Business Enquirer Magazine | Issue 123 | March 2024

AL ISLAMI FOOD

A STORY OF CONTINUED GROWTH FOR LEADING HALAL FOOD PRODUCER

OLIVE ENERGY

ENRICHING AFRICA’S ENERGY SECTOR

MEDIA

Jamie Waite

Group CEO, Be Media jamie.waite@busenq.com

Harvey Coe

Project Director harvey.coe@busenq.com

Bryonie Knowles

Project Director b.knowles@busenq.com

Lisa Maxwell

Project Director lisa.maxwell@busenq.com

Gary Smith

Senior Project Director gary.smith@busenq.com

Jess Collins

Project Director jess.collins@busenq.com

Reece Plane

Project Director reece.plane@busenq.com

Kelly Darling

Project Director kelly.darling@busenq.com

Izzy Hardy

Project Director izzy.hardy@busenq.com

Adel Mhiri

Project Director adel.m@busenq.com

Oleksandryna Alina

Project Director oleksandryna.alina@busenq.com

Kelly-Ann Darling

Project Director kelly.darling@busenq.com

Greg Churchill

Project Director greg.churchill@busenq.com

Paris Cressy

Branding & Marketing Executive paris.cressy@busenq.com

EDITORIAL FINANCE

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

Simon Ferrening Production Manager Commercial Performance Analysis

SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM

Anita Terrell

Social Media Manager anita.terrell@busenq.com

Lee Dixon

Social Media Manager lee.dixon@busenq.com

HR

Susan Tumelty

HR Partnered Company info@hrdept.co.uk

LEGAL

Chloe Bird Birketts LLP Norwich

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

Carol Gibson Lead Editor carol.gibson@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

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

Shah Abbas

Head of Video & Content Creation shah.abbas@busenq.com

Matt Hardwick

Online Website Manager matt.hardwick@busenq.com

DESIGN WEBSITE PHOTOGRAPHY

Didie Nturo Lead Photographer didie.nturo@busenq.com

Welcome to the March 2024 edition of Business Enquirer - Issue 123.

Inthisedition,wearehonouredtofeaturetheremarkablejourneysofAl IslamiFoods,Fontayne,Vexos,andseveralothergloballeaders,whose innovativeprowessandunwaveringdedicationilluminatepathsof inspiration.

AlIslamiFoodsinvitesusintotherealmofhalalfoodsolutions,where traditionmeetsinnovationonaglobalscale.Wedelveintotheir commitmenttoexcellenceandsustainablepractices,illuminatingtheir roleaspioneersinthehalalindustry.

Fontayne,arenownedfigureinthedesignandbrandingsphere,offers auniqueperspectiveshapedbytheirspecialisationinprovidingand deliveringequipment, components,parts,andlogisticsservicestothe Ports,Terminals&Maritimeindustry.Withnearlyadecadeofexperience insupplyingtailoredandessentialpartsandcomponentstothissector, Fontaynehascultivatedastrongreputationasadependablepartnerto clientsglobally.

Vexostakesusonacaptivatingjourneythroughtherealmofelectronic manufacturingservices,showcasingtheirpivotalroleindeliveringcuttingedgesolutionstoglobalcustomers.Weunraveltheirvisionforinnovation andtheirunwaveringcommitmenttoexceedingindustrystandards.

BusinessEnquirerhadtheprivilegeofengagingwithrepresentatives fromeachoftheseesteemedcompanies,gaininginvaluableinsightsinto theirstrategies,challenges,andaspirations.Theirstoriesreflectadeepseatedcommitmenttoexcellenceandarelentlesspursuitofinnovation, inspiringusall.

Thesenarrativesrepresentjustaglimpseofthecompellingstorieswithin thisedition.Eacharticleextensivelyexploresthevision,proficiency,and unwaveringcommitmenttoexcellencethatdefinethesebusinesses, leavinganindeliblemarkontheirrespectiveindustries.

Weinviteyoutoimmerseyourselfinthesestoriesoftriumphand transformation,trustingthattheywillinspireandinvigorateyouasmuch astheyhaveinspiredusinbringingthemtoyouinthisMarchissueof BusinessEnquirer.

If you have a business story you wish to share in 2024, please contact our Head of Production via production@busenq.com

A WORD FROM OUR TEAM FOLLOW US

Laura Watling Editor in Chief

Jamie Bolton Head of Design

The

All

CO-OP EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH TCS WITH A CLOUD-FIRST STRATEGY TO SUPPORT ITS BUSINESS GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY ROADMAP

INTERSEC 2024 020

ADVANCING GLOBAL FIRE SAFETY: INSIGHTS FROM THE FIRE & RESCUE CONFERENCE AT INTERSEC 2024

AMMAT 038

FUELLING THE FUTURE OF AFRICA

FONTAYNE INTERNATIONAL 056

SUPPORTING AFRICA’S VALUABLE INDUSTRIES

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BUSINESS PARTNER UPDATES

NEWS 018

PUTTING INSURANCE ON THE RIGHT TRACK: MARSHMALLOW LAUNCHES BILLBOARD CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT IMMIGRANT DRIVERS

OLIVE ENERGY 030

ENRICHING AFRICA’S ENERGY SECTOR

LEKKI PORT 046

LEKKI PORT’S TRIFECTA OF GROWTH: A BEACON FOR INVESTMENT IN 2024

VEXOS 066

INCREASING BUSINESS DEMANDS DRIVE GROWTH OF EMS COMPANIES

BOLLE SAFETY 074

AN EYE FOR STYLE, SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY: THE PPE EYEWEAR COMPANY TICKING ALL THE BOXES

PROCELL 082 INTERNATIONAL HOTEL GROUP

THE HEART OF EUROPE AND IHG HOTELS & RESORTS PARTNER TO BRING THE FIRST INTERCONTINENTAL RESORT TO DUBAI

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN

IN THE BOARDROOM WITH PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN

THE HIDDEN HERO IN YOUR BUSINESS

GHITHA 106

GHITHA ANNOUNCES STRONG MARKET EXPANSION AND OPERATIONAL SUCCESS

THE HEART OF EUROPE AND IHG HOTELS & RESORTS PARTNER TO BRING THE FIRST INTERCONTINENTAL RESORT TO DUBAI

The new 466-key InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe will open its doors in early 2026 on The World Islands Dubai, strengthening IHG Hotels & Resorts luxury and leisure portfolio in the region

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 20 February 2024: The Heart of Europe, the flagship project of Kleindienst Group, signed an agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, to launch and manage the InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe on The World Islands, Dubai. The signing marks the first resort property in Dubai from the iconic InterContinental brand, reaffirming the company’s commitment to bringing luxury experiences across key leisure destinations in the region.

This latest signing strengthens the partnership between the two companies and marks the third hotel to be added to the joint portfolio of IHG Hotels & Resorts and The Heart of Europe. It also complements The Heart of Europe’s principles, embodying The World Islands’ mission to unite global cultures,

bridging diverse backgrounds through its unparalleled global excellence in architecture, development, innovation, and sustainability.

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director –India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with The Heart of Europe to bring our inaugural ‘InterContinental Resort’ in Dubai, marking a milestone in IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Being a one-of-akind first in the emirate, the new resort is poised to redefine the leisure and luxury space in Dubai, promising an immersive experience for all guests.

He added: “We are confident in our partnership with Kleindienst Group in offering unique guest stays within a dynamic location like The Heart of Europe. We look forward to welcoming travellers worldwide upon the hotel’s opening in early 2026.”

Situated at the centre of The World Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Dubai, the upcoming ‘InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe’ will be strategically located in ‘The Heart of Europe,’ a self-sufficient holiday destination spanning six islands. This transformative destination will seamlessly blend European architectural charm with

IHG - HOTEL PARTNER

top-tier hospitality, offering a rejuvenating experience for travellers against the backdrop of tranquil beaches.

Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group and The Heart of Europe, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with one of the globe’s premier hotel brands to introduce an iconic family-focused luxury experience to The World Islands Dubai that perfectly encapsulates our aim to craft a distinctive destination amid Dubai’s iconic landscapes. Our collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts leverages their expertise in luxury and lifestyle to complement our exceptional hospitality at The Heart of Europe. We look forward to welcoming families to an unparalleled hospitality experience, and offering a seamless fusion of Dubai’s rich cultural with cutting edge innovation and ultimate luxury, amidst the scenic beauty of the UAE.”

Currently under construction, InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe is a harmonious blend of contemporary Mediterranean design and traditional Italian influences, inspired by

the vibrant colours and charm of Portofino and the Italian Riviera. The buildings feature colourful facades with balconies, and a mix of modern amenities, including ancient Feng Shui practices to create a calming and inviting atmosphere.

The hotel is scheduled for a grand opening in early 2026 and is set to become a beachfront haven, featuring 466 rooms and suites and offering an array of amenities, including authentic Italian culinary experiences and an atrium showcasing the marine life beauty with floor-to-ceiling aquariums across six floors, forming part of The Heart of Europe Coral Institute, a marine life rehabilitation centre at the forefront of environmental sustainability dedicated to the regeneration of coral reefs and marine life habitats. Furthermore, all units at InterContinental Resort Portofino boast full sea views, immersing guests in the stunning coastal scenery while enjoying the luxurious amenities and experiences offered at this exceptional destination. InterContinental Resort Portofino, The Heart of Europe will also feature a rustic roof garden; a unique experience with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, providing guests with a serene and picturesque setting to relax and unwind. In line with the sustainable ethos of The Heart of Europe, the roof garden will incorporate eco-friendly features as part of creative green spaces and energy-efficient design elements.

To accommodate a wide range of traveller preferences and ensure an inclusive experience for all guests, the upcoming resort will introduce the Kingdom of Portofino—an exclusive area featuring a kids club, kids theatre, and an additional outdoor play and water park for children.

IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 109 hotels across eight brands in the Middle East, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Hotel Indigo, voco and Six Senses.

/www.ihgplc.com

IN THE BOARDROOM WITH PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN

Since 2012, French soccer has been dominated, both on the pitch and off it, by Parisian giants Paris SaintGermain (PSG), a period that began with the 100% purchase of the club by state-backed equity group Qatar Sports Investments (QSI).

QSI’s large-scale investment into the playing side of the club has seen PSG become the record winners of both the country’s Ligue 1 top-tier league, as well as its Coup de France, Trophée des Champions, and now-defunct Coupe de la Ligue cup competitions.

Since the group took control of the club, PSG has won nine of the last 11 Ligue 1 titles and has been a consistent competitor on the continent with one Champions League final appearance and several deep runs in the competition.

The ownership, among the richest of any soccer club, has enabled PSG to attract global stars such as Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, to play for the club, a move that has attracted criticism from its competitors but paid off major dividends for the club in the form of silverware, and commercial income.

