EME Outlook - Issue 24

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EME

ISSUE 24

Ford is applying global experiences and expertise on a local level in Romania, via a host of market-leading products and CSR initiatives

FIFA WORLD CUP 10 Spain, Germany, France and Belgium lead the regional charge in Russia

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE 22 Slovenia: Where the Alps meet the Med

MINAFIN/MINAKEM 68 Challenging chemistry in pharmaceutical manufacturing

PORT OF TALLINN 74 Pioneering innovators across the logistics chain

ALSO FEATURING: T O R K | P O R T O F N A M U R | P R I E D E M A N N F A C A D E E X P E R T S

Business Travel Guides

A complete guide to EME’s leading business travel destinations

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SLOVENIA As the only country in the world with ‘love’ in its name, Slovenia is looking to demonstrate much of it across the nation’s sustainable, personable evolution Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Joe Palliser s an increasingly effective exponent of the growing ‘city break’ generation in Europe, Slovenia has well and truly emerged on the global map from a tourism perspective in recent years. And quickly following has been an equally concerted increase in influence across MICE activities and the country’s economic makeup.

Where the Alps meet the Mediterranean, you need only to participate in a quick image search online to realise what you’ve already been missing. Put plainly, the country

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is stunning, from the lowest gorge and lake, to the highest mountain peak. And everything in between is geared towards capitalising on this natural beauty to make the country a sustainable and attractive proposition to tourists and business travellers alike in the years to come. “[Slovenia is] a country that is fast becoming a top green destination with the alpine landscapes, and an abundance of natural treasures adding to the country’s rustic charm and rich cultural heritage,” a recent Slovenia Tourist Board statement affirmed, honing in on the country’s adoption of

green philosophies to drive its future development. “Slovenia is officially one of the greenest countries on the planet, leading the way in terms of sustainable tourism and the protection of natural heritage. This is also a country that embraces adventure and discovery in the natural world - from the mighty Julian Alps to the sparkling Mediterranean coastline.”

From the capital Ljubljana, to its second city, Maribor, or the spectacular region of Bled, Slovenia is now a firm fixture on any avid traveller’s bucket list, but much more than that, it is becoming a

lucrative hotbed for FDI and business relationships off the back of the country’s modern outlook.

Mladen Ljubisic, Head of the Slovenian Tourist Board for the UK and Ireland says: “Thanks to its Central European position, Slovenia has historically and continues to develop as a business travel hub. There has been a general shift in the travel industry to value unique experiences and we have been recognised as a destination which offers just that.

“Slovenia is a boutique destination that offers an escape from the mass tourism influence. We are also blessed

with an abundance of geographical diversity. Slovenia is ideally located on the crossroads of four geographical phenomena. It’s where the Alps meet the Mediterranean, and the Panonnian

basin meets the Karst. In such a small area you have everything from the famous Julian Alps, to the picturesque venetian coastal town of Piran with its famous salt pans.”

FACTS & FIGURES

Capital city: Ljubljana Languages: Slovene Area: 20,273 square kilometres Population (2017 estimate): 2.066 million GDP (2018 estimate): $75.604 billion Currency: Euro (€) Time zone: UTC+1 Dialling code: +386 Internet TLD: .si Climate: Continental/sub-Mediterranean

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22 See page

Our Business Travel section not only gives executives the complete guide to the world’s most popular and populous locations, but also gives said locations the perfect opportunity to showcase their own businesses, events, venues and services to a truly international audience and readership of more than 395,000 each month.

To share in this unrivalled exposure and to put your own offering on our map, then please contact our Sales Managers, Joe Palliser or Ryan Gray to find out more.

joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 676

ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 672

W E L C O M E A Social Focus

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Back in November, 2017 EME Outlook took great pride in profiling the UK operations of international automotive heavyweight, Ford. Six months on and we’ve been invited back into the manufacturing giant’s world, this time entering Romania, and the Company’s ground-breaking Craiova plant.

For the past 10 years, Ford Romania has evolved to become one of the Group’s most refined and fastest-growing operations, but its success hasn’t solely revolved around product sales and showroom footprints as you might expect. Rather, the Company has made its name in the country via a host of social enrichment initiatives that embrace not just the business’s manufacturing acumen, but its investment power across drivers including education, health, safety and skills upliftment.

Working in conjunction with numerous local institutions and associations, the global entity now has a very local feel about it, and with the help of former Ford Craiova Plant Director, John Oldham, EME Outlook looks to help the Company celebrate its 10-year anniversary in the country.

“Craiova is a world-class Ford plant, building world-class vehicles and engines.

And most important is that people who work here are world-class too, delivering market-leading technology products at a high-quality level; and I would just like to thank each and every one of them for all their hard work,” Oldham notes.

Our second port - or should I say ‘Ports’ - of call this month take us to Namur and Tallinn, and each’s role as a gateway to Southern Belgium and Estonia’s capital, respectively.

The latter in particular has a history that goes back thousands of years in facilitating cargo and passenger influxes to the country, but is focusing more on futuristic approaches in the present day. The optimisation of advanced technologies, as well as concerted expansion plans continue to place Estonia as a key European crossroads for trade and tourism.

Stepping away from business briefly, one of the summer’s key talking points across both Europe and the Middle East will be the imminent FIFA World Cup in Russia. Jumping on any excuse to discuss one of the world’s biggest sporting spectacles, I analyse each of EME’s prospects in the build-up to the tournament.

ISSUE 24

FIFA WORLD CUP 00 Spain, Germany, France and Belgium lead the regional charge in Russia

EME

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE 00 Slovenia: Where the Alps meet the Med

MINAFIN/MINAKEM 00 Challenging chemistry in pharmaceutical manufacturing

PORT OF TALLINN 00 Pioneering innovators across the logistics chain

ALSO FEATURING: T O R K | P O R T O F N A M U R | P R I E D E M A N N F A C A D E E X P E R T S

EDITORIAL Editorial Director: Matthew Staff matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com Deputy Editor: Phoebe Calver phoebe.calver@outlookpublishing.com

PRODUCTION Production Manager: Daniel George daniel.george@outlookpublishing.com Art Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com Advert Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com IMAGES: www.thinkstockphotos.co.uk

BUSINESS Sales Director: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Operations Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com PROJECT DIRECTORS Joshua Mann joshua.mann@outlookpublishing.com Tom Cullum tom.cullum@outlookpublishing.com HEAD OF PROJECTS Kane Weller kane.weller@outlookpublishing.com TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com SALES MANAGERS Joe Palliser joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com Ryan Gray ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com PROJECT MANAGERS Callam Waller callam.waller@outlookpublishing.com Donovan Smith donovan.smith@outlookpublishing.com Josh Hyland josh.hyland@outlookpublishing.com Lewis Bush lewis.bush@outlookpublishing.com Richard Thomas richard.thomas@outlookpublishing.com Thomas Arnold thomas.arnold@outlookpublishing.com

ADMINISTRATION Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outlookpublishing.com Office & Finance Manager: Sophia Curran sophia.curran@outlookpublishing.com DIGITAL & IT: Hamit Saka HELPDESK: James Le-May

OUTLOOK PUBLISHING Managing Director: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com

CONTACT Europe & Middle East Outlook Woburn House, 84 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 4AB, United Kingdom Sales: +44 (0) 1603 959 652 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 959 655 SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0)1603 959 655 Email: matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com www.emeoutlookmag.com Follow us on Twitter - @EME_Outlook Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/emeoutlook

Matthew Staff Editorial Director, Outlook Publishing

Enjoy the issue!

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EME In this issue...

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SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

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PORT OF NAMUR

To Move Mountains Solutions adapted to your needs

MANUFACTURING

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FORD ROMANIA

A Social Focus Driving Romanian industry

CONSTRUCTION

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NEWS

All the latest stories from Europe and the Middle East

Dedication to Fine Chemistry Challenging chemistry in pharmaceutical manufacturing

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AVIATION

Redesigning Work Practice in Aviation Creating a better safety culture You’re Using This to Clean That?

Aviation efficiency begins with a wipe

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F O C U S

ENERGY AND UTILITIES Global Wind Day 2018 Discovering the power of wind energy

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

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SLOVENIA

Where the Alps meet the Med

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Will Europe Rule the World?

Spain, Germany, France and Belgium lead the regional charge at this summer’s World Cup

AVIATION

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SPORT

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Surpassing Expectations Building longstanding relationships in the architectural and construction industry

MINAFIN/MINAKEM

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S

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PRIEDEMANN FACADE EXPERTS

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VALUE ADDED OILFIELD SERVICES (VAOS) The Spirit of Partnership Engineering Solutions backed by professionalism

SHIPPING AND LOGISTICS

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PORT OF TALLINN

Estonia’s Gateway Pioneering innovators across the logistics chain

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F O C U S

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EURELECTRIC POWER SUMMIT 2018

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GLOBAL POWER & ENERGY EXHIBITION (GPEX) 2018

‘Watt’s next’ for Europe’s energy industry?

Spearheading a more sustainable, low-carbon and smart energy system

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ENERGY & UTILITIES

Europeans Scramble to Salvage Iran Deal after Trump Reneges Dismayed European allies sought to salvage the international nuclear pact with Iran after President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the landmark accord, while officials in Tehran poured scorn on the US leader.

“The deal is not dead. There’s an American withdrawal from the deal but the deal is still there,” French Foreign Minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian said.

Trump announced he would reimpose US economic sanctions on Iran to undermine what he called “a horrible one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made”.

The 2015 agreement, worked out by the US, five other world powers and Iran, lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear program. The pact was designed to

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prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb.

Trump complained that the deal, the signature foreign policy achievement of his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, did not address Iran’s ballistic missile program, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 or its role in conflicts in Yemen and Syria.

His decision raises the risk of deepening conflicts in the Middle East, puts the United States at odds with European diplomatic and business interests, and casts uncertainty over global oil supplies.

It could also strengthen the hand of hardliners at the expense of reformers in Iran’s political scene.

“The region deserves better than further destabilisation provoked by American withdrawal. So we want to adhere to it and see to it that Iran does

too, that Iran behaves with restraint,” he told French radio station RTL. The European Union said it would remain committed to the deal and would ensure sanctions on Iran remain lifted, as long as Tehran meets its commitments.

France and others were well aware that there were concerns about issues other than nuclear capability, but they too could be addressed without ditching the nuclear deal, Le Drian said.

The prospects of saving the deal depend on whether international companies are willing and able to still do business with Iran due to the U.S. sanctions.

In a harbinger of what could be in store, Trump’s new ambassador to Germany said German businesses should halt their activities in Iran immediately.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Trump’s decision was a mistake and that the US should not consider itself the world’s “economic policeman”.

European companies including carmaker PSA, plane manufacturer Airbus and Siemens said they were keeping a close watch on the situation.

GO TO WWW.EMEOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

EME ECONOMY

Schools and Water are Priorities as Saudi Launches Privatisation Plan School buildings and desalination facilities producing fresh water will feature in some of the first deals as Saudi Arabia transfers a quarter of its economy to private hands.

Turki A. Al Hokail, Chief Executive of the National Centre for Privatisation and Public-Private Partnerships, was speaking as the Government formally launched a vast privatisation program, focusing on 10 sectors of the economy.

Riyadh is working on new rules to attract foreign as well as local capital to the scheme and will address potential investors’ concern about their level of control over projects, including their ability to hire and fire workers, Hokail said.

“This is a big change in the economy as the Government is moving from

operating projects to monitoring and regulating them,” he added.

“Operations will be the job of the private sector.”

Riyadh announced recently that it aimed to generate 35 billion to 40 billion riyals ($9 billion to $11 billion) of non-oil state revenues from the privatisation program by 2020; part of a drive to cut Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil exports.

Some of the money is to come from asset sales in sectors such as education,

water, telecommunications and health care. Some of those sales could occur through initial public offers of shares, while others might be direct transfers.

The rest of the money would come from public-private partnerships (PPPs) deals in which private companies invest in infrastructure and are paid to operate it for a period, before eventually transferring it to the state.

industry by stock market investors, who had shied away from the struggling media category for much of the past decade due to a wave of piracy by users and major technology shifts.

During April and early May this year, streaming music subscription leader Spotify, held a record-setting public stock offering. France’s Vivendi, the owner of Universal Music Group, the world’s biggest music label, said last week it was mulling a stock market

listing of its wholly owned music unit.

Tencent Music Entertainment (TME), which attracts three-quarters of China’s booming music streaming market, has been reported by The Wall Street Journal to be eyeing a listing later in 2018. TME is controlled by internet giant Tencent.

Industry leaders say the growing adoption of paid music streaming services is enabling the market to reach new regions of the world while helping to wean a generation of music fans away from free or pirated music.

“We estimate that only half the world’s population lives in a thriving music environment and we want to bring the streaming revolution to all of it,” Stu Bergen, from Warner Music Group, told reporters in London.

TECHNOLOGY

Music Streaming Revenues Surge Online streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have become the recording industry’s single biggest revenue source, overtaking physical sales of CDs and digital downloads for the first time.

The rapid growth in streaming music services in recent years has led to a recovery in the fortunes of the global recorded music industry, which enjoyed its third year of positive revenue growth, according to a report by industry body IFPI. Improving finances have led to a tentative re-evaluation of the music

GO TO WWW.EMEOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

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MANUFACTURING

UK Developing Options for Satellite System to Rival EU’s Galileo Prime Minister, Theresa May, has asked experts to look into options for a British satellite navigation system, ready to rival the European Union’s Galileo project amid a row over attempts to restrict Britain’s access to sensitive information after Brexit.

Galileo, a 10 billion euro satellite program being developed by the EU as a rival to the US Global Positioning System, has emerged as a flashpoint in talks ahead of Britain’s exit from the bloc.

“The Prime Minister has tasked engineering and aerospace experts in the UK to develop options for a British global navigation satellite system,” May’s spokesman said.

The European Commission has started to exclude Britain and its companies from sensitive future work on Galileo ahead of the country’s exit from the EU in a year’s time, a move which Britain has said threatens security collaboration.

escalating Middle East conflicts, a crisis in Venezuela, and the supply cuts of Saudi Arabia and other producers as the main drivers.

“Rising tensions in the Middle East have likely played a role in oil price strength, but we believe a tight physical market is the key driver,” US Asian oil demand will hit a record in investment bank Jefferies said in a April, just as global crude values are note to clients. lifted to levels not seen in three years Trade data in Thomson Reuters

by Middle East supply risks and top Eikon shows seaborne imports of exporter Saudi Arabia withholding crude oil by Asia’s main buyers will output and noisily pushing for prices hit a record this month, a big portion at $80 to $100 per barrel. going to slake China’s voracious Most analysts have pointed to thirst.

OIL & GAS

Asian Oil Demand to Hit a Record High, while Watching the Middle East’s Market

T R AV E L

French Government Urges Air France to Pursue Reforms as Strikes Bite The French Finance Minister raised the pressure on Air France managers and unions to resolve a stand-off over wages, saying the Government would not ride to the carrier’s rescue as it grapples with worker strikes and a leadership vacuum.

Finance Minister, Bruno Le Maire urged the Company and workers to resume talks, delivering a blunt assessment of the airline’s future as he warned the state’s 14 percent Air France-KLM stake was no guarantee it would pick up the pieces.

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“If Air France does not make efforts to become more competitive, allowing this flagship to be at the same level at Lufthansa and other airline companies, Air France will disappear,” Le Maire told BFM television.

Rivals like British Airways and Lufthansa have already gone through painful restructurings to cope.

Air France-KLM, which reported widening losses in the first quarter even as profits at Dutch carrier KLM improved, has reined in growth expectations for 2018 after walkouts at the French airline.

GO TO WWW.EMEOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

EME TRAVEL

E C O N O M Y

Turkey’s Eastern Express puts Romance Back on Tracks

Is France’s Leader Rebooting the Economy?

