MEA November

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MAKING BETTER COMPANIES

Business Solutions with Synergy’s Stuart Curtis.

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ACHIEVING ELECTRIFYING SUCCESS Phoenix Contact AFFORDABLE LUXURY Royal Rose Hotel GLOBAL RETAIL BRAND Apparel Group Middle East Markets | November

Editors Letter Welcome to the November edition of MEA Markets Magazine, which features all the latest news, deals and developments across Middle East and Africa.

Technology is an industry which is growing in Africa as we examine how Phoenix Contact have achieved success with the firms winning combination of strong client service and industry leading innovation. In addition, Brighter World Energy have announced for every 2,000 customers signed up with their company, a solar powered micro-grid is installed in Africa, supporting growth in the technology sector.

Located in the Middle East, Synergy provides clients with vital insight into the best way to start, run and grow successful businesses, whilst we also speak to Shamal Marketing Communications who tell us about how they run a successful independent, public relations consultancy.

As well as hearing how companies are growing in the region, we also receive some corporate advice from Winston & Strawn. With investigations into alleged bribery and corruption becoming more prominent, the international law firm examines how UAE companies should remain compliant when faced with potential corruption investigations.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Matt Lewis, Editor Phone: +44 (0) 203 725 6842 Email: matthew.lewis@ai-globalmedia.com Website: www.middleeast-markets.com

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Contents

Apparel Group

4 Latest News from Across the Middle East and Africa

TECHNOLOGY 10 Phoenix Contact: Achieving Electrifying Success

LEGAL 13 MJS: Critical to Corporate South Africa 16 Bribery and Corruption in the UAE - Managing Bribery Investigations

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Royal Rose Hotel

18 Attorneys, Notaries, Conveyancers

MARKETING 20 Business Solutions with Synergy

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22 Creative and Cost-Effective Communications

Phoenix Contact INVESTMENT 24 A Quick Guide for Middle Eastern Companies Eying New Opportunities in Africa

HOSPITALITY 26 Affordable Luxury 28 Global Retail Brand

DEALS 30 MediaCom and indaHash Introduce South Africa to a New Influencer Marketing Approach 31 Telemisis and Jabil Inala Announce Strategic Partnership

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mea Markets News

Brighter World Energy Raises £500,000 in Seed Capital to Provide Solar Energy to Africa Brighter World Energy plans to use the funding to ensure consumer power tackles the global energy crisis. righter World Energy, a new socially conscious energy company launching in the United Kingdom, has announced that it has completed a £500,000 seed capital round with the help of ClearlySo, Europe’s leading impact investment bank.

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Brighter World Energy’s dual mission is to offer UK customers access to energy at competitive tariffs and high-quality online support, which will contribute directly to help build solar-powered micro-grids in Africa. For every 2,000 customers signed up with Brighter World Energy, a solar powered micro-grid is installed in Africa.

Brighter World Energy’s model shows that it will offer the average household up to £200 per annum in savings when compared to the average standard variable tariff of the Big Six energy providers.

Their mission to deliver renewable energy in Africa positions the company to align their business with UK customer values, build sustainable stakeholder engagement and thus strengthen their position in the domestic energy market for the long-term.

Not-for-Profit supplier Robin Hood Energy does the regulatory, energy trading, meter reading and meter management activities.

challenges with a fair and transparent business model, is the right way to do business.”

Further commenting, Hayley Collen, investment director at ClearlySo: “There is a clear correlation between access to energy and inequality. Brighter World Energy is helping solve this problem by leveraging the power and consciousness of the British consumer to provide access to clean energy for those who need it most whilst getting a competitive price for their own fuel. We are delighted that ClearlySo’s extensive investor network was able to help give them the capital they need to launch this very important endeavour.”

The legal advisor on the transaction was Pannone Corporate LLP. Corporate partner Tom Hall who led the team said: “Brighter World Energy will not only enable socially conscious consumers to save money on their household energy bills but will make a real difference to the lives of people in Africa.

“Growing numbers of UK consumers are keen to source energy from companies operating in the sustainable and not for profit sectors. We are delighted to advise Brighter World Energy on securing the seed capital which will help fulfil its ambitions of becoming a leading provider in the UK energy market.

Cheryl Latham, Brighter World Energy’s founder and chief executive officer, said: “We’re here for those conscious consumers who want a good deal, but also want to use the power of their purchase to do some fundamental good in the world.

“With more than a billion unconnected people around the world, making a simple switch here at home will turn on the lights for villages in Africa for the very first time. Everyone should have the same right to access energy, no matter where they are born.

“Our investors’ have belief in the Brighter World mission, putting positively life-changing power in the hands of UK consumers, and addressing global

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EQS Group starts Company in the United Arab Emirates The EQS Group has been active for over a year in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain through a cooperative partnership. he EQS Group, a leading technology provider for digital investor relations in Europe and Asia, is pushing ahead with its global expansion. The founding of EQS Group FZ-LLC, based in the United Arab Emirates, completes EQS’s entry into the Middle East, a region with more than 1,000 listed companies which is opening up rapidly to foreign investors. As such, there is great demand for digital solutions for transparent financial market communications.

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EQS’s new Middle Eastern location is yet another part of the company’s committed expansion strategy to be present in the most important financial markets in Europe, Asia, North America and the Middle East.

This strategy is rooted firmly in a local presence and deep market understanding, complemented by the international expertise EQS has from being a technology leader.

Web address: www.Middle-East.EQS.com

The EQS Group has been active for over a year in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain through a cooperative partnership. From its Dubai location, opened in mid-October, the EQS team supports IR managers in the Middle East with products and services for professional digital investor relations. In addition to accessing and addressing investors via EQS’s global Financial Newswire, companies can benefit from EQS’s wide spectrum of tools and services that ensure secure and integrated workflow.

Achim Weick, founder and CEO of EQS Group, “we’ve already learned a great deal about the market and its requirements and we’re confident that our approach to digitalising investor relations work, which has been proven so successful in Europe and Asia, will also offer great added value to investor relations managers in the Middle East. It is a win-win situation: The Middle East offers EQS great potential for growth while the companies in this region’s still young market profit from our know-how.”

Dirk Wagner, responsible for business operations in the Middle East, on his new role, “a growing recognition and awareness of the importance of investor relations in the region, both among business managers and stock market operators, has helped EQS establish important customer relationships as well as support multiple issuers in investor communications with our unique technology.”

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mea Markets News Westin Hotels & Resorts debuts in Cairo, setting a New Standard for Well-Being in Egypt’s Capital City Renowned well-being brand opens second hotel in Egypt this year.

estin Hotels and Resorts, part of Marriott International, Inc. has announced the opening of Egypt’s best kept secret, The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa Katameya Dunes. Owned by New Cairo for Real Estate Investment Company, the resort and spa is located in the prestigious, residential community of Katameya Dunes, anchored by a 27-hole championship golf course designed by world-renowned Nick Faldo and Brian Curley. With Westin’s signature wellness initiatives offered for global travellers and local residents alike, the hotel is poised to set a new standard for well-being in Cairo.

“The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa Katameya Dunes provides a restorative retreat in the heart of the bustling city with genuine service, complemented with the Westin signature well-being offerings that fuel and energize our guests’ every move,” Eben Nel, General Manager, The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & spa Katameya Dunes added.

