Business Enquirer Magazine | Issue 110 | February 2023

SUSTAINABILITY IN ITS DNA

MULBERRY: CRAFTING LUXURY TO LAST

MEDIA FINANCE

Jamie Waite Partner & Creative Director jamie.waite@busenq.com

John Wilson Partner & President john.wilson@busenq.com

Charlotte Rope Project Director charlotte.rope@busenq.com

Thyra Ncube Project Director thyra.ncube@busenq.com

Glen Newton Senior Project Director glen.newton@busenq.com

Gary Smith Senior Project Director gary.smith@busenq.com

Lee Pheonix Project Director lee.pheonix@busenq.com

Laura Pye Project Director laura.pye@busenq.com

David Calaz Project Director david.calaz@busenq.com

Julia Brett Project Director julia.brett@busenq.com

Chrissy Jones Project Director chrissy.jones@busenq.com

Matthew Ward Project Director matthew.ward@busenq.com

Ben Saunders

Head of Business Acquisition

Claire Dunn Global Credit Controller claire.dunn@busenq.com

Bethany Waite Credit Controller bethany.waite@busenq.com

Tanya Rudd Head of Finance tanya.rudd@busenq.com

Kim Pearson Global Head of Accounts kim.pearson@busenq.com

DATA ANALYSIS

Kumar Nil-Khan Senior Data Strategy kumar.nilkhan@busenq.com

EDITORIAL

Laura Watling Editor in Chief laura.watling@busenq.com

Carol Gibson Lead Editor carol.gibson@busenq.com

Charlotte Billig Senior Editor charlotte.billig@busenq.com

Rebecca Matthews

Senior Journalist rebecca.matthews@busenq.com

PRODUCTION

Roisin Reynolds Head of Production roisin.reynolds@busenq.com

Cheraleigh Van Zanten Production Manager cheraleigh.vanzanten@busenq.com

SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM

Simon Ferrening Production Manager Commercial Performance Analysis Anita Terrell Social Media Manager anita.terrell@busenq.com

Lee Dixon Social Media Manager lee.dixon@busenq.com

Susan Tumelty HR Partnered Company info@hrdept.co.uk

Chloe Bird

Jamie Bolton Head of Design jamie.bolton@busenq.com

Adam Fulwood Head of Video & Content Creation adam.fulwood@busenq.com

Matt Hardwick Online Website Manager matt.hardwick@busenq.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Didie Nturo Lead Photographer didie.nturo@busenq.com

A WORD FROM OUR EDITOR

Firstly, I would like to welcome you to this issue by wishing a Happy and Prosperous New Year to our readers.

In keeping with the “new year, new me” spirit, you may notice that Business Enquirer has stepped into 2023 with a new style. The refreshed, bolder and brighter look of the magazine perfectly reflects the exciting and innovative businesses we feature.

It’s an honour to open the year with our cover feature, Mulberry. The iconic British luxury lifestyle brand is leading its industry to a more sustainable future. Speaking with CEO Thierry Andrietta, we discussed Mulberry’s various initiatives and the launch of Carbon Neutral Lily.

This issue, we also visit one of the world’s fashion capitals - Milan. Recent investment has seen radical transformation of the city,

Laura Watling Editor in Chief

making it a destination of choice for both business travelers and holiday makers.

And, as we enter another year with reduced (or no) Covid restrictions, holidays are back on the cards for those that enjoy exploring the world’s oceans and coastlines. Although the cruise sector is still in a period of recovery, the future is looking optimistic. We discuss this further with one of the world’s leading marine outfitters - MJM Marine.

Despite global growth expected to slow in 2023, Business Enquirer’s conversations with world-leading businesses have been ones filled with optimism.

Here’s to the year ahead!

SEARCHES FOR HARRY’S BOOK “SPARE” SKYROCKET

Searches for 'Order Spare' skyrocket 226% after explosive excerpts from Prince Harry's tell-all book are revealed.

Analysis of Google search data reveals that online searches for ‘Order Spare’ exploded 226% worldwide on the 5th of January, after excerpts of Prince Harry's upcoming book Spare were released.

A new finding by celebrity news site CelebTattler reveals that online searches for ‘Order Spare’ skyrocketed to over double the average volume in one day, an unprecedented spike in people seeking to order the Duke of Sussex's highly anticipated autobiography, according to analysis of Google search data. The rise in interest to purchase the book comes after a series of clips from interviews with Anderson Cooper and Tom Bradby were shared online ahead as well as excerpts being released, revealing

Prince William 'physically attacked' his brother in Nottingham Cottage.

A spokesperson for CelebTattler commented on the findings:

“Ever since the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped down from working Royal life, they have been incredibly selective about the ways in which they share personal information, from a sit down interview with TV magnate Oprah Winfrey or a Netflix series.

However, these findings highlight that this autobiography from Prince Harry is set to be one of the most highly anticipated projects from the couple with people from all around the world seeking to buy a copy for themselves. It will be interesting to see how much more the Prince shares in the book about his departure as a working royal.”

INSTAGRAM RICH LIST, JENNA ORTEGA EARNING UP TO £98K PER SPONSORED POST

Jenna Ortega is the most influential on Wednesday, earning up to £98,072 per sponsored social media post after gaining over 26 million new followers since the launch of Netflix’s hit show. Emma Myers and Catherine Zeta-Jones are the second and third most influential stars, earning up to £23k and £13k per sponsored post, respectively.

The cast has gained millions of new followers since Wednesday’s Netflix premiere. New data reveals that Jenna Ortega is the highest-earning star from Wednesday, potentially earning up to £98,072 per sponsored Instagram post.

Research conducted by NewCasinos examined the social media profiles of the cast of Netflix’s Wednesday and influencer marketing calculators to establish which star is the most influential on social media and how much they can earn per sponsored post.

The research revealed that Jenna Ortega, who plays Wednesday Addams, is the highest-earning star from the new Netflix horror comedy hit series. The 20-year-old actress has an Instagram following of over 35.6 million, which allows her to earn up to £98,072 per sponsored Instagram post, and has the highest follower count and potential Instagram earnings than the rest of the star-studded cast combined. Since the star rose to fame on Wednesday, Jenna has gained over 26 million new Instagram followers since the show's Netflix debut on

Credit: NETFLIX

23rd November, an average gain of over 620,000 new followers every day.

Emma Myers is the second-highestearning influencer on Wednesday. The actress, who plays roommate and best friend of Wednesday Addams, Enid Sinclair, has the second-highest following of 9.1 million, allowing her to earn a potential of up to £23,468 per sponsored post. Emma gained the second-highest number of new Instagram fans, with 8.4 million new followers, or around 200,000 new followers per day, since the show’s launch.

Catherine Zeta-Jones, who plays Morticia Addams, can earn up to £13,483 per sponsored post, making her the thirdhighest-earning star of Wednesday. The Oscar-winning actress has over 4.9 million Instagram followers, the third highest of the cast. With over 635,000 new Instagram followers, she has gained the lowest percentage of new followers out of the top ten earners since the show’s launch.

The fourth highest social media earner is Percy Hynes White. Percy can expect to earn up to £13,483 per sponsored post due to his 4.9 million followers. Percy has one of the biggest social media percentage gains out of the whole cast, getting over nine in ten of his current Instagram following after Wednesday's release, at a rate of over 110,000 new followers per day.

Hunter Doohan plays Tyler Galpin and is the sixth most influential Wednesday cast member. Tyler is followed by over 3.8 million fans on Instagram, meaning he can earn an average of £7,912 per sponsored Instagram post on these followers alone. Hunter has the most interactive fans out of any other cast member, including the show's star actress Jenna Ortega, with an engagement rate of 28.67%.

Gwendoline Christie, potentially earning up to £7,912 per sponsored Instagram post. The estimated earnings are from her 3.1 million followers, thanks to her role as Brienne of Tarth in Game of Thrones. Gwendoline has gained less than a third of her current Instagram since her on-screen performance as Principal Larissa Weems,

one of the lowest growth rates out of the top ten.

Christina Ricci, aka Marilyn Thornhill, and one of the original Wednesday Addams actresses, ranks seventh, earning up £4,148 per sponsored post on Instagram. These earnings are due to a following of over 1.5 million. Over two-fifths of her Instagram follower count came since Wednesday’s Netflix debut.

Georgie Farmer, who plays Nevermore student and Enid Sinclair’s boyfriend Ajax Petropolus, is the eighth most influential star. With over 1.2 million Instagram followers and an engagement rate of 14.33%, Georgie could earn up to £3,843 per sponsored post.

The ninth most influential is Joy Sunday, with an Instagram following of over one million. Based on her follower count, she can earn up to £3,538 per sponsored post. Joy has gained over 980,000 new followers, making it the largest social media percentage gains from Wednesday out of any other person in the top ten.

Actor and comedian Fred Armisen is the tenth most influential cast member. Fred, who plays Uncle Fester in the show, can earn an estimated £2,336 per sponsored post with his 571,000 Instagram followers. He has the lowest engagement rate in the top ten at 1.13%.

A spokesperson for NewCasinos commented on the findings: “With the success of Netflix’s smash hit Wednesday, this study explores the earnings of the cast to reveal how much they can earn outside of our screens since the release of the series has seen their social media followings skyrocket.

Wednesday is now one of the mostwatched Netflix shows, with over threequarters of a billion hours viewed in the first three weeks. Its popularity has led to a social media boom for each cast member, suggesting that the stars will keep seeing their online following grow, which will lead to more opportunities outside the TV show”. www.newcasinos.com

ASICS STUDY SHOWS EXERCISE HAS THE POWER TO SHARPEN EVEN THE BRIGHTEST MINDS

ASICS reveals exercise can significantly improve cognitive function and advance mental performance. From boosting short-term memory to increasing concentration levels, exercise enhances brain power and could be the solution to helping us pass exams or excel at work.

In a unique experiment, ASICS invited competitive gamers from around the world, specialising in mind games such as Chess and Esports and who rely on their cognitive function, to start an exercise programme. After four months of regular exercise, their minds were significantly sharpened and they performed at an even higher competitive level.

Participants’ international gaming rankings improved by an incredible 75% proving, yet again, the close interplay

between our mind and body. The mind gamers’ cognitive function was boosted on average by 10%, with problem solving abilities improving by 9%, short-term memory increasing by 12% and processing speed and alertness improving by 10%. Group confidence levels increased by 44%, concentration improved by 33% and anxiety levels plummeted by 43%. The research shows exercise can be as effective at boosting brain function as learning a second language, daily reading, playing a

In a ground-breaking global study, inactive gamers who increased exercise levels saw their cognitive function, wellbeing and gaming performance dramatically improve. Could exercise be the key to boosting brain power?

Kassa

new musical instrument or completing a puzzle every day.[i]

Professor Brendon Stubbs, a renowned researcher in movement and the mind, developed and led the experiment. Each gamer followed a training programme designed by runner turned international coach, Andrew Kastor. The programme included medium impact cardio and strength training and increased the gamers exercise levels to 150 minutes a week. Professor Stubbs measured the mental improvement of the participants based on their performance in their mind games, cognitive tests and wellbeing questionnaires over the course of their four-month research period.

