Business in Gulf - March 2013

A BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR TODAY’S ENTREPRENEURS MAR / APR 2013

VOLUME-7 NO.04

Business ANNIVERSARY

ITS QUEST TO

VIVA CONTINUES

EXCELLENCE Qatar:Riyal 20.00 - Oman:Riyal 2.00 - UAE:Dirhams 20.00 - Kuwait:KD 2 - Saudi Arabia:Riyal 20.00 - Bahrain:BD 2

ON ITS 3RD YEAR

MARCH / APRIL 2013 / VOL-7 NO:04

IN GULF

www.maxmediaco.com

PUBLICATION

Contents Business 38 IN GULF

MARCH / APRIL 2013

COVER STORY 38

Rising Above the Rest: Mr. Andrew Hanna

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Since its launch, VIVA Bahrain has consistently stayed relevant to their customers and has been at the forefront of innovative marketing campaigns.

We speak to Mr. Andrew Hanna about their third anniversary celebration, their marketing strategies and more.

FEATURE 32

Bahrain’s leading Manufacturing Industries We look into the manufacturing industries in the Kingdom. Be it oil, cement or plastic, we produce it right here in Bahrain. We give you a glimpse into the big names in the market.

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Looking Back: Bahrain Air Taking a look at the ill-fated Bahrain Air’s history.

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EVENTS 22

Middle East Oil and Gas Show 2013

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The GCC’s premier industrial event, geared to explore and debate the future of the industry in the region.

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Euromoney Bahrain Conference

In association with the EDB, Euromoney Bahrain organized a conference to analyze the short and medium term prospects in the Kingdom.

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ENTREPRENEURS 42

Amina Gallery Founder Amina Al Abassi sells her artwork, not just as paintings but also as mobile phone covers, cushion covers and other unique items.

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The Cookie Jar A group of three friends, Reem Al Mousawi, Amina Al Atassi and Khaled Almoayyed combine forces to launch The Cookie Jar, which promises that each cookie will be delectable and chewy.

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SECTIONS 48

Strengthen Your Organization’s Culture

Heal your company’s ailments with these tips.

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Turn Setbacks to Success Had a little trouble in the organization?

Turn it into your advantage.

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BIG Autos The Top Ten Convertibles.

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Hotel Outlet Guide Your guide to the Kingdom’s hotel outlets for dining, shopping, nightlife and spa.

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No More Bahrain Air. I thought it was a joke the first time I heard it. But ultimately the joke was on the employees of the firm. One fine morning they wake up with full time well paying jobs and in a matter of hours, they are thrown off the deep end with no job, no paycheck and no access to bank accounts. It’s definitely not an enviable position to be in.

VIVA CCO Mr. Andrew Hanna talks about the evolution of the VIVA brand on their 3rd anniversary. The younger generation of the Kingdom continues to surprise us with their innovative business and marketing ideas. All said and done, the fact that Bahrain is marching ahead can’t be refuted!

Dilraz Kunnummal

Deputy Editor dilraz@maxmediaco.com

Contributors

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MAXMEDIA PUBLICATION

Business IN GULF

Bahrain’s premier entreprenurial lifestyle magazine PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF Sameer Uchi MANAGING PARTNER / GROUP EDITOR Mohd. A. Kayani DEPUTY EDITOR Dilraz Kunnummal EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Jakrapong Saengnuan SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR Tarek Rashdan

Neil Fogarty is an international speaker, adviser, mentor, consultant and the author of Crack On and Kill Your Salesman. For more information visit www.neilfogarty.com.

You can also visit his blog sparkglobalbusiness.com/wp/blog.

PRODUCTION MANAGER Sachan Chandran GRAPHIC DESIGNER Haroon Rasheed

Mike Figliuolo is the Founder and Managing Director of thought LEADERS, LLC. He is also the author of One Piece of Paper: The Simple Approach to Powerful, Personal Leadership. You can reach him via email at info@thoughtleadersllc.com

Mitch Ditkoff is the Co-founder and President of Idea Champions. He can be contacted on: e-mail - mitch@ideachampions.com and can be followed on Twitter at: http:// twitter.com/mitchditkoff. For more information visit the Heart of Innovation blog www. ideachampions.com/weblogs and Idea Champions at www.ideachampions.com

Phil Frost is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Main Street ROI in New York, NY. Main Street ROI develops step-by-step training courses to make online marketing simple and more profitable for small businesses. Click here to get the 5 steps to rank #1 in Google in 30 days or less.

PHOTOGRAPHER Mani T. DISTRIBUTION CONTROLLER Salah Abdulla Hassan

Please e-mail us any form of business, banking, financing, investments or entrepreneurial news. email us on: big@maxmediaco.com

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

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{ASK BIG}

WHAT ONE GADGET CAN YOU OR YOUR TEAM NOT LIVE WITHOUT (OTHER THAN A SMARTPHONE)?

Question by: Ashley WORK WITH KODAK’S PLAYSPORT CAMERA

CAPTURE WITH CANON 7D

LOGITECH HD WEBCAM

"We are constantly creating video content for our website and show, and it gets old carrying the large cameras around. Having the Playsport on hand is a dream. No matter where you go, you can catch something right as it happens. Also, the audio is much better than using your phone. If you create a lot of video for your business, we recommend this gadget as a must -and it's waterproof!"

Ashley Bodi | co-founder, Business Beware.

"The Double7 Squad is always either shooting a project or on the lookout for a beautiful moment to capture and the iPhone doesn't always do the job. We have about five Canon DSLRs amongst us so we can catch whatever's happening, when it's happening, and with beautiful lenses."

Pete Chatmon | President + CEO, Double7 Images

"I never realized why I'd need an external webcam when I have a perfectly decent one built into my computer -- until I got one. The huge bump in video quality and being able to plug it in, move it around, and shoot impromptu videos from anywhere have been a huge asset for our content marketing."

Sean Ogle | Founder, Location 180, LLC

ENDICIA PRINTERS RAISES SATISFACTION "We ship anywhere from five to fifty customer orders on a normal day.

Endicia has a full-service solution that allows us to print postage -- with free tracking numbers -- from the office. As a company that sells physical products, managing fulfillment and operations is critical to customer satisfaction.

Endicia helps us get it right, and get customers their orders fast."

Aaron Schwartz | Founder and CEO, Modify Watches

STAY POWERED WITH MOPHIE JUICE PACK "Smartphones are useless if the battery dies in a few hours. That's why it's important to carry around a Mophie Juice Pack, so that your phone has a chance to stay on longer during the day."

Ben Lang | Founder, EpicLaunch

CAN’T STAND ANYTHING BUT MSTAND

WORK WITH WIRELESS HEADSETS

"The mStand by Rain Design is one of the most frequently seen accessories on the desks in our offices.

This solid aluminum stand matches perfectly with MacBook Laptops, while lifting the laptop up to eye level for better posture and viewing. At fifty dollars, it's a must-have for anyone whose main workstation is a laptop."

Matt Mickiewicz | Co-Founder, Flippa and 99designs

"We're not gamers by any standard, but when taking calls from our computer, we very much prefer not being tied down and enjoy the luxury of being able to get up from our desk to pace around a room in thought while on a call."

Danny Wong | Co-Founder, Blank Label Group, Inc.

PORTABLE BATTERY FROM ZAGG

BOUND AT THE SPINE

"I can't live without an accessory to gadgets, which is the incredible ZAGGsparq portable battery for the iPhone.

One charge gives you four more full charges to take with you in case you might be away from a power outlet for an extended period of time.

As a businessperson, you can't afford having your phone die on you all the time!"

Logan Lenz | Founder / President, Endagon

"I know this is a little 'old school' but I take my Moleskine everywhere with me.

It's always by my side to jot notes, ideas, or things i need to do. It's the only 'paper' I actually use and I'd be lost without it!"

Andy Drish | Founder, Referral Squirrel

SKYPE SAVES TIME AND MONEY "My team could NOT live without Skype. We use it for all of our internal conversations.

And when TalentEgg was first getting started, it also served as our extremely efficient and low-cost phone system!"

Lauren Friese | Founder, TalentEgg Inc.

The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) is an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs.

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NEWS

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BAHRAIN IN US JEWELRY SHOW BAHRAIN: Fifteen Bahraini

jewelry companies and 40 other jewelers are gearing up to participate in an international jewelry show in the US in May, which is to be held in Las Vegas.

“This will be a great opportunity for businesses to showcase their products in the US, away from their

traditional markets in the region,” said Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) pearl and gold jewellery committee head Mohammed Sajid Shaikh.

“This will also be the first time Bahrain’ jewellers will step outside their traditional strongholds of Asia, the Middle East and the GCC.”

Bahrain at Number 3

BAHRAIN: Bahrain has been ranked third in the Arab world, after

the UAE and Qatar, in a global report assessing travel and tourism competitiveness by the World Economic Forum. Although Bahrain slipped down 15 positions in the global rankings to 55, the report cited transport infrastructure, human resources and price competitiveness as its strong points, it stated.

The report found that although the country boasts good transport infrastructure, high-quality human resources and strong price competitiveness, it is seeing a weakening in the assessment of its tourism infrastructure, health and hygiene standards and ICT infrastructure.

Overall, Switzerland, Germany and Austria ranked the highest in the world for their travel and tourism industry competitiveness.

AL OSRA TO LAUNCH FIFTH OUTLET

BAHRAIN: Alosra Supermarket, a subsidiary of BMMI has announced plans to open its fifth outlet at the soon-to open Al Raya Shopping Centre, Juffair. Operated by One Bahrain Hospitality, the new four-storey neighborhood community center will be connected to the Residence Inn by Marriott Hotel and is scheduled for completion by the end of this year.

“As one of the capital’s most preferred locations with many modern residential neighborhoods, hotels and restaurants, Juffair will now boast another jewel in its

crown – the Al Raya Shopping Centre,” said One Bahrain Hospitality general manager Teodor Ardeleanu. “Strategically placed to deliver on our mission of everything closer to you, Al Raya promises to be a stylish boutique mall with Alosra as its anchor store.

“Neighboring commercial and residential buildings will benefit greatly from the retail chain’s fresh, high-quality and specialty products and friendly service.”

Alosra general manager Jaffar Al Asfoor said, “As our supermarket and brand expand, we need to ensure that quality and consistency are at the core of our operations in order to succeed.

“Having successfully received certification in the ISO 22000 food safety standard, we are pulling our weight to ensure this promise is fulfilled along with additional customer satisfaction initiatives in the pipeline.”

Tharawat acquires stake in Hungry Bunny BAHRAIN: Tharawat Investment House has acquired 49 per cent stake in Saudi fast food chain Hungry Bunny. The chain owns 38 branches, which operate throughout Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman under worldwide franchise agreements.

Arif Mohamed Al Alawi, Tharawat’s CEO, said: “The company is currently building a hightech facility using the latest European technological standards for processing different kinds of meat to be fully dedicated for its own brand and to serve other shopping centers.

The Hungry Bunny employs around 500 people with 2011 sales totaling more than SR52m.

7% Increase in Commercial Registration BAHRAIN: The number of commercial registrations increased by

6.6 per cent last year compared with 2011, according to the annual report on domestic trade submitted by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce to the Cabinet. Newly-registered enterprises and trade dealerships also rose by 32.5 per cent last year.

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10,000 Jobs On Offer

BAHRAIN: A multi-million dinar project could soon be launched to employ 10,000 Bahraini job-seekers. The ambitious employment scheme was yesterday scrutinized as His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al

Khalifa chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting.

The session discussed a memo submitted by Labour Minister Jameel Humaidan.

A batch of 4,000 university graduates will be hired as part of the employment scheme, estimated to cost BD35 million.

Two thousand diploma holders and 4,000 high school graduates will also be trained and offered jobs.

The financial and economic affairs committee was assigned to study the project which is set to be financed by the Labour Ministry in co-operation with Tamkeen. The same committee was tasked to co-ordinate with authorities concerned to ensure graduates meet the needs of the labour market.

Bahrain Duty Free profits go up in smoke

BAHRAIN: Bahrain Duty Free (BDF) said it is facing a challenging 2013 as the ‘death head skull’ symbol that now has to appear on all cigarette packets sold in the kingdom could cost the airport retailer 20 per cent of its profit this year.

The company can no longer sell duty free cigarettes at the airport because international tobacco companies are refusing to

supply them if the logo is on them.

The BFD is also reeling under pressure due to the cuts in Gulf Air flights and the closure of Bahrain Air threatening to reduce its customer base.

“It is a challenging year for the BDF as it comes to terms with an embargo by tobacco companies,” said its chairman Farouk Almoayyed while speaking at the company’s annual general meeting.

Renegotiated Premiums for Gasoil Term Contracts BAHRAIN: State-run Bahrain

Petroleum Co has re-negotiated premiums for April to December 2013 gasoil term contracts with up to nine companies at rates about 13 percent below those of the first quarter, industry sources have stated.

The company negotiated undisclosed volumes to sell gasoil with 500 parts-per-million (ppm) sulphur at a premium of about $2.60 a barrel above Middle East quotes, they added.

While a few companies may have dropped out of the term contract, the majority of the companies remain the same, a Gulf-based trader said.

“Some companies requested for decreased quantities of gasoil from April (compared with the first quarter), but largely the companies remain the same,” a second source said.

Term buyers include Galana Oil, Swiss Singapore, Independent Petroleum Group and Emirates National Oil Company, a third trader said, though this could not immediately be verified.

The premium for the March to December period is about 40 cents cheaper than the January to March premium negotiated with buyers late last year, reflecting weaker sentiment for

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the power generation fuel in the Gulf, traders said.

“The demand in Europe is very weak right now, so the arbitrage to send cargoes west is not workable and the Middle East is oversupplied at the moment,” one trader said.

Bapco clinched deals with several buyers for the 500 ppm sulphur gasoil term contracts for the first quarter of 2013 at a premium of $3 a barrel to Middle East quotes, while reserving the option to renegotiate term premiums after the first quarter.

Traders have said the premium for the first quarter was unusually high and had expected the levels to be lower from April.

NBB, insurance firm to buy major stake in BiSB BAHRAIN: National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) and Social Insurance

Organisation Asset Management Company (SIOAM) have announced that they were taking a controlling stake in Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB). The two financial institutions said they had agreed terms with The Investment Dar (TID) of Kuwait to purchase its and associated companies’ shareholding of 51.6 per cent in BisB.

Demand For Higher Pay BAHRAIN: Bahrain’s state

minister for information has called for better pay for journalists to help them carry out their “highly sensitive” work.

“The media sector is among the most sensitive sectors and is not less significant than the military or the judiciary,” Sameera Rajab said. “The media sector is crucial in providing the information and shaping public opinion in all societies. The mission of a media person is not the regular or administrative

work, but rather a highly dynamic mission that requires special budgets,” she told the lower chamber of the bicameral parliament.

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Biofuel from date palms

Alba eyes acquisition to secure supplies

BAHRAIN: Aluminium Bahrain

(Alba), owner of the world’s fourth-largest aluminium smelter, wants to take a stake in a mine or refinery as its impending expansion increases its demand for raw materials, its chief executive told Reuters.

The firm has begun feasibility work on a $2.5 billion sixth production line which will increase annual capacity by 400,000 tonnes, when it comes online at the end of 2015, from its current production of 890,000 tonnes a year.

Given the additional demand

BAHRAIN: A scientific

research study in Bahrain has concluded that it is possible to extract biofuel oil from the nuclei of date palms. Ten per cent is then turned into diesel after chemical processing and also the possibility to extract glycerin for use as a cosmetic product. Chemistry associate professor Dr Ahmed Abdurrahman Taha said that he had conducted a series of experiments to recycle farm waste and transform it into useful substances, asserting that he has already succeeded

for raw materials the new line will create, a focus on securing supplies at source instead of buying everything on the open market, becomes more important, chief executive officer Tim Murray told Reuters on the sidelines of a conference in the capital Manama.

“For line six, it would probably be an interesting opportunity to look for maybe a joint venture partner or an equity swap,” said Murray, who was promoted from chief finance and supply officer in October.

in extracting oil from the nucleus of date palms and then transformed it after chemical processing into biodiesel. Dr Taha pointed out that it is possible for the cosmetics industry to benefit from the study from the byproducts of the chemical process conducted to produce biodiesel in order to form natural glycerin for use in the industry. He added that the solid substances which remain from the transformation process can be useful as animal fodder as it contains a considerable quantity of protein and fibre.

Crescent Global new venture in Bahrain BAHRAIN: Crescent Global Group has announced the launch of a managing general agency (MGA) arrangement to oversee the development of a regional life platform.