“The global demand for wellness continues to propel Westin’s growth momentum around the world, including our debut in new markets like Doha and Dubai and our expanded presence in destinations like Spain, Germany and now Egypt,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts. “As the second Westin hotel to open in Egypt this year, we are thrilled to introduce the brand in Cairo and inspire a new level of well-being for our guests’ before, during and after their stay.”

The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa Katameya Dunes features three dining options, including a pool bar, golf club bar and Paloma – an all-day Mediterranean restaurant that features an open-kitchen in its centre as well as the brand’s signature Vertical Garden, which brings the benefits of nature into the hotel’s public space. The restaurant offers variety of culinary options alongside Westin’s nutrient-rich and delicious SuperFoodsRx™ and Fresh by the Juicery menus.

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“We are extremely proud to extend Westin’s global reach into Cairo,” said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International “The serene setting of this resort, food and beverage offerings as well as the amenities will bring to life the brand’s commitment to guests’ wellbeing through a local lens.”

With 135 guestrooms and suites, the thoughtfullydesigned resort and spa feels residential and intimate, yet open and airy: designed with a biophilic-focus, suggesting that a connection to nature enhances well-being. Colours found in nature inspired the sophisticated palette coupled with natural materials and patterns that add textural layers to the interior design. Each of the well-appointed guestrooms offers views of the lush landscape that surround the grounds, from verdant fairways to meandering lagoons. Taking centre stage, and illustrative of the resort’s overall design, an art installation of white doves suspended from the ceiling is located in the serene and inviting lobby.

“Westin is the ideal brand for the Katameya Dunes development and we are excited to create a holistic wellbeing inspired lifestyle experience here in Cairo,” said the Abou Taleb brothers, Khaled and Tarek, owners and developers of Katameya Dunes.

With the brand’s mission to be a partner in guests’ well-being while traveling, The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa Katameya Dunes features an idyllic, naturally-lit indoor plunge pool as well as a sprawling, heated outdoor pool located at the centre of the resort.

Additionally, the 3000 square meter Heavenly Spa

by Westin boasts 10 therapy rooms and two couple suites as well as state-of-the-art facilities, including a high-tech steam room, “Rain Shower” and sauna – all designed to soothe the spirit, rejuvenate the body, and enrich the mind.

The hotel also offers the renowned RunWESTIN™ program with three- and five-mile jogging routes through the residential neighbourhood, as well as a WestinWORKOUT® fitness studio with state-of-theart exercise equipment from world-class brands in an open, airy and well-designed space.

Web address: www.Westin.com/CairoKatameyaDunes

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mea Markets News FTI Consulting Appoints Joel Kibazo to Spearhead Business Development across Africa Global business advisory firm FTI Consulting has announced the appointment of Joel Kibazo as Managing Director. Joel will be based in the firm’s London office.

oel Kibazo will support and promote the firm’s business growth throughout the continent, working closely with our Johannesburg and Cape Town offices together with FTI’s Consulting’s comprehensive Affiliate Network across Africa.

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He previously served as Director of Communications and External Relations at the African Development Bank, the continent’s premier financial and economic development institution where he worked closely with a wide range of partner institutions including the US Treasury, British and African governments, and numerous public and private sector institutions.

Prior to this role, Joel worked at the Commonwealth Secretariat, the inter-government body serving the 52 nations of the Commonwealth, and for 12 years he was also a journalist at the Financial Times covering the African business and financial sector. He has worked extensively in broadcasting,

reporting and presenting business, education and cultural programmes for the BBC and several other broadcasters. Joel is a member of the CNN Africa journalist of the year panel, a council member of the Royal Africa Society and a policy committee member of the Centre for the Study of African Economies at St. Anthony’s College at the University of Oxford.

Chris Osborne, Co-Chairman of FTI Consulting EMEA said, “Joel’s deep experience and extensive relationships are a valuable addition to our crossborder Africa team. Demand from our clients for strategic advice and on-the-ground support in the many diverse markets across the Africa continues to grow. Joel, together with our well established local offices and global network, gives us a unique insight into the risks and opportunities that those markets provide.”

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mea Markets News BHS Announces Plans to Grow Its Established International Business • • •

Product ranges will have a greater focus on its international customer base Expansion into new countries planned – starting in Qatar New state-of-the-art store openings

HS, the iconic retail British brand, has announced plans to grow its international business. This will involve launching in new countries and plans to open new stateof-the-art department stores, starting in Qatar.

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All ranges will continue to be designed in London, but there will be a greater focus on providing its franchise partners with products more tailored to the international customer. The style, value and quality synonymous with the brand will underpin the product range. BHS International has strengthened relations with a significant number of its traditional supplier base to support that offer.

BHS has a successful and profitable international business, operating franchise partnerships around the world. The first international franchise store opened in 1985, and it currently has 61 stores in 14 countries under the control of 11 franchise partners.

David Anderson, Managing Director, BHS International said, “our international business has been operating since 1985 and it’s enjoyed strong growth in recent years. Under the new owners, we have ambitious plans to accelerate this growth, and working closely with new and existing franchise partners we are confident we can do this; since the new International business was formed in June, we have secured agreements with new partners in new territories, and are in discussions with many others.

“In the countries we operate in outside of the UK, visiting shopping malls and stores is very much a leisure and family activity. Our franchise partners have made significant investment in their stores to ensure they provide an enjoyable shopping experience for their customers. We will help them build on this by providing a greater focus on market-specific products, and introducing new and exciting ranges.”

In the UK, BHS relaunched on 29th September 2016 as an online retailer with a range of lighting and home furnishing products that constituted around 75% of the most popular online items sold before it went into administration earlier this year.

Over the coming weeks BHS.com will add new ranges to its offering including kitchen and dining ware, and clothing items.

It has also developed a new online platform which it believes will be one of the most customer-friendly in the market; the ordering and checkout procedure has been streamlined; it is responsive to device; with further improvements to capability and functionality being developed and implemented.

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Non-profit organisation A multi-national company, transforming the property development industry in the Ivory Coast. Groupe Soverd is dedicated to fighting against poverty.

Groupe Soverd is based in Abidjan, Ivory Coast and has now grown into a multinational company with five commercial aspects of activity.

Contact us: Company: Groupe Soverd Name: Johnson Ulysse Youalou BEGONE BI Email: infos@groupesoverd.com Web Address: www.groupesoverd.com Address: Cocody, 2 Plateaux Bd, Latrille, Rue K 32 Lot 540, www.middleeast-markets.com Ilot, Abidjan, 28 BP 1345, Ivory Coast 33 l Corporate Vision November 2016

Feature Technology

Phoenix Contact: Achieving Electrifying Success Sustainability ME

Phoenix Contact is a leading manufacturer of electrical connection, electronic interface, and industrial automation technology. General Manager Iyad Madanat talks us through how the firm has achieved its current success. stablished in 2008 Phoenix Contact Middle East in Dubai under Tecom, following several years of operation through its representative office also in Dubai, the firm draws on the expertise of its parent firm Phoenix Contact, which was founded in 1923, with headquarters in Germany.

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“It is our reliable presence in the region which brings Phoenix Contact’s products and expertise into closer proximity to our clients and partners in the Middle East and Northeast Africa” Iyad states. “Our highly trained and qualified sales, marketing, technical support, logistics, and operational teams are available to support and accommodate the growing demand of our clients throughout the area.”