Commenting on the results, Professor Brendon Stubbs said: “We all know that exercise is good for our mental and physical health but the impact on cognitive functioning has been less explored. We wanted to examine the effects of exercise on people who depend on their cognitive abilities - competitive mind gamers. Our results show significant improvements in their cognitive functioning, including concentration levels and problem-solving abilities.

“Exercise stimulates cell growth in the brain and rapidly increases blood flow to the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, mechanisms that enable us to better retain memories, process information and problem solve quickly. If exercise can significantly increase the mental performance of professional mind gamers, imagine what it could do for the rest of us. From increasing focus when revising for an exam or improving alertness before a work presentation, exercise truly can enhance brain power.”

As well as showing that exercise improved the participants cognitive function and gaming capabilities, Professor Stubbs also found that the gamers’ mental wellbeing was significantly uplifted, with average State of Mind scores improving by 31%.

[ii] The gamers’ average state of mind score at the start of the study was a below average 58 and at the end it was a high

Ben

[ii] ASICS proprietary State of Mind score is a rating out of 100 made up of 10 emotional and cognitive metrics, including: composure, resilience, positivity, contentment, relaxation, confidence, alertness, calmness, focus and energy.

[iii] After four months the groups state of mind score increased into the top 10% globally.

Sherry

76[iii], demonstrating the significant impact exercise can also have on your mental wellbeing.

The study’s Head Coach, Andrew Kastor, who developed the gamers’ training programmes, stated: “These results are astonishing and speak to the power of exercise. Many of the gamers couldn’t jog for longer than a minute at the start of the study, so their training programmes had to be moderate. 150 minutes a week sounds a lot but when you break it down this could be 5 sets of 30 minutes. No matter your fitness levels, the mental benefits of exercise are accessible to all.”

Inspired by the experiment, a camera crew followed four competitive gamers as they took on regular exercise to improve their rankings on the international stage. The result was a new groundbreaking documentary ‘Mind Games – The Experiment’, narrated by the internationally acclaimed actor, and mental health campaigner, Stephen Fry. Now available to stream on Prime Video, the feature length film documents the journeys of four gamers – Kassa Korley, Ryoei Hirano, Ben Pridmore and Sherry Nhan – who specialise in Chess, Mahjong, Memory and Esports as they compete in professional tournaments around the world. Watch the documentary trailer here.

Gary Raucher, EVP, ASICS EMEA said:

“Our founding philosophy is literally in our name, Anima Sana In Corpore Sano or a Sound Mind in a Sound Body. We have always encouraged utilising exercise for both physical and mental benefits, but this is the first time we have explored the true impact on cognitive functioning. Mind Games – The Experiment shows the power of exercise to sharpen the mind and we hope that after watching the documentary, everyone (regardless of their age, body type or fitness level) is inspired to move to help boost their brain.”

Mind Games - The Experiment is available to stream on Prime Video from 19th January 2023.

Asics Mind Games panel event

CANADA IS PUTTING DOWN ROOTS IN PLANT-BASED PROTEINS

People around the world are increasingly searching for alternatives to animalbased proteins. Globally, the alternative protein market is projected to grow from 13 million metric tons of consumption per annum to 97 million metric tons by 2035, worth USD $290bn.

Many of those products will derive their protein from pulses such as beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils, which are packed with nutrients and cheap to produce.

As the world’s largest exporter of pulses, Canada has a natural leading role to play in this market.

The raw materials

The demand for plant-based proteins is driven by three things, says Christine Lewington, CEO of PIP International: “A healthier diet, a growing population, and a focus on sustainably produced food.”

PIP International embodies the mix of raw materials, innovation, and sustainability that characterizes the Canadian alternative proteins sector. The Alberta-based company recently opened a pilot facility to produce its Ultimate Pea Protein (UP.P™), a pea protein isolate for use in downstream food products. Lewington claims it is the first product of its kind to overcome the bitter taste of earlier pea protein isolates, offering a neutral base on which to create any flavor profile. Having proven the concept, her company is constructing the largest pea processing commercial facility, able to

process 136,000 MT of peas annually and due to come online in 2024.

PIP’s CEO, Christine Lewington stated, “We are excited to be the first company to use the HyFi ILO marketplace in an effort to raise significant non-dilutive funds for PIP’s large capital fund raising demands.”

Troy MacDonald, HyFi Corp. CEO stated,

“We are excited to enter into these various agreements with PIP as we are strong believers in plant-based proteins and believe this is only the beginning of major business dealings and initiatives together.”

PIP International’s focus on peas is logical. Canada is the world’s largest producer of peas and lentils. “And most of them are grown for animal feed,” says Lewington. “So, there’s a real opportunity to add value.”

Crucial for a market driven by sustainability concerns, peas have another advantage, too: Their low environmental impact.

Sustainable production

“Yellow peas are a natural environmental steward,” says Lewington. “They’re nitrogen-fixing [generating nitrogen in symbiosis with bacteria, rather than requiring fertilizer]. They’re non-GMO. And they’re packed with protein.”

Coupled with the short distance between pea and production, these qualities make peas one of the most environmentally friendly sources of protein to farm. And PIP International is working hard to reduce the environmental impact of processing the crop.

Canada’s electricity grid is already 83% non-emitting. But drawing on Lewington’s previous experience in the solar industry, PIP International’s upcoming facility will be primarily powered by its own 17-megawatt solar farm and be net zero electrically. Additionally, by implementing cutting edge thermal and hydrogen innovations the entire facility will be net zero. It will also combine a suite of novel changes to the food industry processes to reduce water use by a minimum of 30% compared to in standard protein extraction processes.

Once opened, the plant will join a growing ecosystem producing alternative proteins in the Canadian Prairies.

The world’s largest pea protein plant

The world’s largest pea protein plant stands in Manitoba. Production began in 2021 and it marked a major expansion for French plant-based ingredients giant Roquette

The facility is uniquely suited to meeting the growing demand for sustainably produced plant-based protein. With halal, kosher and organic certifications, the new production plant supports a wide variety of diets. Roquette is currently the largest plant protein

PARTNER UPDATES

PIP’s CEO, Christine Lewington

producer in the world, and the only one with facilities on both sides of the Atlantic.

Speaking in 2020, Dominique Baumann, Managing Director of Roquette Canada, explained the plant is part of the company’s mission to help feed a growing global population, sustainably. An estimated 60% increase in food production is needed by 2050.

“Our purpose at Roquette is really to help in taking on this challenge and we think that plant-based proteins are one of the answers because pulses and peas are using much less water and are generating less carbon dioxide,” said Baumann.

The company recently launched a new range of organic pea protein and starch products, expanding an already impressive plant-based portfolio.

Fertile ground for alternative proteins

With its foothold established in Canada, Roquette has become an active contributor to the country’s alternative proteins ecosystem, including participation in four Protein Industries Canada (PIC) projects. PIC is the agency tasked with stimulating Canada’s plantbased proteins industry.

As one of the country’s five Global

Innovation Clusters, PIC works to accelerate innovation in plant-based protein. Its portfolio spans nearly half a billion dollars (CAD) in innovative R&D projects.

Aside from allocating direct funding, PIC supports envelope-pushing companies by facilitating industry partnerships and opening doors to other investment opportunities. In doing so, it creates a structure that both mitigates risk and supports bold initiatives for creating new ingredients and food products.

The right ingredients

Canada has all the ingredients to create the food of the future: Abundant pulses, innovation, sustainable infrastructure, and government support.

These qualities helped attract Hollywood director James Cameron, who invested in a Saskatchewan-based pea protein facility in 2017 in support of a global transition to a more plant-based diet. Verdient Foods was acquired by Fortune 500 company Ingredion in 2020. Illinois-based Ingredion expanded the manufacturing facility in Vanscoy, Saskatchewan in 2021. Cameron, meanwhile, continues to be involved in the Canadian market through his T Base 4 Investments company.

www.pip-international.com

CROWNE PLAZA HOTELS & RESORTS LAUNCHES IN BANGLADESH

IHG Hotels & Resorts partners with Doreen Hotels & Resorts to open Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan.

Dhaka, 19 January 2023 - IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened its first Crowne Plaza hotel in Bangladesh in partnership with Doreen Hotels & Resorts in the heart of Gulshan 2, the prime central business and residential district in Dhaka. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s largest premium hotel brands, with more than 400 hotels in major cities and resort locations in 65 countries. With a deep understanding of the needs of today’s global traveller, Crowne Plaza is renowned for its Work/ Life blend, encouraging guests to move seamlessly between business and leisure with purposeful multi-functional rooms, flexible workspaces, inspired restaurant and dining experiences and energizing social spaces.

As Dhaka continues to be a sought-after destination for both business and gateway for leisure travellers, IHG has added to the thriving city by opening the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Bangladesh in this truly unique capital city, which is teeming with Bengali cultural traditions. With smartly designed social spaces, guestrooms and suites, multitasking guests can easily accomplish what they need to while on the road.

Introducing Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan

Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan is a 25-minute drive from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and also boasts

PARTNER UPDATES

access to some of the area’s most coveted attractions. Being in an affluent neighbourhood and at a convenient distance from the city centre, shopping malls, popular restaurants, the hotel will be a great choice for leisure travellers. As the highly secure zone of Gulshan also houses multiple embassies, expat residential areas, business houses and head offices of Banks, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan will also be an excellent option for guests traveling to Dhaka for business.

Designed for maximum comfort and convenience, 149 state-of-the-art spacious guest rooms and suites feature sleek furnishings, complemented by a full range of amenities.

Inspired Restaurant & Bars experiences

Inspired restaurants and bar concepts sit at the heart of the hotel. Guest will have an array of choices with experienced chefs creating varied menu across the venues. The Deli - A fun happy place at lobby level to enjoy bakery and sweet delicacies paired with classic coffee and tea selections. Oasis Lounge – A casual lounge, perfect for conversations along with home-made desserts & drinks. The Flair - An all- day dining restaurant where diners can savour the delectable flavours of Asian, Indian, and Western cuisines alike. The Beast – A Latin American fine steak lounge on the 26 th floor, where guests can enjoy their meal in a warm, wood-panelled dining area overlooking the green and fascinating skyline of Dhaka.

Hotel facilities and experiences

The hotel features an inviting free-form outdoor swimming pool and sundeck with a sunbathing area situated on the rooftop, and hotel gym offers 24-hours fitness with cardio and strength equipment, with personal holistic support.

Banqueting and meeting rooms are also available for a variety of functions, including memorable weddings, social parties, and large business conferences.

The meeting facilities include a Ballroom and multiple meeting rooms accommodating anywhere from 150-200 guests.

Tanzeer Alam Siddique, Managing Director Doreen Hotels & Resorts said, “We are delighted to be partnering with IHG Hotels & Resorts to open the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Bangladesh. This hotel will further strengthen Dhaka’s offering

for both business and leisure travellers who are looking for a quality hospitality experience. The launch of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan further reinforces the economic prosperity and growth of the hospitality industry in Bangladesh”.