Crescent Global Vie will be based in Bahrain and has great expansion ambitions, said a report in our sister publication, the Gulf Daily News. It is headed by Mounir Kallel, a seasoned insurance

big -tionary Describing business terminology

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professional with more than 20 years’ experience in the life insurance/family takaful business in the region.

VISION STATEMENT An aspirational description of what an organization would like to achieve or accomplish in the mid-term or long-term future. It is intended to serves as a clear guide for choosing current and future courses of action. See also mission statement.

Opportunities for Bahraini Firms BAHRAIN: In a speech delivered at the

Bahrain Association of Banks’ (BAB) CEO Luncheon, Dr Jarmo Kotilaine, Chief Economist, Bahrain Economic Development Board, focused on the excellent opportunities that Bahraini financial services companies are offered as the GCC takes a larger role in the world economy.

The speech highlighted that demographics and resource wealth are set to drive rapid economic growth in the GCC in the coming decades, and that this growth offers a range of potential opportunities for Bahraini companies.

These opportunities will be particularly strong for firms in the financial sector, as financial intermediation converges with Western standards, and as the growing and increasingly wealthy population looks for more sophisticated investment and savings products to safeguard its wealth for the long term. The strength of Bahrain’s financial industry means that the Kingdom is particularly well placed to take advantage of this.

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Tamkeen to step up training levels

BAHRAIN: Tamkeen, Bahrain’s labour fund, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Technical and Vocational Education UK (TVET UK) to enhance the level of training provided to Bahrainis.

The MoU will enable Tamkeen to benefit from TVET UK’s deep expertise in the area of technical and vocational training to further enhance its human capital development and private sector support programmes.

Among the benefits include further enhancing Tamkeen’s existing training offerings and developing more bespoke internationally-recognised programmes if needed, advancing employer-driven qualification and training systems by aligning industry and education, implementing best practices and policies in the technical educational sector, and acquiring topnotch training aids and developing training programmes on how to use them.

PORT ACHIEVES A ACHIEVE 11% VOLUME INCREASE BAHRAIN: The Khalifa Bin

Salman Port (KBSP) saw an 11 per cent growth in total local container volume last year, according to official data. Transshipment volumes have increased substantially by 149 per cent contributing significantly to this surge. Local container volumes increased by 11 per cent with local general cargo volumes moving up by 13 per cent when compared to the same period last year.

In November 2012, the port achieved record throughput

volumes since it commenced operations recording 66,247 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), and continued to maintain consistent growth in volumes throughout recording more than 0.5 million TEU by end of 2012, which is 40pc higher when compared with year 2011. Although gross crane productivity dropped from September 2012, the port managed to maintain consistent berth productivity due to improved resource planning.

Expanding on F1 Success BAHRAIN: Bahrain is looking to expand on the success of its Formula One event, including potentially using the Sakhir circuit for additional races.

Head of the kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund, Mumtalakat, Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji said there were numerous opportunities to leverage off the Formula One race, including linked events and greater use of the circuit, which is presently used only for the Grand Prix in April.

According to him, the circuit is not just an asset; it’s an opportunity,

which is still underutilized and has a lot of potential.

Mumtalakat would look to compliment the existing event, he said.

“What we want to do is develop such an event [that would result in] a big international event to be established in Bahrain,” he said.

Al Kooheji said the Formula One had become the primary image of Bahrain overseas and attracted a huge number of international visitors each year, making it a profitable business for the island nation.

Mantech To Distribute YRfree Technologies

BAHRAIN: YRfree

Technologies, a World leader in mobile video streaming technology, have appointed Mantech Computer Services, Bahrain, as their Distribution Partner for the GCC region.

Mantech, the longest established computer company in Bahrain, has an enviable client list across several governmental and commercial sectors, offering IT hardware and software solutions as well as physical security solutions. This makes them unique in being able to approach clients with knowledge and expertise in both areas that YRFree operate in.

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John Ridd, CEO and Founder of YRfree Technologies said, “Following a recent trip to Bahrain, hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board, we recognized the enormous potential of the region. Bahrain is a hub for science and innovation and the GCC is home to a wide range of forward looking companies, who have the funds available to invest in the latest technology. We were familiar with Mantech, through their association with SciTech Daresbury. Their service orientated culture and proactive approach to sales were just what we were looking for in a business partner”.

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QATAR, UAE INVESTORS TO BID FOR ARSENAL QATAR: A consortium from the Middle East

has launched the biggest ever-takeover bid for a football club with an offer of £1.5bn for Premier League side Arsenal.

The group, made up of investors from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, hope to tempt American owner Stan Kroenke with the world record sum, reports the Sunday Telegraph.

The mystery consortium members, who are apparently being backed by funds from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, are to bid for every share in the club and have promised the money will be invested in the faltering team, who face a battle to qualify for next season’s lucrative Champions League competition.

It blows out of the water the world’s previous highest bid for a football team the £800m was made by the American Glazer family for Manchester United and reinforces the growing power wielded by the Middle East in the European game.

Mumtalakat plans $150m Bahrain investment BAHRAIN: Bahrain sovereign

wealth fund Mumtalakat plans a multi-million pound investment in local projects, joining efforts to bolster the local economy.

Chief executive Mahmood Al-Kooheji said the fund was targeting $150 million of investments in the kingdom in 2013 as part of efforts to deploy funds in the country and expand its domestic portfolio.

big -tionary Describing business terminology

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Bahrain to Join WEC BAHRAIN: Bahrain is to

become the 93rd full member of the World Energy Council (WEC), a senior government minister has said. HE Minister of State for Electricity and Water Affairs Dr Abdulhussain Mirza said the WEC had proposed to Bahrain it should join one of the world’s most influential bodies dealing with energy during the WEC meeting in New Delhi, India last month.

He said in the future, Bahrain could also host the regional headquarters of the WEC. “Bahrain is known all over the world for the rapid strides it has made in the field of energy and this new step will further cement that perception.”

Dr Mirza said WEC is an impartial network of leaders and practitioners promoting

an affordable, stable and environmentally sensitive energy system for the greatest benefit of all.

HYPOTHESIS A supposition or explanation (theory) that is provisionally accepted in order to interpret certain events or phenomena, and to provide guidance for further investigation. A hypothesis may be proven correct or wrong, and must be capable of refutation. If it remains unrefuted by facts, it is said to be verified or corroborated.

BAHRAIN BOURSE TARGETING BIG GROWTH PUSH Bahrain Bourse is working towards creating a fullfledged business model for buyers and sellers alike, the exchange’s top official said yesterday.Bahrain Bourse director Fouad Rahman Rashid was addressing a gathering of international and local finance industry leaders during the Euromoney Bahrain conference.

SKILLS SHORTAGE ‘BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR INDUSTRY’ Warnings that oil industry safety standards are being jeopardized by a shortage of experienced staff are supported by a report published last month. As many as 32 per cent of respondents to the latest joint report from OilCareers.com, the international jobs board for the oil and gas industry, and partner Air Energi, a global provider of manpower solutions to the energy sector, highlighted the on-going skills shortage as the biggest threat to the sector. The lack of skilled trainers was identified as a major training issue by more than 20pc.

PENALTY SETTLEMENT Google will pay a $7 million penalty to settle an investigation into the Internet search leader’s collection of emails, passwords and other sensitive information sent over wireless networks in neighborhoods throughout America several years ago.

NEWS

AƩenƟon BIG readers email us your new s at, big@maxmediaco.com

ZUMA TO LAUNCH IN DUBAI DUBAI: Zuma, the iconic London restaurant, has announced plans to bring the brand to Abu Dhabi by the end of 2013.

Rainer Becker, co-founder and creator of Zuma, which has successfully launched six outposts at the wound the world, including Dubai, will open in the UAE capital in late 2013, a statement said.

It added that further launches in the Middle East were likely as the region was a “key expansion market for the company”.

The announcement comes in conjunction with further expansion into New York early 2014.

“The opening of Zuma Abu Dhabi is the result of the restaurants incredible popularity in the Middle East

and this new addition to the Abu Dhabi restaurant scene will take a similar pioneering approach to that of the launch of Zuma Dubai,” the statement said.

The new restaurant will be located on Sowwah Square on Al Maryah Island, in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s new Central Business District.

Credit Growth to Lag BAHRAIN: Credit growth across the Gulf region is expected to pick up pace this year to high single digits while it is expected to lag in the UAE and Bahrain, rating agency Moody’s Investors services said.

“Credit growth in Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia are recovering fast largely due to high oil prices and increased government spending. In the UAE, banks have become very conservative on lending while the recent central bank regulations have discouraged faster credit growth,” said Khalid F Howladar, vice president and senior credit officer of Moody’s.

Across the GCC, the rating agency projects a decline in non-performing loans with the exceptions of the UAE and Bahrain. “In the UAE problem loans are still climbing, but at a slower pace compared to last 3 years. Most of the asset quality issues in the UAE banking sector are largely linked to restructuring of Dubai entities,” said Howladar.

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19

BREAKDOWN OF NEWS AND NUMBERS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

SNIPPETS us$150 mn

The Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (Apicorp) has set up a $150Mfund aimed at leveraging growth opportunities in the petroleum product tanker charter market. It is the first investment fund to be established by Abicorp.

BD 2.2Mn

Nearly 50,000 cruise tourists have visited Bahrain since the season started in November, ploughing an estimated BD2.2M into the economy. 26 vessels, carrying mostly German passengers, have already docked at the Khalifa Bin Salman Port and another 16 are expected before season ends in March.

BD 36MN

34%

National carrier Gulf Air reduced its overall losses by more than 34%, compared with January last year, through implementation of cost saving measures and an aggressive efficiency drive. It is the result of a restructuring strategy, spearheaded jointly by the Board of Directors led by its chairman and Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and the airline’s management.

US$30BN The Arab world spends more than $30Bn to treat rare diseases, it was announced during a ceremony organized by the Arabian Gulf University to mark the International Day of Rare Disorders.

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

Batelco Group has announced a dividend of BD 36 Million for 2012.

They also announced a 10% bonus share issue.

The total cash dividend represents a 60% payout of last year’s profit.

US$200 A Boston father is paying $ 200 to his 14-year-old daughter to quit Facebook for five months.

18

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Labour closed 18 lingerie shops in Riyadh for not adhering to regulations that ban stores from employing male sales assistants.

us$ 1.28BN Etihad Rail, the state-backed firm building a $11 n railway network in the UAE secured &1.2bn of bank financing to build the first phase of the project.

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Transforming The Energy Future MEOS 2013 sees over 7000participants Key insights into the oil and gas industry highlighted

T

he 18th Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Middle East Oil and Gas Show and Conference was launched under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister of Bahrain Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa at the Bahrain International Exhibition Center.

Organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and Arabian Exhibition Management (AEM), MEOS is among the largest and best-attended technical events of its kind in the region. Over 7,000 oil and gas professionals converged at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre to debate and shape the future of oil and gas industry in the region over the course of the conference and parallel exhibition.

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“Global energy use is set to expand by 33 percent between 2011 and 2035 with an average growth rate of 1.3 percent per annum�

On Top: Plenary Session in Progress Left and Above: Dignitaries, guests and delegates at the event.

MARCH / APRIL 2013

23

Discussing Money and Strategy Euromoney Bahrain Conference Organized 24

MARCH / APRIL 2013

EUROMONEY IN ASSOCIATION with the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) organized the Euromoney Bahrain Conference at the Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa. The key topics discussed included the analysis of the short and medium term prospects for the Kingdom.

Key participants from Bahrain included H.E. Mr. Kamal Bin Ahmed, Minister of Transportation and Acting Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board; H.E. Mr. Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain; Mr. Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji CEO of Mumtalakat; Shaikh Mohamed Bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa Chief Executive of The Oil and Gas Holding Company (nogaholding); Mr. Abdulkarim Ahmed Bucheery Chief Executive of BBK and Chairman of Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB); Shaikh Hesham Bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa Deputy General Manager of the Bahrain Development Bank; Mr. Jamal Al-Hazeem CEO of BMI Bank and Mr. Fouad Rahman Rashid Director of the Bahrain Bourse.

Above: Dignitaries and guests at the event.

MARCH / APRIL 2013

25

BEING SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE Bahrain International Corporate Social Responsibility Conference and Exhibition 2013

The First Bahrain International Corporate Social Responsibility Conference and Exhibition was held at the Gulf International Convention Centre, under the patronage of HE Shaikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa.

T

he conference focused on the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the role of companies in serving the community.

It provided a unique platform for

government authorities, private sector, experts and the general public to meet and discuss the latest CSR trends worldwide and how to better serve the community. It featured a number of

community projects whereby organizations and individuals can cooperate in activating those projects from the planning and implementation process to a successful completion.

Left: HE the Minister addressing the conference.

Above & below: Dignitaries and guests at the event.

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HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance, Minister in charge of Oil and Gas inaugurated the ceremony in the presence of dignitaries and guests.

MARCH / APRIL 2013

27

SHOWCASING

TALENTS Entrepreneurs at the Bab Market

A

s part of the Spring of Culture festivities, the Ministry of Culture organized the BAB Market at Bab Al Bahrain over four weekends. It gave an opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services.

The market included 20 stalls set up along the covered walkway under the Bab promoting local handicrafts and products. It also included a pop-up gallery at the Bab Mall, with each exhibition staying up for a week.

There were numerous workshops on various topics, ranging from recycling bicycle parts to making musical instruments and screenprinting T-shirts.

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

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NEW LOGO LAUNCHED

Bin Hindi Informatics launches new company logo

After 20 years, Bin Hindi Informatics’s logo has been updated.

B

in Hind Informatics W.L.L. the sole distributor for Samsung Mobiles.

Laptops, Printers, Copiers and Enterprise Business Group Partner covering Audio Video, Home Appliances and Digital Imaging systems in Bahrain launched its new company logo. BHI’s announcement of the new logo stated that it intends to convey the company’s diverse set of products.

BHI has launched a corporate identity competition over the social networks via the social blog ehulool.com whereby more than 20 designers in Bahrain submitted their creative concepts. Then the best concept was selected and and modified to match our corporate objectives.

Bin Hindi Corporate Identity design elements working together in a systemic fashion, to convey a clear, crisp and simplistic message. The company colors are sported prominently in both image and text, ingeniously delivering completion and brevity. Interpretative license is given to the viewer to conjure. A solid 3 dimensional logo invites onlookers to read meaning into it. Spanning breadth and depth, scouring the globe for products to cater to its customers.

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

GOOD NEWS

FOR

FASHIONISTAS Luisa Spagnoli Arrives in Bahrain

T

op Italian brand, Luisa Spagnoli has opened its first outlet in Bahrain at the Moda Mall.

The company is known for its clients including members of the royal family like the late Princess Diana and Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton.

Al Hoshan Group chairman Shaikh Ahmed Al Hoshan opened the Luisa Spagnoli store in the presence of Italian Ambassador Alberto Vecchi and his wife Romina Vechi.

Dignitaries and guests at the launch of Luisa Spaglio at the Moda Mall. Al Hoshan Group chairman Shaikh Ahmed Al Hoshan cuts the ribbon, opening the store to Bahrain’s fashionistas.

MARCH / APRIL 2013

31

BAHRAIN’S

A look at some of the notable companies in the manufacturing biz of the Kingdom

MANUFACTURING

INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Bahrain is a preferred base for a number of manufacturing units. From aluminium to glass to ships or construction materials, the country has it all.

Here are some of the leading manufacturing companies in the Kingdom.

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Nass Abdulla Ahmed Nass set up his own civil construction and general trading business in 1963. He was soon undertaking major construction projects and quickly established a reputation for honest dealing and quality service. As his business grew, so did his need for a reliable local source of construction services such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing and joinery contracting and

BAMCO

of materials like cement, sand, aggregate and concrete. Therefore, during the 1970s, Abdulla Nass set up companies, many of which were the first of its kind in Bahrain, to provide these services and materials. These were followed in the 1980s by a range of specialist companies to meet the growing needs of the shipping and offshore industries. Also during this period, Abdulla Nass

formed a precast concrete company and entered the food import and wholesale business. He also established the first company in Bahrain to produce sulphuric acid.

Bahrain Alloys Manufacturing Co is a manufacturer of a wide range of Primary Aluminum Alloys and Master Alloys. Bamco commenced production in 1996. Casting Capacity is 30.000mt divided between foundry (Automotive & Die Casting) Alloys 25.000mt and Master Alloys (Remelts, Smelters and Die Castings) 5000 mt/yr.