French President, Emmanuel Macron, swept into office in May, 2017 on a pledge to create jobs and improve the lives of workers by rebooting the country’s economy.

A year on, annual economic growth has picked up - closing the gap with Germany and pulling away from other major European powers such as Britain and Italy. The pace of new business openings has increased sharply and improvements in the jobs market have left some employers warning about

T R AV E L

Qatar Airways Confirms Substantial Annual Loss Qatar Airways made a substantial loss in its last financial year because of a regional dispute that has banned the airline from four Arab countries, its Chief Executive commented without revealing the extent of the losses.

skilled workers being in short supply.

But economists say the rosier picture is due to stronger growth across Europe as well as policies put in place by Macron’s predecessor, Francois Hollande.

Qatar Airways has been blocked from flying to 18 cities in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt since June when those countries cut ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism.

“We have increased our operating costs, had to also take a hit on revenues so we don’t think that our results for the last financial year will be very good,” Chief Executive Akbar al-Baker told reporters at the Eurasia Airshow in Antalya, Turkey.

Emre proposed to his girlfriend in a candlelit wagon on the Eastern Express, a 1,000 kilometre (km) train ride across eastern Turkey. Until a few years ago taking the 24-hour train ride would have been considered madness, despite the ridiculously cheap price of 45 lira ($11).

Nowadays tickets for the train run out a day after they go on sale, even though the number of cars has more than doubled.

It passes through farmland, hills and woods, crossing rivers and passing through long dark tunnels carved through mountains.

The Eastern Express features seated and sleeping coaches with toilets, a mini refrigerator and a table.

F I N A N C E

Spain’s Banco Sabadell Fined by ECB Over Capital Buyback The European Central Bank has fined Spain’s Banco Sabadell 1.6 million euros for buying back some of its capital without the ECB’s permission.

“The penalty has been imposed in respect of the bank repurchasing its CET1 (Core Equity Tier 1) instruments from 1 January, 2014 to 7 November, 2016 without the prior permission of the banking supervision authority,” the ECB said. “This constitutes a continuous breach of own fund requirements in that period.”

Sabadell has challenged the fine before the Court of Justice of the European Union, the ECB added.

GO TO WWW.EMEOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

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WILL EUROPE RULE THE WORLD? On the eve of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, EME Outlook analyses the credentials of the European and Middle Eastern contingent Writer: Matthew Staff

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n 14 June, the biggest spectacle in sport will begin. The 21st edition of the FIFA World Cup will kick-off across 12 venues in 11 cities across Russia’s vast landscape, with 32 of the world’s finest football nations battling to claim one of the most renowned trophies in sport.

At no other time is the game so fairly represented on an intercontinental level, with the mighty South American nations of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Peru and Colombia joined by countries from Asia (South Korea, Japan); Africa (Senegal, Tunisia, Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt); North America (Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama) and even Oceania (Australia).

But what of Europe’s and the Middle East’s chances of lifting the FIFA World Cup Trophy on 15 July?

EME Outlook has taken a tour through this year’s Groups to plot a path for an EME victor in Russia.

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GROUP A RUSSIA The weight of expectation lingering over any host nation, in any sporting discipline, is tangible, but it’s fair to suggest that this pressure has been ramped up a notch when it comes to Russia.

As a proud sporting nation, anything short of knockout round football would be deemed a disaster; which is a concern given the lack of form and quality shown across the four years leading into this tournament. The group is favourable, but their prospects aren’t.

PREDICTION: Group Stages

SAUDI ARABIA While no country simply turns up for the experience, Saudi Arabia could be forgiven for accepting that their achievement was in making it to the tournament. Anything else would be a serious surprise, but an evenly matched group and a tantalising role in the World Cup’s opening match against a vulnerable Russia may be the catalyst for a Saudi shock.

PREDICTION: Group Stages

EGYPT URUGUAY

GROUP B PORTUGAL

SPAIN

MOROCCO

The reigning European champions come into the tournament with essentially the same prospects as they did in France in 2016: unlikely victors, driven by a man who simply refuses to lose. Cristiano Ronaldo will undoubtedly be one of the stars in Russia, but to drag his peers to a second major triumph in 2018 would require an even more superhuman effort.

Winners in 2010 (enveloped by European victories in 2008 and 2012), Spain’s era of dominance has come to a slight halt, or rather a slow-down, over the past four years, but there are signs that a second wind is imminent. No other country has such a clear identity and style in the modern international game and an early challenge in the form of Portugal could generate the spark required to go all the way again in 2018.

With both Spain and Portugal to contend with in Group B, any sort of progression into the knockout rounds would be a huge surprise. Instead, Iran’s 2018 headlines will derive from manager, Carlos Quieroz’s matchup with the latter, his home nation; and indeed, a chance to pick up a win against an evenly matched Morocco.

PREDICTION: Quarter Finals

PREDICTION: Winners

PREDICTION: Group Stages

IRAN

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GROUP C FRANCE Going into the tournament as favourites, if football was played on paper, few would argue with France’s credentials. Formidably strong in every area, the country feels a second World Cup victory is overdue. With this expectation comes a similar pressure to that seen in their home European Championships two years ago though, and the wounds from their final defeat against Portugal in 2016 will need to have healed if they are to realise their potential this summer.

PREDICTION: Quarter Finals

AUSTRALIA

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GROUP D ARGENTINA ICELAND In arguably one of the most competitive and unpredictable groups, World Cup debutants, Iceland will be a welcome edition to the headline stage. The people’s champions at Euro 2016, the country’s fans will no doubt steal the show once again in Russia and some tantalising fixtures against Nigeria, Argentina and old foes, Croatia will make for some exciting viewing. Qualifying may just be too much to ask for, so enjoy the ‘Viking thunder-claps’ while you can.

CROATIA Iceland’s fate may well come down to their match against the technically brilliant Croats. Having arguably underperformed in recent tournaments, their golden generation are hitting their peak at the moment, and should be focusing on how to steal top spot from Argentina, rather than how to avoid being upset by Iceland or Nigeria.

PREDICTION: Round of 16

NIGERIA

PREDICTION: Group Stages

PERU DENMARK

GROUP E

Qualifying via the playoffs, Denmark will be competing in the World Cup for the first time since 2010 in South Africa and will be confident of overcoming Australia and Peru to claim the second knockout round birth behind France. Underestimating either or both would be a huge mistake though, and the latter South Americans’ hunger to stay in a tournament they’ve not qualified for since 1982 may give them the psychological edge over the Scandinavians.

Not renowned for flamboyance, Switzerland’s solidity is hard to underestimate and an opening fixture against the Brazilians may well set the tone. A strong showing and even a hard-fought point will probably see them progress to the Round of 16. A convincing loss will leave them vulnerable to the tricky Serbians and Costa Ricans.

PREDICTION: Group Stages

PREDICTION: Round of 16

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BRAZIL SWITZERLAND

COSTA RICA SERBIA Much like Switzerland, Serbia’s prospects will depend on how they negotiate their opening game. A confidence-boosting win against Costa Rica will remove a lot of pressure from their second match against the Swiss, but anything less than that will probably end their tournament before it’s begun.

PREDICTION: Group Stages

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GROUP F GERMANY Anything other than a resounding group victory would be a massive shock for the metronomic Germans.

Their style and power make them arguably the least vulnerable team in the tournament and – as always – they will be many people’s picks for the title. The only argument against such an outcome comes not from the groups, but rather the potential knockout round route that awaits; with either Belgium or England, and then Spain awaiting them enroute to any desired Final.

PREDICTION: Semi Finals

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GROUP G BELGIUM No other country can claim to have hit a purple patch of developing world-class players like the Belgians in recent years. Their golden generation fell short at Euro 2016, but there really can’t be any excuses this time. With arguably the best defence in the tournament, strength and power throughout, and the flair of Eden Hazard and Dries Mertens in attack, anything less than a deep run into the tournament would be a massive disappointment to a country that doesn’t want to see this generation slip by empty handed.

PREDICTION: Semi Finals

MEXICO SWEDEN It’s a somewhat odd feeling heading into a World Cup without the prospect of Italy, and it is this brave Swedish side that are to blame for the anomaly. Their famous playoff victory showcased a psychological toughness that will need to be on full show once again in Russia, and they have every chance of overcoming Mexico and South Korea If they are able to reignite the same attitude.

PREDICTION: Round of 16

SOUTH KOREA

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PANAMA

TUNISIA ENGLAND One country that knows all about golden generations coming and going with no reward is England. The promise of the mid-2000s is but a memory, and in its place is a rather uncomfortable, grim ambivalence towards this upcoming trip to Russia. As always, qualification for the tournament was seamless, but with no knockout win to shout about since 2006, and a squad laden with youthful unpredictability, expectations have been dampened down among the few remaining Three Lions supporters. It’s down to the squad to reignite optimism of old.

PREDICTION: Quarter Finals

GROUP H POLAND Calling this group is an almost impossibility, and an analysis of Poland’s chances could pretty much be applied to any one of their group rivals, Senegal, Colombia or Japan.

Much like Switzerland though, the one attribute that plays into Poland’s hands is their sturdiness. That, and prolific, talismanic striker, Robin Lewandowski.

SENEGAL COLOMBIA JAPAN

PREDICTION: Round of 16

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PHOTO: BY BISER TODOROV - OWN WORK, CC BY 4.0,

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Redesigning Work Practice in Aviation usculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are a common and costly problem for companies. The Labour Force Survey (LFS) indicates MSD cases, including manual handling, account for more than a third of all work-related illnesses. Last year, 8.09 million working days were lost due to work-related MSDs; something for aviation safety managers to consider when managing risks for their employees.

Manual handling is a basic aspect of an aircraft engineer’s job, relating to lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing or pulling items and equipment. Despite it being a routine task, manual handling can create a risk of injury particularly if the equipment is heavy, is being moved across a great distance, or the engineer is carrying or moving items a number of times a day.

An awkward posture, twisting, bending or over-stretching during a menial manual handling task can also cause the engineer harm, leading to work-related MSDs. MSDs refers to any injury, damage or disorder of the joints or other tissues in the upper/lower limbs or the back, and can affect the neck, shoulders and upper (ULDS) and lower limbs (LLDs).

Stress on the body can cause a number of musculoskeletal illhealth risks for aircraft maintenance engineers. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), MSDs are responsible for 40 percent of all personal injury incidents at airports, including injuries caused by lifting and

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Stuart McOnie of British engineering company, Semmco sheds light on health & safety practices in aviation and the equipment on hand to mitigate such challenges Written by: Stuart McOnie, Managing Director, Semmco

Reducing risk

Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, as amended in 2002, employers are required to manage the risks to their employees, by considering: • Redesigning manual handling tasks to avoid moving the load, or automating or mechanising the process • Conducting sufficient assessment of the risk of injury from any hazardous manual handling operations that cannot be avoided • Reducing the risk of injury from manual handling operations so far as is reasonably practicable and where possible providing mechanical assistance

manoeuvring heavy equipment for engineering and maintenance staff.

Expert knowledge stresses the importance of employers implementing an ergonomic approach to manual handling, considering the nature of the task, the load and the working environment, and the demands on the worker. Redesigning work practices can help to arrest the development of serious injuries, reduce days lost due to work-related illness and save against expensive medical claims.

In order to gain the most from an ergonomic process it’s important for it to be an integrated practice woven throughout the company, not a one-off project. Training is vital to its success as employees will need to understand how and why MSD injuries occur, how to protect themselves from them and the changes that are necessary to support this.

Encouraging workers to take a break to do stretches throughout the day can help to relieve stress and fatigue. This will help to align the body, developing core strength which in turn will assist with lifting or moving heavy objects.

Remind workers on the appropriate way to lift and carry items - bending the legs, knees over the toes, do not twist and carry. Remember: the heavier the object, the greater the risk of injury. Also, providing aircraft engineers and maintenance staff with ergonomically-designed ground support equipment and access platforms will also support in the struggle against MSDs.

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Innovative British engineering company, Semmco, is committed to providing engineers with intelligently built equipment to keep them safe and help reduce strain and discomfort at work. Constructed from lightweight aluminium, Semmco products reduce the burden of heavy maintenance equipment and are easily manoeuvrable and height adjustable. Semmco access platforms also enable engineers to work

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in a sensible position close to the aircraft while carrying out maintenance, without the risk of damaging themselves or the aircraft.

There are proven benefits for companies that are conscious of the welfare of workers and protecting against MSD risks. For instance, a strong workplace ergonomic process improves productivity, service quality, employee engagement and creates a better safety culture.

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Employees notice when a company is putting forward its best efforts to ensure their comfort, health & safety, motivating them and improving morale.

Ultimately, a happy workforce is a productive workforce. Taking action by implementing preventative measures or providing workers with intelligent, ergonomically-designed equipment will help to prevent MSD injuries and is likely to be cost-effective, boosting your business’s bottom line.

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You’re using this TO CLEAN THAT? n January, 2018, the International Air Transport Association reported a 4.6 percent increase in global passenger traffic, compared to January, 2017. With expectations of rising passenger demand throughout 2018, MRO technicians can expect to be busier than ever.

Performance, quality and efficiency are top of the agenda for MRO production managers. An aircraft on the ground generates costs but an aircraft in the air creates revenue. They need to get the most out of highly skilled technicians, ensuring they are working efficiently and safely. Their objectives are to ensure processes work but without overloading technicians and causing shortcuts and mistakes that could risk human

Tork’s Assortment Manager, Anders Hellqvist analyses a second unforeseen challenge in the world of aviation, and cleans up any industry misconceptions Written by: Anders Hellqvist, Assortment Manager, Wiping & Cleaning, Tork

life. Production processes are labour intensive, with the complexity of work making it impossible to replace humans with machines. Many of the tasks can be repetitive, and the production team must have the right

tools to maximise efficiency while ensuring adherence to essential processes such as cleaning and maintenance.

Cleaning is a crucial part of the process. This includes general maintenance of engines and aircraft frames, sensitive tasks such as the cockpit or interiors and work on the fuel tanks. The equipment inside MRO hangers have a range of different surfaces, including composite, metal, and glass. Without suitable tools and equipment, such tasks can take longer than necessary.

Due to the poor performance of rags, the traditional cleaning method, technicians face lengthier manual work than required. This means workers need to focus too much time and effort on wiping and cleaning, instead of more value-adding tasks. As a result, services take too long, technicians face additional stress, and the quality of service can be compromised.

The implications of this are varied but include: • Loss of competitiveness due to slow processes • Difficulty taking on new, larger customers due to capacity constraints • Less flexibility in operations, with the inability to handle unexpected events • Undue strain on technicians due to rags requiring more time and physical effort • Potential service and security risks as a result of shortcuts and stress

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Cleaning in the correct way, is vital.

MRO work often requires use of solvents, and with only rags to use, technicians are potentially being exposed to higher levels of VOC emissions, a real health & safety concern for managers. Rags can be completely soaked in solvent chemicals that evaporate into the air, and they can also be left lying around the workplace which is unhygienic and unsafe.

Tork industrial wipes are the next generation of industrial cleaning tools.

They are engineered with the aviation industry in mind and are tested to

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cope with the world’s highest safety standards. Compared to rags, they make cleaning and wiping easier and more efficient. Or in other words: they save your high-skilled professionals valuable time; helping aircraft get back in the air faster without compromising on safety.

Industrial wipes are soft, flexible and excellent for cleaning oil and grease.

Individuals can work in a smarter and safer way, increasing worker satisfaction as the maintenance task can be completed more quickly, ultimately improving processes in the workplace. The wipes come with a system of dispensers that can be

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flexibly placed across workstations, ensuring the right tools are always in the right place, minimising time wasted walking across the hangar to collect or dispose of rags. Products within the range also meet stringent certifications for the aviation industry, including the Boeing Manufacturing Standard BMS 12-5G for wiping and cloths.