Speaking on the property, Karthi VK, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan commented, “We are delighted to introduce Crowne Plaza, one of the

world’s largest premium hotel brands, to Dhaka, Bangladesh and look forward to welcoming modern travellers to experience our restorative guestrooms as well as our flexible and energizing public spaces, providing guests with a seamless experience to rest, unwind and stay productive. The entire team is enthusiastic and look forward to welcoming our guests with the warmth of true hospitality that IHG Hotels & Resorts is known for.”

Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan

PSGXJORDAN

BRANDS BRING THEIR COLLABORATION TO LIGHT FOR 22/23 4TH KIT

Innovative and daring, the jersey pays tribute to the city of light. The black colour recalls the nights of the big games at the Parc des Princes. The jersey is crossed by yellow beams, whose arrangement pays a subtle tribute to the illuminated beams of the most beautiful monument of the capital, the Eiffel Tower, which sits proudly on the club's logo. The shirt has a distinctly electric look that conveys a sense of speed.

The jersey is now available for sale on www.store3.psg.fr with the entire collection in all NIKE and PSG networks, online and stores.

AN AERODYNAMIC STRATEGY FOR GROWTH

Offering a unique, one-stop-shop concept, Montana Aerospace plays an integral role in the supply chain of leading aircraft manufacturers across the world.

MONTANA AEROSPACE

PROJECT DIRECTED BY: CHIARA SALTER

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING

MONTANA AEROSPACE - AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING

The business is one of the world’s premier manufacturers of complex lightweight components and structures. Despite its name, Montana Aerospace also supplies its innovations to the e-mobility and energy sectors.

Led by a passionate and experienced leadership team, including co-CEO Kai Arndt, Montana Aerospace has set out its strategy to 2025. There is little doubt that the firm will do anything but soar past expectations.

A One-Stop Shop Concept

Montana Aerospace’s core competencies include the development and manufacturer of highly critical aircraft parts. Using high-tech materials and optimised designs, the business’ product range includes structural components more than 20 metres long for the fuselage, wings and landing gear, as well as components able to function under high thermal and mechanical loads.

Working with a range of metals, including aluminium, titanium, steel and copper, Montana Aerospace also delivers components including e-battery systems, transformers, generators and motors to its EV and energy clients. With 32 different locations across 14 countries in Europe, North and South America and Asia the business is well positioned to serve its OEM customersthe likes of Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier Aerospace and Gulfstream.

“We are a customer-focussed business and so being based in close proximity to our clients is key to the relationship building,” explained Arndt.

In addition, the business boasts seven engineering and development centres.

“Our concept consists of advising, developing, producing and providing service on a local-for-local basis. This helps us to have fast response times, intelligent logistics concepts and costoptimised solutions,” Kai shared.

By offering a one-stop shop service, which has bolstered its ESG initiatives, Montana Aerospace has become the supplier of choice for OEMs.

“By working locally to suppliers and providing everything under one roof, we have been able to reduce typical product delivery distance from 17,000 kilometres to 2,000 kilometres, in one example,” said Arndt, “As well as this meaning we can deliver more quickly than our competitors, it is also reducing our carbon footprint”.

With Montana Aerospace’s efficiencies, it has reduced its carbon footprint by 60%

as well shortening delivery times from 60 weeks to 10-12 weeks.

In recent years, customers have recognised the value of Montana Aerospace and it has received awards from Spirit (Supplier Innovation in 2022), AIrbus (Best Performer Award in 2020), and Boeing (Excellence in Advocacy Award in 2017).

Strategic Vision

Aligning itself with its customer’s own ramp-up initiatives, Montana Aerospace is on target to meet what Kai described as “a very, very aggressive

7,200 QUALIFIED EMPLOYEES

33 LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE

7 ENGINEERING & DEVELOPMENT CENTERS

Titanium Press Picture: Oliver Helbig for Montana Aerospace

MONTANA AEROSPACE - AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING

growth plan” to double its revenue yearly until 2025.

“Last year we delivered 1.5 million parts to customers and our order book is at capacity for the next year. For 2024 we’re already at about 80-90% booked, and we have about 20-30% availability for 2025. I am pleased to say we are in a very strong position,” shared Kai.

Montana Aerospace have made heavy

investments in recent years to support its growth, including a third heavy press for aluminium extrusions at its facility in Romania.

“With many businesses consolidating their supply chain, our one-stop shop offering is the perfect opportunity for customers. The investment at our site in Romania has led to some fantastic contracts, including extrusion for Airbus,” said Kai.

More than 1.5 million civil aircraft components are manufactured at Montana Aerospace's worldwide one-stop shops. Pictures: Jan Hosan for Montana Aerospace

Sales Sales

Precision metrology equipment

Machine tools

3D printers

Industrial X-ray systems

Microscopes and optical systems

For 12 years TOP Metrology has been For 12 years TOP Metrology has been one of the most appreciated suppliers of one of the most appreciated suppliers of services and equipment for all segments of services and equipment for all segments of iindustry. ndustry.

To a range of customers with the most To a range of customers with the most demanding quality requirements, we could demanding quality requirements, we could only address with a range of services and only address with a range of services and equipment from some of the most equipment from some of the most appreciated manufacturers worldwide. appreciated manufacturers worldwide.

Services Services

X-Ray / CT scanning

2D and 3D dimensional control

Component sorting

Machining

Additive manufacturing

MONTANA AEROSPACE - AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING

In April 2022, Montana Aerospace acquired aircraft parts manufacturer, Asco. The acquisition has strengthened the business portfolio as well as its geographical footprint.

Although acquisition isn’t currently a priority for Montana Aerospace, the business will continue to explore opportunities in the market, from both a geographical and product perspective.

Naturally, with business growth should come the adoption of more personnel. Kai foresees the need for the business to grow from its existing 7,000 to 10,000 employees.

“Like most industries, post-pandemic we are facing a labour shortage. We already require an additional 500 colleagues in Romania within the next year to meet demand,” shared Kai, “because of the nature of our business it is crucial to have skilled labour. We’re investing a lot of time into training and

development, which will be one of our focusses over the next 12 months”.

The Key to Leadership

When it comes to his colleagues, Kai has the ability to relate, having worked his way from apprentice to management whilst at his previous employer, Airbus.

“I believe the ability to talk to people and to understand their problems is in my DNA, but of course, it does help that I’ve been in their position, too,” said Kai, “having the opportunity at Montana Aerospace to visit our many facilities and meet with our culturally diverse employees has also benefited my leadership style”.

“Of the key competencies, a leader should be able to listen. Then, the challenge is to onboard colleagues into the strategy. However, having a truly diverse leadership team means that our strategy is filled with different perspectives and is essentially bullet proof” he continued.

Pictures: Jan Hosan for Montana Aerospace

Having previously worked for Airbus, a customer of Montana Aerospace, for 30 years, Kai knows the business inside out.

“From my own experience as a customer, I always knew that Montana Aerospace was synonymous with quality and reliability. An offer came to me at the right time, and I was attracted by the business’ concept and vision. I was really enamoured by how the business has created an entrepreneurial

spirit within an industrial environment, it’s really, really cool,” explained Kai.

Combatting the Turbulence Ahead

Despite the outlook for Montana Aerospace clearly being very positive, Kai acknowledged that the business isn’t immune to the challenges faced by most industries.

As well as labour shortages, the global energy prices and material shortage is a

Montana Aerospace designs and manufactures structural components and high-lift devices, including slats (below) for the global aerospace industry.

MONTANA AEROSPACE - AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING

challenge which Montana Aerospace is prepared to face head on.

“The key is to always have open discussions with customers. We’re in the business of extrusion which is very energy intensive and therefore costly in the current climate. We’ve had some positive conversations with the OEMs to come up with good solutions,” said Kai.

Although the material shortage is still prevalent, Kai believes this isn’t as critical

as during the early part of 2022. What was clearly reflected by Kai during his conversation with Business Enquirer was that Montana Aerospace was stepping into 2023 in a positive position.

“We’re completely in line with our strategy and the results for 2022 year end looks positive. We’re starting on fantastic footing for the year ahead and it’s going to be really exciting to see what happens,” he said.

www.montana-aerospace.com

At 7 locations worldwide, Montana Aerospace experts are researching new designs, materials and material compounds as well as forward looking manufacturing techniques. Pictures: Jan Hosan for Montana Aerospace

SAILING HIGH

With the pandemic bringing the cruise industry to complete standstill, the revenue of the global leading cruise companies dropped substantially, some by up to 91%.

Of course, this sent a ripple effect through the cruise sector’s supply chain.

But, it’s not all doom and gloom. A report from the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) indicates demand for cruising remains strong, with an increase in those saying they plan to cruise again.

This is reflected in the outlook of leading marine outfitting business, MJM Marine Ltd. The company foresees growth in the coming years and the introduction of revolutionary new products for its customers.

The Preferred Partner

Established in 1983, MJM initially provided joinery services for the construction sector and refurbishment services to the Irish Sea Ferry Corridor. Throughout the years, the business incorporated a specialist joinery division enabling MJM to branch into the hotel and leisure industries.

MJM are a leading global outfitting company in the cruise industry and the preferred partner for many of the world`s cruise brands.

“What has helped secure our position in the industry is our ability to truly understand our customer’s brand,” explained CEO Gary Annett, “ultimately, the experience on board is what we build for our customers, and we play a role in delivering this to the highest standard”.

When speaking with Business Enquirer, Gary also highlighted MJM’s agility is critical to its success.

As we enter 2023, it would be celebratory to ban the C-word: Covid. But when discussing one of the leading businesses in the cruising sector, it’s simply unavoidable.

Virgin Voyages, Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady

“We have the ability to complete large projects in 16 weeks, from concept through to handover to the cruise line and ultimately passengers enjoying their vacation. We manage the challenges that come with global supply chains and logistics to take the stress away for our customers. MJM is now synonymous with reliability and flexibility,” said Gary.

Navigating Recovery

Ahead of the global industry-wide shut down, MJM had a healthy order book, with seven major projects on the precipice of Installation.

“We took this time to consolidate the business and manage the logistics of our material & products in different parts of

ESTABLISHED IN

BY

the world, and advance our training and digital programmes, ensuring that we were in a strong position for when the industry inevitably restarted and began to recover,” explained Gary.

Unfortunately, during this period MJM saw a reduction in staff numbers. Now, the business is stepping into a period of growth.

“Last year we grew our team by over 50 staff in Newry, the focus for 2023 is certainly further growth,” shared Gary.

However, like most industries, MJM has found there is a labour shortage.

“Late 2019, MJM launched Navigate, its early careers programme. MJM’s

1983

BRIAN MCCONVILLE CBE, MJM MARINE HAS EVOLVED INTO A GLOBAL MARINE OUTFITTING SPECIALIST.