Year of Establishment

1963 Chairman

Abdulla Nass Website

Y ear ea off E stabli t blishm h entt: 1 1995 995 Year Establishment: C hairman: Gert Rohrseitz Chairman: W ebsite: bahrainalloys.com Website:

nassgroup.com

Ă’ ASRY Since the commencement of operation of ASRY in September 1977 with a 500,000 tons dwt. dry-dock and two jetties, ASRY has gone through various expansions. In 1992, two floating docks were added which can handle vessels up to 120,000 tons dwt. and 80,000 tons dwt. respectively. In 2008, ASRY added two Slipways each with a dry berth length of 255 meters and a capacity of 5,000 tons dwt. Since the beginning, various types of marine and offshore vessels have

undergone repairs at ASRY. In short, ASRY is now capable of handling repairs of different types / sizes of vessels.

ALBA Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) consistently ranks as one of the largest and most modern aluminium smelters in the world. Known for its technological strength and innovative policies, Alba enforces strict environmental guidelines, maintains high track record for safety, and is widely regarded as one of the top ten performers on a global scale. Alba today produces more than 890,000 metric tons per annum of the highest-grade aluminium, with products including standard and T-ingots, extrusion billets, rolling slab, propertzi ingots, and molten aluminium.

Year of Establishment

1977

Chairman

Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al-Khalifa

Website

asry.net

Year of Establishment Chairman Website

1968

Mahmood Hashim Al-Kooheji alba.com

BAPCO BAPCO, wholly owned by the Government of Bahrain, is engaged in the oil industry including exploration and prospecting for oil, drilling, production, refining, distribution of petroleum products and natural gas, sales and exports of crude oil and refined products. The company owns a 250,000 barrel-a-day refinery, storage facilities for more than 14 million barrels, a marketing terminal, and a marine terminal for its petroleum products.

BAPCO’s prime customers for crude oil and refined products are based in the Middle East, India, the Far East, South East Asia and Africa, and 95 percent of refined products are exported.

Year of Establishment: 1929 Chairman: Adel Almoayyed Website: bapco.com

MARCH / APRIL 2013

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Year of Establishment

1936

General Manager

Majeed Shafea

Website

chevron.com

Chevron, Bahrain Chevron Bahrain, formerly Caltex Bahrain, was established to serve the demand for lubricant in Bahrain market including industrial, commercial and consumer demands. It is a leader in finished lubricants and leading manufacturer of premium base oil. Their lubricants organization supplies products to a variety of commercial, industrial and retail customers. A complete line of lubrication and coolant products including HavolinE, Delo, Ursa, Regal, Meropoa HDAX and Rando are sold under their three brands: Chevron, Texaco and Caltex.

GPIC Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company was established as a joint venture between GCC member states for the manufacture of petrochemicals and fertilizers.

GPIC uses natural gas, which is ready available as a feedstock for the production of ammonia, urea and methanol totaling 1.4 million tonnes each year.

Year of Establishment

1979 Chairman

HE Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa

BALEXCO Bahrain Aluminium Extrusion Company - BALEXCO remains as an outstanding company in the manufacture of aluminium extrusions. It has been a matter of pride that the clients of BALEXCO are aware that the organization is committed to manufacture high quality products which is a result of its investment in modern technologies and the constant

upgrading of its human resources in their competence and expertise in administration and technical skills. BALEXCO aims in providing solutions for homes, offices, industrial and other applications using aluminium extrusion and related technology. It has also been BALEXCO’s endeavor to pursue appropriate products to enhance value for our customers.

Year of Establishment

1977

Chairman

Mohammed H Al Nusuf

Website

balexco.com

Bahrain Industrial Filter Mfg WLL

Website

gpic.com

Ameeri Industries

Metals of Bahrain WLL Metals of Bahrain (MEBA) is a modern module industrial center established in Bahrain in 1992 The idea is to produce engineered Ferrous and Non- Ferrous Castings and components to the industrial community around the world.

Manufacturers of pumps, valves, hydraulic power transmission, water line fittings etc. have been our trade partners for the last 12 years. In 2003, MEBA launched its latest production line for casting Bronze and steel alloys. The nobake casting line uses the latest technology for metal casting and analysis.

Year of Establishment: 1992 Chairman: Rami Khalifa Website: meba.bh

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Ameeri Industries manufacture road safety, industrial vent, traffic signal barrier and light poles electrical switchgear, lighting and mechanical works. Their manufacturing brands include AMGARD, AMETECH and AMELITE. Ameeri International is the sole manufacturer of Light Poles and safety guardrails in the Kingdom.

Year of Establishment

1955

Managing Director

ADEL MOH’D ALI AMEERI

Website

ameeri.com.bh

Bahrain Industrial Filter Mfg WLL is in currently expanding its manufacturing capabilities to all types of filter products both dry and liquid filtration applications.

BIF can become the one stop shop for all filtration products for cement plants and all the major industries in the Kingdom, GCC and overseas.

Cemena Holding g Company p y BSC ©

Cemena is a holding company focusing on the cement business in the Middle East, North Africa (MENA) region and emerging markets. Cemena was launched

by Gulf Finance House (GFH), one of the leading Islamic Investment

Year of Establishment

1997

Chairman

Abdulnabi Al Sho’ala, Al Fanar Investment Holding

Website

bahrainfilter. com

banks in the region, in partnership with a number of GCC financial institutions and High Net-worth Individuals (HNI) with the objective to become the one of leading cement holding company in the MENA region. Established with an authorized capital of US$ 600 million, Cemena has built on its experienced team to create presence today in all of Bahrain, Syria and Libya, while further developments and projects are in the pipeline.

Year of Establishment Chairman Website

2008

Dr.Ahmed Al Mutawa cemena.com.bh

BRC Weldmesh (Gulf) WLL Throughout its 36 years of existence, BRC has grown in stature and product base from supplier of full concrete reinforcement solutions, to a market leader in the manufacture, delivery and installation of a comprehensive range of products that make

up the complete reinforcement cycle.

BRC’s advanced hi-tech manufacturing facilities, operating out of its factory premises at Mina Salman, have the capacity to provide around the clock production to meet cost-effective low, medium or high-level volume requirements

that comply with international standards to provide full customer satisfaction.

Year of Establishment

1976

Chairman

Khalid Almoayed

Website

brcgulf.com

Chemix Emulsion Co WLL Chemix Emulsion W.L.L. is one of the manufacturing units licensed by the Ministry of Industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which is specialized in the production and sale of Modified Bitumen in collaboration with the internationally renowned Akzo Nobel through a Technology Transfer / Tie-up. They are dedicated to providing the finest in product development, evaluation, testing, and independent laboratory certification for products used in the roofing and paving industry. In our laboratories, we can develop formulations based on locally available raw materials according to local or international specifications. This competence is based on a broad experience in application techniques gained at different places and under different conditions around Bahrain and GCC countries.

GARMCO Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill Company (GARMCO) is the largest aluminum rolling mill in the Middle East. They manufacture both standard and non-standard cut-tolength aluminum sheets, coils and circles used for a wide range of applications from food containers and stylish up-market hollowware to high-profile architecture and paint industry.

Year of Establishment

1981

CEO

Dr. Adel Hamad A. Rahman

Website

garmco. com

Year of Establishment 2001 Chairman Keith Hicks Website gulftemp.com

Gulf Scientific Glass Industry WLL Gulf glass manufactures all laboratory glass apparatus and pilot plant apparatus in Bahrain, Gulf Glass range of products includes all sorts of glass components and also various Assembly set-ups for filtration, distillation, and extraction and reflux process.

Year of Establishment

2012

Directors

Isa Abdulla Isa Al Mannai & G Jayaraman

Website

gulfscientificglass.com

Gulf Temperature Sensors Gulf Temperature Sensors (GTS) is the first and the only manufacturer of wide range of Thermocouples, RTDs, Thermowells and accessories in the Kingdom

of Bahrain & entire Middle East. It is the Temperature sensing division of Consolidated Ceramic Products Inc. (CCPI), based in the USA.

Jaradah Fiberglass and Marine Maintenance Year of Establishment

Jaradah is specialized in fiberglass fabrication, manufacturing and repairs. They also do professional boats and yachts refurbishment, ships fiberglass repairs and maintenance.

Middle East Blocks & Kerbs Factory manufactures and supplies a wide range of concrete blocks, paving bricks, road kerbs and slabs to the construction industry. All products comply with the highest international standards and supported by a full-fledged quality control and testing laboratory. All facilities are ISO 9001:2000 certified.

Ahmed Mansoor Al A’Ali

Website

al-aali.com/ building.php

Ahmed Al Shamlan

Website

jaradah.com

Midal Cable Ltd.

Middle East Blocks & Kerbs Factory

Chairman

2010

Chairman

Midal Cable manufactures Aluminium rod and electrical conductors. Within about thirty years of operation, the company’s output capacity has gone up to 180,000 MT/Year..

During this period Midal was rewarded for it’s continuous dedication to quality with the world renowned ISO 9001 certification, the first company in the Gulf, for rods, wires and conductors.

Year of Establishment

1977

Chairman

Khalid Al Zayani

Website

midalcable.com

MARCH / APRIL 2013

35

International Technical Supplies & Services WLL

Year of Establishment

1993

Chairman

Haji Hassan

Website

bahrainrubber.com

Bahrain Rubber Company Bahrain Rubber Company (BBC) is in one of the major rubber companies in the GCC region for the manufacture of industrial rubber and polyurethane products.

Bahrain Rubber Company is an ISO 9001:2008 compliant company established in 1993 with a mission to serve regional oil gas steel construction sector.

Awal Gulf

Year of Establishment

Awal Gulf is a refrigeration and air conditioning equipment manufacturer, unique in its class and industry size in Bahrain. It has three manufacturing plants in the Sitra Industrial Area and Bahrain International Investment Park in Hidd with a work force well over 1500.

Maskati Commercial Services manufactures paper and polyethylene products. More than one hundred employees work in the manufacturing plants.

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Ali Al Najjar

Website

itss-group.com

and manufacturing organizations, successfully moved from strength to strength and emerged as one of the largest industrial trading house in Bahrain.

Simultaneously it spread its wings to other GCC countries and now it is having full-fledged offices in UAE, OMAN, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, whereby it is effectively covering all GCC customers.

1970

Mohammed Kanoo

Website

awalgulf.com

supplier of Precast concrete in Gulf and has continued to develop through the years and remains the largest Precast concrete supplier in this region.

Maskati Commercial Services

1999

Executive Director

Chairman

Bahrain Precast Concrete Bahrain Pre Cast Concrete established with the purpose of manufacturing and supplying all types of Precast concrete components which includes, but is not limited to, Facade Elements, Precast Hollow core Slabs Staircases and Boundary Walls.

Following its success in Bahrain, the company later built operations in Dubai (1993), Abu Dhabi (2002), and Qatar (2002). Due to its high quality standards and capabilities, BPC Group has been a major

International Technical Supplies & Services (ITSS) was formed with a vision of customer focus. Prior to formation, ITSS was operating for more than 25 years in our parent company, Gulf Markets International as its Industrial Division. Since inception, ITSS with its highly specialized and custom made technical products, oriented towards industrial

Year of Establishment

Year of Establishment Chairman

1977

Haji Hassan

Website

bpcgroup.biz/company_ bpc_bahrain.htm

Year of Establishment

1982

Chairman

Website

Dr. Nabeel H. Al Maskati

maskatics.com

Bahrain Packs Bahrain Packs (United Paper Industries BSC) is engaged in the manufacture of quality corrugated cartons.

Its manufacturing facility is located in Bahrain’s well-known Industrial area of Sitra and is equipped with the most modern machinery for the manufacture of corrugated paper cartons. The company can produce all types of

printed and non-printed corrugated cartons.

Year of Establishment

1993

Chairman

Abdulla Hassan Buhindi

Website

bahrainpack.com

Gulf Closures Gulf Closures is a joint venture between Al Zayani Investments W.L.L and Aluminium Company Of America (Alcoa).

The company was established with a vision to manufacture and market the world’s best closure and is already renowned for providing products and services

that meet or exceed their customers’ expectations.

Year of Establishment

1992

Chairman

Hamid Rashid Alzayani

Website

alzayani.com/gulf_ closures.php

Alu Wheel AluWheel was established as a joint venture between Midal and Al Zayani Investment and BBS Kraftfahrzeugtechnik AG of Germany. Benefiting significantly from the combined economic advantage of direct low cost Aluminium source and state-of-the-art technology, Aluwheel grew to become the most technologically advanced and successful manufacturer of Aluminium wheel castings in the Gulf region.

Year of Establishment

1992

Chairman

Khalid Al Zayani

Website

midalcable.com/aluwheel.htm

Year of Establishment

2007

Chairman

Abdulla Ali Kanoo

Website

kanooplastics.com

Bahrain Blinds Manufacturing Manufacturing of all kinds of blinds (vertical, venetian, roller, wooden, roman, etc.). The first of its kind in Bahrain, they supply retail and wholesale markets, contractors, decorating companies and sell also to end users.

They have plans in the near future to expand in the Gulf area.

Kanoo Plastics Kanoo Plastics is a joint venture investment between Yousif Ahmed Kanoo and Compco Australia Pvt Ltd. It has been established to manufacture a range of plastic raw material compounds for rional and international markets.

Gulf Industrial Investment Co. GIIC produces high quality Direct Reduction grade Iron Oxide Pellets with an annual capacity of 11.0 million tons. GIIC operates two Allis-Chalmers (Grate-Kiln) pelletizing plants with an annual production capacity of 11.0 million tons of pellets for use in Direct Reduction (DR) plants.

Arabian Chemical Industries

Year of Establishment

1985

Chairman Website

Haji Hassan

arabianchemical.com

1985

Chairman

K Prasad

Website

giic.com.bh

Bahrain Welding Wire Products Mfg. Co. Bahrain Welding Wire Products Mfg. Co. (BWP) is a primary Aluminium based EC Rod, Alloy Rod, Wire & Alloy ingot casting operation based in the Kingdom Of Bahrain. The company has 4 main product categories - Rod/Wire, Ingot, T-bar & Sows.

Arabian Chemical Industries specializes in manufacture and sale of construction chemicals for the Building and Civil Engineering Industry – from groundbreaking to finishing for the past 2 decades.

Year of Establishment

Tylos Plastic Industries Tylos plastic Industries is a part of the Mohammed Yousif Al Hassan Group.

TPI is capable of producing an extensive product portfolio at an annual capacity of 15,000 metric tons, consisting of a variety of pipes and fittings made of PVC/CPVC/ PVC-U/HDPE/LDPE/PPR/MDPE and conforms to BS, BS/EN, DIN, AS/NZS, ASTM, NEMA amongst other standards, ranging from 20mm to 500mm and ½” to 12”.

All products are tailor made to client requirements and specifications.

Year of Establishment

2005

Chairman

Khaled Al Zayani

Website

bwwpm.com

Mashal Chemicals Mashal’s product range of quality chemicals and detergents have undergone progress type testing by many private independent institutions such tests are an independent assurance to customers that Mashal products are manufactured to the highest standards.

Year of Establishment

1983

Chairman

Dr Yousef Mashal

Website

mashalchemicals.com

MARCH / APRIL 2013

37

VIVA’s CCO: Andrew

Hanna

VIVA's continuous quest to excellence VIVA Bahrain has grown to be a leading player in a short period and has continuously managed to stay relevant to its customer base. We spoke with VIVA’s CCO, Mr. Andrew Hanna about the marketing strategies that have propelled VIVA into the limelight.

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“We strive to ensure that the key elements of value and innovation of our brand are always transparent and clear when delivered across our communication channels.”

What was the process and market research done prior to the launch of VIVA’s brand in Bahrain?

Overall, the research process was done in a pre-license and post license phase. Initially, there was extensive research done by STC as well as a number of external organizations that were engaged before bidding for the commercial license to operate in Bahrain. Additionally, the regulator was very supportive in providing relevant information on the market.

The research process consisted of using primary and secondary sources, as well as information and details about the overall market conditions.

Once the license was secured, then the VIVA team embarked on an extensive research with the agencies that were engaged to define the positioning and how best to communicate it amongst target audiences during and after the launch stage.

At the outset what was the strategic reason for naming the company VIVA Bahrain, instead of STC, as the mother company?

The decision was based on the outcome of the research done at the initial stage. It was a strategic decision made by the organization to ensure consistency across all its subsidiaries in international markets.

The decision to be named VIVA Bahrain has proven to be the right one as the brand’s success has been replicated not only regionally but internationally as well.

How did you manage to create a strong brand in a saturated market?

A lot of hard work and commitment from VIVA’s team has gone into establishing a succesful brand in the local market, not only in terms of presence but also in terms of relevance to our target market. Once we had established this and our value proposition, it then became much easier to remain consistent with the brand and to use the different tools and media to convey the right message to customers and establish the leading position that we have been very fortunate to have so far.

If you look at some of the global brands that are successful and resonate with their own customers, you will find that they will always be consistently relevant to their target market. To be relevant and consistent was something very important for us to achieve.