As the aviation industry gets busier, MRO production managers must ensure that fundamental processes such as cleaning are as efficient as possible. With Boeing listing the cost of a 747 at $402.9 million dollars, the need to make every penny count is paramount, right down to the grittiest of hygiene decisions.

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GLOBAL Wind Day 15 JUNE 2018

This year’s Global Wind Day is celebrating the impact of wind energy around the world Writer: Phoebe Calver

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n the present day we are living in a world of rapid transition, moving from an era of fossil fuel-based energy towards an increasingly decarbonised energy supply system.

The renewable-based electrification of transport, heating and cooling sectors - as well as industrial processes - looks set to revolutionise the world’s energy mix. Europe is recognisably the historical hub of wind energy, exporting wind energy knowhow and technology to the emerging markets across Africa, Asia and Latin America, with a pipeline of wind projects lined up in previously quiet regions.

An important aspect to note is

Giles Dickson, Chief Executive Officer, WindEurope

that energy transition is not about changing the energy mix, instead it is about transforming communities.

Giles Dickson, Chief Executive Officer of WindEurope explains: “Wind energy is good for the environment and the economy, bringing clean energy and jobs to local communities all over the world.”

The wind industry brings new jobs and investment to areas where traditional industries (shipbuilding, coal regions, etc.) have declined.

Households, as well as industrial and commercial energy consumers, all stand to benefit from embracing the clean power sourced from wind farms.

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Record-breaking industry

Last year demonstrated a 20 percent increase on 2016 in wind farm installations, with the onshore wind capacity growing by 12.5 gigawatt (GW) and offshore wind by 3.1 GW. Six of the EU member states also had a record year in new wind energy installations, with Germany at 6.6 GW, UK at 4.3 GW, France at 1.7 GW, Belgium at 476 megawatt (MW) and Croatia at 147 MW. Wind power was at 55 percent of all power capacity installations in 2017, and renewable energy as a whole accounted for almost all new EU power installations.

2017 proved to be a record year for new investments in future wind farms, with 11.5 GW of onshore and offshore projects reaching their final investment destination. The total value of these investments stands at €22.3 billion, which was down by 19 percent on the previous year. This is predominantly due to cost reductions in the wind industry supply chain, as well as increased competition in auctions which provides investors with more capacity for less cash.

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“2017 was a strong year for wind energy with a high number of new installations and wind accounting for 12 percent of Europe’s electricity” Dickson added: “2017 was a strong year for wind energy with a high number of new installations and wind accounting for 12 percent of Europe’s electricity. It’s further evidence that wind is mainstream and delivers bang for your buck. It’s cheap, increasingly stable, and industrial consumers are now turning to it as an energy source of choice. Governments have nothing to fear from being ambitious on wind energy and renewables more broadly.

“That it was a record year reflects the fact that lot of the new projects were ‘pushed through the gates’ to benefit from feed-in-tariffs and other old support schemes while they still applied. This was especially the case in Germany with its 5GW of new onshore facilities and was also true for the UK and France.

“And despite the strong figures the medium and longer-term outlook for wind is uncertain. The transition to auctions has been messier than we hoped. And crucially we lack clarity from many governments on their ambitions for renewables post-2020. Countries need to start clarifying how much wind energy they want to deploy in the future.

This will give visibility to the industry, allowing us to plan ahead and reduce costs.

“It’s now clear given the recent expansion of renewables and the rapidly falling costs that Europe can deliver on a 35 percent renewables target for 2030. A 35 percent target is not just affordable, it’s economically desirable and it’s what the European Parliament wants.”

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social, economic and environmental challenges.

“Wind power generates lots of clean energy, but it also generates some amazing images,” says Steve Sawyer, Secretary General of GWEC. “The powerful sweep and majesty of the turbines themselves, as well as the awesome panoramas from atop a nacelle, provides both inspiration and determination to fight for a clean energy future.”

Celebrating success

On 15 June, the worldwide Global Wind Day is an event that celebrates the success of wind energy, organised

by WindEurope and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC). The day also provides members of the public with the chance to participate in the wind energy success story, taking part in the annual photo competition.

The Global Wind Day photo competition offers major cash prizes to participants. The theme of the competition is WindVision, aiming to draw the attention of the public and policymakers to the power wind energy holds to alleviate many

EME Each of the following three photo categories comes with a prize of €1,000: Local impact: photos should show how wind energy has benefitted your community.

Boosting economies: photos should represent people working in the industry, factories or in wind installation.

Visionary wind: photos should show wind energy working in harmony with nature.

Dickson says: “The Global Wind Day photo competition is a great initiative to highlight how wind energy is providing people with a cleaner future, today.”

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S L O V E N I A

As the only country in the world with ‘love’ in its name, Slovenia is looking to demonstrate much of it across the nation’s sustainable, personable evolution Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Joe Palliser s an increasingly effective exponent of the growing ‘city break’ generation in Europe, Slovenia has well and truly emerged on the global map from a tourism perspective in recent years. And quickly following has been an equally concerted increase in influence across MICE activities and the country’s economic makeup.

Where the Alps meet the Mediterranean, you need only to participate in a quick image search online to realise what you’ve already been missing. Put plainly, the country

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is stunning, from the lowest gorge and lake, to the highest mountain peak. And everything in between is geared towards capitalising on this natural beauty to make the country a sustainable and attractive proposition to tourists and business travellers alike in the years to come. “[Slovenia is] a country that is fast becoming a top green destination with the alpine landscapes, and an abundance of natural treasures adding to the country’s rustic charm and rich cultural heritage,” a recent Slovenia Tourist Board statement affirmed, honing in on the country’s adoption of

green philosophies to drive its future development. “Slovenia is officially one of the greenest countries on the planet, leading the way in terms of sustainable tourism and the protection of natural heritage. This is also a country that embraces adventure and discovery in the natural world - from the mighty Julian Alps to the sparkling Mediterranean coastline.”

From the capital Ljubljana, to its second city, Maribor, or the spectacular region of Bled, Slovenia is now a firm fixture on any avid traveller’s bucket list, but much more than that, it is becoming a

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lucrative hotbed for FDI and business relationships off the back of the country’s modern outlook.

Mladen Ljubisic, Head of the Slovenian Tourist Board for the UK and Ireland says: “Thanks to its Central European position, Slovenia has historically and continues to develop as a business travel hub. There has been a general shift in the travel industry to value unique experiences and we have been recognised as a destination which offers just that.

“Slovenia is a boutique destination that offers an escape from the mass tourism influence. We are also blessed

with an abundance of geographical diversity. Slovenia is ideally located on the crossroads of four geographical phenomena. It’s where the Alps meet the Mediterranean, and the Panonnian

FACTS & FIGURES

basin meets the Karst. In such a small area you have everything from the famous Julian Alps, to the picturesque venetian coastal town of Piran with its famous salt pans.”

Capital city: Ljubljana Languages: Slovene Area: 20,273 square kilometres Population (2017 estimate): 2.066 million GDP (2018 estimate): $75.604 billion Currency: Euro (€) Time zone: UTC+1 Dialling code: +386 Internet TLD: .si Climate: Continental/sub-Mediterranean

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The Business End THE BLEND of business, nature and culture stands Slovenia in perfect stead in its quest to bring a more diverse and widespread range of visitors to its shores, without diluting any aspect of its indigenous appeal.

Regarding the latter, 2018 is actually Slovenia’s ‘Year of Culture’, as it looks to showcase the country’s numerous museums, galleries, architectural landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This year will also see the country celebrate World Bee Day in May, as a proud beekeeping nation; the 200th anniversary of the Postojna Caves, Europe’s most popular show cave; and The Julian Alps’ recognition by Lonely Planet as one of the top three regions to visit.

And among these quirks and spectacles sits a bedrock of business acumen that helps to make Slovenia a

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complete proposition.

“From the county’s capital of Ljubljana and the surrounding areas, to the alpine regions and the Mediterranean and Panamanian regions, Slovenia provides a vibrant mix of landscapes. Enjoy a conference by the sea and then head up to the Alps for the weekend,” urges the Tourist Board in reference to Slovenia’s MICE sector. “The country is a key crossroad to Southeast Europe making it one of the most desirable locations as a MICE destination.

“Slovenia is a safe, hospitable and friendly country offering numerous meeting and conference venues for events of every size up to 2,200 delegates. The locations are incredibly diverse, whether your preference is for the enchanting capital, Ljubljana, an alpine setting, the Adriatic coast, a health resort or one of the beautiful

historic towns or cities.”

Although Slovenia ranks among the smallest European countries, the Tourist Board goes on to emphasise that it is the nation’s close-knit feel and simultaneous diversity that gives it an advantage in this realm of business progression.

“Slovenia delights with its many faces,” it continues. “Here, various events and meetings can be organised in the Alps, the Mediterranean or the Kras, in spas, castles, on beautiful lakes and in busy urban centres.

“Slovenia’s fascinating natural and cultural heritage, broad selection of congress capacities and meeting venues, world-famous cuisine, outstanding wines, authenticity, pleasant climate, variety of experiences and - last but not least - the friendly and industrious people, make up the pillars of the Slovenia meetings programme.”

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Slovenia Tourism Board SLOVENIAN TOURISM in its current guise can be traced back to around 1991 upon the country gaining its independence. The initial vison was to strategically plan, communicate and promote Slovenia as a tourism destination to the world, amid challenges both domestically and on the neighbouring continent. Rather than competing against adjacent Italy and Austria though, Slovenia has looked to leverage such proximities to put it back on the map as a dynamic, evolving powerhouse.

Ljubisic affirms: “We have learned quite quickly that the only way forward is to adopt sustainable practices when it comes to growth and development in tourism. Slovenia is one of the most forested countries in the world, where forests cover two-thirds of the country’s landscape. For us there was only one way forward: to develop and adopt practices which would cause as little damage to the environment as possible. We have therefore committed to consistently educating and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

We believe in being as ‘green’ as possible. Everything we say and do reflects our love towards nature and practices to preserve it. We’ve developed a destination brand, ‘I feel sLOVEnia’, which is both green in colour as well as reflecting the ‘love’ we have towards nature. Slovenia is also the only country in the world with love in its name!

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EME: Taking a more general industry stance, how would you evaluate the tourism sector in Slovenia now compared to its condition when the Tourism Board began?

ML: The tourism sector in Slovenia has grown first and foremost with an amazing mindset of the people working in the tourism sector. It is fascinating to see how everyone adopted the idea of Slovenia being a boutique country offering a unique and authentic travel experience, that is based on adopting the belief of being very eco and environmentally friendly.

It fascinates me how everyone, from the smallest activity providers, have this genuine care for the travel industry and our guests; always looking to improve their customer service to ensure everyone really feels welcomed and loved in Slovenia.

EME: What are the core industry trends dictating the Tourism Board’s investments and initiatives at present?

ML: We have recently prepared a strategic plan for tourism development in Slovenia for the next five years. In essence it is to position ourselves as a boutique travel destination offering unique five-star travel experiences with a strong focus on sustainable practices and development. Our key goals and KPI’s are focused on: • Increasing the brand recognition and image as a tourist destination under the brand, I feel sLOVEnia • Sustainable growth and development with a focus on allyear-round arrivals • Geographical dispersity of tourism flow, to avoid mass tourism practices and the negative impact of tourism hotspots as to enhance the travel experience

Culture and nature intertwined

• To increase travel spending, by developing high-value tourism products and activities as well as to increase the average duration of stay • Focus on high-end and demanding visitors, seeking high quality, boutique and diverse travel experiences, peace and personal benefits EME: What is in store for Slovenia over the course of 2018 and beyond to continue the good work already commenced and to enhance its reputation as a tourism and business travel hub further in the future?

ML: The new strategy 2017-2021 will be to continue investment in tourism

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being organised every January and next scheduled for 23-24 January, 2019. It is organised by the Slovenian Convention Bureau and is an amazing trade event attracting more than 270 buyers, international and Slovenian, in one place for two days with amazing networking and business opportunities.

infrastructure and development over the course of the next four-five years.

Slovenia continues to attract big and respectful organisations such as the InterContinental Hotel group, which opened a five-star hotel in our capital city of Ljubljana in September, 2017.

More hotels are being refurbished to

EME: Looking forward, what progress and development would you hope and expect to be able to report back in the future, both in regard to the Slovenia Tourist Board as an entity, and to the business travel industry in Slovenia as a whole?

ML: We aim to achieve the ambitious high standards in 2018 and beyond, goals we have set up by 2021. Slovenia including Hoteli Bernardin. Hotel Jama will continue to position itself as a at Postojna Cave has undergone a boutique travel destination attracting huge renovation and is establishing customers who are after unique itself as a business travel hub for the and environmentally friendly travel region. The new Hotel Kanin is due experiences. We have been witnessing to open in the picturesque town of a big increase in MICE and business Bovec, located in the Julian Alps. travel arrivals over the past few years Maribor continues to shine as a cultural and it is crucial that we establish strong and gastronomy hub (it is home to the destination management practices as world’s oldest grape vine and was a EU to enhance the customer experience City of Culture in 2012). And another as well as protecting our environment must see MICE destination is Lake Bled for generations to come. We hope which provides one of Europe’s most to be an example to other tourist iconic images and hosts the world boards around the world, to recognise famous Bled Strategic Forum. the importance of protecting the The most recognised MICE event in environment, as well as developing Slovenia and the wider region though and implementing sustainable growth is an expo event called Conventa, and development practices.

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Out & About THE ALLURE of green space isn’t lost on any visitor, and it is on the side of nature that most people lean towards when looking for activities in the country.

Whether it’s a mountain, a gorge, a lake, a forest or a river, and whether you’re an adventurer, a hiker, a relaxer or a business professional; the end result is the same, as the Tourist Board explains: “Wherever you find yourself in Slovenia, you’re sure to experience a diversity of features and sights, feeling the essential touch of the people’s hospitality.

“The petite size of our country is also its great advantage, unique in its colourful diversity of experience where distances are tiny and everything is within reach.”

Ljubisic adds: “Visitors can explore underground caving systems such as the largest expo cave in the world, Postojna cave, as well as an abundance of thermal springs to enjoy one of our 14 certified spa resorts. Right in the middle of the country you have the cosmopolitan capital city of Ljubljana, a perfect city

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even more tantalising as Slovenia looks to mix its own unique style into influences that emanate from Italy, the East, and Central Europe.

“From Slovenia’s traditional delicacies to world-class restaurants and an events calendar packed with culinary delights… you need to make Slovenia the destination of choice for your next European food adventure,” the Tourist Board says. “Traditional break destination offering an abundance delicacies include Carnolian sausage of culture, activities and pleasant vibes, and zlikrofi dumplings with fresh located by the river Ljubljanica and seafood widely available in coastal protected by the castle on the hilltop. restaurants. Those with a sweet tooth Ljubljana is also a very popular travel should seek out local specialties such hub as wherever you decide to go in as potica nut roll or the decadent Slovenia, it is usually only an hour drive.” and multi-layered gibanica cake from Addressing the more logistical Slovenia’s easternmost province. aspects of your stay, the “And, with 2018 marking the first aforementioned Hoteli Bernardin World Bee Day, there’s never been a represents one of the most popular better time to experience Slovenia’s hospitality options in the country, as honey obsession. Even top chefs does Hit d.d; both capitalising on the including Ana Roš are using varieties natural aesthetics and values of the such as Kočevje forest & Karst honey country before adding in elements of and Slovenia’s sweetest town, five-star luxury.

Radovljica is the ideal spot for picking On the food front, options become up a honey biscuit.”

PARK POSTOJNSKA JAMA

Home of two world famous attractions

Predjama castle, the largest cave castle in the world

With its 24 km of underground passages and magnificent halls, Postojna Cave is one of the biggest and most impressive show caves in the world.