Navigate Programme supports the Company’s student recruitment activities. It is an umbrella programme which encompasses our engagement with Schools and Universities specifically covering opportunities for Work experience, Placements, Apprentices and Graduates. The scheme equips people with the skills, knowledge, qualifications, and experience to succeed in their chosen field, whether that’s in Quantity Surveying, Project Management, or Design, for example,” said Gary.

“Being based on a relatively small island, it’s important that we can train upcoming colleagues and also empower them to be able to adapt,” he continued.

Forming part of MJM’s growth strategy

YOUR STAINLESS STEEL EXPERTS ON BOARD

• GALLEYS

• BARS

• PANTRIES

• FOOD PREPARATION AREAS

Marinox Ltd will find an answer to every single problem in the catering-related areas on your vessel.

Very knowledgeable team with vast experience and high quality standards.

USPH compliant solutions and most flexible approach either in service or in dry dock, worldwide.

Ritz Carlton EvrimaObservation Room Interior

Leading supplier to the Hospitality and Marine Industry

Plan Manufacture Deliver Support

is also the investment into its facilities in Newry, Northern Ireland and Gdansk, Poland. The business will also seek to expand the business footprint and develop its digital solutions to its core activities.

“With growth, it’s important that we manage our teams and locations, ensuring that we are completely integrated across sites. Our digital journey and the way we manage and develop our business end to end continues to evolve”.

Challenge Brings Opportunity

Despite all the challenges caused by COVID, the world also learnt to adapt, including at MJM.

With its customers having their own unique approach to returning to sea, the business saw the need for adaptations in projects. By-2021, MJM were working

Aquarius Interiors Limited — Quick usage guide Colours

on various types of customer projects which also included upgrading of medical facilities aboard vessels, enabling customers to get back to sea safely.

Despite the industry not being completely back to pre-COVID conditions, with customers looking to build financial stability before investing in bigger projects, the outlook for MJM is positive.

“Our reputation has ensured as the core market changes, we have strong existing partnerships across the sector.,” explained Gary, “we’ve built fantastic relationships with the likes of Ritz–Carlton as they enter the market - we’ve just supported them on their first new build”.

“With the sustainability measures we’re implementing as a business as well as into client projects, the next steps will be to start monitoring the output and effects,” he said.

“During our last project of 2022 we refitted 450 cabins and 21 suites in 32 days including the installation of antimicrobial lighting technology in the cabin wet units. The technology enabled MJM to support onboard health measures with antimicrobial protection within the cabin spaces for guests and crew. The project on the Marella Discovery had an installation team of over 650 people aboard. It was a large project coming off the back of smaller, COVID-restricted jobs. Whilst it was our largest project of the year, our reputation and familiarity in this scale of project were again proven in the seamless delivery, and evidence that the industry could start to return,” shared Gary.

Gary believes that the market is still very much in a recovery phase but is in a positive position to start going from strength to strength in the coming years.

www.mjm-group.com

Supplier of the Year Award 2022 CSIE Europe Awards

THE MANUFACTURING REVOLUTION

What seems like a manufacturing process of the future is now very much here, helping to produce innovative parts for rocket ships and create custom made and patientmatched implants.

But those applications all seem very futuristic too, don’t they?

What SLM Solutions CEO, Sam O’Leary, wants you to know is that additive manufacturing is now forming part of the world’s day-to-day. You’ll find parts made by the manufacturing process in cars, trains and tools.

Additive manufacturing is here and now, and SLM Solutions is at the forefront of the revolution.

The Obvious Choice

SLM Solutions’ specific process of additive manufacturing is Selective Laser Melting, a process co-created by SLM Solutions Chief Engineer, Dr Dieter Schwarze.

The business’ process uses its innovative industrial metal additive manufacturing machines to mould advanced and lightweight materials into bespoke solutions for its customers, defying the limitations of traditional manufacturing.

“Our technology is now 1000 time more productive than it was twenty years ago, with a majority of that development happening in the last four to five years,”

SLM

SOLUTIONS PROJECT DIRECTED

BY: CHARLOTTE ROPE

ARTICLE

WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING

To the average person, it may be hard to believe that 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, was first introduced in the 1980s.

explained Sam, “it’s now a truly viable choice for customers, but additive manufacturing only has about 2% of global market share - there is tremendous potential for growth”.

As well as having the ability to to create more complex structures, selective laser melting reduces labour requirementsa clear selling point during the current labour shortages faced across the globe. Its use of lightweight materials combined with technology to design advanced structures means the final application has the ability to reduce its energy consumption, too.

Scaling Up

According to analysis, the global additive manufacturing market size has a CAGR of 21.2% from 2022 to 2030.

Matching the growth of the market, Sam

outlined a five year strategy to grow the business by a factor of five when joining SLM Solutions in 2019.

“In 2019 we had a turnover just under $50 million, at the end of 2022 we were in excess of $100 million. This achievement, during a period of unexpected market conditions, is a testament to our product and abilities,” he said.

Supporting the business’ growth plans is its recent acquisition by Nikon. As part of Nikon’s plans to increase its position in the additive manufacturing space, it acquired a 92% share of the business, which will remain as SLM Solutions.

“The year ahead is going to be an exciting period for us. The additional security in the market brought by the acquisition means that we can focus on innovations and further improve how we serve our customers,” shared Sam, “we will also benefit from Nikon’s own experience

It’s a match! How to find the right... industrial vacuum cleaner?

Dynamic, innovative industrial processes, such as Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM), need reliable and adaptable partner technologies e.g., concerning maintenance cleaning. However, the role of industrial vacuum cleaners in everyday operations is often underestimated.

Alot is happening in the industrial world right now: Since Manufacturing processes are being rethought to become adaptable ever faster, AM is playing an increasingly important role in various industries (such as aviation, medicine or automotive). This is also made clear by the current study on the state of the additive manufacturing industry, the Wohlers Report 2022: The industry can show a growth of 19.5 % compared to the previous year.

Better clean than sorry

No matter where an AM printer is used, the printer chamber must be vacuumed to ensure safe and clean operation. During the printing process, aluminium or titanium dust is produced. These are gradually deposited in the printing chamber. If the dust is stirred up, not only is the health of the employees endangered, they actually can explode!

The devil in the details

Dust? You take a vacuum and remove it. But in case of AM, it is not that easy. The metal dust can cause serious illnesses when inhaled or explode in the vacuum cleaner during extraction or at the latest afterwards. For this reason, a special industrial vacuum cleaner with inert technology is needed, such as the safety vacuum cleaner with wet separation from Evo-Products. The professional vacuum cleaner passivates and binds the explosive metal dust through a liquid bath. Therefore, they are no longer reactive.

through to the last particle

When extracting hazardous substances, really everything has to be thought of:

• Special VA and H14 cartridge filters provide clean air

•Suction bend with camlock coupling for safe connection of the suction hose

•Degasing valve for maximum safety: prevents build-up of gases and vapours.

•Every part of the Evotec vacuum is built to meet the highest safety requirements of metal dusts extraction in zone 22

•Accessories, such as the suction hose are fully ESD-conductive The flexibilty to every process, adjustable technology Evotec:

The company Evo-Products offers moreover central extraction systems, customized solutions and attaches importance to low-contamination disposal by means of Longopac.

and expertise which will only bolster our position as a pioneer”.

Supported by Nikon, Sam foresees the opportunity to grow the business footprint, which currently has application centres in China, Germany, Singapore and the US. In addition, it has sales sites in every corner of the world, ensuring it can easily connect with and efficiently support its customers.

Predominantly, SLM Solutions partners with customers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, defence and healthcare, in which the use of additive manufacturing is already mature.

Beauty in the Mundane

“With additive manufacturing becoming a more mainstream approach to production, I believe we’ll see more opportunities in the consumer electrical market,” said Sam.

And that’s just it. Additive manufacturing (and within that, selective laser melting) is seeing more uptake en masse, particularly as the next generation of engineers take

on roles within SLM Solution’s customer’s industries.

From Bugatti brake callipers to monolithic trust chambers for space applications, there’s no denying that a proportion of SLMs order book is very cool.

But what Sam loves about SLM Solutions is the solutions it can indirectly provide to the average person’s day-to-day life.

“In 2020 we worked on a project with Azienda Napoletana Mobilità, a transport company in Naples, to produce a critical part for the city’s trolleybuses. Implementing our SLM® 500, ANM and 3DnA we were able to assist ANM in ensuring the trolleybuses remained functioning, providing a vital service to residence and helping to reduce the carbon footprint in the region,” explained Sam, “This is where our technology makes a real impact on the world”.

Relentless Innovators

Born out of innovation, SLM Solutions strives to deliver the next breakthrough in the market.

Apparatus and container construction

Vacuum technology

Barrel technique

Sheet metal technology

Pipe technology

Plant and steel construction and welding technology

Engineering & reverse engineering

Machining and machining of large parts

Surface engineeringengineering

Engine & Aircraft Tooling

In November 2022, the business announced the development of a new technology which will enable the 3D printing of metal parts with a size of up to 3.0m x 1.2m x1.2m.

“This is yet another piece of game changing technology that opens up new possibilities and removes previously accepted geometrical restrictions. Every piece of technology we develop is testament to our incredible team of relentless innovators, who constantly strive to solve our customers’ manufacturing challenges,” said Sam.

Currently, SLM Solutions is made up of a 600-strong team with an average age of 35, 40% of which are engineers. “For innovation to be successful we need to allow our colleagues the freedom to explore. Our latest innovations are coming from young members of the team who have only been with us for six months,” said Sam, “it’s important that we run the business with the mindset of a group of engineers and not as a hierarchical system”.

Sam has worked with his team to create a

collaborative working environment, where failure is an accepted part of the process. “We have to troubleshoot to find the best outcome, the focus is on problem solving not quick wins,” he said.

Going full-circle, SLM Solutions will soon be launching its own apprenticeship program.

“I was a college drop-out but found my path when I started an engineering apprenticeship. I was given my first leadership opportunity in my early 20’s - someone took a chance on me, and I believe in that too. Everybody needs an opportunity to start somewhere and so I’m delighted that we can provide that platform for young people stepping into the industry,” shared Sam.

Above all, Sam says enthusiasm, intensity and attitude are key to working at SLM Solutions.

“People have to love what they do - we are changing the world at SLM Solutions”. And Sam is certainly leading by example.

www.slm-solutions.com

Veganuary:

New recipe data reveals most popular ingredients

for Vegan newbies

New analysis has revealed the highest-rated ingredients for plant-based diet newbies to have in their pantry ahead of Veganuary.

Based on analysis of the UK’s leading recipe site, garlic is the favourite ingredient - and it has immuneboosting properties.

UK interest in Veganuary rises by an average of 58% each year, with over 91,000 Brits predicted to participate this January.

New analysis has named the most popular plant-based ingredients for Brits to include in their January food shops, if they’re looking to give Veganuary a go this year.

The ranking, revealed by sports nutrition experts Bulk.com, is based on the toprated winter plant-based recipes from the UK’s leading food site - and also looks at seasonal search trend data to predict how many people will participate in Vegananuary in 2023.