The firm’s latest incarnation is Phoenix Contact Electrical Equipment Trading LLC was established in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi at the end of 2012, and is the latest addition to the group’s expanding structure in the Middle East region. With this new company which is located in Mussafah Industrial zone, customers can now benefit from a closer local presence that provides them with improved technical and commercial support, a higher level of logistics services, and same-day product availability in many cases. Iyad, who is General Manager of the group’s Middle East faction, explains how the firm operates and why this approach helps it to better meet the needs of its clients.

“Phoenix Contact Middle East in the United Arab Emirates is an independent subsidiary with its own local management, sales, training, support and its own logistics operations. Along with our local partner network, and our own team located in six major cities across the region, we cover the individual needs of our customers in 23 countries in the Middle East and Northeast Africa. And this is typical of Phoenix Contact: personal contact with our customers – quickly and on site. This way, we can work together with our customers in an optimal manner, and always offer them the right solution with the most innovative products.”

Currently there are a number of exciting changes going on in the global automation technology and electronics market, as Iyad emphasises.

“This is a very interesting time for our industry.

We see a lot of changes globally in the way business in conducted. Certainly the new trend of digitalization of the industry, a concept also known as “Industry 4.0” is also a key focus area for Phoenix Contact, and we are transforming our company so that we too are ready and actively involved in this new industrial revolution.

“In the Middle East and Africa, we also see the trend of digitalization very clearly in the oil and gas industry, in smart city applications, as well as several areas of the energy and infrastructure industries. The aim is to always do things in a

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faster and more efficient manner, so that the growing needs of the population are always met in the best possible way.

“To achieve this, our core approach revolves around thinking and working in partnership.

At Phoenix Contact, our strategy is based on solid foundation of trust and partnership. This motivates us to take responsibility and gives us the freedom to come up with new ideas. We really enjoy working together to meet objectives. In this way, we are also safeguarding our economic success in the future and remaining a competitive and reliable partner for inspiring technology.”

“As a global player Phoenix Contact are represented in markets all over the world, and as such we are successfully involved in shaping the digitalization of the industry. Therefore, moving forward, we will continue to operate as an independent, family-owned company, and look forward to the opportunities this will bring.”

Company: Phoenix Contact Middle East FZ LLC Name: Iyad Madanat Email: info-me@phoenixcontact.com Web Address: www.phoenixcontact.ae Address: P.O. Box 345002 Dubai, U.A.E. Telephone: +971 4 43 70 324

With regards to the future, Iyad believes that the firm’s winning combination of strong client service and industry leading innovation will serve it well as Phoenix Contact looks to build upon its current success.

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Critical to Corporate South Africa mea Markets

Special Supplement African Legal 100 (South Africa) www.middleeast-markets.com

Legal

MJS: Critical to Corporate South Africa Mothle Jooma Sabdia Incorporated (MJS) was established in March 2001. As a truly progressive law firm, they have a burning desire to continue to offer specialised knowledge and unparalleled personalised service to clients.

ased in South Africa, Mothle Jooma Sabdia Inc (MJS) currently acts on behalf of various government departments, state owned companies, and listed as well as unlisted private companies.

order to ensure the sustainable development of future generations whilst also providing for the needs of those alive today.

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MJS will continue to focus on expanding our practice until we have attained an optimal balance when considering our size in relation to volumes of new instructions received, and the number of clients serviced.

Thipe Attwell Mothle the Chairman of MJS had this to say during our conversation with him.

Our clients are some of the largest, private government institutions in the country. As well as many types of law, our wide range of services include: - Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”), compliance and regulatory corporate finance, corporate governance, due diligence investigations, forensic investigation, international arbitration, multinational agreements and legislative drafting.

MJS is driven by the ambition to be at the pinnacle of the legal profession by remaining committed to the highest standards of service excellence.

We are resolute in our desire to maintain our status as a superior and diversified law firm within the South African legal fraternity, offering specialised knowledge and unsurpassed personal service, coupled with an unwavering emphasis on delivering a total value added product to our clients. Our commitment to our employees and their advancement irrespective of race, creed or background will remain unwavering.

Ultimately, we aim to offer leadership and creative thinking in all areas of the law, whilst simultaneously upholding the ethical standards of the profession and contributing to the positive development of the legal fraternity in South Africa and the African continent as a whole.

We echo the ambitions of the now historical Paris Agreement, (which heralded a new area of environmental management and respect) in that we will continue to strive towards the enhancement and actualization of our environmental policies in

Our ambition is to remain competitively priced whilst at the same time delivering a vastly superior and all-encompassing service to our clients. We are confident that our strategy to continuously enhance efficiencies will continue to eliminate any areas of weakness to be found within the firm. We focus on enhancing relationships with our clients in order to ensure optimal levels of communication are maintained at all times. Where appropriate, we encourage monthly “instruction and settlement meetings” between MJS personnel and our clients, as well as ensuring that quarterly visits by MJS directors are undertaken, in order to further develop lines of communication and complaint resolution mechanisms.

After plenty of success, the company does not have trouble staying motivated. Our finest accolade has been our clients’ faith in our ability, which has seen the firm develop beyond all expectations within the space of just fifteen years. We remain resolute in our quest to deliver unparalleled service excellence equitably, and in a cost effective manner. When MJS commenced business in 2001 each of the directors had been classified as “youth” as well as “new entrants” to the legal profession. It is this memory that continues to drive us in our initiatives to empower the future leaders of South Africa. During the 15 years of our existence, we are proud to state that we have previously trained 36 historically disadvantaged candidate attorneys (20 females), and are currently training ten newly qualified historical disadvantaged candidate attorneys (seven females).

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MJS has nurtured some key principles in order for us to be successful. The ability to attract a high calibre of employees at all levels, to enhance unity and create a shared vision across all employee levels, and to create a culture of vibrancy, dynamism and ambition are the reasons why our staff work well together. In addition, the implementation of exceptional structures, infrastructure and efficiencies throughout the firm and recognising the need for constant improvement are other principles which we have adhered to. Staff also benefit from an unparalleled work ethic across all employee levels and the implementation of skills development and empowerment strategies that have become such an integral part of our make-up. A final and important principle is the need for humanity and morality in all of our dealings with clients’, colleagues and employees.

We are of the humble belief that MJS has greatly contributed to the evolution of the South African legal landscape by challenging the hegemony of established role players in the industry, with the implementation of innovative practices aligned with cost effective yet exceptional service delivery.

The legal industry must remain mindful of the economic and political challenges that are becoming more prevalent across the globe. Africa remains particularly vulnerable to these challenges, and continues to be affected by low economic growth rates occasioned in part by the declining Chinese economy, Britain’s exit from the European Union and the American elections to name but a few.

MJS recognises that although we are considered amongst the market leaders in the South African legal industry by virtue of our superior human resources and reliance on the latest technology, if we do not adapt to these rapidly changing circumstances, all of our gains over the years can be rapidly diminished. Therefore, it is of paramount importance that we continue to provide sustainable and long-term skills to our employees and colleagues, in line with our overall vision of providing legal excellence across the spectrum.

MJS understands that embracing technology remains a cornerstone to continued and future legal excellence. We strive to deliver exceptional services as efficiently as possible, and encourage the implementation of electronic data interchanges with our clients.