Unique underground train in Postojna Cave

Postojnska jama, Jamska cesta 28, Postojna, Slovenia www.postojnska-jama.eu

Nikola Jurišič, STO Maribor – the city of the World`s Oldest Vine

Maribor is the second city of Slovenia, but still a cosy and hospitable place, surrounded by natural beauties and a picturesque landscape that reaches all the way to city centre. The World`s Oldest Vine, outstanding winemakers and chefs, top-notch culture as well as recreation in the embrace of green forests and sunny wine hills are constant companions of cheerful hosts who will provide for genuine and quality experiences for their guests.

Explore a touristic pearl that hasn’t been discovered by the crowds yet!

VisitMaribor | www.visitmaribor.si

Klara Kukovec

Ivan Vinovrški

Gregor Muršec

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Outlook Recommends “Everything we say and do reflects our love towards nature and practices to preserve it.”

- Mladen Ljubisic, Head of the Slovenian Tourist Board for the UK and Ireland

HOSPITALITY

NATURE

FOOD & DRINK

Postojna Cave The Alpe Adria Trail Soča River Križna Cave Mlačca Gorge

Hisa Franko JB Restaurant Pri Lojzetu Villa Herberstein

Hit d.d.

Marketed as the ‘universe of fun’, Hit’s range of facilities including a hotel and casino, conference rooms, wellness and sport activities, restaurants and tour centres makes the provider a one-stop shop for people needing an initiation to Slovenian culture and entertainment.

Hoteli Bernardin

TOURISM BOARDS

SPORT & LEISURE

ART & CULTURE Božidar Jakac Art Museum 30

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Bled Tourist Board Pohorje Tourist Board

The Planica Zipline

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Welcome to Bled, the Alpine Pearl of Slovenia With over 1000 years of history, richness of nature, breath-taking views, many exceptional products put Bled high on the world map for business and leisure travel. Bled is ideal for a visitor seeking history or uncovering the local legends, or for the one seeking a tranquil sancturay amidst nature to find their inner zen. It’s also a hub for executive education and a cradle of many great world sports’ champions.

The Bled Convention Bureau offers impartial information for an event to be conducted with great success in Bled.

Bled Convention Bureau, Tourism Board Ljubljanska 27, 4260 Bled, Slovenia P: +386 (0) 4 578 0 300

www.bled.si

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Transport Links

A tourist boat on Ljubljana

Maribor

AS PART of the European Union and as a Schengen member, entry into the country from the majority of Europe is relatively seamless, although it is always worth doublechecking the exact rules, as some other EU members have not signed the Schengen treaty.

No matter where you’ve departed from though, you’re likely to enter Slovenia via Ljubljana Airport which

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connects the country to the majority of Europe on both sides of the continent.

Once in, the same plethora of options await you as they do in most of Europe’s traditional hubs. For shorter trips, inevitably taxis and buses will take the strain off getting by under your own steam. Trains will also achieve the same via a network that serves passengers across a reliable, nationwide network.

Given the diminutive size of the nation though, the best option may be to hire a car and take charge of your own exploration. With all main landmarks and business hubs less than two hours away from the meeting point of Ljubljana, there’s never a journey too far, too complicated or too dull not to engage ‘operation road trip’.

Landmark Attractions

Vintgar Gorge

“The 1.6 km long Vintgar gorge carves its way through the vertical rocks of the Hom and Boršt hills and is graced by the Radovna with its waterfalls, pools and rapids.

The educational trail leads you over wooden bridges and Žumr’s galleries, and ends with a bridge overlooking the mighty 13 m high Šum waterfall. The Vintgar gorge also includes two man-made sights.

The single-arch stone bridge of the Bohinj railway… and the… small Vintgar hydroelectric power plant under the Šum waterfall.” – Bled.si

Postojna Cave

“Beneath the Postojna Cave Park’s surface lies a wonderful subterranean world abundant with unusual sculptures and animals. And not far from the cave, above the surface, you can admire Predjama Castle and its surrounding area steeped in history.” – Postojnska Jama

Lake Bled/Bled Castle

“This Alpine lake with the only island in Slovenia has been a world-renowned paradise for centuries, impressing visitors with its natural beauty, wealth of legend, and special powers to restore well-being. Look out at the lake from a castle on a cliff and visit the island on a traditional “pletna” boat.” – Slovenia.info

Meetings in the Nature Unspoiled Nature • Brdo Congress Centre • Hotel Lipizzaner Horses • Golf • Superb Cuisine Brdo Estate, Predoslje 39, Kranj, Slovenia +386 4 260 1000 | sales@brdo.si | ww.brdo.com

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Reaching a combined audience of more than 395,000 people, EME Outlook covers a full range of industrial sectors: agriculture, construction, energy & utilities, finance, food & drink, healthcare, manufacturing, mining & resources, oil & gas, retail, shipping & logistics, technology and travel & tourism.

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FORD ROMANIA

Driving Romanian industry

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Focus

Ford is applying global experiences and expertise on a local level in Romania, via a host of market-leading products and corporate social responsibility initiatives Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Tom Arnold

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CUP FIFA WORLD France and Belgium 00

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ALSO FEATURING:

GUIDE 00 BUSINESS TRAVEL Med the Alps meet the Slovenia: Where

00 MINAFIN/MINAKEM in pharmaceutical

Challenging chemistry manufacturing

UR RT OF NAM TORK | PO

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PORT OF TALLINNacross the Pioneering innovators logistics chain

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PERTS FACADE EX IEDEMANN

+44 (0) 1603 959 650 ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com

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Ford is applying global experiences and expertise on a local level in Romania, via a host of market-leading products and corporate social responsibility initiatives Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Tom Arnold

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he name ‘Ford’ in the world of industry is synonymous with notions of manufacturing excellence, automotive pioneering and product quality. And while these concepts inevitably remain true throughout its Romanian operations, the name ‘Ford’ in this country also brings to mind far more all-encompassing, socially-driven connotations as well.

Set up in the Eastern European nation 11 years ago virtue of an acquisition from an American enterprise – subsequently inheriting the former Automobile Craiova plant – the evolution of Ford Romania ever since has been the perfect amalgamation of traditional Ford product successes, and more community and socially-charged initiatives.

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Ford of Romania is one of the most significant employers in the region of Craiova and at the end of the past year, the Company ran the largest recruiting campaign since its inception...

Focusing on the former, the rise of the Company has been unsurprisingly rapid and expansive, kickstarted initially in March, 2008 upon the plant takeover’s completion, and followed up by almost €1.5 billion worth of investments to transform the site into one of the most modern and advanced production facilities across the Group’s global portfolio.

“Vehicle production started in 2009 with the light commercial vehicle (LCV), Transit Connect, and continued in 2012 with the launch of the 1.0l EcoBoost engine, Ford’s multi-awarded engine as International Engine of the Year for four years in a row,” the Company adds. “Also, in 2012, Ford started the production of the multiactivity vehicle, B-MAX, the most innovative product in the segment.”

Due to market trends and the decline of the MPV segment, Ford

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nternational Alexander is celebrating 15 years of business and constant growth.

In 2017 – International Alexander was recognized as being “The most efficient Romanian carrier”, “Transport Company of The year”, “Financial Stability” and “Popularity Prize”. International Alexander achieved overall improvements in business performance and reached an upper stage of business maturity. We have constantly developed new service types by adding to own fleet transports - the freight forwarding services, warehousing, air and sea freight services and value added logistics services. Additionally, International Alexander extended its presence on new markets such as: Sebia, Hungary and Germany. Therefore, the investments are oriented toward the fleet improvement program and the acquisition of new specialized equipment (e.g., car carriers or trailers that can accommodate the multimodal shipments) but also toward the development of new logistics facilities on the lands that were bought in the past years (over 500.000 sqm of land are available in Arad, Timisoara, Bucharest, Sibiu and Sebes – in Romania).

In 2017 –we achieved sales revenue of 55 mil EUR and for 2018 we estimate that the sales revenue will rise to 68 mil EUR, based on the performance recorded in the first quarter.

“I do not believe that there is a key to success but what I noticed so far is that success lies in the ingredients you put together to achieve your goals and objectives: knowhow accumulated through constant study to gain insights, improved internal and external communication and the development of a unitary system of values and objectives.

The founder and the General Manager of the company is Mr. Simion Apreutese. He is the sole shareholder of International Alexander that implemented the proper strategies is order to put together a team of

professionals. He was also able to facilitate a stable and innovative work environment” , declared Loredana Dan – Europe Business Development Manager for International Alexander Holding. security, we were able to gain our customers and partners trust.

In essence, the difficult situations combined with outstanding results contributed to our overall success. In this dynamic and highly competitive industry, we also count on the visionary management team that is able to quickly adapt to new challenges and to assume a proactive attitude whenever required. The team at International Alexander is focused on providing our customers the most suitable solutions through process optimization initiatives and value-added services.

Since the foundation, the company was focused to get specialized in automotive industry, at the time having strong partnerships with the most important automotive cars producers and suppliers.

FORD is one of the strategic partners, defined by trust and professionalism, with projects developed together during the years of collaboration.

The constant annual growth of the sales revenue and profitability by double-digit percentage are directly proportional with the investment initiatives and with the increasing market demand. International Alexander is an independent logistics services integrator that managed to occupy a top position in the industry sector. As of now, we have over 900 employees and by the end of this year, we estimate that the number of employees will reach to 1000

Bosch Cluj, Romania intelligent mobility solutions

We create the technology behind the technology

www.bosch.ro Bosch Romania

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ceased manufacturing the BMAX in 2017, before replacing it late last year with the launch of the new EcoSport, Ford’s small SUV. Attracting initial investments of almost €200 million, this most recent unveiling not only added a further string to the Company’s already extensive bow, but reaffirmed the business’s flexibility in meeting customer preferences and keeping ahead of the industry curve; an attribute that has been every bit as successful in Romania as it has in existing international markets.

“Ford is one of the top-three selling imported car brands in Romania and has one of the best sales networks with more than 37 showrooms located around the entire country,” the Company continues. “Ford of Romania is one of the most significant employers in the region of Craiova and at the end of the past year, the Company ran the largest recruiting campaign since its inception in

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Romania, hiring more than 1,700 people.”

All told, Ford employs more than 4,500 people in the country, working closely with a national supplier network of more than 40 Romanianbased companies. Consequently embedding itself into the local fabric of Romania’s manufacturing domain, the Company is perfectly poised to capitalise on a successful first decade

The Ford vision is to become the world leader in automotive products and services

of doing business in the country.

Returning to Romania

While a physical impression on Romania can only be traced back to 2007 in the Ford history books, the wider relationship between company and country goes back a lot further.

As far back as 1928 in fact, the 1903-founded Ford Motor Company familiarised itself with the nation via a friendship between Henry Ford himself and the then Secretary of the Romanian Legation in Washington, Andrei Popovici.

“In 1931, Ford opened a sales firm in Romania, and a year later, in 1932, the Romanian Government communicated to the Ford subsidiary in England (which owned the Romanian firm) the availability to open an assembly line in Bucharest,” the Company recalls on its website. “As a result of this invitation, in 1935, Ford acquired land in the Floreasca district of Bucharest, where

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osch Romania is part of the Bosch Group, a leading global supplier of technology and services. The strategic objective of the Bosch Group is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Our products and services are designed to spark enthusiasm, improve quality of life, and help conserve natural resources. We want to deliver top quality and reliability. In short: we want to create technology that is “Invented for life.”

In 2013, Bosch set up an Automotive Electronics Plant and an Engineering Center in Cluj, the heart of Transylvania, in order to develop high quality products and innovative solutions for our international customers.

The expertise of our associates, the passion for technology, the enthusiastic and young spirit of Cluj and the close collaboration with the local universities are the main drivers for the success of Bosch Cluj.

The activity of the Bosch Engineering Centre focuses on areas such as automated driving, electric mobility, connected industry and local innovation.

The talented engineers from the centre develop, among others, software solutions and image processing algorithms for realtime detection of objects in different traffic situations, software solutions to ensure a high connectivity for electric vehicles as well as intelligent sensors for the industry and intelligent products.

In 2017, the Engineering Centre in Cluj developed a master programme “Advanced Electrical Systems and Structures” within the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca. The master’s degree programme represents an adequate framework for master’s degree specialisation studies in accordance with the

current requirements of power electronics and of electromechanical systems.

In Jucu, Cluj county, Bosch operates a production unit for electronic components for the automotive industry since 2013. The plant features also a Training Centre in the Bosch campus opened in 2017, and equipped with modern training rooms and workshops equipped with state-of-the-art tools for the training of high-school students in the dual educational system, but also for the continuous development of Bosch associates.

As part of its strong commitment to Romania, Bosch has extended its products portfolio and increased the professional development of their associates to reach the customer demands. In the Automotive Electronics Plant Bosch manufactures electronic control units for eBike powertrain and for driver assistance and safety electronics, which provide safety in traffic and increase driving convenience.

In order to increase competitiveness and make production more efficient, Bosch has implemented Industry 4.0 solutions at the automotive electronics plant in Cluj, such as the MES Manufacturing Execution System.

The close collaboration of the Engineering Centre and the Automotive Plant in Cluj ensure the power location in Romania, providing top quality of technology and services, Bosch innovation and reliability that will contribute to the worldwide competitiveness and success of Bosch, Invented for life.

T 0040 372 544 100 E contact@ro.bosch.com

www.bosch.ro

Partners, unlimited

VALUE IS CREATED VIA COOPERATION

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Henry Ford has transformed our way of life with practical and affordable cars. Thus, in more than a century of existence, its remarkable achievements have a special contour. During this century, which has experienced prosperity and difficulties, peace and war, Ford Motor Company has grown thanks to a man and his vision. Society always perpetuates the spirit of its founder through a way of thinking that is concerned with a better future sustained by the innovations made in both design, manufacturing and technology.

PHOTO: SNAPMEUP

it built a modern factory, equipped with the first operational line in Eastern Europe, and over 100 workers who could assemble annually 2,500 cars and trucks.”

Resultantly contributing to a significant period of industrial upskilling in the region, a plethora of young Romanian artisans were introduced to the world of high-profile automotive engineering for the first time; a social facilitation that has been loyally repaid over the past decade, but that was initially cut short at the time upon the beginning of the Second World War. “It was not until 1966 that the Ford Motor Company tried to return to Romania through its German subsidiary, sending a joint venture proposal to the Romanian government,” the Company picks up. “In the meantime, the Ford plant profile in Romania had been changed to automation, where Automatica was operating.

A 1924-1925 Ford Model T Roadster in Gedee Car Museum, Coimbatore, India

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“Ford Motor Company returned to Romania in 2007, this time not in Bucharest, but in Craiova, buying the majority stake in Automobile Craiova and taking over the Automobile Craiova plant in March, 2008. 74 years after the first Ford manufactured in Romania, in September, 2009, the first Ford Transit Connect came out of the Craiova production line, which was donated to the municipal hospital in Craiova.”

Work, commitment and dedication

Fast-forward 10 years on and the Company marked its decade anniversary at Craiova on 21 March, 2018, and thus celebrated the share purchase agreement for the Romanian facility that was signed back in 2008.

Originally committing to an initial investment of more than €675 million to transform the Craiova site into a state-of-the-art facility, this number has almost doubled in reality since then, making the site one of Ford’s most advanced on a global scale.

The aforementioned array of products soon began filing their way out of the production facilities and into the hands of an eager customer base.

And as demand has evidently grown, so too has Ford’s own infrastructure in the country. The introduction of the new EcoSport in particular led to an additional 1,800 people being employed; highlighting not only the support being received by the Romanian population, but the support that Ford is then giving back in terms of social opportunity.

“It took a lot of work, commitment and dedication from all our Craiova Ford team and I’m personally very happy to witness this great achievement of celebrating 10 years here in Craiova,” said John Oldham, former Ford Craiova Plant Director, in acknowledgement of the achievement.

“In these 10 years we’ve not only produced great engines and cars, but we’ve massively increased the

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t GEFCO, we always cared about delivering the best solutions and services to our valued customers.