Veganuary consists of an annual 31-day challenge that encourages people to follow a plant-based diet in January, in an effort to lower their animal product consumption.

Many people are reluctant to try plantbased dishes as they perceive them to be less flavourful - with studies suggesting that going vegan can change your taste perceptions.

immune system.

Other herbs, spices and flavourings that proved particularly popular were ginger

Survey.

Picture: Hermes Rivera

SOURCES: GOOGLE TRENDS, BBC GOOD FOOD AND THE OFFICIAL VEGANUARY PARTICIPATION SURVEY.

and lemon (both appearing in 9 recipes out of 50), coriander, soy sauce and thyme.

There’s more good news for fans of roasted or confited garlic, as the secondmost featured ingredient in the vegan recipes was olive oil, which contains various antioxidants.

Another common conception that may dissuade people from trying vegan food is that it’s less-nutritious, leaving Brits nervous that they may not get enough protein.

Top 10 ingredients of popular vegan recipes

The recipe analysis also looked at the nutritional value of each dish, and found that while some meal options did lack in protein compared to others, plenty could easily help Brits meet their recommended intake - roughly 45g for women, and 55g for men.

This equates to 15-18g of protein needed per meal - which 22% of the top-rated recipes meet, and 18% exceed. Dishes that were pasta-based proved particularly protein-rich.

Following the findings, a Bulk.com spokesperson said: “While changing your diet can be daunting, it can be a great way to test your endurance and to try something different for a little while - with the list of top ingredients providing the perfect shopping list for Veganuary.

“If you’re unsure whether incorporating plant-based dishes into your diet can help you meet your nutritional requirements, there are plenty of options available to alleviate the pressure, such as plantbased protein bars, B12 supplements and multivitamins.”

To predict how many Brits will try going vegan this year, the brand looked at search trend data over the last decade to see how much Veganuary searches rise each January.

The data shows that on average, Veganuary interest has risen by 58% in January each year - and with 157,338 Brits confirmed to have taken part in last year’s challenge, at least 91,256 more people are predicted to be participating this year.

There are lots of different diets, but regardless of why you are dieting, it will inevitably involve following a pre-determined eating plan and giving up some of your favourite foods. Unfortunately, following a restrictive diet can lead to feelings of deprivation, cravings, and hunger.

Patrick Dale, personal trainer and fitness expert at FitnessVolt. com has prepared this guide to help stop cheat meals from overtaking your health.

1.Make a schedule

If you don’t plan your cheat meals in advance, you are much more likely to cheat. So, choose a day and a time for your cheat meal and commit to maintaining your diet right up to that point. Knowing when your cheat meal is due to happen gives you something to look forward to and may stop you from cheating more often.

2.Don’t have more than one cheat meal

www.fitnessvolt.com

A cheat meal is exactly that – a single meal or snack. Don’t let your cheat meal roll over into the next day or the weekend. So, try not to schedule your cheat for a Friday night.

3.Cheating isn’t bingeing

There is a huge difference between a rewarding cheat meal and a junk food binge. After a week of healthy eating, you may feel ready to eat your entire body weight in ice cream or pizza. Instead, practice sensible portion control to avoid turning a cheat meal into a binge. Order regular-sized portions of cheat food instead.

4.Exercise first

You can make the effects of your cheat meal less impactful by eating shortly after exercise. Intense workouts mean at least some of your excess calories and nutrients will be used for fuel or driven away from your fat stores.

5.Don’t keep junk at home

If lack of willpower means you cannot resist junk food at home, make your home a junk food-free zone. Don’t buy cheat foods to store for later, it will just tempt you into breaking your healthy habits.

6.Don’t cheat at the start of your diet

Be honest and base your cheat meal frequency on where you are in relation to your goal. The closer you are, the more cheat meals you can afford. But, if you’ve still got a long way to go, you need to focus on dietary compliance, and even planned cheats could make sticking to your diet harder than it needs to be.

7.Keep eating healthy

It’s all too easy to let a cheat meal become a cheat day. Instead, break the cycle by ensuring that your next meal adheres to your current diet. Think of your cheat meal as “one and done.” The sooner you get back to your regular diet, the faster you’ll get back on track toward your goals.

Emily in Paris crowned biggest influencer

THE MOST INFLUENTIAL POP CULTURE

New research has revealed which figures, careers and jobs are the most inspiring when portrayed in TV or film - with Emily in Paris proving the most influential show.

Thefindings,pulled togetherbyIrishcasino Slotbox,lookedatthe jobsheldbythemain figuresfeaturedinover 200popularTVshows and films,andconducted a searchanalysisto identify anyrelateduptick in interestfromviewers inspiredbythefigures.

Eachfigurewasthen awardedaninfluence score,reflectingchanges insearchinterestafter eachTVshow/filmdebuted -revealingthebiggest onscreeninspirations.

And although Chicago marketing exec

Emily Cooper has struggled to get comfortable in her career after landing her dream job in Paris, she’s been named the most inspiring figure, with many Emily in Paris fans looking to follow in her footsteps.

After the first episode of the Netflix series aired back in October 2020, Google searches for ‘marketing executive jobs’ increased by 9,900% in the first 24 hours, awarding Emily Cooper the highest influence score of all 200+ figures analysed.

According to the research, Instagramlover Emily Cooper came out as more inspiring than real-life influencer and real estate agent Chrishell Stause, who stars in Selling Sunset.

Fans weren’t just interested in Emily’s career either, as searches for ‘marketing jobs in Paris’ also saw a significant increase (up 3,500%) across the same period.

In fact, media-based jobs proved particularly popular with viewers anytime they were portrayed onscreen, with searches for ‘journalism jobs’ also rising 9,900% after Netflix drama The Journalist hit screens early last year.

Another standout rise in interest was attributed to The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), which saw searches for ‘stockbroker jobs’ skyrocket, alongside searches for 'Wall Street’ jobs’ - despite main figure Jordan Belfort’s career falling apart and resulting in jail time.

Other figures that struck a chord with fans were folk musician Colm Doherty from The Banshees of Insherin, which resulted in a rise in searches for ‘how to learn music’, as well as Glass Onion’s Benoit Blanc, who inspired an influx of interest around private investigators.

Images courtesy of Netflix/Disney

Sustainability in its DNA

According

So, how does a British Luxury Lifestyle brand, whose core offering is luxury leather goods, ensure that it’s sustainable? Well, Mulberry believes it’s in the “how”, not the “cow”.

The iconic brand behind Le Style Anglais has always been one step ahead of the sustainability game. In fact, Mulberry UK’s operations have been a carbon neutral business since 2019.

Mulberry’s sustainable measures span its whole business, from the practices it implements in-house, to its carefully sourced supply chain and its after sales services for customers.

Zero Waste

Dating back to 1971, Mulberry is the biggest leather goods manufacturer in the UK, with its most recent annual report revealing a group revenue for year ending April 2022 of £152.4 million.

“We are a truly modern, truly global company. But through our heritage, our craftspeople, our inspirations and our designs, Mulberry’s soul will always be British” states Mulberry in its annual report.

MULBERRY PROJECT

DIRECTED BY:

CHARLOTTE BILLIG

ARTICLE

WRITTEN BY:

LAURA WATLING

to The World Resources Institute, roughly 40% of the annual loss of primary rainforest is associated with commodity production including clearing forest to raise cattle. “Deforestation is among the largest sources of global greenhouse gas emissions,” it says.

Mulberry festive campaign 2022

Mulberry festive campaign 2022

Established in Somerset as a family business, over 50% of Mulberry’s products are produced in its two Somerset factories, The Rookery and The Willows. The Rookery is home to Mulberry’s Lifetime Service Centre.

“Sustainability is in our DNA,” shared Mulberry CEO Thierry Andretta, when speaking exclusively to Business Enquirer, “our products are designed to last, but our talented team renew and repair over 10,000 bags a year for our customers. It’s something to be truly proud of”.

Mulberry was one of the first luxury lifestyle brands to launch its own circular economy programme, The Mulberry Exchange.

The Mulberry Exchange first appeared in stores in 2020, extending to mulberry.com and Vestiaire Collective in April 2021.

The programme invites customers to have their Mulberry bags authenticated and expertly restored. Customers then have

theopportunitytotradeintheirexisting bagforcredittowardseitheranew purchaseorapre-lovedstyle.

TheMulberryExchangeensuresthat everyMulberrybaghastheopportunity tolivemanylivesandbeenjoyedbymany owners.Inthepastyear,theMulberry Exchangehasgone fromstrengthto strengthandenablesMulberrytopioneer circularityglobally.

InApril2022,Mulberrylaunchedthe MulberryExchangeonitsUSwebsite, and inJune2022thebusinessannouncedthe launchofMulberry’sDigitalIDs,powered byEON.ThiswillprovideMulberry Exchangecustomerswithvaluable informationaboutthelifecycleoftheir pre-lovedbag.

“Theseinitiativeshavebecome cornerstonesofMulberry’sbusiness.It isfurtherproofofourcustomer’sloveof Mulberryiconspastandpresentandtheir trustinthelongevityofthebrandandour product,”Thierryshared.

Mulberryplanstocontinueextendingthe MulberryExchangetoitsglobalomnichannelinthemonthsahead.

AspartofMulberry’scommitment toachievenetzeroGreenhouseGas (GHG)emissionsby2035,thebusinessis implementingsustainabilityinitiatives acrosseveryelementofitsbusiness.

Fromaproductionperspective,this includescombiningtheuseofgreen energywiththebesttechnologyto ensure consumptionislimited.

Thebusinesskeepswastetoaminimum, implementingmanufacturingtechniques toensureminimalleatheroffcutsare produced.Anyleatherwastethatis createdisdonatedtolocalschools, universitiesandcraftgroupsandscrap stores.

Mulberry’sSomersetfactoriesalsowork withZeroWastetoLandfillproviders, recoveringenergyfromwastewhich cannotbereusedorrecycled.Anynonrecyclablewastewhichwouldtraditionally

THE COMPANY WAS FOUNDED IN 1971 BY ROGER SAUL AND HIS MOTHER

CEO, Thierry Andretta

go to landfill is instead processed at an Energy Recovery Facility, creating electricity for the National Grid.

Responsible Leather

Mulberry’s collections are 90% leather goods, and so it is crucial to the business that it uses the material in the most sustainably responsible way.

“100% of the leather sourced in our collections from this season onwards are from environmentally accredited tanneries,” shared Thierry, “traceability is important to us, so we know that 97% of our suppliers monitor their energy consumption whilst 62% of them are using green energy”.

In addition, all the leather used in its collections (from this season onwards) is carbon neutral, which is achieved through offsetting with charity World Land Trust.

In May 2022 Mulberry launched the Carbon Neutral Lily. The collection included 12 carbon neutral designs, crafted from carbon neutral leather and made in Mulberry’s carbon neutral Somerset factories. Components, transport and packaging were all additionally offset via the World Land Trust.