Off the pitch, the club has financially dominated the French soccer landscape, becoming a global commercial powerhouse. The financial publication Forbes states that the club is the seventh-most valuable on the planet.

GlobalData Sport analysts estimate that PSG’s sponsorship value sits at $309.23 million annually, by far the biggest in France and almost six times the nearest competitor, this comes despite having a smaller sponsorship portfolio than two other clubs.

PSG’s chief revenue officer Marc Armstrong discusses the club’s recent investment deal and commercial growth.

Speaking at a media session in London, UK, PSG chief revenue officer Marc Armstrong was keen to show the strength of the club’s financial position, especially regarding the position it finds itself in in European soccer.

“When you see the Deloitte Money League, we’re going to have record revenue for [the 2022-23 fiscal year], we’re going to be above $800 million [in revenue] for the first time,” Armstrong says. “That’s huge growth and we’re confident we’ll keep on that trajectory and that growth pattern, so we have to keep driving.”

Armstrong stressed the club’s belief that there is always more to be done, explaining: “We’re confident that we’re in a good place but we have to keep working hard.

“We’re trying new things. We’ve hired a head of Web3 and Metaverse [Pär Helgosson]. We’ve just hired a new chief digital officer from META, previously at Chelsea [Jerry Newman]. We have to keep finding new ways to grow.”

The diversification of revenue streams is of major importance to the club which competes among Europe’s elite both on the pitch and off it but sits in a league that has struggled to financially compete with some of Europe’s other top tier competitions.

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN - SPORT PARTNER

Media Rights

The dire state of the Ligue 1’s media rights landscape has hampered all its sides financially, including PSG.

“If you look at the Deloitte Money League for the 2021-22 season, we were number one for commercial [revenue] and matchday [revenue], and we were number 18 on TV [revenue], and that dragged our average down to number five,” Armstrong explains.

“If we had a similar [TV] deal, or anywhere close to that of the [English] Premier League, we’d be far and away number one, we can’t control that.”

The body in charge of the French league structure, the LFP, is currently in the process of tendering the domestic media rights for Ligue 1. The LFP has, however, been unsuccessful thus far in attracting acceptable offers.

In October, the LFP announced that none of the five bidding lots it had tendered for the rights to the top two leagues had their reserve prices met by the deadline, meaning it is now in individual negotiations to try and cobble together a workable broadcast agreement.

It has been reported that the LFP severely overestimated the value of Ligue 1’s rights and its attractiveness to potential buyers, which leaves its constituent clubs in limbo regarding future TV revenues at a time when many of Europe’s other major leagues continue to have TV deals that exceed Ligue 1’s in value.

“We’re not going to match the Premier League, that’s why we need to grow the things we do control, the sponsorship, merchandising, retail, and stadium revenues,” Armstrong states.

PARTNER UPDATES

Stadium

The 48,583-capacity Parc des Princes has been PSG’s home since the 1970s. However, the consensus in and around the club for several years has been that a higher capacity arena is required to maximize its commercial outlook properly.

The club’s stadium revenues exceeded $150 million for the 2022-23 fiscal year, an impressive figure considering the comparatively low stadium capacity relative to other European soccer giants. It’s a feat only recently matched by FC Barcelona, which boasts more than double the Parc des Princes’ capacity at its Camp Nou stadium.

“48,000 is not enough,” Armstrong stresses. “We have the highest revenue per seat in Europe as of last season, and we’ll be there or thereabouts again this season, but we can do a lot more with a bigger stadium and we should be playing in front of 60,000 or 70,000 fans every week.”

There are several options PSG can take to

bring the club’s stadium revenues forward, but whether or not the more viable options are preferable is a question that lingers at the club.

“Our clear preference is to redevelop the Parc des Princes, to stay where we are,” Armstrong states unequivocally. “It’s our historic home, it’s where we want to be, where the fans want to be. It’s in the city limits of Paris.”

“But it’s not dependent just on us. The city needs to be prepared to sell us the building. We have to own the building.”

PSG is currently the holder of a 30-year lease on the Parc Des Princes that runs until 2043, which it agreed with the stadium’s owner, the Paris City Council.

Despite the lack of permanent ownership over the ground, PSG has invested heavily into it, pouring around $85 million into the stadium in 2015 to enhance its hospitality offering. While the club considered that a manageable enough sum to undertake without full

Far left, PSG’s chief revenue officer Marc Armstrong

ownership given the return on investment, an expansion in the region of 10,00020,000 seats would be too significant a financial undertaking to take on without fully owning the stadium, according to the club.

With Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo stating her objection to any sale of the Parc des Princes, the club has subsequently been left to look elsewhere.

“We’ve been forced to look at other options and that’s how we see it,” Armstrong admits. “We don’t want to move. We want to stay at the Parc des Princes but we have to look and have been looking seriously at other options for the last year.”

PSG does have options in the stadium department. The club has long been rumored to be interested in the purchase of the 81,500 seater Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, however numerous other parties, including world soccer’s governing body FIFA, are also reportedly interested.

There is also the land PSG owns surrounding Poissy, the club’s new training center. “There’s a chance to make [Poissy] into a real hub,” says Armstrong, adding; “It depends where we end up.”

While the Parc des Princes is surrounded by an urban area that would hamper any massive stadium expansion, Poissy is an open area owned by the club that could be rife for development.

“We still want to stay at the Parc des Princes, and if we do it there, we grow more constrained, but the positives of being in our historical home outweigh any negatives,” Armstrong explains.

Private Equity & Internationalization

PSG recently confirmed that US private equity fund Arctos Partners has taken a stake in the French giants, understood by GlobalData to be around 12.5%.

It had been rumored for a while that the club had been interested in the sale of a minority stake, with Armstrong stating

PARTNER UPDATES

that the investment aims to level up the club commercially.

“These people (Arctos) have a history of investing in sports franchises and have great people within their company, within their advisory board, and we think we can work well together to take the business to the next level,” Armstrong says.

Even Ligue 1 itself has sought private equity investment to raise capital. In 2022, the LFP sold a 13% stake in its media rights subsidiary to CVC Capital Partners, in exchange for €1.5 billion ($1.65 billion).

The deal is reported to heavily favor PSG, with as much as 30% of the league’s annual media rights revenue through the venture set to go to the club. This is a figure that will only truly be understood once the current media rights tender is complete.

“I think it was a good result for French football,” Armstrong states, with QSI executive vice president of corporate affairs David Sugden adding: “First and foremost it stopped the bleeding of when Mediapro collapsed. The domestic broadcaster collapsing left a massive hole in French football finances, so to have the CVC deal immediately gave a benefit to plug a gap.”

Although the competitive bidding process featured private equity firms from across the globe, Armstrong stressed the impact that Arctos’ expertise can have on the club’s attempts to tackle the US, one of its key target markets.

Although PSG has not undertaken a tour of the US since 2017, Armstrong has reiterated the importance the country holds in its strategy, saying: “We would rather go back sooner than later because of the strategic importance especially

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN - SPORT PARTNER

[with the Arctos investment], with the [PSG] stores there, we have so many partners there.”

The other prominent target market the club has focused on is the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

The club has an office in Singapore that manages its operations in the region, with smaller satellite offices in Shanghai, China, and Tokyo, Japan, and aims to open a third in Seoul, South Korea to further its Asian expansion.

Asia has proven a breakout market for PSG with the club securing several deals in the region, powered by the popularity of South Korean superstar Kang-In Lee.

Lee, despite only signing for the club in July 2023, is already the second-biggest jersey seller at the club and has attracted soccer fans to travel to Paris from Korea to see him at games.

“The impact of Kang-In has been phenomenal,” Armstrong illustrates. “Within weeks of his signing, we added a [South] Korean game to our [preseason] Japanese tour and turned what was already a very lucrative and recordbreaking tour into an even better one financially.”

Around 70% of the club’s e-commerce business in July was from Korea, with the new kit released a month prior going on to become their best-selling home jersey ever.

The club is already preparing to open a new store in South Korea in January 2024, to complement its four other global locations, including Tokyo, entrenching its presence in the APAC market and the value its revenue streams hold to such a major club. en.news.psg.fr

CO-OP EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH TCS WITH A CLOUD-FIRST STRATEGY TO SUPPORT ITS BUSINESS GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY ROADMAP

Expansion of 14-year partnership to focus on Co-op’s IT infrastructure using the TCS Enterprise Cloud

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS) has expanded its partnership with The Co-operative Group Limited (Co-op), one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services, to adopt a cloud first strategy that will support the group’s business growth.

TCS has been the strategic partner to Co-op for the past 14 years, supporting a number of business-critical and workplace transformations. These include their retail business transformation, core system transformation and franchise programme. These initiatives have helped Co-op accelerate time to market, create new revenue streams, and enhance agility to respond in real time to emerging business scenarios.

The expanded partnership will see TCS help Co-op move from a traditional data centre model to a fully managed, scalable cloud environment powered by TCS Enterprise Cloud. This migration to a scalable cloud will help Co-op by enabling a foundation for future capabilities and growth, while reducing energy usage and supporting sustainability goals. TCS will also manage the hybrid cloud and SaaS estate for enhanced resilience and agility.

Rob Elsey, CDIO, The Co-operative Group, said: “We are delighted to extend our strategic partnership with TCS in enabling us to meet Co-op’s business objectives and serving and supporting our memberowners who are at the very heart of our business. They have been a great partner, aligned with our growth priorities and future-proofed our infrastructure as we set on the course for continued future expansion – supporting change and transformation in how we work as a business and in our cloud journey.”

Shekar Krishnan, Head, Retail & CPG – UK & Europe, TCS, said: “TCS is pleased to expand our long-standing partnership

with The Co-operative Group. Our contextual knowledge, deep domain expertise, and technology prowess will help Co-op achieve their cloud-first strategy and result in a resilient digital foundation to support their business growth.”

TCS is one of the largest providers of IT services, consulting, and business solutions in the UK, by revenue. It has operated in the region for more than 45 years and works with over 200 of the nation’s best-known and most-loved businesses. It currently employs more than 23,000 people in the UK and Ireland, making it among the region’s biggest IT employers. TCS has been ranked the number one IT service provider for customer satisfaction in the UK in an independent survey of CIOs from the largest IT spending organizations in the country.

About Co-op

Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance, and legal services. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates over 2,400 food stores, over 800 funeral homes and provides products to over 5,000 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited. Employing almost 60,000 people, the Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11billion and is a recognised leader for its social goals and community-led programmes. The Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and stand up for the things they believe in.

About Tata Consultancy Services

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 55 years. Its consultingled, cognitive powered, portfolio of business, technology and engineering services and solutions is delivered through its unique Location Independent Agile™ delivery model, recognized as a benchmark of excellence in software development.