All of our employees possess individual personal computers with broadband internet access facilitated by means of high speed optic fibre lines, thus ensuring that MJS is at all times in a position to deliver optimal services to our clients.

Our email and facsimile facilities are directed through a cloud security application which maintains the integrity of our records as well as enhancing security protocols. MJS utilises a time and application management system which is linked to our legal accounting software system, in order to ensure accurate and effective billing of our clients. The company also subscribes to a number of electronic software programmes and internet based applications which provides us with immediate access to the latest developments in South African and international law. Our network perimeter security was recently improved by the enhancement of our Intrusion Detection Firewall.

There are many reasons why we believe that MJS stands out from other companies in our sector.

Firstly, by continuing to embrace technology, we ensure that our objectives of service excellence are realized. Also, we uphold the firm ethos of empowering our employees and service providers and provide our staff with a challenging and creative workspace based on an entrenched culture of recognition and learning. Our knowledge and experience is vital when we are in comparison to competitors. We maintain service excellence at every contact throughout the firm.

In the future, we aim to maintain our excellent standards through enhancing our specialisation in a range of legal disciplines critical to corporate South Africa, offering leadership and creative thinking in each focus area. As well as this, we plan to enhance our ability to understand and to evolve within the context of the local and regional business environments, thereby allowing us to assist local clients in the pursuit of global objectives and foreign clients in the structuring and development of their local interests.

MJS is constantly striving to enhance the depth and spread of our services, by enhancing the skill set of existing employees as well as by the introduction of technical skills to the firm via strategic employment initiatives. Our medium term goal is to enter the Southern African market by establishing a presence in neighbouring countries, and thereafter, to move into North Africa and particularly into countries where South African multi-national companies have a presence.

Company: Mothle Jooma Sabdia Inc (MJS) Name: Hanlie Howe Email: hanliee@mjs-inc.co.za Web Address: www.mjs-inc.co.za Address: Ground Floor, Duncan Manor, Cnr Jan Shoba and Brook Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria Telephone: + 27 12 742 9400

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Legal

Bribery and Corruption in the UAE - Managing Bribery Investigations With investigations into alleged bribery and corruption becoming more prominent globally, it is increasingly important for organisations (no matter where they are based) to have in place robust procedures to respond to the emergence of allegations and to react to regulators and prosecuting agencies when they engage in such investigations. Winston & Strawn examines how UAE companies should remain compliant when faced with potential corruption investigations. ribery in the UAE In recent years, a number of international surveys and reports have benchmarked countries on the basis of their perceived levels of corruption. The UAE’s position, 23rd lowest of 168 countries, suggests that combating bribery and corruption are key areas on which organisations should focus.

Globally, increased perceived levels of bribery and corruption, coupled with emboldened prosecuting agencies using established (e.g. the US’s Foreign and Corrupt Practices Act 1977) and newer (the UK’s Bribery Act 2010) legislation have raised the importance of being properly prepared. In the UAE, enforcement of its established anticorruption laws has received a boost with the Abu Dhabi Executive Council announcing the establishment of a new Anti-Corruption Unit in May 2015.

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The Investigation Process It is not possible to map out every individual component of an investigation as each will have its own features depending on the nature, scope and jurisdictional spread of the alleged behaviour.

However, it is possible to identify the key phases for any investigation and to highlight some of the important issues to bear in mind.

Resources Notification of the bribery offence having been committed by an organisation in the UAE may take a number of forms including contact from the Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority (ADAA) and/or the Ministry of Justice (MOJ), or from an internal process e.g. internal whistleblowing, internal audit work or routine accounting checks.

Once notified, the UAE organisation should establish an internal management team tasked with the responsibility for managing the investigation.

That team should be small, separate, senior and independent (from the matters giving rise to the

bribery allegations) to ensure the team has the authority to get things done quickly and efficiently.

Depending on the size of the investigation, the team typically includes: legal; the head of the relevant business unit; a representative from the IT function; and a representative from human resources.

At this stage, consideration should be given to engaging external specialists, including forensic accountants, IT experts or even public relations teams (if necessary, in multiple jurisdictions). Complex factual investigations and legal analysis may need to be conducted quickly, making it likely that the organisation will engage external legal advisors.

The Internal Investigation At the first meeting of the management team, an internal team should be set up to investigate the alleged behaviour. This team will develop an investigation plan, building in flexibility to accommodate challenges to resources and timings as the work progresses. The key tasks and issues for the investigative team, which should be included in the plan, will include: Gathering and securing evidence – preserving all relevant, or potentially relevant, evidence relating to the alleged behaviour will be crucial, and is likely to be requested by the ADAA and/or the MOJ. Any gaps in evidence, either because the data was lost or destroyed, may impede the organisation’s own ability to understand what happened and could cause significant problems in subsequent associated litigation, or in further investigations by the regulators or prosecuting agencies; Data review – the management of the review process can be assisted using document management platforms to allow a proportionate, targeted and prioritised review.

Interviews – conducting interviews with relevant

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(both current and ex) employees and (possibly) external third parties should be planned. The timing of interviews should be considered carefully as, where the internal investigation is being conducted in parallel with investigations by regulators or prosecuting agencies, those regulators or agencies may object to certain witnesses being interviewed during an internal investigation.

Text by: Justin McClelland, partner, Winston & Strawn (London) and Bibi Sarraf-Yazdi (London). With input from partners Robb Adkins (Los Angeles) and Derek Andreson (Washington DC) of Winston & Strawn.

Employees – a challenging issue in any investigation is whether, and at what stage, to suspend employees who may have engaged in the bribery or corruption. Much will depend on the information available when the management team makes this decision and whether a suspension (or suspensions) would be deemed compliant with the disciplinary rules of the UAE Labor Law, Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, as amended.

Written report – it may be appropriate for the investigative team to prepare a written report which would typically include: a description of the nature and extent of the internal investigation; an overview of the factual findings; the conclusions reached; and the steps taken as a result of the factual findings, together with a list of future intended actions.

The Regulators and Prosecuting Agencies It will be important from the outset of an investigation to set a co-operative but firm tone with the ADAA, the MOJ, and other regulators and/or prosecuting agencies. Where the behaviour under investigation extends across more than one jurisdiction, the management team will need to take into account the possibility of having to self-report the behaviour which raises a number of challenging issues.

Associated Litigation Litigation associated with the (alleged or admitted) bribery and corruption may come from a number of potential sources and arise across different jurisdictions. To address associated litigation risks, the management team should formulate an initial defence strategy early in the investigation following an initial internal audit of the immediately available evidence. This enables the organisation to take a preliminary view on whether there is any evidential or legal foundation for potential allegations or for the matters being investigated.

With the increased likelihood of bribery and corruption allegations arising, having a plan to manage the myriad issues that they generate from initial emergence of the allegation will help UAE organisations in addressing these challenges efficiently and effectively.

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Legal

Attorneys, Notaries, Conveyancers African Legal 100 (South Africa)

Established in Boksburg in 1999, Marx & Marx Attorneys, Notaries and Conveyancers has gained an enviable reputation as a legal firm of integrity and excellence. It was founded on the principle that it would offer its client’s professional legal solutions that are flexible, innovative and financially efficient. combination of professional service together with a focus on achieving results, has earned Marx & Marx Attorneys the well-deserved reputation as the legal practitioners’ choice within the East Rand and Greater Johannesburg.