Within its offering, there is space for nonleather goods, and attention has been paid here, too, to ensure sustainable and innovative materials are used.

This includes the replacement of virgin nylon with ECONYL® , which is made from nylon waste, and the use of bio-acetate in Mulberry’s sunglasses range.

“We’ve also set the goal of using only sustainably sourced cotton in our collections by 2025. As signatories of Textile Exchange’s Sustainable Cotton Challenge, we pledge to source this cotton through organic and recycled sources, or through our Better Cotton membership, the largest cotton sustainability programme in the world, which aims to improve cotton farming globally,” explained Thierry. International Growth

Repairing at Mulberry

MULBERRY - FASHION

“Our sustainable collections build upon our Made to Last goals and represent the future of Mulberry,” said Thierry, “but we are also looking to other initiatives and innovations to optimise our brand”. Mulberry already has a well designed omni-channel presence, including 120 owned and partner stores across 25 countries, as well as a website which contributes to 31% of its revenue. However, the future for Mulberry will include considering how to utilise new platforms such as the metaverse and the NFT space.

“This is a challenging step for most businesses, but we will be looking at how we can integrate our sustainability goals within these new spaces,” explained Thierry.

Despite being present worldwide (with its website shipping to over 190 countries), 60% of Mulberry’s business is in the UK, a rarity, according to Thierry.

MULBERRY IS THE LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF LUXURY LEATHER GOODS IN THE UK

“Mulberryisunique,Iknowofnoother luxurybrandwithmorethan20-25% ofbusinessinitsowncountry,”hesaid, “internationalisationwillformapartofour strategywithinthecomingyears”. Partofthisstrategywilllooktofurther improveMulberry’somni-channelandthe customerexperience,creatingacohesive flowbetweenthedigitaland‘bricksand mortar’experiences.

The Human Touch

Despitethedemandsofdigitisation andautomationinthefutureof manufacturing,Thierrybelievesthat peoplewillalwaysbeatthecoreofthe business,andteamworkisafactorinits success.

Havingspentthelast30yearsleading luxurybrandstosuccess(including McQueen,Balenciaga,Celineand Armani),ThierrycametoMulberryasan independentmemberoftheboardin 2014.

“WhatIloveaboutMulberryisithasa fantasticstoryandloyalcustomers.When IjoinedasCEOin2015Ifeltthatitneeded moredirection,”sharedThierry,“so,Iaim tobringtothetableaclearstrategyand direction”.

Asaleader,Thierrybelievesitisimportant to“testandtry”andbehumblein mistakes.

“Therecanberesistancetochange,but wewon’tknowwhatworksuntilwetryit,” hesaid.

“Mulberryis52yearsoldthisyear,butthe journeyisnotdone.Inthenearfuture wewillbelookingtoinvestfurtherinto ourfactoriesandourpeopletoenable ouradvancementinsustainabilityand internationalisation,”Thierryconcluded.

www.mulberry.com

Mulberry festive campaign 2022

A Unique Offering in Milan’s Financial District

After welcomed investment from the City Council, Milan is swiftly becoming a contender for the most popular city break destination in Europe.

Traditionally known for being a business traveller hotspot, postcovid, the Italian city is also seeing an increase in tourists both international and domestic.

In May and June, Milan’s tourism and hotel sector saw it compete in popularity with the likes of Florence, Venice and Rome. Reflecting this are the results for Crowne Plaza Milan City (part of InterContinental Hotels Group, IHG), which saw a 30-55% increase in bookings in May-June 2022, as well a 25% increase in November.

Meeting the demand, Crowne Plaza Milan City is making some impressive renovations to the hotel, due to be ready for guests in March 2023.

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING

A City With Plenty To Offer

“Thanks to investment from the city council, Milan city has undergone radical

CROWNE PLAZA MILAN CITY PROJECT DIRECTED BY: JAMIE WAITE

CROWNE PLAZA MILAN CITY - HOSPITALITY

transformation, which has enabled increased trade and diversification in the region,” shared Crowne Plaza Milan City’s Director of Sales and Revenue, Fabio Bettinelli.

The investment has seen core development of the city as well as the urban areas, transport and sustainability. Fabio explained how this has not only improved the region for tourists but the Milanese locals, also.

The Crowne Plaza Milan City’s core business is made up of 55-60% business travellers, and the remaining 35% is tourists.

No matter what brings you to Milan and

despite being known as Italy’s industrial and financial centre, there is plenty for visitors to see.

“Milan is a historic city, the cathedral, the galleries and the canal offer a lot of culture,” shared Fabio, who has been based at the Crowne Plaza Milan City since its opening in 2008, “there is plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy whilst taking in views of the city, something which we hope to attract more guests of at the Crowne Plaza”.

And for those looking to hit the shops, you won’t be disappointed. Gucci, Armani, Valentino, Versace, Prada and Dolce & Gabbana are all HQed in the city.

THE CROWNE PLAZA CITY MILAN IS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF MILAN, A FEW STEPS FROM CENTRAL STATION AND THE METRO

CROWNE PLAZA MILAN CITY - HOSPITALITY

Exceeding Expectations

Based in the financial district, the Crowne Plaza Milan City is well situated for anything guests wish to do with their time in Milan.

Directly outside the hotel is a metro which takes travellers to the heart of Milan in six minutes. It is also walking distance to the train station - where you can take a train to the likes of Lake Como - and easy access to the airport.

“One of the USPs of the hotel is that we have secure parking for our guests, something which can be difficult to find in cities such as ours,” explained Fabio.

The four-star hotel features the Metropolitan Restaurant and Metropolitan Lounge Bar for both hotel residents and the local Milanese to enjoy.

Chiara Salter, Project Director at Business Enquirer, had the opportunity to experience the hotel, and described the food as “like no other four-star experience, it was on-par with fine dining and went above and beyond our expectations”.

“We recognise that people living in and visiting Italy are looking for hotels to meet, relax and enjoy aperitifs, so we are expanding our services in that area to meet demand,” said Fabio.

A mission reflected across all IHG hotels,

the Crowne Plaza Milan City understands the importance of offering a fantastic experience for its guests.

“I believe it is down to offering the extra, fine details,” explained Fabio, “we have a stunning property and a great location, but all of that is surface level if you don’t underpin it with a fantastic service”.

From Chiara’s experience at the hotel, the mission has certainly been achieved. “The service was impeccable. All of the staff we interacted with were very friendly and couldn't have done more for us,” she said.

In addition to the dining and drinking options, the hotel also features a Wellness Corner on the 9th floor, with a fitness area, steam room and sauna, which is included in guests’ stay and offers fantastic views of the city.

Renovate to Celebrate

Celebrating 15 years in 2023, the Crowne Plaza Milan City has big renovation plans to celebrate.

Plans are underway to redesign the hotel’s lobby, as well as a restyle of the rooms to include decor upgrades in the bedroom

and bathroom areas. The fitness area will also undergo development to make it larger, to match demand.

“The two most exciting parts of the hotel’s renovation is the work we are undertaking on the outside area,” shared Fabio.

The Crowne Plaza Milan City are currently building a unique offering for a Milan city hotel - an outdoor swimming pool. “We believe this will be a point of interest for tourists,” continued Fabio.

In line with the addition of a swimming pool, the hotel is redesigning the outdoor area, which will offer activities for both hotel residents and its Milanese guests.

The renovation of the hotel is anticipated to be complete by April 2023, in time for the summer season.

Minimum Churn, Maximum Impact

A testament to IHG and the management of Crowne Plaza Milan City, 90% of its staff have been at the hotel since it launched in 2008.

“IHG have done a lot of work to improve its culture, and it does feel like we are all part of the wider IHG family,” said Fabio, “there is opportunities for all staff to develop, undergo international training, travel within IHG and understand how the industry works”.

“IHG and the Crowne Plaza Hotel offer its staff a career with a progression path. If your colleagues are happy and proud of the work they do, 50% of the work is done. This will also be reflected in the service they provide to guests,” he continued.

Fabio is a great example of progression, starting his career in the industry as a hotel night porter. He undertook further roles in reception, housekeeping and then moved into the commercial side.

He joined the Crowne Plaza Milan City, a purpose-built hotel, at its inception, starting as resident manager, moving into sales and revenue management. His role

Director of Sales and Revenue, Fabio Bettinelli

CROWNE PLAZA MILAN CITY - HOSPITALITY

now covers both the Crowne Plaza Milan City and two sister hotels in the city.

“My experience across the industry has taught me that contact with the guest is vital to building a successful hotel business. I am delighted that my

colleagues at the Crowne Plaza Milan City all understand the importance of this connection, which provides guests with a memorable stay. The renovation project which will be complete in 2023 will only uplift this experience further,” shared Fabio.

Jordan Jones, the entrepreneur disrupting norms

Alot has changed in 100 years. Horse and cart has transformed into the EV, via the automobile. Telegrams are no longer sent via a telegraph but are now an app on your smartphone.

So why, then, are businesses still stuck in the archaic nine to five troupe dictated by Henry Ford in the 1920s?

This business mentality is being challenged by the young entrepreneurs of today, with MAUVAIS Managing Director, Jordan Jones, being a prime example of success.

Start ‘em Young

It could be said that Jordan Jones comes from good business stock - his mother had a role in marketing and his Grandad was a business owner.

“My family has always inspired me. From as young as 8, I started to buy and sell on Amazon and eBay,” he shared, “I was the child that asked for coding books for Christmas”.

By 17, Jordan had established his first clothing brand.

“I really did start the business from scratch in my bedroom. I taught myself how to use design software, create tech packs, sourced the factories and developed relationships with retailers like ASOS”.

Jordan’s original concept was focussed on gym wear, but he soon realised this would pigeon-hole the business.

“MAUVAIS was born out of variety,” he said. “Although our focus is quality, trendled men’s wear, we also have a growing women’s division, and have capacity to build out into jewellery and accessories in the future.

Officially established in 2018, MAUVAIS has grown from two staff in 2021 to 14 in 2023, with its latest annual revenue reaching £7.5 million.

As a young entrepreneur, Jordan understands his team member’s wants and needs as people as well as employees.

“I believe flexibility and transparency is key. This has helped to get colleagues onboard with the brand’s journey whilst also encouraging them to be part of it. MAUVAIS is theirs as much as it is mine,” he said.

And about challenging that nine to five?

“As long as everyone is getting their job done, I’m flexible. One of our colleagues recently went travelling for five months whilst still working. This has helped foster a workplace where everyone is happy”.

Like a MAUVAIS

In 2021, the size of the global apparel market was $1.55 trillion. So, what has made MAUVAIS stand out?

“The focus for MAUVAIS is to challenge the fast-fashion industry. Our clothes are designed to last and transverse seasons,” explained Jordan.

MAUVAIS’ vision is to make premium products at an affordable price. “The aim is to have a MAUVAIS item hanging in a store like Selfridges, and not looking out of place next to Gucci or Prada,” he continued.

And much like the fashion house names, MAUVAIS isn’t short of celebrity wearers.