A part of the Tata group, India's largest multinational business group, TCS has over 603,305 of the world’s best-trained consultants in 55 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $27.9 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, and is listed on the BSE and the NSE in India. TCS' proactive stance on climate change and award-winning work with communities across the world have earned it a place in leading sustainability indices such as the MSCI Global Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good Emerging Index.

For more information, visit www.tcs. com

PUTTING INSURANCE ON THE RIGHT TRACK: MARSHMALLOW LAUNCHES BILLBOARD CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT IMMIGRANT DRIVERS

Abillboard proclaiming “immigrants wanted” was driven through London yesterday (21st February). The billboard and other giant ads were installed by Marshmallow, a car insurance brand focused on providing fairer quotes to newcomers to UK shores.

Insurance companies have historically viewed people that move from overseas as increased risks. Many don’t take into account any previous driving experience from other countries. Whereas Marshmallow takes into consideration their full driving history, quoting up to £300 less for those who've been in the UK less than three years, when compared to other insurers.

Also, despite being viewed as increased risks, Marshmallow data shows, in fact, that new to the UK drivers and UK born drivers have a remarkably similar collision rate.

Marshmallow was founded in 2017 by twin brothers Oliver and Alexander Kent-Braham and David Goaté. They started the business after finding out how unfair insurance prices were for people who moved to the UK.

This lack of access doesn’t just sit in insurance, it’s a problem across financial services making it incredibly hard and expensive for these people to keep moving with their lives.

Marshmallow helps migrants get on the road quickly by recognising the international driving experience that many of its competitors ignore. Since launching the business, it has sold over 500,000 policies, with 70% of new customers in 2023 being from overseas.

By leveraging data and proprietary technology, Marshmallow now helps hundreds of thousands of UK newcomers get a fairer deal on their car insurance. After becoming a leading insurer for UK newcomers, Marshmallow’s business grew to achieve unicorn status (when valued at a billion dollars in 2021).

The advertising van, billboards and posters are part of a campaign to celebrate newcomers to the UK. The work leads with an ad van proclaiming “Immigrants wanted” and posters celebrating the diverse variation of newcomers and their arrival in the UK. The billboards state ‘they keep the UK moving, so we (Marshmallow) keep them moving’.

Marshmallow founder, Oliver KentBraham said, “'Our customers come here from all over the world, for many different reasons. But when they get to the UK, they find it much harder to get access to things that UK nationals might take for granted, like credit and insurance.

Layer on top the current political climate and it's only making things harder and less desirable for people to want to choose the UK.”

The campaign was developed by Uncommon Experience Studio, a creative agency that helps build brands with a social purpose.

Ben Golik, Creative Founder, Uncommon Experience Studio, said; “Newcomers have always brought so much to the UK, and yet so many seek to demonise the word "immigrant". This was an important opportunity to put out a positive message that values newcomers and what they bring."

For more information, visit marshmallow.com

ADVANCING GLOBAL FIRE

SAFETY: INSIGHTS FROM THE FIRE & RESCUE CONFERENCE AT INTERSEC 2024

The Fire & Rescue Conference, a pivotal component of the esteemed Intersec event, has once again solidified its position as a premier gathering for global leaders in fire and emergency services. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates, renowned for its forward-thinking initiatives, the conference underscores the nation's unwavering commitment to fire safety and prevention. This commitment manifests through the adoption of intelligent fire protection systems, harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, data analysis, and automation to enhance response times and optimize resources.

At the heart of the conference lies a platform for discussions spanning a wide array of topics, ranging from emergency response planning and management to the latest advancements in firefighting technologies. Particularly emphasized are strategies for addressing the unique challenges posed by high-rise structures and critical infrastructure. By convening experts and stakeholders from across the globe, the conference fosters an environment of collaboration aimed at bolstering fire protection and safety worldwide.

The 2024 edition of the conference distinguishes itself with a comprehensive agenda encompassing pivotal themes such as building fire safety and compliance, industrial firefighting and hazmat response, innovations in fire prevention and detection, and the intersection of climate change with fire preparedness. Supported by esteemed speakers like Robert (Bob) Rea and Major Essa Al Mutawaa, among others, the event features insightful discussions and thought-provoking panel sessions.

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INTERSEC 2024

Noteworthy sessions include Major Essa Al Mutawaa's keynote address and panel discussions on revolutionizing fire prevention with data analytics and technology. These sessions underscore the UAE's leadership in embracing and advocating for advanced safety solutions. Additionally, case studies examining disaster and emergency planning in Ukraine and drawing lessons from the Grenfell Tower tragedy offer valuable insights and learning opportunities for attendees.

Specialized areas are also addressed, including the importance of fire safety in green building designs, challenges and solutions related to electric vehicles in parking garages, and the role of building information modeling (BIM) in fire safety. Moreover, the conference explores the broader impacts of global trends like climate change on firefighting strategies and emphasizes the significance of community engagement and education in enhancing fire safety measures.

The Fire & Rescue Conference at Intersec 2024 serves as a testament to the UAE's dedication to safety and innovation while acting as a catalyst for international collaboration and progress in the realm of fire safety and emergency services. By facilitating dialogue among experts, policymakers, and practitioners, the event fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas and best practices, significantly contributing to the advancement of fire protection standards globally.

In conclusion, the Fire & Rescue Conference remains an indispensable event for stakeholders in fire safety and emergency services, offering unparalleled opportunities to learn from industry leaders, network with peers, and stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies. The insights and collaborations forged at this conference are poised to shape the future of fire safety, fortifying communities worldwide against the threats of fire and emergencies.

www.intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com

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ENRICHING AFRICA’S ENERGY SECTOR

OLIVE ENERGY

PROJECT DIRECTED BY: JAMIE WAITE

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING

Based in the Republic of Congo, Olive Energy provides integrated oilfield services, utilising niche technologies and expertise adapted to suit the complex and challenging environment of the region.

The business is led by CEO and Founder, Dr Ahmed Ouenes, who instills an innovative approach to the business, having previously established multiple software start-ups specialised in the development of new reservoir modeling technologies.

Leading by Example

Ensuring it is able to seize opportunities across Africa, Olive Energy boasts its own drilling equipment, high pressure pumping fleet for hydraulic fracturing, and all the production equipment required to turn opportunities into production that will be processed by micro refineries.

“We enable the much needed provision of refined products to local African markets,” shared Ahmed when speaking with Business Enquirer, “we are also fortunate and grateful to have unconventional financial partners dedicated to Africa development, which provide the necessary means to execute integrated projects that help throughout the whole lifecycle from exploration all the way to selling refined products” he continued.

As Africa shifts further towards the use of gas, Olive Energy is currently working on new integrated technologies and processes that allow the exploration, production, transport, and processing of gas resources for Africa’s needs at a lower cost.

“Africa gas development needs small scale modular robust technologies that allow

incremental gains,” said Ahmed, “A good example of such technologies includes the revalorization and monetisation of flared gas which is one of our priorities”.

With this in mind, Olive Energy uses the Scrum Field Development approach, which it has implemented in all of its African projects. Much like in its software development efforts, with this approach large gas projects are divided into small sprints, where tangible results that benefit the people are achieved every six months.

Olive Energy’s business model in Africa is to partner with national oil companies, such as the SNPC, by providing turnkey solutions to develop their resources or to partner with them in developing new ones.

“The experience with the SNPC and our five wells turn-key project in the giant unconventional MKB field has successfully demonstrated that this business model could create a win-win partnership that benefits all stakeholders,” shared Ahmed, “this partnership enables us to bring advanced US technologies and unconventional financial resources to Africa, supporting the continent’s economic development”.

By Africans, For Africans

Forming the backbone of Olive Energy’s vision is a motivation to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of Africa.

Olive Energy’s ESG strategy focuses on providing clean water, healthcare to women and children, and micro-grants to allow women and young entrepreneurs to start business to sustain their families and create jobs.

Since its employment, the strategy is proving successful, having already seen a significant impact, particularly on women, as well as unemployed young people who are now thriving in new businesses.

“Not only did we help launch these businesses, we continue to offer our support to them, to build a valuable economic ecosystem,” shared Ahmed.

A business described as being ‘By Africans, For Africans’, Olive Energy commits to truly allow the transition from the reliance on foreign aid to developing the African skills and the businesses needed to develop the continent.

“This can only be achieved by a new generation of young Africans rising to the occasion. This new generation needs mentoring and hands-on practice and knowledge-sharing to facilitate this generational transformation” Ahmed added.

In the oil and gas sector, Ahmed believes that Africans around the world can continue to make a major impact on this initiative, by sharing their personal experience with the new generation that are “hungry for knowledge and work”.

Evolution, not a Revolution

“Humanity has been continuously living through the energy transition. Humans transitioned from wood to coal during the industrial revolution, then they transitioned from coal to petroleum in the early 20th century and today we are slowly transitioning to other forms of energy while still using coal to produce more than 30% of the electricity in most of the developing countries. So, in energy use, it is an evolution not a revolution,” stated Ahmed.

Olive Energy is participating in this evolution by focusing on the use of natural gas to support the people of Africa. It is also pursuing the use of geothermal energy in East Africa to produce electricity.

By leveraging its drilling and hydraulic fracturing equipment and experience, Olive Energy is vetting multiple geothermal projects to pursue in the near future.

“This is the continent with the lowest life expectancy, and where more than half of households are without electricity,

OLIVE ENERGY

forcing people to use desperate means such as cutting down trees to cook their meals. Through our environmentally responsible oil and gas activities, we create opportunities to lift families from poverty by giving them the means and the knowhow to become self-reliant,” explained Ahmed.

As well as its focus on developing sustainability in both its business and in Africa, Olive Energy is also seeking to accelerate the development of its assets in the Republic of Congo whilst expanding its operations in other African countries.

“We believe that 2024-2025 are going to be prosperous years for the Africa energy market where many projects could materialise and will start realising value for stakeholders,” shared Ahmed, however, this high potential growth could be slowed down by the lack of capital, supply chain delays and availability of oilfield services. The energy market in Africa needs to reinvent itself in order to achieve the continent’s socio-economic goals”.

www.olive-energy.com

FUELLING THE FUTURE OF AFRICA

Located in the offshore fields of Loango and Zatchi, approximately 70 km off the coast of Pointe Noire in the Republic of Congo, Ammat is an independent hydrocarbon producer.

Serving the entire value chain, the business embraces all of the upstream stages of natural gas and oil production: from obtaining exploitation rights to exploration and production, including appraisal, development and decommissioning of the field.

Its operations are anchored in a sophisticated, data-driven strategy tailored for optimised reservoir management. This approach underscores its commitment to enhancing hydrocarbon production while prioritising environmental sustainability.