How do you measure VIVA’s brand equity?

We engage an external agency, which is an independent leading agency specialized in measuring brand equity and brand health across the world.

They do this for a number of large organizations in the region, ranging from consumer goods, to telecoms and service organizations. Therefore, their method has been tested across a wide range of industries.

VIVA engaged them since the outset to ensure the use of international methodology which is globally recognized in order to measure and gauge with existing and new customers, as well as the general market to measure VIVA’s brand health and equity.

How does VIVA manage to translate its brand attributes into day-to-day marketing initiatives/campaigns?

It’s an evolving process. At the outset, we ensured establishing what the VIVA brand would stand for, its positioning and the basic promises that were to be fulfilled and delivered to our customers.

We strive to ensure that the key elements of value and innovation of our brand are always transparent and clear when delivered across our communication channels. We execute a lot of work internally in terms of brand education, but we also make sure that we benchmark against our customers’ needs the products, propositions and promotions we want to develop. We ensure that any of these match the brand’s values and ideas, to ensure they are in line with our DNA in order to move forward.

This process also goes beyond developing new products, services and promotions; it actually extends to how we deal with our employees and the way we communicate internally.

Living the brand is something that is

extremely important for us and as such our team needs to live the brand both internally and externally.

How has VIVA as a brand evolved over the past three years?

We have managed to develop and interesting path in launching new products and services, while giving more value to our customers, being innovative and making sure that our customers are at the forefront.

We have continued to remain consistent in our approach of being simple and transparent, despite the increase in our products, the expansion of our distribution channel and retails outlets, as well as the increasing number of customers. We have always ensured that our transparency and values are consistent.

As any other company, we have evolved from a basic offering to more interesting, innovative and more value-oriented products and services. We have also evolved as an organization and the way we conduct ourselves, by ensuring that we have the right team in place, along with a development plan to achieve and become the company that we want to be. This further assists us in making sure that our position of always offering the right value and being innovative with our technology, products and services is at the forefront and that the people working at VIVA are proud of where they work.

How does VIVA plan to continue to transform itself?

The telecoms industry is continuously transforming and evolving. This constant change is driven by technology and we are very fortunate to be at the forefront of it, not just as an operator, but also in terms of the industry itself. VIVA will continue to evolve based on its customers’ needs and demands.

We are conscious and monitor what our customers demand; we also look into the changes that are taking place in the market not just in Bahrain, but also regionally and globally. This involves being aware MARCH / APRIL 2013

39

on how social media has changed the market over the last couple of years, how broadband and data are evolving and how people’s habits are changing in terms of moving away from the basic mobile phones, to very rich experience-type smartphones. By being aware of all these changes, we then act, not react, on them as quickly as possible to make sure that our customers are getting those benefits as soon as they desire them.

Customers are becoming a lot savvier not just in terms of technology but also in terms of realizing very quickly when a company is not transparent or doesn’t offer them the level of service that they desire.

Ultimately, customers hold the power of decision in terms of choosing whether to stay with an operator or not, and as such they control the destiny of many organizations.

How have you employed social media channels to engage with your target audience?

We are using social media channels extensively and have managed to achieve leadership in this segment in Bahrain. We are not just using social media in a passive way, we are using it in an active way by creating content, engaging and listening to customers.

We have wide presence in social and digital platforms through accounts established in the most popular social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin, Google + and more.

VIVA was the first operator to use social media to enhance our customer service by creating a VIVA Bahrain Support twitter account providing assistance to customers 24/7.

Our efforts in elevating the way we communicate with our customers have proven to be successful, evident through the increase in the number of Twitter followers to over 14,240 from only 600 in the beginning of September 2010, and the number of Facebook likes to 59,000 from only 6,000 in September 2010.

We are also using our website in a very interactive way with our customers, and through our portal we are also digitally interacting. It is important to highlight that the digital world is not becoming more social; it’s becoming more digital. As opposed to only using social media channels to communicate, customers are becoming a lot more digital in whatever they 40

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do. We are adopting this digital approach to our relationship with our customers, to the way we interact with our market by redefining how we engage and we position ourselves.

How has VIVA leveraged the power of co-branding through its sports sponsorships?

We have a number of partnerships and sponsorships in Bahrain, including the one with Manchester United, the VIVA Football League, which is Bahrain’s national football league, VIVA karting track, the Royal Golf Club and a strategic partnership with the Ritz Carlton for the swimming challenge.

Late last year, we supported the Bahrain Relay Marathon as well.

Our association with Manchester United and the VIVA Karting Track have been very positive in terms of co-branding. We use these partnerships quite extensively, not just from the branding point of view but also for a lot of cross-servicing type opportunities with our customers, as some of the benefits that we obtain are very relevant to our customer base.

Every single campaign goes through exactly the same level of depth of thought, research and the passion of the team to be successfully executed. It is also very important to be conscious and learn from previous experiences to ensure that what we do next is even more exciting.

To pinpoint only one campaign is difficult, because of the sheer number of campaigns that we launch. They are all relevant in their own way and have helped us achieve the overall business objectives.

Share with us some insight about the unique campaign and activities deployed to celebrate VIVA’s 3rd year anniversary?

The company’s third anniversary provided us with a great opportunity to do something a bit different. VIVA launched commercial services on the third of March and this was the third anniversary in the year 2013, so there were a couple of links with the number three and we didn’t want to miss the opportunity to highlight this.

“Our promise to our customers is that we will continue to be conscious of their needs, and that they will get the best value for their money.”

The support we are getting from our partners makes it much easier for us to associate ourselves with the right brands and use them to provide not just services but value to our customers. Each partnership is relevant to a particular segment and we look at them overall in terms of how relevant they are to the customer base and target market. We spend a lot of time and effort to make sure that when we are taking on a new partnership or sponsorship, it is relevant and it does fulfill the overall aim and big picture.

What have been VIVA’s most successful marketing campaigns to date?

Internally, we all have a soft spot for the launch campaign, it certainly put us on the map and it was the start of our organization.

We decided the campaign would focus on thanking our customers and the wider community of Bahrain for all their support throughout the last 3 years. We wanted to show appreciation not only by offering free products and services, but instead by engaging directly with them through a series of activities held along the weekend in different locations.

The 3rd Anniversary was a fantastic opportunity for us to show how our thinking can evolve in terms of innovation and doing things in different exciting ways!

How did the ‘VIVA Thank You Van’ and the ‘Tweet for a treat’ machine assist VIVA in engaging with the public during the anniversary?

The VIVA Thank You Van was an idea that we worked on for a little while. It

“Wee will do our best for our cuustomers to ggivve value in everythhing we do.” was something never done before in the region and different in terms of us going directly to our customers rather than they coming to us.

The Tweet for a Treat machine is very innovative and it has been a tremendous success. It allowed our customers to engage with us in line with our social media leadership.

In terms of offers, we felt it was necessary to offer something to all of them. The three days of free calls and SMS, which applied to our entire base, was our way of saying thank you to our customers.

What are VIVA’s key marketing initiatives for 2013?

Our promise to our customers is that we will continue to be conscious of their needs, and ensure they will get the best value for their money. VIVA will continue to innovate and bring to them new technologies first.

How that translates to whether it is a particular product or a particular service or a campaign is certainly something that we are continuously

working on. But the promise from VIVA is that we will do our best for our customers to give value in everything we do.

Currently, what is the perception that the public has of VIVA’s brand?

There is a certain depth of knowledge that we have from the independent research that we do, the customer satisfaction surveys and the brand health surveys.

In some areas, the perception is extremely positive. In some other areas, customers have also been very open with us in terms of providing their feedback on the things that we need to improve on. Overall we have successfully positioned VIVA as an innovative and energetic brand that people in Bahrain relate to and trust.

This has been achieved by deploying a high visibility campaign and by strongly focusing on providing excellent customer experience so that in every interaction a customer has with VIVA, the influence on their perception of the brand is positive.

What are key marketing insights in the mobile telecommunications industry?

The key marketing insights are related to social media, personalized engagement with customers, being very conscious of your brand and how it becomes and stays relevant; this in addition to technology and the way in which customers use technologies and how do we engage with them based on that method of usage.

I think everyone is looking at all the new technologies and wondering how to make those technologies relevant, how do we use them in a customer relevant way, which is very much a marketing draw. But also it’s relevant to look at what’s happening in the digital and social worlds. How this is evolving to allow for real time dialogue with customers and their feedback. This allows companies to act immediately, which is no longer the old school of marketing. These are some of the general challenges that many companies are going through, and in our industry, the only difference is that we are at the forefront of that technology and as such people expect us to be using it first.

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ARTIST EXTRAORDINAIRE

AMINA

AL ABBASI Perfect Blend of Modern Art, Unique Ideas and a pinch of tradition

M

odern Art with a traditional touch: that’s what Amina Al Abbasi is known for. With the launch of her online gallery and exhibitions outside Bahrain, this young artist is certainly someone to watch out for.

Tell us your journey so far. How did you set up the business?

I have been painting since I was a little girl, but never in my wildest dreams had I expected to be an artist who has her artworks hung around Bahrain and the Gulf.

I started my business, Amina Gallery 2 years ago when I started exhibiting my artwork at local mini exhibitions and events like Al Riwaq Market, the Annual Bahrain Female Exhibition and Al Aali Art Festival Exhibition, which helped me establish contacts.

It was always a dream to have my first solo exhibition, and a bigger one to be able to showcase my work and represent Bahrain abroad. It finally became a reality when I had my first solo exhibition in Qatar in February under the patronage of HE the Minister of Arts and Culture of Qatar. My exhibition in Qatar helped me grow and increased my exposure in the GCC.

Are you a full time artist? How do you balance the time?

I am proud to say that I am finally a full time artist. I am a Banking and Finance Graduate and I worked at a large local bank for 2 years but I followed my instincts and advise from people I admire and respect and decided to focus on my artwork full time.

Apart from paintings, what else do you sell?

And what inspired you to launch it?

Creativity is my passion; I try to spread my artwork wherever I go. I mainly do commissioned and original paintings. But

as a business graduate and an ex-banker, I know that you have to market your work, and spread the word as much as possible to create attention towards your work. So, as a way to get more exposure to my main work, I started creating smart phone covers with high-resolution laser prints of my paintings on them.

The whole concept is to “Walk around with a piece of art in the palm of your hands”. Today I have around 1000 people walking around with my artwork in Bahrain and the GCC. I also offer high quality linen cushions with my paintings printed on them, as well as partition pieces, sketch line (affordable prints), and many more products in the pipeline.

“The most difficult and most exciting part of setting up my business was deciding to move out of a secure full time job in one of the largest local commercial banks and dive into the unknown.”

What was the biggest hurdle, while setting up your business and what was the most exciting moment so far?

The most difficult and most exciting part of setting up my business was deciding to move out of a secure full time job in one of the largest local commercial banks and dive into the unknown. The psychological prison and sense of false security I had in my mind made my shift difficult at first but the rush I get every morning I wake up now is priceless.

How did you get people to notice your product?

Appreciating quality and honesty is my main marketing strategy. My art focuses on modern art with a traditional touch so I offer a product that makes old into new and boring into stylish. It is amazing how no matter how much globalization has affected our thoughts and way of life, I’ve seen that people always go back to their roots and history. So a marriage between the past and the current is what people love about my work.

I mainly depend on word of mouth and social media to market my work. I try to walk people through my art experience and exhibitions, and update them with my latest products through Instagram and Twitter, and it has been a very useful marketing strategy as I have a follower base of more than 6000.

What key personal characteristics do you see in yourself that were especially important for your success?

Creativity, ability to set long term and short term goal and then create a plan to achieve them and perseverance It took one person for the gallery idea to flourish and come about, and move my art from the basement at home to where it is today, and that’s my husband, as he saw my work and encouraged me right from the beginning to start showcasing my work, and it hasn’t stopped since.

How can a customer place an order?

Through my website www. aminagallery.com , as for the paintings I usually arrange to go personally to see the place and take pictures of the space, and create a painting that fits the space perfectly in terms of size, colors and theme. Since launching my website in September 2012 I’ve had over 6000 unique visitors from around the world.

Advice to young artists who want to launch their own business?

Build your own dream, because if you don’t build your own someone else will hire you to build theirs.

Which other countries is it available in? Tell us about how you expanded outside Bahrain.

My artwork is made here in Bahrain of course, but is shipped around the GCC. Through my website and social media such as Instagram and Facebook, I was approached by many retailers and I have selectively chosen to deal with some in Bahrain, Doha, Kuwait, Riyadh, Jeddah and am in the process of

closing a deal in Dubai. Retailers look for unique ideas, which I offer and I look for unique vendors to sell my products.

What next?

Above: Unique items customized by Amina Al Abbasi including cushion covers, iPhone covers and partition pieces.

I have been chosen to donate a painting to HH Sh. Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s organization, “Noor Dubai”, which is going to be auctioned by the biggest auctioneers in the world “Christies”, its an honor to have my work recognized and auctioned by such a great historical entity and for such a great cause.

I am also in the process of opening “Amina Gallery” at a local mall, with paintings and many art inspired products.

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43

Y UMYMTM Y Y M M U IN

THE

COOKIE Reem Al Mousawi, Amina Al Atassi and Khaled Almoayyed had a sweet tooth and a passion for cookies. This motivated them to launch ‘The Cookie Jar’, a one of its kind cookie shop.

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JAR

We focused on the cookie because we had a distinct dough we liked, which we wanted to share with everyone else.

Unlike the cake or the cupcake, it’s an indulgence you don’t have to feel guilty about because of its size. " " $

!

At the moment, we are currently focusing all our energy on just The Cookie Jar as we would like to expand and move on to the next level at a consistent pace.

" # # " %$

# $

By background expertise, you can say we know how to make a good homemade cake, and thus evolved the cookie. We’ve experimented for a few years during university and we became known to friends as the dessert people!

$ !

# "

At the moment, we bake them ourselves, as we don’t want to give the recipes away. Of course, we have hired help in the operational department.

However, in the near future, we would like to expand our training methods to a team of experts with baking background and select them according to their experience.

!

" &

Every cookie dough batch is more or less the same. It is how we make it that differs. We use premium ingredients and make sure it has the same soft chewy texture. And if not that way, then it’s not our cookie. Plus, most of them have memorable names! " " # " # $ "

We created a buzz worthy online marketing campaign through videos and mouthwatering photos to promote our launch at Alriwaq’s Market 338. We used Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (social media) to create a following and lots of hype. Due to the creative promotion we started, we attracted a large crowd (we’re talking long queues!) on a daily basis that wanted to try our cookies. We were forced to push

ourselves to meet this self-made demand. In the end, we ended up selling out every single day at Market 338; keep in mind that each day we baked around a 100 cookies more than the day before and it was never enough!

Our families and close friends were our ďŹ rst customers. # $

# $

Financial organization and setting up an effective system to produce the perfect cookies every time were some of the toughest aspects.

" # "

" Some of the challenges of this industry are staying current and original, being consistently creative (so that our customers do not lose interest), and being perceived as just another bakery in Bahrain. $$ " $ " By phone, email or through social media. We also created a great menu that you can download from our Facebook page.

"

" We receive positive feedback almost everyday, as our customers love posting photos of our cookies on Instagram while commenting on how much they loved them or couldn’t keep their hands off of them. But during our launch at Market 338, while we were setting up our stall, a large group of girls approached us and said that they came all the way from Saudi just to get our cookies!

Yet, by far our most creative feedback was when a dear customer sent us a video of her son saying, “Yummy yummy in my tummy!�, which slays you with cuteness and represented the innocence or joy of cookies and our business. Kids don’t lie!

We recently launched a Cookie Jar Juniors initiative to cater to children in which adorable videos were made with our young fans.

$ Without revealing too much, we want to make The Cookie Jar into a sustainable brand name in the region.

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GET YOURSELF BRANDED

Branding is a way of clearly highlighting what makes your offer fer different to, and more desirable than, anyone else’s.

Once an organization has a clear understanding of what it wants to say in the market in terms of what to sell, to whom and at what price – coupled with a demonstration of core values – it needs to set about actually TELLING people.

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P

eople are generally willing to pay more for a well-branded product than they are for something, which is largely unbranded. For example, Apple shifted from computer business to mass-market entertainment brand with iPod marketing drawing heavily on people’s love of (and connection with) music. By moving into music and film, Apple has redefined what the company does and shifted its brand association to something that connects with larger numbers of people outside the computing or creative community.

Simply, their branding drove new markets and revenues.

The author Patrick Hanlon looked at some of the worlds leading brands and suggests that these are the core approaches to brand development:

The Creation Story

People get drawn into your story of

how you started. Check out interviews in the media and you will see that the entrepreneur is usually asked, “how did you get started?”