Not only has the brand been endorsed by NBA players and UFC fighters, universally famous actor Jamie Foxx is also a MAUVAIS fan.

Recently, Jordan and Jamie video-called ahead of Foxx’s birthday.

“It was a surreal and motivating experience. Jamie wanted some MAUVAIS items delivered same-day to Paris to wear for his birthday, which we achieved,” shared Jordan. Happy Jamie, happy MAUVAIS!

As reflected by its famous clientele, MAUVAIS has been particularly successful in America.

Paid advertising on social media has formed part of MAUVAIS’ strategy, and has seen the brand achieve 65% of its revenue from the US. 30% comes from the UK, with 5% from the rest of the world.

Jordan also attributes this to its affordable, slim-fitting, smart style not being readily available in the States.

MAUVAIS On Up

Global inflation has seen MAUVAIS’ raw material cost increase by as much as 10%.

“Of course, this has meant making small price increases to our products. The key for us is to be transparent when our customers ask why,” explained Jordan.

To counter the increase, MAUVAIS are looking to offer alternative shipping options for its customers, using economy options where possible.

Despite the challenges in the market, which will no doubt be impacted by the cost of living crisis, MAUVAIS is focussed on growth.

“One of our goals over the next year will be localising each country’s website and creating relatable content for each region,” Jordan shared.

MAUVAIS - FASHION RETAIL

With the acquisition of a new e-commerce manager, MAUVAIS plans to increase conversions on the website, gaining additional revenue whilst minimising advertising costs.

And with the US market securely under its belt, the brand will aim to grow its audience in the UK and Europe.

“Not only will we have a geographical focus, in the next year we also plan to develop our Women’s range which I think is going to be a massive opportunity for the business,” said Jordan.

Having seen such success and growth in the last four years, Jordan is driven to achieve more.

“Within the next few years MAUVAIS will be a truly global brand. I want to build out a large team, and see us achieving a goal of £50 million in revenue,” shared Jordan.

www.mauvais.co.uk

PROMISING MATERIAL, PROMISING FUTURE

With around 5000 employees across its seven manufacturing plants including an R & D facility across Norway and Germany, Speira comes equipped with a century worth of knowledge in its sector.

With 25 years of industry experience at Norsk Hydro and in advising firms under his belt, CEO Einar Glomnes is mobilizing his team to secure Speira’s name as a leading player within the green transition.

Building a Circular World that Works

Speira is an aluminium rolling and recycling company, supplying its products and solutions to a wide range of industries including automotive, beverage can, building and construction, packaging and other industrial goods.

“Together with our customers, we're creating solutions for a constantly evolving market and a sustainable industry. Aluminium is precisely the right material

Spun-out of Europe’s biggest

for this, because the product innovations of today and tomorrow are light, versatile and infinitely recyclable - just like our aluminium,” explained Einar.

Aluminium today is cause and cure to climate change. But Aluminium is core to the green shift. Although it can be an energy intensive product to manufacture, with metal using coalbased power production emitting 20 units of C02 per unit of aluminium, Einar explained that this is all relative to power source.

“When using hydropower, aluminium requires just four units of CO2 per unit of aluminium. And when we create recycled aluminium, it can equate to zero,”.

Speira’s vision is to be a leading player and industry benchmark for sustainability by 2030.

“By using recycled materials, we reduce energy consumption by 95% without compromising on quality or product properties. Our sustainable product ORBIS is third-party certified and uses at least 75% external scrap. Moreover we are able to produce even more sustainable products with a recycled content of 85%,95% or even 100%,” said Einar, “and the good thing is, a used beverage can (UBC) can be made up of recycled materials from a window and a bicycle, for example - this is true circularity!”

aluminium company, Norsk Hydro, Speira is driven by the demands of the globe’s transition to ‘green’.

Speira aluminium can

SPEIRA - WASTE MANAGEMENT

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Speira chemistry lab

Speira colleagues

Taking Sustainability Seriously

When it comes to building a business at the forefront of the green transition, many companies talk the talk, but Speira is truly walking the walk, too.

By 2025, Speira aims to see the use of recycled materials in its products exceed 40%. In addition, as part of its 2030 vision it aims to ensure that all of its aluminium products are fully recovered and recycled.

“We are actively committed to creating a closed-loop material flow,” explained Einar, “we support several initiatives to ensure that more aluminium products are properly recycled at the end of their life. Innovative sorting and recycling technologies as well as close collaboration with our direct customers across industries will help us on this journey”.

Speira also sees transparency as key to

delivering sustainability. To fulfil this, it has achieved certifications in Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Performance Standard, ASI Chain of Custody Standard, ISOs 9001, 14001, 45001, 50001, and the International Automotive Task Force (IATF).

Be The Change You Want To See

Both Speira and Einar pride themselves on the fact that the business offers real people real jobs, which enables them to contribute positively to the decarbonization of our business and the societies we are part of, daily.

“The carve out of Speira from Norsk Hydro served as an excellent learning experience and team building activity,” shared Einar, “it has enabled us to build a strong identity and has brought the team together. Now, we know we can work together to create incredible things”.

SPEIRA - WASTE MANAGEMENT

Einar truly believes in authentic leadership always focusing more on asking – the right – questions rather than giving answers. “I truly believe in the capabilities and dedication of our people. My role as CEO is to support my team and the organization to drive our transformation and develop our company culture further. I truly believe in the success of wellfunctioning teams, strong ownership for results and taking the initiative to win. All of this has its roots in the trust in each other and in our strength and capabilities,” Einar explains.

With the recent acquisition of the European assets of Real Alloy, Speira faces the opportunity of integrating an additional 500 colleagues into the business in 2023. There is further great potential for Speira from the buy-out, not only from the acquisition of an additional three manufacturing sites in Germany and two Norway.

“The big win is the additional competence and years of experience we will obtain from our new colleagues from Real Alloy. We hope this will bolster our ambitions to develop our product portfolio further and base it on even more recycled metal,” said Einar.

The acquisition of Real Alloy will also push to establish Speira as a leading supplier of high-quality, low carbon metal based on recycling.

The focus for the coming months will be to meet customer demands without overstretching the business.

“Although global supply chain issues are calming, we need to secure our position and manage the risks. So far, we have been very successful at this, and within the next 12-18 months I see Speira being in a strong position, with the ability to take on both smaller and larger growth projects,” Einar closes.

www.speira.com

Speira recycling

CHANGING THE FUTURE, RIGHT ON TIME

The contract research organisation (CRO) works with clinical trial sponsors to undertake pivotal phase 2 and 3 clinical trials in life changing therapeutic areas. This includes inflammatory bowel diseases, oncology, hematology, infectious disease, multiple sclerosis and rare diseases.

Setting PSI CRO apart from its competitors is its ability to plan and execute complex clinical trials on time. And, as everyone knows. Time equals money.

Describing itself as being “obsessed with timelines” PSI CRO is known for “coming to the rescue when trials fall behind and sponsors have to start from scratch”.

Meeting deadlines and enrollment milestones without failure has enabled PSI CRO to build valuable relationships with biotech sponsors. Around 90% of customers are either repeat or referral.

PSI CRO

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PSI CRO’s success has led it to build a global network of offices and research centers in over 50 countries. With 2000 employees across North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific, the CRO is dedicated to providing the same service no matter the location.

In 2022 the business was honoured for the fourth year in a row as one of the Best Places to Work.

With 25 years in the industry, accruing a wealth of respect, PSI CRO are committed to the timely delivery of vital clinical trials across the world.

PSI CRO (King of Prussia) received the award from the Philadelphia Business Journal for beating 76 companies in the top spot.

“Winning this region is no small feat. King of Prussia is home to several of the top clinical research, healthcare, and biotech companies,” the business shared on its website.

Culture is of top priority to PSI, which follows seven core values:

• Delivering Wow Service

• Being a Teammate

• Practicing Accountability

• Delivering Results

• Excelling in Communication

• Being Excellent & Humble

• Staying Lean

With plans for continued organic growth, these values will enable PSI CRO to continue to offer its world-class dedication to customer service.

In the same year, PSI CRO was also named a 2022 CRO Leadership Award Champion for the fifth year in a row. For 2022 this was in the categories of Compatibility, Quality, and Reliability across two respondent groups (Overall and Small Pharma). Winners in these categories are judged by their customers as having exceeded their expectations.

Stated on its website, PSI CRO’s President, Nick Sinackevich said “Our mission is to be the best CRO in the world as measured by our employees, clients, sites, and vendors. Our continuing success in the CRO Leadership Awards is an important benchmark for this goal and a testament to the tireless work of our teams around the world.”

Most recently, the CRO has published a new report on the future of oncology clinical research: Preparing for the Future of Oncology Clinical Research.

Co-authored by PSI’s Dr. Maxim Kosov, Senior Medical Advisor, Operations, and Dr. Victor Zenzola de Toma, Medical Monitor, the paper provides essential insights for sponsors into the trends with the greatest potential to affect clinical trial design and operationalisation.

Highlighted in the report are general trends in oncology, therapeutic advances in the most challenging indications, and additional research highlights in gastrointestinal, gynecological, and genitourinary cancers as well as pediatric oncology and rare disease.

“Oncology studies face unique challenges due to their expansive geographic footprints, lengthy screening and treatment durations, and massive amounts of clinical data,” said Dr. Kosov on PSI CRO’s website, “As the need for oncology clinical trials persists and grows, PSI CRO is committed to keeping abreast of the latest scientific advances and partnering with the companies and investigators doing the most exciting work across the wide range of oncology diseases”.

www.psi-cro.com

TRANSFORMING RESEARCH, TRANSFORMING LIVES

With a global footprint of both centralised and speciality labs, Cerba Research is having a transformative impact on both healthcare providers and its patients.

The business is also undertaking its own transformation, as it undergoes a rebrand following its acquisition of Viroclinics-DDL.

“Transforming Research and Advancing Health For You”

Cerba Research is on a mission to leverage patient data and scientific insight to shape and advance clinical trials.

“We provide customised laboratory solutions to support global biotech, pharma, IVD, research organisations and NGOs to improve the lives of patients around the world,” explained CEO Mario Papillon.

With its headquarters in Belgium, Cerba research has a network of laboratories across five continents, spanning the US, Australia, Taiwan, China, South Africa, the Netherlands, Belgium and France.

In the time since its establishment in 1967, the group Cerba, and its clinical trials lab business, Cerba Research have grown organically and via a series of acquisitions and partnerships. The last five years has seen the biggest period of diversification.

In addition to continually growing the business through acquisitions of medical laboratories in Europe and Africa, Mario foresees further technological developments for the business.

“Firstly, we are currently undergoing a digital transformation which will see improved access and functionality of

logistics, ordering, results and reporting,” shared Mario, “we’ve also seen exciting developments working with NanoString, which enables us to do 3D assessment of biomarkers on biopsies”.

As well as these developments, Cerba Research is investing in a track and trace system for samples, and has had success with an expansive 40-colour measuring platform for white blood cell analysis.