AMMAT PROJECT DIRECTED BY: JAIE WAITE

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY:

LAURA WATLING

Encouraged by the concept of the circular economy, Ammat considers each asset as precious and every resource as something to be nurtured.

“Sustainability is at the core of Ammat’s operations, aligning with our vision for Environment, Social, and Governance,” he continued, “We actively dedicate ourselves to implementing solutions aimed at reducing gas consumption and the resulting emissions into the atmosphere to minimise our environmental impact,” explained Massimiliano Mignacca, Ammat’s General Manager.

Additionally, Ammat prioritises creating value for local communities through meaningful initiatives that foster development opportunities.

The business is dedicated to advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, with social initiatives developed in collaboration with the government and local communities, creating shared value and opportunities for growth.

“We concentrate our efforts on education, health, and well-being through training programs and infrastructure projects in partnership with SNPC,” said Massimiliano, “Our goal is to serve as a positive force for change in the upstream sector while upholding ESG principles,”.

Passionate about its people, Ammat’s culture is propelled by a passion for collaboration and inclusivity, empowering employees and cherishing diversity.

“Nurturing innovation, open communication, and a collective commitment to excellence, our people form the bedrock of our success. At Ammat, our strategic focus revolves around People, particularly young talent,” Massimiliano explained.

Enabling development, Ammat has implemented a training model for young people, incorporating mentoring programs and fostering growth in both human and technical values to ensure an excellent level of performance.

Combined Commitment to Excellence

As of July 1st, 2023, Ammat initiated production in the offshore fields of Loango and Zatchi through a strategic partnership (“Strategic Plan”) with SNPC.

“We take great pride in being entrusted with the Permis Zatchi III and Permis Loango III by the Republic of Congo for a 20-year duration, extendable for an additional 5 years,” shared Massimiliano.

This acknowledgment underscores the value of Ammat’s Strategic Plan and the proposed investments aimed at enhancing the fields.

“The partnership between Ammat and SNPC is characterised by mutual trust and a shared commitment to excellence in the petroleum sector, reflecting a robust and collaborative alliance,” he continued.

In its Strategic Plan, Ammat has outlined a series of targeted investments aimed at achieving priority objectives of integrity and security for its people, as well as ambitious operational, economic, and sustainability goals.

The business’ aim is to double current production levels while simultaneously enhancing operational safety. To achieve these outcomes, it has developed a comprehensive plan involving the structural revamping and asset integrity of the operational platforms in both fields, along with a well workover plan. This plan includes a maintenance and replacement program for key components.

“All interventions are focused on stabilising and regulating production flows, thereby reducing operational risks, and optimising activities,” said Massimiliano.

In the first few months of implementation, the Strategic Plan has seen an increase in production capacity by 75%, rising from approximately 4,000 to around 7,000 barrels per day.

“This accomplishment is a result of a pioneering data-driven approach, leveraging the profound expertise of our production managers, and goal-oriented SMART collaborations with leading global companies for engineering and efficiency studies in the oil industry,” added Massimiliano.

LOGISTICS

LEKKI PORT

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FONTAYNE INTERNATIONAL PAGE 58

LEKKI PORT’S TRIFECTA OF GROWTH: A BEACON FOR INVESTMENT IN 2024

LEKKI PORT PROJECT

DIRECTED BY:

JAMIE WAITE

ARTICLE

WRITTEN BY:

LAURA WATLING

In a dynamic landscape where opportunities for investment abound, the confluence of development in the Lekki region stands as a beacon of promise and prosperity. Recent updates concerning the New Lekki Airport, the Lekki Deep Sea Port, and the progress on the Lekki Epe Expressway underscore the immense potential for growth and investment in this thriving economic hub.

Governor Sanolu’s recent meeting with the China Airport Construction Company (CACC) in Beijing signals a significant milestone in the realization of the ambitious Lekki airport project. With the CACC expressing keen interest in partnering with Lagos to bring this vision to fruition, investors can rest assured of the commitment to transform Lekki into a global aviation hub.

The commencement of the project in the first quarter of 2024 reaffirms the government’s dedication to infrastructural development, creating a conducive environment for investment.

The inauguration of the Lekki Deep Sea Port marks a monumental achievement in Nigeria’s maritime industry. Welcoming the LNG-powered CMA CGM SCANDOLA, the port has demonstrated its capability to accommodate the largest container vessels, solidifying its position as a key player in international trade. As the only port in Nigeria equipped to handle such vessels, the Lekki Deep Sea Port presents unparalleled opportunities for businesses and investors looking to capitalize on the country’s burgeoning maritime sector.

The ongoing expansion of the Lekki Epe Expressway further enhances connectivity

within the region, facilitating seamless transportation and logistics networks. With phase two of the project underway from Eleko junction to Abraham Adesanya, the government’s commitment to infrastructure development is evident. Moreover, the imminent commencement of the 4th Mainland Bridge project further underscores the strategic importance of the Lekki corridor in Lagos’ transportation blueprint.

For investors seeking to leverage the growth potential of the Lekki region, now is the opportune moment to act. Properties such as Tiara Estate Phase 2, Wura City, and Netoria Estate offer attractive investment prospects, strategically positioned to benefit from the burgeoning economic activities in the area. With infrastructure serving as the backbone of development, investments

Elevate Your Maritime Operations with Our Premier Equipment Solutions!

With nearly a decade of specialised experience, we excel in providing top-tier equipment, components, parts, and logistical services tailored specifically for the Ports, Terminals, and Maritime industry. Over the years, we've earned a solid reputation as a trusted partner worldwide by consistently delivering bespoke and crucial parts and components to our clients.

Our expertise lies in ensuring the seamless operation of essential machinery within the industry, including Ship to Shore cranes, Gantry Cranes, Spreaders, Reach Stackers, Empty Handlers, Forklifts, Terminal Trucks, and Harbour Trailers. By supplying high-quality parts and components, we contribute to the efficient and optimal performance of our client's equipment.

We collaborate with renowned original component manufacturers such as Dana Spicer, Prysmian, Kessler, Tratos, Cavotec, AxleTech, ZF, Volvo, Cummins and ConductixWampfler, among others. Our product range encompasses transmissions, wire ropes, axles, hydraulics, cables, motors, filters, pumps, and other critical components vital for heavy-duty equipment.

Our products are integral to various types of equipment, including Ship to Shore Cranes, Mobile Harbour Cranes, Rubber Tyre Gantry Cranes, Reach Stackers, Empty Handlers, Forklifts, Terminal Trucks, and other heavy-duty machines.

We cater to an extensive array of leading brands in the industry, including ZPMC, Liebherr, Konecranes, Terberg, Kalmar, SANY, Ottawa, Hyster, Caterpillar, Mafi, Grove, Gottwald, and more. Our products seamlessly integrate with these brands, ensuring compatibility and reliable performance.

At the core of our operations is a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. We prioritise understanding the unique needs and challenges of our clients, enabling us to provide tailored solutions that meet and exceed their expectations. Our dedication to quality, reliability, and efficiency has made us a preferred partner in the Ports, Terminals, and Maritime industry worldwide.

Whether it's sourcing critical components, providing timely logistical support, or offering expert advice, we are equipped to handle diverse requirements with precision and professionalism. With our comprehensive range of products and services, we empower our clients to enhance the productivity, safety, and longevity of their equipment, ultimately driving operational excellence and success.

In essence, we are not just suppliers; we are strategic partners dedicated to the success and growth of our clients in the dynamic and demanding landscape of the Ports, Terminals, and Maritime industry.

Learn more here - http://www.fontayneint. com/index.html

ABOUT US

We are specialists in providing and supplying equipment, components, parts and logistics services to the Ports, Terminals & Maritime industry. With close to a decade’s experience in supplying bespoke and critical parts and components to the industry, we have built and established a sound reputation as a reliable partner to our clients worldwide.

TRANSMISSIONS AND AXLES

We are official distributors for Dana Spicer and distribute ZF and Allison transmission parts. We supply complete axle units and spare parts for Dana Spicer, Kessler, ZF and AxleTech.

WIRE ROPES & WIRE ROPE LUBRICATION

We provide superior high-quality wire ropes for Ship to Shore Cranes, Mobile Harbour Cranes, Rubber Tyre Gantry cranes and other heavy lifting equipment.

OUR PRODUCTS

ENGINES & HYDRAULICS

We supply engines and engine parts for port machines. Volvo and Cummins are among the engine manufacturers we supply. We distribute hydraulic pumps and motors used on heavy duty equipment such as Ship to Shore Cranes, Mobile Harbour cranes, Reachstackers

TRAILERS & BRAKES

We supply and distribute Harbour Trailers to the Port & Terminal industry

We supply high quality German manufactured brakes such as storm brakes, drum brakes and safety brakes used on heavy duty cranes in the port and mining industries.

TYRES & FILTERS

Our range includes filters for oil, air, fuel, hydraulics, pneumatics, liquids, dust removal and air-conditioning systems. We supply high quality tyres on all sizes for equipment such as Reachstackers, Empty Handlers, Forklifts, Terminal Tractors, Terminal Trailers andMobile Harbour Cranes.

SPREADERS & CABLES

We supply a complete range of cables; these include cables for festoons, spreader, reeling and a wide choice of energy and data cables. These cables offer high tensile strength, flexibility and perennial wear-resistance. +44

in real estate along the Lekki corridor promise high returns and long-term appreciation.

As Lekki emerges as a nucleus of economic activity and innovation, investors are urged to seize the moment and position themselves for success. The convergence of the New Lekki Airport, the Lekki Deep Sea Port, and the expanded Lekki Epe Expressway heralds a new era of growth and prosperity, propelling Lagos towards its vision of becoming a global economic powerhouse. With foresight and strategic investment, stakeholders stand to reap the rewards of Lekki’s transformative journey towards greatness.

Expanding upon these points, it’s essential to recognize the broader economic implications of the developments in the Lekki region. The New Lekki Airport, for instance, not only enhances transportation but also stimulates tourism and hospitality sectors. With increased accessibility, more tourists are likely to visit Lagos, boosting revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other related businesses. Additionally, the airport opens up opportunities for international trade and investment, as it facilitates easier movement of goods and people between Nigeria and other countries.

Similarly, the Lekki Deep Sea Port’s impact extends far beyond its immediate vicinity. As a major hub for maritime trade, the port has the potential to transform Nigeria’s economy by facilitating imports and exports on a large scale. Industries reliant on efficient logistics and supply chain management, such as manufacturing and retail, stand to benefit significantly from the port’s operations. Moreover, the port’s strategic location positions Nigeria as a key player in global trade routes, attracting foreign investment and fostering economic growth nationwide.

Furthermore, the expansion of the Lekki Epe Expressway not only improves transportation within the region but also promotes urban development along its route. As infrastructure improves, previously underdeveloped areas become more accessible and attractive for investment. This, in turn, spurs the growth of residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic activity. Additionally, the 4th Mainland Bridge project holds immense potential for further enhancing connectivity and unlocking new areas for development in Lagos and its surrounding regions.