The Creed

Your mission statement gives people and easy-to-understand picture of where you are and where you are going.

Who are you? What do you stand for?

The Icons

Logos, symbols, and short sayings form the icons of a brand. Think of McDonald’s and we have the golden arches. Think of Nike and we have the swoosh. Both of these are so important to the brand that they are trademarked. Add to this, Cadbury has trademarked the specific color purple and lastminute.com have trademarked a specific variant of pink.

The Rituals

The experiences created when people interact with your company and your product can help you to stand out. If you made it a condition of joining your gym that you had to sign over a $1,000 bond that guarantees that you will sign into the gym once a week, every week – and that you forfeit the bond if you fail to hit a certain weight within six months… how committed to the gym would you be? How motivated would you be to achieve that target? How about if, on you achieving that goal, you not only get the $1,000 back but also a refund on your membership and a free spa session? the ritual can make the gym different in the marketplace.

The Sacred Words

Some organizations use the same words over and over again to define themselves or their products. Apple’s main sacred word is actually just the letter i (iMac, iPod, iPad, iPhone).

The retailer Tesco refers to “Every Little Helps” whilst the mobile phone company O2 would refer to being “better connected”.

The Leader

Successful brands also have a leader or visionary who defines the company or products. These people include Steve Jobs, Richard Branson, and Bill Gates.

Add to this, Seth Godin will tell you in his book ‘Purple Cows’ that creative advertising is less effective today because of chatter

and noise from so many media and that companies should produce remarkable products and target people who are likely to spread word of mouth about the product.

Whereas a logo is a business’ identification via a recognizable mark or symbol, your brand is the emotion behind what someone feels, sees and tastes when they interact with your company.

At the core, branding is an emotional experience…. but the brand is only worth something when you have a great product or service to back it up.

Neil Fogarty is an international speaker, adviser, mentor, consultant and the author of Crack On and Kill Your Salesman. For more information visit www.neilfogarty. com. You can also visit his blog sparkglobalbusiness.com/wp/blog.

“Your mission statement gives people and easy-tounderstand picture of where you are and where you are going.”

The Pagans

Pagans are you opposites – who you are not – it is not enough to tell people what you are all about, you also need to tell people what you are against. If you organization is anti-smoking then how do you communicate it; how do you demonstrate it?

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47

STRENGTHEN YOUR

ORGANIZATION’S

CULTURE

Your organization’s culture might be sick but you can heal it. Here are a few tips of how you can strengthen your organization’s culture.

Most days we walk through life unaware of conversations occurring around us. And then there are those times you overhear a conversation that stops you dead in your tracks. You actually have to hit rewind in your brain and ask “did they actually just say that?”

Ever have one of those moments? Clearly I did recently.

I

was heading to a client site the other morning. As I headed out of my hotel room, I was rumblin’ bumblin’ stumblin’ down the hall (can I get a Chris Berman “holla holla!”?).

My sole mission in life at that point was to get a second cup of coffee from the lobby (and anyone who knows me knows The Rule – don’t speak to me until after my second cup o’ Joe).

Clearly my mind was foggier than Yoda’s swamp on Dagobah.

As I passed two housekeepers who were conversing in the hallway, I heard it – the statement that shocked me more than hearing “I’m your father Luke.”

One housekeeper said “Just look busy when she goes by. That’ll keep her off your ass for the rest of the morning.”

Note: this was VERBATIM! Despite the caffeine-deficiencyinduced lack of a solid connection between my brain and my eardrum at that point, I was still able to process the enormity of this statement. “Just look busy.” Wow. I was floored.

As I listened to another sentence or two, I figured out “she” was their boss and the housekeeper giving the advice was breaking in a rookie. Danger Will Robinson! This organization’s culture was about to crash harder than an Explorer still riding on recalled Firestones.

"Clearly articulate articulat ate te fo your for yo team eam what wha wh at at OUTCOMES TCOMES yo you you’re ’re re looking ing for fo and hold hold them accountable ac fo for delivering delive vering ring the them. m. Give Give them em primac primacy acy of purpose purpose so they eyy know where where they’re they ey’re trying to g go o and will figure igure out the right right sett of activitie activitiess to get ac g geet them there there." re." ."

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“JUST LOOK BUSY.” AMAZING ADVICE. THE IMPLICATIONS WERE STAGGERING. CLEARLY THE CULTURE HERE HAD SOME MAJOR ISSUES:

1. Their manager clearly emphasized activity more than

output. This is the kind of person who wants to see hundreds of reports and checklists. They want to see people scurrying around all the time. They focus maniacally on “busy” and lose sight of the outcome. As long as arms and legs are moving, good things must be happening.

2. Training in this organization is lax. There’s no QC to ensure only the best and most capable associates are given the privilege of onboarding a rookie. Missing this critical step only ensures bad habits are passed from one generation to the next.

3. Senior management isn’t doing their job. They’re letting the manager in the first bullet point above run their organization into the ground. Senior management should be out scouring the organization looking for these critical warning signs of a culture heading toward the cliff.

Gee, thanks Mike. Like it’s hard to throw rocks at bad behaviors?

Fine. I know you’re looking for something practical you can use. How about the following:

å

RESULTS COUNT. NOT ACTIVITY. Results. Clearly articulate for your team what OUTCOMES you’re looking for and hold them accountable for delivering them. Give them primacy of purpose so they know where they’re trying to go and will figure out the right set of activities to get them there. When you see wasted activity that doesn’t drive toward a result you’ve agreed upon, send a strong message to the organization and kill said activity. Explain to them you don’t pay for activity – you pay for results. Show them how said activity does nothing to advance the organization toward the outcomes you’re striving for.

ç

INVEST THE TIME IN FIGURING OUT WHO’S ALLOWED TO TALK TO NEWBIES (or as my son would call you on XBOX Live – a “noob”). Make it a badge of honor for an associate to be designated an official “on-boarder.” The Ritz Carlton does some amazing work in this arena. Seasoned associates work closely with their assigned new hire for a prolonged period of time before that new hire is even allowed to speak to a guest. When someone achieves the status of Noob Onboarder, make it an event.

Praise them for being competent enough for you to place the trust of the organization in their hands.

Bestow the honor and responsibility for being a steward of the culture upon them (and punctuate it with the great Spider-Man line of “with great power comes great responsibility”).

Help your folks understand in a very tangible way what you expect of them. Show, don’t tell.

é

IF YOU’RE “SENIOR MANAGEMENT,” GO WALK YOUR HALLS. You’ll see and learn some amazing things. And remember – if you see it, you own it! If everyone knows who you are and is on their best behavior when they see you, send a surrogate out to walk the halls for you so they can observe your associates’ behaviors in their natural habitat. Have the pulse of the organization and when you hear “just look busy” find that manager responsible and fix it. Immediately.

Look – none of us want to work somewhere where the culture is crappy and lax (or even worse give our business to said organization).

Emphasize the importance of results. Help your team understand they carry your culture every day. If that culture is toxic, you’ll simply poison your noobs and make it worse. As a leader, it’s on you to ensure only the purest essence of what you want your culture to be is passed along to future generations of leaders on your team.

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49

THE

VALUE OF

CONFUSION

Are you confused about how to proceed with your hottest new idea or project? If so, take heart! Confusion is not always a bad thing.

In fact, it’s often a necessary part of the creative process.

The weirdness enters when you start judging yourself for being confused.

Then, instead of benefiting from this normal stage of “not knowing” you end up in endless rounds of self-talk, procrastination, and worry.

WHAT IS CONFUSION, REALLY?

Technically speaking, it’s a state of mind in which the elements you are dealing with appear to be indiscriminately mixed, out of whack, or unable to be interpreted to your satisfaction.

Everyone from Einstein to Mickey Mouse has had this experience. It comes with the territory of trying to innovate.

Most of us, unfortunately, have a hard time acknowledging it.

“Not knowing” has become a euphemism for “ignorance”.

And so begins our curious routine of appearing to know and giving bogus answers -- to ourselves and others -- in a pitiful attempt to mask our confusion and maintain a sense of control, brilliance, and selfhood.

Our discomfort with not knowing prevents us from mining the value of this potentially fertile time of dislocation.

Picasso understood. “The act of creation,” he said, “is first of all an act of destruction.”

Great breakthroughs often emerge after times of dissolution, chaos, and confusion.

Wasn’t the universe itself created out of chaos?

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llya Prigogine, a leading brain researcher, describes this phenomenon as the “Theory of Dissipative Structures”. Simply put, when things fall apart, they eventually reorganize themselves on a higher level (if they don’t first become extinct).

And while this transition stage certainly looks and feels like confusion, what’s really happening is that the old structures are giving way to the new.

Lao Tzu, one of China’s most revered sages, knew all about this: “I am a fool, oh yes, I am confused.

Other men are clear and bright.

But I alone am dim and weak.

Other men are sharp and clever, But I alone am dull and stupid.

Oh, I drift like the waves of the sea, Without direction, like the restless wind.”

Somehow, he knew that things needed to be a little mixed up for there to be space for something new to enter his life. He knew that sometimes it was wisest just to let life unfold -- and that any knee-jerk attempt to clear up what he perceived to be confusion would only leave him with his old habits, patterns, and routines.

There is no need to fight confusion. Let it be.

It’s a stage we must pass through on the road to creation. Fighting confusion only makes it worse -- like trying to clean a dirty pond by poking at it with a stick.

And, besides, even while our conscious mind is telling us we’re confused, our subconscious mind is processing a mile a minute to come up with some amazing solutions. In the shower. While we’re exercising. Even in our dreams.

LOOK AT IT THIS WAY...

First, we refuse (to have our status quo threatened). Then, we get confused (trying to sort out all the new input). Then, we try to diffuse the process (by regressing or denying.)

Eventually, we get infused(inundated by new insights).

And, finally, we get fused (connecting with previously unrelated elements to form a new and unified whole).

YOUR NEXT STEP?

Allow confusion to be what it is -- the catalyst for new and more elegant outcomes.

And if you really can’t stand the confusion, here are seven simple things you can do to go beyond it: å Take a break from the problem at hand ç Identify what’s confusing you. Name it. é Talk about your confusion with friends è Seek out missing information ê Redefine your problem, starting with the words “How can I?”

ë Pay attention to your dreams and other

clues bubbling up from your subconscious

í Maintain a longer term perspective (“this too shall pass”)

Mitch Ditkoff is the Co-founder and President of Idea Champions. He can be contacted on: e-mail - mitch@ideachampions.com and can be followed on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/mitchditkoff.

For more information visit the Heart of Innovation blog www.ideachampions. com/weblogs and Idea Champions at www.ideachampions.com

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TURN SETBACKS 5 STEPS TO TURN YOUR BUSINESS SETBACK INTO A SUCCESS

Everyone knows the saying, “When life gives you lemons, then make lemonade,” but have you heard anyone explain exactly how to make the delicious lemonade from such a sour lemon? The key word in that phrase is make, which requires action. In the face of adversity, people often believe that simply having a positive attitude is enough to overcome a problem and get back on track. No matter how hard you think positively about your immediate setback, or how many times you tell yourself, “I’m not going to let this get me down,” you simply can’t make lemonade with just your thoughts.

A

t a certain point, you need to roll up your sleeves and take action.

Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of setbacks in both my business and my personal life.

I have started and shut down more businesses than I care to admit, and one of my most notorious advertising mistakes cost me over $10,000 in less than 24 hours. That one hurt.

But looking back, I realize most of my biggest setbacks were really catalysts for breakthroughs, both professional and personal. Each time, I was forced to critically assess my situation and create a new and improved plan of attack.

This process can be boiled down into 5 steps. Next time you run into a business or personal hiccup, then I recommend you give this a shot:

the problem head on.

1Address

The first step is critical. You must first identify and admit you have a problem before you can work toward a solution. I always find this is the hardest step because it’s so much easier to stay in denial than address your problems head-on.

For example, one of my private clients used to rely exclusively on Google AdWords to generate new leads and sales. Though the company was doing well financially, they were extremely vulnerable: if anything happened to their AdWords account, then they could go out of business overnight. This was a problem that needed to be addressed quickly, before it was too late.

Are there any weaknesses in your business you’re currently ignoring?

Admit the problem immediately so you can move forward.

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the symptoms and search for the root.

2List

The second step is to identify the root cause of the problem. In many cases, the most obvious symptoms are not the root cause of the problem. For example, when my client would have a slow month, the blame was typically placed on how the Google AdWords campaign was managed. However, that wasn’t the issue — the real problem was relying on just one marketing channel for all leads and sales.

List all of your symptoms (i.e. no phone calls, no leads, no sales, etc) and then ask yourself why these symptoms are occurring. Are there no phone calls because you’re not advertising effectively? Are you utilizing all available marketing channels or are you relying on just one?

inside and outside your industry.

3Research

The third step is to find solutions to your core problem. Oftentimes, you’ll

TO SUCCESS they have significantly reduced their reliance on Google AdWords.

They have also discovered new ways to increase their customer lifetime value by almost 50 percent. None of this would have been possible if they didn’t take that important first step to recognize the problem.

5Take action!

Stop thinking and simply take action. If you followed the steps to this point, then there’s no need to overthink things. Again, you won’t make any lemonade with positive thinking alone. And hopefully you found solutions, either inside or outside of your industry, that will propel you to a business breakthrough! find the best ideas outside of your own industry.

In my example, we had to quickly learn how to effectively use more marketing channels. The obvious solution was to expand to more ad outlets other than Google AdWords.

However, we also studied direct mail, TV, and radio ad campaigns from some of the top direct response companies across different industries. This allowed us to not only diversify, but also improve what was already working by applying proven marketing tactics.

Don’t be afraid to look at how other businesses outside of your industry are handling your core problem. This is typically where you’ll find your business breakthroughs.

attack to get back on track. What are the key milestones you want to hit to give you confidence you’re moving in the right direction?

My client set a goal to identify one or more profitable marketing channels every quarter. By working toward this goal over the past year,

Phil Frost is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Main Street ROI in New York, NY. Main Street ROI develops step-by-step training courses to make online marketing simple and more profitable for small businesses. Click here to get the 5 steps to rank #1 in Google in 30 days or less.

the key steps to take.

4List

At this point, you’ve identified the root problem and researched your solutions. Now it’s time to write down your one- to three-month plan of

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5353

TALK YOURSELF TO

VICTORY

HOW TO SET GOALS YOU’LL ACTUALLY ACHIEVE: SELF-TALK Instructional self-talk is the internal commentary that happens while we are trying to complete a challenging activity or task. For example, while completing a difficult report at work, your instructional self-talk might sound like, “OK — open up Powerpoint, find a title image, make a chart on the recent statistics…”

This kind of self-talk actually helps us in ways researchers (1) are just beginning to understand — especially with regards to goal-setting. It can help you:

1

Battle Distractions

In today’s digital world — filled with Blackberries, laptops and iPads — it is difficult to focus on a task, especially a challenging one. Instructional self-talk actually lets us focus on the most important basics of the task at hand and help our mind block out anything happening around us. So, when you are working on a report and you only have a few hours to do it, instructional self-talk will help you get the report done faster by blocking out your pinging inbox and beeping phone.

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2

Be More Logical

Saying tasks out loud or at least breaking down tasks mentally helps us make calculated decisions on what to do next. Instructional self-talk will help you make better decisions. For example, think about when you are trying to decide how to split up a project at work.

Engaging in instructional self-talk will help you make better decisions on who to choose because it ensures you are thinking through every logical step in the project.

3

Beat Out Emotions

For entrepreneurs, it’s very important to keep emotions out of business decisions. Researchers found that instructional self-talk does exactly that: It helps you control your emotions as you move through each task. For example, if you are thinking about hiring someone or bringing them onto your team, but are swayed by your personal friendship, instructional self-talk can help you make a clear, unbiased decision.

4

How to Incorporate Instructional Self-Talk

Now that you know the benefits of self-talk, there are a few ways you can incorporate it into your day-to-day work life:

Plan ahead for the tasks you know you find the most challenging. Book into your calendar to try instructional self-talk before it is due.

Researchers found that self-talk is the most successful when thinkers first ruminate on their end goal, make a plan and then walk through it. So, try planning out what you want to do before starting.

After using instructional self-talk, reflect on how effective it was for you. Do you do better speaking out loud or does that embarrass you? Did you make a plan ahead of time or just dive in? Figure out how you want to incorporate self-talk into your routine by reflecting on what worked — and did not work — for you.

Instructional self-talk takes a little getting used to, but is worth the results!

Vanessa Van Edwards specializes in social and emotional intelligence research and development.

The focus of her company is to combine human behavior research and tech trends.

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A POWERFUL SUCCESS HABIT

Typically, when considering approaches to improve business outcomes, we compartmentalize. We look at ways to improve overall strategy, the skills of our leaders, sales, customer service, etc.