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The services which Marx Attorney’s offers includes: - magistrates court litigation, high court litigation, insurance law, commercial and corporate work, aviation, labour relations, property law, insolvency, liquidations and debt reviews, family law, credit recoveries, estates and criminal work. The firm delivers legal solutions to its clients by familiarising themselves with their needs and understanding their commercial and personal objectives. They strive to develop close working relationships with clients and are committed to succeed.

Marx Attorneys specialise in commercial and corporate law, and the department is headed by two partners (Mr. Melchior Marx and Mrs. Sunette Marx) and supporting staff. The Managing Partner Mr. Manuel J Marx unfortunately past away earlier this year, which was a great loss to the legal fraternity.

Specific emphasis is placed on negotiation, drafting and preparation of a wide variety of complexed commercial agreements. The firm attends to mergers and acquisitions, business rescue proceedings and the creation of inter vivos trusts is another of the services offered.

The firm has an active Magistrate’s Court practice, which undertakes work on behalf of insurance

companies and other commercial entities.

The firm has partners, qualified attorneys and candidate attorneys, each with extensive and valuable experience in this complex arena in the Magistrate’s Court department. Marx Attorneys have branch offices within the main business regions in South Africa and accept instructions to litigate in other provinces.

In addition, the firm has specialised in High Court litigation over a period of seven years. The head of this department concentrates solely on litigation.

Supported by professional assistants, candidate attorneys and paralegals this department is able to offer full litigation services ranging from personal injury claims through to banking law.

With nine years in insurance law under their belt, Marx Attorneys has built a strong reputation in this field. This is widened by the amount of national and international insurers and re-insurers among its clients. The firm has in-depth specialised experience in every facet of insurance law, including but not limited to investigative works and merit assessments, opinion on quantum as well as repudiations and passenger liability claims.

Insurance companies are result driven. Two staff members of the firm have worked in insurance and are well aware that insurance companies are result driven. Mr. Melchior Marx from of the firm has also obtained his diploma in insurance and has dealt with complicated matters i.e. Springbok Atlas claims

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on behalf of a reputable insurance company. They also have extensive knowledge of re-insurance and various aspects related thereto.

department also attends to the administration of deceased estates in an expeditious and cost effective a manner as possible.

Another speciality is Marx Attorneys expertise in property law. The firm is a stake holder in Velile Tinto and Associates Inc., who is the largest Black Owned Conveyance firm within the Republic of South Africa. Personal attention to both private and corporate client transactions is the hallmark of this department. Conventional properties and sectional title transactions will fall within the capabilities of this department. The firm also employs a qualified notary who is able to deal with all forms of notarial work. We are also listed on the panels of all major banks within South Africa.

In addition to the high quality services which Marx Attorneys offers, the firm also pride themselves in the fact that they are an equal opportunity employer. Consequently, the firm not only includes members of both genders, but is one of the most racially integrated practices within the East Rand.

The company has followed an aggressive affirmative action policy and they strive to employ members from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, whenever possible. The firm boasts four professionals and four members of support staff.

Marx Attorneys have built their reputation on their ability to provide professional solutions for clients.

It is their intention to uphold this tradition and to build on it. At the same time, the firm plans to continue developing resources and their people to ensure that they constantly remain at the cutting edge of the diverse legal services they offer to clients. It is for that reason that the company’s vision remains: - “honest, accurate, effective and innovative legal services combined with true values.”

The family law department is run by Mrs. Sunette Marx, recently returned to the firm after being employed as an additional magistrate in the Kempton Park Magistrates Court. The firm has the capability to deal with all aspects of family law, inter alia, divorces, custody and access matters. The specialists in this field has not only been selected for their thoroughness and insight, but also for their ability to give clients considered advise with sensitivity and understanding.

In keeping with the firm’s philosophy of developing a holistic solution to meet the needs of its private clients, the department provides expert advice in the drafting of wills, as well as estate planning.

Careful consideration is given to the preservation of wealth and growth, whilst attempting to minimise the impact of estate duty and capital gains tax. The

Company: Marx Attorneys Notaries and Conveyancers Name: Melchior Marx Email: mel@marxattorneys.co.za Web Address: www.marxattorneys.co.za Address: Eastlands Office Park, Nr 1 Bentel Road, Sanlam Building, First Floor, Jansen Park Ext. 10, Boksburg Telephone: 011 823 5835

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Marketing

Business Solutions with Synergy

Synergy provides clients with vital insight into the best way to start, run and grow successful businesses. Located in the Middle East, the company uses their vast experience and knowledge to achieve their success.

he Synergy Group specialises in providing corporate services for companies looking to either establish a commercial presence or relocate their existing business to the Middle East and wider GCC. Founded by successful C-level executives who have over 15 years of experience with company formation in the UAE and the Middle East, Synergy has thrived. An expert team of advisors provides services such as: - company formation, corporate structure advisory, partnership services, government liaison services and providing office solutions at their business centre.

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Synergy has become a leading business service provider in the MENA region with strategic offices in Dubai and London. The company provides an end to end solution taking into account every aspect of business establishment right through until securing an office of the clients’ choice, through to offering serviced office solutions at their business centre. We discuss Synergy’s success with the Managing Partner, Stuart Curtis.

“At Synergy, our focus is maintaining 100% transparency and providing tailor made solutions. Our strict adherence to customer service, quality control and our continuous investing in training sessions in order to keep our staff up-to-date with the best practices in the region as well as global.”

Due to the nature of the industry, Synergy works with a wide range of clients as Stuart explains. “Synergy can help guide clients looking to establish a presence in the UAE or GCC through the whole process from the initial application to final registration. Whether it is a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or another type of onshore business entity that requires a local partner, we can provide the right match for the business. We help businesses deal with an ever-changing regulatory environment to ensure all governmental transactions

are handled in the most efficient manner possible.

Also, we offer a range of consulting services; from helping start-ups and SMEs to supporting established companies looking to grow and enter new markets.”

At Synergy, the team ensures it adheres to several key principles in order to form a successful client partnership. These principles can be expressed in the following way: • Specialists in onshore and free zone business setup and company formation in the UAE. • Years of experience working with all types of businesses in the Middle East and internationally.

• Network of highly regarded partners with knowledge and contacts in all areas of business.

• Experience in all aspects of business improvement from planning and advisory to delivery.

• Reputation for excellence in providing services to both start-ups and multi nationals.

• Government procedure knowledge that helps expedite all aspects of company formation.

• Yes, we can help your business whether it is just setting up or moving into a new growth stage.

Stuart continues, outlining what the firm does on a day to day basis to be able to stand out from their competitors. “The Synergy Group helps clients in various ways. Corporate structuring offers everything you need when setting up, developing and growing your business. Some of the key areas we can help include business strategy consulting, corporate expansion, growing sales and revenues, business turnaround and change management, product development and life cycle management, business development and marketing strategy and new market entry.”

The IT department at Synergy ensures that its technology is compatible and updated from installation of new hardware devices, updated

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software packages, online payments, cyber security to government system databases. Stuart describes what Synergy has done to incorporate technology in their working environment.

“Our current technology is efficient and effective, enabling our staff to conduct work seamlessly and fast in any location. One technological trend which we have followed is the introduction of the Six Sigma process. This simply relates to a measure of quality that strives for near perfection. Six Sigma is a disciplined, data-driven approach and methodology for eliminating defects. The aim of this program is to improve our customers experience, lower costs and build better leaders.”