Having this goal in mind, in the past two years, the Company searched to redefine itself and to share with each and every one of its partners a new identity based on GEFCO’s philosophy and vision: a trusted partner. Why are we different today? Because we created an innovative new culture called: “Infinite Proximity”. We aim to build longlasting relationships through cooperation, to earn trust and to create more value in the supply chain. This is how we became “Partners, unlimited!”. “Partners” describes the cooperative mindset in which GEFCO builds relationships with its ecosystem based on proximity and shared growths and “unlimited” means that we are continually pushing boundaries in terms of expertise, geographical scope, sustainable growth, creativity and innovation.

Our common success story begun more than 15 years ago, when GEFCO started providing Ford inbound and outbound flows management and aftermarket services covering Europe, Russia and South America.

In 2012 started the collaboration between Ford Romania and GEFCO Romania with inbound flows management services and continued in 2016 with finished vehicles transport and distribution solutions. To best serve the customer’s needs, a logistic dedicated team was created in Craiova, in the proximity of Ford plant, to take fast actions when needed and to continuously improve our performance.

Jérôme Chevrolet, Balkans Area Manager, General Manager for Romania and Bulgaria: “GEFCO Romania is proud to be a trusted

logistics partner in the region for Ford.

All our teams are committed to meeting our customers’ need for efficiency and they constantly prove their capabilities in supporting our customers as they grow, while working with them to tackle their long-term growth and profitability challenges.”

Last year Ford Romania reaffirmed the trust invested in us by granting GEFCO Romania new distribution flows for transporting the new EcoSport model. We operate Ford finished vehicles transports by train to Western European markets such as Germany, Italy and Benelux.

This new project became a reality due to an innovative solution provided by GEFCO Romania ordering in France new tailor-made wagons to match the new EcoSport model dimensions. The number of cars loaded on the platform has been also optimised and the flows of the customer were adapted to its production capacity.

Together we are also committed to sustaining the environment, by considering moving the freight, when it is possible, by rail instead of truck, lowering this way the greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing the number of trucks, we will improve the traffic safety and reduce the traffic congestions on the road.

Together we grow, we care, we share! We are Partners, unlimited!

T +40 (0) 21 300 88 86 E info.romania@gefco.net www.gefco.ro

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Ford Romania’s management team

number of our employees and we’ve almost doubled at the same time our investment in Romania.”

We are a globally Current daily production volumes based on available information within diverse family with local automotive associations - both in an inheritance we are powertrains and vehicles operations proud of, and a family have reached almost 1,300 engines that is passionately and 600 cars, in two shifts, which is dedicated to delivering a record result in the history of this manufacturing site. remarkable products “Craiova is a world-class Ford plant, and services building world-class vehicles and engines. And most important is that people who work here are worldclass too, delivering market-leading Director and President of the Ford of technology products at a high-quality Romania Board of Directors. level; and I would just like to thank each and every one of them for all their Now looking after all logistics and hard work,” Oldham added. transportation-related activities for Ford across the entire continent, the positive exposure directed towards A great team From 1 April, Oldham was appointed Romania’s rise to prominence is as Transportations Manager Europe, indicative of what he and the Company thus vacating his roles as Craiova Plant have achieved over the past 10 years.

Ford’s mission

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Ford EcoSport

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IMAS AUTOMATION SYSTEMS LIMITED IMAS the Automotive experts...

IM Automation Systems Limited have been privileged to become involved in Craiova enterprise since 2008 – IMAS is a dynamic and flexible company who have grown organically over 10 years with help from a highly skilled Craiova technical workforce.

We are privileged to supply world leading automotive manufacturers established in Craiova with bespoke engineering solutions. We incorporate best-in-class flexibility and cost/value advantages for our customers.

IM Automation Systems Limited is based in Essex, England and has worked in UK, Cologne, Valencia, Slovakia and South Africa.

“Craiova has been my home for the past four years and I have been very fortunate to have been working here and have such a great team,” Oldham says. “I’m very proud about our work together including the successful launch of the new EcoSport, and I’m fully convinced that our Romanian plant will continue playing a key role in Ford’s manufacturing footprint, delivering at the same time such outstanding products.”

With more than 37 years of experience in various manufacturing roles within Ford of Britain and Ford of Europe, Oldham has been based in Craiova for the past four years, starting in 2014 as Craiova Powertrains Manager; at the time replacing Ian Pearson.

Further managerial tweaks geared towards leveraging the improved and scaled-up structure of Ford Romania have seen Pearson now come back to Craiova as the new site Director and President of the Board of Directors; ironically filling the positions vacated

by Oldham.

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...I’m fully convinced that our Romanian plant will continue playing a key role in Ford’s manufacturing footprint, delivering at the same time such outstanding products

T +441277 653156 E office@imasautomation.co.uk

2 Laindon Road Billericay Essex CM12 9LD office@imasautomation.co.uk +441277 653156

“Individual Mechanical and Automated Solutions” CRAIOVA SEALER AUTOMATION – COSMETIC FLANGE AND UNDER-HOOD APPLICATION, NEW FOR 2018

COLOGNE PILOT PLANT PRE-TREAT AND PAINTING FACILITY 2017-18

• Craiova paintshop makes it’s initial move into automated sealer application by choosing IMAS as a first tier facility installation partner. With the goal to enhance quality, overcome ergonomic issues and save labour, a turn-key solution was developed to deliver a compact but easily maintainable automatic application cell.

• Challenges included preserving the current manual application workstations and therefore delivering a compact cell with minimum footprint but still allowing sufficient access to maintain a safe working area.

• Utilisation of one axis with two robots including dedicated application pistol, temperature conditioning, and precise camera based measuring system to deliver an accurate sealer application.

• State of the art design using CAD and enhanced robot simulation tools to ensure best in class application quality.

• Station Cycle time is 60 seconds in total including transport – measuring and application to at least two discrete areas with guaranteed accuracy and uptime of over 98.7 % • Enhanced modular build techniques using leading edge technology to ensure shortest possible installation time.

• IMAS was awarded the contract to provide a full turnkey painting solution for pilot build vehicles for Ford Motor Company in Cologne. The project has the flexibility to deliver up to 5 units per shift, from the smallest B-Car (Fiesta) up to Largest Van (Jumbo Transit).

• Design and build project in a working brownfield site required first rate safety management concept.

• Process to include cleaning and pre-treatment via heated spray degrease and phosphate coating with oven and double spray booth concept for paint application.

• Major civil works delivered to ensure low level ergonomic processes.

• Leading technology Air Exchange systems coupled with local extraction ensure environmental integrity is maintained within the building.

• Technical Fire Fighting System to meet enhanced Ford Motor Company requirements • Electrical and process controls • Conveyors, BIW Transport trollies, docking and handling stations • Training, Full Safety Buy Off and all relevant approvals including TUV.

• IMAS developed the first IR wax curing application within Ford Motor Company European operations.

• Primarily to reduce VOC’s by using zero emission wax technology.

• The challenge was to integrate into the existing application facility.

• Uptime 99% • 60 Seconds Cycle time / 60 jobs per hour • Material requirement for adequate curing required 60degs > 60 Seconds • Localised Heat application targeted only application areas to ensure optimum energy saving • Process required an innovative approach due to first high volume application • Solution delivered a footprint consisting of only one fifth of that required by a traditional convection oven and a cost reduction of at least 80% • Solution is provided by arrays of IR Lamps that are automatically indexed towards the specific areas of the car body requiring targeted heat.

• For enhanced corrosion prevention the installation includes body tilting station and post process fume extraction.

• Project was subject to our enhanced modular built technique which ensured the installation took place with no impact to production • Project duration 24 weeks

• As part of a new vehicle launch there was a requirement to prepare two-tone painted bodies at a volume of 16 JPH on a dedicated work area with 17 state of the work stations • The solution required a complete 1550m2 mezzanine floor to be designed and installed within a running manufacturing facility.

• The complexity and mass of the installation required full structural calculations, verified and certified by all relevant local authorities.

• As a result of the structural design significant strengthening of the building columns was also delivered.

• The design of the steelwork incorporated leading edge technology to allow installation around the existing plant and equipment.

• IMAS also designed, manufactured and supplied the body transport system, process decks, services and inspection lighting.

• A Turn Key project that included provision of new work deck ventilation system with new AHU • Full under deck fire suppression system completely calculated, designed and installed

by IMAS and gained all relevant approvals.

• State of the art transport system incorporated dual safety elevators and over 500 meters of belt driven roller bed conveyor and associated body transfers.

• IMAS delivered complete control solution including software, HMI installation, commissioning and support through to customer hand-over.

CRAIOVA AUTOMATED ZERO EMISSION WAX CURING PROCESS

CRAIOVA PAINT SHOP 2 TONE PREPARATION MEZZANINE 2017

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FORMEL D

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ormel D is a global service provider of the automotive industry, developing marketleading concepts as well as individual, scalable solutions along the entire automotive value chain – from the development to the production and up to the aftersales service.

As part of the wider Group, Formel D Romania was established in 2011 and offers the complete portfolio from product development to after sales services for the automotive industry.

The Company partners with Ford Craiova and its suppliers, with its own office in the Quality Centre Building inside the FORD Craiova plant.

The onsite services within the engine and assembly vehicle plant include: • Control & rework, including visual parts, engine valves, engine block, engine sensors, covers and wheels • Software Re-Flash: PCM, TCM and GPS modules

Pearson had previously been responsible for the production launch of the multi-awarded 1.0 l EcoBoost engine during his time as Craiova Powertrains Manager.

“I’m very excited to be back in Craiova and continue my journey in one of Ford’s most advanced manufacturing facilities,” he notes.

“It’s a great privilege for me and I look forward to continue working with our vehicle and powertrain teams offering the best driving experiences to all our customers across Europe.”

In addition to these changes, the Company has also recently announced that from 1 September, Jaime Ortiz-Canavate will be appointed as Manager of Powertrain Manufacturing Engineering for Ford of Europe and previously UK-based, Josephine Payne will fill Ortiz-Canavate’s previous role as Plant Manager for the Craiova engine plant.

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“Payne brings a wide breadth of experience to this role from her previous positions in Europe and the US in both powertrains operations and in powertrains manufacturing engineering,” the Company elaborated.

Corporate social responsibility

Such managerial changes and enhancements may seem like part and parcel of a Company as renowned and vast as Ford, but it alludes to a much more significant achievement in terms of the success that each individual has been able to generate in Romania.

As previously proved, this largely revolves around the products that continue to leave Craiova’s plants but also, as is the case throughout Ford’s global presence, it is down to the Company’s involvement in local community enrichment and via a substantial corporate social responsibility programme.

• Stop Ship Campaign: DV5 Engine software update, Craiova Plant & Italy compounds • 2017 launch support of the Eco Sport model, with 132 personnel involved including quality inspectors, drivers, mechanics and electrical personnel.

• Resident engineering: TRW, ITW, EATON, PASS, FLEXTRONICS, CSA, Sharp and Harman

Formel D Romania SRL | Member of the Formel D Group Str. Soseaua Alba Iulia, nr. 14, Et. 1, (Salzburg Center) RO-550018, Sibiu Romania T +40 351 466 381 M +40 733 680 601 F +40 351 466 383 E gheorghe.barbu@formeld.com info@formeld.com

www.formeld.com

THE DRIVING FORCE. Formel D is the driving force in the Automotive Service Industry.

We are the worldwide service provider that supports automotive manufacturers and suppliers in assuring the quality of their products and processes throughout the entire value chain. For critical processes associated with project start-ups, we provide resources and solutions as quickly as possible to rectify deficiencies in vehicles, components and processes.

With team spirit, professionalism and passion we develop individual, scalable solutions and market-leading concepts. With these attributes we help our customers get vehicles and components ready for the market and make sure that service processes are implemented and optimized. With consistent quality the world over.

Formel D Romania SRL | Member of the Formel D Group Str. Soseaua Alba Iulia, nr. 14, Et. 1, (Salzburg Center) RO-550018, Sibiu Romania T: +40 351 466 381 | M: +40 733 680 601 | F: +40 351 466 383 E: gheorghe.barbu@formeld.com | info@formeld.com

www.formeld.com

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Working very closely with central and local institutions, CSR has been a key method for Ford to ingratiate itself into the local makeup of Romania, encompassing not just internal employment opportunities and network building, but also external influences on areas of health, education, safety and equality.

“Improving lives of its community members has always been at the core of Ford’s actions in the region of Oltenia and throughout the years, Ford has been investing more than €500,000 in various community activities, focusing on those strategic priorities,” the Company affirms. “All investments made in Romania as part of the corporate social responsibility programmes are made through the Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Company, in partnership with various local NGOs.” Ford Fund was introduced to its Romanian operations in 2014 and was driven initially by the notion of safety

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“Conscious corporations understand that environmental and social aspects are aspects of the business. They realised that, ultimately, they can thrive only to the extent that the world they live in. This has always been our conviction of Ford. For us, the positive contribution to community life is a source of pride and a major factor in the success of our company. We aim to play an even more important role by participating in solving many of the discouraging problems faced by society. “ - Bill Ford, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Director, Ford Motor Company 2001 to 2006

and its Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) initiative.

The Company adds: “Observing the great impact of the Ford DSFL programme, Ford decided to go one step further and to shape a dedicated programme for younger people, targeting the right age group who do not possess a driving license (16-18

years old) and started to run a project in Romanian high schools as a way to reduce accident numbers on Romanian roads.

“Other important projects implemented by Ford in the region of Craiova would actually be linked to health. Here, the Company has been actively involved with the support

• Lear Corporation

It’s not just a seat.

It’s your personal docking station.

With our combined expertise in Seating, Software and Connectivity, Lear is leading the way in developing intelligent, integrated vehicle solutions that do more than meet the expectations of today’s consumer.

They drive them!

W W W. L E A R . C O M

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COBRA GROUP

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obra Group is a Spanish company with its headquarters located in Madrid. With more than 60 years of experience, the Group first appeared on the international stage in 1978 and is present in more than 200 branches in Spain and 20+ permanent locations worldwide, with a team of qualified personnel totalling nearly 20,000 strong.

Moncobra, a subsidiary of Cobra Group, is a contracting company specialising in installation and assembly works.

In partnership with Ford Motor Company since their formation more than three decades ago, and in Romania since 2011, the Company participates and supports in all important current and developed projects, including the Ford B-MAX project, all engine shop projects and the new EcoSport project, finalised at the beginning of 2018.

of the local NGOs in sponsoring the Craiova County Hospital with vital medical equipment needed in the neonatology department, but also in paediatric surgery and cardiology.

“Also, teams of volunteers from Ford Romania, together with doctors from Craiova hospitals, have been running for years a row of free community health campaigns such as “Listen to your Heart” which provides free cardiovascular screening campaigns within the poor communities in the Craiova countryside.”

More than 1,500 have benefitted from free cardiology checks so far, demonstrating the influence that Ford can have on a country far beyond the realms of industrial capability.

Tomorrow’s Ford engineers

Regarding the pillar of education, Ford works closely with authorities at local level, across all grades of schooling and university to enhance

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The Company has also participated and executed several localised Craiova projects from construction works to electrical and mechanical projects.

Since 2015, the Company has also supported annual scholarships for students... and is also running internship programmes within the vehicles and engines plant in Craiova, so that today’s students have a real chance of becoming tomorrow’s Ford engineers

T +40 372 938 728 E moncobra.csi@grupocobra.com

www.Moncobra.ro

T: +40 372 938 728 | F: +40 372 252 836 E: moncobra.csi@grupocobra.com www.Moncobra.ro

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ROCHLING AUTOMOTIVE

R

öchling Automotive, with more than 5,000 employees, is your partner for integrated system solutions in the areas of aerodynamics, powertrain and new mobility.