W

hat if there were something very simple that we could do personally, moment-tomoment, that has a significant impact on nearly every area of our professional or business success – a sort of “ success habit”?

The simple practice of mindfulness is just such a habit.

This is why many leading companies like Google, Intel, Raytheon, General Mills, and Genentech offer mindfulness training for leaders and employees in all positions.

Mindfulness training is just a simple shift in perspective that allows us to create and maintain some space between ourselves and our thoughts/emotions. As simple as this sounds, making mindfulness a habit has numerous links directly to the bottom line. Below are three examples:

1

INCREASED STRESS RESILIENCE – Perhaps the most well-researched benefit of the practice of mindfulness is helping people to face stressful situations with a reduced adverse stress response. Reducing the adverse effects of stress has a direct impact on profit because it helps people to be more creative, make better decisions, be more productive while at work, miss less days due to illness, and reduce health care costs.

2

PEOPLE SKILLS / EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE – There is now a tremendous amount of research 56

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demonstrating what thought leaders like Dale Carnegie had said for decades: The single most important ingredient for high levels of performance, especially as leaders, is emotional intelligence, commonly referred to simply as “people skills.”

Mindfulness is arguably the most effective method there is for increasing emotional intelligence, which is why one of the most popular training programs at Google is a mindfulness-based, emotional intelligence program called Search Inside Yourself (there is a great book by the same name, written by Google exec Chade-Meng Tan, which I highly recommend).

or not a person will be profitable over the long term.

Mindfulness was designed to increase mental agility and has been shown in research to do so.

Although not easy, mindfulness training is very simple. We can create the aforementioned shift in perspective simply by mentally noting what we’re doing now. If we’re sitting and waiting, we just silently say in the mind, “Sitting and waiting.” If we’ve done that, we’ve just created space between ourselves and our thoughts/ emotions. The trick is maintaining that perspective! To do that while still, we can simply maintain awareness of our breathing.

To maintain mindfulness during activity, we can simply be curious about what our present moment experience is like, keeping our awareness open to what’s happing now. When we get pulled into our thoughts again, we just mentally note, “Distracted,” and open our awareness once again. Repeat as necessary.

3

MENTAL AGILITY – Mental agility allows us to quickly adapt to a rapidlychanging business environment: an invaluable skill. Also, in cutting edge research in behavioral finance, mental agility has been identified as one of the two most important predictors of whether

Matt Tenney is the author of From the Brig to the Boardroom: Why Mindfulness Is the Ultimate Shortcut to Success. His company donates all after-tax profits to charity. He also co-founded and led two non-profits, and become a certified leadership development consultant with the prestigious Perth Leadership Institute.

HOW TO GET EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT FROM YOUR WORK,

EVERY TIME When I was 20 years old, I went to work at Citigroup for a summer internship. I didn’t really have a clue what I was doing, but I went to the office every day and worked on a basic scenario analysis project.

I knew I could spend my summer just showing up or really, actually try to learn something.

I chose the latter. I went to all the speaker events, every lunch meeting, and all of those happy hours. I had lunch with different co-workers and senior leaders every day. I emailed and followed up with everyone I met.

All that persistence paid off — by summer’s end, I had one-on-one meetings with the CFO of Citigroup, the Chief Diversity Officer of Citigroup and more than 10 Managing Directors. Me! A 20-year-old intern! Some decade-long employees at Citigroup said they’d NEVER talked to that many senior leaders.

At the end of the summer, my Managing Director, Jaidev Iyer, announced “Erica, somehow you’ve been able to get noticed everywhere you go.”

I didn’t realize this was a gift until much later in life. When I was 27 and on stage at the World Economic Forum at Davos 2012, activist Desmond Tutu told our group of 70 Millennial leaders that we can lead a revolution in the world. That’s when it clicked for me.

But this isn’t about me. Its about YOU. It’s about the fact that I’m not the only suburban-born, Indian-American girl who can get noticed. The truth is getting noticed isn’t much about me either. It’s about how I translate my gifts to others.

When we share ourselves in a genuine way, we build real relationships and create ways for others to help us grow.

Here are my top six tips on how to get noticed, get hired, or get just about anything you want: Every time you meet someone, focus on how you can support them first.

Give, give, get is a mantra that has helped me build deeper connections with others.

1 2 3

Be self-aware. Don’t ask for too much of someone at the beginning. Build the relationship and understand where they’re coming from.

Honor yourself and speak with confidence. Be honest about what you are hoping to get out of a conversation, no matter who you’re talking to — whether it’s a C-level exec, a leading expert or a budding entrepreneur. Everyone is busy and wants to have conversations that matter.

4

Don’t shy away from emailing anybody for a meeting. The CFO of Citigroup said yes to a 20-year-old intern (me!). I’m sure if you write a

succinct email and politely ask for what you want, you can talk to just about any anyone.

Believe me, I’ve talked to everyone from Sheryl Sandberg to Bill Gates this year — all because I asked!

Have fun with it. When you do get that meeting, ask informed, thoughtful questions and they will remember you.

Make sure to do your research so you know what to say. And don’t forget to have fun with it. People want to be around those who are doing fun stuff.

5

Start with your story. Every time I have a meeting with a new person, I start by sharing my personal story.

Rather than discussing what I want from someone else or how I’m going to do it, I first share why I’m talking to them and what led me to this point. My story evokes my values and creates a connection with others that builds a real relationship.

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Erica Dhawan is a globally recognized leadership expert, Gen Y keynote speaker, consultant and researcher at Harvard’s Center for Public Leadership. The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) is an invite-only nonprofit organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs.

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Life’s Good

A brief history of South Korea’s 4th largets company, LG The LG Corporation is a South Korean multinational conglomerate corporation. It is the fourth-largest company of its kind in South Korea, following Samsung Group, Hyundai Motors Group and SK group. Its headquarters are situated in the LG Twin Towers building in Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpogu, Seoul. LG makes electronics, chemicals, and telecom products and operates subsidiaries such as LG Electronics, Zenith, LG Display, LG Telecom and LG Chem in over 80 countries.

History

LG Corp. founder Koo In-Hwoi established Lak-Hui Chemical Industrial Corp. in 1947.

In 1952, Lak-Hui (pronounced “Lucky”, currently LG Chem) became the first Korean company to enter the plastic industry. As the company expanded its plastic business, it established Goldstar Co. Ltd. (currently LG Electronics Inc.) in 1958. The LG Group was formed through the merger of two Korean companies, Lucky and GoldStar, from which the abbreviation of LG was derived. The current “Life’s Good” slogan is a backronym.

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Goldstar sold many consumer electronics under its brand. They also produced South Korea’s first radio. While some other household products (not available outside South Korea) were sold under the brand name of Lucky. The Lucky brand was famous for hygiene products such as soaps and HiTi laundry detergents, but the brand was mostly associated with its Lucky and Perioe toothpaste. Even today, LG continues to manufacture some of these products for the South Korean market, such as laundry detergent.

Reorganization

In 1995, to compete better in the Western market, the Lucky-Goldstar Corporation was renamed “LG”, (the abbreviation of “Lucky-Goldstar”). The company also associates the letters LG with the company’s tagline “Life’s Good”. Since 2009, LG has owned the domain name LG.com.

On 1 April 2000, LG Chemical was split into three separate companies, namely LGCI, LG Chem, and LG Household & Health Care. Later, in July 2007, LG Chem merged with LG Petrochemical.

Since 2001, LG has two joint ventures with Royal Philips Electronics: LG Philips Display and LG Philips LCD, but Philips sold off its shares in late 2008. In 2005, LG entered into a joint venture with Nortel Networks, creating LG-Nortel Co. Ltd. On November 30th 2012, comScore released a report of the October 2012 U.S. Mobile Subscriber Market Share that found LG lost its place as second in the U.S mobile market share to Apple Inc. On 20 January 2013, Counterpoint Research announced that LG has overtaken Apple to become second largest smartphone manufacturer in the US. By 2005, LG was a Top 100 global brand, and in 2006, LG recorded a brand growth of 14%. Its display manufacturing affiliate, LG Display, is now the world’s largest plasma panel manufacturer.

Operations

LG Electronics has about 75 subsidiaries worldwide. LG Electronics owns Zenith and controls 37.9 percent of LG Display.

Home Entertainment division The Home Entertainment division offers Plasma TVs, LCD TVs, PDP Modules, OLED Panels, USB Memory, Flat Panel Computer Monitors, Home Theater Systems, Blu-ray Disc players, DVD Recorders, Super Multi DVD Rewriters, CD±RW, Notebook PCs, Desktop PCs, MP3 Players.

The Home Entertainment division merged with the Business Solutions Division in October 2010.

Mobile Communications division The Mobile Communications division provides mobile communication terminals, personal computers and communication devices.

LG mobile devices are made for GSM networks as well as for CDMA networks worldwide. LG phones are available also in unlocked versions that can be used on any GSM network worldwide.

LG sold 116.7 million mobile phones in 2010, corresponding to a market share of 8.4%.

Home Appliances division The Home Appliances division manufactures refrigerators, washing machines, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, compressors, and motors.

Its 2007 sales totaled KRW 11.8 trillion, accounting for 29% of the company’s total revenue. The division’s profit was KRW 717.1 billion. About 35% of the company’s home appliance revenue comes from the North American market.

Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions division The Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions division makes air conditioners and LED lighting.

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MAYDAY MAYDAY! BYE BYE BAHRAIN AIR Bahrain Air was on its way to becoming a force to reckon with in the airlines industry of the region, until the day it shut down. The airline with its low budget offers had become a favorite for passengers over its five years of operation. That came as a shocker to employees and passengers alike. We take a look at its history.

First announcement of Bahrain Air launch hits the national dailies on November 23 2007.

Bahrain Air started accepting bookings on December 16 2007 to coincide with the National Day celebrations

Bahrain Air commenced operations on 3 February 2008.

It launched with an authorized capital of US$26.5 million from a

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combination of Bahraini and Saudi Arabian investors.

On May 26 2008, Cochin, India became Bahrain Air’s ninth destination as well as its first destination in India.

The inaugural flight was from Bahrain to Dubai. It was an airbus A320.

On March 31 2008, it started flying to Alexandria, Egypt, which was its first North African destination.

On June 11 2008, they launched services to Jeddah, which was Bahrain Air’s tenth destination.

In May 2008, Bahrain Air board of Directors agreed to set up a company with a capital of $ 50million to acquire and lease aircrafts.

In June 2008, they launched flights to Aleppo.

In August 2008, Bahrain Air has signed a commercial agreement with Saudi short-haul

carrier Sama Airlines owners Sama Lel Tayaran.

In October 2008, they launched daily flights to Kuwait.

In October 2008, they launched services to Dhaka, Bangladesh.

By the end of the first year of operations, around 404,000 passengers had been carried.

On 16 March 2009, Bahrain Air received its

new Airbus A319 bringing the fleet to four aircraft. It arrived at Bahrain International Airport from Abu Dhabi, under the command of Bahrain Air managing director Captain Ibrahim Al Hamer and operations director Captain Ahmed Yaqubi.

In April 2009, Kozhikode became its second destination in India.

On September 11 2009, they flew to Iraq for the first time.

In April 2010, Bahrain Air has appointed Richard Nuttall as its new director of commercial operations.

In June 2010, Bahrain Air announced that it was no longer a low cost carrier (LCC) and was in the process of positioning itself as a ‘value for money’ airline.

In April 2011, Gulf Aviation Academy (GAA), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, signed a training agreement with Bahrain Air.

In October 2011, they announced an innovative marketing campaign by conducting on-board raffle draws on all its flights for November and December, the two month holiday period.

In December 2011, Richard Nutall was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer.

On 3rd March 2012, Bahrain Air officially inaugurated its new sales outlet at LuLu Hypermarket in Hidd.

It is the airline’s sixth sales outlet in Bahrain.

On July 1 2011, they added another destination to its route map when its inaugural flight landed in Istanbul.

"Bahrain Air's inauguaral flight was to Dubai, on 3 Feb 2008."

In August 2011, they announced plans to launch new services, increase frequencies, reintroduce routes and launch major recruitment drive.

Also in August 2011, the airline also announced its first-ever interline agreement with Mihin Lanka, and said more such partnerships to increase its reach and market share was on its immediate agenda.

In May 2012, there were reports that that Bahrain Air also had an outstanding fuel bill of $20m.

In late 2012, there were rumors of a merger with Gulf Air.

In October 2012, Bahrain Air has announced the implementation of web-based Google Apps suite of services. This enabled Bahrain Air staff stationed around the world to

access an array of Google services including email, shared documents, sites and calendar, to collaborate in real time.

In November 2012, Bahrain Air signed BMI Bank s the exclusive financial adviser and arranger for Bahrain Air for the airline’s proposed capital increase.

Due to some outstanding debts and taxes which have been pending since the about six months, the Kingdom’s transportation ministry has not approved many routes in the carrier’s winter schedule.

Revenues for January 2013 were 46% higher than the revenues of January 2012.

In early February this year, there were reports that the flight might be grounded at the end of March 2013 as their Air Operators Certificate issued by the Civil Aviation Authority was expiring.

The airline tweeted about its latest promotions just three hours prior to the announcement.

Bahrain Air ceased operations on 12 February 2013.

Q The inflight magazine was called Reesha Q It flew to a total of 23 destinations.

Q It had an employee strength of about 300.

Q CEO: Richard Nuttal; Managing Director: Ibrahim Al Hamer Q Its slogan was "Always the smartest choice."

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Korean We hit Dubai to test Hyundai’s Luxury Ultimate

2012 was when we last tested the Hyundai’s Centennial, and here we are again in Dubai sampling something that’s once again new and much more improved. To be honest, we thought the last goaround was pretty darn good, but the research and development team in Seoul are hell-bent on frequent upgrades, which explains why there’s a bigger engine under the hood. That’s definitely something we don’t normally see in the modern premium segment, but then again Hyundai has found considerable success paving its own path. All we can say is that, the Koreans have once again taken the crown with their all new Centennial!

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EXTERIOR, INTERIOR & GOODIES

The first thing that you notice about the all new 2014 Centennial is that it comes along with subtle design upgrades to the exterior and interior. Look closely and you’ll realize that the Centennial has been designed to provide a much more refined look on the outside, combined with an even more premium feel to the cabin. The exterior comes with lesser chrome trim and customers can now choose between vertical or horizontal type frontal grilles. The rear LED lighting clusters have been revised, while Hyundai offers its clients new, bespoke 18 or 19 inch rims.

With its flowing lines and commanding front end look, the vehicle certainly makes a bold statement on the 64

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streets of UAE. Being a large luxury sedan, its presence is helped by its striking dimensions – the new model is 5,160mm long, 1,890mm wide and 1,495mm high.

Not only that, but customers can now choose from six elegant colors, including a new addition that goes by the name of “Cona Black”.

Hop into the driver’s seat and you’re greeted by an interior that’s equally modern and stylish. The all new redesigned dashboard not only features high quality trim, but it also gives you easy access to all driver controls.

The other new features include a premium clock (that was designed by Innes & Lister Inc.), a center console that’s much cleaner thanks to the new Shift by Wire gear lever, a card type Smart Key and the choice of wood grain trims for that plush interior.

Technical SpecificaƟons

Engine 5.0L V8 3.8L V6 Horsepower 430bhp @ 6,400rpm 334bhp @ 6,400rpm Torque 495.2nm @ 5,000rpm 395.2nm @ 5,100rpm 0 – 100kph 5.8seconds 6.9seconds Top Speed for both engine opƟons 240kph Transmission Eight Speed AutomaƟc

Customers can now choose from three rear seats, or two rear seats. The new centre console at the rear contains a cool box big enough to fit refreshments for the journey, cupholders and an improved Driver Information System (DIS) that places a number of controls at the rear passengers’ fingertips, from changing the temperature to the position of their seat. For an added touch of opulence there are electric curtains for the side windows and rear screen (passengers in the rear even get the added bonus of having dual 9.2inch LCD rear monitor entertainment screens).

Another key element of the premium experience offered by the New 2014 Centennial is the ride comfort. The suspension has been enhanced to provide the optimum ride for rear seat

passengers. The Amplitude Selective Damper has been tuned, as have the springs, shock absorbers and step bar, all of which ensures less driving shock, better riding comfort and more balance on rough roads. Even the electronically-controlled multi-link suspension has been fine-tuned, in order to give Centennial owners a smooth comfy ride. Hyundai also offers its clients with the option of air-suspension (which is available on this all new 2014 Centennial), improved tire wheel rigidity, redesigned wing mirrors that reduce noise and much quieter engines.