The Synergy Group expansion has led to state of the art business centres, offering fully furnished serviced offices in the prime location of Dubai’s business district. Entrepreneurs and established businesses alike now have a dynamic new space to call home, thanks to the launch of Synergy’s first business centre brand.

Officially named Synergy Smarter Office Solutions, the first offering under the innovative work space features twenty-seven fully furnished offices and modern meeting room. A prime multi-use location this business centre overlooks the buzzing Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa area and is in the heart of Business Bay. This thriving district is conveniently located within close proximity to Dubai International Airport, making it a perfect base for business.

“Synergy Smarter Office Solutions is second to none and thanks to its outstanding facilities, we know our project on creating business centres will be a huge success,” comments Stuart. “Synergy’s ethos is about “making better companies” and we have no doubt that this is the perfect environment for any business, from start-ups to established companies. It also offers affordable short and long-term serviced offices making it ideal for any company wanting to keep overheads low in this impressive space”.

A state of the art business centre with fully serviced office space, Synergy’s entrance at Bay Square is set to become a well sought after address for businesses in the city. Synergy Smarter Office Solutions enables around the clock access and professional support tailored to suit individual needs, offering everything a business needs in one dynamic space. Stuart highlights the rest of the company’s plans for the future.

“We are working on a project that will provide working environments for people who are self-employed, freelance, contracting or working for different employers. This will be a great way to collaborate on business ventures and network with others internationally, as well as being a highly cost effective way of accessing office space and support facilities on a short-term basis. In the Middle East, networking and

gaining local contacts can be even more important, as doing business here can differ from western countries.

Taking into account the brilliant platform the UAE has created for businesses both upcoming and new, we see ourselves developing further into being the preferred choice for entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike, creating a one stop shop for all their business related affairs. The newly launched Synergy Business Centre venture brings us one step closer to reaching that goal.”

Starting a business with Synergy Group could not be easier with comprehensive all-inclusive packages.

Thanks to Synergy’s dedicated team, individuals and companies will benefit from fast assistance on all legalities, from trade licenses, residency and employment visas to Ministry of Labour registration.

Company: Synergy Email: info@synergy-gulf.com Web Address: www.synergy-gulf.com Address: Synergy Smarter Office Solutions, 1st Floor Bay Square Building 3, Business Bay PO Box 33279 Dubai UAE Telephone: +971 4 5637300

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UAE Business Awards Recognised Leaders in Corporate Structuring

Marketing

Creative and Cost-Effective Communications UAE Business Awards - Best Independent Communications Consultancy Firm Established in 2004, Shamal Marketing Communications (SMC) is a leading independent, public relations consultancy based in Dubai. The firm effectively manages market perceptions by working hand-in-hand with its clients to build positive, informed opinion among their target audiences. We take a look at some of the things they offer clients. or twelve years, SMC has delivered strategic, focused, creative and cost-effective English-Arabic communications’ solutions, that enable its clients to successfully position their businesses and brands, as well as enhancing their visibility, in an increasingly crowded and highly competitive commercial environment.

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B2B specialists with over a decade of experience across different industry verticals, SMC customcreate effective communications strategies for both high profile corporate clients and new-to-market businesses. SMC works with specialist English and Arabic writers who have PR and journalistic backgrounds and leverages the strengths of their in-house professional resources to deliver results across traditional print media and broadcast channels as well as the fast-paced digital and social media arena.

In addition, SMC’s experienced team provides strategic advice for success around business critical issues, plans and projects, as well to public affairs campaigns and engagement with stakeholders and communities in addition to providing support for major bids.

The firm will manage all aspects of an event, whether it is participation at a major conference or industry seminar, through to product launches, exhibitions, press conferences or full onsite press office organisation. The SMC team can also take care of venue booking, set-up and on-site branding.

Company: Shamal Marketing Communications Email: shamal@smc-pr.com Web Address: www.smc-pr.com Address: Office 106, Arjaan Office Tower, Dubai, UAE Telephone: +971 4 365 2711

Another area of expertise is their consumer PR. A proven track record of success, keen insight into client motivations and an in-depth understanding of the regional markets in which we operate, is the basis for SMC’s expertise in the B2C arena. From new restaurant brands to healthcare services, we bring senior level strategic advisory capabilities and dynamic campaign strategies to the table; and are experienced in providing solutions throughout the entire communications spectrum, providing our clients with the quality assurance and the results they demand.

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Investment

A Quick Guide for Middle Eastern Companies Eying New Opportunities in Africa

By Andrea Carta Mantiglia, partner and member of the Africa Committee at BonelliErede. frica is undeniably the new frontier for globalisation. With average annual GDP growth of 4.4% and global consumption now hitting 4,000 billion dollars at the last count, the opportunities for investment are obvious, not least from companies originating from the Middle East.

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But what issues do Middle East investors need to be aware of before taking the plunge and exploring new ventures in Africa? Investment in any of Africa’s 54 states necessitates a cautionary outlook, to an extent, together with a certain degree of background knowledge before landing on the continent. We have recently opened two new offices in Africa, one in Cairo (Egypt) and one in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), so are close to the issues on the ground.

First of all, procurement is an important issue to consider. Taking Africa as a homogenous entity would be a significant error. In effect, there is more than one Africa. Each state has its own idiosyncrasies and particular focuses, as well as unique links with other countries across the globe. For instance, Middle East investors might find Ethiopia an attractive prospect not only for its huge domestic market, but also because it has duty and quota free market access to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

It also has duty and quota free market access to the European Union (EU) under the Everything but Arms (EBA) initiative. As for Egypt, a perk for foreign investors is that the country already has in place a number of free trade agreements and arrangements. Egypt is in fact party to the following agreements: World Trade Organization (WTO), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), Egypt-EFTA Agreement, EUEgypt Association Agreement and Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA).

In addition, when entering the African Continent, Middle East investors should double-check whether a one-stop-shop for investors is available in the selected countries. This is the case, among others, of Ethiopia, where the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) promotes the country’s investment opportunities and conditions to foreign and domestic investors.

Alongside procurement, trade agreements and one-stop-shops, legal issues should also be front of mind. Proper due diligence is essential when entering into agreements with agencies or a local distributor to conduct business in an African country. Moreover, it is crucial to cast an attentive eye over these kinds of agreements with regards to their terms and duration, alongside assessing whether they include compensation in case of termination. On the other hand, if a Middle East investor is looking to set up a business of their own on the continent they should consider the extent of the powers that they are handing over to a local manager and the scope of the manager’s operations.

This will enable and empower them to properly represent the business in the country, while keeping a constant check on operational activity.

But if relationships do not work out as anticipated, legal disputes can become inevitable, and using international arbitration if the disputes do escalate is an important step. Investors should structure their operations so that they can safeguard their rights without having to turn to the local courts to get the right solution. Arbitration should be considered, therefore, as an effective alternative for the parties involved.

It is an exciting time for Middle East companies to invest in Africa as the economic boom continues to sweep the continent. With appropriate consideration of where the opportunities lie and the legal detail behind any investment, the opportunities are there to be captured.