In conclusion, the confluence of development in the Lekki region presents unprecedented opportunities for investors and businesses alike. The New Lekki Airport, the Lekki Deep Sea Port, and the expanded Lekki Epe Expressway form a trifecta of growth, laying the groundwork for Lagos to emerge as a global economic powerhouse. By capitalizing on these developments and investing strategically in the region, stakeholders can contribute to sustainable economic growth and position themselves for long-term success. With careful planning and foresight, the journey towards Lekki’s greatness promises to be rewarding for all involved. www.lekkiport.com

SUPPORTING AFRICA’S VALUABLE INDUSTRIES

At its very core, Fontayne International is providing a sustainable solution to the breadth of industries using plant equipment.

FONTAYNE

PROJECT

DIRECTED BY:

JAMIE WAITE

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY:

LAURA WATLING

Established in the United Kingdom in 2015, Fontayne, led by Managing Director Karo Okpurhe, supplies parts and equipment used in a variety of cranes, stackers, forklifts, and trucks, predominantly used in the port industry.

On a mission to source products and parts for clients directly from the original component manufacturers, Fontayne collaborates with clients to provide bespoke demand and supply management solutions. As such, it is able to eliminate delays from the supply chain by providing quality parts on time, eliminating downtime on client operations.

“We deliver parts efficiently to our clients, saving them time and money which they would have otherwise spent transporting the equipment to a maintenance centre. By eradicating the need to move the equipment off site, we also support our customers in reducing their carbon emissions,” explained Karo.

Fontayne supplies genuine machine spare parts products direct from the manufacturer and are official agents and distributors for Dana Spicer. In addition, it sources high quality wire ropes, axles and axle parts (for which it is a distributor for AxleTech), and has a robust filter offering.

Although well-known in servicing the ports, terminals, and maritime industry, Fontayne’s scope reaches far beyond.

“With a wide variety of parts, we can support construction, mining, and agriculture sectors, as well as the military and airports,” explained Karo, “however, in the near term we’re exploring the opportunities of expanding further into the likes of agriculture and mining”.

The business’ relationship with Lekki Port has supported Fontayne in achieving a

stronghold in the port industry in Nigeria, having worked with the port since its preconstruction phase.

“We’ve been able to support the port’s development every step of the way. Recently, the port berthed the largest container vessel in Nigeria, and we’re proud to have played a role in keeping the port functioning for this milestone,” said Karo.

Docking at Lekki Port in January 2024, the Maersk Edrine has a length overall of 367 metres and a width of 48.2 metres.

Recently, Fontayne successfully embarked on a multi-million dollar project, critical to the port’s operations. This involved the tendering of 20 spreaders, five for ship-toshore cranes, and 15 for rubber tyre gantry cranes on the yard side.

FONTAYNE INTERNATIONAL

“With our strong and trusted supply chain network we were able to source high quality spreaders from the appropriate, industry leading manufacturers, with all parts being delivered on time and within budget, which is vital to our customers” explained Karo.

A Dynamic Leader taking Fontayne into the Future

At the helm of Fontayne International is Karo, who started his career in the finance industry having received a BSc in Economics and an MSc in International Business.

After two years at Oceanic Bank (Now Ecobank) as an Asset and Liability Management Analyst, followed by four years in procurement roles at APM Terminals, Karo established Fontayne.

“My experience has enabled me to gain a deep understanding of the importance of a robust supply chain in order to prevent downtime and contribute positively to the bottom line,” shared Karo, “this inspired me to use all my expertise and experience to launch Fontayne International, which is providing valuable employment opportunities to people in Nigeria,”.

A young leader taking strides in the industry, Karo describes his leadership style as “Dynamic, transformational, and futuristic”.

“It’s important that we embrace the ever evolving development of technology and look forward to the future,” he said. And Karo anticipates that AI will have a positive impact on Fontayne’s operations, playing a role in optimising the business’ capabilities.

In its (nearly a) decade of operations, Fontayne has gathered an immense amount of data around its customer’s requirements.

“AI will support us further in being able to predict parts demand, enabling more efficient inventory forecasting and management,” explained Karo, “it will also be beneficial to repair and maintenance predictions, as well as enhancing specificity, such as which coolants, filters and lubricants will suit the location of our customers depending on the season”.

It is clear to see how integration of AI will support Fontayne in making its customer’s life easier, with less down time and better bottom lines.

“Our vision is to become the most reliable, reputable and trail-blazing supplier of heavy duty products and parts. As we integrate more technology into the business, it will support us in this journey,” highlighted Karo.

As well as developing its existing service offering and marketplaces, Fontayne is looking to establish a strong after-sales service to its customers, including further repairs and maintenance.

“We want to embed ourselves into our customers' operations, all the while ensuring we can support their business by reducing downtime and costs and improving its carbon footprint,” said Karo. www.fontayneint.com

MANUFACTURING

VEXOS

PAGE 66

BOLLÉ SAFETY

PAGE 74

PROCELL

PAGE 82

INCREASING BUSINESS DEMANDS DRIVE GROWTH

OF EMS COMPANIES

Vexos, an innovative electronics manufacturing (EMS) and custom material solutions (CMS) provider, announces the company's expansion of its footprint from coast-to-coast in North America complementing its existing presence in Asia (Vietnam and China). The last few months highlight the continuing success of Vexos’ growth strategies and vision through the acquisition of ControlTek in Vancouver, WA, USA, and the launch of a greenfield site in Juarez, Mexico.

Scheduled for an early Q2 2024 launch, the newly announced 40,000 sq. ft. facility in Juarez, Mexico, is strategically positioned to support increasing customer demand for Vexos services and further enhances the company’s ability to serve clients globally.

Vexos Juarez will mirror the advanced equipment and capabilities of the Vexos Markham, Canada location, and align with Vexos’ award-winning global commitment to quality and excellence. From PCBA manufacturing and testing to box build assembly, Vexos Juarez will

replicate the high standards set by the existing Vexos manufacturing locations, offering EMS manufacturing, and engineering solutions for medical, security, smart grid, power, communications, automotive industries.

“The addition of the Juarez site represents a significant investment, but brings with it a new set of customers, enhances our global footprint and expands our world class service offerings” shared Vexos CEO, Paul Jona.

The announcement of the greenfield site in Juarez follows closely after the acquisition of ControlTek in September 2023. Located in Vancouver, Washington, Vexos | ControlTek adds a world-class west-coast manufacturing facility to the Vexos portfolio and opens doors to new markets.

“Acquiring ControlTek further augments the market potential of the aerospace and defense sectors for the business,” said Paul, “by combining the expertise, experience, and resources of both Vexos and ControlTek, we can deliver unparalleled excellence and innovation in the EMS space.

Vexos | ControlTek provides traditional EMS offerings such as PCBA to Full Box Build capabilities, Quick Turn, NPI and Production Capabilities along with electronic design engineering. As a ITAR, AS9100 certified and FDA registered facility, it will provide greater presence in the aerospace, defense, and medical markets.

Competitive Edge

In business for over 30 years, Vexos is a full service, high-mix, high complexity, mid to low volume EMS and CMS provider, offering complete end-to-end supply chain management solutions in electronic and mechanical products for OEMs.

Serving over 300 OEMs across the globe, Vexos services extend over the entire product life cycle, from Value Engineering (DFX) Services for product development

to Rapid Prototyping and sustained production.

“When you partner with Vexos, you will receive the benefits of our experience when launching new products by leveraging our learned best practices, knowledgeable resources and unique global footprint”, Paul continued, highlighting Vexos’ proven New Product Introduction (NPI) process.

Achieving an annual turnover of around $250 million, Vexos is committed to customer service satisfaction.

“Our value proposition includes DFX, Supply Chain support, NPI, CMS and our global footprint. We support our customers in optimising their time to market (Right First Time), whilst allowing them to focus on their own technology and marketing. This edge has helped us to form mutually beneficial, and successful long term relationships with loyal customers,” said Paul.

In addition, Paul has instilled a value-add of high-level executive engagement, interacting regularly with Vexos customers. Having spent 42 years in electronics manufacturing, working for leading technology organizations such as DuPont, Amphenol, CoActive Technologies, Cobham, and Pulse, he has forged a proven track record in achieving customer satisfaction.

With an MBA from the American Graduate School of International Management, a BA in Business Administration from the University of Puget Sound, WA and a graduate of the Nijenrode Netherlands School of Business, Paul is known for developing and executing strategies which result in strong revenue growth and profitability enhancement.

Vexos has been honoured with Circuits Assembly Service Excellence Awards (SEA) over the past 4 years in various categories such as Flexibility, Overall Satisfaction, Technology, Manufacturing Quality, Dependability, and Timely Delivery.

The Circuits Assembly SEA evaluates companies based on independent customer assessments. The awards that Vexos has won serves as a testament to the company’s commitment to continuous improvement, customer satisfaction and its stated goal to be considered best in class.

Great People, Great Work

As well as understanding the importance of close communication with customers, Paul values the same with his employees. In addition, he considers decentralisation and autonomy integral to the fast-acting nature of the business.

“We need to be able to act quickly for clients, and so our teams across the world need the authority to be able to do that. This is another reason why improving and developing our proximity to clients is key to our success”, he said.

As a testament to its employees, in May 2023, the Vexos’ Vietnam facility received the “Great People, Great Work” award. This award recognises companies in Ho Chi Minh City based on quantitative criteria with a particular focus on morals and ethics in business and acknowledges Vexos’ team’s outstanding accomplishments, innovative solutions, and remarkable impact on the local community.

“This award serves as a powerful reminder that by fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration, we can create lasting positive change and make a difference in our community,” said Paul, “We are immensely proud to have been recognised for our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional work and making a positive difference”.

AN EYE FOR STYLE, SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY: THE PPE EYEWEAR COMPANY TICKING ALL THE BOXES

BOLLÉ SAFETY

PROJECT

DIRECTED BY:

JAMIE WAITE

ARTICLE

WRITTEN BY:

LAURA WATLING

It is believed that there are an average of 2000 eye injuries in the workplace every day. Of which, in 90% of cases the severity could have been lessened or avoided entirely if the worker was wearing the correct protective eyewear.

Bollé Safety believes that its combination of safety first, fashion forward, and innovatively designed specialty protective eyewear is key to ensuring workers don their goggles.

Business Evolution, Product Revolution

Established by Louis Seraphin Bollé manufacturing combs and hairdressing accessories from plastic, the humble Bollé business of 1888 is a far cry from the specialist PPE eyewear manufacturer that is now worn by 20 million people per day.