ENGINE, RIDE & SAFETY

Out and about on the streets of Dubai the Centennial felt like a super luxurious barge.

It was not just comfy but also powerful at the same time.

This 2014 beast comes with two engine options- a 5.0L V8 (that produces around 430bhp @ 6,400rpm and maximum torque of 495.2nm @ 5,000rpm) and a 3.8L Lambda V6 (that produces around 334bhp @ 6,400rpm and maximum torque of 395.2nm @ 5,100rpm).

The 5.0L powerplant hits the 0-100kph mark in just 5.8seconds, giving you a top speed of 240kph. Whereas the 3.8L Lambda V6 does the 0-100kph run in just 6.9seconds, giving you a top speed of 240kph. Both engines are mated to an eight speed automatic transmission with a lock-up torque converter, ensuring a relaxed ride at all times.

While cruising around town, the first thing you notice is the silence and at idle, it’s about as quiet as a hybrid with the engine shut off. The

“Out and about on the streets of Dubai the Centennial felt like a super luxurious barge. It was not just comfy but also powerful at the same time.”

Centennial’s all new 5.0-liter V8 that’s mated to a new 8-speed transmission provides ample power for weaving in and out of traffic. Even the shifts are made in keeping with the Centennial’s quest for refinement, and the avoidance of shift-shock is a big priority.

If you need more response, the selector can be slipped over into the manual slot and puts command back at the driver’s right hand. With multi-link suspension all around, the big Hyundai’s chassis handles accurately, abetted by the Continental air-struts and the Sachs electronically controlled damping system. Among the cutting-edge technologies that Hyundai has introduced to its flagship model for the first time are Heads-Up Display, Blind Spot Detection system, Shift by Wire, Haptic Steering Wheel and an all around view monitor. The standard shift by wire system operates using electrical signals, offering more convenience and reducing the risk of errors; while the Haptic Steering Wheel features a control that provides a smartphone touchscreen-style user experience. The other safety features include nine airbags, including two front, four side and two side curtain airbags, as well as a knee airbag.

SUMMARY

With its attractive styling and smooth-as-silk handling, the all new 2014 Centennial is a solid contender in the luxury sedan segment. So if you’re out on the hunt for a luxury vehicle that’s big, comfy and cost you and arm and a leg then this is definitely what you’ve been waiting for.

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TOP 10 CONVERTIBLES Our very own topless showdown.

What could be better than letting the wind stream through your hair as your convertible roars down the Durrat Al Bahrain highway? Compared to when they first came off the assembly line, today’s topless monstrosities are flashier, quicker and much more capable of handling unpredictable weather. From the super luxurious to the sporty exotics, drop-tops take everyday driving to a whole new level of enjoyment. Check out our list in order to get better acquainted with some of the best convertibles in the Kingdom today.

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC CONVERTIBLE

It features a luxurious handcra ed interior with a large variety of custom trim op ons, including aluminum and numerous types of wood veneers. A V8 trim joins the W12 trim for 2013 and is dis nguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley badge, a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by dis nc ve body-colored strakes, and unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes. You get two engine op ons, a twin turbocharged 6.0L W12 (that produces around 567bhp) and a twin turbocharged 6.0L V8 (that makes around 500bhp).

The standard all-wheel-drive system’s power split has a 40:60 rear bias for a spor ng feel in terms of handling and mid-corner accelera on.

ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPE

Combining compelling drivability with excep onal engineering, technology and design. The exterior was inspired by racing yachts of the 1930s and for 2013 you get re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures that frame adap ve full-LED light clusters. A new single piece grille surround presents a smoother, more contemporary front end and a front, rear and top-view camera system, with cameras posi oned in five loca ons is standard. The interior now comes with a redesigned seat trim, a stylish new chrome controller, and a larger monitor screen. Under the hood lies a 6.75-liter direct-injected V-12 engine that’s mated to an 8-speed automa c gearbox (producing around 453bhp and 531 pounds-feet of torque).

FERRARI 458 SPIDER

The 458 Spider is the hard-top conver ble version of Ferrari’s two-seat, mid-rear engine exo c sport coupe, the 458 Italia. Its retractable aluminum hard-top flips over to stow neatly upside-down beneath the rear deck lid, allowing occupants to be er hear the incredible scream of the 458’s high-revving V8. The 570bhp directinjected 4.5L V8 sends its power through a 7-speed dual clutch transmission with F1-style shi paddles. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic material discs as standard. Magne c fluid-filled shock absorbers react instantly to road condi ons and driver inputs. A switch on the steering wheel, called a mane no allows the driver to choose the op mum se ng for current condi ons.

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LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR ROADSTER

The Aventador LP700-4 replaces the Murcielago as Lamborghini’s flagship. Its brutal power, lightweight materials, sophis cated engineering and handling precision are combined with fighter aircra -inspired design and the finest equipment to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. Its powered by a 691bhp 6.5L V12 that’s mated to a 7-speed automated manual with super-fast shi ing ISR (Independent Shi ing Rods). Signature Lamborghini features include upwardopening doors and electronically-managed air intakes that open depending on the outdoor temperature and the need for cooling air.

PORSCHE 911 CABRIOLET

The Porsche 911 remains the iconic symbol of a sports car. It is available as either a coupe or a cabriolet, in rear-wheel drive as a Carrera model, or in all-wheel drive as a Turbo model. The 991-genera on 911 Carrera is powered by a 350bhp direct-injec on 3.4L flat six-cylinder, and the Carrera S is powered by a 400bhp direct-injec on 3.8L flat six-cylinder engine. The Turbo is a 500bhp version of the 3.8L (530-hp in the Turbo S). Transmission choices are a six-speed manual for the Turbo, a seven-speed manual for the Carrera and Carrera S, or an op onal seven-speed dual-clutch known as PDK is available for all models.

AUDI R8 SPYDER

The R8 is the Audi’s first mid-engine super car. The R8 is loosely based off of the Lamborghini Gallardo pla orm, and is powered by either a 420bhp 4.2L V8 engine borrowed from the RS4, or the 5.2L V10 borrowed from the Gallardo, making 525bhp. Both engines are available in either coupe or conver ble (Spyder) form. A full- me qua ro all-wheel drive system puts that power to the ground and a choice between either a 6speed manual transmission or an R-tronic automated sequen al manual transmission give the driver full control.

MASERATI GRANCABRIO SPORT

MERCEDES-BENZ SLS AMG ROADSTER

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT is the modern interpreta on of the classic 300SL from the ‘50s. The SLS is available as a coupe or conver ble so -top. A naturally-aspirated 583hp 6.2L V8 sends power to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted AMG SPEEDSHIFT seven-speed automa c transaxle. Standard features include an AMG adap ve performance suspension, 19-inch front/20-inch rear forged AMG wheels, Bi-Xenon high-intensity headlights, sport seats with leather and Alcantara trim, dual-zone automa c climate control, satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless connec vity and piano black interior trim.

The 2013 GranTurismo is a four-passenger Italian grand touring exo c, available as a coupe and a conver ble. The conver ble is available in two trims, base and Sport. The Sport conver ble’s 4.7L V8 puts out 444bhp and the base conver ble’s 4.7L V8 produces 433bhp. An electronically-controlled Skyhook suspension automa cally adjusts to the condi ons of the road. The Sport conver ble features a modified Skyhook sport suspension, 20-inch alloy wheels, slo ed brake discs, a revised exhaust system, and black headlight assembly. A wide variety of alloy wheels, brake caliper colors, and leather and wood trims are available on all trims.

JAGUAR XKR-S CONVERTIBLE

CHEVROLET CORVETTE 427 CONVERTIBLE

The XK combines Jaguar’s new modern design style with tradi onal luxury car touches like genuine wood and supple leather. Available as a coupe or conver ble, the XK packs a 385bhp 5.0L V8 engine. The XKR features a 510bhp 5.0L supercharged V8. A special-order only, XKR-S uses a 550bhp 5.0L supercharged V8. A six-speed automa c transmission with console mounted rotary shi er and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shi er channels all that power to the rear wheels. The XKR-S adds forged wheels, aerodynamic enhancements, and race inspired seats.

The Ve e delivers supercar performance for the price of a midsize luxury sedan.

For 2013 the Corve e adds special 60th Anniversary Edi ons for all models and a 427 Conver ble Collector Edi on with Z06 components. The vehicle is available as a targa-roof coupe, conver ble, or the high-performance Z06 and ZR1 hardtop coupes. The conver ble comes with a 430bhp LS3 6.2L V8 engine and six-speed manual transmission. An op onal dual-mode exhaust increases horsepower to 436bhp. The Z06 comes with a 505bhp LS7 7.0L V8 engine, a six-speed manual transmission, sport handling suspension, and bigger wheels and res. All manual transmissions include launch control.

MARCH / APRIL 2013

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FASHION

THE LAT A EST AND TRENDIEST WAY TO DRESSING UP BIG brings to you the latest fashion from the top brands in the fashion world. v

Lovely in Leather Tod’s

Beautifully crafted, this zip around continental wallet in natural leather from Tod’s reveals floral perforations for a refreshing spring summer silhouette. Multiple internal cash sleeves, card slots and pockets guarantee organizational ease. tods.com

London Triple Document Satchel Alfred Dunhill

This triple document is a traditionally styled satchel, handmade in London by our highly skilled craftsmen.Inside there are three compartments, three pen loops and one phone packet. In keeping with traditional English satchels, this piece is unlined, allowing for a beautiful patina to develop on the leather. dunhill.com

One Button Suit Emporio Armani

A gorgeous Armani one button suit in cool wool, solid color, dual back vents, multipockets, three internal jacket pockets, lined, lapel collar, mid rise, and straight leg. armani.com

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

Bold & Beautiful H&M

Short metallic necklace with decorative rhinestones in various colours. hm.com

Intricately Elegant Roberto Coin

The Apassionata collection is about sinuous waves, winding coils made of thousands of precious threads interlaced in a checkerboard pattern.

A classic jewel forever. robertocoin.com

Pretty in Prints Wallis

This lovely petite blouse has this season’s hottest paisley print. Team with your favorite jeans for the perfect weekend outfit! With long sleeves and small ties at the front. wallis.co.uk

Cufflinks With Chevrons Lines Décor Cartier

A cufflink collection by Cartier.

Cufflinks with chevrons lines décor, sterling silver with palladium finish. cartier.us

MARCH / APRIL 2013

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SS 13’ WOMAN

Look elegant and glamorous with the latest designs and styles from Massimo Dutti’s Spring Summer 2013 Collection.

Spring is the season when the good weather begins. Dark and dull colors leave us, giving way to light and intense ones.

Elements of nature become the collection protagonists, creating a symbiosis between our garments and their surrounding environment From earth and cocoa tones to stone and shades of grey with blue, red, pink and sea green for a touch of color.

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MARCH MA M ARCH C / APRIL 2013

SS 13’ MEN Sophistication, Quality, and Traditions are adjectives which describe this season spring-summer collection. Nature returns as an essential source of inspiration. Neutral tones are still in, giving way to a very enriching tandem of colours such as grey with pink, green with mauve together with navy blue, creating an exquiste collection.

MARCH / APRIL 2013

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LIFESTYLE

STUFF WE LIKE Check out the latest gadgets and a host of other items for executives on a break or having some family time ÊBENTLEY’S FIRST LUXURY FRAGRANCE

Bentley Motors have launched their first luxury fragrance collection, the ‘Bentley for Men’ and the ‘Bentley for Men Intense’. Interestingly, the fragrance range which captures the ‘essence’ of their powerful supercars also brings together the master French crystal maker Lalique and the iconic British car company for the creation of the first limited edition crystal flacon for Bentley, the ‘Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition’.

bentleycollection.com

‚VERTU

TI SMARTPHONE

With virtually scratchproof sapphire crystal screen for flawless optical quality, lightweight titanium casing for strength without compromise, and symphonic sound tuned in collaboration with Bang & Olufsen and with musical punctuation from the London Symphony Orchestra, here’s the brand-new Vertu Ti: handmade in England and powered by Android.

vertu.com

·DOETTLING’S

LUXURY SAFE ‘THE FORTRESS’

The bespoke German luxury safe manufacturer Doettling has now created the world’s safest luxury safe, the Fortress. Defined to be the master of all security classes, the Doettling Fortress comes upholstered by hand with its signature quilted calfskin; and not only that, but it also introduces us to the new era of security.

doettling.com

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

‚LONDON

CUT GOLD HAND-ROLLED CIGAR

The Black Tie, Gold Hand-Rolled Cigar that you see here smokes perfectly and ashes gold. It actually lets you experience the magic of smoking a fine Dominican cigar with a Connecticut shade wrapper, which is then meticulously rolled in 24K edible gold.

londoncutcigars.com

‰‘TANK

CASE’ FOR YOUR IPAD

Andrea Ponti has created a functional and minimal, light, pressure resistant, shock absorbing, pleasant to touch, and aesthetically compatible case for iPads, the Tank Case. Described to be an aluminum case that enhances the mechanical features to provide its users with portability, ultra-protection, and extreme functionality, it weighs just 275g.

andreaponti.com

ÂSONOS

ÊASTON

PLAYBAR

Dedicated to reinvent home audio for the digital age, Sonos the leading manufacturer of wireless audio systems has now brought its wireless HiFi approach to home theater with the launch of ‘Playbar’, the soundbar for all music lovers.

Especially designed to bring immersive highfidelity sound to the TV, the Playbar being a full wireless high-fidelity system, streams all of the music via single player.

MARTIN PRAM

sonos.com

Silver Cross which also invented the modern day baby carriage has now joined forces with the iconic British luxury sports car marque Aston Martin to come up with ultra-luxurious pram, the Silver Cross Surf – Aston Martin Edition. Issued in a strictly limited-edition of just 800 pieces and the 7.5kg high-specification.

It boasts leather-trimmed handle, air-ride suspension, aluminum-alloy wheels based on the wheels of the One-77.

astonmartin.com

‡BENTLEY

LIGHT BODY MIDNIGHT CARBON WATCH

Together for 10 years now, both Bentley and Breitling have decided to celebrate this partnership by launching the Bentley Light Body Midnight Carbon Watch. It impressively embodies the perfect combination of technique and aesthetics, and it has been designed to appeal to connoisseurs with a love of exceptional horological creations.

breitling.com

MARCH / APRIL 2013

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Appointments The

We keep track of promotions as people in the Gulf move up in the world

page

Alba

Gulf Finance Corporation

Shuaa Capital

BAHRAIN - Alba has announced the appointment of Shawqi Al Hashimi as the new line 6 smelter project director. He began his career with Alba as an electrical technician in 1982 and was involved in the line 5-expansion project as project manager in the carbon area.

DUBAI - Gulf Finance Corporation announced the appointment of Jonathan Swann as the Chief Financial Officer. Swann joins from JP Morgan where he worked from 2006 to 2013, initially as a senior financial officer for Dubai, then for the wider Mena region. He is a qualified accountant (ACA) having trained with PWC in London.

DUBAI - Shuaa Capital, a leading financial services company in Dubai, has named Dr Sabah AlBinali as the Group’s new chief investment officer and the first chief executive officer of Shuaa’s Credit Division. Dr Al-Binali, who joined Shuaa last year as vice chairman of its UAE-based subsidiary Gulf Finance Corporation, also serves as chairman of the recently established Gulf Installments Company in Saudi Arabia.

Gulf Hotels Group BAHRAIN - Gulf Hotels Group has reappointed Garfield Jones as deputy chief executive officer.

Mr. Jones rejoined the group after nine months.

He has more than 30 years of experience in the industry.

Bahrain International Trade Chamber BAHRAIN - The Lawyers’ Panel in the Bahrain International Trade Chamber unanimously appointed its vice chairman, Mr. Rashid Abdulrahman Ibrahim, as its new Chairman and Mr. Kabi Samir Al-Hakeem as its Deputy Chairman.

The K Hotel BAHRAIN - The K Hotel has announced the appointment of Bilal Ahmed as their PR Manager. He has been associated with the Avari Hotels, Pakistan prior to his arrival in Bahrain. He has over 13 years of experience in the hospitality field.

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

National Bank of Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), a leading bank in the UAE, has appointed Faisal Ahmad to the newly created position of head of investment advisory for private banking UAE. Ahmad has extensive experience in global investments gained from serving in financial institutions in the UK and the UAE, a statement from the bank said. He joined NBAD after serving as the head of investment advisory at Societe Generale private banking Middle East and Africa. Overall, Ahmad has over 15 years of financial markets experience.

Barclays QATAR - Barclays has appointed Dr Jongghun Lee as managing director of its Barclays Natural Resource Investments (BNRI) in Qatar. Dr Lee, who also serves on the BNRI Investment Committee, is responsible for identifying global investment opportunities for BNRI across various industries ranging from steel and metals to utility, oil and gas.