With 42 locations on four continents, we are positioned globally. Our engineers, located in four engineering centres globally, are working with almost all vehicle manufacturers solving the challenges of the automotive industry to reduce emissions, weight and fuel consumption.

We connect and combine competences to provide full service at the highest quality, locally and globally, for our customers, true to our motto “Boost your efficiency”.

T +49 6241 844-0 E info@roechling-automotive.de

Motivating tomorrow’s Ford engineers

www.roechling.com

the opportunities available to Craiova and Odobleja’s students. Investments in their hundreds of thousands of euros, equipping institutions with the most modern technologies and equipment, aligns itself to Ford’s own vision of modern progression, while also encouraging students to consider manufacturing as a possible career path.

“Ford Fund concentrates around the globe on encouraging young people to take an interest in science, technology, maths and engineering, and the €100,000 investment made in the Mechatronics Laboratory at the Odobleja High School is a perfect example of this,” the Company explains. “Ford Fund is thus focused on helping young people gain the necessary up-to-date skills to ensure a bright future.

“Since 2015, the Company has also supported annual scholarships for students at the Craiova University and also the Odobleja Mechatronics

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Centre, and is also running internship programmes within the vehicles and engines plant in Craiova, so that today’s students have a real chance of becoming tomorrow’s Ford engineers.”

Bringing Ford’s two areas of concentration back full circle has been an April, 2018 initiative which has seen three EcoSports donated to the Faculty of Mechanics, INCESA Research Institute and to Stefan Odobleja High School in Craiova to be used as teaching materials by pupils.

Included are two Titanium models and a Trend model, vehicles equipped with the multi-award-winning EcoBoost 1.0 litre engine produced in the Craiova factory.

It has already become a tradition for Ford Romania to donate cars and engines to the community in Craiova so that future engineers can gain a better knowledge of new available technologies, of latest generation vehicles, and of engines made by Ford.

INDUSTRIAS ALEGRE

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ndustrias Alegre, a 100 percent Valencian family-owned plastic injection Company has thrived since 1953 as a mould workshop that embraces high levels of engineering skills.

Serving customers across Europe, Mexico, Brazil and India, its role in supplying the automotive sector in particular has contributed to its prominent market standing; and few customers have played a bigger role in this development than Ford.

Working together since 1976, Industrias Alegre’s capabilities have gone on to evolve thanks to ground-breaking solutions such as the HybridBox and are now being targeted towards areas of advanced technologies, sector diversification and globalisation.

T +34 961 220 200

www.ialegre.com

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enjoy efficiency

AERODYNAMICS

POWERTRAIN

www.roechling.com

NEW MOBILITY

interior trim global full service supplier

Congratulations Ford Romania !!

INDUSTRIAS ALEGRE S.A. Pista de Silla Km.9 46470 ALBAL Valencia SPAIN

T 961 220 200

www.ialegre.com

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DUMAGAS For 20 years Dumagas has intelligently connected businesses across Europe.

A reorganisation and restructuring process took place in 2014 and together with support received from the shareholders and the expertise and motivation of its team allowed the Company to grow as an integrator of international transport solutions in Romania and Eastern European markets.

For the local Romanian domestic market, the Company offers a wide range of food logistics services and controlled temperature transport through its 100 double temp trailers fleet, central low temp warehouse in Craiova and cross-docking locations in Bucharest, Brasov, Cluj and Timisoara.

Working in conjunction with local education institutions

T 0040 251 339 431 E transport@dumagas.ro

www.dumagas.ro

The partnership with INCESA and the University of Craiova has already been in place for a number of years, a period in which several important projects for the development of the future specialists of the Romanian automotive industry have been carried out. Furthermore, since 2016, Ford has offered as many as 10 scholarships a year to students of the University of Craiova.

This has since been compounded by the aforementioned investments contributed towards the development of Stefan Odobleja High School.

“The donation made today shows once more Ford’s strong commitment to the community in Craiova, understanding both the opportunities which the future may bring to the young generation of pupils and students in Romania and the current funding challenges within the Romanian education system,” declared Ian Pearson, Plant Manager of Ford Craiova during the announcement.

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Ford B-max

A balanced work environment

Ian Pearson, Plant Manager of Ford Craiova

Ford’s investment in Romania and for Romania therefore goes beyond vehicle and engine manufacturing and instead encapsulates all that is necessary to become a locally successful enterprise.

And naturally, such values and philosophies are etched within the confines of Ford’s factories as well, as demonstratedby the zero work incidents achieved on site.

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Your partner for shipping merchandise anywhere around Europe transport@dumagas.ro www.dumagas.ro

Outlook Creative Services Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilising its extensive production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

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ATLAS COPCO ROMANIA Extensive industry experience For all your applications, you can rely on our tailored air solutions, that are now used by all the industry leaders: electric compressors for air and gas (oil-free and oil-injected), piston and centrifugal compressors, blowers, vacuum pumps, air and gas treatment, nitrogen and oxygen generators, as well as auxiliary services: service and rental. All our products meet your industry standards and regulations.

Highly efficient We provide you with compressors and air treatment solutions offering peace of mind. From concept to installation: we make the most efficient solution work for you.

Silicone free solutions for automated car paint lines Highest quality standards apply for compressed air used in spray paint applications. We develop solutions with all major players in the industry to avoid paint defects and optimise efficiency.

Lower cost for high quality instrument air

Additionally, “in a world of men and robots, women are highly appreciated within Ford of Romania” as further evidence of the Company’s commitment to equality and upliftment in the workplace.

“There are lots of key roles within the Company where women are in charge, not only of the non-production activities such as HR and finance, but also of the production side of the job,” the Company continues.

“This all ensures a very balanced work environment for all members of the teams among the plant and the Company will continue encouraging young female students at the University to take technical classes and to apply in engineering, mechatronics or other similar sciences in the future.”

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Future success

These more personable elements then translate into manufacturing and business success, and Ford Romania’s current production pace is at its highest ever level, reaching as many as 600 vehicles and 1,300 engines each day; virtue of the highly skilled artisans and state-of-the-art equipment that exist within the Company’s facilities.

“One of the main challenges of Ford’s activity in Romania is infrastructure though, and in this regard, Ford is in constant dialogue with the Romanian Government, namely surrounding projects which are important and support not only the present, but also the future success of the plant, given expected increasing volumes,” the Company

Because we can deliver compressors with matching air treatment solutions, we can reduce your operating cost. Our air treatment equipment is designed specifically to operate most efficiently with our compressors, optimally using their waste heat and avoiding air losses for regeneration.

Atlas Copco România SRL 135, Bucureşti-Ploieşti, 013686, Bucharest T +40 21 352 36 23 E office.ro@atlascopco.com www.facebook.com/atlascopcoromania

www.atlascopco.ro

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COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE COMPRESSOR SOLUTIONS The highest energy efficient solutions according to most stringent regulations.

WE MOVE YOUR BUSINESS With a consolidated experience in the transport sector and its large fleet, Arcese offers reliable transports services for all industrial sectors thanks to a flexible & multimodal European network.

arcese.com

Intelligent solutions for electrical installations and automation SERVICES: • EXECUTION OF ELECTRICAL WORKS • DESIGN AND ENGINEERING • MANUFACTURE ELECTRIC BOARDS • MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT SUPPLY

www.elprest.ro

CONTACT T: + 40251/ 412503; + 40251/417496; + 40372 733 185 F: + 40251/417496; + 40372 877 033 Administrative Department - elp@elprest.ro Technical Department - proiectare@elprest.ro Sales Department - vanzari@elprest.ro Purchase Department - aprovizionare@elprest.ro FORD Department - ford@elprest.ro

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YAZAKI

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ith local manufacturing in Ploiesti and Caracal and an on-site warehousing & sequencing centre, YAZAKI guarantees optimal logistics solutions and support for its customer Ford in Craiova.

The cooperation between Ford Romania and YAZAKI started in November, 2011 with the Ford B-Max. Since then, the productive collaboration has been characterised by a professional outlook, a close working joint approach and mutual trust.

A seamless and smooth plant start-up in 2011/2012, trouble-free model changes and stable delivery processes surpassed all customer expectations. The Company is looking forward to future projects as a build-to-print and full-service supplier for Ford Romania!

Fuelled by a passion to create great vehicles

T 0049 221 597990 E info@yazaki-europe.com

www.yazaki-europe.com

says. “In order to address this topic further, the Company has also hosted dedicated workshops in Craiova, with the participation of various, relevant Romanian authorities, including the Prime Minister and Minister of Transportation, but also other key investors within the automotive industry in Romania.

“Ford’s plans are to continue addressing this key important topic so as to reach a benefit for other key companies, but mostly for Romanians.”

And this is where the Company’s differentiator, and ambitions lie.

Ford is one of the world’s most revered and appealing employers and business operators, yet it applies this international acclaim to a local setting. And just like every other presence point of Ford’s, Romania has benefitted greatly.

Despite only manufacturing in the country for the past 10 years, the legacy goes back almost a century and the foundations have been laid for

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Ford Motor Company was built on the belief that freedom of movement drives human progress... it drives our commitment to become the world’s most trusted mobility company...

Steven Armstrong and Klaus Iohannis

even more concerted growth in the years to come.

“Ford Motor Company was built on the belief that freedom of movement drives human progress,” the Company concludes. “It’s a belief that has always fuelled our passion to create great cars and trucks. And today, it drives our commitment to become the world’s most trusted mobility company, designing smart vehicles for a smart world that help people move more safely, confidently and freely.”

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• Yazaki Systems Technologies GmbH

PAST – PRESENT – FUTURE – YAZAKI CONNECTS

As a loyal and reliable partner of FORD Romania, we would like to say thank you for the long-term trust and excellent co-operation.

YAZAKI is a market leader in automotive wiring harness systems and supplies for all major OEM’s with innovation solutions.

More than 285,000 committed and highly motivated employees work in 46 countries to contribute to YAZAKI’s global success.

YAZAKI connects its customers to the future – worldwide.

YAZAKI EUROPE LIMITED

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M I N A F I N / M I N A K E M

DEDICATION TO

FINE Chemistry The Minafin Group is renowned across the globe for its quality service, flexibility and innovation within the development and manufacture of fine chemicals Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Thomas Arnold tarting with a fundamental dedication to fine chemical development, the Minafin Group was established in 2004 with a small team of devoted individuals who have gone onto build a true success story in the industry.

Initially the Group set out to solely produce fine chemicals for the pharmaceutical market, however, over the years it has expanded its efforts into cosmetics and high-tech applications to meet the ever-changing requirements it is faced with.

“The industry has changed dramatically in the 15 years that we have been in operation,” explains Frederic Gauchet, the founder and Group President of Minafin. “Our customers are continuously varying, and we need to be adaptable to meet their needs as quickly as possible, while matching the evolution of our customer base.

“In order to meet these needs, we have upped the qualifications and competencies of people available to make the entire process a success; our people care intensely about their

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role within the Company, but also their impact of their work on the environment and the communities which host our facilities.”

With its current rate of expansion, Minafin places vast amounts of trust in its staff coming from all over the world to carry out the extensive developments it is involved in.

“Our customer base covers both global and international companies and therefore we are dedicated to the expansion of our global standing through the development of our worldwide company network,” continues Gauchet. “We will always find the best and most efficient outcome for our customers, which is achieved through our selection of complementary and synergetic business units within the Group.”

Group network

As part of the Minafin Group, Minakem operates as a contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO), comparable to top-class companies in delivering services to the industry across its three manufacturing sites.

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EURO-INDIA CHEMS

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URO-INDIA CHEMS Pvt. Ltd is an export house firm based in Mumbai, partnering with factories in India to provide pharma raw materials (API and intermediates) requirements worldwide.

The Company’s consistent and reliable performances has meant that European & Latin American firms have been in touch to take advantage of its extensive experience and expertise.

The Company is always looking to expand its businesses into new markets and will always be pleased to respond to any new enquiries.

For any requirements, do send the enquiry with full product name, CAS number and approximate quantity and the Company will be pleased to assist.

Minafin invests heavily in its facilities

T 0091-22-66923581 E svivti@gmail.com

www.euroindiachems.com

“We look specifically at servicing demand for high-potency active principles,” describes Thierry Van Nieuwenhove, Chief Executive Officer at Minakem. “Our three manufacturing sites specifically target these projects, with a launch facility that incorporates our excellent research and development (R&D) services to ensure we are able to successfully launch of the actives principles of branded drugs.

“We have also implemented solidform labs that allow bespoke design of the solid active principle and is currently providing us with a unique selling point for the pharma factories within the market, therefore we are able to deliver something that many other companies are unable to.”

Alongside its extensive R&D work, the Company is focusing on continuous improvement in order to make sure that customer requirements are always met through its pharmaceutical developments.

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As part of the Minafin Group we are able to leverage an extensive network of knowledge to our advantage, while also enjoying the synergy that we have built to ensure exceptional service, innovation and continuous improvement for our customers at all times

Van Nieuwenhove adds: “Minakem provides one of the largest and most profitable segments within the wider Group and looks set to continue on as a major growth point.

“As part of the Minafin Group we are able to leverage an extensive network of knowledge to our advantage, while also enjoying the synergy that we have built to ensure exceptional service, innovation and continuous improvement for our customers at all times.”

Product classification

More recently Minakem has been investing heavily in new pipelines in order to support market growth, something that has been occurring at a rapid rate for the past two years in particular.

“Some of our most recent investments have been put in place to ensure that we have cemented a capacity to cope with the future demand put upon us by our customers,”

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Euro - India Chems P R I V A T E

L I M I T E D

Minakem’s reputed and trusted partner for last 10+ years - Specialising in Pharma Intermediates & catalyst raw materials from India.

- Alibaba Gold supplier status for last 9 years

OUR SUCCESS LIES IN DETAILS: • Providing the best products that are desired by its customers • Close inspection of the raw materials used in the production of the ordered product • Regular process check-up of the supplier factories • Ensuring final product quality, supported by independent lab reports for defined standards and buyer specifications • Product purchases are paid for in advance and therefore ensure priority in delivery • Committing to perfect delivery and supply logistics, including packing standards and freight economics for its associate buyer’s needs The Company provides a consistent and reliable service in delivery and quality, ensuring it is recognised as an excellent supplier in the industry.

T: 0091-22-66923581/0091-22-26374604 M: 0091-9833400658 E: svivti@gmail.com

Sister company of VeeVees Trade Impex

30 Avenue Mirabeau HEADQUARTERS: La Mède 13220 CHATEANEUF les MARTIGUES T: +33 4 4281 0872

www.euroindiachems.com

Bringing out the best in people... with an extra smile from within.

Our learning journeys create lasting behavioural change and amplify your people’s level of engagement.

krauthammer.com

Rue Gabriel PERI NORTH REGION: ZI La Samaritaine 59430 SAINT-POL-sur-MER T: +33 3 2861 7269

SCAFFOLDINGS INSULATION

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explains Van Nieuwenhove. “One of our developments has been on chromatography for specific purification of high potent pharmaceutical ingredients, using approximately nine million euros of investment to cover it.

“This is also aiding us in ramping up the bar in terms of product classification; where we originally only had the capacity to handle class five products suitable for most of the anticancer drugs, we are now pushing for class six in which you find cytotoxin-based drugs.”

At one of the Company’s sites based in Dunkirk it has added a new line of manufacturing, using multipurpose manufacturing capabilities has enabled it to see rapid development on projects thanks to the investment of more than 14.5 million euros.

“We also recognise the importance of pursuing analytical support and have subsequently been investing a lot of time and money in that area,” continues Van Nieuwenhove. “In

today’s market we have monitored our customers’ requests for the extension of support on the analytical side of our business, aiding them in fulfilling obligations with authorities in filing new drugs for commercialisation. We know that in a short space of time this will add significant value to both our portfolio and the ease with which our customers projects are carried out.”

Sourcing talent

When it comes to ensuring that the Company runs in a professional and unified manner, its people are one of

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the most important aspects.