Taken over by the Bollé brothers, Robert and Maurice, they established the crown quality mark and launched the first set of safety glasses and goggles for industrial protection in 1950.

“Every 10 years the business has seen a big evolution, and by 1980 the business started to incorporate fashion into its safety focused designs,” shared David Gafsou, Senior Sales Director, EMEA.

Headquartered in Lyon, Bollé Safety’s roots are firmly in France. Over the course of its 135 years in business it has developed a global reputation, distributing to over 100 countries and with facilities in North America, the UK, Japan, and Australia.

“To meet the demands of a global market which not only has varying regulatory requirements but also a landscape of different conditions, it's important that we think globally but act locally,” shared Ian Walbeoff, Vice President of Sales, EMEA.

The market leader in PPE eyewear in France, UK, Northern Ireland, and Australia, Bollé Safety foresees further geographic expansion, with Ian continuing: “we have a headquarter in almost every continent to stay as close as possible to our customers, partners and end-users, and hope to expand our global footprint further”.

Significant Innovations in Functionality

Bollé Safety innovate, design, and manufacture specialist PPE eyewear in non-prescription and prescription options for a range of industries. Starting with protective eyewear for industrial sectors in 1950, the brand has developed its range to include applications for tactical services, healthcare, cleanroom, and blue light.

Whilst goggles, glasses (including overthe-glasses), and welding helmets to protect those working in construction or the military may seem a no-brainer, its blue light application protects workers exposed to screens.

Bollé Safety’s latest range of screen glasses are equipped with PROBLU - the most advanced blue light filtering technology.

Dedicated to innovation, in June 2023 Bollé Safety showcased its revolutionary new UNIVERSAL Goggle, considered the brand’s most significant innovation in terms of safety goggles.

Equipped with Bollé Safety’s Wave technology, UNIVERSAL is a unique, high-end protective goggle, developed to withstand a variety of external hazards (such as impacts, gases, liquids, and radiations).

“Wave technology means that the goggle is designed with an accordion-style bellows system that allows it to conform to the wearer’s face and evenly distributes the goggle’s pressure. This ensures an optimised fit for each morphology and individual. Ultimately this provides optimal protection to the wearer” explained David.

In addition, the UNIVERSAL comes with an exclusive anti fog & anti scratch PLATINUM coating, protecting the goggle against scratches, whilst slowing down fogging.

As well as being compatible with both prescription glasses and an optional face shield, four varieties of the goggle have been developed, each representing different fields of use, identified by colour.

Yellow ensures the goggle has indirect ventilation which can be used in environments where impact is the primary hazard. Green is completely sealed, suitable for professionals working with inflammable products, dangerous gases, and fine particles. Grey has been developed with a neoprene strap, which is more chemically resistant than nylon, therefore ideal for workers who use solvents and acids. Finally, black has been designed with welding lenses, suitable for welders handling class 2 to 5 gases.

Ensuring that the product isn’t just fit for purpose but sustainable too, the UNIVERSAL Goggle can be easily dismantled allowing materials to be recycled separately.

“Customers know what they’re getting when they wear a Bollé Safety productreliability, comfort, and style,” shared Iain Conlon, Country Manager, Ireland, “whilst the price point may be higher than some

of our competitors, the products come with advantages meaning they will last longer”.

Those advantages include industry leading anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings, as well as the option to add Bollé Safety’s water based cleaning sprays, reducing the need for frequent purchase.

A niche that Bollé Safety has managed to master is fusing its earlier experience in lifestyle glasses in the 1980’s with its expertise in safety.

“Customers want to wear Bollé Safety’s protective eyewear because it’s not only safe and reliable, but it also fits well, and is fashion forward. Customers look good and feel protected,” added Ian.

Bollé Safety even offers an online customisation service, allowing customers to choose lens and frame colours. Additionally, it works with employers to produce bespoke, branded eyewear.

The specialist PPE eyewear manufacturer has been implementing digitisation into its services for some time, with Ian identifying that “tech will play a big role in the business’ future growth,”.

“We have recently implemented an online prescription portal which links into our production suite,” shared David, “we’re seeing an increase in demand for shortsighted prescriptions, and so plan to bring more products to market suited to those customers”.

Sustainability Recognised Internationally

Identifying both B2B clients and direct customers' demand for more sustainable products, Bollé Safety launched its “Go Green” ESG plan in 2021.

Forming part of the strategy, it is implementing internal training on ecodesign, optimisation of both product design via industrialisation and supply processes and supply chain, and UK based product recycling.

Bollé Safety have also rolled out a range of innovative, sustainable products, including KOMET, which features frames created with a new injection system that reduces waste from the injection process by 49%. For added value, this process also generates moulding that provides a superior aesthetic and finish for better resistance to wear.

The brand’s SOLIS Go Green is made of 33% recycled materials in its frame and lens, including nylon made from recycled fishing net, while KLASSEE’s eco-frame is created with 48% organic castor oil.

Addressing the importance of creating a sustainable supply chain for the healthcare sector, CURA is Bollé Safety’s eco-friendly protective face shield, which is manufactured with 97% recycled polyamide. The product can be safely reused at least ten times.

“We have also implemented packaging which is plastic free, 100% recycled and recyclable packaging, optimised for 30% less waste. Ensuring we are sustainable at as many touch points as possible, our user’s guides are printed directly onto cardboard using vegetable ink,” explained Iain.

Bollé Safety’s efforts within sustainability haven’t gone unnoticed. On its path to become a certified B-Corp, in September 2023 the business announced its EcoVadis Gold Medal Sustainability Accreditation.

The global recognition places the company amongst the top 5% of

BOLLÉ SAFETY

companies assessed by EcoVadis in more than 175 countries worldwide.

“We’re really proud of this achievement, it’s a clear representation of Bollé Safety's dedication to sustainability and responsible business practices,” shared David, “we recognise that we are a business with a long heritage but have a responsibility to the future generations too”.

The PPE eyewear specialist is now on a mission to reduce carbon emissions of each of its products by 35% by 2027 (compared to 2021), guaranteeing 95% of packaging will be eco-friendly by 2024, and proposing an eco-friendly version of 100% of its new products and 50% of its top sellers by 2025.

www.bolle-safety.com

THE HIDDEN HERO IN YOUR BUSINESS

THE BATTERY DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR INDUSTRIES KEEPING YOU RUNNING SMOOTHLY

Is there more value in the humble battery that meets the eye? From Business Enquirer’s conversation with Martin Almond, After Market Sales Director at Procell (by the Duracell company), we say: yes!

First invented in 1800 by the Italian chemist and physicist Alessandro Volta, the battery has come a long way thanks to innovative battery manufacturers such as Procell.

In an industry first, Procell has developed a dual portfolio battery for professionals, its solutions primarily supporting the medical, hospitality, infrastructure, industrial, and security sectors.

For context, an infusion pump, hand sanitiser, or defibrillator in a hospital could be using a Procell battery, so too a door key pad or security camera in a hotel, or a cable tester in a manufacturing plant.

“Procell batteries are the hidden hero behind a variety of applications, helping to keep services running smoothly,” explained Martin.

Procell’s dual portfolio features its innovative ‘Intense’ and ‘Constant’ range.

The Intense range has been specifically engineered to last longer in high drain professional devices that require a high amount of power to deliver precise pulses.

Meanwhile, Procell’s Constant range of batteries have been innovated to offer long lasting performance in low-drain professional devices. These devices, for example smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, require a power output profile built to reliably handle consistent use over a long period, whilst also providing long lasting performance.

Whilst embedding its Procell range of batteries is a priority for the business, it is also on a mission to enhance its offering by innovating in sustainability and value added technology.

Exciting Opportunities in Sustainability

Having developed a dual portfolio of batteries designed to meet the needs of industrial outputs, Procell’s offering is inherently a sustainable and efficient one.

“We work closely with our customers to ensure they are using the right batteries for the right application. This means our

DURACELL/PROCELL

DURACELL/ PROCELL

PROJECT

DIRECTED BY: JAMIE WAITE

ARTICLE

WRITTEN BY: LAURA WATLING

customers can save money by replacing less, whilst also reducing their waste,” shared Martin.

Offering disclosure to its customers, Procell has launched a cost calculator, which guarantees to prove a minimum 20% saving when using the correct Procell battery. Savings also include the cost of replacing the batteries.

However, with its partnerships with its customers, Procell has identified that businesses seek more sustainable features within products in their supply chain.

“Focussing on how Procell can value add with sustainability features is a pivotal opportunity for the business,” Martin said, “It’s a very exciting time, as we’re investigating how we can close the production loop of our product, using as many components from waste batteries as possible and turning them into new ones”.

Procell is also on a mission to improve the amount of its batteries that end up in battery recycling bins. Recently the business has worked with BT Openreach on a recycling scheme, providing the UK wide business with recycling bins.

“We have been working with BT Openreach on this project for around ten months. Ultimately, the goal is to make life easier for our end-users when it comes to sustainability,” shared Martin.

Making an Impact

Setting Procell apart from its competitors is its ability to embed itself into its clients business to truly understand pain points, enabling the battery producer to innovate products that are fit-for-purpose and provide added value.

“By working collaboratively with our OEM customers, we can help them to tweak their devices to ensure they are performing optimally, as well as providing a cost-benefit analysis,” explained Martin.

In a 9 month long project, Procell partnered with BD for the unique requirements of a morphine pump in need of a nine volt battery. Working alongside the manufacturers, Procell Technical Engineers were able to develop the product, allowing the NHS to achieve the best possible results through the lifecycle of the morphine pump.

“That’s why it’s crucial that our team really gets involved in understanding what those devices are - once we understand them, our Technical Engineers can develop them to make sure that they’re getting the best out of those devices wherever they’re used,” explained Martin.

Martin added that the technical aspect of Procell is truly what sets it apart from its consumer brand, Duracell.

In another innovative step for Procell, it has released its InSite project in the US.

The project has developed a device to monitor power within a set of batteries which is linked to an online portal. This enables end-users to monitor battery life in products across the business, alerting the user to any batteries which need changing.

“A good example of this is within hotel door locks using key cards. This will help to improve business operations by alerting engineers to when the door lock needs a new battery before its flagged by the hotel customer. Ultimately, this will improve customer experience whilst also improving sustainability and efficiency,” Martin shared.

And it’s not just hotels which will see the benefit, the monitoring technology can be retrofitted to a whole host of applications, Martin added.

KEY FACTS ABOUT PROCELL’S DUAL PORTFOLIO

Procell Intense

Optimised active materials to improve efficiency

Separator paper designed to reduce internal resistance and shorting

High performing cathode to deliver more power

Optimised for high rate performance

High conductivity to reduce internal resistance

Building Brand Equity

Considered a start-up within the Duracell business, Procell has undergone vast change in the last four years since its launch. Now, Martin says, the battery brand aimed at industry will undergo a period of stability.

