boom,
own problems and has to do their
a vast population made use of the
old problems and find organic
genetic science steps in, nabs
best to fix the problems left by
phenomenon It’s easy to look at the
10 | Endeavour Magazine
Genetic Formula
1
the
the
Scientists
pesticides
3. Nuclear power is not a long
“Where’s the focus on real immortality and the inability to die ever, to be the same forever? You’ll see civilizations come and go and you’ll see humans evolve, change, but you won’t be able to. “
@godhunterbook
the generation before. It isn’t
Of Warcraft Super Mage with the
perfect but it’s the only system
complexion of a pizza can study
we have right now that works
for a government funded degree
and it’s a system of patchwork
in “Taking Long Deep Thoughts
solutions and a finger plugging.
About Being Unemployed”, you
But, like an engine, to change
simply are not speaking on the
it you have to break it all apart,
same level as me. Furthermore
lay it out on the floor and decide
if, God forbid you are one of
what to do. Would you want to
these people, do not laugh at me
be the person who suggests that?
about how “It doesn’t matter that
Nuclear energy is dangerous,
you’re on a student loan because
and the radiated plutonium is
you don’t have to pay it back if
lethal for twenty five thousand
you don’t earn a certain amount
years, meaning that it’s lethal
of money.” I’m paying for your
level outlasts our longest historic
degree so get a job if you want to
records, meaning that it will
speak with me.
be dangerous long after we’ve lost the capacity to protect
5. Godhunter is the best book
ourselves from it. However,
ever written. Ever. By anyone.
right now it produces enough
And you should totally order a
energy to keep our civilizations
copy right now
moving, our economies growing
Too many books at the
and our electricity flowing. Any
moment use immortal characters
alternative options for energy
that are functionally exactly the
development including wind, sun,
same, a focus on what it’s like
ocean and hamsters in wheels
to live for a thousand years and
should be seriously looked at to
see human civilization change.
replace nuclear power but, until
But where’s the focus on real
someone has found something,
immortality and the inability to
vigilante, a giant in a trenchcoat
and tired of the semi immortal-
nuclear energy is going to be
die ever, to be the same forever?
who handles crime the same
neutered-vampire-rubbish that
and has to be used as it does, on
You’ll see civilizations come and
way a butcher handles a hanging
is spewed out by the truck load.
the whole, not include pumping
go and you’ll see humans evolve,
pig, and is set in one of the most
If you have the taste for
chemicals by the mega tonne into
change, but you won’t be able to.
notoriously beautiful and violent
an original story, some good
the atmosphere… until it falls out
You’ll have to face the certainty
cities in the world Durban,
violence, sex and action set in
and pollutes everything. 3
that absolutely everything you
eThekweni, South Africa.
South Africa, then this is very
Godhunter
WWW.LULU.COM/DONNIERUST
could possible fear happening
This is an intelligent, Chris
4. I do not listen to opinions by
to you will happen because on
Nolan-esque take on vigilantism
anyone who doesn’t pay taxes
a long enough timeline it will all
and immortality. It’s intelligent,
happen to you.
clever and highly original aimed
Until you have the pleasure of watching a huge percentage of your salary vanish from your salary so that some skinny, World
That’s what Godhunter is about. Godhunter also features a
much the book for you.
at readers who want to have
1. http://bit.ly/KrY91
something new and different to
2. http://bit.ly/yV5JjW
dig their teeth into and are sick
3. http://1.usa.gov/11Jugi3 Endeavour Magazine | 11
WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS
COULD
GLOBAL WARMING ACTUALLY BE SAVING US FROM AN ICE-AGE? I’ve been hearing a lot about global warming recently. It’s like a spotlight roaming the crowd, it’s not always on you but eventually it’ll come back to you. It’s a conversational bundle including businesses, economies, fuel, mining, and drilling and energy creation in a tight knot. Now, whenever there is a natural disaster that occurs there is an irrefutable link back to this grey area where the solid facts and evidence are buried in a sleuth of opinions and unsubstantiated rumours.
G
lobal
warming
and
would be found mostly in the
is
poles whereas the Equatorial
is
regions would still remain warm
evidence and the arguments
and flourish. However these Ice
about human involvement are
Ages, on a long enough time line
mute - 30 billion cubic tons of
were very frequent and long
CO2 every year that is pumped
lasting.
climate
change
happening,
there
into the atmosphere is going to
This was the opinion of
have some effect. But, whether
several scientists including the
we’re at fault or whether it’s a
1787 Swiss, Bernard Kuhn who
natural development that we do
first noticed that certain types of
not understand doesn’t matter,
strata, rocks, were found lying in
global warming is happening and
areas where they did not belong.
it’s generally accepted that it may
Hundreds, sometimes thousands
not be a good thing.
of miles away from where they
But could it be saving us from something worse?
12 | Endeavour Magazine
should have been. These were called Erratic’s (Erratic rocks)
A few things we know: there
and at the time were considered
was never just a single Ice Age
to have been deposited there
but rather a series of them that
after the Biblical Great Flood.
lasted up to a hundred thousand
Bernard Kuhn theorized that
years and were interspersed
they had been carried to their
with periods of warmth for about
positions not by water but by ice.
ten thousand years. Remember
It however took a long
that the Ice Age, at its worst
time to prove including tireless
work from the Scottish pioneer
He also knew that cyclic changes
of geology James Hutton in
in the tilt of the earth affect the
1790s,
relative warmth of the seasons,
Louis
Agassiz
much
later in the mid-1800s and Jean
so
de
that
although
the
total
geologist.
amount of heat received by the
It was a difficult problem to
Earth from the sun is the same
solve convincing the scientific
each year sometimes summers
community who were at the
in the North are hotter than the
time predominantly made up
South,
of
Charpentier
a
sometimes
vice-versa
and
and occasionally exactly the
not doers, people who were
same. This pattern repeats with
interested in sitting around and
rhythms 22,000 and 41,000
discussing ideas instead of going
years long.
speculative
thinkers
He proposed that it was not
out and finding evidence. two
necessarily freezing winters that
centuries to accept the idea
caused an Ice Age but rather
that the Earth has periodic
cooler summers. Ice and snow
frozen epochs and when it was
not being thawed during the
It
has
taken
over
finally accepted it was swept up in a similar frenzy of creative activity as scientists, geologists and experts tried to outdo each other’s ideas. Fossils of giant
Ice ages last a long time, speckled upon the timeline with hot periods before slipping back into an Ice Age and we are due for one right now.
summer would accumulate. It wasn’t until the end of the 19th century that they could test his theory which basically stated that
approximately
100,000
mammals were discovered and
years ago the Earth should
this only added to the flame.
have been thawing out of an Ice Age, but at that time geological
Public opinion counted for a great deal and the most creative
throughout the year than the Northern Hemisphere, also why winter
evidence suggested they were
ideas were embraced quickly and
days are shorter and summer days are hotter. It all adds up.
in fact plunging into one. It
had the widest exposure.
There was a theory in 1842, proposed by a mathematician Joseph
turns out he had got it exactly
At the time scientists in the
Adhemar who said that the Earth travels more swiftly when it is
European community thought
nearer to the sun and spends seven days less transversing the winter
and believed in a very linear
half of its orbit than it does transversing the summer half. In the South
from
idea and marked an appropriate
winters are longer than summers and over thousands of years this
sediments and long ice cores
period on their calendar for
extra length of winter has allowed the Vast Antarctic ice sheet to
from Greenland and Antarctica.
the period of the Ice Age. What
grow. However we also know that because of a wobble of the spinning
Basically, ice ages last a long time,
followed was over a hundred
Earth, not unlike a wobbling spinning top, the pattern of the seasons
speckled upon the timeline with
years of misinterpretation, there
slowly shifts around the orbit of the Earth as the millennia go by.
hot periods before slipping back
was not just one. These periods
Some 11,000 years ago, Northern winter was seven days longer than
into an Ice Age and we are due
of global icing were frequent.
summer. 11,000 years before that the pattern was the same as today.
for one right now.
backwards. This was proven in 1970s analysis
of
deep
sea
You see, the orbit of the
This offers an explanation for not one but many Ice Ages,
However, it seems the only
planet Earth around the sun is
alternating in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. At the time
thing holding one back is Global
slightly elliptical as discovered
it was revolutionary however it was also wrong. The difference of a
Warming.
by Johannes Kepler in the 17th
week was not enough to create the great loss of temperatures as was
century. This and the tilt of the
required. But it did point in the right direction and thinking about the
to
Earth is what creates our four
influence of the Earth’s tilt.
than we are an Ice Age and it’s
I think we are better prepared handle
Global
Warming
primary seasons and also why
It took a Scottish scientist within the same period, James Croll,
typically a choice between “the
temperatures in the Southern
who worked out that the amount of ellipticity of the Earth’s orbit
devil you know and the devil you
Hemisphere are usually warmer
changes as time passes, with a rhythm roughly 100,000 years long.
don’t.” Endeavour Magazine | 13
PROUD SPONSOR LITTLEGATE PUBLISHING PRESENTS:
HUMANITARIAN CHARITY
NOT ON OUR WATCH HOST THEIR FIRST EVER UK CHARITY FUNDRAISER This summer Not
On Our Watch will be hosting their first charity
event in the UK. The charity race day will be held at Sandown Race Park on Saturday
15th June to raise funds for the International
humanitarian Charity. “Not On Our Watch” was
zones and field reports to
“We’re delighted to be hosting the
founded by Jerry Weintraub,
document evidence of mass
“Not On Our Watch” Charity Race
atrocities
along
the
border
Day in the UK this summer,” said
between
Sudan
and
Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don
South
Cheadle, David Pressman and
George Clooney. “We believe that
Sudan. The project, launched
the event will be a huge success in
George Clooney and is committed
in December 2010 and fully
raising both awareness and funds
to robust international advocacy and
supported by “Not On Our
for the Charity but will also be a
humanitarian assistance. The charity
Watch”, aims for prevention
great day of entertainment that
aims to put an end to mass atrocities
rather than cure. CNN’s John
can be enjoyed by all.”
and gross violations of international
Avlon says that as a result of
Jerry
human rights in areas of the world which receive minimal global
“Not On Our Watch” Initiative
film producer (Ocean 11, 12,
attention. In order to achieve this goal, Not On Our Watch draws
“dictators can no longer hide in
13 and Karate Kid to name a
upon mass media, international press and visible figures with
the dark.”
few) and co-founder of “Not On
uniquely powerful voices to generate lifesaving humanitarian
Each cofounder has a great
Our Watch”, will be joined by a
assistance and encourage governing bodies to take meaningful
amount of involvement in “Not
number of A list celebrity friends
and immediate action to protect the vulnerable, marginalized, and
On Our Watch” and the Charity’s
to raise money for this extremely
displaced.
work in Sudan, Burma and
worthy cause.
“Not On Our Watch” accomplishments include the launch of the
Zimbabwe.
The founders are
The Private Luncheon co-hosted
satellite sentinel project which aims to prevent human rights abuses
extremely thrilled to finally be
by Carol Hatton from Carol
before they occur. This project uses satellite imagery over conflict
raising awareness in the UK.
Joy London, Heloise Agelou
Weintraub,
Hollywood
Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle David Pressman andcordially George Clooney. You are invited
to join Tickets Jerry are selling fast, please in Weintraub andbook friends at theAgelou advance to avoid disappointment.
HH Princess Nauf AlBander Al Saud
‘NOT ON OUR WATCH’ Horse Racing
Carol Joy London
R A C ED AY & FU N D R A ISER
I N S U P P O R T O F. . .