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Hospitality

Affordable Luxury UAE Business Awards (Best 5* Hotel)

Royal Rose, the first 5-star property from City Seasons Hotels Group and its flagship property in Abu Dhabi, represents splendour and grandeur. Built in a style resembling a 17th century French palace, Royal Rose features 355 well-appointed luxury rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meetings rooms, signature restaurant and dining outlets, a fully equipped Health Club, swimming pool and a full service spa. trategically situated in the business district of Abu Dhabi, Royal Rose is ideal for business and leisure travelers alike. The hotel is within walking distance from the business hub, government institutions, shopping malls and other leisure facilities.

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The hotel was built in a royalty style with walls overlaid in intricate gold-leaf designs, decorated with plush furnishings and accented with ornate chandeliers.

Elegance and refinement interiors are reflected in each and every level of the 19-storey building.

To ensure unsurpassed comfort, the rooms at Royal Rose are spacious, with sizes from 35sqm (Deluxe Rooms) to 61sqm (Luxury Suites). The ambience of the room will make guests feel “royal”, with high quality beds and pillows to ensure utmost sleeping comfort and an en-suite bathroom featuring a bathtub, walk-in shower and large variety of high brand bathroom amenities.

The four Rose Suites, a larger version of the Luxury Suites, with size of 71sqm are located only on 15th & 16th floor and feature a spacious balcony. Guests staying in this suite will have access to the Executive and the Royal Lounges and will enjoy a wide range of exclusive services and facilities, including Butler Service and the Hotel’s VIP Limo Transfers.

The Royal Rose is host to a variety of restaurants to

cater to every taste and occasion. The Brasserie Café, set in an open space on the lobby upper level is ideal for an informal meeting or to simply catch up with friends. The Printania is an all-day dining restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Barocco, serving European cuisine is located on the ‘upper lobby’ level and is set against the backdrop of an elegant and inviting French Baroque ambiance.

State-of-the-art board rooms with subtle service from highly trained staff and a Grand Ballroom for up to 300 guests make Royal Rose the perfect venue for bespoke events, lavish weddings and elegant parties.

At Royal Rose, health and fitness go hand in hand with holiday and leisure. The Hotel’s rooftop is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of every day’s life. The entire floor is exclusively dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation.

A fully equipped gymnasium offers the latest in cardio equipment and free weights. Qualified instructors and personal trainers are available to assist guests with fitness advice and coaching. An exclusive fitness room has been designated for ladies only, where they can attend personal fitness classes, for optimum results.

La Piscine, the pool is located on the rooftop of the hotel with spectacular open-sky views and temperaturecontrolled water for a relaxed use in all weathers. The sundeck has easy loungers for lazy sun-tanning. For

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a refreshing break, guests can enjoy a quick dip in the pool or just relax on the sun deck where healthy refreshments and snacks can be served.

An adjacent shaded children pool is the perfect attraction for young ones. Lockers, Jacuzzi and steam room are available for a complete relaxing experience.

Alba Spa, a true haven for spa-goers, is divided into two separate entities for ladies and gents. With its elegant interiors paired with a holistic treatment menu and subtle service, Alba Spa offers all what is needed for relaxation and a stress-free time. Treatments are carried out by highly trained professionals, using worldrenowned cosmetic brands. It offers individual sessions as well as packages for residents and guests. A treatment at Alba Spa will leave you with relaxed muscles and a glowing skin.

Other services include a Ladies Salon, Clefs d’Or Concierge, Business Center, Travel Desk and underground car park with valet service.

The Abu Dhabi Corniche and promenade, with its range of outdoor cafes and a long beach stretch with water-sport options, is a mere five-minute drive away.

The traditional souq (market) market, the Abu Dhabi Fort and countless other points of interest are within easy reach. Abu Dhabi introduces new family-friendly facilities like Yas Parks, plus the city is very safe and family-oriented, and has a lot to offer in terms of pristine beaches and outdoor entertainment.

The hotel largely serves international travellers, mainly from Europe and Asia, which make up around 60% of the Royal Rose guests.

Company: Royal Rose Hotel Name: George Demitry Email: george.demitry@royalrosehotel.com Address: 1025 Sheikh Zayed the First St., Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Telephone: +971 2 588 9800

General Manager of Royal Rose Hotel, George Demitry, discusses how the hotel has managed the challenges in a competitive industry. “Despite a very tough competition due to a continuous increase in supply, we have managed to maintain over 5 % higher occupancy than last year, certainly there has been a pressure on rates but we believe on the longer term there are opportunities in new feeder markets and subsequently a potential for further diversity of source markets which will partially offset the decline in from traditional feeder markets and business travel.

Highly committed to customer service and attention to detail, City Seasons Hotels have already built a strong reputation amongst international travelers and mainly visitors from GCC countries who enjoy the family atmosphere of the Hotels and Suites as well as their prime location in the heart of the city. The Group currently boasts 1554 rooms.

The hotel has won various Excellence and Recognition awards from different online review platforms. This proves the hotels commitment to service excellence, innovative food and beverage offerings as well as SPA and wellness programs.

George discusses the hotels future plans which will include introducing ladies floor with privet executive lounge, back in time slow cooking concept inspired by the 17th century European cuisines is currently featured at Barocco Restaurant. At the drawing table an outdoor poolside café featuring traditional oriental beverages and grills, Alba SPA and health club will soon be launching bundle packages of skin and body wellness treatments.

About City Seasons Group of Hotels Established in UAE in 2005, City Seasons Hotels currently owns and operates 7 properties in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai and Muscat.

Founded by Sheikh Ahmed Musallam Bin Ham, City Seasons Hotels commenced its journey in 2005 with City Seasons Suites in Dubai. The owners’ ambition was to establish hotels that are elegant and stylish yet cozy with a focus on quality, luxury and great value.

Today, City Seasons Group of Hotels counts six 4-star properties in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain and Muscat, with their first 5-star hotel, The Royal Rose in Abu Dhabi.

Further expansions abroad are underway to double the portfolio of the group by 2020.

With its commitment to offer ‘affordable luxury’, City Seasons Hotels have established as one of UAE’s leading hotel brands.

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Hospitality

Global Retail Brand Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The company caters to thousands of eager shoppers through its more than 1450+ stores, and 75 brands across all platforms employing 12,000 multicultural staff covering four continents. We look at the journey that Mr. Nilesh Ved has taken to achieve success in the Middle East. ith over 1450+ stores and more than 75 international brands to boast about and racing to 1500 stores by the end of 2016, the Apparel Group, under the patriarch of the Mr. Nilesh Ved, had a rather modest start. Commencing its operation with just one brand in 1999, Mr. Ved was just rearing to gather momentum in the Retail industry.

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Setting a strong foothold in the Gulf, the Apparel Group has crossed the regional boundaries and embarked in the global market.

In 1999, now one of the leading fashion retailers in this part of the world, Mr. Ved initiated his successful journey with three stores of Ninewest - a U.S. brand with its first exclusive store in Lamcy Plaza. The success brought by the launch of a few stores allowed a clear understanding of the retail market apparent in the Gulf, thus allowing Mr. Ved to concentrate on his business strategy of further introducing new labels and expanding his reach to the consumer. Mr. Ved belongs to a family of successful entrepreneurs and businessmen, with close relatives running the largest gold bullion trading in Dubai since 1904. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the prestigious Boston University.