“Now that we have developed a fantastic dual portfolio of batteries which is having a clear impact on our customers, we are focussed on building brand equity,” said Martin.

Recommended by industry leaders such as Ajax Systems, GANTNER Electronic,

Procell Constant

High density anode with Increased active materials to improve capacity

Thin paper design to enable more active materials and improve performance

High energy density material to deliver more capacity

Optimised for low rate performance

Increased conductivity to improve

and Tork, Procell is focussed on seeing a double-digit growth year on year.

“With the Duracell brand well established, Procell is the growth driver for the business, which is an incredible opportunity for the whole Procell team,” Martin added.

To bolster its growth, Procell will continue to work in partnership with customers to embed its dedicated team, and discover new opportunities to innovate its products, with a vision to become the industry battery of choice.

www.procell.com

FOOD & BEVERAGE

AL ISLAMI FOOD

PAGE 92

GHITHA PAGE 106

A STORY OF CONTINUED GROWTH FOR LEADING HALAL FOOD PRODUCER

AL ISLAMI FOODS

PROJECT DIRECTED BY:

ADEL MHIRI

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY:

LAURA WATLING

Known as the leader in halal foods for five decades, Al Islami Foods has learnt the importance of moving with the times.

Founded in the 1970‘s, as what has been described as the “role model of modern-day Supermarket”, the Dubai based business has grown to become one of the biggest food distributors in the region, supplying to Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Yemen, Jordan, the Seychelles, Libya, the Maldives and Mauritius etc.

Its founder, Haj Saeed Lootah is a renowned, self-made businessman, who, over the course ofhis career became an accomplished tutor, author, economist, banker, entrepreneur, philanthropist, businessman and visionary community leader.

Throughout his career, he established the Port Saeed Region, the first Islamic bank (Dubai Islamic Bank), and the first Islamic insurance company (IAIC). Additionally, he invested his time in establishing several educational facilities including the Islamic School of Education, the Orphan Education Foundation, Dubai Medical College for Girls, the College of Pharmacy of Girls, as well as several research and technical facilities.

Ultimately, Haj Saeed Lootah’s vision was to ‘make things better’ by empowering people to excel at everything they do.

Stepping into the inspirational leader’s footsteps is Al Islami Foods CEO, Nasser Talib Nasser, taking on the role in November 2022.

Throughout his career, Nasser has been committed to enhancing the wellbeing of his employees and the broader

community. Whilst at Desert Group, he provided employment for 40 special needy individuals and ensured that all staff received comprehensive training to remain updated with modern technology and practices. He also drove the complete rebranding of the company and implemented Navision, a robust IT system that significantly improved efficiency and operations.

Accomplished and visionary Board

Member and Strategic Planner, Nasser has extensive experience in managing and growing successful businesses, and is onboard to continue to steer Al Islami Foods into the future.

“As leaders in Halal Foods, our strategy is to remain focused on developing and launching nutritious, innovative and healthy halal products to satisfy the appetites of our consumers, regionally and internationally,” shared Nasser, “we have

AL ISLAMI FOODS

recently expanded our presence in Qatar further, with plans to offer our customers a wider range of products in 2024”.

An Unwavering Commitment to Quality

Under the Al Islami brand umbrella, Al Islami Foods produces a wide range of premium halal frozen foods, which celebrates culinary diversity. These products include whole chickens, burgers, nuggets, sausages, seafood, fries, vegetables, fruit and many other snacking products.

“We employ an international team of chefs who are always busy developing new recipes to enhance our product range. These recipes are validated through independent consumer sensory panels,” explained Nasser, “thanks to this input we have been able to aggressively expand the product range in all of our categories”.

Its state–of–the–art, 10,000 m2 processing facility, located in the Sharjah Hamriyah Free Zone is the largest in the region, and supports the business in its unwavering commitment to quality and transparency.

To ensure this commitment, Al Islami Foods monitors and controls critical points in its processing line to ensure consistent quality, including regular product testing for microbiological contaminants, and chemical residue. In addition, final products pass through a metal detector and X-ray inspection belt to ensure that the products are completely free from any foreign objects.

“Continual development of our processes is crucial to our growth, and so we have implemented a system for continuous improvement, regularly reviewing and updating processes based on feedback, audits, and performance data,” explained Nasser.

Employing the latest equipment and highest safety standards, Al Islami Foods has the capacity to produce 18,000 metric tons per year, and has recently enhanced its sausage line production capacity to 1500 metric tons per year.

Al Islami Foods CEO, Nasser Talib Nasser

Coasul Cooperativa Agroindustrial, with almost 55 years of tradition in Brazilian agribusiness, has a national outstanding position. Its chicken meat production plant, located in the city of São João, Paraná state, was inaugurated in 2010 and is one of the most modern in Brazil, with a daily slaughtering capacity of 160 thousand chicken.

With its new brand, LeVida, entered the international market, representing the high quality of its products, which meet the standards of the most demanding markets in the world. LeVida products are exported to many countries, following the rules of Halal slaughter in all its production.

The industry design featured bold investments and focused on three main points: Traceability, Food Security and Sustainability.

By acting comprehensively in agribusiness, Coasul holds total control of the production chain, producing grains (like corn and soy), which are processed into animal feed in its own factories to feed poultry, which are raised by its producers cooperative. This allows all processes to be tracked, ensuring food safety and quality in all the brand products Le Vida.

Food safety and quality of LeVida products are the result of tight controls, following programs such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP), among others.

LeVida products are produced within sustainable practices. Such cares go beyond the production process, with the use of rainwater for external processes, use of reforested wood, care animal welfare, use of biodegradable products, and green logistics, which prevents the disposal of poultry waste on the roads during transport to the slaughterhouse.

For having total control of production processes, the Coasul is extremely versatile and can adapt its products to the specific needs of each client.

AL ISLAMI FOODS

“We are dedicated to continual Capex investment into automation and digital technology to improve our performance,” he added.

Additionally, it has established a robust distribution network with its more than 5,000 customers,cand has founded the biggest logistics facility in the region at the Dubai Investment Park.

Implementing innovations across its business, Al Islami Foods’ distribution fleet is equipped with an advanced tracking GPS system for better control over trucks.

“Currently, we are implementing a new software for route optimisation, as well as territory planning using the latest technology bringing more efficiency into our distribution model,” said Nasser.

Its commitment to quality has been recognised by the industry, with Al Islami Foods receiving a raft of awards, most recently including the Super Brand of the Year Award 2018, Best Halal Consumer Brand 2020 from iHalal International and ranked among the top Halal Food brands in OIC 2023.

Al Islami Kids Club

FOODS

“We have been successful in achieving and maintaining high quality standards through strong control over raw material, procurement, manufacturing and supply chain processes,” shared Nasser.

Developing Sustainability Credentials

In accordance with the UAE’s own sustainability and clean energy strategies, Al Islami Foods is actively implementing sustainable practices for environmentally conscious and ethical food production.

The business is employing waste reduction strategies and recycling initiatives. This includes proper disposal of by-products and exploring ways to recycle waste materials. In addition it is implementing water conservation measures in its processing operations, which involves efficient water management practices, and technologies to reduce water waste.

“As part of our measures to remain a leader in the industry, we are studying the feasibility of establishing an Effluent Treatment Plant to treat wastewater for subsequent reuse, such as in gardening and washing purposes. We’re also exploring where to invest in energyefficient technologies within our processing facilities,” explained Nasser.

Its aims include the use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels on its logistics facility, energy-efficient machinery, and advanced technologies to minimise energy consumption. It is also planning to shift from chemicalbased cleaning agents to plant-based alternatives.

“This shift not only reduces the environmental impact of cleaning

activities but also aligns with a broader commitment to eco-friendly practices,” Nasser continued.

In addition to these measures, Al Islami Foods prioritises partnership with farms and suppliers that adhere to sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming and humane animal treatment.

Through these practices, which also includes community education, Al Islami aims to not only produce high-quality meat products but also contribute positively to the environment and community. www.alislamifoods.com

For more than six decades, Seara has been enriching mealtime experiences for families spanning 150 countries, solidifying our position as a global food brand rooted in integrity.

Our extensive array of “In-Natura” meats and poultry, available in both frozen and fresh varieties, alongside pre-cooked and

guaranteeing excellence at every stage of production. This dedication to quality is a trait shared with our parent company, the JBS Group, renowned as the foremost producer of chicken and beef globally, with expanding operations in key markets such as China, England, Kuwait, France,Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates.

Springsnow Food Group Co., Ltd. is located in Laiyang City, Shandong Province. It specializes in the research and development, production, and sales of processed chicken food, having the feed mill production and chicken farming. It is committed to becoming a leading enterprise in the Chinese chicken industry.

The company has a high reputation and market share in the field, with two brands“Spring Snow” and“ Shangxian”. The domestic market mainly targets catering, supermarkets, online, new retail, convenience stores, and B2B supply.

The company has long term suppliers of fast food chains, Hema Xiansheng, Wal Mart, RT Mart, China Resources ole, Jiajiayue, Yonghui and other large supermarket chains at home and abroad, JD, Tmall and other e-commerce platforms, and family Mart stores.

The export market mainly targets more than 20 countries and regions such as Japan, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and South Korea. The chicken“Shangxian”brand jointly created by the company and JD has ranked first in JD’s fresh chicken sales for six consecutive years (as of the end of 2022).

In order to meet the needs of industry development, the company has always adhered to a high sense of social responsibility and mission since its establishment, always focusing on practicing the national development strategy, adhering to high standards, strict requirements, and highquality development, and has a good consumer reputation and brand influence.

It has developed into a leading chicken seasoning food processing enterprise in the industry. In October 2021, Springsnow was officially listed for trading on the main board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange (stock code“605567”).

In the coming years, we will firmly stick to the goal of becoming a leading industry in the highquality cooked food segment of Chinese broiler chicken. We will closely rely on technological progress, continuously improve management level, effectively enhance innovation ability, continuously expand brand influence, support“scale”with“high quality”, and amplify“high quality”with“scale”. Together, we will work together to contribute to the country and society, and make greater contributions to partners and investors.

GHITHA ANNOUNCES STRONG MARKET EXPANSION AND OPERATIONAL SUCCESS

Considered one of the fastest growing and largest companies in the UAE, Ghitha, a part of International Holding Company, has a portfolio of more than 60 subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures.

GHITHA PROJECT

DIRECTED BY: JAMIE WAITE

ARTICLE

WRITTEN BY: LAURA

WATLING

One of the largest vertically integrated food manufacturing and distribution companies in the UAE, the business’ brands operate within six business segments including dairy, poultry, protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, oils, grains as well as manufacturing, trading and distribution, and agriculture and investments.