“For us it starts with R&D, we aim to source the best talents while also finding those that will bring a unique perception to our business activities,” Van Nieuwenhove describes. “We focus on achieving a culturally diverse work place as a global entity, working on the continuation of establishing ourselves as a leader in the industry to aid us in attracting talent to our team.

“Recently we have been showing good progress in this area, while also increasing the available roles within our organisation. People want to

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belong to a success story, and at the Minafin Group we hope to be viewed in that manner.”

With such an entrepreneurial spirit in both a fast and agile company, Minafin and its subsidiary Minakem also ensures that once it has attracted the right talent, the process doesn’t stop there.

Van Nieuwenhove adds: “Once people are on board we invest greatly in their training throughout the year, continuing to develop their talent.

“Due to the fast evolution of our business and work, we are having to tackle increasingly complex and

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technical issue and therefore we are having to provide high-quality education in-house.”

Moving forward, as well as increasing its capabilities through training and development, it hopes to double its size within the next decade.

“We don’t just want to be one of those companies that is number one purely down to size,” concludes Van Nieuwenhove. “We will work to remain at the forefront of our customers minds, providing them with the best possible service while actively expanding our footprint all over the world.”

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TA L L I N N

Estonia’s

GATEWAY The Port of Tallinn is meeting three of the logistics industry’s key megatrends in order to become one of the Baltic sea’s most innovative national portals Writer: Matthew Staff

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S H I P P I N G

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ith an influential history that stretches back thousands of years, the Port of Tallinn’s role as a gateway between east and west, and north and south, is as prevalent today as it ever was.

Encapsulating much that is positive about the Estonian capital down the years, the growth of both the city and its leading port goes hand-in-hand with each’s development directly affecting the evolution of the other.

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“The Port of Tallinn has such a long history but has existed as a state-owned entity since 1991,” introduces Chief Executive Officer, Valdo Kalm. “That being said, this year we are talking about listing a third of the Company on the Tallinn stock exchange, to affirm the fact that, despite being a private entity, it is very much run as a business.”

This business has expanded and diversified extensively in recent years, branching out from its traditional

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cargo operations to formulate a multi-faceted facility contributing to numerous strands of the Estonian economy.

Kalm continues: “We were traditionally known as a cargo port but are now renowned for operations across four main business areas.

“The biggest of these nowadays is geared towards passengers and cruise lines. Lines to Helsinki, Stockholm and St Petersburg are especially thriving and now

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contribute the biggest portion of revenue to our overall portfolio.”

Domestic ferry business along local lines forms a second value-added division of the modern-day Port of Tallinn, while the optimisation of real estate and industrial parks showcases the business’s ability to harness the wider opportunities generated by being a national gateway.

“Then finally, of course, is our cargo operations which are still going strong,” Kalm finishes. “We have two cargo ports in Estonia and one is among the biggest in the Baltics.

“Together, the four business areas combined showcase the Port of Tallinn’s diversity and ability to split revenues across more than one driver.”

At the crossroads

Inevitably, by comprising so many significant contributors to a nation’s economy, and as a world-facing greeter to both tourists and business

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professionals, the Port’s importance to Estonia as a whole is sizeable.

It’s the biggest gate to the country having welcomed as many as 11 million passengers last year; the fourth largest influx in Europe.

Kalm elaborates: “We’re a hub, basically. A hub to the east and Russia, a hub to Central Europe, and a hub to Scandinavia. We have the perfect position at the crossroads between east and west, and south and north, which is great from both a passenger

and cargo perspective.”

The biggest percentage of both emanate from neighbours, Finland who account for around 60 percent of passengers in particular, but significant links with the likes of Russia and Sweden further emphasise the scope of the Port’s influence.

And to this end, it has become ever-more imperative in recent years to become not only bigger from a capacity perspective, but also more efficient across every facet.

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“The passenger element is a good example of this need to grow and also to become more efficient,” Kalm explains. “That line of business is a massive growth area so we need to support that growth and are doing so by building a new cruising terminal in Tallinn at the old city harbour.

On the cargo side we have already engaged in quite a heavy investment programme and now have an excellent infrastructure.

“We can only expand so much though, and after that the best way to cater for demand is to become more efficient, rather than just bigger. There are around 30 harbours and ports around the Baltic sea and it is in these areas of enhanced efficiency and speed that we are looking to differentiate ourselves.”

Driving this agenda is a strong workforce geared towards innovation, optimisation of advanced technologies and operational excellence. And the Port of Tallinn has endeared itself as

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an employer of choice by not only providing a thriving platform for these attributes to succeed, but by then motivating and remunerating the most talented individuals accordingly.

Megatrends

“Ultimately, smart people want to be part of the Port of Tallinn story, and involved in the trend curve,” Kalm emphasises. “We have an internal vision to become the most innovative port in the Baltic sea and this requires the requisite people able to both react

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Ultimately, smart people want to be part of the Port of Tallinn story, and involved in the trend curve

to, and drive industry megatrends.”

The first of these megatrends is the sheer size of the vessels entering the ports, and the Port of Tallinn has already responded in kind by expanding its facilities to be able to accommodate it.

“The second and perhaps biggest trend though, is digitisation and automation,” Kalm states. “We’ve again addressed this through initiatives like our smart port application being used in our passenger port. This involves giving passengers more

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control while their own vehicles’ admissions are automated.

“On the cargo side, it has also involved the complete digitisation of the logistics chain. We have been very active on this front in speeding up vessels’ declaration of entry to the port, and communications with customs.”

The Port is currently running a pilot for digitisation of railways and truck routes to fully digitalise all aspects of the site’s logistics chain, having become one of the business’s most

L O G I S T I C S

concerted investment areas.

The final megatrend then addresses environmental requirements. Rather than simply meeting legislated expectations though, the Port is looking to turn the trend into its favour and is doing so through its own dedicated arm, Green Marine.

Resultantly ensuring the complete recycling of all waste across the Port, the Company is once again demonstrating an ability to not just adhere to trends, but to be pioneers in overcoming them.

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“If we look two or three years ahead we can measure our success in terms of executed plans and visions in line with these megatrends,” Kalm concludes. “We are pioneers, and it’s all paying off in terms of statistics.

“Last year we welcomed more than 11 million passengers, 20 million tonnes of cargo and a further 2.3 million passengers through our own local, domestic lines. These are key figures not just from a business growth perspective, but as testaments to our pioneering, innovative nature.”

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To Move

Mountains The Port of Namur is successfully implementing a change in mindset to businesses across Wallonia, looking to diversify its portfolio in order to adapt to the changing market requirements Writer: Phoebe Calver

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A N D

n its 40th year of operations, Port of Namur is a fully-fledged success in the Walloon region and further afield as an independent public company.

The Port is not what you would typically expect when you hear its name, based away from the typical seaside expanse, it is located on the Rivers Meuse and Sambre in the south of Belgium.

At present the Port manages 160 hectares of land spread along both rivers, mainly owned by the Region.

“Our prime goal is to promote river transportation for companies,” Dominique de Paul de Barchifontaine, Director of the Port of Namur explains. “Approximately 98 percent

L O G I S T I C S

of the land that we manage is bound to welcome industrial activities, therefore we are able to step in and place industries or companies on it.

“We provide a hybrid-model service as we are required to abide by a selection of public rules and legislations whilst adopting private sector business practices.

However, we are not operating under an administrative structure, we are a Company of public interest, managing estate located along our rivers in a way comparable to an SME.” “We have a public company structure and a management contract with the Walloon Region, defining our business’ structure and mission for a period of five years. This

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is quite common in our country, for example with the Belgian railways or other inland ports.”

Market stability

There are four ports located in Wallonia, all of which are independent companies with similar structures, missions and objectives.

“When it comes to sourcing the right company for a plot of land, we aim to settle a long-term basis contract,” adds de Paul. “This provides us with stability and the new business a chance to build or extend its activities and portfolio.

We are able to provide them with access to the river and the support they require to get themselves up and running.

IMAGE COURTESY OF ANDRÉ BERTRAND

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IMAGE COURTESY OF STÉPHANE COUPÉ

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“The company we award the contract to is not chosen on the basis of the price they can offer. All of our rates are predefined by the law and subsequently we are unable to place companies in competition with each other for a plot. This enables us to work in the public interest for those that will get the best possible use out of the land we have available.

“We have a fixed fee based on complex calculations that take into account the size of the plot, the length of the dock or the provided infrastructure.

“We will also look into the total

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The competitive element for all parties involved is far softer and it comes down to the quality of each project

tonnage possibly achieved for a piece of land. That defines a minimum tonnage which the company will have to pay, every additional ton being priced at a decreasing rate.”

The Port of Namur is trying to steer companies towards the rivers and away from the road as much as possible. Through this ‘penalty’ the Company hopes to achieve that target as it is a far cheaper and more efficient means of transportation. de Paul adds: “The competitive element for all parties involved is far softer and it comes down to the quality of each

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IMAGE COURTESY OF ANN-FRANÇOISE WIAME

L O G I S T I C S

“Changing the way people think is increasingly difficult, which we have discovered recently when working with a wood-chip company from Ghent”

EME our product portfolio.”

Alongside searching for new business avenues, the Company also hopes to achieve a shift from working predominantly in bulk management, to value-added logistics that involves not only managing bulk but also the transportation of a wider range of goods with various packaging solutions such as big bags and containers.

Innovative spirit

“Our line of work is extremely practical, and we still have some industries with access to the river that are not utilising it”

IMAGE COURTESY OF ANDRÉ BERTRAND

project, including future prospects, employment and any opportunity created for the local area and the Region.”

New projects

When it comes to the Company’s estate portfolio, it is relatively stunted by the fact it doesn’t offer a lot of opportunities for extension, as de Paul explains: “Land is a scarce resource and citizens, communities, cities are more and more environment conscious, which is a good thing as it forces projects to be thought differently than in the past.”

“Although lack of extension posed

At present the transportation market is experiencing a shift in paradigm and pace, and soon it is expected and hoped that there will be a vast transfer from the leading road transportation onto a structured combination of railway and rivers.

“Our line of work is extremely practical, and we still have some industries with access to the river that are not utilising it,” de Paul adds. “We IMAGE COURTESY OF ANN-FRANÇOISE WIAME try to help them understand how they could gain more out of using the river as a transportation stream, changing “I hope that as we continue to grow as their logistics’ chain and the way that a business, we will they carry out their business.” successfully add “Changing the way people think is more diversification to our portfolio, increasingly difficult, which we have working together with discovered recently when working with companies as a logistics’ a wood-chip company from Ghent. partner to produce the Although they could transport their most fruitful outcome for all, placing emphasis products more efficiently via water, on the road to river chartering a barge to do so is not their switch” top priority at present. We need to change this way of thinking so that very soon it will be a top priority for an issue initially, we have taken this companies across the country.” knowledge on board as a challenge,” The Port of Namur has an innovative de Paul describes. “Now we use this as an opportunity for reinvention, looking spirit that will serve it well moving forward, taking its private company into the requirements of the market management spirit to the public and so that we can offer them the most attractive pitch possible that will serve greater good of the Region. de Paul concludes: “I hope that as we both the business and the community. continue to grow as a business, we will “At present we are looking into successfully add more diversification a new project in the ship building business, working with a company that to our portfolio, working together specialises in barges for river transport with companies as a logistics’ partner and river cruises. It is work like this that to produce the most fruitful outcome we are looking to expand into and that for all, placing emphasis on the road to is providing us with a new facet within river switch.”

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Surpassing

Expectatio Priedemann Facade Experts have adopted a unique approach to the building facade industry, specialising its services in the pursuit of vertical growth Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Tom Cullum here is a uniqueness to Priedemann Facade Experts that sets it apart from its competition, stemming from a long history of innovation and attention to detail that has built long-lasting client relationships.

The Company has a focused approach to its full service work on facades, with operations specifically dedicated to its field of expertise.

“We learnt early on that it is wrong to insist on your own service scope and descriptions,” explains Lars Anders, CEO at Priedemann Facade Experts. “What our clients need to be successful is a company that will listen to their needs and find the perfect solution to meet them; that is what we are able to offer.

“We know that the requirements of a facade consultancy in the UK will differ tremendously from one in

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Nairobi for example, therefore we have founded local set-ups to ensure that we understand local needs and combine these with global expertise in order to customise our service as per the market requirements.”

Central to the success of the Company since it was founded in 1993, is its focused core competence.

Priedemann was created in order to meet with the construction demand in Berlin after the wall came down, placing itself right at the centre of the drastic changes being witnessed at that time.

Anders continues: “There was a lot of space to fill in the new heart of Berlin and Mr Priedemann, the founder of the Company, built up a business that was able to work successfully on these projects to accomplish the perfect facade for each of it.”

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Changing outlook

The core business established by Mr Priedemann, was set up to provide facade consultancy services, in which the Company would support designing architects and project owners with the provision of technical solutions, costing and quality management.

Through the years, the whole character of the consultancy has changed with the final outcome of a more collaborative approach to each contract, holding consulting-rounds and taking on more responsibility for guiding clients through the entire process.

“Generally, I would say that one of the most important aspects of our business is ensuring that clients are receiving

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best value for money,” affirms Anders.

“They want to execute the construction of a perfect energy efficient building envelope in time, budget and best designs, while using a person that they can trust to make this happen.”

In order to perfectly stay stateof-the-art with its services while still providing value for money, the Company founded the Priedemann Facade-Lab a headquarters specifically for work on its research & development (R&D) services.

Anders adds: “Through incorporating new technologies into its remit, we have been able to increase innovation within our Company while also filling a gap in the market to suit our vertical strategy for growth.”

ZAK WORLD OF FAÇADES

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ak World of Façades (www. zakworldoffacades.com) is an International conference series on façade design & engineering, having attracted more than 12,000 delegates across its 39 completed editions.

The conference is currently being organised in 20 countries in the Middle East (UAE, Qatar, Kuwait & Saudi Arabia), South Asia (India & Sri Lanka), Southeast Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines & Indonesia), Africa (Kenya, Morocco & South Africa), Greater China (Hong Kong), Europe (United Kingdom & France) & Australasia (Australia & New Zealand) and the United States of America. The event attracts senior architects, developers, façade consultants, PMCs, Façade contractors along with key consultants & decision makers.

The event comprises keynote presentations and Pecha-Kucha sessions from premier speakers from the façade industry, engaging panel discussions and power networking, which offers opportunities to the delegates attending this conference to share and learn the latest trends and advancements in the façade industry, as we extensively believe in enhancing the power of knowledge for every attending delegate and organisation at our conference.

The forum also pushes the creativity and challenges the solution providers to innovate and bring out the best services and products in line with the expectation of the designers.

Our experience in organising events for the façade and fenestration industry for more than two decades makes us strongly believe that customer satisfaction is key to our success of our conferences, as we strive to deliver high quality, engaging and well attended events for the future.

PHOTOGRAPHY: X21.DE REINER FREESE Top row from left to right clockwise: Wolfgang Priedemann, Hans-Ulrich Schellhorn, Kaan Kuran, Anees A. Backer, Wolfgang Feuerlein, Micha Pawelka, Lars Anders and Alexander Tornow

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At present Priedemann’s competition is growing more horizontally, adding more consulting services to its portfolio instead of increasing the detailed knowledge to create a speciality within the market.

“This is not our strategy, and over the years we have tried to remain focused on facades,” explains Anders.

“This is why we chose to rename our practice to facade experts, moving our work away from simple facade consultancies and facade engineering.

“It is our aim to become an expert in the development of the building envelope products, which will subsequently enable us to deliver the best possible service for our clients.”

Over the years, the Company has been stringent on its mission of being focused on its vertical growth, which occasionally has called for stepping back from projects or certain opportunities.