Saturday 15th June at Sandown Park
This charity’s mission is to focus global attention and resources towards putting an end to mass atrocities around the world. Drawing upon the powerful voices of artists, activists, and cultural leaders, ‘Not On Our Watch’ generates lifesaving humanitarian assistance and protection for the vulnerable, marginalized, and displaced. They encourage governing bodies to take meaningful, Luncheon, Raceday & Partyimmediate £420 action to protect those in harms way. Where governments remain complacent, ‘Not On Our Watch’ is committed to stopping mass Party only tickets £150 atrocities and giving voice to their victims. The charity was founded by:
followed by a party at The Brompton Club
Brad Pitt
Don Cheadle
George Clooney
Matt Damon
RSVP to: prudence@prudenceproduction.com For more information visit prudenceproduction.com
David Pressman Jerry Weintraub
As a representative of the charity, Jerry Weintraub will attend the event. the year will be hosted at the line Fisico. with a surprise performance from The names of those who will accompany him on the day will be confirmed nearer the time.
from Agelou Horse Racing and Princess Nauf AlBander Al Saud.
Brompton Club by Prudence
Guests will be able to party
a very special internationally
All guests will be welcomed
McNellis Founder of Prudence
the
acclaimed recording artist.
at
Production Limited and Cleo
performances
with
a
Champagne
&
night
away
with
English
In order to raise as much money
Canapés reception, whilst close
Rocos actress, British *Liauthor mi t e dand a vaowner ila b ilitySoprano / I n vitaLaura tion OWright, n ly
as possible for “Not On Our
acquaintances of the hosts can
of AquaRiva Tequila, sponsor of
singer-songwriter
Delilah
Watch”, guests will also have the
enjoy an exclusive luncheon and
the “Not On Our Watch” Race
and
Ben,
chance to bid on a selection of
Join us for a unique fundraiser hosted Heloise Agelou, Founded by:bywith to an exciting afternoon of The night will begin a fashion Morocco. An amazing evening of HH Princess Nauf Al Bendar Al Saud and Carol Joy Hatton.
amazing prizes throughout the
VIP C h ari t y L uncheon
top
from
live
Italian
DJ
live Charity auction. In addition
Day.
accompanied by DJ Van from
racing there will also be welcome
show, showcasing the beautiful
entertainment will be topped off
day in the silent auction.
Jerry Weintraub, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Damon, Don Cheadle &Italian David Pressman. notonourwatchproject.org and concert pianist Daniel Talented designer byMatt Classenti Pianos fromKhazen. pianist Daniel Grimwood and performance by famous concert Karen K Boutique shoe range Starts at 11.30 with a Champagne and canapé reception
violinist, Nazrin supermodel Karen El- “Not On Our Watch” website: serenaded by anRashidova exclusive created privatebyperformance sponsored Grimwood. renowned
Ferrari will also concert violinist Cristina Nazrin Rashidova.
be
Tickets for this event:
Drawing upon voices of artists, and prudenceproduction.com/sandown.php The celebrity after the partypowerful of presenting her stunning fashion activists, A four course luncheon will be an afternoon of ‘NOT ONfollowed OURbyWATCH ’ generates cultural leaders, racing. Celebrity guest Jerry Weintraub and friends will lifesaving andWatch’. protection for attend to helphumanitarian the fundraisingassistance for ‘Not On Our the victims of mass atrocities around the world. Finish the wonderful day with access to your own VIP table for the celebrity after party of the year hosted by Prudence McNellis and Cleo Rocos
AGELOU
HORSE RACING
@AgelouHorseRac
VIP R ac i n g Da y
*Onl y 10 t abl es ava ila b le
Daniel Grimwood
Nazrin Rashidova
Click for Ticket Enquiries
THE SKODA RAPID IS QUITE A CLEVER CAR
BY MATT RAYNER
Make no mistake, the Skoda Rapid is an accomplished and well thought-out car – but you’ll have to gloss over Skoda’s naming convention as sporting looks and a spirited drive is not what this car is about. If you want taught suspension and a torquey punch in the kidneys every time you press the loud pedal then look away now. If you want a mid-size car with a big car feel and super mini running costs then the Rapid ticks all these boxes and more. The model on test for my weekend break with the family was
without any sense of panic. The plucky little engine needed to
the intriguing 1.2 tsi. I had fully expected that a 1.2 engine in a four
be pushed hard when required but the rewards of over 50 mpg
door saloon, with the wife, kids and a weekend’s worth of luggage
outweighed any compromise in performance. Couple that with a
would have had us pulling over in laybys to let caravans and tractors
starting price of only 12k and road tax from £30 a year and this car
past but much to my surprise Skoda’s clever turbo and modern
really starts to stack up.
engine had ushered us all along at a fair pace.
Skoda offer a host of engine variants with only the 1.6 diesel beating
I was even forgetting myself at times and overtaking on b-roads
this on mpg but around town the 1.2 works perfectly.
16 | Endeavour Magazine
“The car gives you one of the largest boots in its class, almost capable of accommodating another entire family if required.�
The
interior
well-
starts to get a little tight. The
modern and in a way mildly
of
nicely
smooth drive and well insulated
Audi-like and, although this
entire family if required.
Volkswagen if a little dull and
interior make this car feel refined
focus-sized car looks like booted
I have to congratulate Skoda
you seem to get a lot a standard.
and comfortable with the 250
saloon, it is in fact a hatchback.
on slamming another nail in the
There was more than ample
mile round trip feeling effortless
Through this clever disguise the
coffin of badge snobbery and
legroom in the back but if you
and relaxed.
car gives you one of the largest
offering such a complete car for
were over 6 foot then headroom
The exterior of the Rapid looks
boots in its class, almost capable
very little money.
constructed
feels and
accommodating
another
Endeavour Magazine | 17
THE FOLLOW ME APP Works by tracking your movements and relaying business calls to a pre-designated telephone number based on your current location. bit.ly/ZRaW3u
This app automatically tracks your location and diverts your business calls to you based on where you are. Just register your locations via the SwitchboardFREE iPhone App and when you’re not within any of your pre-set destinations the system diverts calls to your mobile. It’s like having your very own PA or stalker.
There is now an app for your smartphone to stop your committing incest, the Islendiga-
THE ICELAND APP: Due to Iceland’s small population of 320,000 almost everyone is distantly related. bit.ly/13iGTBv
App was developed by programmers in university who shared their own stories of going to a family reunion and meeting an old hookup. Now. The Islendiga-App means “the Iceland App”. It would seem like a must have for the younger section of the population unless they enjoy really awkward
conversations
the
following
morning.
ICEBLACKBOX. ANTI-BULLYING. New ICE BlackBox App Launches To Decrease Bullying & Physical Offenses www.ICEBlackBox.com
With physical abuse and bullying remaining a serious problem worldwide why not use the technologies we cling to as defence? ICE BlackBox is a revolutionary new way to use your cell phone to defend against attacks from bullies, strangers and other violent offenders by streaming information to a secure server that can alert authorities.
This is the go-to app for runners which tracks your routes whether your running, walking, cycling or even kayaking. You
RUNKEEPER IOS/ANDROID, free. www.runkeeper.com
can then save the routes and share it with friends, colleagues, relatives or enemies. You can also share this with other fitness apps you might have use with. Particularly useful if you are a hiking guide taking guests out for a walk, a personal trainer or any sort of outdoors activity.
18 | Endeavour Magazine
Are you
GORDON GECKO OR BRUCE WAYNE?
G
adgets are changing the
way
we
OMEGAWAVE www.omegawave.com £79.95 POWERBREATHE K5 www.powerbreathe.com £450.00
actual
fitness
this one has
credentials even
do
fanatical executive this wasn’t
more impressive some of our
very useful as the blood pressure
writers. It is specifically designed
there is a gadget to make
measurement
small
to “measure your readiness to
everything easier and if there
changes in blood pressure rather
train”. This is important for the
isn’t, then one is being developed.
than big ones. A measurement
executive Gordon Gecko and
Fitness used to be the activity
at rest accounted for 67bmp
Batman
of farmers, hunters and people
but after a quick run from the
physical injuries are caused from
with enough time between work,
ground floor to the sixth floor
lack of preparation. You get a
family, eating and sleeping to get
the measurement had jumped
chest strap, it hooks up to your
to the gym.
to 76bmp despite the simple two
iOS or Android via Bluetooth and
handles
alike
because
most
There is now a plethora of
finger carteroid test showing a
prescribes training zones based
apps and tech-heavy devices
whopping 180bmp. However,
on the day’s heart rate so you
designed
and
using it for the measurement of
know what rate to train at if you
improve your health. Measuring
bloodpressure in a high stressed,
want to burn fat or build speed.
everything from calories burnt,
demanding working environment
It’s an impressive piece of kit.
heart rate, fatcells annihilated
for executives worried about
Definitely something that Bruce
and expected physical recovery
their daily health and needing to
Wayne would use to keep at his
time. Gadgets are making fitness
watch their bloodpressure it was
peak and to determine if he uses
a highly specific science and
very useful as it measures small
the Grapple or the comfortable
removing the value of fitness
changes very accurately. Perfect
Batpod.
instructors opinions.
for Gordon Gecko but not so
to
monitor
much for Bruce Wayne.
POWERBREATHE K5 - Not only does it illustrate the correct
fast changing life styles which
FITBIT ONE - This one was
time to use the last ‘e’ in Breathe,
are very technology dependent
more credible. You clip it onto
the Powerbreathe also actively
there is no reason why we
your belt and slip it into the
improves your health and doesn’t
shouldn’t all be as ripped as
included armband and via an
just measure it. It boosts fitness
Sylvestor Stallone.
accelerometer
altimeter
by focusing on the inspiratory
As
FITBIT ONE www.fitbit.com/uk £79.99
the
Today
everything.
Combining this with our
TINKE www.zensorium.com £95.00
For
at
Littlegate
and
Towers
within the device it measures
system- or “dumbbells for the
everyone is the very peak of
steps, calories burned, distance
diaphragm” as the marketing
physical perfection we are often
and stairs climbed. You can then
men put it before we paid the
sent gadgets to be tested as
upload it onto your Fitbit account
price tag. You empty your lungs
our fine, temple-esque bodies
(PC or Mac) or make use of the
into the mouthpiece and inhale
are the ideal testing ground for
Fitbit app (Android and iOS) and
sharply and for as long as you can
the marginalization of results.
chart your progress via graphs,
30 times twice a day for a month
Between ourselves we’ve found
tools and charts. Simple with no
before going down to doing
that in our office we fall into two
jargon to ham things up. Again
this every other day. The idea
categories: The Gordon Geckos,
useful for determining health of
is to increase your diaphragm
always office bound, stressed,
executives who don’t necessary
and ribcage muscles strength
rich and health conscious to
go into the gym you can wear it at
over time. We tried this and
keep themselves in this niche
night to assess you sleep quality
our explosive parkour output
comfort zone and then The
and for even more self-analysis,
over two months increased
Bruce Waynes, always bounding
including body fat measurement
significantly. Obvious, perfect for
up walls dressed in a Batsuit, rich,
and body mass index. Again
Bruce Wayne.
health conscious and lethal.
Gordon Gecko.
TINKE - using an IOS device you plug in the Tinke.
OMEGAWAVE - Used by elite athletes and coaches for years Endeavour Magazine | 19
IS ONLINE PRIVACY OVER? BY JUSTIN PIERCE USC ANNENBERG SCHOOL FOR COMMUNICATION AND JOURNALISM
Findings from the USC Annenberg Center for the Digital Future show Millennials embrace a new online reality
S
urvey identifies a “Millennial rift” revealing new views about privacy on social media and a willingness to cooperate online with businesses.
In Los Angeles a new survey shows significant differences in the
way Millennials think, compared to older users of the Internet, when it comes to online privacy, access to personal data and how they share information with businesses online. The survey, conducted by the USC Annenberg Center for the Digital Future and Bovitz Inc., reveals a “Millennial Rift” -- distinct differences in online behaviour and core values among Millennials (ages 18-34) compared to other users, many of whom are only a few years older. Millennials, the survey found, report more willingness to allow access to their personal data or web behaviour and a greater interest in cooperating with Internet businesses -- as long as they receive tangible benefits in return. “Online privacy is dead -- Millennials understand that, while older users have not adapted,” said Jeffrey I. Cole, director of the USC Annenberg Center for the Digital Future. “Millennials recognize that giving up some of their privacy online can provide benefits to them. This demonstrates a major shift in online behaviour -- there’s no going back.” The survey found that compared to Internet users age 35 and older, larger percentages of Millennials report: More enthusiasm about sharing their personal information with online businesses, greater receptivity to targeted advertising when 20 | Endeavour Magazine
their personal information is
Millennials agreed, compared to
rather they perceive social media
involved. More willingness to
42 percent of users over 35 . And
as an exchange or an economy
trade
when asked if they would share
of ideas, where sharing involves participating in smart ways.
in
personal
exchange
information relevant
information with companies “as
advertising, a greater likelihood
for
long as I get something in return,”
“Millennials say, ‘I’ll give up
that they allow access to their
51 percent of Millennials agreed,
some personal information if I
personal data or information
compared to 40 percent of those
get something in return,’” said
on their web behaviour and
age 35 and older.