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Since his early days, Mr. Ved was highly influenced by the North American retail environment and had a dream to bring in trendy fashion brands of the West to the Middle East, which seemed to be a promising market for retail. He is known for his pace of work and high leadership skills with which he drives everyone towards the organizational goals.

The company’s CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Policy is committed to enhance “SPEED”.

• S for Service - To adopt a corporate strategy that empowers us to serve the needs of the

society around us besides providing the best in industry service to the customers and to create a mutually benefiting environment through collective endeavour of company, employees, customers and community.

P for Productivity - To support and incorporate development initiatives/CSR projects an integral part of our business and make them result oriented. To encourage the development of human resource through provision for education, training and skill development to empower them and be productive.

E for Efficiency - To have partnership with various institutions/stakeholders for CSR programmes implementation and to assess and measure the effectiveness of the projects against the performance indicators and the targets set.

E for Effectiveness - To implement social initiatives in our areas of operations to ensure maximum efficiency through close monitoring and achieving benchmarks set for Triple Bottom Line.

D for Dedication/Commitment - To dedicate and commit our CSR initiatives towards national agenda on sustainable development and growth through adoption of best practices across all our brands, supply chains, distribution channels, vendors and suppliers and community development programmes. To encourage and motivate our employees to fully embrace the CSR programmes, champion social causes and support the company in its responsibility and accountability to the community in which it operates.

As well as ensuring the CSR policy is followed, Mr. Ved explains that the company’s vision is to make a difference to the lives of consumers and help enhance the society in which we live in.

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create a better place to live in. We believe that our compassionate actions will build sustainable society for future generations.”

Apparel Group has carved its strong presence not only in the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Saudi Arabia but opened thriving gateways to market in India, South Africa, Poland, Singapore, Jordan, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia.

Additionally, clear strategies are in place to enter emerging markets such as Hungary, Pakistan, Egypt and Philippines.

Apparel Group operates brands from around the world, originating from USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, Asia and include leading names in fashion, footwear and lifestyle such as Tommy Hilfiger, Juicy Couture, Nautica, Aldo, Nine West, Aeropostale to name a few and other key brands include Tim Hortons, Cold Stone Creamery, Inglot, Rituals etc.

“There are many ways to measure a company’s success. However, a truly successful company is one that return some of its rewards to the communities in which it operates and give back to society. Apparel Group strongly believes that as a large organisation, we can make a difference in people’s lives by providing education, engaging with communities and helping to protect the environment. It is my hope that we can set an example to other companies by demonstrating that these contributions to society will actually

The firm owes its amazing growth to the vision and guidance of its dynamic chairman, Nilesh Ved, who has taken the company from strength to strength since its inception in the last two decades.

Company: Apparel Group Name: Mr. Nilesh Ved Email: info@appareluae.com Web Address: www.appareluae.com Address: Jebel Ali South, Dubai, UAE, P.O.BOX: 261873 Telephone: +971 48136111

Leadership Elite Representative for UAE

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Deals

MediaCom and indaHash Introduce South Africa to a New Influencer Marketing Approach Following successful launches in countries such as Poland, Germany and the UK, South Africa will be another market that will benefit from indaHash’s unique ability to automate collaboration between brands and digital influencers. ediacom and indaHash have launched their first joint campaign in South Africa this month. The campaign, executed on behalf of Revlon, marks the beginning of an exclusive, strategic South African partnership between MediaCom’s content division, MediaCom Beyond Advertising (MBA), and indaHash. Due to the fact that indaHash will be exclusively distributed through MediaCom in South Africa, all agencies and advertisers have the opportunity to utilise this unique technology through the MBA division.

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With an international platform that is fully automated, indaHash revolutionises the process of collaboration between brands and digital influencers. It was established at the beginning of 2016 and has since gathered over 65 000 influencers, steadily captured new markets, and executed more than 200 campaigns for some of the world’s biggest brands, such as Coca-Cola, P&G, McDonald’s, and L’Oréal.

A ground-breaking digital partnership As a new strategic partner of MediaCom, one of the largest content and media agencies worldwide, indaHash will be made available to all MediaCom clients, as well as other agencies in South Africa that wish to use the platform for their own client campaigns.

Federico Dedeu, Head of MediaCom Beyond Advertising – which is the MediaCom division that will be working with indaHash the most frequently – says that the company is very excited to be partnering with indaHash, as it’s going to revolutionise the way brands are able to work with influencers.

“We have been consistently seeing the true value of this marketing method,” continues Mr. Dedeu.

“The technology enables brands to easily work with 1 or 100 influencers at a time, as it manages the contracts and the different payment models.

This means that budgets can work harder than ever before. Over and above this, brands retain the rights to the assets created by the influencers, which have real production cost savings.”

Setting the momentum for great digital moments Joanna Pawluk, Managing Partner at indaHash, says that in the case of South Africa, indaHash decided to enter the market with a different business model. “Instead of building a local team,” Ms. Pawluk explains, “we decided on a strategic partnership with MediaCom. As indaHash, we are delivering the technology on a daily basis that is used successfully by some of the biggest agencies and media houses worldwide.

We are happy that, together with MediaCom, we will now be able to deliver the best campaigns involving influencers in South Africa.”

The first campaign in South Africa will involve the marketing of Revlon’s Great Moments competition. The influencers were asked, through the indaHash app, to select one of the prize holidays, take a photo of the indispensable items they would take along for an expedition, and add Revlon deodorant to the picture. Additionally, influencers will tell their followers about the competition and encourage them to participate.

The competition runs until October 31st.

For indaHash, Joanna Pawluk will be responsible for the development and launch of the platform in the South African market, while Mediacom Beyond Advertising will be represented by Federico Dedeu.

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Telemisis and Jabil Inala Announce Strategic Partnership Jabil Inala to resell Telemisis SiteNode 3G as part of an updated site monitoring platform. elemisis, an industry leading provider of remote monitoring and control solutions for industrial and telecommunications applications, has announced a strategic partnership with Jabil Inala. Jabil Inala will resell the Telemisis SiteNode 3G, as part of their updated site monitoring platform for African telecommunications site operators.

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Howard Early, Managing Director, Jabil Inala, said “We’ve joined forces with Telemisis, a venture which we’re very excited about. The venture will see Jabil Inala incorporating Telemisis’ SiteNode controller, an ultra-low-power remote telemetry node into the Inala site monitoring platform.”

About Telemisis Telemisis designs and manufactures advanced remote monitoring and control solutions for all business sectors. Telemisis has extensive experience in remote site equipment management solutions, including power source optimisation and control. The Telemisis team has over 100 years combined experience in end-to-end solutions delivered to the generator, industrial and telecommunications sectors.

Web address: www.telemisis.com

“The agreement with Jabil Inala re-enforces SiteNode’s reputation as the industry’s leading remote telemetry unit, with unrivalled reliability and connectivity”, said Tony Richardson, Managing Director, Telemisis, “Outside this agreement Telemisis will continue to invest in and develop SitePro, our own remote monitoring and control solution, which continues to be available for use in all markets and industry sectors.”

Retaining the size and weight of earlier generations of SiteNode, SiteNode 3G is the most advanced remote telemetry unit developed and manufactured

by Telemisis to date, taking end-to-end system reliability to new heights and significantly expanding control and monitoring options at the remote asset. With 3G support customers have access to enhanced communications flexibility along with piece of mind.

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Confidence in your supply chain

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