Striving to support the UAE’s mission to diversify the non-oil economy alongside its Food Security Strategy, Ghitha has been heralded as the foremost contributor to the UAE’s national food security via the supply of food across different verticals.

At this year’s Gulfood, the holding company presented six of its most prominent food and distributing companies: Al Ain Farms; Al Ajban Poultry; Asmak; NRTC; ADVOC; and Royal Horizon.

The largest integrated dairy and poultry company in UAE, Al Ain Farms offers the highest quality products in fresh and long life dairy, poultry, juice, and camel milk products.

Further to Al Ain Farm’s Poultry offering, Al Ajban Poultry brings to market the highest quality poultry products in UAE, as well as hatching eggs and day-old chicks.

Representing Ghitha’s seafood outputs, Asmak is the largest producer of fresh and frozen fish in the UAE, utilising state-of-the-art processing and freezing technologies. The business has been endorsed with top reputable certifications.

Considering fruit and vegetables, NRTC is one of the Middle East’s leading importer and exporters of fresh fruit and vegetables. It has more than 50 years of experience serving the HoReCa and wholesale markets, and boasts a network of more than 100 exclusive trading partners and suppliers across the globe.

ADVOC is one of the three fractionation plants in the GCC to make specialty fats and is the only highest-quality edible oil refinery in Abu Dhabi.

Finally, Royal Horizon is a group of companies established in the UAE which specializes in fast moving consumer goods and retail sectors, best known for distributing dry food products and rice grain.

Led by an Organizational Architect

“Ghitha actively pursues various opportunities to consistently enhance shareholders’ value, year after year,” shared CEO, Falal Almeen, “Our journey of substantial growth has been further reinforced by our core values”

The business core values consist of:

• Achieving portfolio growth; Improving performance through diversified investments;

• Elevating value by creating new business ecosystems;

• Sustaining returns by investing across global sectors.

Leading the business in meeting its objectives as well as supporting the UAE in its Food Security Strategy, Falal has more than 20 years of experience in

CEO Ghitha Holding Falal Ameen

driving business excellence, achieving continuous improvement in business performance, and accelerating growth by translating business concepts into tangible results.

Using entrepreneurial approaches to guide companies through change and difficulty towards profitable growth, Falal believes that leadership has to provide the supervision necessary to achieve excellent outcomes and meet business objectives, while promoting innovation, creating customer value, enhancing organizational capabilities and developing team leadership skills.

“As an organizational architect, this ethos has helped to establish the direction for companies to ensure the financial, operational, and reputational well-being of the organization,” he said.

Driving Transformation

Whilst Ghitha’s operational success supports the government through its

FoodSecurityStrategyatawiderlevel, thebusinessisfocusedoncreating opportunitiesandenhancingthe wellbeingofcommunitiesandindividuals, too.

“Business-driveninvestmentsareatthe heartofpositivelyinfluencingtheworld,” saidFalal.

Internally,Ghitha’smanagement philosophyplacesafirmbeliefinits people,whoarenotonlymotivatedbut alsooperatewiththeperspectiveofbeing shareholders.

“Thisvirtuouscycleofcontinuous businessgrowthfostersthedevelopment ofGhitha’shumancapitalandhas cultivatedanenvironmentthatsustains thegroup'songoingsuccess,”added Falal.

Ghithapridesitselfonfosteringapositive cultureofequalopportunitiesforall employees.Italsocontinuouslyinvests intothelocalEmiratitalentviaarangeof socialresponsibilityprograms

OnesuchinitiativehasseenGhitha partnerwiththeUAENationalService andReserveAuthorityandADAFSAfor thelastsevenyears.Theprogramtrains 25UAENationalServicecadetswithin thebusinesseachyear.TheGroupisalso implementingtheAtharProgramof EmiratiDevelopment,whichsupports an 18monthtrainingcoursewithinthe company.

“Whentraineeshavecompletedthe course,theyleavefullyequippedfor industryspecificjobs,”sharedFalal.

Inadditiontocommunityadvancement, thebusinessiscommittedtofostering innovation,sustainability,andeconomic prosperityacrossitsoperationalmarkets.

“InalignmentwithAbuDhabi'sEconomic Vision2030andtheUAE'sNext50 developmentstrategies,weactively engagewithvariousbusinesses,witha strongemphasisonpreparingforthe future,fosteringcreativity,bolstering resilience,anddrivingthetransformation ofthefoodsectorviasustainablepractices andethicalfarming,”Falalexplained. Ghithafollowsethicalandsustainable practicesacrossitsportfolio,including animalwelfare,reductionofitscarbon

footprint by recycling water and expanding its R&D capabilities by offering local health innovation.

A Number of Milestone Achievements

Falal believes the outlook for the food sector in the UAE is strong, with growth expected to be driven by the increase in population, high level of tourist attractiveness and HoReCa segment growth, as well as the increase in per capita income of the population.

“This is all supported by the overall investments coming from the synergies of the government with local companies to further develop the local industry and enable unbeatable food security for the nation,” shared Falal.

Meanwhile, changing population dynamics and consumer needs are seeing health factors contribute to more categories being sub-segmented to offer value added products.

“With this in mind, we can see growth primarily in the premium food and drinks segment,” Falal said.

www.ghitha.com

Ghitha Holding Announces Expansion with Acquisition of MNG Airlines Shareholding

Trends

Exploring the Top 10 Lifestyle trends you have to try in 2024

Tourism

Making tourism count for Antarctica

EXPLORING THE TOP 10 Lifestyle trends you have to try in 2024

In the dynamic landscape of modern living, staying abreast of emerging lifestyle trends can offer fresh perspectives and enrich our daily experiences. As we embark on a journey through 2024, it's an opportune moment to delve into the top 10 lifestyle trends that are making waves and are definitely worth exploring this year.

Eco-Conscious Living

Sustainability has evolved from a niche concern to a mainstream movement, with an increasing emphasis on reducing waste, opting for eco-friendly products, and adopting practices that minimise our environmental impact. From embracing minimalism to supporting ethical and sustainable brands, eco-conscious living is a trend that aligns with our collective responsibility towards the planet.

Mindful Technology Use

As technology continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, there's a growing awareness of the need for mindful tech usage. This trend involves cultivating a healthy relationship with technology by setting boundaries, practising digital detoxes, and prioritising reallife connections over screen time. By integrating mindfulness into our digital habits, we can foster greater balance and well-being in an increasingly digital world.

Plant-Based Eating

The shift towards plant-based eating is gaining momentum as more people recognize the health benefits and environmental implications of consuming fewer animal products. Whether you're fully committed to a vegan lifestyle or simply incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet, embracing a plantforward approach to eating can have positive impacts on your health, the planet, and animal welfare.

Remote Work Flexibility

The pandemic accelerated the transition towards remote work, and in 2024, flexible work arrangements are becoming the new standard. Whether you're freelancing, telecommuting, or running a remote business, the freedom to work from anywhere opens up exciting opportunities for work-life balance, geographical flexibility, and personal fulfilment.

Holistic Wellness

Wellness goes beyond physical health—it encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. In 2024, there's a growing emphasis on holistic practices such as meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, and energy healing as people seek comprehensive approaches to self-care and healing. By nurturing all aspects of our well-being, we can achieve greater balance, resilience, and vitality in our lives.

Solo Travel Adventures

Solo travel is no longer reserved for the intrepid few; it's a trend that's attracting travellers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're embarking on a solo backpacking adventure through exotic destinations or exploring a new city on your own, solo travel offers unparalleled opportunities for self-discovery, personal growth, and cultural immersion.

Community Connection

In an era characterised by digital connectivity, there's a growing yearning for meaningful face-to-face connections and community engagement. From participating in local clubs and volunteering initiatives to attending neighbourhood gatherings and co-living spaces, fostering a sense of community enriches our lives and strengthens social bonds in profound ways.

Minimalist Living

Simplifying our lives and decluttering our spaces can have transformative effects on our mental clarity and overall well-being. Minimalist living isn't just about owning fewer possessions; it's about prioritising quality over quantity, embracing intentional consumption, and freeing ourselves from the burden of excess stuff. By simplifying our lives, we can create space for what truly matters and experience a greater sense of fulfilment and freedom.

Wellness Travel

Travelling with a focus on health and wellbeing is a trend that's gaining traction among wellness enthusiasts. Whether it's a yoga retreat in a tropical paradise, a spa getaway in the mountains, or a digital detox retreat in the countryside, wellness travel offers rejuvenating experiences that nourish the body, mind, and soul. By prioritising self-care during our travels, we can return home feeling refreshed, inspired, and renewed.

Personal Development Journeys

Investing in personal growth and selfimprovement is a trend that's on the rise in 2024. Whether through self-help books, online courses, coaching programs, or experiential workshops, people are actively seeking opportunities to expand their knowledge, develop new skills, and unlock their full potential. By embarking on a personal development journey, we can cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and fulfilment in all areas of our lives.

In conclusion, 2024 is poised to be a year of conscious living, personal empowerment, and meaningful connections. By embracing these top 10 lifestyle trends, you can embark on a transformative journey towards a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. So why wait? Start incorporating these trends into your lifestyle today and embark on a path to a brighter and more vibrant future.

A recent report submitted to the UK Parliament by University of Surrey academics suggests that the impact of tourism on Antarctica may be more complex than previously thought. The research explores the potential impact of Antarctic tourism on environmental conservation, questioning some existing assumptions.

Surrey’s Dr Christy Hehir, author of the study, presented her findings to the Environmental Audit Sub-Committee on Polar Research on Monday 26 February. She told them how tourists have the potential to transform into conservation champions, boosting funding and driving positive change.

Dr Hehir, Senior Lecturer in Tourism and Events at the University of Surrey, said:

"In the era of potentially unsustainable tourism growth, this research is an optimistic step forward in making tourism count for conservation and shaping a sustainable future for Antarctic tourism.

"Our research suggests that social identity might be one way to explain the long-term impact of educational expeditions, highlighting the critical importance of an alumni or Ambassadorial programme."

Dr Hehir's research focuses on the impact of tourism on Antarctica and how it can be managed more responsibly. Key findings of the research:

Nature connection drives philanthropy: tourists who identify strongly with the natural environment they visit are more likely to donate to conservation charities. Dr Hehir has developed guidelines for tour operators to encourage tourists to donate, potentially increasing funding for conservation efforts.

Citizen science empowers tourists: Engaging tourists in citizen science projects can educate them about environmental issues and encourage responsible behaviour. Dr Hehir recommends collaborating with existing organisations like the Polar Citizen Science Collective to leverage the reach of polar travellers.

Dr Hehir hopes that her recommendations can help ensure that tourism contributes positively to the conservation of this unique and fragile environment.

Dr Hehir’s work contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Making tourism count for Antarctica