Coleman.
“For older users,
much larger numbers of online
“We are seeing a whole new
sharing is a function of trust --
contacts and greater use of social
set of values driving Millennials
‘the more I trust, the more I am
networking.
in their behaviour online,” said
willing to share.’”
Ironically, the survey found a
Greg Bovitz, president of Bovitz
large percentage of Millennials
Inc. “The fact that Millennials
and an even larger percentage
are willing to part with personal
of users age 35 and older are
information
new
annual survey by the Center for
uncomfortable
others
opportunities for businesses to
the Digital Future also reveal
having access to their personal
develop marketing models that
that Millennials are more active
data online or information about
capitalize on the wants of this
on social networks compared to
their
generation of Internet users.”
non-Millennials. The survey also
web
with
behaviour.
When
creates
Millennials generally have more online contacts. Related findings from the
asked about the statement, “No
Millennials are also more
one should ever be allowed to
receptive than older users to
contact
have access to my personal data
accepting targeted advertising
through social networking than
or web behavior,” 70 percent of
when their personal information
users over 35 do. The average
Millennials agreed, compared
is required. When asked about
number
with 77 percent of users 35 and
the statement, “I’m ok with
Millennials
older.
trading some of my personal
through social networking sites
found that Millennials regularly many
of
more
people regularly
people
whom contact
However, in spite of those
information in exchange for more
is 18, compared to only five for
views, significant percentages of
relevant advertising,” 25 percent
users over age 35.
Millennials compared to those
of Millennials agreed, compared
age 35 and older are willing to
to 19 percent of Internet users
frequent
give up some of that privacy.
age 35 and older.
networking sites than older
Millennials are also more
Again, only if they benefit from it.
“Millennials think differently
When asked if they would
when it comes to online privacy,”
(48
share
their
location
users
of
social
users; almost half of Millennials percent)
visit
social
websites
several
with
said Elaine B. Coleman, managing
networking
companies in order to receive
director of media and emerging
times a day, compared to only
coupons or deals for nearby
technologies for Bovitz. “It’s not
20 percent of users age 35 and
businesses,
that they don’t care about it --
older.
56
percent
of
May book reviews
Go to page 70 for our latest book reviews.
Endeavour Magazine | 21
TURNING GREASE INTO DIESEL All-American Restaurant Chain Johnny Rockets Contributes to a Greener Earth
J
ohnny Rockets along
green program, Johnny Rockets’
“Johnny Rockets continually strives for ways to make our
with DAR PRO Solutions
29 corporate-owned restaurants
restaurants more eco-friendly and leave a lighter footprint on our
recycle all the restaurants’
recycle nearly 7,200 pounds of
environment,” states John Fuller, President and CEO. “As an all-
used fry oil into renewable diesel
Used Cooking Oil per year, per
American restaurant chain, we are proud to do our part to be socially
fuel.
restaurant. The collection and
responsible and our partnership with DAR PRO Solutions is a great
recycling of Waste Oil not only
way to give back to our communities and environment.”
Each year, Johnny Rockets million
saves and produces energy, it
DAR PRO Solutions offers environmentally-safe methods for
pounds of American Fries and
also keeps the used product out
disposal and sustainable use of fry oil for national restaurant chains,
two million orders of Onion
of waterways and addresses the
grocery retailers and other food service businesses. The company
Rings, all of which use fry oil.
growing demand for renewable
converts animal fats and recycled greases, as well as plant oils such
Through DAR PRO Solution’s
energy sources.
as soybean oil into its exclusive biodiesel fuel, called Bio G-3000™
serves
about
eight
WE ARE HIRING Congratulations to Alex Smith on his promotion to Editorial Research Manager. Due to expansion we are recruiting Senior Editorial Researchers. Please contact alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com and the upmost confidentiality will be assured. Great company, hours and incomes.
22 | Endeavour Magazine
Premium Biodiesel fuel.
Bio
G-3000™ can be used in place of diesel fuel without engine modification
or
performance
reduction and is the fastest growing domestically produced
YAHOO! PARTNERS WITH VSERV.MOBI Y FOR MOBILE MONETIZATION ACROSS SOUTHEAST ASIA ahoo! Inc. has forged a strategic alliance with Vserv.
highlighted the company’s plans
mobi, a leading global mobile ad network, to monetise
for expansion & hiring across all
Yahoo’s premium mobile inventory. This partnership will
key Southeast Asia markets in
extend across key markets in Southeast Asia including Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
alternative fuel.
the coming year.
Vserv.mobi is a leading Global
or
Commenting on the partnership, Vikas Gulati, VP - Business
Mobile Ad Network with a strong
biofuels, is only one way that
Development, Southeast Asia, Vserv.mobi , said, “Reflecting our
presence in emerging markets.
we contribute to greening of
strategic vision of enabling a win-win proposition for all our
Vserv’s pioneering technology
America, but in the recent past
stake-holders, we believe that today’s announcement will rake in
AppWrapper™
it has become the most talked
lucrative benefits for both Yahoo! and the advertiser ecosystem.
Click
about use for our recycled
Being a premium digital publisher with a phenomenal number of
20,000+ Apps across platforms.
grease,”
Sales
loyal viewers, Yahoo will be able to effectively offer their mobile
AppWrapper™ is the World’s
Accounts
inventory to our wide advertiser base across Southeast Asia, while
Simplest App Monetization - it
being able to monetise it with optimal yields within the region.”
enables
“Renewable
Manager
Bill
energy,
Morris,
Chain
for DAR PRO, states. “Our
App
powers
One
Monetization
premium
for
advertising
partnership with Johnny Rockets
& innovative pricing
is a testament to the fact that
models on any app,
foodservice organizations are
without coding, in just
working towards sustainability
one click. “As the only only
goals and are adding value to the
Ad Network with App
idea of a sustainable business.” DAR PRO recently partnered
media across feature
with Valero Energy Corporation
phones, smart phones
in a joint venture to build a Green
and
Diesel plant, which is designed
provides
to produce 9,300 barrels of
unparalleled
renewable diesel per day. The
and
Plant will make use of the Norco
This could very well
tablets
Vserv
advertisers reach
engagement.
and
Dippak Khurana, CEO & Co-Founder, Vserv.mobi , further
be the necessary trunk card
7000 domestic stores to make
added, “With this partnership, our advertisers will be able to
needed for Yahoo to get ahead
Diamond Green Diesel available
leverage the powerful combination of our network’s superior
of their competitors such as the
nationwide. The Diamond Green
audience targeting capabilities with Yahoo’s premium inventory.”
corporate giants of Google. “
LA
Refinery’s
pipelines
Diesel facility will convert as
Founded in 2010, Vserv.mobi is an award winning Global
When the giants of the
much as eleven percent of the
Mobile Ad Network, having been named “Media Company of the
internet are vying for the lead in
U.S.’ animal fat and used cooking
Year” at the MMA Smarties and listed in the Red Herring Top 100
the race for being the most used
oil into renewable diesel
Award. With the company’s flagship platforms AppWrapper™ and
Search Engine and the “next big
is
AudiencePro™, Vserv presents a compelling value proposition for
thing” you can be guaranteed
difficult, but this allows us to
the entire mobile ecosystem, including brand advertisers, premium
that the outcome will have a
change the fuel that our lifestyles
publishers, app developers and telecom providers. The company
definite effect on the way we all
run on- this is how we’re going to
had recently announced its massive growth in Southeast Asia, with
work.
change the world.
Ad Requests growing 6X in the region. The announcement had also
Changing
lifestyles
Endeavour Magazine | 23
DSM EXPANSION DOWN UNDER BY GUY TIENE
DSM Pharmaceutical Products, the custom manufacturing and technology business of Royal DSM which appears on the NYSE, Euronext: DSM KON, announced earlier this month that their new cGMP custom biopharmaceutical manufacturing ‘biologics plant of the future’ will open in June 2013.
The DSM facility was built with
the
to the Australian biotechnology
Queensland and Commonwealth
industry and will be a key
Governments
from
contributor to the entire Asia-
of
Australia.
Karen King, President of DSM
Pacific region.”
Biologics, the biopharmaceutical
Alexander
Wessels,
manufacturing business of DSM
President and CEO of DSM
Pharmaceutical Products, stated,
Pharmaceutical
“We are thrilled to announce
commented, “We are particularly
the June opening of our new
delighted to be bringing our
cGMP
facility
Brisbane.
world-class
This
operation
in
Products
operating
ability
combines
to the Asia-Pacific region, an
DSM’s twenty five years of
important growth area in our
experience and high quality
strategic development in the
track record in mammalian cell
biopharmaceutical
culture manufacturing with a
provide further value to our
state-of-the-art
customers in this region and
and Our
24 | Endeavour Magazine
cooperation
has led to this important addition
commercial
development partnership
facility. with
field;
to
around the globe.” Australia
the
has a vibrant biotechnology
Government of Queensland and
industry, but previously had
the Commonwealth of Australia
no custom mammalian-based
Netflix is bigger than you think. Netflix has
and totally delicious failure that tasted too
been on a roll recently. They just announced
good to not sell.
higher than expected earnings and their
Pepsi once owned the largest fleet of
original programming is garnering a lot of
submarines in the world. In 1990, Pepsi and
praise from critics. House of Cards, one
the Soviet Union made one of the most famous
of their original shows is predicted to
trades ever. In exchange for Pepsi products,
win a number of Emmys, and Arrested
the Soviets gave Pepsi Stolinchnaya Vodka
Development will probably bring down the
and a ship fleet consisting of 10 commercial
Internet for a few hours when it comes out in
ships, 17 submarines, a cruiser, a frigate and
May. In fact, during the peak hours of 9pm-
a destroyer! Worth $3 billion, it allowed
12am streaming video takes up 65% of all
Pepsi to expand their bottling network in the
North American traffic, and Netflix accounts
Soviet Union and it also helped the Russian
for half of that, or 33% of total Internet
Vodka market expand in the US. As this is
traffic! The second highest is Amazon at
not used in the marketing strategy against
1.8% of traffic!
their nemesis Coca Cola it has to be because
Milk Duds are named after a failed
this fleet is actually well in use. (They were
experiment.
actually sold for scrap soon after).
Quite
possibly
the
most
delicious snack any human mouth has ever
You can clone your dog in South Korea. It
tasted and the mainstay diet of Twilight
costs a smooth £50 000.00 but you are
fans. The name ‘Milk Duds’ doesn’t seem
completely allowed to do it. If you’ve ever
too appealing, they might as well have called
had to say goodbye to your best friend you’ll
the snack ‘Milk Failures’. So, why exactly did
see the sense in this.
Hershey decide to name the snack ‘Milk
Always read the small print. PCPitstop in
Duds’ when they bought the company back
the States once hid a $1000.00 prize in their
in the 1920’s? Well they wanted to make thea
Terms and Conditions on the website and it
delicious candy that was perfectly round
took five months and over 3000 sales to find.
however, due to the limited technology, they
Why did they do it? they didn’t think anyone
weren’t. it was therefor deemed a complete
would bother reading it.
biopharmaceutical manufacturing operation in country.
The
Sciences and Materials Sciences
Queensland Government formed BioPharmaceuticals Australia
DSM
(BPA), who has partnered with DSM to bring this new facility and
prosperity,
is
driving
economic
operation to Brisbane.
progress and social advances
environmental
David Hughes, CEO of BioPharmaceuticals Australia said,
to create sustainable value for
“The opening of this facility satisfies a national capability gap. Our
all stakeholders. DSM delivers
partnership gives Australia and the wider region access to DSM’s
innovative
extensive experience, expertise and ongoing commitment to
nourish, protect and improve
developing improved bioprocessing technologies. DSM’s operations
performance in global markets
are a good strategic fit with Australia’s existing capabilities and we are
such
already seeing flow-on benefits from local alliances.”
supplements,
The DSM operation will provide cGMP mammalian cell-culture
as
solutions
food
and
personal
that
dietary care,
feed, pharmaceuticals, medical
contract manufacturing services from process development through to
devices,
commercial manufacturing. DSM Biologics operates with all standard
electrical and electronics, life
technologies and also has a portfolio of proprietary technologies for
protection, alternative energy
the optimization of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, reducing the
and bio-based materials. DSM’s
cost and risk of mammalian cell culture. The facility has an output
23,500 employees deliver annual
capability of 500kg and has expansion space available for further
net sales of around € 9 billion.
capacity utilization.
The company is listed on NYSE
Royal DSM is a global science-based company active in health,
automotive,
paints,
Euronext.
nutrition and materials. By connecting its unique competences in Life Endeavour Magazine | 25
ALLIED CATERERS 001 868669 4213 WWW.ALLIEDCATERERS.COM
26 | Endeavour Magazine
WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL
AN ARMY MARCHES ON ITS STOMACH
It has been said that “An army marches on its stomach,” and has always been a fundamental truth of war and, today, business. Dealing with the long hours offshore or in the air, the physical and indeed psychological wellbeing of any staff member begins with a healthy and well balanced diet. There is one company in Trinidad and Tobago who has garnered this niche industry and provided an peerless level of quality and service. Don Campbell had the chance to speak with General Manager Trinidad Gillian Huggins. With over thirty five years in business Allied Caterers Ltd, Trinidad’s premier industrial and events caterer, has grown with their industry working at pace to keep ahead of their competition and making full use of their experienced and well trained staff. Servicing the airline as well as the offshore industry. “Our company is well known for high quality and full service catering,” Gillian tells us, “We pride ourselves on providing to our clients a culinary experience that is second to none.”
Endeavour Magazine | 27
ALLIED CATERERS
Gillian Huggins, General Manager of Trinidad comes with twenty three years-experience in progressively challenging positions in Administration, Organisational and Business Development, Finance and Accounting, in Commercial, Industrial and State Enterprise. Her specific areas of expertise are: Operations Review and Analysis, Review and Analysis of Work Flows and Procedures and Development of Business and Strategic Plans.
Quote
A
pproaching her work with keen strategic mind set she
we’re not catering for passengers
has experience in three main areas of the food industry,
but for people who live there.
Flavour manufacturing, snack manufacturing and
Their needs are completely
catering services.
different. They need healthy,
“I have a passion for catering and event management,” she reveals,
well balanced meals. So we
“Over the years I’ve been blessed to be able to work in varied and
consistently provide them with
diverse scenarios and have learned a great deal.”
a menu, submitted a month in
Holding a BSC in Industrial Management (Hons) from the university of the West Indies, St. Augustine Gillian, who is also a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a woman with a determination to lead by example. In India she underwent intensive training at the Entrepreneurship
advance to be approved by the Offshore Installation managers.” Allied Caterers also offer hospitality offshore
services industry.
to
the
Keeping
Development Institute in India, both on a Macro and Micro scale
the rooms, bed sheets and
and joined Allied Caterers TT in 2008 as Financial Controller but
furnishings
was promoted to General manager in 2011. A valuable asset with a
living there. Offshore work has
reputation of getting results that not only meet the high standards of
the reputation for involving
the company but surpass them.
long gruelling hours in often
“I have a passion for giving back,” Gillian reveals, “If you’re going to succeed you have to exceed the expectations.”
The State Of The Industry “The industry is competitive at the moment,” Gillian tells us, “But we do have the edge. It takes a great deal of coordination, planning and logistical activity. We ensure a high quality of service by adhering to our strict policies and standards that permeate all sectors of our business including the airlines and the offshore business. “Two primary examples if we were to look at the airline industry - the menu is cycled every three months and the food has to be of a high standard while still falling within the load (weight/specification) required for the aircraft. United Airlines audits us every month to ensure strict adherence to every step of the food preparation, through to delivery on board the aircraft. “Offshore is a completely different scenario, as with offshore, 28 | Endeavour Magazine
clean
for
those
unsavoury conditions and a price cannot be put on the psychological impact of coming
The company’s Restaurants and Events division
provides industrial catering to offices, factories, banks and educational institutions including Nestle Trinidad Limited, The Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, BHP Billiton and Unilever Trinidad. This division also engages in full Events Management, coordinating events such as brand launches, corporate symposia, weddings, business meetings and offers in-home, fine dining, and other services.
possess the diligence, the drive
increase not only their footprint on the market but also their service
and ambition to succeed but lack
abilities.
the guidance. I wanted to ensure we provided them that.”
a good position on the offshore oil production platforms but we are
A training matrix has been
aiming to get into drilling because it would be a plug and play scenario.
put in place to keep the staff
We believe we can offer a farther reach for this industry and would
up to scratch and as Allied
like to have a solid hold on it as we have on the airlines.”
Caterers is part of the, Goddard Catering
to a clean room with fresh bed sheets. The continuous push to establish footholds on applicable areas
of
catering,
their
industry,
hospitality,
management
has
ie.
event
benefitted
Allied Caterers greatly. They have an established monopoly on the flights coming in to Trinidad and are the preferred service provider for offshore oil production platforms in their region. With clients including BPTT, Repsol YPF, BHP Billiton, British Gas Trinidad and the National Gas Company.
reputation of Allied Caterers and the strength of their name would not be possible if not for their staff. Of the four hundred plus who
work
and
by
with
Gillian, at their plant in Trinidad or in the kitchens on the offshore rigs, each one is provided with all the tools they need to develop themselves professionally. “We see employees as our most valuable asset,” Gillian explains, “I work with people. I’ve seen how so many people, be them entrepreneurs or our staff,
year as one of the mechanisms for expansion. “Whenever there is a shutdown at a platform for maintenance
Ltd., employees benefit from
we fly food in on a daily basis,” she explains, “This is refrigerated to
promotion, career development
keep fresh and we have a particular brand of oven that we utilise to
and mobility not only within
reheat the food on the platform. This is all in aid of serving safe meals.
Allied Caterers LTD but also
Development in this area would be a major factor in the upcoming
within the group.
year.”
“We place a high value on experience,” Gillian Huggins.
“At the core of everything are our quality and standards,” Gillian concludes.
Accountability Everything
that
Allied
Caterers LTD does is audited and thoroughly checked over, unlike many companies they are entirely focused on the quality and standard of their products and would rather have a reputation for that than a reputation for omnipotence. “Nothing is perfect,” Gillian accidents
The impressive and flawless
employees
Group,
Innovations within the food business is also a focus for Gillian this
extension, Goddard Enterprises
reminds us, “But if even little
Staff
“Business expansion is priority for 2013,” Gillian affirms, “We have
are
allowed
then
Meet the Executive Chef - Merrick Wilmot
At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Merrick Wilmot. Born in England, he has been in the industry since 1974 working within the hospitality industry. A culinary master Chef Merrick has studied at Huddersfield College, has worked in London and the Kensington Hilton in Jamaica and understands the chemistry of ingredients and has the passion needed to put them together to create something wondrous. “Our Cuisine takes its inspiration from many light and healthy international and contemporary styles of cooking and adaptations of traditional Caribbean dishes. While Our Menus are distinctive and flavourful, they are balanced with our desire to provide healthy choices to our customers.” Chef Merrick.
they can quickly accumulate into major issues, if you’re not accountable enough to fix it at the start. Our quality and safety managers work closely not only with our customers but also with our staff to see how things can be improved, and if accidents have happened how best to safeguard against them.”
New developments 2013 Customers quality
at
demand
the
best
high rates
and Allied Caterers plans to further meet this conundrum through
business
expansions
and strategic alliances that will Endeavour Magazine | 29
GK FOODS 001 876 922 3440 WWW.GRACEKENNEDY.COM
30 | Endeavour Magazine
LOCAL ROOTS IMAGE, AN ABSTRACT GLOBAL IDENTITY WRITTEN BY DJAMIL BENMEHIDI
The GraceKennedy brand is one which considers itself synonymous with the Caribbean and is proud of the roots culture which still lies at the heart of the business. The company’s food and beverage manufacturing subsidiary, GraceKennedy Foods, has combined a love and passion for Caribbean cuisine, cheap, mass food production capabilities and a global footprint to achieve its mission statement of satisfying the unmet needs of Caribbean people wherever they live in the world. Today GraceKennedy Foods brings a taste of the Caribbean to people in every part of the world, and is still riding a wave of high growth which continues to lead the business into an ever increasing number of food and beverage markets in an increasing list of countries. Endeavour Magazine found out more about the GraceKennedy success story.
Endeavour Magazine | 31
GK FOODS
GraceKennedy is a name which is very well known and either much loved or much regarded across the Caribbean, in particular the GraceKennedy Foods division of the business and its best-selling brands of manufactured food and beverages.
Quote
T
his brand, which is also
sporting events; activity which no
well recognised outside
doubt helps give GraceKennedy
of the Caribbean among
credibility as a business which is
Jamaican expatriate communities
loyal to its local roots, something
across the globe, is a subsidiary
which
part of GraceKennedy Limited, a
certainly never compromise in its
multi-billion USD Jamaica-based
desire to become an established
conglomerate with numerous
name in global business.
financial sector, food and retail
However
company
in
would
contrast
to
subsidiaries and interests within
GraceKennedy’s success story
its portfolio. In addition to this
today, the company’s birth as
business activity, GraceKennedy
32 | Endeavour Magazine
the
Grace, Kennedy & Company
is also active in the running of
Limited,
in
February
1922
philanthropic foundations which
was altogether more humble.
have provided support to the
Founded by Dr. John J. Grace
poor and disenfranchised in the
and Mr. Fred William Kennedy,
Caribbean region, as well as
Grace, Kennedy & Company
the sponsorship of high profile
Limited initially started life as a
general mercantile and commercial business which traded in a diverse range of products, ranging from food stuffs, coffee, hides and soaps to name but a few. During its early history, the business faced much in the way of adversity, as a result of events like the Great Depression, the sudden of imposition of trade restrictions with Nazi Germany in the 1930’s and the loss of European markets following the outbreak of World War II. In spite of such challenges, the company maintained steady growth throughout this period and by the 1950’s was enjoying sales of over £1 million. An explosive period of meteoric growth during the 1960’s and 1970’s, thanks to the considerable expansion and diversification of business activities, as well as the addition of numerous acquisitions to the Grace, Kennedy & Company Limited portfolio, saw annual turnover surpass the $1.5 billion mark by 1980, a trend which continued throughout the 1990’s and 2000’s. Today the company is valued at $30.6 billion in terms of shareholder equity and over $100 billion in terms of its total global assets; which all in all is not bad for a business which proudly boasts the dubiously named cock soup amongst its vast selection of products and services. Through the utilisation of its parent company’s global reach and extensive resources, GraceKennedy Foods has shown an unerring commitment towards the expansion and diversification of its food
Endeavour Magazine | 33
GK FOODS
and beverage manufacturing operations. As a result of this, the
easy in the knowledge that
to continue the rapid upward
GraceKennedy Foods division has successfully penetrated the
profit margins will improve, as
thrust of its food division, in
food and beverage markets of dozens of countries across the globe
will their long-term employment
line with GraceKennedy’s other
and today enjoys a reputation as one of the leading providers of
prospects.
expanding business subsidiaries
Caribbean ethnic foodstuffs in every corner of the world. In particular,
In light of the division’s rip
GraceKennedy Foods has thrived in countries such as the UK,
roaring success in recent years,
like its business and banking
Canada and US which have societies that are something of a multi-
GraceKennedy Food intends to
The company has provided
cultural melting pot and a home away from home for large Caribbean
continue its adherence to this
a blueprint for success that
expatriate communities.
long-term 2020 Strategy, and
many in the business community
This aggressive strategy of foreign market penetration follows
will continue to push boundaries
would do well to follow, and truly
the implementation of the ‘2020 Vision’ strategy in 2010, which
and expand horizons as it strives
shows what can be achieved with
segments.
was intended to “transform GraceKennedy from a Jamaican trading company to a global consumer group with our roots in Jamaica” according to company President Lucky Lankage. GraceKennedy has undeniably demonstrated its unwavering loyalty to its island roots, a point proven by the fact that less than 50% of the food sold under the Grace brand is now manufactured in Jamaican factories. And with GraceKennedy planning to push its range of food and beverage products into the fast growing Far-Eastern markets as well as an unspecified portion of its manufacturing processes, the company’s Jamaican based staff and agricultural suppliers will no doubt rest
34 | Endeavour Magazine
GK Foods has provided a blueprint for success that many in the business community would do well to follow
dynamic leadership, innovative business practices and $30 billion in the bank. The proof is in the pudding; it is the reason that consumers on every continent from the Americas to Europe, Africa to Asia will
Consumers on every continent from the Americas to Europe, Africa to Asia will soon be able to sample the pleasures of the finest Caribbean cuisine.
soon be able to sample the pleasures of the finest Caribbean cuisine, exports such as Grace coconut water, ginger beer, kidney beans, sardines and of course cock soup. Delicious cock soup. GraceKennedy is one of the largest single-entity food manufacturers in the Caribbean. Over 50 per cent of the food sold under the Grace brand is manufactured in one of our four ISO and HAACP certified factories in Jamaica. For example, the highly successful Grace Tropical Rhythms line was developed at Grace Food Processors (Canning) and continues to be manufactured there. The inimitable Grace Cock Soup, a range of packaged soups, and our new range of Grace Instant Porridges is manufactured at our subsidiary, National Processors (NALPRO) in Temple Hall, Jamaica; while the Grace Hams and Grace Vienna Sausages are processed at Grace Food Processors our meat processing plant in Savanna la Mar, Jamaica. Dairy products such as Tastee Cheese and the popular This is Really Great Yoghurt are manufactured in Jamaica at Dairy Industries Jamaica Limited, a joint venture between GraceKennedy and Fonterra, New Zealand.
Endeavour Magazine | 35
RETSOL 0027 87 353 4912 WWW.RETSOL.CO.ZA
36 | Endeavour Magazine
fresh
THE CONVENIENCE REVOLUTION
WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL
Retsol was established in 2002 with the vision of becoming SA’s leading, privately held bakery & food franchise company. However, 2007 marked the beginning of Corner Bakery as it is known now when Retsol Stores (Pty) Ltd purchased the Corner Bakery trademark and business. The strategy for Retsol was to focus the company’s attention and hone it’s speciality in the convenience food market. Corner Bakery now specialises in offering the convenience market great bakery and fast food solutions, as well as Equatorial Coffee, which is an exclusive coffee brand launched by Retsol. In the African market the convenience channel is dominated by the petroleum forecourt stores and Retsol have moulded a convenience food solution that caters precisely for the challenges that this channel faces in trying to add a ‘fresh’ solution to their retail offer.
Endeavour Magazine | 37
RETSOL
As the largest forecourt bakery network in SA, Corner Bakery aims to become the largest bakery food service franchise/ brand in Sub Saharan Africa. Currently Corner Bakery boasts in excess of 300 sites within South Africa with the number expanding monthly. Retsol plans to continue this aggressive expansion into Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands and beyond, and are making great strides in this arena with Corner Bakery sites already set up across Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, Reunion and Mauritius.
T
he Success of Corner
retailer, and sold it to Profurn in 1998. He is also a former executive
Bakery can be attributed
director of Profurn Holdings (a previously JSE-listed ALSI 40 mass
to the entrepreneurial
market furniture and appliance retailer – Morkels, Protea Furnishers,
spirit and experience of its
Barnetts Furnishers, Hi-Fi Corporation and Supreme Furnishers).
directors, Wayne Duncan, Gary
Retsol’s managing director, Gary Milne, has had extensive
Milne and Jason Knox. Along
operational experience in managing branded casual dining and fast
with the dedicated management
food outlets. He’s flair for successfully managing and growing brands
and operation team they have
markedly showed itself when he managed the operational aspects
built over the past 12 years.
of the Nando’s UK brand. Gary’s influence was pivotal in guiding
Wayne Duncan, who started
the brand from a single take away outlet to a sit-down, casual dining
his career as a Unilever Scholar
brand. His departure from Nando’s UK saw him plough his skills and
working for Unilever SA and
experience in the Spirit Pub Group, which he joined as the operations
Australia is the chairperson
director of their food led pub division of 220 outlets. While with Spirit
and director at Retsol. He has
he was part of the management team that led the acquisition of the
had vast general management
Scottish and Newcastle Pub Business.
experience in the franchising/
Jason Knox, an integral part of the team, is the Financial Director
retailing, technology and private
at Retsol. Jason has a wealth of knowledge and senior experience
equity spheres. He founded
in the retail sector with Mass discounters at the Game Stores Head
Canway Home Furnishings, a
Office. As a Chartered Accountant (SA) he’s headed up many finance
mass market specialist furniture
divisions with the most notable being Africa Finance Division for Game Stores, where he was responsible for financial aspects of the Game outlets located outside of South Africa. As a leader of this division his main responsibility lay in the financial management of existing African outlets and setting up subsidiary companies for Retsol Stores in new countries. The rise of convenience retailing as a major component of all traditional retail is not new in developed countries in Europe and the Americas, but the same trend is now rolling out in developing countries like South Africa. More and more traditional FMCG retailers are converting to smaller formats and running longer hours to accommodate their customers and remain competitive in the retail market. However in the smaller retail formats, the importance of the fresh departments increases. Traditionally these departments are
38 | Endeavour Magazine
Endeavour Magazine | 39
RETSOL
bakery, butchery and deli. These departments differ
a pizza, a speciality bread loaf
from the standard FMCG goods as they have a higher
or a hamburger, the consumer
frequency of purchase, coupled with a higher margin.
demands to know what they are
This allows the retailers to maximise the return on
eating. Who made this product?
their trading space, so as the footprint of the outlet
Where were the ingredients
decreases, the importance of the fresh offering
sourced from? What is inside the
increases.
product? Having a strict sourcing
However it is the consumer that is driving
and manufacturing policy is not
the change and such it understands this changing
always enough. Corner Bakery
consumer need that is the key to Retsol’s success in
offer the consumer a range of
this fast paced and competitive market.
meal solutions that have not
Retsol have identified 2 key areas that are changing
been made in a faraway factory,
the consumer’s behaviour and shopping patterns:
but rather right there, where
1. Health and wellness trend
the consumer can see! All this
2. Changing consumer living patterns and buying
allows Corner Bakery to offer
behaviour
a “FRESH” department to the
The first is not a new concept, but is fundamental
forecourt space, something that
to the strategic objectives for Retsol. The Health and
in the past consumers were only
Wellness trend, according to Retsol, is not limited to
able to find in larger formal retail
salads and organic foods. This has extended to all food
outlets.
consumption, with consumers demanding trustworthy and transparent products. Whether it is a sandwich,
40 | Endeavour Magazine
In addition to the demands of
fresh,
trustworthy
food,
consumers have and are changing
across all franchisees and staff
their living patterns and so
members. Retsol Stores has
their purchasing behaviour. The
identified an innovative and
concept of the monthly shop is
effective way to guarantee that
fast becoming extinct, while even
the franchisors and their staff
the weekly grocery shop is losing
on the ground receive standard
favour. Consumer’s lives are fast
and effective training on the
paced with massive demands
Corner Bakery operating system
on their ‘free’ time. With little
through an interactive online
time to enjoy life, consumers
system. The on-line classroom,
are demanding more convenient
which is an eLearning system,
retail solutions and that extends
forms an integral part of the
into
training required by the Corner
their
meal
solutions.
Consumers are choosing to
Bakery
shop-on-the-go, preferring to
Retsol to consistently up skill
graze rather than stockpile. This
employees across the continent
results in them demanding more
in a consistent, focused and
ready-made easier to eat food,
controlled
but not sacrificing on the health
have the ability to empower all
and wellness.
employees to take control of
By
ensuring
and
process.
enables
Retsol
both
their careers and provide them
these trends are analysed and
with a free, easy to use platform
incorporated into all strategic
to increase their skill set and
developments and plans, Retsol
opportunities within the group.
are effectively able to offer
This training does not replace
a
CONVENIENCE
current practical training, which
their
is handled by a team of Corner
FRESH
solution
to
that
staff
business
partners. Within
Bakery Coaches, but rather it petroleum
will enhance the current training
industry, Retsol firmly believes
the
methods; making sure that an
that consumer differentiation
individual’s skills and knowledge
can only be maximised by the
are scored and recorded on the
addition of a strong retail outlet
online modules.
to drive customers to the site.
The inclusion of eLearning
And a great fresh department
modules has become necessary
is integral in ensuring that the
for
entire retail offering is profitable.
because it enables easier access
You need to offer the consumer
to training for franchisees that
an integrated retail solution,
will now be empowered to learn
pairing their need for daily FMCG
the Corner Bakery operating
with key fresh departments. The
systems at their own pace
local fuel station needs to morph
and convenience. The online
from a petroleum outlet retailing
training modules are also better
some convenience products to a
positioned to enforce quality
convenience retail outlet, (with a
control
great fresh department) where
showing detailed processes and
you can purchase fuel.
interactive tests being part of the
At the core of every franchise business is the people and the ability to achieve consistency
the
package.
growing
with
video
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MOVIETOWNE 001868 687 21 01 WWW.MOVIETOWN.COM
42 | Endeavour Magazine
Entertainment REDEFINED WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS
The MovieTowne brand is a cultural icon in the Caribbean and its name has become synonymous with the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. So far ahead of its time is this venture and so fierce is the drive of its CEO and founder, Derek Chin that it is set to become the standard of entertainment in The West Indies.
Endeavour Magazine | 43
MOVIETOWNE
A lush landscape, tempered with a prominent grace and a rich cultural heritage Trinidad and Tobago has formed the epitome of a welcoming Caribbean paradise. In addition to its outstanding natural beauty, the archipelagic republic which lies off the coast of Venezuela in the Caribbean is one of the wealthiest countries in the region and on paper enjoys a per-capita income many times higher than a majority of the surrounding islands, not to mention the wider Latin American continent.
A
n
untouched
gem,
diversifying the national economy
Trinidad and Tobago
and ever increasing investment
enjoy an abundance of
from private enterprise, Trinidad
oil and gas reserves, a naturally
and Tobago is laying dominance
tropical
a
to its rightful place as the central
vibrant, life-loving people who
environment
and
tourist hotspot of the West
are making and have made
Indies. And much of the credit
significant strides to develop
for this must be given to one of
their nation to the point where
the most visionary and eccentric
the rest of the world are looking
businessmen to come from the
at this region of West Indies
islands, Derek Chin, founder of
as one of the fastest growing
MovieTowne.
economies. Via
a
Derek combination
of
government initiatives aimed at
44 | Endeavour Magazine
entrepreneur
Alexander
Chin,
extraordinaire,
enjoys an extremely dynamic
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boomerangcatererstt.com Endeavour Magazine | 45
MOVIETOWNE
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and illustrious career as the Chairman/CEO of MovieTowne (Multicinemas Trinidad Limited); Trinidad Commercial Development Company Limited; and Dachin Enterprises. As well as being a highly motivating force in business development he is also a keen intellect having attended Trinity College and St. Mary’s College. He then went on to the University of Western Ontario, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. After a period serving as the Senior Auditor with KPMG, Canada, he returned to Trinidad in 1981, where he pioneered the Video Arcade Gaming Industry.
MovieTowne MovieTowne is known as the premiere Cineplex, shopping and
Proudly supporting
Derek Chin and Movietowne,
wishing them continued success for the future.
entertainment brand of the region and since the opening of its flagship complex at Invaders Bay, Port-of-Spain in 2002, MovieTowne has successfully brought an authentic, high end silver screen experience to the Caribbean. It is no great surprise that MovieTowne has become synonymous with Trinidad and Tobago in the minds of all Caribbean islanders. “The cinematic industry in Trinidad and Tobago was on its knees
29 Borde Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies. Tel:(868) 627-7121, Fax:(868) 627-1035, Email:rington@tstt.net.tt
before MovieTowne came into being,” Derek explains, “People preferred DVD’s, VHS and Betamax at home to going to the cinema
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MOVIETOWNE
Service Xperts Limited, one of the larger well known HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) Companies in Trinidad, has been in existence for the past Twenty (20) years with over twenty-four (24) years work experience in the field. For the past Eighteen (18) years we have been incorporated under the Companies Ordinance. CH31, and NO.#1 on 11th October 1994. VAT Reg.#113020 as the name Service Xperts Ltd. Delivering years of reliable efficient cooling in the design, sales, installation service and repairs of top brand air conditioning systems for industrial, commercial and residential, we also do electrical and control wiring. Also we were one of the first companies to introduce pre-insulated kool duct ducting in the country. Service Xperts Limited intends to enhance their ability in this field in the near future by continually expanding our business internationally.
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and considering the conditions of the old auditoriums it is no surprise. There was little or no variety in choice, the bathroom facilities were deplorable and it was a dowdy and intimidating experience. Customer service was also far from polished.” MovieTowne’s emphasis on providing a flamboyant thematic cinema experience, state-of-the-art facilities, a wide selection of movies and exquisite customer service has quickly won over any sceptics who thought that this was perhaps an outlandish idea. But it is often the outlandish ideas that have the best drive. “MovieTowne changed all this,” he continues, “I wanted to bring the glitz and glamour of a Hollywood to movie fans here on the islands and give people a real experience. Also I wanted to introduce people to a far higher level of customer service than they were accustomed to. MovieTowne was ahead of its time and I believe we have really opened people’s eyes and changed their expectations.” Over the decade following this, MovieTowne has expanded considerably and alongside its flagship complex in Port-of-Spain which is comprised of a ten-screen multiplex cinema, 28 retail outlets, 8 kiosks, a PriceSmart US style shopping warehouse and exclusive hair salons, restaurants and cocktail bars, MovieTowne opened two
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www.cwinteriors.com 48 | Endeavour Magazine
Chauganas, and a four-screen multiplex cinema at Gulf City Mall in Tobago, also accompanied by a selection of shopping centres, entertainment facilities, and restaurants are now open for business. “Our Cineplex is themed along the lines of Hollywood with the latest being a back drop of Jurassic Park with all the dinosaurs as an attraction,” Derek describes, “Including various life size models of Batman, Chewbacca from Star Wars, the Joker, Gollum and Shrek. these are just a part of our growing museum of film characters.” The scale of MovieTowne’s success is such that the Trinidad and Tobago Newsday reported how MovieTowne has ‘contributed towards enhancing the social and national fabric’ of the country for a variety of different reasons. As it is, Derek Chin has become somewhat of a folk hero in Trinidad and Tobago, an icon for young business people to aspire to be like. “MovieTowne is more than a business; it is now a cultural, educational and charitable institution on the islands.”
Influence in other areas A serial entrepreneur, over the years Derek has been intrinsic in the creation of a number of business including a Telecom Security Services, one of Trinidad’s leading security firms, Sign Tech Limited – a
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Cor. Charlotte St. & Eastern Main Rd, St. Joseph. Tel\Fax: (868) 645-5408 / 6269 Email: porter@tstt.net.tt Endeavour Magazine | 49
MOVIETOWNE
Caribbean electronic sign innovator and the Ruby Tuesday, Wok Hay and Texas de Brazil local restaurant franchises. A keen horse racing enthusiast he is also responsible for the first Trinidad and Tobago online gambling system. But one of the key attributes to this man’s greatness is his continuous investment in people. “We promote and fund youth education through film,” he explains,
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“We founded the Secondary Schools Short Film competition which enables film students to not only get specialist support and tutoring but win scholarships into higher education courses and we engage in
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much charitable work while investing in communities.” Through access to its Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne has also provided
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a platform for many emerging artists to showcase and promote their talents, and for the last two years, MovieTowne has hosted the “Trinbago Kids Got Talent” competition.
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50 | Endeavour Magazine
09/05/2013 15:18
As a company driven to the sustainability and awareness of today’s lighting demands, we pride ourselves in developing and researching products from new manufacturers all over the world to meet these demands. After being in the lighting industry for the past 16 years, we are proud to be at the forefront of most commercial projects in Trinidad & Tobago and the Caribbean. We aim to facilitate all your lighting needs by supplying a wide variety of superior products and consulting in all areas of lighting - commercial, industrial & residential.
Going Green
As we look to the future, Nova Lighting has the technical training and manufacturers’ support to help design any project that wants to go green. We provide the latest technology such as LED’s, Solar Power and Controls that will contribute to your energy savings and make your project more sustainable! Some Of Our Projects • Movietowne • PCS Nitrogen • Hyatt Regency Hotel • Waterfront • Shorelands • The Falls at West Mall • Hilton Trinidad • Lowlands Mall, Tobago • Angostura Refinery • UWI Learning Complex • Republic Bank - Buccoo, Tobago • RBC Bank - London Street, Port of Spain • The National Cricket Ground - St. Lucia • Samaan Grove, Tobago • Airports Authority • Centre City Mall, Chaguanas.
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MOVIETOWNE
Through this competition children from different age categories have been able to showcase their talents to thousands of patrons and receive constructive feedback on how they can hone their talents from local professional artists. MovieTowne has also been a lead collaborator in promoting foreign cultures with film festivals and is involved in charitable activities. “MovieTowne has been a wonderful addition to the islands.”
New developments And the spread of success continues, as Derek relates, “In Guyana we are opening 6 screens to accommodate approximately 2000 patrons. HiloFoods is our anchor tenant with 55000sq ft super store but we have interest from other tenants such as Wendy’s and Ruby Tuesday, including a bank FCB, First branch in Guyana. Construction has started with the piling works. In San Fernando we are the anchor for the proposed c3 shopping mall, a project owned by the JT Allum and Carlton Mack family of South Trinidad. Movietowne South will be 92,000sq feet of cinema and retail space and is probably going to be the nicest Cineplex of the whole chain.” “Fitted with 8 state of the art cinemas, digital and Dolby surround Skittles Ad _M&D.pdf
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
MY
K
52 | Endeavour Magazine
1
08/05/2013
16:03
sound systems , 3D technology etc., thematic layouts and maybe even
a VIP section. “ Since its inception in 2002, MovieTowne has achieved consistent annual increases in attendance, which now total over 1 million patrons per year.
Its world-class entertainment experiences are borne
out of an attention to detail in executing its vision as well as a strict adherence to the highest standards of quality. And the brand goes way beyond designed ambience, offering luxurious surroundings and welcoming service – all at a cost that is still less expensive than that of any movie outing in North America, offering citizens great value as an entertainment choice. “The Guyana development was initiated through efforts of the Government of Guyana to get me to invest there, and a 5th complex in South Trinidad is now in the final stages of planning and due to commence construction later this year,” says Derek Chin, “The Streets of the World project at Invaders Bay just behind the Port of Spain
Our tiles and interior products adorn homes and commercial spaces across Trinidad and Tobago and the Southern Caribbean. Our attention to detail, individual attention, high quality and reasonable prices make us the preferred choice for Movietowne and for residential and commercial projects across the Caribbean.
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Movietowne is very important to me.” As one of Derek’s darling projects once completed this will change the attractiveness of Trinidad and Tobago making it a genuine tourist destination upon the same level as any found elsewhere.
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“Trinibagonians have a lot to be proud of and this venture will make Trinidad the gem of the Caribbean,” he concludes.
www.interiorharmonytrinidad.com
Endeavour Magazine | 53
NAKUMATT 00254 20 359 9991 WWW.NAKUMATT.NET
54 | Endeavour Magazine
BEDDING MASSIVE AFRICAN GROWTH WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
Kenya is in the middle of an exciting economic development, with massive industry expansion taking place across sectors and a significant and all-important economic growth of the middle class. Considered to be the financial, communication and transportation hub of Eastern and Central Africa it benefits from a positive GDP growth supported by a high level of computer literacy, especially among the youth. In an environment that is not only rapidly developing but is considered to be highly investment friendly one company has watched their country grow around them and has supported it with their own immense development. Jack Slater spoke with Business Development Director of Nakumatt Holdings Ltd, Mr. Neel Shah.
Endeavour Magazine | 55
NAKUMATT
What started as a standalone Nairobi shop in 1987, has grown to become the largest supermarket chain in east Africa. Over the past two decades Nakumatt has ridden a high wave of growth and opened over 40 outlets across the east African region.
“N
akumatt opened
to the country for the first time,
with systematic training at their in house training facilities, retraining
its
store
looking to set up home here can
and evaluation has created a sense of loyalty for Nakumatt that has
in 1996 and its
fifth
get everything they need to do
added significantly to the culture of the company. Comprehensive
tenth by 2003,” Neel reveals,
so. While we don’t stock food or
training is provided to each of the staff which is regularly and
“In 2008 the company ventured
produce for grocery shopping
studiously updated. A low turnover of staff is always impressive in any
outside Kenya into Rwanda
we have moved the focus away
retail environment.
and by 2009 it had opened its
from that. We started out selling
“All of our employees at various branches are east African,” explains
first branch in Uganda. In 2011,
mattresses and bedding and
Shah. “We firmly believe in empowerment of local communities and
we opened our first branch
have grown from there.”
people and as such employ locals.”
in Tanzania. At our current standing,
the
company
has
Focusing on the household goods,
including
electronics,
approximately 1.5 million sq ft of
furniture,
goods,
Seeing the value in local trade, Nakumatt is dedicated to supporting
selling space across our region.”
outdoor, leisure and lighting
local trade. At the moment 50 percent of all Nakumatt’s products are
A great deal of their success
has certain worked for them.
sourced locally and it’s looking to increase this percentage in the next
is attributed to their standing
From humble beginnings they
three years. Additionally, Nakumatt also utilises local distributors and
as a one-stop-shop, a location
now employ over five and half
importers.
where families can come for all of
thousand across their forty
the items they require for their
stores.
shopping. An ease of service, the availability of goods and the
kitchen
Importance of using local trade
The staffing is something of particular interest to Neel.
benefit of lower prices proves to
“Many of the employees from
be a valuable asset for the local
our original shop still work in the
home maker.
company today,” he says proudly,
“You can get everything you need from a Nakumatt store,” Neel tells us. “Someone coming 56 | Endeavour Magazine
“And are now branch managers and production managers.” Internal promotion, backed
“The importance of making use of local companies to support Nakumatt Holdings is that it spreads the strength of our product by spreading the wealth across our suppliers as well as increasing the relationship we share with them,” Neel explains, “Major companies such as ourselves have a responsibility to support local service providers.”
Customer loyalty should always be rewarded When Nakumatt re-activated its customer reward programme in 2011, they received high promising feedback and it’s subscribed
customer base jumped from 500,000 to 700,000 in under a year. Neel, along with the other board directors, chose to push the campaign even harder in 2012 with this has carried onwards into 2013 and it now stands at over 900,000 subscribers. “The customer reward programme contributes to approximately 75 percent of our total sales,” Neel says, “The loyalty is definitely there and we are looking to pursue this in the future.”
Safe Investment And Expansion At the start of 2013 they launched their Private Label Programme across 12 categories with highly positive results but the main focus is on the expansion of the stores. “Expansion is the plan and within 3 years we want to double our footprint of established stores and double our turnover,” he predicts, “We have already identified our locations and are looking to open ten new stores per year.” In such a thriving and fast growing economy the strategy is clearly to get ahead on the competition from foreign countries and brands that will soon be looking to cross borders. In establishing such a presence not only in terms of square meters but also in the minds of the Kenyan population and the vast number of their customers they have safeguarded a hardened loyalty. “Kenya is after all an exciting place to be,” Mr. Neel Shah concludes.
EAGM regional offices and showroom have now moved to their newly created state of art Corporate Centre at Tea House in Mombasa. Our new premises is conveniently located in Mombasa City Centre with easy accessibility, adequate private parking facilities and security. The Corporate Centre boasts a large modern showroom facility and will be the centre for EAGM Group’s regional presence.
info@eagm.com | www.eagm.com Everyday, a billion meals are enjoyed using our products
Endeavour Magazine | 57
G4S UAE 00971 4 3815 800 WWW.G4S.AE
58 | Endeavour Magazine
Security is a very topical word at the moment. As we all ride the waves of social and economic changes, security is something that we all deeply desire. Fortunately for those linked with this giant of the security world G4S has that well in hand.
SECURITY
ON THE JOB, FOR THE JOB AND IN THE JOB WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
Endeavour Magazine | 59
G4S UAE
G4S UAE is the largest and fastest growing total security solutions provider. This rapidly growing list of products and services, along with the company’s global backing, means that we are uniquely placed to provide quality security solutions throughout the United Arab Emirates.
T
he first security company in the UAE to start the detailed work
registered offices are based
to apply for, and achieve, accreditation to ISO 9001:2000,
in Berne, Switzerland and The
which involved the identification of all key processes and their
Ligue is now represented on all
documentation to form part of the Quality Manual and was awarded
continents and in 34 countries.
early March 2003.
As a mark of the high esteem in
One of their mandates states, “Our Quality Management System
which the Ligue is held world-
is based on functional responsibilities and objectives being clearly
wide it is represented in a
defined to support the fundamental management principal that it is
consultative capacity as a non-
the responsibility of every individual in the organisation to deliver
governmental organization at
quality service to our customers. We are committed to maintaining
the United Nations and the
the Quality Management System. The key strategic objective is to
European Common Market.
achieve continuous improvement and innovation in all aspects of our
Where they operate
business process.” G4S UAE is also a member of Ligue Internationale des Societes de Surveillance. The members of the ‘Ligue’ are the leading security companies of the world in an organisation founded in 1934. The
With the international reach and resources to meet the security needs of the global age G4S has held the position
“Our extensive experience and expertise of operating at events worldwide means we always take into account the bigger picture while understanding the complex interdependence of different parts.”
60 | Endeavour Magazine
A G4S enterprise, IBG was launched 18 years back to satisfy a basic uniform need for the security industry is now a global business and high quality garment manufacturer & uniform solution provider for 70 countries and cover more than 1 million work force with fully integrated supply chain solution and just in time delivery system. IBG has 1,500 skilled workers in India and Jordan ( > 50% women) producing over 8 million garments on state-of-the-art machines for Security officers, Service Staff, Corporate, Hospitality, Healthcare & special clothing like Fire Retardant, Hi-Visibility, Water proof etc. The company is amongst the first 1,000 in the world to have achieved the very exacting SA8000. IBG has distribution centers in South Africa, Canada, Netherlands, Malaysia.
Endeavour Magazine | 61
G4S UAE
as the world’s leading secure
As the largest security service provider in the Emirates, G4S
“At G4S, we believe that
outsourcing group for a long time,
operates from its 12 branch offices based in Abu Dhabi, Dubai,
such challenges provide the
with a speciality in outsourcing
Sharjah, Al Ain, Fujiarah, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman here alone they
opportunity to provide better
of business processes in sectors
employ in excess of 10,000 people.
and
where security and safety risks
Culture and values
experiences,” Alistair explains,
are considered a strategic threat.
more
secure
leisure
Drawing on more than 100 years of history, G4S is proud of its
“Our extensive experience and
They are also the largest
distinct culture and strong values that guide how their staff conduct
expertise of operating at events
employer quoted on the London
business and develop positive relationships with all their stakeholders
worldwide means we always take
Stock Exchange and have a
including customers, employees, investors and the communities in
into account the bigger picture
secondary stock exchange listing
which they work irrespective of where in the world.
while understanding the complex
in Copenhagen. With operations
These include, Customer focus, expertise, performance, quality of
in more than 125 countries
staff, integrity and teamwork. These are the hallmarks of one of the
they
most remarkable employers in this industry today.
employ
over
620,000
employees! “Whether you require a security solution in one location or across multiple continents,” Alistair Elder their commercial director
states,
“Our
global
experience is always on hand to bring you advantages.”
62 | Endeavour Magazine
Leisure & tourism Among a vast array of service areas that include corporate, government, retail and private security Leisure and Tourism is one of their main features. Aiming to creating a safe environment for recreation and exploration which is essential for the true enjoyment of leisure and recreation time. However, in a world of diverse and increasing risk, the creation and maintenance of such environments is a complex challenge.
interdependence
of
different
parts.” Indeed, for their clients, event organisers, governments and businesses, their solutions provide better security, reduced costs and increased revenuegenerating opportunities. And for their customers, that means improved experiences and the chance to enjoy their leisure and
recreation in safer and more secure environments.
G4S UAE partnership in sport Giving back is very important to G4S, and in addition to sport sponsorships they also encourage sport activities and competitions internally. Including Internal Sport Activities at their staff accommodations which include: The Ramadan Football Tournament held every year in David Village Staff accommodation; a Pool Tournament, where 20 players from across the company compete
BE ORIGINAL, BE HP
for a cash prize and a Weight Lifting Tournament first held in 2008 to encourage Security officers to improve and maintaining their fitness.
Supporting the community “As a truly global organisation, G4S UAE has the potential to
G4S-UAE and Supplies Store; working together to secure you the best solution
Supplies Store – making IT about you
create a real impact for the communities in which we operate,” Alistair tells us, “We therefore recognise our responsibility to our local communities and strive to be a good corporate citizen, forging community links at all levels of the business.” With a selection of charity events, additional sporting events and social activities G4S has taken on the mantle not only as a hero not
SUPPLIES STORE P.O. Box 37936, Dubai, UAE T: 800-SUPPLIES (78775437) F: +971 4 340 9974 W: www.suppliesstore.ae
only offering security but installing a far more fundamental sense of security within the hearts of their employees and the communities in which they work.
www.g4s.ae
“We recognise our responsibility to our local communities and strive to be a good corporate citizen, forging community links at all levels of the business” Endeavour Magazine | 63
SHUMBA COAL 00267 318 6072 WWW.SHUMBACOAL.COM
64 | Endeavour Magazine
POWERING FORWARD WRITTEN BY DJAMIL BENMEHIDI
It is a simple fact; energy is the key to economic growth and throughout much of the world, coal is still the only viable source of energy. A global backlash against nuclear energy in the wake of the Fukushima disaster in Japan, improvements in clean coal burning technologies and a crippling power deficit in the Southern African regions have opened up huge potential markets for Botswana’s considerable reserves of high-quality thermal coal. Shumba Coal - a private exploration company whose focus is the acquisition and development of highly prospective coal exploration licenses in Botswana – has a vision to become Botswana’s premier coal exploration, development and production company, without compromising on its dedication to the improvement of its country and its people; a vision that it is now tantalisingly close to realising. Mashale Phumaphi, Managing Director of Shumba Coal, spoke to Endeavour Magazine about the story of the business and its plans for the future.
Endeavour Magazine | 65
SHUMBA COAL
The sub-Saharan nation of Botswana - which lies just north of neighbouring South Africa and south-west of Zimbabwe - has come a very long way since its birth in 1966, following independence from Great Britain. Having started life as one of the poorest nations in Africa with a GDP per capita of $70, Botswana has embarked on a journey of economic transformation which has seen it develop into the politically stable and thriving middle-income country that it is today. And with the economy currently one of the fastest growing in the world, and with its small population of two million people benefiting from the fourth-largest gross national income in Africa and a GDP per capita of $14,000, on the surface Botswana looks well placed to take off over the coming years.
I
n reality though, Botswana’s
development, production and supply of thermal coal in Botswana.
continuous
digit
With it possessing a wide portfolio of coal exploration assets, local
economic growth faces a
knowledge and expertise Shumba Coal is very much at the forefront
double
major challenge as a result of a chronic power supply deficit
“We are the first private owned company within this field in
which now affects the entire
Botswana and we are strongly focused on the development of the
Southern
region,
country’s coal exploration and mining industry for the benefit of the
powerhouse
country and its people. Shumba Coal is a citizen-owned company with
economies such as South Africa
an extensive knowledge of local markets and culture which we believe
and Zimbabwe. With Botswana’s
gives us a strong competitive advantage.
including
African local
power supply-demand outlook indicating
that
for
resources, and are listed on both the Botswana and Mauritius Stock Exchange. Shumba Coal is in its infancy and we have just completed
2016 onwards, it has become
feasibility studies of sites and staff training. Botswana has the largest
a matter of great urgency for
undeveloped coal reserves in Africa and the power supply crisis that
Botswana
is affecting our local region is something we can help with. In global
to
demand
At present we have over $USD21.5 million in assets and
energy will exceed supply from
identify
new,
alternative power sources.
66 | Endeavour Magazine
of Botswana’s fledgling energy renaissance.
terms we are benefiting from a move away from nuclear power
Fortunately for Botswana,
stations by the energy industry after the Fukushima disaster in Japan,
the nation is home to an
and improved technology which has made it possible to build clean
estimated 200 billion tons of
coal burning power stations which produce next to no emissions.
coal and Shumba Coal has a
These emerging local and global markets mean there is real growth
remit to play a leading role in the
potential for a Botswana energy export industry.”
Mashale Phumaphi, Managing Director of Shumba Coal
Endeavour Magazine | 67
SHUMBA COAL
As Mashale suggested, Botswana’s large and considerable
shipping. Overcoming this issue is
development of the business
reserves of coal will be much sought after, in light of recent studies
something of a matter of urgency
over the coming years will
which indicate that global demand for high-quality thermal coal has
for the company, and as a result
be the development of the
increased greatly. The dynamic economic growth of the Asian region,
two consortiums have recently
company’s future mining assets,
especially China and India, means that there are very strong growth
tendered plans to construct
in particular Shumba’s Secheba
markets to exploit within these energy-hungry economies and it is
two separate railway lines -
Thermal Project. The first stage
this growing Asian market that Shumba Coal anticipates will drive
The Trans-Kalahari route shall
of this will see Shumba begin a
demand for coal over the coming decades. Closer to home, there
terminate at ports in Namibia
full Preliminary Feasibility Study
is also scope for Botswana to use its coal to generate power and
and the Ponto Techobanine
and full Environmental Impact
monetise its thermal coal resources in its own local area. As is the case
rail route will terminate at the
Assessment at the Secheba
in Botswana, neighbouring countries like South Africa, Zimbabwe,
Mozambique port. In addition
Thermal Project, following the
Namibia, Swaziland and Lesotho are all expected to reach the stage
to this, a further line to the Port
recent completion of a Positive
where demand for energy outstrips supply over the coming years
of Durban is anticipated. At
Scoping Study. This site is the
and though these markets are restricted by their smaller economies
present, significant engineering
company’s
and will be less lucrative then the Asian markets, they are also more
and financial hurdles remain
project to date, and with the two
accessible.
but Shumba Coal will have the
main coal seams holding reserves
However before Shumba Coal and Botswana can begin to take
capabilities to export thermal
of an estimated 1 billion tons of
advantage of these market opportunities, there is still much work
coal to every corner of the globe
JORC
to do to make the company fully operational. Firstly, the biggest
upon completion of construction
coal, it is considered imperative
challenge that Botswana has in relation to exporting coal is the lack
work.
by the business to develop the
of a suitable rail network to facilitate movement of coal to port for
68 | Endeavour Magazine
Another crucial step in the
most
compliant
advanced
high-quality
area so that it is ready for mining
100 95
by 2015/ 2016. Secheba Thermal Project’s close proximity to75existing infrastructure such as the Francistown highway and a main rail link between Zimbabwe and South Africa will give Shumba access to these markets, as well as other energy hungry local markets in 25 Zambia, Angola and Malawi; an important first step indeed for the business in realising its ambitious future goals.
5
0 “As the world’s power requirements continue to grow then the
demand for thermal coal in the medium to long term shall continue to increase as there is no immediate obvious substitution for coal based power. In relation to the current weak global economic market we strongly believe that in the medium to long term the global economy 100 shall recover and that the growing middle class in the developing 95
markets of the world shall continue to have a ferocious appetite for 75 good, power. As a result we believe that our 5 year prospects are very
particularly considering that there could be a significant expansion of Botswana’s Coal industry. 25 I would like to say that Botswana has successfully retained its
image as a politically stable investment destination over the last few
Marsh’s global industry practices and risk specialities ensure our clients receive the BEST SOLUTIONS tailored to their particular needs, helping them MANAGE RISK FOR GROWTH.
5
decades and the time is very opportune for it to monetise its coal 0 resources given the regional power shortage and the increasing
global demand for thermal coal.”
A NEW PAN-AFRICAN LEADER Marsh Botswana Tel: +267 318 8000 www.marsh-africa.com
ShumbaCoal_Botswana_Apr2013 19 April 2013 02:42:27 PM
“In relation to the current weak global economic market we strongly believe that in the medium to long term the global economy shall recover and that the growing middle class in the developing markets of the world shall continue to have a ferocious appetite for power.”
Endeavour Magazine | 69
WORLD WAR Z By Max Brooks http://amzn.to/18du4tb
“T
wo hundred million zombies. Who can even visualize that type of number, let alone combat it? . . . For the first time in history, we faced an enemy that was actively
waging total war. They had no limits of endurance. They would never negotiate, never surrender. They would fight until the very end because, unlike us, every single one of them, every second of every day, was devoted to consuming all life on Earth.” —General Travis D’Ambrosia, Supreme Allied Commander, Europe
70 | Endeavour Magazine
schoolmate and neighbor, the young Truman Capote. Sound vaguely familiar? Lee went to college and focused on her studies which included English literature and writing. She was later accepted into law school, but left to pursue
WAYMAKER By Michael D Warden bit.ly/10NtYem
her writing. Lee arrived in New York City in 1949, aged 23. She struggled
for
several
years,
working as a ticket agent for
W
Eastern Airlines and for the ith the rediscovery
this coming apocalypse stands
fail—Sa’lei Lords of staggering
of the Book of
Gideon Dawning, a troubled
power,
Dei’lo, the lines of
loner who has been marked by
minions within the Deathland
war have been drawn across the
prophecy as the Waymaker for
Barrens. Yet an even greater
Inherited Lands. Behind their
the Pearl. His charge: to find a
danger lurks within the realms
fortified walls, the forces for
holy sentient orb of power that
Gideon cannot see…where a living
good and evil are massing for the
has been lost for over 2,000
evil plots to capture his very soul.
ultimate conflict, pitting the two
years, and bring it safely to
With all the perils that lie before
Languages of Power against one
Wordhaven. If he succeeds, he
him, Gideon is certain of only
another in open battle for the
may avert the war. But there are
this: He must go. For if he cannot
first time...At the focal point of
many who would see Gideon
retrieve the Pearl, no one will.
and
their
corrupted
British Overseas Air Corp. While in the city, Lee was reunited with old friend Truman Capote, one of the literary rising stars of the time. She
also
befriended
Broadway composer and lyricist Michael Brown and his wife, Joy. Having written several long stories, Harper Lee found an agent in November 1956. The following month at the Browns’ East
50th
townhouse,
she
received a gift of a year’s wages
TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD By Harper Lee amzn.to/153ncmj
from them with a note: “You have one year off from your job to write whatever you please. Merry Christmas.” She quit the
T
airline and devoted herself to
o be one of the compulsory reads for school children across
writing. Within a year, she had a
the world has to be one of the best situations for a writer to
first draft. She eventually showed
find themselves in. However, Harper Lee once got a year’s
the manuscript to Tay Hohoff, an
wages as a gift. She took time off to write To Kill a Mockingbird!
editor at J. B. Lippincott & Co..
Nelle Harper Lee was born in 1925. She was known as a loner
At this point, it still resembled
and an individualist who wasn’t worried about looks and fashion
a string of stories more than
like other girls. Nelle Harper Lee, the youngest of five children of
the novel Lee had intended.
Amasa Coleman Lee and Frances Cunningham Finch, was raised in
Under Hohoff’s guidance, two
Monroeville, Alabama. Nelle, her first name, was, her grandmother’s
and a half years of rewriting
name, spelled backwards.
followed. When the novel was
Her mother was a homemaker; her father, a former newspaper
finally ready, she opted to use
editor and proprietor, practiced law and served in the Alabama State
the name “Harper Lee”, rather
Legislature from 1926 to 1938. Before A.C. Lee became a title lawyer,
than be misidentified as “Nellie”.
he once defended two black men accused of murdering a white
Published July 11, 1960, To Kill
storekeeper. Both clients, a father and son, were hanged. As a child,
a Mockingbird was an immediate
Lee was a tomboy, a precocious reader, and best friends with her
bestseller. Endeavour Magazine | 71
SEMS EXPLORATION LIBERIA SEMS-EXPLORATION.COM 00231 622 22 69
72 | Endeavour Magazine
COMBINING A WORLDTITLE CLASS CONSULTANCY SUBTITLE SERVICE WITH TITTLE LOCAL VALUES WRITTEN BY DJAMIL BENMEHIDI
The Western region of Africa is witnessing a spectacular boom in the mining industry and both large players as well as more junior outfits are flocking to the area to explore. SEMS Exploration has developed a reputation as being the best in the business and as a result they enjoy an excellent relationship with global clients who have absolute faith in their expert consultancy services. Joe Collins, Country Manager of SEMS Exploration in Liberia spoke to Djamil Benmehidi about the company and its recent joint venture with the University of Liberia.
Endeavour Magazine | 73
SEMS EXPLORATION LIBERIA
The mining sector has seen meteoric growth over recent years in West Africa and SEMS Exploration has reaped the rewards in a similarly booming exploration industry. Since its birth back in 2002 as a one office outfit based in Accra, Ghana, comprised of a small team of exploration geologists, SEMS Exploration has grown rapidly and today boasts further offices in Ivory Coast, Mauritania, Burkina Faso and Liberia.
O
ffering a full turnkey exploration service to major
including gold, iron ore, manganese, bauxite and kaolin. All-in-all, with
industry players such as Anglogold Ashanti, Goldfields and
an ever growing portfolio of clients and reputation, times are good for
Newmont Mining to name but a few, SEMS Exploration
the company and its 120 or so staff.
offers technical consultancy which provides geological mapping and
However in spite of its success, SEMS Exploration has not
geophysical surveys, technical analysis, engineering services and
forgotten its local roots and as a result is fully committed to a policy
investment advice through the utilisation of their expert knowledge
of corporate-social responsibility which has seen the business
and understanding of the region. And it is this intimate knowledge of
invest resources in West African communities. In particular, SEMS
local geological, political and cultural issues, in addition to its world-
Exploration has recently embarked on a joint venture with the
class service which makes its clients choose SEMS Exploration over
Geology Department of the University of Liberia (UL) through
their often much larger industry rivals.
offering technical training in the use of its advanced software which
“We know the area very well and have maps which show the various minerals and their locations. With this knowledge we can advise our clients properly and remove much of the risk.
will enable students to combine data from geo-chemistry to geophysics and integrate them. “We have worked closely with the heads of department in geology and geo-engineering here at UL. Students will get the
“Exploration is an expensive business after all.”
relevant industry training that they need in the use of software
As the business has grown, so too has its area of expertise
here at UL and we will also be able to secondment them with other
and today SEMS Exploration works with a wide range of minerals
companies and clients so that they get real experience.
“There is real opportunity here in Liberia and there has been an influx of companies entering Liberia to explore mining opportunities.”
74 | Endeavour Magazine
Endeavour Magazine | 75
SEMS EXPLORATION LIBERIA
The syllabus covers various exercises involving grid patterns, use
It is anticipated that this
of GPS, carrying out correlations and the use of GIS software. The aim
endeavour
contribute
dedication to its home region of
is that when students complete the programme, we will enable them
towards the wider process of
West Africa. It is for this reason
to use their expertise to enter the mining sector here in Liberia. The
stimulating
rejuvenating
that many of the businesses staff
location of the Fendell campus where the course is taught is behind a
Liberia’s
economy,
are West African, supplemented
great deal of bush which will also give students a chance to train and
which is only just beginning to
by a small, specialist group of
practice.”
bear fruit again following the civil
expatriate staff who supply the
wars that ravaged the country
skills that the company is unable
until recently.
to source locally.
This US$1 million training project which will offer students the opportunity to gain direct, first-hand experience of using industry
will
Exploration’s strong ties and
and fledgling
standard SEMS Exploration’s MapInfo software in a professional
“I got my degree here in
environment is expected to give Liberians access to the many job
Liberia before the war began
staff
between
projects
opportunities being created as a result of the country’s booming
and then had the chance to get
West
African
countries
mining sector.
experience in Australia. I had
create a multilingual team, while
opportunities
“There is real opportunity here in Liberia and there has been an
that
SEMS Exploration rotates and to
Liberians
continual training on computer
influx of companies entering Liberia to explore mining opportunities.
do not have currently; this
software is also done in-house.
A mining conference highlighted the potential of this country and yet
programme will change that and
In addition to MapInfo, the
Liberians have so far been denied the chance to take new jobs that are
give Liberians the skills that are
company also uses Discover
being created,” Joe Collins said.
needed in the industry.”
and other packages for most
“Liberians currently lack the skills and expertise that are required
This programme of investing
GIS applications. Its Ghana and
by the mining industry and as a result, jobs that should be going to
in Liberia for the benefit of its
Burkina Faso offices are Pitney
them are instead going to foreign geologists.”
people is representative of SEMS
Bowes (the owners of MapInfo
76 | Endeavour Magazine
and Discover) accredited training centres where clients and SEMS staff attend Introductory and Advanced user courses. The company also places an emphasis on developing young talent
Power Generators, Lubricants/Oil Gas Home Appliances Telecommunications Building Material & Roofing: industrial commercial agricultural public buildings housing
as demonstrated by its partnership with the University of Liberia, and therefore works closely with other mining schools and universities in the West African region. With an abundance of high quality training courses in geology and mining engineering, SEMS Exploration is able to recruit technical staff straight out of university and are of the opinion that though these youngsters may have little experience, they make up for this in hunger. It is no surprise therefore that the company has very high staff retention rates, even though many of its competitors can offer higher salaries. Over the coming years, SEMS Exploration intends to continue expanding and investing in West Africa. Assuming that the region can maintain political stability, companies will increasingly invest in the area to take advantage of the many opportunities that are available and discover the vast mineral resources in West Africa. With its expert knowledge of the locality and a reputation for world class service that can be trusted, what is certain is that any growth in the mining industry will have SEMS Exploration as part of it.
Tel: + 231 6 511000 info@powerlib.com www.powerlib.com
SEGAL
Momo T Cyrus, General Manager
Since our Establishment in 2004, SEGAL has concentrated on building a national leadership brand in Security Guard Services and intelligence support services. In so doing we have built a truly innovative security service firm that delivers best practices and value to its clients. Additionally we have the reputation for integrity, quality and excellence in the delivery of security and guard services. Today SEGAL has been repositioned from a physical or manned security company with one Hundred and fifty security Guards, to an integrated security intelligence niche comprising over One thousand two hundred
SEGAL
security officers. We provide security guard services, asset
SECURITY EXPERT GUARD AGENCY OF LIBIA 10th Street, Monrovia, Liberia • Email: segal_2006@yahoo.com Tel: 0880802700 • 0880802701 • 0880802703
protection, threat assessment, executive and VIP protection, Security Chauffeurs, awareness support services and security training and consultancy. Endeavour Magazine | 77
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