Anders continues: “I was recently met with a proposal from an office in an international hot spot and despite the fact it was very appealing, it would have involved a 50/50 split between consultancy and structural work. We didn’t believe that adding a structural company to our portfolio would be the right fit. We do one thing – beyond standard.”

It is our aim to become an expert in the development of the building envelope products...

PHOTOGRAPHY: SCHUECO

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As previously mentioned, Priedemann was formed out of a need to aid the rebuilding of Berlin’s new centre and for the Company; this began with a consultancy contract for a tower building in a more classical “New York style design”.

This signature style has been developed and innovated over the years and has since led to exciting projects all over the world. For example, the team took part in an engineering contract for a tower project 10 years back in Kuwait, tasked with creating a facade for a twistedbuilding, which it achieved through work with a local firm instead of expensive imports.

“Perhaps one of our smaller but iconic projects was the Porsche Pavilion,” states Anders. “It was a relatively small, recently designed building that was built to look like the engine cowling of a Porsche 911 and something that was of course difficult to achieve, but now it is such an iconic piece as the Porsche showroom for the newest car presentations. It’s fully welded out of steel as one monocoque - unique in the world.”

From the smallest to the largest development, the creation of the glass facade on the Festo building in Esslingen was a high point for the Company, where Priedemann was hired to achieve something that hadn’t been done before.

“The Company that hired us is a market leader in its sector and required a headquarters that would represent its innovative strength; with the main question being could we do something that hasn’t been done before,” explains Anders. “For Festo, we created a new kind of fully glazed exhaust air facade, including a new air cavity double-skin with thanks to the use of blinds which proved to be incredibly cost and energy-effective.”

The idea of integrating blinds into the overall energy design affect of

Al-Tijaria Tower project - installation of mock-up facade for testing

the facade began in the Middle East, where blinds were being used in particular as glare control and as a way to control the heat when a facade was not doing its job properly.

Anders describes: “It then clicked in my brain that the use of textile could

provide us with a helpful tool, and that drove our design on alongside the use of electro-chrome glazing which changes shade depending on the intensity of the sun. The achieved comfort is outstanding, the facade an active element.

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Facade-Lab network event

“It is also the first project in the world to have a small-robot cleaning the whole glass facade. It is able to wash it automatically by extreme reduced water consumption and providing a “no look into” privacy during usage; so I would say that in its entirety this project provided a milestone in innovation for our Company.”

Creating opportunities

During the 16 years that Anders has worked at Priedemann, the Company has grown from six people to a team

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PHOTOGRAPHY: X21.DE REINER FREESE

of 130 and in that time only very few people have resigned. This fact is a testament to the dedication to its people and pride taken by management to ensure that they are happy and fulfilled within their role.

Anders adds: “We provide customised contracts with individual responsibility for each of our employees. The wellbeing of each team member is a matter that is very close to our heart, we’re a family and we listen to the demands they have to deal with in life in order to get the best for everyone.

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“We also try to create career opportunities all over the world in our various outlets, alongside providing educational programmes in all aspects of business from software to management skills.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: X21.DE REINER FREESE

“...we’re a family and we listen to the demands they have to deal with in life in order to get the best for everyone.”

“We also try to create career opportunities all over the world in our various outlets, alongside providing educational programmes in all aspects of business from software to management skills.”

It is apparent in every aspect of the business that attention to detail and respect are key factors in the success it has experienced over the years, growing from a small business to a great success.

“I think a nice note to finish on that sums up our ethos within the Company

2018 world map of offices and representatives

came with the recent return of one of our team members,” concludes Anders. “A year ago one of my employees decided to try out a new opportunity and I told him to go and see what the world had to offer him, but to bear in mind that we would miss him and that our door was always open to him.

“A year later to the day he returned and that made me incredibly proud.

We’re a big family with an exceptional work ethic and I believe that is why we succeed and people want to stay.”

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( VA O S )

Resilient and

RESPONSIBLE Facing challenges with determination and tenacity, VAOS’s growth in spite of trying conditions is paying off in the form of a portfolio diversification, international expansion and improved client satisfaction Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Josh Hyland

stablished 35 years ago to provide comprehensive construction and maintenance services to the oil, gas and petrochemical industry in Libya, Value Added Oilfield Services (VAOS) has adapted to regional, cultural, political and industrial requirements in order to remain at the forefront of innovation and continuous improvement.

Now operating as a privately-owned entity from its head office in Malta following a 1997 management buyout and relocation, the resultant provider still also enjoys Libya – as well as Austria - as two of its core presence points, and from these three bases is looking to expand its impressive remit around the world.

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“Although our core competence can be found in the revamping and building of storage tanks, our project references clearly portray a wide range of completed jobs covering a wide range of disciplines such as civil, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and environmental engineering, piping, insulation, coating, fire fighting systems, plant maintenance, hot tapping works, intelligent pigging, drilling for water wells, and cathodic protection,” introduces Managing Director, Christian Wintersteiger.

“VAOS’s aim is to be a one-stop shop for its customers in Libya, servicing the mid and downstream infrastructures.

“All-told, our footprint currently runs across Libya, Nigeria and Kuwait; the last two being new markets for us with a strong focus on nonman-entry tank cleaning and other environmental services such as oily pit cleaning and soil remediation. From these current markets we are planning to expand into neighbouring countries in that region to establish our organisation’s reach across North Africa, the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa over the next five-10 years.”

This proactive approach is indicative not just of the Company’s footprint ambitions, but also VAOS’s ability to diversify its remit accordingly, and to then implement new and improved processes to facilitate such developments.

Wintersteiger offers as examples: “As a consequence of unsatisfactory, historically messy and unhealthy manual tank cleaning jobs, mostly forming part of tank revamping projects, VAOS had invested into a BLABO® system to carry out tank cleaning jobs in a safe, fast and environmentally friendly way; and has become a partner of ORECO A/S for the automated recovery of hydrocarbons from sludge and nonman-entry cleaning of storage tanks.

“VAOS is the only service provider in the field of ‘Automated Hydrocarbon Recovery and Tank Cleaning (AHRTC)’ in the Libyan market with a proven track record of successfully completed projects and an average recovery rate of 99 percent of hydrocarbons from crude oil sludge since 2003.”

Determination and tenacity

A track record such as this, complemented by unparalleled scales – including its drilling division’s ability

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PLANIT TRAVEL SERVICES

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stablished in Malta in 1996, Planit Travel Services builds on 40 years of experience delivering travel services to corporate clients.

We have the pleasure to work closely with VAOS during the past few years, providing a comprehensive travel service that includes flights, charter flights to Libya, accommodation, car rental and private transfers.

Planit Travel Services employs a team of experienced and dedicated travel consultants who offer continuous support, also in difficult instances, such as delays, missed connections, evacuations and other emergencies, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers at all times.

T +356 2133 1010 E info@planit247.eu

www.planit247.eu to drill water wells to depths of 2,300 metres – offers flexibility to move into new sectors as has been witnessed through VAOS’s recent environmental services work.

But such diversifications also allow the business to remain agile in what has been a trying climate over the past decade.

Wintersteiger elaborates: “Resilience has been our main differentiator and is the adjective that defines us best! Over the past seven years, since the beginning of the so called ‘Arab Spring’ we have been put to the test many times. We have gone through two major campaigns of evacuating a large majority of our workforce, and we have seen huge fluctuations in terms of revenue and a severe shortage of local currency in Libya; but we have weathered these storms and faced the challenges with determination and tenacity.

“We have continuously serviced our clients in Libya during the times of the

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uprising and the following political instability as one of the very few European Contractors (at times the only one) in this country. This has not only hardened us as an organisation, but has strengthened our reputation and standing within the industry as a reliable service partner that is here to stay.”

An exciting future

While the wider Group’s headquarters can now be found in Malta, VAOS still has an operational head office in Tripoli, complemented by seven permanent service bases around Eastern Libya. And from these two core national hubs - and now, additionally, Kuwait and Nigeria

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- Chartered & Scheduled Flights - Deluxe Accommodation - Standard & VIP Transfers - Concierge Services - Conferences & Events

187, Triq Nazju Ellul, Gzira, GZR 1629, Malta www.planit247.eu | info@planit247.eu | Tel: +356 2133 1010

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following successful joint ventures the Company is on a prime strategic and geographic footing to progress.

Its primary aim from this position of strength is to promote AHRTC services (non-man-entry tank cleaning) across each territory but doing so in a sustainable, efficient and responsible way.

“Our first and foremost policy is to serve our clients in the best possible manner by delivering quality jobs, on time and within budget,” Wintersteiger explains. “We have always maintained a very close relationship with our clients, listening to their needs and requirements in order to try and find solutions to their problems. Sometimes this leads to searching for innovative ideas and new technologies, such as the non-manentry tank cleaning solution.

“The longstanding, good reputation as a reliable service partner and trusted relationship-builder since 1983 remains key in attaining contracts in this market today.”

Of course, regardless of how personalised a service is, any company is only as good as the ultimate service it provides, and VAOS certainly ticks this box too having completed

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY “Trends we are noticing within the oil & gas industry in many countries in the Middle East and Africa is a higher consciousness in terms of protecting the environment and cleaning up environmental sins that have been committed in the past. Industrialised countries, particularly Europe are leading the way in this regard and it is important for humanity in general, with an ever-growing population, to keep our environment clean. The oil & gas industry committed many sins in terms of exploitation of indigenous peoples and polluting their lands in the past. This is changing!”

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numerous high profile, challenging projects over the decades.

“One such example comprised the installation of a cathodic protection system to the enormous pipe network of the Great Man Made River Authority in Libya. This job entailed the drilling of more than 80,000 holes with a depth of 10 metres each, then placing sacrificial anodes, backfilling and connecting the anodes to the electrical system. The challenge here was mostly due to the logistics involved given the sheer number of holes to be drilled over distances in-excess of 400 kilometres across desert and coastal environments,” Wintersteiger details.

Similarly notable projects include the drilling of three deep water wells in Southern Libya in preparation for oil well drilling, the construction of a propane/butane gas storage tank, the installation of HP and LP gas turbines, Sahara-based pipeline constructions, and the many AHRTC works that have occurred in recent times, just to name a few.

“Now, following our successful market entry into Nigeria, we have our first few projects lined up there this year, while we are also witnessing a recovery in Libya whereby downstream investments will be necessary to increase production outputs and exports moving forward,” the MD continues. “Such projects would include the building of new, and refurbishment of existing, storage tanks; pipeline replacements; and other important equipment installations.

“We are looking ahead for an exciting future with rapid market growth!”

A greener, cleaner world

Having been affected by the political uprising in its main market of Libya, VAOS has sensibly made up for any project shortfalls in the country by focusing on internal improvements instead, ensuring that the Company’s

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S E R V I C E S

( V A O S )

“Over the coming years we wish to see ourselves as market leaders in non-manentry tank cleaning in our current markets while expanding into two more countries with this important activity.”

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“Although our core competence can be found in the revamping and building of storage tanks, our project references clearly portray a wide range of completed jobs covering a wide range of disciplines...”

“Our first and foremost policy is to serve our clients in the best possible manner by delivering quality jobs, on time and within budget.”

EME facilities and procedures are primed for a domestic recovery.

Spreading the risk through international expansion has been a similarly successful strategy to this end, and the combination of the two has now laid the foundations for exciting growth to come.

Importantly though, despite company-wide broadening, there remains an intrinsically wholesome and localised ethos.

“We have always had a very large staff compliment of local employees and we actually wish to increase this segment,” Wintersteiger emphasises.

“Some countries however are making it rather difficult for companies to actually source skilled workers in the local market due to the absence of apprenticeships or technical training institutes, but it’s about establishing the right balance between local employment and reaching sustainable levels of staff in terms of productivity.

“From a supply chain management perspective, localisation plays into our hands as sourcing materials within a specific timeframe aids project speeds, but where there is a lack of availability we once again look to source internationally instead.”

The same philosophy will be applied to Kuwait, Nigeria and forthcoming presence points as VAOS looks to create win-win, mutually beneficial networks across the organisation, ultimately gearing the Company up for an exciting, responsible future.

Wintersteiger concludes: “Over the coming years we wish to see ourselves as market leaders in non-man-entry tank cleaning in our current markets while expanding into two more countries with this important activity.

“Our mission is to contribute towards a greener, cleaner world within the oil & gas industry and we strongly believe in the massive benefits non-man-entry tank cleaning provides for our clients and the industry at large.”

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EURELECTRIC

POWER

SUMMIT

E V E N T

2018

F O C U S

‘Watt’s next’ for Europe’s energy industry?

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Event Details WHEN: 4-5 June WHERE: Ljubljana, Slovenia WEBSITE: www.wattsnext.eurelectric.org

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THE ENERGY INDUSTRY is at a tipping point. New players are entering the business. New products are disrupting markets. Customers and business relations are being revamped.

Who knows what’s next? eurelectric’s Power Summit Watt’s Next taking place on 4-5 June in Ljubljana, Slovenia is the ultimate forum where major utility CEOs, leaders of change and industry captains will challenge your mindset and shape business strategies to meet the energy future successfully.

Watt’s Next will bring you this year more panels, interviews and interactive sessions with distinguished panellist and speakers. Join us and let yourself be inspired by exclusive insights from major utility CEOs,

including Francesco Starace of ENEL SpA, Magnus Hall of Vattenfall, Alistair Philips-Davies of SSE and Pekka Lundmark of Fortum.

To register for the Watt’s Next Power Summit, and to discover the programme and speakers, please visit www.wattsnext.eurelectric.org.

Power Summit Watt’s Next?

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E V E N T

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F O C U S

Spearheading a more sustainable, low-carbon and smart energy system

Event Details WHEN: 17-20 September WHERE: Barcelona, Spain WEBSITE: www.gpexevent.com

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2018

THE ROAD TO 2050, digitalisation of the energy sector, and financing the future of energy are three key themes of this year’s Global Power & Energy Leaders’ Summit, taking place at GPEX 2018, in Spain.

GPEX 2018, alongside Gastech in Barcelona, Spain (17-20 September), will spearhead a more sustainable, low-carbon and smart energy system through its newly released conference programme agenda.

The modernisation of the energy system is taking place simultaneously with a shift to a low-carbon economy.

With the increasingly central role of digital technologies, the power and energy industries need to adapt their business models and embrace innovation, within the new energy landscape, to remain competitive, become more efficient and adapt to the growing needs and demands of their customers.

70 transition experts from international power and energy business will speak, including:

• Agustín Delgado Martin, Chief Innovation and Sustainability Officer, Iberdrola Group • Neil Chatterjee, Commissioner, US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) • Toshiro Kudama, Chief Power Development Officer, JERA Co., Inc. • Blanca Losada Martin, Chief Technology and Engineering Officer, Gas Natural Fenosa • Ulla Sandborgh, Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Svenska kraftnät • Thierry Lepercq, Executive Vice President in charge of Research & Technology and Innovation, ENGIE • Andrea Strachinescu, Head of Unit, New Energy Technologies, Innovation and Clean Coal, DG Energy, European Commission • Tejpreet S. Chopra, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bharat Light & Power

GPEX Exhibition

The Summit is an integral part of the Global Power & Energy Exhibition (GPEX 2018) – which will showcase 200 exhibiting companies demonstrating the strategies and technologies needed to adapt to the energy transition.

Participating companies include EDP Renevaveis, InnoEnergy, Innogy, Alternative Energy Innovations, and A.T. Kearney Energy Transition Institute.

Co-located with Gastech, these events will bring together 30,000 global power and energy industry professionals - government, commercial and industrial power users, gas operators, power producers and distributors, technology providers and renewable energy companies; to enhance the dialogue between the sectors that will play a significant role in the global energy transition.

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17-20 SEPTEMBER 2018 FIRA GRAN VIA, BARCELONA, SPAIN

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REGISTER TO ATTEND WWW.GPEXEVENT.COM/EME1 info@gpexevent.com +44 (0) 203 615 2393 Participating companies include:

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