Cerba Research plans to work with more partner laboratories whilst seeking to make more acquisitions in areas of demand.

It may seem tedious to once again mention the Covid pandemic in relation to business. But, when discussing Cerba Research, an innovative company providing world-class clinical trials it would be nonsensical not to mention the impact the business has had. CERBA

In February 2022, Cerba Research acquired world leading diagnostic and clinical trial operation services, ViroclinicsDLL.

The acquisition has enabled Cerba Research to expand its solutions, offering its clients unparalleled scientific expertise.

Whilst Viroclinics-DLL currently sits within Cerba Research, the finalised merger

PROJECT DIRECTED BY: JAMIE WAITE ARTICLE WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING

process will see the businesses become one. A rebrand in association with the merger will see the business adopt a new tag line - “Transforming Research and Advancing Health For You”.

“We are proud of the acquisition and merger,” said Mario, “whilst we are faced with the challenge of ensuring all of our laboratories and capabilities are integrated, we always ensure the entire team are onboard and involved”.

The Importance of Individuality

Cerba Research’s specialities include studies in oncology and immunooncology, metabolic diseases, virology and infectious disease, inflammatory and autoimmune disease, neurology, and rare diseases.

In addition, its services include expanded central lab, biomarker, IVD, and CDx offerings, as well as support from research

Our DNA

At Cerba Research, you’ll work one on one with experienced scientists committed to helping you succeed. See how our unique values, global footprint, and leadership drive us.

Lab Solutions

From your central lab and biobank to biomarkers to in vitro and companion diagnostics, Cerba Research has the global diagnostic labs and custom assay development expertise to serve all your research needs.

and development through clinical studies and commercialisation of therapies.

In general, it runs 350 trials a year, with the incorporation of 100 new trials per year. In addition, Cerba Research can leverage the data from the Cerba group medical laboratories which see around 45 million patients annually.

“With the vast amount of data we are able to study and collate, we see future opportunities in predictive and personalised medication,” said Mario.

For Cerba Research, uniqueness goes beyond the patient. “We believe in individuality, and not “one size fits all”. We pride ourselves on our flexibility and ability to adapt to the specific needs of and challenges for a client,” shared Mario.

For Mario, this expands to his colleagues, too.

Mario describes the Cerba Research team as “very entrepreneurial” and says there are shared values of “commitment, excellence and boldness,”.

“It is important that our colleagues feel that they are not working in the company, but working on it,” explained Mario, “the transformation of the company is very much owned by its people”.

Colleagues at Cerba Research have the opportunity to develop themselves and their career path, whether that is based

Advanced Testing

Our accurate laboratories and scientific insights accelerate your trial with key diagnostic solutions, such as NGS, NASH studies, IHC staining, and biomarker strategies.

on capabilities or country. Mario has experienced this himself whilst working at the company.

During his time at the business, Mario has had the opportunity to work in Canada, the US, the UK, Switzerland and Eastern Europe (in which he developed the offices). For the last five years he has been based out of the Belgian HQ.

“This has taught me the ability to adapt to the environment and its people. I have to understand when I need to be a mentor, a coach, an orator or a leader to get the best out of my colleagues. Again, one size doesn’t fit all,” he said, “my aim is to build and develop a team. In the long term, you only win as a team”.

A Lasting Impact

As a business within the clinical trials sector, it has many projects to be proud of.

Cerba Research’s virology arm has worked on ground-breaking anti-infective treatment for diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and influenza. This work has been particularly meaningful across Africa.

“Our strong presence in South Africa, one of the eight countries that account for two-thirds of new TB cases, highlights our commitment to lowering the global TB burden,” said Mario.

Cerba Research is also currently embarking on a project with one of

the world’s biggest pharmaceutical companies to develop a new polio vaccine.

“We are one of the only facilities in the world to be able to take on a study like this,” shared Mario, highlighting the wealth of variety the business can provide.

“Cerba Research has also collaborated with a client to publish a new assay for peer review,” he continued, “this process was then transferred to one of our partners in China for drug development. We’re very proud of the work we are doing with this client and our partner,”.

Of course, as one of the world’s leading clinical development partners, Cerba Research had an important part to play during the Covid pandemic.

The business undertook fast growth to support the necessary trials to combat the outbreak. On the other hand, it saw a huge slowdown in other studies enrolling, for example in oncology.

“We had to think outside the box during this period, and provide help where we could. One way in which we did this was by distributing test kits and analysing samples,” shared Mario.

The Covid journey is not over, and now, Cerba Research is undertaking clinical trials in the US for a new drug.

As the world recovers from the pandemic, the fight certainly isn’t over. But, with an innovative and transformative company such as Cerba Research leading the battle, there is hope for us all, no matter the aggressor.

www.cerbaresearch.com

BUILDING THE SENEGAL OF TOMORROW

Established in France in 1860, FAMY’s historical footprint brings with it years of experience and knowledge in quarrying, earthworks and demolition activities.

Now its own entity, the construction firm has been present in Senegal since 2012, with a 130 strong team of industry experts, based across 7 sites.

With large scale projects on the books for FAMY SN and a turnover of 8 million CFA francs, it is clearly a partner of choice for construction projects in the country.

“Clients want to work with us because we have a wealth of experience and expertise. Our accomplishments in roads, mining and sanitation set us apart from the rest,” shared FAMY SN President, Jeannie Cointre.

A Slam Dunk

Leading the Senegalese operation is an entrepreneur who credits her unique background to her leadership style.

Starting her professional life as a basketball player, Jeannie went on to work in finance, taking on roles at Crédit Agricole, the European Centre for Nuclear Research, and investment boutique Westmount Capital. The latter business is where she built her relationship with and understanding of FAMY SN.

“My sporting background has helped to develop my taste for effort and self-sacrifice,” Jeannie explained, “it’s important for me to be supported by the team, my collaborators and mentors, and to have their confidence”.

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Born out of the French company, FAMY S.A.S, FAMY SN is one of the major players in the Senegalese construction industry.

FAMY SN PROJECT

She also noted the importance of allowing failures to become positives, with the ability and agility to bounce back.

“To quote Nelson Mandela, “I never lose, either I win or I learn”. That is critical for both myself and my colleagues to progress,” she shared.

Driving “-Isations”

Passionate about cybersecurity, Jeannie also sits on the Board of Directors of DigiVolution. The Swiss foundation has been established to support and strengthen businesses and institutions in anticipating and mastering the challenges of digital transformation.

It is appropriate then that Jeannie is driving both digitisation and feminisation of roles within FAMY SN.

“The construction industry is entering a period of digitisation and it is therefore opening up more opportunities for women in the construction sector,” explained Jeannie.

New opportunities include the analysis of data collected by drones, as well as the protection of such data, and the automation of repetitive tasks. Not only is this digital transformation opening up new roles, it is also adding value and making processes more efficient.

“The challenge we have now is training and integrating women into the sector. Showing them the opportunities and enabling them to aspire to a career in construction,” said Jeannie, “our ambition is to set up a Foundation and training programmes to facilitate this”.

Currently, FAMY SN is in conversation with the engineering department of Egletons (part of ESITC Paris) to create a training programme which combines both theoretical and practical knowledge.

Whilst digitisation is high on the agenda for FAMY SN, it recognises that digital technologies come with increased energy consumption. Therefore, appropriate strategies need to be implemented to combat a rise in carbon emissions.

“We want to support our partners in reducing their carbon impact throughout their production chains. This is an industry wide challenge, and so we believe companies will need to work together to create an alliance of best practice,” explained Jeannie.

Proposed measures include monitoring electronic waste, supporting recycling and reuse, the promotion of reconditioned equipment, and the reduction of inefficient applications.

FAMY SN - CONSTRUCTION

Playing its Part

Jeannie was brought into the business during a change of FAMY SN’s governance, in response to reengagement of the diaspora on the African continent. Now, Jeannie and her team are on a mission to build the Senegal of tomorrow.

The business forecasts growth opportunities within the next few years in Sub-Saharan Africa. With the middleclass consumer market growing rapidly, FAMY SN foresees that infrastructure development will play a major role in this transformation.

“According to estimates by the African Development Bank, the continent’s infrastructure needs are between $130 and $170 billion per year,” explained Jeannie.

There are already plans for several, largescale projects within Senegal, such as the Train Express Regional (TER), an airport rail link connecting Senegal’s capital, Dakar, with the Blaise Diagne International Airport.

As well as this, there are opportunities for FAMY SN within the Saint Louis highway, the desalination plant, the Bus Rapid Transit and the Port of N’dayane.

Along with the growth which will come with the wider transformative plans in Senegal, FAMY SN has a vision to grow via strategic acquisition.

“The intention of these acquisitions will be to allow us to develop a more valuable offering for our clients, as well as developing transversal synergies,” said Jeannie.

Finishing up her conversation with Business Enquirier, Jeannie shared the ultimate goal:

“Be the change you want to see in the world”.

www.famy.fr

Simon & Christiansen’s presence in Africa dates back to the 1980s. It was in this context that the engineering consulting firm SC Afrique was founded in 2003. Thanks to its multidisciplinary skills, the team on site is able to take charge of all types of studies or projects in areas such as: construction management, project management, infrastructure studies (roads, motorways and engineering structures), drinking water resources, environment, urban planning and topography.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

TOPOGRAPHY

Equipped with about 20 GNSS (global navigation satellite system) receivers, high-precision total stations, electronic levels, as well as two drones and a bathymetric system, our teams carry out field surveys

PROJECT MANAGEMENT, ASSISTANCE TO PROJECT OWNER, DELEGATED PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Our expertise and know-how are recognised by the clients who call on us for assistance or delegation.

MISSION DE CONTRÔLE ET SURVEILLANCE DES TRAVAUX

On behalf of the project owners, we ensure the control and supervision of work, in particular for major infrastructure projects.

ANALYSIS OF ENGINEERING STRUCTURES

Discover our stability studies for engineering structures. With the support of structural engineers based in Luxembourg, we compile construction documents for bridges, hydraulic structures, footbridges and viaducts.

SC Afrique S.A.

Ouakam Dakar, Peytavin

BP 11268 Dakar

Senegal +221 338 601 530

contact@scafrique.com

ANALYSIS OF LINEAR INFRASTRUCTURES

Our engineers carry out feasibility studies, preliminary summary design, preliminary final design and the execution of road, highway or sanitation projects.

ROADWORKS AND RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE

Our department specialised in roadworks and related infrastructure studies compiles all the analyses necessary for the construction of housing estates, hotels, logistic platforms, service areas and toll stations.

Inaugurated under Napoleon III, the InterContinental Paris le Grand is located in the heart of Paris, offering guests a magnificent view of the Opera Garnier.

This 5-star hotel boasts rooms and suites decorated in a Second Empire style infused with contemporary touches and unique reception venues. The Café de la Paix, Parisian institution within the hotel, serves the great classics of French gastronomy.

parislegrand.intercontinental.com

legrand@ihg.com

(+33) 1 40 07 32 32

2, rue Scribe 75009 Paris