Gulf Finance Corporation DUBAI - Gulf Finance Corporation announced the appointment of Chris Waring as the Chief Operating Officer for the Group and joins from Barclays in London where he was COO for Corporate Banking Risk having held senior management roles within the bank.

Memac Ogilvy BEIRUT - Memac Ogilvy Public Relations, the Mena division of leading global communications firm Memac Ogilvy & Mather, as appointed Ema Linaker as the new head of its regional consumer & social practice. She brings more than fifteen years of experience in communications and public relations on both national and international stages.

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the

HOTEL guide YOUR GUIDE TO THE KINGDOM’S HOTEL OUTLETS

DINING SHERATON HOTEL BAHRAIN Al Safir Restaurant Gastronomical buffets for breakfast lunch and dinner as well as superb á la carte options.

Opening Hours: Thursday - Saturday 12:30PM to 3:00PM Every night except Sunday: 8:00PM to 11:00PM Fiamma is closed on Sundays

Saraya: All Day Dining / International Exquisite buffets with flavors from across the world. Available is breakfast, lunch and dinner and also a la carte and live cooking station.

Soie Chinese Restaurant

Wok: South East Asian Restaurant

Golestan Restaurant Discovery of traditional Iranian dishes with freshly oven-baked breads served at the table.

Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:45 PM Dinner 7:30 p.m. – 11:30 PM Friday: Lunch 12:30 PM – 3:45 PM Dinner 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM Closed on Saturdays

Espressamente Illy A perfect place to meet and enjoy a cup of espresso, refreshing beverages and light snacks.

Opening Hours: Daily: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM For Information & Reservations Al Safir: +973 17533533 ext 259 Soie Chinese Restaurant: +973 17 533 533 ext. 497 Golestan Restaurant: +973 17 533 533 ext. 375

MARCH / APRIL 2013

Designed with an indoor and an outdoor seating area, this outlet will serve authentic Italian food.

Opening Times: Daily 6:30AM to 10:30 AM (11AM on weekends) Lunch: 12:30PM to 3:30PM Dinner: 7:00PM to 10:30PM

Opening Hours: Daily: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM Closed on Fridays

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Fiamma: Italian Restaurant

Opening Hours: Breakfast 6:30 AM -10:30 AM Lunch 12:30 PM – 3.30 PM Dinner 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM Relax in the dramatic ambience with dark wood floors, oriental ornaments and lanterns.

La Med, Ritz Carlton

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

Espressamente Illy: +973 17 533 533 ext. 1790

The perfect combination of stones and wood in the décor to reflect an Asian feeling is defiantly there.

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 7:00PM to 11:00PM Wok is closed on Tuesdays

Tapas: Restaurant It services a wide range of exciting tapas, and the best cocktails on the island. Tapas bar has a truly vibrant and lively atmosphere with its Cuban band.

Opening Hours: Daily: 11:30AM to Midnight

La Mer: Seafood Restaurant It is the signature restaurant of the hotel, guests will enjoy the freshest seafood and catch of the day cooked at the live cooking station with a French savoir-faire to please all tastes.

Opening Hours: Daily: 7:00PM to 11:00PM

Pashawat: Arabic Restaurant It is open in the evenings and offers a delightful Lebanese cuisine. Guests will enjoy large varieties of Mezzah as well as delicious charcoal grilled specialties.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:00PM to 1:30 AM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays) For Information & Reservations Hotel: +973 1763 6363 Concierge: +973 39349659

China Garden The restaurant, which is designed in a modern oriental style, offers a varied selection of food influenced by distinct Chinese regions creating Cantonese, Szechuan and Peking specialties.

Klouds Restaurant, The K Hotel

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday Lunch 12:00pm to 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm to 11:00pm Closed on Sunday

Klouds Enjoy an assortment of culinary delights with their special Themed Nights everyday of the week.

Opening Hours: Daily: 7PM to 11PM

Friday Brunch Discover The K difference in Friday Brunch!

Plums The specialty being premium beef and fresh, top quality seafood, it provides guests with the ultimate in dining pleasure.

Opening Hours: Dinner: 7 PM to 11:30PM

Primavera Primavera, the ever popular Italian restaurant offers a very exciting menu.

Opening Hours: Friday, 12:30PM to 4:30PM

Opening Hours: Lunch: Noon to 3PM Dinner: 7PM to Midnight

The K lounge

Nirvana

Some new dishes include the world famous Angus steaks and exceptional desserts with that extra K flavor.

Our ongoing promotions include: Daily Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm Coors Light & Burger Treats Ladies Night from Saturday to Wednesday all cocktails free of charge for Ladies.

Nirvana brings royal flavors to The Ritz-Carlton for a dining adventure rarely enjoyed outside of India.

Opening Hours: Daily: 11AM to 2AM

The Ritz-Carlton has a dedicated cigar lounge with a cellar of premium malts, cognacs and vintage wines.

Kenza Lounge

Opening Hours: Daily: Noon to 2AM

Outdoor seating and Arabesque interiors, experience the finest Lebanese dining.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 7PM to 2AM For Information & Reservations

K Hotel: (973) 1736 0000 Klouds: (973) 1736 0000 ext. 4019 K Pool: (973) 1736 0000 or email banquet@thekhotel.com

THE RITZ‐CARLTON, BAHRAIN HOTEL & SPA Overlook Café The perfect place to relax by the water and enjoy a variety of light lunch items, refreshments, beverages and cocktails with a tropical flair.

Opening Hours: Daily: 10 AM to 6 PM

La Med Casual dining in generous surroundings is brightened with natural sunshine and views of the turquoise blue waters of the Gulf.

Opening Hours: Continental and Arabic Breakfast: 7AM to 10:30AM Lunch Buffet: Noon to 3:30PM Lunch Express: Noon to 3:30PM All Day Dining Menu: 3:30PM Dinner: 7PM to 11:30PM Friday Brunch: 12:30 PM to 4PM

Opening Hours: Lunch Noon to 3PM Dinner 7PM to 11:30PM

Burlington Club

The Lobby Lounge The traditional high tea is served daily in the Lobby Lounge and boasts all the luxurious delicacies that you would expect.

Opening Hours: Daily: 8AM to Midnight

The Ritz Gourmet Lounge Experience authentic chic ambience like in a Parisian along with homemade pastries and richly decorated desserts.

It is favored by Japanese Embassy staff who are said to love its peaceful Zen-like surroundings and exquisite features, including teppanyaki rooms and an authentic robatayaki grill and a Sushi bar with a smoking section.

Opening Hours: Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Takht Jamsheed Fusions

THE K HOTEL

Sato

Fusions is a contemporary and stylish rooftop restaurant boasting unrivalled views over the hotel’s tropical gardens and Manama skyline.

Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday 6pm – 12am Closed on Saturday

La Pergola Renowned for being one of Bahrain’s oldest Italian eateries, the intimate restaurant offers a fantastic Mediterranean ambience with a vaulted roof and striking wall murals depicting scenes of ancient Rome.

Opening Hours: Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Margarita Mexicana All dishes, including tortillas and guacamole, are freshly prepared at guests’ tables to guarantee that the menu and fine dining experience are as authentic as possible.

Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday 6:00pm – 12:00am Closed on Saturdays

Royal Thai The restaurant is situated in a grand pagoda in the grounds of the hotel’s tropical gardens and provides scenic views overlooking the turquoise waters of the outdoor swimming pool.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm Closed on Mondays

Taking inspiration from Persia’s royal palace of Takht Jamsheed, the Gulf Hotel’s chic restaurant offers a fine dining experience fit for a king.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm Closed on Mondays

Zahle The menu boasts an extensive selection of hot and cold mezze, grilled meat and regional Lebanese fare, such as beautifully presented shish kebab served in a golden box atop warm Arabic bread and burning coals.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday Weekdays: 7:00pm – 1:00am Weekends: 7:00pm – 2:00am Saturday Lunch 12:00pm -3:00pm Dinner 7:00pm – 2:00am For Reservations

Al Waha: +973 1774 6425/26 China Garden: +973 1774 6423/24 Fusions: +973 1771 3000 La Pergola: +973 1774 6419/20 Margarita Mexicana: +973 1774 6462 Royal Thai: +973 1774 6421/22 Sato: +973 1774 6429/30 Takht Jamsheed: +973 1774 6431/32 Zahle: +973 1774 6417/18

Golestan, Sheraton Hotel Bahrain

Opening Hours: Daily: 7AM to Midnight For Information & Reservations Hotel: +973 1758 0000

GULF HOTEL Al Waha Diners are spoilt for choice with an extensive array of buffet fare featuring local and international dishes, as well as an impressive variety of Bahraini hummus.

Opening Hours: Breakfast 6:00am – 10:30am Lunch 12:00pm – 3:30pm Dinner 7:00pm – 11:00pm Friday Brunch: 12:30pm - 4:00pm MARCH / APRIL 2013

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Golestan, Sheraton Hotel Bahrain

KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL

Opening hours: Daily: 7:00pm - 12:00am

T-spoon

Mediterranean Grill buffet restaurant serving a variety of Mediterranean and international foods.

Conveniently located on the ground floor of Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre with direct access from the mall, bringing flavours that will delight your sweet tooth.

Opening Hours: Daily: 9:00am – 11:00 pm

Mezzanine Lounge The comfortable lounge setting features a media wall with 11 mounted screens; complemented by a collection of innovative food design of tasty salads and platters.

Opening Hours: Daily: 11:00am - 1:00am

Zytoun

Opening hours: Daily: 6:30am - 11:00pm For Reservations

Hotel: +973 1729 8008

AL SAFIR HOTEL Yalla Yalla

Nasmat - Lounge & Restaurant

In place of Savoy Café, Yalla Yalla offers lunch and dinner bufftets as well as an ala carte menu.

The al fresco poolside Mediterranean ambiance offers a haven in which to escape and unwind from Manama’s buzz throughout the day.

Bennigan’s

Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Saveur Contemporary international cuisine and luxurious ambience ensure its place as Manama’s restaurant of choice for special occasions.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday Breakfast 6:30am - 11:00am Lunch 12:30pm - 3:30pm Dinner 7:00pm - 10:30pm

Opening Hours: Daily: 6:30AM-Midnight Enjoy tasty food and spirited conversation.

Opening Hours: Daily: 6AM-2AM

Cucina Italiana The place where Italian Food is served with style and passion.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:00AM - 1:00AM

Baharat Experience Arabian fine dining that promises to deliver a new, exceptional culinary adventure for the whole family.

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday 7:00pm - 01:00am

All restaurants: +973 1717 1000

SHOPPING SHERATON HOTEL BAHRAIN Alhilal Bookshop

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Silk’s restaurant Experience fine dining and sample creative menus prepared by seasoned and culinary experts. The unique show-kitchen/live-cooking concept provides an exciting and lively setting.

Opening Hours: Daily: Breakfast 9:00am - 10.30 am Lunch 10:00am – 4:00pm Dinner 5:00pm – 12:00am For Reservations

Silk’s restaurant: +973 17460017

Opening Hours: Daily: 9AM to 9PM For Information

Alhilal Bookshop: +973 17 531 665

THE RITZ‐CARLTON, BAHRAIN HOTEL & SPA Chopard Boutique Opening hours: Daily: 7AM to Midnight

Mohd Sharif Hatam & Sons

NOVOTEL AL DANA RESORT La Perle Enjoy a delicious range of culinary specialties with an extensive selection of appetizers, salads and desserts to complement your choices Seafood and fishes.

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MARCH / APRIL 2013

Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 10AM to 2PM – 4PM to 8PM For Information

Chopard Boutique: +973 17 580 667 Mohd Sharif Hatam & Sons: +973 17 580 889

SPA & SALON SHERATON HOTEL BAHRAIN

KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL Pure Spa Opening Hours: Daily: 11:00 am to 8:00 pm

Image Spa & Leisure Opening Hours: Daily: 6Am to 10PM

For Information & Reservations +973 1717 1122

Sheraton Health Club Opening Hours: Daily: 7AM to 10PM

Sheraton Fitness Opening Hours: Daily: 9AM to 8:30PM For Information

Image Spa & Leisure: +973 17 524 570 Sheraton Fitness: +973 17 524 570 Sheraton Health Club: +973 17 533 533

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

THE RITZ‐CARLTON, BAHRAIN HOTEL & SPA Elie & Jean Beauty Center Gents Saloon Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 9:30AM to 8PM Friday: 10AM to 7PM

Sports Club & Spa (Membership only) Opening hours: Daily: 5:00AM to 10:30PM For Information

Elie & Jean Beauty Center - Gents Saloon: +973 17 580 798

Thalassotherapy (Call for Appointment) For Information & Reservations Hotel: +973 1763 6363 Concierge: +973 39349659

THE RITZ‐CARLTON, BAHRAIN HOTEL & SPA Elie & Jean Beauty Center Gents Saloon Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 9:30AM to 8PM Friday: 10AM to 7PM

Sports Club & Spa (Membership only) Opening hours: Daily: 5:00AM to 10:30PM

Elie & Jean Beauty Center - Gents Saloon: +973 17 580 798

AL SAFIR HOTEL Ann Beauty Salon Come in and relax to soothing music as our therapists provide the perfect treatment.

For Information & Reservations Al Safir Hotel & Tower: +973 1782 7999 Email: alsafirh@batelco.com.bh Bennigan’s: +973 1781 3750 Website: bennigans.com.bh Cucina Italiana: +973 1700 1317 Website: cucinaitaliana.com.bh

THE K HOTEL The K lounge Opening Hours: Daily: 11AM to 2AM

Champions Sports Lounge Opening Hours: Daily: 11AM to 2AM For Information

K Hotel: (973) 1736 0000

GULF HOTEL Sherlock Holmes Opening Hours: Daily: 12:00pm – 2:00am

Typhoon Bar and Lounge Opening Hours: Daily: 5:00pm – 1:00am Happy Hour: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Vintage Wine Bar Opening Hours: Daily: 5:00pm – 1:00am

For Reservations

Pure Spa, Kempinski

K Hotel: (973) 1736 0000 Sherlock Holmes: +973 1771 2450 Typhoon Bar and Lounge: +973 17 746 395 Vintage Wine Bar: +973 1774 6461

K Lounge, The K Hotel

NIGHTLIFE SHERATON HOTEL BAHRAIN An Nada Lounge Opening Hours: Happy Hour: 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm Daily 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM For Information

An Nada Lounge: +973 17 533 533 ext. 293

KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL Boudoir Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:00pm - 2:00am

Bizarre Lounge Opening Hours: Daily: 9:00pm - 2:00am For Information & Reservations Hotel: (973) 1717 1000

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

NOVOTEL AL DANA RESORT

Amber Bar

Le Bellevue

Lagoon Pool Bar

A relaxed yet elegant bar offering one of the most stunning views of the sea and city skyline. Light live music in the evenings.

Opening Hours: Daily: 8AM to 8PM

Opening hours: Daily: 4:00pm - 2:00am

Lobby Lounge Bar

Pool Bar

Opening Hours: Daily: 8AM to Midnight

Tapas: BAR

Pool bar is open on weekends during December- February and every day from March 1 until November. (Closed during Ramadan).

Opening Hours: Daily: 11:30AM to Midnight

Opening hours: Daily: 9:00am -8:00pm

Opening Hours: Daily: 6PM to 2AM

For Information

Hotel: +973 1763 6363 Concierge: +973 39349659

For Reservations

Hotel: +973 1729 8008

MARCH / APRIL 2013

79

Quoted “Bahrain has long been since golden times a haven of coexistence and human rights.”

Shaikh Khalid Bin Ali Al Khalifa, Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister.

“Let no feeling of discouragement prey upon you, and in the end you are sure to succeed.”

Abraham Lincoln

“If at first the idea is not absurd, then there will be no hope for it.”

Audrey Hepburn

“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.”

“As long as you’re going to be thinking anyway, think big.”

Zig Ziglar

Donald Trump

Albert Einstein

"The cure for anything is salt water - sweat, tears, or the sea.

Isak Dinesen

80

“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”

FEBRUARY MARCH / APRIL 20122013

"The strength of the team is each individual member.

The strength of each member is the team."

Phil Jackson

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BeneďŹ t from innovative ideas that inspire Want to know about the latest in cloud computing, social media, digital innovation, open data and more? Participate in the Bahrain International eGovernment Forum 2013 and hear about it all straight from international experts.

With a series of workshops and an exhibition on the latest online thinking from the region to beneďŹ t from, prepare to be inspired at a forum that will open your mind to a world of possibilities and innovation.

8th – 10th April, 2013

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The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Organized by:

Visit egovforum.bh or call 8000 8001

Co-Organized by:

Strategic partner: