NOVEMBER 2013
www.endeavourmagazine.com
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2 | Endeavour Magazine
EDITORIAL Heads of Departments Editor in Chief Daemon Sands daemonsands@littlegatepublishing.com Director General Don Campbell doncamplel@littlegatepublishing.com Head of Editorial Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com Sales Director James Martin jamesmartin@littlegatepublishing.com Sales Manager Tyler Harrison tylerharrison@littlegatepublishing.com Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com Any enquiries or subscriptions can be sent to info@littlegatepublishing.com ENDEAVOUR MAGAZINE is published by Littlegate Publishing LTD which is a Registered Company in the United Kingdom. Company Registration: 07657236 VAT registration number:116 776007 Tel +44 (0) 1603 296 100 343 City Road London EC1 V1LR
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Littlegate Publishing Ltd does not accept responsibility for omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2013
“W
here is the green?”
hurdles to overcome but for each of
was the favourite
these the solution is only one great idea
phrase
by
away and with companies so eager to
investors and business directors
be seen at the crest of the rising tide
wanting to locate where the money in
of the environmentally conscious and
any new idea, venture or investment
stalwart, essential funds and assistant
could be found. It was the crux of
are being thrown at these ideas to
every conversation, the bottom line of
give them the nourishment they need
every debate and the deciding factor
to be implemented. Not every idea will
of any new proposition. The question
change the world, but those that have
is still asked however the “green” has
often started as a divergent idea to
changed.
something else entirely.
On a never seen before scale the
Importantly, the responsibility that
global business world is more invested
companies have placed on their
into the environment than ever
employees to change the way they
before. Cascading from the biggest
work has made a significant impact
companies, who have made it clear
and cannot be overlooked. What may
that they will only work with suppliers
have started as an office campaign
and vendors sharing their dedication
to remain paperless has evolved
to
into businesses encouraging remote
a
lowered
environmental
coined
carbon activity
footprint, been
access for their employees to work
brought to the accountant’s bottom
from home, reducing their carbon
line and change has surreptitiously
footprint further by removing the
been implemented.
travelling exhausts.
Thanks in part to the communicative
Inventions, like the electric car
power of today’s media, where any
that runs on water are able to get
person working for any business
immediate exposure to the public,
has the power to play company
the GM crops that may be able to
spokesperson
own
repopulate the most arid locations
online community through Facebook,
in Africa with important vegetative
Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr it has
mass have their successes publically
created a stage and an audience for
applauded and the decisions of the
businesses to get stuck in.
companies with the blackest carbon
Whether purely for the positive
footprints are put on trial in front of
publicity that such environmental
a global audience with an unrelenting
focuses will create or because of a
exposure.
genuine desire on behalf of company
The question is asked more often than
owners to change their carbon
ever.
measures, it is promising to see
“Where is your green?”
within
has
their
that the results, irrespective of the reasoning behind them, have become prominent enough to be noticed. There still are problems and great Endeavour Magazine | 3
CONTENTS
FEATURES 24 Rothco Even Brilliant Can Be Better 30 Ekurhuleni Municipality A Major Part Of The Future 38 Murzah Oil Company Keeping It Real 44 Zambeef Retail Beef Retail Is Alive And Kicking 50 Carib Glassworks Success Is Crystal Clear 54 Bindura Haulage Keeping Trade Moving 60 ZB Financial Holdings Limited Banking On Zimbabwe 66 Intertek Focused On Improving Customers’ Products And Processes 72 DairyHill Investments And African Mining And Exploration A Business As Strong As Diamonds 78 Parrogate Zimbabwe Success, Growth And Family Values 84 Wilrock Ltd A Breath Of Fresh Air For St Lucian Development 90 Arab Engineering Bureau Diverse Offering From The AEB Family 96 Ndola Lime Covering The Market 102 Regimanuel Gray Ltd Housing The Community 106 Rikki Brest 110 How to Be A Concert Promoter 112 Book Reviews
50 Zambeef Retail 4 | Endeavour Magazine
72 Intertek
ARTICLES
84 Parrogate Zimbabwe
BIZ-TAINMENT
6 10 12
Lord Bilimoria: Forming The Perfect Beer 6 Beautifully Poetic Office Pranks eToro: The Platform That Made Financial Trading Easy and Simple 14 AUDI A6: A Rocket Propelled Chariot Of Dreams 16 Gadgets 18 Business Headlines 22 The Most Haunted Hotels
Endeavour Magazine | 5
Lord Bilimoria
FORMING THE PERFECT BEER BY DONNIE RUST
Getting hold of Lord Bilimoria is difficult, years of interviewing
I’ve been pestering this man for an interview for months and within
CEOs and it’s still rare to find one as busy as him. After developing his
the first couple of seconds of the phone call he makes me feel like I’m
popular brand from scratch and marketing it between himself and his
doing him a massive favour. This is what many people have come to
partner from the boot of his car he has never lost the entrepreneurial
appreciate about Lord Karan Bilimoria. He has proven himself to be a
philosophy to work and I could hardly expect him to be twiddling his
great business man and more importantly, proven that politeness and
thumbs waiting for my call. Yet, on the same token, when I did reach
respect are what makes a businessman great.
him he focussed on what I said with the tell tail intense interest that
The founder of Cobra Beer, one of my favourite beers to drink
he has become known for, putting the spot light on me as it were and
alongside a curry, Lord Bilimoria created the beer directly for that
making me count each and every one of my words.
purpose. To create a smoother, less gassy lager that appealed to both
“It’s a pleasure to finally speak with you,” he says with a refined
ale drinkers and lager drinkers alike, and that complemented all types
accent that sounds equally British as it does Indian, “Thank you so
of cuisines. For the British it was a plug and play solution that filled a
much for giving me a call.”
niche industry.
6 | Endeavour Magazine
“I was always a good allrounder,”
he
reveals,
the best at whatever I did.”
boarding school to an Indian
by nature however my mother
when
Looking into Lord Bilimoria’s
University could not have been
comes from a business family
asked about whether he was
past you will probably agree
a smooth transition however he
and my great grandfather was an
predicated
business
he is simply being modest. The
took it in his step and relished the
entrepreneur,” he adds.
in his youth, “I was good
young Karan Bilimoria skipped
challenge. An attitude that has
One of the things that
academically and good at sports.
several years at school and was
served him very well throughout
always interested me is the
I always preferred leadership
in university at an unusually
the years.
childhood of the people we
roles and was determined to be
young age. Going from an English
“I
towards
wasn’t
entrepreneurial
admire, those people whose
Endeavour Magazine | 7
success and business affluence is something we aspire to follow. I always find myself wanting to know if they were you given many opportunities to create businesses ideas as a youngster and was there support from friends and family? “I had some very good influences as a youngster,” Lord Bilimoria reflects, “My family supported everything I did, so I never doubted myself. I had a good family, good friends but it really was my father who was a major influence in my life.”
Cobra Beer The creation of Cobra Beer reads like something out of a novel, Lord Bilimoria started it out of a need, a requirement for a better companion to curries and the first sales were out of
was a struggle it wasn’t until we
the boot of his car. This is a true
created Cobra beer that things
success story starting from the
started to move.”
from the ground up.
important things, for example,
Cobra Beer is a major brand,
the product quality is essential.
with a major customer and
A beverage is something that
ground up which did not, as a
Lord Bilimoria goes on to say
employee footprint. I spoke with
people have to choose and it
matter of fact, begin with the
that it was during this time that
Lord Bilimoria regarding the key
doesn’t matter what product
beverage he is so well known for.
he learnt the most important
points he believes have worked.
it is if the quality of taste
“About a year before founding
lessons in business, such things as
“THE most important thing
drops people will simply stop
Cobra beer we started an import
researching, sourcing, marketing
for Cobra has been the joint
purchasing it. Also, the beer
business,” Lord Bilimoria reflects,
and selling, also recognizing the
venture
has a complicated recipe which
“Importing products, polo sticks,
time to pursue something and
relationship
Molton
means it has to be brewed in a
clothes, wallets from India into
when to let it die. It was like this
Coors,” he points out, “And this
very special manner to retain the
Britain and while much of this
that they built the Cobra brand
runs parallel with a number of
flavour and the smoothness that
8 | Endeavour Magazine
and
corresponding with
it has become so well known for.”
the dark but Lord Bilimoria was
development and growth, of
Cobra Beer have won 73
quite frank regarding the details:
looking at ways to improve your
gold medal quality awards over
“We work with the best
company, your business and your
the years and the growth of its
people,” Lord Bilimoria explains,
offerings. Instead of riding the
popularity stems almost directly
“A great team is essential.
wave to actually be the wave of
from the Indian Restaurants
They are the pioneers in the
change that others ride upon.
and curry houses where Cobra
industry and the ones who
has over 98% distribution. Lord
have established such a strong
innovate,”
Bilimoria is, therefore, insistent
footprint across the food and
can never stop innovating, you
on
receiving
beverage industries. Once you
can’t stop offering something
feedback from these sources
have that as your foundation,
new. Something interesting to
as to the quality and level of
growth is easy.”
keep people using your product.
Cobra
Beer
enjoyment of their beverages.
Ingredients For Success Having
survived
He also explains that they do
“You have to continue to
Sometimes
he presses, “You
it’ll
work
and
and are to increase their focus
sometimes it won’t but it keeps
on exports and imports, further
things alive and moving in the
establishing both the local and
right direction.” He wraps up.
international footprint for their many
drink.
***
different economic and social-
“We’re looking to establish
Lord Bilimoria is also in the
political climates, there must be
Cobra beer into bars and clubs
House of Lords, on the Board of
a secret list of ingredients for
to broaden the distribution and
Booker, and patron/Trustee of
the success of a company such as
reach of our beer,”
several charities. “ The education
Cobra Beer. Perhaps a formula
The major token that Lord
of the youth is the most
that is hidden away from the
Bilimoria was heavily insistent
important thing we can do at the
world to keep the competition in
upon was the importance of
moment.” He states.
Endeavour Magazine | 9
6 BEAUTIFULLY POETIC
Office Pranks WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST
O
ffice politics are prickly enough. A pantomime of people trying to be dramatic over really stupid little things that become very important whenever you’re forced to sit
within striking distance of the person doing them. Yes, it’s frowned upon to pummel your work colleagues into a bloody stew and you know it’ll end up on Youtube but that’s why we provide this list of Office Pranks for you.
Office Prank # 1: The Parrot Take out an ad on Gumtree that you are looking to rehome an African Grey Parrot (£795.00 on www.birdtrader.co.uk…. I did not even know there was a birdtraider.co.uk). The ad must state that it is because you work odd hours and are unable to give the bird the attention it requires and that you will only be available between the hours of midnight and 4am during the week and unavailable during the weekend. Add a picture of a parrot. Give the name and cell-phone number of somebody in the office you don’t like and say that you will be selling the bird for £50.00 – £70.00 The Result: The person you don’t like will receive phone calls from people at 2am in the morning asking, “Yeah, are you the guy with the parrot?”
Office Prank # 2: The Double Lance Bass Frape Based loosely upon that horrible film with that N’Sync singer where he met a girl on a bus or something and started predatorily looking for her before Facebook had made it easier to stalk. Basically, it’s a Frape, easily done in any office where they allow
10 | Endeavour Magazine
access to Facebook (most offices
make coffee or have a leak get
Lure your victim away from the computer, or if you’re a
today), most people leave their
in, go to the Control Panel and
traditionalist sneak into the office after hours. This depends on the
Facebook’s logged in when they
find Language Settings. You will
security measures available.
leave their desks as they just
have a choice of languages, some
close the window. So when they
of them will be navigatable, ie.
leave for the day you open up
Spanish, Italian and Portugeuse
The Result: not only will they be speaking gibberish in their emails
Facebook and you say:
On their keyboard, prise off the T&Y and M&N buttons, swap them round to Y&T and N&M.
can be worked through by
but most times they’ll think it’s a computer software fault and not
“Urgent, Master Resetted
anyone with an eye for wording
hardware. It’ll take them some time to realize that someone can be so
my iPhone and I’ve lost all my
however Russian, Mandarin or
devoted to pranking that they would sneak in afterhours just to make
contact details could you please
Vietnamese are as different in
their emails look like they are drunk.
drop me a text with your name,”
the written word as you can get.
The Result: Text upon text of people with their telephone numbers and name.
Change it, sit down and get on the phone.
Office Prank # 5: The Cellphone Easy to do but costly, this one requires the purchase of a cellular
The Result: a lot of frantic
phone. Or, of course, you can borrow one of your colleague’s phones.
Ps. Kinda lame I know, but I
key punching, mouse clicking
Working best in someone’s office, you can pick on that chump who’s
mentioned this one because it
and swearing followed by an
been promoted over you or to that boss who keeps insisting you go
took me about forty minutes to
embarrassed plea to the office at
get the coffee for the rest of the team. All you have to do is hide the
explain it to my mom.
large to anyone who knows how
phone somewhere in the office. Avoid all of the obvious places.
Office Prank # 3: Lost In Translation I did this on Daemon Sands our chief editor before the launch of our very first issue and he still insists on speaking to me outside his office. So I wouldn’t suggest using this one if there
to fix things, who will find they
My advice: if you have a skirting board or a plaster board, with
can’t because everything is in a
some time and some DIY you can actually hide the phone inside the
different language!
wall or somewhere the victim will be unable to see it. Then, using
Don’t let them find out it was
earphones you can hide them somewhere else. If you’re real cunning
you though or else you’ll be the
also keep the phone plugged in if you can manage it so that it doesn’t
one having to work out how to fix
have to be turned off.
it and it isn’t like climbing a tree,
The Result: a few hours of watching them tear down the walls
doing it in reverse doesn’t always
to find a phone are actually worth it in itself, however they’ll almost
work.
definitely know its you. Or, they could reveal their true colours and turn into a quivering wreck.
are any long term relationships you’re hoping to keep… and if you want to take the chance make sure you know how to fix it fast. All
computers
have
the
Office Prank # 4: The Drunk Fingers I Got
Office Prank #6: Staple, Tie And Desk Also called “Matilda” for some reason this one is all about being opportunistic and it really helps if you have a dolt of a co-worker who
operational capacity to work in
This one has all the hallmarks
falls asleep at his desk. It’s a strange phenomenon that it’s the offices
different languages and changing
of a Mission Impossible episode
running to pressurized deadlines that seem to attract people who
the Language Settings is actually
and the only way it could be
will happily nod off at their desks. This is not Japan people. If you fall
a simple process found on the
cooler is if you had the theme
asleep at your desk, this is called justice.
Control Panel.
tune playing in the background.
So,
spend
some
time
Also this is one that will not
practising getting this down to
be possible when keyboards
the T because if you get caught
become redundant in the future
the game is over and when your
of touch screen computers so
target leaves their desk to go
hurry up and give this a go.
What you’ll need: a staple, a desk and a narcoleptic co-worker who still wears a tie. Wait for them to fall asleep, position the tie upon the desk, and within a double beat staple the tie and slap them in the face. The Result: a life-long game of “gotcha” that’ll inevitable result in you dying or losing your teeth.
Endeavour Magazine | 11
WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST
eToro THE PLATFORM THAT MADE FINANCIAL TRADING EASY AND SIMPLE
A
h, to have the life
any film or music industry. It is
and
the golden egg which most of us
money
banker.
Like
of
a the
are too hesitant to grasp.
amongst others. Later the company expanded its product
magician’s circle the realm of
You’ll be glad to know that
offering by launching
the stock exchange, Wallstreet
things have finally changed and
professional trader’s
and financial brokerage has
the evolution of the financial
application
always been a “members only”
industry has entered the realm
Mode” and a web
club where those who were
of online platforming and “group
based
successful in it were the gifted
intelligence”, giving people like
platform “WebTrader”.
few with the talent for numbers,
you and me the opportunity to
the gift of the gab and a complete
make money just like Gordon
eToro launched the
and utter lack of compunction.
Gecko.
“CopyTrader” feature
The analogy, “If you’re meant for this game, you already know
The Early Days
a
“Expert trading
In
May
its
2011 i n
“OpenBook”
community platform,
it,” is well known and has created
Founded in January 2007,
which enables users to
an illusion about this industry
eToro was created in Tel-Aviv, by
view, follow and copy
that has only been fuelled by
brothers Yoni Assia and Ronen
the
films like Wall Street and Boiler
Assia together with David Ring
traders automatically
Room that this industry is a day
- an online platform version in
and between 2007 and 2012 it raised $31.5 million in five rounds
to day gauntlet of yelling down
a visual trading mode which
of funding to help it expand the business. Throughout this period it
phones
presented
opened a research and development office in Israel and additional
at
potential
clients,
online
currency
network’s
top
calling people out on putting
trading (FOREX) as a series of
their money where their mouth is
games. Initially eToro’s financial
It wasn’t until 2013, that I tried eToro for the first time and the
and spending money faster than
trading platform was a download
approach was that this was something very new with the great
they can make it. Forget about
only
incorporating
potential to change a lot of things. I joined up and bought some shares
the entertainment industry, this
graphic trading visualizations
in Google and Facebook with more ease than I thought was possible.
is the industry which defined
which conceptualized the trading
It was in fact so easy that I pestered eToro’s PR and communications
“Cutthroat” and “Black Fridays”
process as a race between
Manager, Nadav Avidan for answers to establish a few important
and made more billionaires than
currencies and a visual tug of war
things.
12 | Endeavour Magazine
product,
offices in UK, Cyprus, the US and Australia.
Where Does eToro Operate? “The
key
areas
that
we’re focused on are social trading, social investing, social networking
making
use
of
various instruments including stocks, commodities, indices and currencies,” Nadav Avidan, PR
philosophy and desire to crack
in future developments and
a large team of customer facing
open this industry for everyone
upcoming
Nadav
and customer services available in
to enjoy.
told me, “A lot of our features
several languages. I myself spent
have emerged from customer
a lot of time speaking with their
suggestions and requests, and
customer services department
we take great pride in this.”
via their Chat system because
How Do You Know It Works?
features,”
“We are constantly engaging
Specific customer focuses are
it takes a long time for me to
with our community and making
in place to keep you, the customer
understand things and one thing
sure that they are a major part
satisfied and happy, making use of
I noticed is that “Fred” refused to leave me until I was completely
and Communications Manager
and utterly satisfied.
for eToro explained to me, “We are focusing on the web
The Big Question:
“Retention is a very important goal for us,” he explained, “As a
experience and offering, as well
Probably one of the most important. Using eToro seems to
as growing focus on our mobile
social investment network, we
be very simple and straight forward. For someone who doesn’t
platforms. We offer several
aim for users to stay with us for
have any experience in trading at all but wants to invest in a
trading
the long term, and every action
company purely to make money, I asked Nadav directly if it is
we take is with that in mind.”
tools:
WebTrader,
eToro’s OpenBook, mobile apps
actually as simple as it seems:
and more, as well as the ability
Donnie: Do I just set up an account and buy some shares?
to CopyTrade every user in the
Nadav: “Yup. You can open an account for free using
community.”
Who Works Behind The Scenes? As a credit to their direction and the strength of their brand eToro have had the cream of the crop to choose from as far as staff. Two hundred and forty people work at the company and all of them are top notch professionals, providing a very wide experience in
tech,
innovation,
trading,
marketing, customer service and social media. “Individual staff development is
very
important,”
Nadav
continues, “We consider eToro as a place to grow with and our employees often change departments enough
after
experience
gaining in
their
current position, thus enabling them as well as eToro to enjoy the great benefit of someone who’s passionate about the company, its vision and it’s goals.” Clearly a company planning to be around for the long term and not at all shy about the limelight, a fact made obvious by their client focusses that
How do they keep ahead of the competition? “We
maintain
a
startup
Facebook connect, after that you can deposit as little as 50 USD
mentality,
to get you started and then you’re free to invest in stocks, copy
employees to think “outside the
other traders and trade manually yourself.”
box”. There are no clear borders
Donnie: Okay. On my profile I have an Profit and Equity figure, I’m a layman so what is the difference between Profit and Equity? Nadav: “Equity is the total amount of money in your account, Profit is the gain you make on a successful investment. (i.e I
encouraging
all
between departments, and every employee can offer the next innovative idea that will change the world we live in,”
have opened an account and funded it with 200 USD- that’s my
EToro are working hard to
equity. Later on I have turned my 200 USD into 270 USD, with
further establish their mobile
a series of wise decisions, so I have made a total of 70 USD as
offerings, as they predict more
profit).”
and more users will want to
Donnie: Right. Finally, when it comes to withdrawing money do I withdraw from the profit or from the “Equity” figure given.
engage via their mobile devices in the coming years. They’ve also
Nadav: “If the equity was all funded by the trader, ie. You,
released a lot of new instruments
then he can withdraw all his fund (equity plus profit). If part of the
such as blue chips stocks for their
equity comes from gift cards and bonuses given by eToro from
users to trade and invest in, and
time to time, then this part will not be eligible for withdraw. (i.e if
have launched many features to
I funded my account with 200 USD and gained a 70 USD profit,
their “OpenBook”, thus enabling
I can now withdraw 270 USD. However, if I have deposited 100
a seamless social experience
USD, got 100 USD in eToro’s giftcard and then made a gain of
while investing- and experience
70 USD, I will only be able to withdraw 170 USD).”
that is easy, fun and transparent
So yes, eToro makes financial investment as straight forward
like never before.
and simple as you’d like it to be. You purchase a share of a stock
By continually growing as
of a company and as their value rises so too does the value of
the category leader of social
the stock. I bought $60 worth of shares in Google and saw my
investing, eToro have predicted
money rise to over $213 within a week. The value rises, the
the rapid changes the world
value drops but I have the choice of getting more involved or
is
simply watching my money work for me.
this exciting revolution to the
undergoing
and
brought
My plan is to invest a similar amount every month to build
doorstep of every person with
up my own portfolio and for a man who doesn’t have the time or
internet access, thus fulfilling
the interest to actually become a trader, this is brilliant because
their vision of opening the global
finally my money is working for me and yes, IT IS THAT SIMPLE.
markets to all interested in it.
is largely representative of a Endeavour Magazine | 13
AUDI A6
BY DONNIE RUST
A Rocket Propelled Chariot Of Dreams
I
am writing this as an editor and not a car fanatic. I know how this
aesthetics has created a body designed to protect the driver and the
sounds, as I’m responsible for many of the car reviews appearing
passengers. They then added in the heart of a beast in the form of the
in Endeavour Magazine, but I want to offer a normal person’s view
glowing 3.0 BiTDI Quattro SE Tiptonic engine that creates a thrust
of the Audi A6 and not a petrol head’s regurgitation of facts, specs and numbers.
that almost, almost makes you afraid to put your right foot down. The comfort of any vehicle says a lot and there is a lot to say
AUDI must be very proud of their A6 which has heralded a new
about it. For the Audi A6 it begins with the safety features. We live
era in vehicular evolution; functionally flawless, extraordinarily
in a time where we want safety but we do not want to be reminded
luxurious and unequivocally tasteful this majestic alpha-class cruiser
that we need additional safety and this is one of the areas that I found
passed the competition to determine an entirely new state of being.
particularly refreshing about this latest model. It has everything you
Getting behind the wheel of the Audi A6 is like watching the sunrise
can think of to keep you as safe from every conceivable problem or
over the curvature of the Earth from orbit, once done, you’ll never be
emergency as possible, yet for the most part it’s only subtly hinted at.
able see things the same again.
A kind reminder that no matter what might happen the Audi A6 is on
A great deal of time and consideration has gone into the
your side.
construction of the A6 to make it as lightweight as possible and the
Stability Control of the Audi A6 senses when the vehicle’s
materials used have further enhanced the performance and fuel
handling limits have been exceeded and reduces engine power and/or
efficiency while not removing any of the comfort, safety features
applies selected brakes to help the assist the driver and Anti-whiplash
or technology that makes this series what it is. The result is a hyper
head restraints actively react to rear collision forces to cradle the
intelligent machine with a breathtakingly powerful engine, superior
occupants head in an effort to reduce the likelihood of a whiplash
handling and powerful good looks.
injury. The Audi A6 is always two steps ahead of you.
The drive is exactly what you would expect from the current
And, specifically because of the above, you’re unlikely to find
favourite child of Audi. The aluminium construction and lightweight
yourself in the position to experience the other safety measures,
body panels , the enhanced safety features and meticulous attention
including the front, side, overhead and knee-level airbags that are
to every detail in safety and functionality before they even looked at
positioned and timed so that if an accident does occur the occupants
14 | Endeavour Magazine
are protected from all sides. In fact, like myself, the height of the
for precision parking.
where technology, luxury and
safety measures you will be aware of, would be the reassuring and
One of the newest features
executive beauty have merged
almost parental pretensioning of the seatbelts that you feel tug gently
that I haven’t seen before is the
together to create a reliable,
as you begin to drive.
photosensitive lightning, at a
fuel efficient, rocket powered
One of the security features that I did not know about until I
flick of a switch the headlights
chariot. How Audi have managed
looked into it is that the Audi A6’s is also equipped with a means of
automatically go from high to low
to make something so powerful
anticipating and detected unwanted vehicle intrusions, including an
beam as it senses approaching
yet so easy to drive is a secret
ignition disabling device that’ll prevent the engine from starting if the
lights, be it an approaching car,
that is keeping them well ahead
original manufacturing keyfob is not used.
a village or a large sign- anyone
of the game and you would be
who’s been blinded by their
hard pressed to find any other
comfortably, the front seats are all fully adjustable with the options
The A6 has a spacious interior where two adults can sit
high-beams
executive brand so capable and
of recording two different seating positions for each of the front
road sign will understand the
seats so if you’re sharing the driving you can change the seat to your
benefits of this. Granted, other
And if I ever become wealthy
preference at a touch of a button. Finally I’ve found a car that can
manufacturers and brands may
enough to have my own driver, I’d
accommodate my 6 foot five inch frame comfortably.
reflected
off
a
rewarding.
share this and maybe I’m just
still buy one of these and make
Bluetooth connectivity from your phone to the dash board
behind the times, but I thought
him sit in the back so that I could
computer offers a surround sound handsfree system and easy access
it was a marvellous addition to a
drive it!
to your music and telephone book while an intuitive Sat Nav gives you
catalogue of solutions Audi have
ample warning and an alternate route if there are any road works,
given this car to make driving an
accidents or queued traffic ahead. For the parking, the proximity
absolute pleasure.
sensors gives you a full 360 degree advantage on where you’re going,
In conclusion I got exactly
although if you’re not used to it the beeping warning can catch you off
what I expected from the Audi
guard. But what at first is surprising soon becomes an essential tool
A6. An immersion into a world Endeavour Magazine | 15
GADGETS
RRP: a gobsmacking $115,000 http://bit.ly/llluQ5
Jet Lev Flyer By Tyrone Smith
T
his is epically awesome however unless you are someone
stable, controlled flight as you soar 10 metres above the water at
who can shrug off the $115,000.00 price tag, or a gadget-
speeds of up to 35km/h. Not quite the speed for a superhero you
journalist for an international magazine who can wrangle a
will be the envy of all your friends and for those of you in the South
free try, I wouldn’t suggest ordering one of these.
Hemisphere, not afraid to come back down to water.
However, messing about on the water is great fun and being ten
The carbon-fibre JetLev is tethered via a flexible supply hose to a
metres above it on your own jet blast is so far the only way to seem
separate boat-like unit containing a sucktastic 4-stroke engine. This
even more epic.
whooshes pressurised water into the jetpack, which then generates
The result of years of painstaking research and development, the emphatically custom built JetLev gives you the ability to achieve
thrust by nozzle reaction force (whatever that is). It’s a bit like riding a pair of high-powered, easy-to-control fire hoses.
SunnyCam By Donnie Rust
I
£99.99 http://sunnycamglasses.com
t has long been an opinion of
as the technology improves the
large bulky video cameras as we know them become redundant.
mine that I have the makings
possibilities are quite brilliant.
Yes, currently they have their limitations but the film quality of the
of a great spy. I have the
Currently
is
SunnyCam are very impressive, the sound quality is above average and
looks, the height and I look simply
state of the art, however it does
when considering the steps being made in visual technology they are
superb in a suit. So, naturally
not upload via wifi or to The
only a few steps away from making a fully functional Hollywood movie
I was desperate to try out the
Cloud yet, but it is only a matter
level camera that someone wears subtly on their face instead of holding
SunnyCam
Recording
of time before you’ll be able to
on their shoulders.
Sunglasses. These high definition
record realtime what you see
There is a certain element to the design of the SunnyCam which
sunglasses can record audio and
which has the ability to change
combines smooth aesthetics and functionality together. My Chief used
visual, they have stability control
the
industry
these at the Mercedes Driving Day last week so you’ll be able to see the
so you can walk without the
by revolutionizing the idea of
videos very soon, the point is that you can wear these and with a touch
camera blinking, you can change
reality
of a small button you’re recording.
the lens from dark to light and
on this in the past about how,
Finally, these have filled a needed niche; with the popularity of
it possesses up to three hours
people would actually pay to
Youtube and other video sites, the importance of visual media to social
recording time.
spend time watching someone
networking an increase in the ease and access of creating spontaneous
Video
Comfortable to wear a lot
the
SunnyCam
entertainment shows.
We
touched
just going about their lives, living
videos has become very important. Vines and GIFs on Tumblr are
of cyclists and runners have
vicariously
taking over videos and things are changing with generation X.
started to use these in case they
else. Additionally, this design
are involved in accidents and
paves a road to a future where
16 | Endeavour Magazine
through
someone
You’ll be seeing more of these, and they’ll be seeing you too.
£499.95 www.Currys.com
Samsung ATIV Book 9 Lite By Stuart Platt
W
indows 8 is beginning to embed itself into the public
enough separation between keys
for gaming or hardened editing,
knowledge and we’re getting more and more used to
for it to not prove a mash-up of
that’s not what this machine is all
the concept of touchscreen laptops. And that’s exactly
keys when typing.
about.
where the affordable, Sub £500 Samsung ATIV Book 9 Lite fits in. The ATIV Book 9 Lite does away with the old Series 3, 5, 7 and 9 models with a fresh lease of life. It’s all new.
The first ATIV model that
A
we’ve seen for review breathes
tracking
comfortable and
typing,
touchscreen
fresh life into the Samsung lap
experience wrapped up in a
As with many Windows 8 machines the ATIV Book 9 Lite adopts
top range. The Book 9 Lite is
portable package. Even if the
a touchscreen principle. You can swipe in, drag icons around and do
good looking, it’s offering that’s
ATIV Book 9 Lite doesn’t quite
all those touch-enabled things that you may - or may not - want to do.
affordable and just as on the
take our breath away in terms
I am still on the fence about touchscreen laptops, but I can see the
money when it comes to all those
of excitement, for the money
benefits in future functionality.
day-to-day tasks.
it’s one of the more favorable
You don’t have to touch the screen, that’s part of the pleasure of
The SSD makes it fast to load
using a laptop. And the island keyboard found in the 9 Lite feels really
and wake from sleep, and even if
good in use. It’s springy and resistive to just the right point and there’s
the AMD processor isn’t cut out
The Rhino Shield By Don Campbell
I
laptops out there today and well worth a look.
£17.99 http://bit.ly/1gFk93U
found this a day after walking
number. As one of life’s hard lessons we usually just go on using the
the included cloth and then the
into a corner of a desk with
phone with it’s shattered face until we get a new upgrade. Apple makes
self-adhesive silicone clings to
my phone in my pocket
money out of replacing phone faces and so will not be producing a
your phone screen like magic. No
stronger surface for a while. Enter Rhino Shield.
residue, no air bubbles, no fuss.
and managing to do the same damage to the screen I would
Made from an ingenious custom-formulated polymer, this slender
If you don’t have this you’ll
have achieved if I’d had fired a
screen saviour absorbs five times the impact energy of the much-
want it. If you don’t have this and
bullet into it.
lauded Gorilla glass. Your screens will be safe from most accidental
have a broken screen you’ll really,
impacts and even some deliberate ones.
really want this.
Ultimately, it’s inevitable that we will drop our mobile phone
Just 0.029cm thick, it’s impressive to say the least and doesn’t
or throw it in anger against the
compromise on touch-screen capability or Apple’s elegant aesthetics.
wall depending on who has your
It’s also easy to apply, you give your phone a quick wipe down with Endeavour Magazine | 17
BUSINESS HEADLINES
Dead Or Alive? F BY JACK DEAN acebook.
ol’
wanted to see, Facebook is now
Facebook. Facebook is
Poor
overwhelmed by the complete
the plastic toy you find
opposite; millions of videos we
in your cereal box. Sure, a couple
DO want to see. And I personally,
of years ago, everybody loved it,
don’t know if that’s a good thing.
people would get out of bed an
Procrastination was always
extra twenty minutes early just
the main selling point of the
to see what today’s surprise was.
network, but it seems in 2013, it’s
It was fun, it was exciting; it was
actually possible to procrastinate
slightly less crap than Bebo. But
procrastination
just like the toys in your
procrastination – if that makes
Cheerios, it died out. And not because some poor kid from Exeter choked on a small plastic
with
more
sense? (I just like using that word, to be honest).
£637,000,000. 17 months ago Facebook put
But Facebook is now swarmed with new, popular, six- their hands in their rich, rich pockets for the photo sharing micro-site. And to date, we
second ‘Vine’ videos.
truck, but because thousands of
You simply cannot spend 5 minutes on Facebook have seen no integration, except for a “share
kids choked on the truck-load of
anymore, checking how your Auntie’s, cousin’s, dog’s to Facebook” button added to Instagram’s
repulsive, X-rated videos, that
christening went.
Facebook moderators simply
6-second clips monkeys smoking meth, and women seems to pull something out of the bag, at the
couldn’t control.
twerking whilst on fire. It’s like Facebook has become the last minute, which is why; we shouldn’t bury
On the Monday, Facebook was the most popular social networking
website
in
the
Now you find yourself watching options.
visual page for Pete Doherty’s mind.
But time and time again Mark Z
his chickens before they’ve died. (That’s clever
Whether you love or loathe Zuckerberg’s creation – right?) there is no denying, it’s a machine that will eventually self-
Despite the spam, the lack of control, the
world; Hollywood even jumped
destruct. Its best years have been and gone, and waves horrible new designs, and all else that seems
on it and made that decent
of users are flooding elsewhere to digest their medial to be wrong with Facebook at present – could
film starring that Timberlake
needs. Facebook is now Harry Potter, in the cupboard there be a delightfully new and exciting twist
chap. But by Friday, it was the
under the stairs, whilst that fat, rich kid seems to be the coming soon? Will Facebook shock the world
abused social hub in which
Twitter bird. It seems to be that no matter which route again by adding new, never-before-seen
people posted all the rubbish
the developers decide to take with Facey-B, it’ll still features and beautiful sleek designs?
they couldn’t fit into Twitter’s
eventually crash and burn – much like poor ol’ Bebo & 2014 be the revival of the big gun? It’s all a
140-character limit. Daily, we’d
MSN did. It speaks volumes that a website that offered waiting game.
see 13 year olds posting pictures
so much, is now being used by a majority for videos made
in their underwear, we’d have to
on a different App.
Will
But I for one will not be surprised if FB’s little investment of 637 million quid pays off
scroll through paragraphs and
So unless Vine, Twitter, Facebook & Reddit die in a ridiculously well in the New Year. I can’t see
paragraphs of how somebody
horrific crash, and all go up in flames – Facebook simply a guy with the online power that Zuckerberg
made their breakfast, and we’d
isn’t the spring chicken at the top of the pecking order has, not taking a product as sought-after
have to ignore thousands of
anymore.
videos of Eastern European lads
as Instagram, and totally regenerating it to
Now of course, this doesn’t affect Zuckerberg or making big, big bucks. But until that day emerges, and I’m proven
kicking dogs off of bridges. It
anyone else on his billion-pound empire, he shifted the
was a pretty dire experience to
majority of his shares back in 2012. This seems to be wrong in every way possible – Facebook still
say the least.
just one of the incredibly smart things he did in 2012, seems to be slowly dying, a little more and
Now despite the heaps of stuff nobody in their right mind 18 | Endeavour Magazine
after reportedly buying Instagram for $1BN dollars. more, each day. (Yeah, that’s right – a billion dollars). That’s just over
But then, much like this blog; are we all
November books
confused between the life and death of Facebook? Is the mass spam REALLY an indication of a slow decline, or in fact the complete opposite – and a massive sign of over-crowding of new and old users? Are the numbers getting so
RESGEN WELCOMES MAJOR SA INVESTOR
think is bad about Facebook,
D
actually great for the creators
Public Investment Corporation
of Facebook?
(PIC) as a major shareholder,
large, that Facebook is being constantly filled with stuff that by default; won’t be enjoyed by the majority? Is everything we
We don’t know
ual-listed
South
Resource
major investor, their substantial
Generation (ResGen)
presence on the register really
has
will provide us with a significant
welcomed
African
the
government’s
qualitative message.” said Jury. The PIC is reported to have a 19.9% shareholding in ResGen.
the statistics, but with every
following
A$62.6-
ASX- and JSE-listed ResGen
annoying kid on our newsfeed,
million capital raising to start
also recently sold a 15% interest
came that initial sign-up adding
major construction work at its
in the company to Singapore-
to Facebook’s numbers. Every
Boikrabelo coal mine, in the
listed Blumont Group, in an
annoying advert that pops up on
Waterberg.
investment priced at between
the side, asking if we want to get
ResGen
a
recent
MD
Paul
Jury
A$20-million and A$25-million.
a toned stomach in 12 seconds,
said this week that existing
ResGen’s Boikarabelo mine
came the initial lump sum straight
shareholder Noble Group had
is in the Waterberg region,
into Zuckerberg’s pocket. And as
supported the raising, along
which accounts for 40% of South
stated before, as much as we all
with other major South African
Africa’s remaining coal resource,
moan, and hate the direction the
investors,
including
Altius
and has a probable reserve of
website seems to be headed –
Investment
Holdings,
which
744.8-million
we still continue to use it, daily.
introduced PIC to ResGen’s
1 of the mine development is
So are we part of the decline?
share registry.
targeting an initial output of
Or still a tiny part in the massive empire that is Facebook?
“To say the least, we are
tonnes.
Stage
Turn to page
some six-million tonnes a year.
very excited to have the PIC as a Endeavour Magazine | 19
TV DOMINATES AS VIEWERS DEMAND CONTENT ON TABLETS, SMARTPHONES AND OTHER DEVICES
F
rost & Sullivan finds video
regional market life cycle analyses, drivers and restraints, forecasts
consumer emphasis on
and trends (including segmentation by region and product, as well as
optimal QoS and QoE
unit shipments and revenue forecasts), product and pricing analyses,
across multiple devices requires
key market participant breakdown (including market share and
a robust monitoring solution
competitive analysis), in addition to segmentation by revenue, type
Video consumption across non-traditional
devices
such
America; Europe; the Middle East; Africa; and Asia-Pacific.
as tablets, smartphones, PCs
In addition to traditional broadcast services, cable operators are
and connected PCs evolved
distributing videos over various devices as well. This increases the
exponentially
into
global
complexity of the network, which compels operators to adopt IP-
phenomenon
that
not
based infrastructure. Additionally, increasing multi-screen viewing
restricted to a geographic area
drives demand for video quality monitoring, especially from the
or a limited number of service
telecommunications segment.
providers.
With
a is
TV
“As broadcasters all over the world upgrade to digital and high-
service providers offering more
definition (HD) workflows, the deployment of IP networking across
applications
interactive
the value chain is a certainty,” said Frost & Sullivan Digital Media
content, the rising adoption of
Research Director Vidya S. Nath. “This translates to higher adoption
IP by broadcasters and video
of video network management equipment, such as probes and video
service
analyzers, as well as data-mining systems -- all of which are critical for
and
providers,
cable
and
the
growing consolidation among
20 | Endeavour Magazine
of end user and unit. The research covers North, Central and South
analyzing quality of service and equipment.”
operators, the global IP video
The process of ensuring overall efficient management of IP video,
network management market
based on metrics such as quality of experience (QoE) and quality of
benefited greatly, forecasted to
service (QoS), utilizes probes, analyzers and data-mining solutions.
reach $442.4 million in 2017,
Probes accounted for the biggest revenue share of the global IP video
from $217.8 million in 2012.
network management market at 53 percent in 2012; growing at the
New analysis from Frost
expense of analyzers. Probes provide real-time and offline quality loss
& Sullivan’s Global IP Video
measurement, while analyzers monitor compliance with regulatory
Network Management Market
guidelines, such as closed caption subtitling. Data-mining solutions
research finds that by 2016, more
are the key to QoS and QoE metrics, as this technology monitors the
than 70 percent of data traffic
overall health of the network.
on mobile devices will be video.
“Integrated with the entire network, data-mining solutions are able
This analysis features additional
to provide a level of detail that corresponds to the size of the network,”
market measurements, as well
said Nath. “In addition, evolving data-mining solutions provide system
as the CEO’s perspective, value
information at the most granular level pertaining to every channel
chain and solution workflow
connected to the network, plus pan-geographic location views. As
breakdowns, product overviews,
targeted and interactive advertisements increase across devices and
MERCEDES BENZ TEST DRIVE On the 18th of October Mercedes Benz opened its doors and press fleet to a very select few magazines and Littlegate Publishing was honoured to be included. We sent two of our senior management to their headquarters in the UK to experience some of the Mercedes Benz cars. The four cars we choose to test were the gull winged SLS AMG GT COUPÉ, the sporty SL 350 AMG SPORT, the limousine S 350 BlueTEC L SE LINE and the beefy C 63 AMG Estate family sports car. Full reviews are to follow in later issues however applications such as video
as a teaser to sum up these cars in one word I
on demand (VOD), the use
would have to use “stunning”.
of such video monitoring and tracking technologies will grow.” An offers of
IP
architecture
the
advantages
scalability
and
high
flexibility to manage and
FUEL INJECTED ECONOMY SUPPORTING MERCEDES
distribute content in real-
F1 is an essential sport. Creating a directly
time. This sets it apart from
competitive testing ground for much of the
For the most part, most of the companies are
other technologies such
technology that we take for granted in the cars
zipped-lipped regarding details of the economic
as asynchronous transfer
that we use on the roads, but according to a
impact of the F1 teams. The reason being that to
mode (ATM), asynchronous
recent Pitpass business editor Christian Sylt, this
calculate the data requires specific information
serial interface (ASI), and
is only one of its gifts. While being entertaining
on supplier location which is of course deeply
intermediate
and providing an outlet for motor and petrol
guarded.
frequency
(IF)/radio frequency (RF). “Across verticals,
end-user clients
clearly
Championship.
heads across the planet, the Mercedes F1 team
Mercedes alone works with 1,500 UK-
injected over £200 million into the UK economy.
based suppliers including caterers, designers,
By themselves.
equipment manufacturers and haulage firms.
indicate video quality is
“Earlier in October Pitpass’ business editor
Research from the German manufacturer shows
directly linked to survival,”
Christian Sylt wrote a news story for the London-
that last year its F1 team and engine division
commented Nath. “With
based business newspaper CityAM which
spent £125m with them and employed 1,114 staff
the increasing complexity
revealed that Mercedes’ Formula One team made
in the UK. This gave it a total wage bill of £69.9m
in video delivery, service
an after-tax loss of £31.5m in 2012. Revenue
bringing the economic impact to £194.9m.
providers are not merely
remained stable at £115m whilst operating costs
Payments to UK suppliers comprised around
trying
their
accelerated 20% to £151m as 86 staff were
half of the £277m total costs of the team and
customers
added taking the total to 612. However, that
engine division. However, this is not a net cost
but are also seeking to
was only half of the story as Sylt revealed in the
to Mercedes as it is offset by income from prize
deploy IP video network
Sunday Express that Mercedes’ F1 team injected
money, sponsorship and lease payments from
management solutions to
a massive £200m into the UK economy last year.”
McLaren and Force India for the use of its engines.
future-proof their entire
– Pitpass.com
present
to
please
delivery ecosystem.”
So in the end, while many people complain
This is really the cherry of the top for an
about how much money is spent on F1 it can’t
already impressive month for the Brackley based
be ignored how much money is pumped into the
oufit as it overtook Ferrari at the Indian Grand
home locations.
Prix to claim second place in the Constructors’
Thumbs up. Endeavour Magazine | 21
THE MOST
Haunted
HOTELS
BY DENNY MCELLIS
The Hotel del Salto in Colombia The Hotel del Salto overlooking the Tequendama Falls on the Bogotá River in Colombia, opened in 1924 it shut its doors in the 1990’s. The hotel’s Gothic design is perfectly enhanced by a river and waterfall. It’s cold and misty here, the air smells from the contamination in the water and although there is nobody around for miles there are plenty of souls for company. The hotel stands as a beautifully macabre landmark for lovers of classic architecture, urban exploration, and suicides. A favourite jumping spot, it is claimed
22 | Endeavour Magazine
to the building’s Gothic architecture and if they let go they will be sucked down into Hell for their taking of a life. This way, they are forced to wander around the haunted hotel locked in their eternal misery and unable to escape. Granted, the Hotel del Salto has now been renovated, however a local to the area has confirmed that at night you can hear the last sounds the people made as they fell to their deaths. Most of them are screaming in fear but for one voice, that of a woman who is laughing.
Maribel Caves Hotel, Wisconsin, United States
the spirits of those wanting to claim their
It may not be a functioning hotel any
own lives rose only high enough to clutch
longer, but the Maribel Caves Hotel in
Wisconsin, USA is still known for attracting guests who illegally camp out within its crumbling walls.
Why?
Maybe
it
has
Maids Head Hotel, Norwich, United Kingdom
There is this resident ghost, the Lavender Lady who used to be a maid in MH and now when she appears you can smell lavender. Her appearances most correspond with refurbishments, which she doesn’t seem to like
something to do with its famous
In one of the oldest cities
In the court yard there is the Maids Head Bar and a little room
nickname -- Hotel Hell. There’s
in Britain, having the oldest
next to it, where a little girl is trapped. The story says she arrived to
plenty to dispute when it comes
pub in Britain (The Adam and
the hotel and jumped out of a carriage, ran behind it and the horses
to the hotel’s history, but even
Eve), a freaking Puppet Theatre
moved backwards and she was crushed and now she can’t get out of
the most skeptical visitor would
populated
the snug.
have to admit that it’s one of the
homemade puppets based in
scarier places you could visit.
St James Church, a medieval
by
thousands
of
IN the bar itself is an older gentleman and on the stairs that go to Regency Suite there sometimes appears a monk.
down
church with a graveyard filled
Ghost hunters have visited a couple of times but claimed that
three times on the same date in
with the lying dead who have no
although there is a presence that they weren’t evil, however that is
different years and glows under
gravestones because they have
not what the guests believe. And some of the discoveries at the Maids
a full moon. Skeletal remains
been removed and piled against
Head scream otherwise. Twenty five years ago there was a family
are still on the unreachable
the wall.
found in a wall. A mother, father, child and a dog just straight up buried
third floor. A hotel guest killed
surprising at all the Maids Head
everyone in the hotel before
Hotel is haunted, it’s just that
Aga Rychel, an ex-employee of the Maids Head who worked on
taking his own life and black
with so much to choose from
reception quoted, “I had a lady that arrived and went to the room
witches performed a ceremony
you’d expect there to be more.
7 (Queen Elizabeth Suite) and three minutes later she came back
The
hotel
burned
Ultimately it’s not
inside a wall.
that opened a portal to hell in the
The most haunted room
running and crying saying there is something in the room. She was so
front yard fountain. The hellish
is the Queen Elizabeth suite,
scared she couldn’t breathe and she left her bag and everything. We
demons haunted the town of
Number 7 then there is room
had to go and get it,”
Maribel until a white witch
313 where a lot of people have
She continues, “Some people say that when they were staying in
sealed the portal.
said it suddenly gets cold round
the Cathedral Suite in the middle of the night there was someone
Oh, and it served as a hideout
that area. Guests have left the
coming in, a maid who started to do a bed, afterwards she just left
for gangster Al Capone during
hotel in the middle of the night
which was quite harmless, but I was once in the restaurant with my
prohibition and underground
as they were so scared and when
friend round 11pm and we were setting up for breakfast. She was
passageways still exist although
reception entered the room it
behind the waiters station and I was about ten metres away from
only a handful have been located.
was as if there was a blizzard.
her doing the tables when she went “Ouch, why did you do that?!” Of
On the first floor there is
course she turned and found that I was too far away from her and it
regarding
a minstrel kitchen where staff
would have been impossible for me to get there. She said something
the legitimacy of the above
have claimed they get a sense of
had pulled her hair when she was bending and sorting out napkins.”
claims, however all that means
dread whenever they go inside.
squat when you’re lying in your
Sensing that something hostile
sleeping bag and think you
was there.
If you Google it you’ll find a lot
of
conjecture
can hear something moving underneath you.
Endeavour Magazine | 23
ROTHCO 0027 11 970 1930 WWW.ROTHCO.CO.ZA
24 | Endeavour Magazine
EVEN Brilliant CAN BE BETTER WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL
“Edwin Roth & Co (Pty) Ltd was founded in 1952 by Mr Edwin Roth and the company began by selling and servicing George Fischer copy lathes from Switzerland. In the 1960’s they diversified, and marketed CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) equipment from Japan representing Fanuc, Makino, and Okuma & Howa,” Rob Wyche, Managing Director of Rothco explains, “From this time onwards, we expanded and started importing many specialised CNC machinery from Europe, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, representing many well-known agencies.” Endeavour Magazine | 25
ROTHCO
Today, Rothco has developed more into a value added solutions based company, offering their clients the following specialized divisions: DESIGN, PROTOTYPE, MACHINE, TOOLING & SERVICE and are involved in almost every market, from concept designing to final product production.
“T
hrough our passion for innovation, we are able to
Rothco Design, which provides CAD and CAM software to take
reinvent our clients’ production processes, allowing
projects from concept to final proof-ready digital model design
them to benefit from technological or workflow
and verified machining programs, as well as professional training
improvements without them needing to keep their finger endlessly on the pulse of industry developments, secure in the knowledge that we are here to do it for them.” Robert adds. AT THE HEART OF THE COMPANY is a mission to deliver
programs. Rothco PROTOTYPE, specializing in Supply and installation of 3D print solutions for low cost, rapid prototypes, concept models and production parts ready to be applied in the field
innovative and diversified solutions that add value to the
Rothco MACHINE, a range of comprehensive machining solutions
manufacturing industry at large. Rothco’s personalized solutions
from consultation to increasing low or high volume production
have a triple focus: people, productivity and profit. A diverse range of
machining for the client’s simple to CNC manufacturing process,
tools and services are handled by the following specialized divisions
to the configuring of machines and design of specific machining
including:
solutions, as well as installation, training, inspections and calibration, all delivered with cutting-edge knowledge Rothco TOOLING, personalized and flexible tooling solutions, value added cutting fluids, spares and accessories for the manufacturing process and Rothco SERVICE, a dedicated contract servicing, technical back-up and training support to keep the client operating effectively STAFF, influencing the key functionality of any company the employees are the lifeblood. For Rothco staff training and development are placed as a priority. “Our employees maintain the same standards that our suppliers strive for,” Rob explains, “And attend regular courses together to ensure this.”
26 | Endeavour Magazine
In house and on the job training form a significant part of Rothco’s training program and they encourage their staff to identify courses that can benefit their personal growth and the growth of the company in general. “Staff development both professionally and personally is extremely important to us,” Rob adds, “As without developing our staff we cannot develop our company.” “CLIENT RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT is very important to us and we recently rebranded our company after sending out a customer market survey which identified what are clients expected from us and where they expect us to be in the future,” Rob tell us, “We employed a CRM co-ordinator whose main focus is to develop and maintain customer relationships, specifically in the service department. This has brought us great value in shortening the gap between customers and service and providing a valuable communications means for us.” “Through this implementation,” he adds, “We now can keep a record of customer compliments and complaints and proactively maintain better relationships and deliver innovative and diversified solutions to our customers.” AFTERSALES is the determining factor of how far a company is willing to go for their client. It is the extra attention that solidifies a relationship and Rob had a lot to say about this particular area of his business:
Endeavour Magazine | 27
ROTHCO
“Rothco’s after-sales is not
With a track record of
an integrated ISO 14001:2004/OHSAS 18001:2007 and ISO
just an add-on, but an essential
reliability and a high service
9001:2008 Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality Management
part of our relationship with our
ethic, Rothco’s teams are ideally
System, which we believe will keep us ahead of the competition,”
customers,” he stipulates, “Since
qualified to inject fresh ideas
our establishment the company’s
through
mechanical,
enjoying sharing the brand of ROTHCO with our valued customers.
principle was and still is product
electrical or electronic services.
In January 2014 our staff will attend Blaser Swisslube training with
support. Continuing with this
The high quality OEM spare
expansion plans to incorporate a mini Blaser Swisslube laboratory
successful tradition we regard
parts coupled with these efficient
within Rothco. Some more training that will take place in 2014 includes
this as one of the most important
processes assist the client’s
working with Stratasys 3D Printers to increase our existing Certified
factors in our business and
maintenance
refurbishing
Service Engineers to support our 3D Printer market,” which is well
endure to improve on our service
of
machinery,
ahead of their industry, “We are also establishing and implementing an
levels.”
including spindle rebuilds.
Rothco Service concentrates on
providing
high
quality
their
their
or
existing
integrated SHEQ System for our plans for future improvements and
“From the decommissioning of
old
machinery
“FOR THE FUTURE, due to our recent re-branding, we are
to
the
relocation
or
most importantly our new customer projects and potential upcoming projects which are the most exciting developments happening in
support, training and technical
painstaking
know-how. Whether for routine
meticulous reconfiguration of
“These points get us excited and bring out the very best of our
maintenance or in emergencies
existing systems,” Rob promises,
abilities; they will motivate us to go beyond a job well done to a place
their reliable teams are on stand-
“There is very little that our
where Even Brilliant can be Better. We are continuously investing in
by to ensure that the production
expert teams are not equipped to
Rothco and cannot put a value to continued improvement. We are a
processes keep functioning with
handle.”
61 year old company. We would not be here if we did not invest in our
minimum disruption and at the highest possible efficiency.
28 | Endeavour Magazine
“We are also in the process of establishing and implementing
Rothco now.”
people or our products.” He concludes.
Endeavour Magazine | 29
EKURHULENI MUNICIPALITY 0027 11 999 0094 WWW.EKURHULENI.GOV.ZA
30 | Endeavour Magazine
A MAJOR PART OF THE FUTURE WRITTEN BY DONNIE RUST
“An Aerotropolis is a planned and coordinated multi-modal freight and transportation complex that provides efficient, cost effective, sustainable and inter-modal connectivity to a defined region of economic significance centered around a major airport,” Executive Mayor Mondli Gungubele opens up, “Speed and agility are the basis of the existence of an Aerotropolis which enables connectivity of the four “Rs”, namely Roads, Rivers, Railroads and Runways.”
Endeavour Magazine | 31
EKURHULENI MUNICIPALITY
The City of Ekurhuleni is best suited to develop as an Aerotropolis since it has connectivity of three Rs (road, railroad, runway) and through the envisaged Durban-Free State-Gauteng corridor they will have improved connectivity with the “Rivers” through their sea port.
A
n Aerotropolis is also
and business partners can offer very fast and tightly interconnected
a new urban format
business opportunities all around the world. Many of these business
that
activities are much more dependent on far-distant suppliers or
is
currently
developing around many large airports
where
the
customers than on those in the local area.
layout,
A strategic decision was taken when deciding that the Aerotropolis
infrastructures and economy are
concept would be pursued and developed further and implemented
all arranged around an airport as
in order to leverage the economic benefits of having the busiest
their central element. This means
airport on the African continent, OR Tambo International Airport,
that their suppliers, customers
located within its boundaries. It is important to note that in the South African context, airports are a national competence, whereas globally, airports are often managed by the cities within which they reside. “The City of Ekurhuleni has taken on this development as the anchor for the project and will champion related planning, together with various stakeholders that are critical for the success of the project,” Executive Mayor Mondli Gungubele tells us.
A Major Part Of The Future A major key to the municipalities’ 2055 growth and development strategy is known to be the Aerotropolis masterplan. In fact, the City has acknowledged that the Aerotropolis has developed in some form around OR Tambo International Airport, although haphazardly and in an uncoordinated manner. It is important to get the planning for this type of development right, since it will influence long term outcomes and the future economy in the City of Ekurhuleni. Proper planning will influence the competitiveness of the economy and how it attracts investors and investment to create jobs and reduce poverty, which is the ultimate goal of this development. “It is on this basis that as a city we have put in place strategic land parcels so that we know exactly which land is available for what, in line with the mandate of the Aeroropolis,” Executive Mayor Mondli Gungubele expands, “At the end of the day, the success of bringing relevant investors to the city hinges on how well we plan the land use 32 | Endeavour Magazine
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issues – so that at the end of the day business is situated in an area
2 which looks at the movement of freight and the development of
where it will thrive and therefore continue to play a meaningful role
the corridor between Kwazulu-Natal, the Free State and Gauteng
in our economy.”
Provinces. Part of the Master planning process will produce modelling of the expected jobs to be created over the period of development.
According To Plan
Another key factor to take into account is the skills development
“Currently at the conceptual and design stage, The Strategic
angle particularly through initiatives like the Barlow world academy,
Roadmap provides the City of Ekurhuleni and the Gauteng Province
the Transnet rail academy and the Denel aviation academy. These
with an outline of the Aerotropolis development model and
kinds of initiatives will be crucial to ensure that the Aerotropolis has
requirements for a successful Aerotropolis,” Executive Mayor Mondli
a significant skills pool to tap into and that the issue of scare skills
Gungubele explains, “This includes consideration requirements for
receives some attention.
infrastructure and facility plans, business plans and implementation plan guidelines for transforming OR Tambo International Airport and the region into a world-class Aerotropolis.” Based on the Strategic Roadmap a process of developing a Masterplan was initiated and is currently underway. The development
Behind The Scenes In a time of financial economic crisis, it is a telling fact that the project is showing good signs for economic growth within the area and for sustainable growth for the future.
of the Ekurhuleni Aerotropolis is a long term vision spanning up
“Research in international Aerotropolis show a favourable job-
to thirty years from now. However, the building blocks for the
spin off ratio for jobs created at the airport related to those indirectly
Aerotropolis have to be laid as early on in the project as possible. Over
linked to the airport,” Executive Mayor Mondli Gungubele tell us, “The
the next eighteen months, the City will undertake an exciting process
global positioning of the OR Tambo International Airport and the
of developing the Master Plan that will provide details for specific
number of destinations it serves provides an indication of the airports
aspects required for the Aerotropolis development.
capacity and competitiveness compared to its counterparts on the
The Aerotropolis is part of the Strategic Integrated Projects (SIP)
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Endeavour Magazine | 35
EKURHULENI MUNICIPALITY
According to Airbus, the annual passenger growth rates to, from and within South Africa will grow at 6% which surpasses the rate for Africa (5.7%), and is well above the average for the world (4.8%).
city in its rightful place of leading cities of the world.” “Critical in all this is a strategic partnership between role players in the aviation industry like ACSA and the other airlines.”
Airlines operating in South Africa will need 183 new passenger aircraft, with an estimated value of $29bn and since 2000, South Africa has enjoyed 45% growth in air traffic.
A Final, Important Word “The Aerotropolis is not about Ekurhuleni only, but Gauteng as a whole and the nation. Its success will help us create jobs and
Positive Knock On Effects
fight poverty while at the same time improving the economy of the
The Aerotropolis Project is one of the flagship projects of the
country. It is therefore imperative that people, while looking at it as an
City of Ekurhuleni and enjoys the support of the Gauteng Provincial
Ekurhuleni programme, understand that its success relies on all South
Government. The project is certainly the City’s pride with hopes to
Africans pulling together to make South Africa’s first Aerotropolis a
harness the competitive advantage that resides with the O R Tambo
success. We have done a lot as a city to realize this project and we
International Airport and all related benefits that have arisen as a
expect it to be even more clear now that we have just appointed a
result of this asset.
company to assist with putting in place the master plan. Indeed this
“Actually,” Executive Mayor Mondli Gungubele stipulates, “It
will take time, but we have made it clear that we want immediate,
is rather unfortunate that it has taken us as a city so long to take
medium and long term plans in this regard. There are various other
advantage of the fact that this airport is in our space. The Ekurhuleni
projects that we will be undertaking in line with the Aerotropolis,
Aeorotropolis is anchored around one of the biggest international
among them is the Digital City, which we believe will be a key player
global airports, a facility that is viewed as Africa’s gateway to the world.
in our future plans especially if one considers the rate at which our
A national key point that handles millions of travellers every year, so,
IT is transforming society lately,” concludes Executive Mayor Mondli
it is very important that there is proper planning in everything we do
Gungubele.
so that at the end of the day we get a world class facility that takes our
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Endeavour Magazine | 37
MURZAH OIL COMPANY 00255 784 786 050 WWW.MURZAH.CO.TZ
38 | Endeavour Magazine
KEEPING IT REAL WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
Murzah Oil Mills Ltd is part of an association of companies that employ 3675 people and has created the backbone of an industry striving for economic growth and global respect from businesses and contemporaries. Since its inception in 1997, Murzah Oil Mills Limited has emerged as a leading industrial force in the edible oil and soaps sector manufacturing sectors. Specializing in production and extraction of oils, today they are looking at expansion throughout Africa and their General Manager Mr Lakshminarayana was on hand to discuss this.
Endeavour Magazine | 39
MURZAH OIL COMPANY
From the onset one of the things that stands out in the portfolio of Murzah Oil Mills Ltd’s capabilities is their attention to detail and the heavy investment they have made in technology, machinery and manpower to ensure the purity and standards of their products. Their approach to accomplishing this task is one that starts from the grass roots and works upwards.
“T
he facilities are equipped with the entire range of modern
A summary of the business activities at Murzah Oil Mills LTD
machines and technologies,” Mr. Kakshminarayana
reveals that core activities of the company revolves around two main
opens up, “And operated by the most well trained staff.”
principles of expansion and consolidation. The activity of growing the
This is the first time that Murzah Oil Mills Ltd is appearing
company either in terms of employees or facilities and ensuring that
within Endeavour Magazine, and to get our readers up to speed Mr.
everything is working to capacity for a period is one that proves effect
Kakshimarayana said the following: “The Company’s commercial
in preventing a stretching in resources.
Production of Vegetable Oil commenced in 1997 and has grown
“We produce Cooking Oil, Soap and Plastic Consumables,” Mr.
reliably since then, we actively engage 200 permanent employees
Kakshminarayana tells us, “With a production capacity of 200MT
including 70 of the most skilled ones in our industry. Over that we
of soap per day and 450MT of cooking oil per day. The cooking oil is
have 600 temporary employees who provide invaluable services to us
poised to be doubled once the new Expansion Unit is operative.”
when we need it.”
Crude Oil is Refined, Bleached and Deodorised in order to get the Finished Goods such as the Korie Brand (for Palm Oil), Korie Gold for Soya Oil and Sundrop Brand for Sun Flower Oil which are available in a range of measurements and machine packed in custom designed packaging to best engage the consumer. Murzah Oil has two major edible oil Refineries with a total capacity of 300 tons per day, which is equivalent to 108,000 MT per annum. Because the company aims to produce only the best products in the current market, the technology and the machinery being used were obtained and manufactured by the world’s leading manufacturer of edible oil machines. “It is one of the most modern edible oil refineries in the world, with state of the art technology,” he tells us. In one of their early expansions, the company instigated the creation in 1998 of a Dewaxing plant to process a variety of domestic vegetable crude oils this plant is powered in part by the combined
40 | Endeavour Magazine
Endeavour Magazine | 41
MURZAH OIL COMPANY
technological expertise from Alfa Laval, an Indian firm, and supported by reliable technology from Tetra Laval of Sweden.
decisions taken collectively.” Murzah Oil Mills Ltd also enjoys extremely happy industrial
Their sunflower seed extraction plant, which produces an
environment, “New work force is added once a while to our existing
equivalent of 30,000 Ton per annum began operations in early 2003,
large base so much so that there is a nice combination of young and
this was a direct move to ensure standards and quality provided their
experienced hands.”
clients with the best products. Since then their sunflower products
On the other side of the coin, where we find the customers, Murzah
have been found in regions such as Singida , Dodoma and Arusha and
Oil Mills are dedicated to a transparent accountability, “All Products
their leading sunflower oil brand, Sun Drop has become a household
comply with Tanzania Bureau of Standards,” Mr. Kakshminarayana
name.
tells us, “We keep reviewing our packing material and processes in
Through their growth, one of the key developments was the capacity expansion of the fractionation plant from a limit of 100MT per day to 300MT per day. “When this plant was installed, it gave us an opportunity to process the basic raw material of Crude Palm Oil, which would have
keeping with the feed-back from our customers. “ Apart from capturing the market in the country and catapulting itself into becoming the leading manufacturer in Tanzania, Murzah Oils have started exporting its products to neighbouring countries like Malawi, Zambia, Congo, Rwanda and Mozambique.
been otherwise difficult,” Mr. Kakshminarayana explains, “Because
“Because of the excellent quality of our products, it makes it
crude palm oil cannot be processed without specialized equipment.
easier to turn them into preferred choice of the people wherever it is
The Fractionation Plant is also used to separate liquid fraction from
marketed, while Murzah Oil Mills continues to poise itself for further
solid fraction of the oil.”
growth in the near future.”
“Work Force plays vital role in any Organisation,” Mr.
“We have very satisfied Customers thanks to equally co-operative
Kakshminarayana says, “Murzah believes in participative Management
Suppliers and Sub-Contractors and Dealers,” he tells us, “Our Group
where the Directors interact closely with the Workers in majority of
Products ably supported by Trading Company from within the Group
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42 | Endeavour Magazine
help the process of ensuring
while
proper demand-supply chains. “
identified by the Government,
“We inaugurate expanding Capacity
are our the of
expecting
on
many
occasions
to
for example the World Standards
Unit
Day etc., advertisements are
Production
given in the Newspapers in
new Cooking
Oil
recognition of the importance of
considerably, very soon,” he
such occasions and bringing the
explains, “We also propose to
Public’s attention towards the
establish a separate Plant for
same.
manufacture of more quantities of Soap.”
IN conclusion, one of the defining factors of Murzah Oil
The Group also takes part in
Mills is their focus on establishing
philanthropic activities including
what is important and supporting
Education,
it fully.
Religious
places,
Donations to the Destitute and
“Working
together
as
a
the Disabled. Prayer Meetings
team is the only way to achieve
are held on most Fridays within
greatness,” Mr. Kakshminarayana
the Factory Premises when
concludes.
poor-feeding is done. Donations are also offered for conducting cultural or community functions
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Telefax: +91 141 4015911 | Customer Care: +91 93525 85911 Endeavour Magazine | 43
ZAMBEEF RETAIL 00260 977 999 003 WWW.ZAMBEEF.CO.ZM
44 | Endeavour Magazine
Zambeef is the largest beef producer in Zambia and the company also provides feedlot services, manufactures milk, chicken, eggs, leather and shoes. Within their portfolio they operate a fast food restaurant chain and a trucking company, including a fleet of refrigerated vehicles. Zambeef grows crops, including wheat, maize, lucerne and soybeans, grows feed, and operates feed processing plants around Zambia.
BEEF RETAIL IS WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
Alive And Kicking Endeavour Magazine | 45
ZAMBEEF RETAIL
Zambeef Products PLC is one of the largest integrated agri-businesses in Zambia. The Group is principally involved in the production, processing, distribution and retailing of beef, chicken, pork, milk, dairy products, eggs, edible oils, stock feed, flour and bread. The Group also has large row cropping operations, principally maize, soya beans and wheat, with approximately 8,350 Ha of row crops under irrigation and 8,650 Ha of rain-fed/dry-land crops available for planting each year.
Z
ambeef was incorporated in 1994, with limited capital,
“It marked the first time a company from the southern African
employing 60 staff, slaughtering 180 cattle per month
country had listed internationally and was one of the few overseas
in a small, rented abattoir and delivering meat in a Land
African IPO’s from outside the natural resources sector” - The Banker
Rover for selling through a pair of rented butcheries. From humble
Magazine..
beginnings as an incorporated small scale start-up business, they
Principally involved in the production, processing, distribution
have grown through both organic growth and acquisitions to become
and retailing of beef, chicken, pork, milk, dairy products, eggs, edible
one of Zambia’s largest agri-businesses with annual revenues of
oils, stock feed, flour and bread, the Group also has a large cereal row
approximately US$255 million and an employee number of over five
cropping operation and is in the process of rolling out a West Africa
and half thousand staff.
expansion and a palm project.
In June 2011, Zambeef successfully concluded its dual listing on
Ultimately, Zambeef’s strategy is to be the most affordably
the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange.
accessible quality protein provider in the region and to increase the
The Banker magazine named Zambeef’s US$55 million listing in
efficient capacity of its primary production facilities.
London and rights issue in Zambia as 2012’s ‘Deal of the Year’ in
To achieve this, they continue to pursue a vertically integrated
Africa for equities. The magazine commended the landmark listing for
business model, from primary production to processing, distribution
Zambeef, saying the company’s initial public offering (IPO) on London’s
to retailing the finished products to the customer through their own
Alternative Investments Market in June 2011 was significant in many
extensive retail network. This ensures a great addition to value and
ways.
margin capture throughout the value chain.
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ZAMBEEF RETAIL
Zambeef has one of the largest irrigated row cropping operations
pork product retail industry and operates one of the largest piggeries,
in Zambia, with 8,350 Ha for irrigated and 8,650 Ha for rain fed,
abattoirs and pork processing plants in Zambia. With a capability of
developed land available for planting each year. Crop production is
slaughtering up to one hundred thousand pigs per year.
focused primarily on soya beans during summer cropping season and
Milk and dairy products are an obvious product that Zambeef
wheat during winter cropping season; with a capacity to produce over
have been able to capitalize on, with their own dairy farm and almost
100,000 tons of cereal grains per annum. The group also has storage
two thousand heads of cattle, they produce four million litres of milk
capacity of over 115,000 tons.
a year. This milk is pasteurised and homogenised in a modern milk
As their name suggests, Zambeef is one of the largest suppliers of beef in Zambia, with a capacity to slaughter 120,00 cattle per annum.
processing plant and Zambeef have produced many favourites such as drinking yoghurt, cheese, butter and milk based juices.
They are also one of the largest feed lotters of quality beef in Zambia,
In 2010, Zambeef commissioned a stock feed plant as part of a
with a capacity to feedlot 24,000 grain-fed cattle p.a. Zambeef
plan to increase its production of this product, initially to cater for its
currently runs eight abattoirs and three feedlots located throughout
internal livestock divisions and with a long term vision to be one of the
Zambia.
leading stock feed suppliers in Zambia. Currently, the plant operates
IN addition to the beef products, Zambeef is one of the largest
at a full capacity of seven thousand tons per month, adding value to
chicken and egg producers in the county processing over five million
the protein by product of one of their subsidiaries Zamanita, who are
chickens and forty million eggs per annum. This has warranted
leaders in the edible oils sector.
significant investments into new layer and broiler houses planned for 2014 as well as a new chicken abattoir. Through Masterpork LTD, Zambeef has a strong foothold on the
48 | Endeavour Magazine
The strength of the company originates in the strength and direction of their retail sector,The vast majority of Zambeef’s food products are retailed directly to the end consumer through Zambeef’s
extensive
retail
network.
In
trucking fleets in Zambia and has
fact, Zambeef has one of the
its own workshop to service and
leading distribution and retail
maintain its vehicle fleet.
footprints in Zambia, which
2014 is looking to be a busy
currently consists of 91 retail
year for Zambeef, as the group
outlets, 3 wholesale centres, 6
are in the process of rolling
fast food outlets and 20 Shoprite
out its West Africa expansion
butcheries.
in Nigeria and Ghana, as well
The three wholesale centres
as developing a palm project in
were originated in 2011 in order
Zambia. Further investment is
to attract the large informal and
planned for 2014 to improve
commercial sector in Zambia and
the efficiencies and capacity of
they have continued to invest
the stock feed processes as well
and upgrade existing stores as
as the new ruminant plant to
well as opening new retail outlets
support their edible oils sector.
every
year.
Additionally,
to
support the convoluted network of activities they operate one of the largest transport and
Endeavour Magazine | 49
CARIB GLASSWORKS 00186 866 222 31 WWW.ANSAMCAL.COM
50 | Endeavour Magazine
SUCCESS IS Crystal CLEAR WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
One of the ANSA McAl Group’s stock of companies Carib Glassworks was founded in 1947 as an answer to a need in the market and have since found firm footing within the country as one of the leading manufacturers and producers of glass. “We have always focused on being the premium glass package provider in the region,” managing director, David Hadeed tells us, “We are also present in Caricom and the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Puerto Rico.”
Endeavour Magazine | 51
CARIB GLASSWORKS
From the onset the company enjoyed quick growth and rapid development, becoming a leading and innovative producer of glass packaging in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Located in Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies they offer a wide range of standard and customized glass packaging that meets International Quality and Environmental standards suitable for food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, beer, wine and spirits.
“C
arib Glassworks is focussed on productivity, we have
coatings (as with cans or plastic) to preserve the contents which it
two furnaces and six manufacturing lines and a specific
protects. This is the reason why outside of the food and beverage
business to business model that works 100% with
industry even the medical and scientific community make use of
direct distribution,” David says. Bottles are still one of the preferred methods of packaging products. Manufacturers, of all types, like glass because it is a superb barrier, needing no artificial additives (as with cardboard) or internal
glass. Inert and taint-free, glass does not contaminate food or drink while protecting them from moisture, aroma and gaseous escape or penetration. “It’s also shape-versatile,” David adds, “Bottles come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes and colours that enhance a product’s image giving it a ‘classy’ look. Some manufacturers use the shape of a bottle to give their product a unique identity e.g the distinctive Coca Cola Trademark Bottle and Trinidad’s own Solo Apple J Bottles.” Carib Glassworks manufacturers glass containers for the food, beverage, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Staff As one of the ANSA Mcal Group companies Carib Glassworks strictly adheres to the standards and procedures of their parent company. The ANSA McAL Group of Companies is a local company headquartered in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago and has been doing business since 1881, listed on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange it is one of the largest conglomerates in the Caribbean with an asset base of TT$11.3 billion and one of the largest employers with over 6000 employees across it’s companies. “Of that number three hundred and fifty people work with Carib Glassworks, and each employee undergoes a rigorous, industry specific, training plan. This is needed due to the unique technical skills needed for glass manufacturing,” David expands, “Individual development for our staff is very important to our business and their personal and career development Have always been a big part of our growth plans. This will be no different in 2014 and beyond. The aim is to build a performance driven organization.”
The Clients A great deal of competition has sprouted up which is expected in a company that has worked at such a high standard for so many 52 | Endeavour Magazine
decades. While Carib Glassworks, and ANSA McAL have one of the most secure foundations on the islands they have place a great deal of attention to ensure that they remain in firm lead of their sector. David explains how this begins with the customers:
New Developments For 2013/2014 And Beyond
loss to quality, thus there is no place for glass in the trash bin. We are promoting greater awareness for the importance of
“As part of our on-going effort to ensure our customers are
Carib Glassworks has been
glass recycling and to encourage
satisfied we have monthly business reviews across the board and
recycling glass since its inception
the public to recycle used glass
deploy a biannual online survey to measure our customer satisfaction,”
in 1948. CGL obtains its cullet
by depositing them in glass
he attests, “This is critical since the market is very competitive and
(the raw material term for used
recycling bins. This will in turn
this is a key factor for customer retention.”
glass) from landfills and dumps,
remove excess burdens from
bars, hotels, schools, community
our landfills and dumps and
activities and encourage monthly market visits for export customers
groups
residential
will preserve and conserve the
and weekly customer visits for domestic customers. We’ve also
associations, private and public
earth’s natural resources like
created an active Innovation team in charge of generating new
companies and individuals. In
sand and limestone.
projects annually.”
addition to these local sources,
He continues, “Also, to stay competitive, we analyse market
Suppliers “It’s also crucial to work with the right businesses,” he continues, “In fact the choice of companies to supply a business will always influence the overall success. For example Mijnmaatschappij Curaçao B.V have supplied us our limestone sand, our most important material for over a decade.” Relationships
like
this
between
Carib
Glassworks
and
Mijnmaatschappij Curaçao B.V are quintessential to the overall business approach of this company who look at relationship building as one of the key factors to longevity.
Pure & Clear
and
Carib
Glass
encourages
cullet is also imported from
communities to get involved in
regional
the recycling programme.
and
extra
regional
sources. Glass
“We packaging
has
have
created
a
an
nationwide recycling program as
advantage over other types
a means to instigate change from
of packaging material as far as
the source.” David says.
the impact on the environment is concerned (glass is a 100% recyclable). All glass containers melted and reshaped will make new containers without any
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Newport, Curaçao Telephone: + 599(9) 7673400 | Mobile: +599(9) 5131884 info@curacaocalcium.com | www.curacaocalcium.com
Endeavour Magazine | 53
BINDURA HAULAGE 00263 621 211-5 WWW.BH.CO.ZW
54 | Endeavour Magazine
KEEPING
WRITTEN BY KATIE RICHARDSON
Trade MOVING
Endeavour Magazine talks to leading haulage company Bindura Haulage about keeping abreast of the competition, tackling sector concerns and its role in effective industry.
Endeavour Magazine | 55
BINDURA HAULAGE
Keeping business moving in a country whose economic recovery is extremely delicate is no mean feat. Having been blighted by allegations of industrial corruption and human rights abuses for decades, Zimbabwe is taking unaided steps on its international trading feet, and haulage companies in the country are playing a crucial part in removing disincentives and adding accountability.
F
ounded in 1967, Bindura Haulage has a very established
agricultural commodities, general cargo and specialised loads.
distribution chain in Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries,
A full 24-hour cargo tracking service supports our fleets to all
thanks to a long history in the provision of services to local
destinations and we also offer border cleaning services at the Messina/
mining and agricultural sectors. After a heavy decline in agricultural
Beit-bridge border with key partners in Chirundu, Nyamapanda and
output in the early noughties, the company shifted its focus to
Mutare.” says Mann.
concentrate primarily on the cross border market, moving various commodities and cargo within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. With its HQ originally in Bindura Town
Bumps in the road
in the Mashonaland province, the company relocated to Zimbabwe’s
Adequate transport infrastructure and transport services are
capital Harare in 2005 to concentrate on the growing cross-border
essential for the functioning of a nation’s economic, social and
market, with countries including Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and
cultural life and the haulage industry is not without its problems.
South Africa.
There is an increasing challenge posed by an ever-deteriorating
“Our general fleet is comprised of cab-over and conventional
road infrastructure in the region and Zimbabwean roads are classed
horses pulling flat-decks, links, super links, tippers and step decks
as some of the most dangerous in the world. The Zimbabwe Traffic
offering a number of options to a customer, while our abnormal fleet
Safety Council reported at least 416 people died while another
has various low-bed combinations with capacities of up to 70 tonnes,”
2463 people were injured in more than 8700 accidents recorded
says group managing director Richard Mann. “Through good service,
countrywide between January and March this year, due in part to
sound business practices and strong leadership we have built a wide
the country’s lack of passing lanes, shoulders, road reflectors and
network of satisfied return customers.”
breakdown lanes and a limited roadside emergency services. On the
Bindura Haulage offers a wide variety of services allowing it to
positive there are major improvements happening and resurfacing of
cover a significant number of key international destinations. It makes
the roads on the East-West corridor is well underway, on the success
strong use of upgraded technology to improve on service levels,
of this – hopefully funding will provide for the upgrading of the North-
while allowing control over larger volumes of moving stock. This
South corridor in the near future.
has resulted in a leading co-ordinated and supported service chain
The haulage industry also happens to be one of the more
providing mining supplies, plant and equipment as well as mined and
vulnerable to the Zimbabwean HIV/AIDS pandemic due to mobility
56 | Endeavour Magazine
Endeavour Magazine | 57
BINDURA HAULAGE
and the inherent characteristics of the working conditions. Mann
to perform their work efficiently
endeavours to hold up the highest training standards for his staff to
and safely.”
To counteract these socioeconomic
hurdles,
Bindura
cope in these very challenging conditions. “We have around 200 full
Mann also looks to invest
Haulage has a competitive ace
time staff working for us, and each driver is required to be compliant
in his staff for the future of the
up its sleeve. A number of new
and provide on-demand proof for all health and safety regulations and
company: “Bursaries are also
and exciting developments on
licensing in each region we operate in,” he says. “It is of the utmost
available for those who request
the horizon include a continued
priority for the company to adequately empower and equip a driver
relevant study in fields that will
emphasis on expanding into and
to drive a loaded vehicle of around 56 tons and a lot of effort is put in
have a positive impact in the
growing the broking business –
place to ensure this.”
business.”
a market which has had a 350%
The company also expects compliance with all safety aspects including quality servicing and repairs of all trucks and trailers and maintains an adequate support chain along each of their supply routes including safe parking areas, border support teams and strategic workshop depots.
growth over the past 12 months. Mann is confident that without
Different Approaches The
haulage
the need for capital expenditure (CAPEX) industry
and
only
minor
is
additional expenditure required
“Our drivers are put through training programmes, and our
predominantly private owned
on resources is nothing short of
technical staff like those in our workshops will all have the required
– with the added pressure from
a cash-flow positive in the capital
certifications to perform their respective functions within their specific
the unstable economy, high levels
intensive
departments and skills shortages are identified and provisions made
of unemployment and tentative
is a natural progression from
for training in these areas,” says Mann. “Strict adherence to health and
investor sentiment – there is a
a successful marketing drive
safety protocol is installed and this includes regular training of staff
limited availability of affordable
where larger volume contracts
on the correct use of tools, materials and procedures to allow them
vehicle financing.
have been secured and the
58 | Endeavour Magazine
industry.
“Broking
excess work outsourced,” he says.
After-sales and customer commitment is also a top priority. “With
In addition, the company is also implementing an integrated
seasonal business, after-sales service is often the pre-cursor to next
accounting and workshop ‘job-card module’ to enhance the reporting
season’s marketing strategy,” Mann stresses. “Plans that are in place
and information dissemination essential to improving the overall
to keep us abreast of the competition are, among others, securing
efficiencies at grass roots level: the workshop floor. “Leveraging off
contract work which ensures sub-contracted rates and an offensive
current contracts will enable us to increase the bottom line for the
approach to expense management and budget control.”
company,” Mann explains. “Enhancing the quality of the work done
Mann is also very enthusiastic about his working associations:
will improve overall efficiency and reduce undue expenditure. A fair
“We have an excellent management team who are able to build
amount of staff time has been invested in this as it engages a number
and enhance great relationships with customers and negotiate
of different departments, including workshops, stores & finance.
preferential transport rates.”
While there is a financial cost to this, it is far outweighed by the direct cost savings on efficiencies it will bring.”
While Zimbabwe still has a while to go to find economic stability within its borders, the importance of the haulage industry cannot be overemphasised. In-house promotion coupled with encouragement
Smooth Operation The personal touch is very important to Bindura Haulage and Mann makes it a priority to understand and identify with his clients in
of international trade at all levels, could result in a win-win situation for Bindura Haulage and its contemporaries to expand upon their business both at home and abroad.
order to deliver the best service possible. “There are daily updates on each load and clearing positioning to customers, as well as constant monitoring of customer interactions with various staff,” he says. “Other specific focuses include an immediate response to customer queries and an annual customer review.”
Endeavour Magazine | 59
ZB FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LIMITED 00263 4 751168 WWW.ZB.CO.ZW
60 | Endeavour Magazine
BANKING ON ZIMBABWE WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
ZB Financial Holdings Limited need little introduction as they have seen a great deal of changes take place in Zimbabwe, have overcome political, economic and cultural tides and have become one of the beacons of the country’s development. We spoke with CEO Ronald Mutandagayi regarding the company’s activities to shed some light on their success.
Endeavour Magazine | 61
ZB FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LIMITED
“The history of ZBFH begins in 1951 when the Netherlands Bank of South Africa opened a branch in Harare, known at the time as Salisbury. A second branch was opened in Bulawayo in the same year and by 1967 nine branches were operating countrywide,” Ron opens up, “In August 1967 it was sold to Netherlands Bank of Rhodesia Limited, as ZB Bank was then known and obtained a listing on the Rhodesia Stock Exchange. It was the first locally quoted commercial bank and also the first to provide the local public with the opportunity to participate in its ownership.”
Global Shopfitters Zimbabwe For the Perfect Fit
R
onald Mutandagayi, a charter accountant by profession, was appointed Group Chief Executive of ZBFH with effect from 1 June 2013 and previously held the position of Managing
Director of ZB Bank. He has been with the company through a number of changes, having joined the Group when it was known as Finhold Group as the Head of Finance and Risk in February 2004, and accepting the position of Managing Director of ZB Bank in September 2009. “Over the years ZBFH has maintained a steady growth through acquisitions of related companies as well as expansion of existing services,” he continues, “In 1972, the company changed its name from The Netherlands Bank of Rhodesia Limited to Rhodesia Banking Corporation Limited and then to Rhobank in 1979.” 1979, marked an important moment for the company as they
Contact us at: Stand 861, Soutter Road. New Ardbennie, Hre, P.O. Box CY 2322 Causeway, Hre. Tel/Fax: 665438, 661327, 666372 and 668947 13 Hanover Road, Workington, Hre, Tel/Fax: 662492, 663430, 663639. Email: glob@africaonline.co.zw 62 | Endeavour Magazine
acquired interest in the local insurance firm of brokers, Willis Corroon, now known as Alexander Forbes Zimbabwe and also the entire shareholding of Syfrets Trust and Executor Limited. Two years later, 1981, the Government of Zimbabwe acquired 61% shareholding and the company changed its name to Zimbabwe Banking Corporation Limited (Zimbank). “In 1989 Zimbabwe Financial Holdings Limited (FINHOLD) was formed to bring all subsidiaries and associate companies under one Holding company which also paved the way for the Group to explore
other profitable business activities previously not possible due to
external training and developmental programs carried out regionally,
restrictions on investments activities placed on the bank in terms of
locally and internationally for selected members.
the Banking Act,” Ronald tells us, “In 2006 Finhold rebranded to ZB
“Staff development and training is vital in our company as it
Financial Holdings Limited and in 2007 the group acquired majority
motivates individuals, increases knowledge, and fosters brand
shareholding in Intermarket Holding Limited, a financial services
engagement required in enhancing loyalty,” he continues, “This
group that was involved in the provision of mortgage lending, banking,
ultimately leads to the delivery of exceptional customer service
life assurance and re-insurance services,”
required for customer retention, acquisition and business growth.”
He continues, “In the same year ZBFH acquired a shareholding in Cell Insurance Company, a short term insurance service provider.” In 2008 the company formed ZB Securities, a stock broking
What Does ZBFH Offer Clients? ZBFH provide one of the most diverse ranges of financial services
company that is active on the stock Exchange and The Group has
including all of the primary mainstays like banking, insurance,
therefore acquired a number of subsidiaries which have allowed it
reinsurance, asset management, securities, transfer secretarial
to offer a diverse range of financial solutions. ZBFH has no physical
services and custodial services. It also boasts one of the widest
presence in foreign markets; however, through its subsidiaries it
branch networks in the country with the commercial bank operating
participates in the regional and international markets.
50 branches and a strong presence in the informal markets.
The People Of ZBFH
“We engage our customers through customer surveys and we take the results seriously to implement findings,” Ron tells us, clearly
“The Group’s staff complement is 1600,” Ron tells us, “And we have
very animated in this particular area, “We also have a Customer
invested in a Group Training Centre in an ongoing effort to improve
Service Charter and the ZB Way of doing things that ensure that we
staff skills and knowledge.”
strive to always be customer centric.”
Besides internally the Group Training Centre also facilitates
It is very important for ZBFH that they gain repeat business from
Endeavour Magazine | 63
ZB FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LIMITED
the same customers who will in turn act as ambassadors for new
drive to invest in that new
an easy and fast way of doing
business, Ronald tells us while explain the importance of activities
technology.
business
occurring post sales.
with
ZB
Financial
“We offer mobile banking,
Holdings. As a group technology
“After sales service also ensures that we listen to our customers
internet banking and continue
reduces turn around on certain
for what they want and in doing so we are able to modify, innovate
to explore other products and
processes
and adapt products and services that are relevant and value adding,”
services in line with technological
customer service and efficiency
he adds, “We know that a satisfied customer experience enhances our
advancements,”
within the system.
brand, builds brand loyalty and brand equity and ultimately results in
us, “Focus is also in providing
“It will also ensure that ZBFH
business growth and profit. Therefore customer tracking is critical.”
affordable products and services
plays in the Global arena as well
and technology will allow us to
and we will be able to reach and
do so.”
offer online and efficient services
Quality and the highest level of satisfaction is the best way to stay ahead of the competition, and ZBFH’s strategy is to give their
he
assures
and
enhances
customers just that, an exceptional service and a value that exceeds
ZBFH has and continues to
to anyone and particularly the
expectations. “As they share with others their experiences we have
invest in the best human and
Zimbabweans all over the world
an upper hand because service is a key pillar that can differentiate us
technical resources to ensure
who want to invest back home,”
from the rest of the market players,” Ron says.
that they deliver and keep up with
Ron wraps up.
the trends. This is why they have
To The Future
an established Group training
The current focus is on riding on technology driven innovation for growth. The market now wants convenience and this is available through the different technological platforms and there is a major
Proud
Centre and a fully-fledged team of IT experts. This will give customers
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Endeavour Magazine | 65
INTERTEK 00 27 31 274 8000 WWW.INTERTEK.COM
66 | Endeavour Magazine
FOCUSED ON IMPROVING CUSTOMERS’ PRODUCTS & PROCESSES WRITTEN BY JESS SHANAHAN
Intertek specialises in third party testing, inspection and certification across a huge range of industries worldwide. The business sets itself apart from competitors by providing true dedication to each and every customer. Intertek is currently expanding the work it does across the world, particularly in Africa. Endeavour Magazine | 67
INTERTEK
The history of the company is very interesting as it has its roots in a number of businesses from the 1880s and onwards. In 1885 Caleb Brett formed a marine cargo surveying business which offered independent testing of ship’s cargoes. Then, in 1888 Milton Hersey established a chemical testing facility. This pioneered the idea of independent testing laboratories.
I
n 1896, Thomas Edison founded the Lamp Testing Bureau of his Edison Electric Illuminating Company – a business that was the start of the world’s electric light industry.
These businesses, and others, form the roots of the present day
Intertek. We spoke to Intertek’s MD and Operations Director for South Africa, Mike Riby-Smith, who told us a bit about how the business has grown since its formation. He said: “Since the inception of the business, Intertek has been focused on providing independent and impartial 3rd party testing, inspection, and certification; as well as training, quality assurance and consulting services and expertise. “These core services have lead Intertek into supporting clients in a diverse range of industries and markets on a global scale. Today we have a network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 36,000 people in more than 100 countries.” Even with less-than-humble beginnings, the company has grown to work with some of the world’s leading brands and companies to help improve everything they do. The work Intertek does is varied and can include testing products to ensure they conform with all relevant rules and regulations; inspecting businesses to help improve efficiency; and drawing on years of experience for consultancy work. The clients are varied too. Riby-Smith said: “Our work takes us into almost every field imaginable.” And this includes, energy, oil and gas, alternative and power generation; consumer products ranging from toys to electrical goods, pharmaceutical and chemical goods, food, agriculture and a full range of transport. 68 | Endeavour Magazine
Putting the customer first With more than 200,000 customers in such large industries, it’s no wonder Intertek looks closely at its own processes. There’s a definite focus on customer satisfaction and quality of service. Intertek’s mission is ‘to provide solutions to customers that allow them to improve the quality of their products, operations and processes’. The service goes way beyond just the customer too as Intertek works all the way along complex supply chains to ensure quality and efficiency. We asked Mike Riby-Smith what Intertek does to keep customers satisfied and happy. He said: “Our industry knowledge, experience and technical expertise adds value to our customers’ products, enhances their processes, and increases their competitive advantage. This drives everything we do. Our goal is to develop innovative solutions that facilitate our customers’ success in the global marketplace and, most importantly, build consumer confidence in their products and services.” Because certification, inspection and testing are often ongoing
only national and international
services, the business is clearly
laws but also those set by
doing something right. We asked
Intertek to control standards.
Mike Riby-Smith what strategies
“One of the group’s primary business
objectives
help Intertek stay ahead of the
requires
competition, he said: “In 2013
adherence to local, national
we increased our global strategic
and international codes and
focus on our key business lines
laws, and the requirement that
and our operational focus around
the group’s employees show
our countries. This ensures we
integrity and honesty in all
are building the right knowledge
their dealings,” Riby-Smith said.
and capabilities to serve the
“Risk management and internal
developing
controls are therefore embedded
industry at a global level, while
throughout Intertek, assuring
also ensuring our services are
the accuracy and validity of
delivered in a way that recognises
reports and certificates that the
local market customers and the
group provides to customers.”
different operational needs of
needs
of
each
each country.
Staying ahead
“Intertek is a nimble and
needs for businesses, it’s important for Intertek to provide a strong
With so many international
proactive company, with a strong
after-sales service too. Riby-Smith said: “Since most of our clients use
companies taking on Intertek’s
entrepreneurial spirit across the
Intertek services on a continual basis, it is very important that we keep and maintain strong customer service levels and communication.”
Investing in people As well as the strong focus on its customers, Intertek greatly values its employees and makes every effort to support development and training. There are also strict requirements the staff have to adhere to. Not
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INTERTEK
organisation. We are committed to providing superior, innovative,
Africa
is
ongoing
and
value-added services in everything we do. It is this dedication and
continue into next year.
will
and acquisitions, we continue to
focus which helps us achieve market success and leadership.” Providing a bespoke service to each customer based on industry and geographical location helps Intertek to provide the best service possible. The dedication to constantly improving puts the company one step ahead of competitors. Intertek has looked closely at its African operations over the last year and has made a number of exciting developments. The company has established an oil condition monitoring service in Johannesburg with samples being sent from sub-Saharan Africa. This serves the mining and transport industries. One of the biggest developments is the environmental services division with a laboratory in Johannesburg. Intertek is in the process of applying for accreditation that will allow it to carry out testing which previously could only be done in the US and Europe. This is something that is going to put the company ahead of its African competitors. There have also been a number of new labs opened in countries across Africa by Intertek. These include: A petroleum lab in Maputo, Mozambique; another in Luanda, Angola; a lab in Torkaradi, Ghana serving petroleum and oil; and a lab for petroleum and the agricultural industries in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The development, expansion and establishment of labs across
70 | Endeavour Magazine
initiatives, organic investment deepen our capabilities in each
What’s next for Intertek?
of our industries. By maintaining our
There are plenty of plans for 2014 for the company. It’s looking at the refurbishment and upgrade of its labs in Port Harcourt and Lagos in Nigeria; further expansion of its Mozambique labs; and a new calibration lab in Ghana. Developments
within
the
company and improvements to its processes are on going as Riby-Smith explains: “We focus on meeting the needs of our customers by delivering a range of complementary services along the entire supply chain. Through a combination of new service
focus
on
delivering
services that add benefit to our customers’
organisations,
we
continue to be a sought-after and trusted partner to our clients.” There’s a lot businesses can learn from Intertek. The unparalleled
dedication
to
its customers is what makes Intertek special and brings in so much repeat business. The focus on each customer as an individual case makes sense too, especially when the client base is so varied in terms of size, industry and requirements.
Endeavour Magazine | 71
DAIRYHILL INVESTMENTS AND AFRICAN MINING AND EXPLORATION 00263 4 708036 WWW.AFMINE.CO.ZA
72 | Endeavour Magazine
Since its founding in 2001, a strong sense of balance has purveyed the operations at Afmine (the combination of Dairyhill Investments and African Mining and Exploration). Standing out in the industry as a beacon of environmental and industrial collaboration the company is one of the strongest and it is a pillar of strength. Always with a keen ear to taking a hands on approach to his work, Derek Cockcroft, the managing director, was on hand to discuss his company’s latest developments in this deeply South African industry.
WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL
A BUSINESS AS STRONG AS
Diamonds
Endeavour Magazine | 73
DAIRYHILL INVESTMENTS AND AFRICAN MINING AND EXPLORATION
“In 2001 we secured a contract with Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (Private) Limited, which has subsequently become a subsidiary of Impala Platinum Holdings Limited, a listed company in South Africa,” Derek explains, “This contract was for the haulage of platinoid ore from the opencast mine operation in Ngezi to the processing plant in Selous, an overall distance of 76km.”
T
he solution for this haulage method was developed in conjunction with Zimplats, with a view to establishing a safe, reliable and cost effective solution. This was achieved through
the use of Australian style road trains, able to operate under the legislated loading parameters set by the Zimbabwean Government. Specific legislation was passed by Government to allow the operation of these units, measured at 42 metres long and an overall gross vehicle mass of 160 ton. This specialised equipment was originally sourced from Australia, and was partially assembled locally utilising existing facilities within the group. Hence they were able to offer a cost advantage to the client and this operation continues to be the largest road train operation in Africa, achieving approximately 200 million ton/kilometres per annum. “Since then, we have grown the services to Zimplats through the introduction of ore rehandling, involving the introduction of both mining and crushing equipment, in order to assist with their above ground and underground developments,” Derek adds, “We have also expanded the group activities into exploration drilling services, such that we are able to accommodate most mining companies requirements within the group.” Afmine are heavily involved in a number of markets, indicitative of their organic growth that they have been able to meet the various demands of each of these different countries, which include Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique, with the most current projects being pursued in Tanzania and Namibia. Additionally, Afmine’s capabilities extend to contract mining and
74 | Endeavour Magazine
earthmoving, which is a medium sized operation undergoing organic growth currently as a result of additional client requirements as well
Customs Services is a one stop shipping, freight forwarding and customs clearing company founded in 1968 with 7 local offices and a global network representation in over 150 countries.
as new projects. Specialised haulage solutions for the mining industry, including exploration drilling: “The equipment used here is considered to be the best in its class,” Derek states, “The Boart Longyear LF90D diamond drill rigs as well as RC/RAB equipment,” Historical operations of Afmine also support the capability of performing diamond drilling in excess of 1000 metres using blast hole drilling, which is one of their current developments, mining consultancy services which makes use of Afmine’s highly skilled and practical mining experience and the significant skills they have in both opencast and underground developments.
What Training Is Given? Up to and over 250 staff work with Afmine at any one time and each of them adhere and follow a certain philosophy and attitude that can distinguish one of their employees out of a crowd. “One of our major focuses is the management of health and safety principles within our operations, and protection of the environment,” Derek explains, “Continual improvement of such skills is ongoing
Endeavour Magazine | 75
DAIRYHILL INVESTMENTS AND AFRICAN MINING AND EXPLORATION
within the organisation, with regular training courses. Our client
continual improvement of our
and reform whatever they need
requirements are particularly stringent due to nature of the mining
services to ensure that their
to.
industry and associated risks. We also continue to develop personnel
needs are constantly met as their
and skills through both on the job and independent educational
own business develops.”
courses with a view to strengthening our skills base.”
“With current commodity prices, costs and production
He continues, “Being an
challenges being faced by our
Some companies place no emphasis on staff development, let
owner/operator of business we
clients, we are required to
alone individual development however Derek is adamant with his
recognise that the success of
constantly review our work
opinion to how important this particular area is to him:
our business is directly related
methods and the equipment
“Very!” he exclaims, “Zimbabwe and Botswana have a fairly well
to the success of our clients
deployed to ensure that we
educated workforce but skills are still limited and Mozambique has a
and by maintaining a successful
are taking advantage of recent
very limited skill base. The future of our business lies in the abilities
relationship
client
technology developments,” he
of our personnel and we take their development and education very
through proven performance, we
details, “ Capital equipment
seriously.”
are able to secure a competitive
replacement is a major focus in
edge with repeat business.”
order to ensure that our services
Afmine’s Customers Derek immediately strikes as one of those people who has
with
Along
with
operation
and
the
a
smooth a
keen
approached business with the intention of making a definite impact on
understanding of how best to
those he works with. Handling both staff and clients with a sincerity
look after staff and customers
that is refreshing and inspiring.
alike, Afmine is further enhanced
“In order to service the client fully, we ensure that we understand
by a willingness to adapt to
their business needs from the outset,” he details, “We all undergo
circumstances and learn, relearn
76 | Endeavour Magazine
are always reliable, cost effective and safe.”
What’s In The Future? Leading into 2013 Afmine
are introducing a mining consultancy division which allows them to assist in the development of the mining industry and further develop opportunities for their group.
This consultancy extends to full
management of new projects, with final handover to the client once in productive state. There is also the ongoing expansion of the mining services into blast hole drilling for opencast mining projects which has expected growth within the mining industry within Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique. All countries have massive potential for growth within this sector, being very undeveloped in worldwide standards. “We believe that we will be able to grow the business significantly due to our position in all three countries. We also believe that we shall be able to expand into other territories within the region, becoming a sizeable player within the mining services industry, Our aim is to effectively double the size of the business within the next 3 years, requiring further investment of approximately $20 million. In order to achieve this, we are doing as much as possible to develop internal skills in order to cope with the anticipated growth, thereby ensuring no reduction in our client service principles,� he concludes.
Endeavour Magazine | 77
PARROGATE ZIMBABWE 00 263 4 667608 WWW.PARROGATE.COM
78 | Endeavour Magazine
SUCCESS, GROWTH AND Family
Values WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL
With in excess of 200 full time and a further 1000 seasonal staff members, Parrogate Zimbabwe have built on a family business legacy to become an international company with a keen eye for diversification.
Endeavour Magazine | 79
PARROGATE ZIMBABWE
Initially established in 1896, the Ganediwal family cotton ginning business has shown considerable growth, due to the continued commitment from younger generations, culminating in the founding of Parrogate Zimbabwe in 2004.
B
eginning in Zimbabwe, Pradyumm Ganediwal, alongside his older brother Pradeep, focused on cotton ginning, the core strength of the family business legacy, but growth
and diversification would not be far away. 2006 bore witness to the first expansion program with the acquisition of a second ginnery, as well as furnishing both the new and existing facility with oil expelling technology. With expansion success already firmly under their belt, Parrogate Zimbabwe went on to take over Continental Ginneries Limited, based in Zambia, in 2007. The Continental acquisition ensured that there was a solid basis for significant growth within Zambia with a total of 3 ginneries, as well as oil expelling facilities, now being present. With the cotton ginning arm of the business in full operation, diversification into Zimbabwe grain milling began in earnest in 2009 with a modest daily capacity of twenty tons, which has since grown to 120 tons a day. The success of the operation quickly led to plans for an equivalent capacity plant in Kadoma. Edible oil extraction also became another string to the highly expansive bow of Parrogate, in conjunction with the Export Trading Group, in Harare, Zimbabwe. With a wide reaching presence felt in India, Zambia and Malawi, though not known by the Parrogate name in all of them, and with a diverse portfolio that incudes Manganese mining, Ferro-alloys processing, real estate development, grains trading, farming, cotton ginning and cooking oil production, the company looks set for widespread market domination.
80 | Endeavour Magazine
Endeavour Magazine | 81
PARROGATE ZIMBABWE
With a large number of specialties, it stands to reason that there
support our well performing
set itself apart in terms of client
must be a comprehensive staff training program in place, so what is
and committed members with
services?
provided?
necessary training, putting them
“We believe in keeping a
“We have to train our staff on imported equipment, for this we
through training on specialist
more personal touch with our
have specialists coming to our facilities, from our suppliers, to train
courses which will help them
customers and living up to
our staff. We also have highly qualified staff, with different origins,
learn, understand, get exposure
the commitments we make to
who have experience of working for some of the big multinationals
and in turn, it will also help the
keep them happy and satisfied
and in multiple countries, whose valuable contribution becomes very
company in terms of efficiency,
in order to ensure they come
necessary in emerging markets” explains Anirudh Ganediwal, son of
and productivity in respective
back to us. Interacting like this,
Pradyumm.
fields.”
we have developed business
With this in mind, developing individuals that have demonstrated
Customer
satisfaction
is,
aptitude and ability is an important value, with Anirudh commenting
of course, at the forefront of
that,
any
“It is very important, as we believe in developing local skills. We
82 | Endeavour Magazine
commercially
relationships
lasting
decades
with many companies.”
successful
“Our strength has always
business, but how does Parrogate
been that we grow together,
Cotton Gin Sollutions from the time of owning just one cotton gin in Zimbabwe, to several across the continent. We have also seen our customers and suppliers
New and used parts and machinery for all makes and models of gin equipment, including:
grow with us. We have always been a faithful business partner and flexible in difficult times. This helps us keep healthy ties with all our customers, and shows the importance of after-sales and customer commitment at Parrogate.”
Lummus • Continental • Murray • Consolidated • Mitchell • Moss-Gordin • Horn • and other gin equipment manufacturers, both foreign and domestic
A diverse portfolio, an exemplar customer service ethos and strong family values are the backbone of this successful company, and working alongside these elements is a cleat strategy for keeping ahead of the competition; “We are constantly striving to grow in all fields, giving exposure to staff members, learning and enhancing with ever-changing technology, maintaining a lean management structure, upgrading facilities and trying to go that extra mile to reach out to our customers where our competitors cannot. I think it is not only financial, marketing and sales strategies that are vital but also the development and maintenance of all the verticals in the business in order to stay ahead of the competition.” Casting an eye to the future, what plans do Parrogate have for progressing? Three of the most eagerly anticipated developments
509 11th Ave., Suite 3m Albany, Georgia 31701 (229) 483-9433 phone (229) 483-9434 fax
are: •
and equipped with Buhler, Carver, Lummus and other state of the art equipment to process oilseeds efficiently. The facility Is equipped with railway sidings for better logistics and will also be linked to a silo facility. This project has been the dream of Pradyumn Ganediwal for a long time, and he has studied accordingly for the past five years, which is why it is very detailed and has been designed to prevent becoming dated too quickly. •
Silo facilities across the three African nations to capitalize on possible trading opportunities in grains by out growing crops. Parrogate are also striving towards efficiency in order to avoid spillages, loss and infestation by pests, which will in turn contribute towards food security of the respective nations.
•
www.cccgin.com
The oil extraction facility being completed in Harare, Zimbabwe,
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Endeavour Magazine | 83
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WILROCK LTD 001 758 455 9999 WWW.WILROCK.COM
84 | Endeavour Magazine
Endeavour Magazine picks the brains of Urban Wilson, managing director of stone manufacturing company Wilrock Ltd, to flatter the success of their recent development projects. One day in St. Lucia, circa 1992, five brothers acted on a vision of brilliance. It was a vision of solid graft, of communities and of great improvement. If accomplished, the brothers knew that this dream would not only affect themselves, but many of the island’s people, too. WRITTEN BY LEONIE ANN GARLICK
A BREATH OF Fresh Air FOR ST LUCIAN DEVELOPMENT Endeavour Magazine | 85
WILROCK LTD
It was a light at the end of a difficult economic period for St Lucia; an opportunity to soften the damage in the aftermath of the recession. Wilrock Limited was born that day, along with a heavy commitment to develop the previously uninhabitable areas of St.Lucia, including main roads and quarries, and later, areas of the wider Caribbean.
It was a commitment that no other company attempted, and one that only a strong family business could wholly accept. The brothers- Peter, Norbert, Henry, Gilbert and Urban- set up a masterful manufacturing business with the ambition to assist the renovation of any chunks of unusable land in the area. From working on post-hurricane highways and tourist flocking marinas, to receiving business tutorials from internationally recognised partners such as Volvo; Wilrock was destined to make an impact. The company recognised a gap in the market which would boost the essential development of their island; the production and distribution of much needed building materials such as stone and aggregate. If these materials were readily available, it was thought- there would be high hopes of the island springing back into shape. It was a big job, but Urban and his brothers wasted no time in gathering a workforce, which consisted of 175 employees, all of whom were encouraged to expand within the company. So judging by Wilrock’s small but mighty unit, how did the company get in their position? “Individual initiative,” Urban Wilson says; and looking at his professional contacts, it’s impossible not to believe him. “We also run in house training,” Urban says fondly, “Most of our employees enter with the basic skills then are taught (from our base) with manufacture guidance from Volvo, Metso and Qunfeng,” When you’re under the wings of Volvo, it’s acceptable to acknowledge the fact that you’re onto something. Because of this, Urban and his team spent six years carefully 86 | Endeavour Magazine
planning and financing this grand family project, which officially kicked off in the year 1998. The first product Wilrock successfully knocked together was “Armor Stone,” a natural grey substance which is home grown in the company’s personal quarry. The stone is individually sliced, weighed and served according to customer requirements; ensuring that the right slab always ends up on the scene of the right job. A lot of work goes into treating the stone in preparation for sales; in fact 900 MT of Armor stone in particular is dealt with each and every day. This is after the barges have undergone the initial manufacturing process, of course. St Lucia has a sticky climate and an extensive history of rock geology; because of this the island proved a perfect starting line for the company’s aspirations. Not only that, the brothers had inherited a family quarry- Saphyr Estate in Laborie, St Lucia- which was located at the heart of all the rock breeding action. From here on, everything began to slot into place for Wilrock Ltd. The team quickly learnt that customers wanted consistency and efficiency over anything else, and that continuing to make and deliver Armor Stone would bring them that.
Endeavour Magazine | 87
WILROCK LTD
Mr Wilson confirms: “Our customers demand attractive prices
Trinidad and Tobago was one
products after they’ve made that
and timely delivery,” So that’s exactly what the company promised;
of those countries, and has now
all important purchase, or indeed
good value and quick service.
become a regular receiver of
take heed of their feedback.
With the obvious increase of broken land around the island,
popular St Lucian exports such
which was mainly due to an uproar in tectonic activity, producing and
as screened aggregates and filter
maintaining a strong bond with
dispatching this problem solving stone was a no brainer.
stone.
your
“We have developed and became the leader in the region of
Wilrock
develops
agrees
customer
is
that essential;
these
even in an industry where little
Armor Stone. The following year (in 1999), we started to manufacture
contacts
providing
correspondence is needed. He
aggregate,” Mr Wilson said proudly.
trustworthy products; nothing
said: “We are a source of primary
more.
inputs; after-sales support is of
Judging by the volume of action plans going on at the moment, the Wilrock boss has every justification to look proud.
through
Urban
Mr Wilson says: “The Wilrock
limited requirement. However
Flash fact: Mr Urban Wilson has some serious contacts under his
team is dedicated to providing
we do like to closely monitor
belt. Take the company’s transition from local to exports in 2002. With
the best quality materials to our
feedback from customers”.
business partners such as Caribbean Shipping Agencies and Trinidad
customers through the use of
Contractors Limited, Wilrock has been able to connect with 10 like-
the latest technology in order to
developed quite a passion for
minded countries on a customer basis.
meet international standards”
their customers; so much so
Wilrock
has
certainly
This should be recognised as a massive stepping stone for the
The level of customer focus
that as a financially gaining
company. That’s 10 more countries who are now working on their
makes the company all the more
organisation, they feel it’s time
roads, ports and pavements and 10 more countries that are able
popular; there are not many
to give something back to the
to improve their physical development with thanks to Wilrock’s
manufacturers who are willing
community they grew up in.
powerful resources.
to teach customers about their
88 | Endeavour Magazine
This statement was not just
intended for their customers, but for their neighbours as well. When the company is not dealing hard business, they are putting their efforts into precious philanthropy; this includes money, time or technology investments- or often all three at the same time. Wilrock is accountable for a lot of the volunteering that goes on in the area, such as the rebuilding of the main roads after Hurricane Tomas and the construction of a new rifle range for local troops and police. They’re a handy bunch to have around. So what’s next on Wilrock’s adventurous agenda? Well, besides assisting the rehabilitation of nearby airports in St Lucia and Guyana; the company are throwing themselves into an extensive line of major road and port projects in Trinidad & Trabago, Barbados and Monserrat. Wilrock hopes these projects will greatly encourage expansion; changing their business model from a local company to an export led service. Mr Wilson says: “We have invested $5million into developing the model; and are currently building new relationships and partners to meet our objective” Not only is the Caribbean based company dedicated to rebuilding, but to brand new building projects, too. They are currently working on
For over the past 20 years Surrey Paving and Aggregate have provided a wide range of Engineering and Construction Services. We are ISO 9001:2008 certified in the field of engineering design and construction. We have a track record of excellence and have been involved in major projects in Jamaica and the Caribbean.
a prestigious marina on the beautiful island of Barbados.
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Endeavour Magazine | 89
Founded in 1966 as the first architectural and engineering consulting firm in Qatar, AEB brings 47 years of experience to the construction industry. Over those years Arab Engineering Bureau has evolved into a leading multidisciplinary architectural design consultancy. AEB operates across the Middle East, in Doha and Abu Dhabi and South East Asia, with offices in Manila and Kuala Lumpur. Building on the firm’s pioneering work and consolidating a long-term commitment to future development in the region, AEB recently established an office in Muscat, Oman. I was honoured to speak with CEO, Chief Architect and author of “History of Qatari Architecture” Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah. ARAB ENGINEERING BUREAU 00974 4406 8899 WWW.AEB-QATAR.COM
90 | Endeavour Magazine
DIVERSE OFFERING FROM THE AEB FAMILY
WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS
Endeavour Magazine | 91
ARAB ENGINEERING BUREAU
“AEB works across extensively divergent project scales, typologies and environmental conditions,” Ibrahim begins, “In recent years, the firm has completed numerous commercial, residential, civic, institutional, educational and historic preservation projects for a variety of public and private clients throughout Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Kuwait, Egypt, Yemen and Sudan.”
A
rab Engineering Bureau (AEB) is an award-winning firm of architects, urban and master planners, interior, landscape and structural designers, engineers, quantity surveyors
and project and design managers with a truly inimitable portfolio. The strongest aspect of their business is that they are well rounded in terms of services offered as just recently AEB has introduced speciality areas such as Acoustics, Lighting, Transportation and Planning to their offering. “Our strength lies in transforming potential into reality,” Ibrahim affirms, “The firm considers every project to be a benefactor to a sustainable environment, local economy and community,” AEB draws on the strengths of a unique architectural methodology, established by Ibrahim M. Jaidah himself. Its focus is on the present development of the country, and, where appropriate, the firm preserves and articulates traditional architecture while ensuring that each design offers the client a functional space tailored to their needs and design brief. The firm’s approach is grounded in the search for contextually appropriate solutions. Special emphasis is given to climate and scale – and, as a result, AEB has been chosen numerous times to create landmark projects. “Notable early projects include the Barzan Tower, acclaimed as one of the most famous buildings of the Doha skyline,” he continues, “And award-winning projects such as the Diplomatic Club and Al Shaqab Institute for Girls which has been honoured on the Qatari Currency 100 Riyal note.”
92 | Endeavour Magazine
Untitled-1 1
13/11/2013 07:13
Contraco is an ISO 9001-2008 certified company, established in 1972, in the field of Construction and Trading in the State of Qatar. Over the years, Contraco has grown and
advanced to become one of the leading companies in the field of construction, being classified by the Qatari Government as a grade “A� Contractor in the State of Qatar.
CONTRACO W.L.L. P.O. Box: 2658 Doha - Qatar Tel: +974 44109333 Fax: +974 4451 0399
www.contraco.com.qa Contraco HP.indd 1
Endeavour13/11/2013 Magazine | 93 06:35
ARAB ENGINEERING BUREAU
The Family Of Aeb Beginning with just six employees in 1991, when the firm was acquired by its current Chief Executive Officer Ibrahim M. Jaidah, AEB’s diversified human resource has grown to a current figure of close to 600 highly qualified professionals.
Diversified Human Resources The Key To Successful Business
are not only general international rules and regulations but locally established regulations relevant to the local environment. We keep our staff up to date and in line with state regulated policies and rules in construction industry. Individual development is of extreme importance and we always encourage and very often finance our staff’s further professional education and development.”
Hands On For Client Management
With branches in Doha, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Manila, Kuala Lumpur
AEB’s executives play an important role in client management
and Bangkok AEB employees have an unparalleled foundation on
and involve their clients in the entire process from conception to
which to build their careers, their abilities and their dreams. AEB
completion of their projects, regardless of project scale or typology.
provides an opportunity to work in a diversified work culture with
“We are very proud that more than 80% of our clients are
people from almost every corner of the world. Presently there are 33
returning to us for our services,” Ibrahim says, “I believe that high
nationalities employed at AEB.
client retention reflects client’s satisfaction. We make sure to always
“As AEB employees hail from different regions of the world and
provide quality services within the scope and budget.”
bring the local expertise and culture, our staff are well versed in over
What makes us unique,” he goes on to highlight, “Is having a history
forty different languages and dialects,” Ibrahim describes, clearly
of almost 50 years practising in Qatar, and over this period of time we
proud, “The firm’s strength is derived from this diversified work force
have managed to acquire a wealth of information and knowledge on
and its people are the architects of the future.”
local architecture, local engineering, local environment, the culture of
He continues, “Standards which our staff have to adhere to
94 | Endeavour Magazine
conducting business and understanding the client.”
What Does The Future Hold
of our core values education is fundamental part of who we
With World Cup 2022 being hosted in Qatar there has been a noticeable shift in the markets, especially
in
the
hospitality
and sports venues. Hospitality projects are being done on a much larger scale than before, Ibrahim tells us. “In terms of the sports venues and stadiums we have been approached by a few major international
key
players
in
the sports venue development to offer our local cultural and technical expertise,” he says, “Currently we are involved in many major projects but just to name a few for your readers, they are Marsa Malaz Kempinski Hotel which will become one of the most luxurious hotels in the region, New Doha Port, Abu Sidra Masterplan, a design for a new self-sustaining community development. We are currently in
phase
one
with
retail,
educational, and health centres on the way.” Now that the firm is well established in the Middle East and Asia, they are looking into other possibilities of expanding the firm’s horizons. Their goal is to create a strong regional presence but could very soon start
looking
markets,
into
especially
African Northen
Africa. Ibrahim revealed they are expecting a work force increase of 14%-20%. “Our plan is also to continue with
our
Corporate
Social
Responsibility plan which has taken a centre stage at AEB,” he highlights, “Our corporate social responsibility is most dominant
are, reflecting our long term commitment to Qatar National Vision 2030 and knowledge based society.” AEB
is
committed
to
the community where their employees by
live
and
supporting
work
educational
programs, but also serving as ambassador to the local heritage and local traditional architecture. Of the key areas that are closest to Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah’s heart, it is clear that this is a man who can see the long term benefits of developing the people of the community to
create
education
a
foundation
of
and
intellect
for
the company to build future developments upon.
These
include scholarships and grants at the Virginia Commonwealth University of Qatar, developing entrepreneurship
through
workshops and sponsorships, lectures,
workshops
conferences
at
a
and number
of universities in Qatar and out and a strong, regional and
international
internship
placement programme. “If AEB is to continue serving our customers well, we have to look at developing our staff. Training
and
education
for
the next generation is how we position ourselves for the future,” he concludes.
History of Qatari Architecture In January 2010 Ibrahim M. Jaidah’s commitment to cultural awareness and growth, and his passion for research resulted in the publication a book titled History of Qatari Architecture. This book is intended to become the key reference work for the subject, including being used for educational purposes. It is a part of Ibrahim M. Jaidah’s legacy and is dedicated to those who built the unique buildings of the past and those who strive to become the great architects of the future.
in the area of education. As one Endeavour Magazine | 95
NDOLA LIME 00260 212 627600 WWW.NDOLALIME.CO.ZM
96 | Endeavour Magazine
Ndola is the third largest city in Zambia, with a population of nearly half a million, as the industrial and commercial center of the Copperbelt, Zambia’s copper-mining region, and capital of Copperbelt Province it is also the commercial capital city of Zambia. After turbulent periods of economic slumps between the 1980s and 2000 where many of its industrial automotive assemblage plants closed it has turned to its production and refinery of the heavy lime deposits in the country to help it regain its former pre-1980 glory.
Covering THE MARKET WRITTEN BY LANCE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN
Endeavour Magazine | 97
NDOLA LIME
One of the stalwart companies leading this national mission, Ndola Mine has taken on this responsibility and we spoke with Chief Executive Officer, Abraham Witika regarding this. Ndola Lime Company Limited (NLC) is a wholly owned subsidiary of ZCCM-IH. The Company was originally founded on 10th January 1931 as the Northern Rhodesia Lime Company Limited, pursuant to an agreement between the Rhokana Corporation Limited and Mr. John Owen Wallen, an Ndola Engineer to supply lime to the mines.
N
dola has huge limestone reserves which are believed to be among the most homogeneous of their kind in the world. Limestone has therefore
become to Ndola’s economy what copper is to the rest of the country, providing much of the wealth and employment. Lime is a major component in the production of cement and an average cement plant getting its lime from limestone and manufacturing a limestone cement will consume well over 80 kg limestone per 100 kg of cement it manufactures.
Early Operations Initial lime burning trials were carried out in wood fired, hollowed-out Anthills at Misundu 16 km North of Ndola close to the Congo border in 1931. The results were good and this led to the construction of underground pot kilns. A second quarry was opened in the late 1930’s at Chipulukusu before the company moved to its present location at Mwatesi in 1962.
Present Operations In 1973 a new Rotary Kiln was commissioned. In 1986 a 500 tonnes per day annular Vertical Kiln was commissioned to cater for increased demand of lime especially at the Tailing Leach Plant in Chingola. Quick limestone consists of 98% calcium carbonate (CaCo3). The rocks are reduced and graded in a series of crusher and vibrating screens and then stored in silos 98 | Endeavour Magazine
This announcement appears as a matter of record only.
according to size, either as fluxstone for use in the smelters (0 – 10mm) or as Kilnstone (10 – 35mm) sent to the rotary kiln and 35 – 75mm sent to the Annular Shaft kiln to be further processed into quicklime. 10% of the quicklime produced is further processed into hydrated lime.
Ndola Lime
THE NDOLA LIME COMPANY LIME PLANT RECAPITALISATION PROJECT
US$85,000,000
At one point, Ndola Lime was the sole producer of quick lime in Zambia however the market has changed with a number of rival producers taking up a foothold in the country. Nevertheless, Ndola
MANDATED LEAD ARRANGER AND FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Lime took the long awaited arrival of some decent competition as an opportunity to invest in some new developments to even further raise themselves and their offerings. An increase in capacity, expansion of facilities and investment into new technology meant that the headstart they had created since the 1930s was lengthened by a steadily increasing margin. Enhancements to the company’s crushing capacity and concrete
September 2012 As a leading Financial Advisory firm conducting its business in Zambia and Southern Africa in general, iCapital is proud to be associated with the US$85,000,000 Ndola Lime Plant Recapitalization Project in its role of Mandated Lead Arranger and Advisor.
block making facilities, the addition of a new substation, kiln, hydrator and dust abatement system has made it possible for Ndola Lime to further capitalize upon its position as an independent company.
T: +260 211 256 657 • E: info@icapital.co.zm
Employing over 430 staff, Ndola Lime have invested significantly
Endeavour Magazine | 99
NDOLA LIME
to create a workforce of highly trained employees benefitting from
is further treated to achieve greater purity of sugar solution which is
the most relevant and up-to-date certificates and courses. The
ultimately crystallised and packaged. Much the same as Agricultural
technology used is state of the art and as equipment is updated so
Lime, Hydrated Lime is used in the treatment of water with other
too does the training change to avoid accidents and unnecessary
coagulant aids in the purification process to achieve a clear suspension
downtime.
and serve as a filter aid. Lime also assists in removal of bacterial and
This is particularly relevant considering the diverse range of
temporary hardness due to the presence of bicarbonates.
products that Ndola Lime offers to its clientele.
Metallurgical Operation Lime, is used in the metal industries operations; fluxstone (10mm to dust) and kilnstone (10-35mm) is
The Products
used in Mine smelters to flux the metal ores to form slag. As Limestone
Agricultural Lime comes from ground lime rock and is used
also improves properties of calcium silicate, it has a lot of use in the
increasingly by famers as it is best for neutralizing acidic soils and
glass industry creating products such as tumblers, glasses and bottles.
improving the workability of soil. Agricultural lime is produced as a
Limestone inhibits chemical attack, making the glass less brittle
by-product in the limestone calcination process in the form of kiln
and stronger and improves appearance and heat shock of glass.
dust and is used in chemical industries and road construction for soil
Interesting, limestone is the lowest cost fluxing material used for
stabilizations, it’s also useful in water treatment, sugar refining and
glass production.
the dehairing of hides. Hydrated Lime is used in PH control, which facilitates precipitation
Future Developments
of cobalt hydroxide from the electrolyte in cobalt production. In the
The firm will be commissioning a new vertical kiln in December
production of sugar from both cane and beets, the crude sugar juice
2013 which will have a production capacity of 500 tonnes per day in
(sucrose) is treated with lime. This forms insolubles that are filtered
order to reach production demands.
to remove phosphatic materials and organic acids. The resulting juice
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Endeavour Magazine | 101
REGIMANUEL GRAY LTD 00233 302 764 682 WWW.REGIMANUELGRAY.COM
102 | Endeavour Magazine
HOUSING THE
Community WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER
Incorporated in 1991, Regimanuel Gray LTD holds real estate development as its core business and identity, creating an exemplinary example of a successful international joint-venture. In Ghana this collaboration has benefitted the people of this country significantly, developing a national optimism and determination to go further with longer strides. With a substantial interest in the construction, mining and hospitality sectors in Ghana, Regimanuel Gray LTD are twinned with Gray Construction of Houston, Texas, a US firm with an impressive presence within the construction industry of the United States. This international partnership creates a beneficial credibility for both companies as customers identify this connection as an invested strength.
Endeavour Magazine | 103
REGIMANUEL GRAY LTD
“You become a product of your environment� is an adage often used in business circles and it has proven to be accurate time and time again. In a business you are the sum of your parts and with this in mind you have to choose the right sort of people to work with if you are going to reach the targets and heights that you aspire towards. Regimanuel Gray LTD have taken significant steps to ensure that they surround and work with only the best.
E
ver since its inception, the company has had an assemblage of dedicated top calibre local and expatriate personnel managing its operations and this is has been key to their emergence as
the leading private real estate developer in Ghana. The Regimanuel Gray LTD trademark is a well-known label of the highest standards, of timely construction and delivery upon promises. Not only indicative of the reasonably priced housing units, it is a representation of quality or prime locations that with the benefit of well-developed and reliable infrastructure. To date, the company has more than two thousand houses bearing these hallmarks and Regimanuel Gray Ltd have been the recipient of the 1998 Home Finance Company Gold Award for Best Estate Developer, the Ghana Millennium Excellence Award and the 13th International Construction Award of Trade Leaders Club, Paris. This has put them in the enviable position as a member of the Ghana Club 100-a selection of the top 100 Companies in Ghana to work for, to work with and to trust.
State Of Ghana In terms of financial freedoms and economic strength Ghana is ranked seventh of the forty six counties in the Sub-Saharan African region and its overall score has risen above the world average. The Ghanaian economic freedom score which measures the financial surpluss a household can use to put back into the economy via 104 | Endeavour Magazine
spending. This is an accurate measure of inflation, economic stability
technically have a responsibility to manage the neighbourhood,
and the overall state of a country. Currently it is ranked at 61.3 making
however it is something that they take very seriously.
the economy the 77th freest in the 2013 Index. This has improved
Regimanuel Estates Management Limited is the managerial
by 0.6 point average due to improvements in investment and fiscal
arm of the Regimanuel Gray Group with a primary responsibility
freedoms and the control on government spending.
to provide the best in Estate Facilities management and support by
A notable economic growth rate of 8 percent over the past five
ensuring the efficient management of Estates facilities such as roads,
years has been supported by strong reforms focused on spurring
community pools and tennis courts, lanscape, sanitation, electricals,
private sector development. Institutions that enhance economic
general utilities and other services.
growth are becoming more efficient and effective. Supported by
Making use of a team of professionals who are strictly scheduled
stable macroeconomic policies and on-going reforms the new
to see to the day to day needs of their estates with the best of
president’s commitment to continued reform has proven to be crucial
supervision they assure a flawless level commitment and service.
in improving Ghana’s economic health and freedom.
Along with staff receiving regular training updates, the management
Despite significant progress, obstacles do remain, and particular
arm of Regimanuel Gray is regularly audited to maintain their status.
institutions need development and reform. Property rights are poorly protected, and high levels of corruption persist due to overall weakness in the rule of law. Tackling these issues will be necessary
Ghana’s Future For Ghana to achieve its goals of accelerated economic growth,
if rapid growth is to be maintained and Regimanuel Gray LTD has
improved quality of life for all Ghanaian citizens and reduced
pledged itself to set the standard as high as possible.
poverty through higher private investment, rapid and aggressive
Management Responsibilities As the building residential estates, Regimanuel Gray may not
industrialization, as well as direct and aggressive poverty-alleviation efforts, all the companies need to follow Regimanuel Gray’s principles of industry focus and employee development. Endeavour Magazine | 105
Rikki Brest
BY DONNIE RUST
A genuine product of South African talent,
Rikki Brest has set an example for all young and aspiring South African performers to embrace the opportunities presented and to put all their effort into achieving their dreams. A multi-talented artist, Rikki boasts a comprehensive repertoire of talents that makes her one of the real diamonds of South Africa. Reportedly having started dancing at the age of five, Rikki qualified as a dance teacher in 2004 however is not a case example of “those who can’t do, teach” having established herself as a reputable and bankable commodity for any aspect of the entertainment industry from percussion performances, to modelling, acting and presenting. We caught up with Rikki to have a chat to her about what it takes to be Rikki Brest. DONNIE RUST: I’ve heard that you are devoutly Joburg? Rikki: Yes, I was born here in May 1985 and have lived here ever since, except for a stint in Cape Town in 2011 when I was filming a TV Series called Clifton Shores. DONNIE RUST: And what are the main areas that you are specializing in at the moment? Rikki: At the moment my career is multifaceted; I am teaching Drums, playing drums in a band called Splinter Town, Presenting, Acting, DJing and playing percussion.
©Stone Elephants
106 | Endeavour Magazine
DONNIE RUST: that’s impressive, how long have you been performing n these various genres? Rikki: I have been playing drums for 15 years, DJing for 1 year, and Presenting and Acting for 3 years. DONNIE RUST: We always want to highlight the activities and routines that successful people take so that our readers can follow them. Are you an early riser?
chocolate and junk food?
time and if you let it slip then
Rikki: I don’t really drink alcohol-
someone else will overtake you. So there is a generous
DONNIE RUST: maybe not as
amount of time that goes into
much like the publishing industry
maintaining, and then when
then
there is a specific show that an
has been booked extra hours
Rikki: I am terrible at waking up early. Most of my career
occasional beer or glass of wine
Rikki:
-besides
for
go into preparing for that show
happens late at night, so I am very active at night and I often work
maybe once a month, but as
specifically.
until 2am even after a show sometimes, so I like to try sleep a bit
for junk food, there is plenty of
DONNIE RUST: A lot of our
later to make up for the sleep I miss at night.
space! I don’t stick to a diet so
readers are petrol heads, and
DONNIE RUST: Yes. I know what you mean, publishing is very much
I find myself always snacking
when we found out you were
the same. How much time do you spend in preparation for your roles?
on junk food to give me quick
involved in the Top Gear Festival
Ie. Exercise, diet and beauty routines?
sugar spikes because I hardly
in South Africa we kind of geeked
have time for a sit down meal
out a little bit. For gigs like the Top
during the day.
Gear Festival, how much time is
Rikki: I constantly try to keep everything in check. So I try gym as often as I can even if I don’t have something currently on. My hair, skin, nails always need to be in good shape and condition in case of a last minute role. I practice drumming and DJing as well
DONNIE RUST: And how much time is spent in rehearsal?
spent in rehearsal? Rikki: It depends on the
as voice exercises weekly. I also try to always keep busy, so even if
Rikki: Many hours go into
show. Sometimes I get a script
there are no official shoots I try do experimental shoots or shows
rehearsal. It’s all very well
sent to me and I learn it and
to keep the momentum up. There is never a down time in this
having a talent or skill but if
arrive on set and film it straight
industry and you need to be ready for anything, so I make sure that
you don’t maintain it, you are
away like Petrolheads. With
I always am.
throwing it away. You have
Top Gear, because it was a
to be top of your game all the
live festival we had 2 days of
DONNIE RUST: Is there any room for treats such as alcohol,
©Justin Lee Endeavour Magazine | 107
working on the script with
the track with some of the best presenters in the world, and I got
the producer and presenters,
involved and learnt how to doughnut in front of a great audience.
and one day of running the
DONNIE RUST: More and more focus has to be placed on connecting
show twice before going live
with fans. How much time is put into work online with the likes of
the next day. It all depends on
Twitter, Facebook etc and do you have a particular strategy?
time, budget, size of the show
Rikki: I would say that at least 10% of my day everyday goes
as to how much rehearsal we
towards social media. If you don’t have fans or supporters then
get. It’s usually seen as quite a
you don’t have an audience which means you don’t have a career.
luxury to have a rehearsal.
So I make sure I reply to every single message I get, I interact with
DONNIE RUST: What was your favourite moment?
108 | Endeavour Magazine
with what I am doing next, or have just done, I post photos, videos
Rikki: The whole Top Gear
and events that I have been involved with so that people can
experience was my favourite
actually follow what I do. It is very important to be connected in
moment of presenting to date.
these times when social media has such a heavy impact on your
I got to be around amazing
brand.
cars which is what I love, share
©Mike Mullane
those that interact with me, and most of all I keep people updated
DONNIE RUST: Technology is uniting the internet, radio and
television together: What are your thoughts on this? Do you believe that unification is a good or bad thing and why? Rikki: I don’t think it is a particularly good thing. Not everyone is tech savvy or able to get to use technology based on monetary
DONNIE RUST: Ah. Lucky guy. What are you most looking forward to for the remainder of 2013 and 2014?
restrictions. People need to be able to keep up to date with
Rikki: I am really looking
what is happening in the world on various sources of media.
forward to the busy season
Easily accessible, free, and easy to use so that everyone can stay
at the end of the year. I love
informed.
performing and hopefully I will
DONNIE RUST: Next one is an important question. Are you involved with anyone romantically and either way what do you look for?
be fully booked in the peak season. 2014 is a new year with
Rikki: Yes I am happily involved-
brand new possibilities and I
DONNIE RUST: hmph
find that exciting.
Rikki: I am generally attracted to intelligent, ambitious and respectful type of men. Humility and compassion are also two very important attributes I look for. Usually it is the more out of the ordinary, unique guys that catch my attention.
Endeavour Magazine | 109
HOW TO BE A CONCERT PROMOTER A
BY DARYL SIMPSON
lot of money can be made by being
a
concert
promoter.
It takes dedication and the
right tools to be successful but it is a very well-known process that takes time and diligence. Consistency in this industry is the watchword. Note: This is not about making millions but making a sustainable, regular income that can be built upon.
Start easy, start local. Making money is the important part about this industry, promoters who are focussed on making the money will also be the ones able to pay the performers and the talent. But too many people forget that there is a load of money to be made on working smaller venues. I’ve met tons of promoters that make a lot if not most of their money focussing on small events. While other people are too busy focussing on trying to make millions there are those living comfortably on doing the smaller, more niche venues.
Search, find a venue, build relationships. Finding a small venue with a decent seating capacity is great because all venues with a seating capacity of 200 seats or more will be willing to negotiate on price as well as providing enough of a spread to make some money. Smaller venues are easier to
110 | Endeavour Magazine
fill and this is a game that relies on reputation, rather be known as the promoter that packs out a smaller venue than the promoter with loads of empty seats.
Stick to your wheelhouse.
Promote, promote and promote your event. Having a good idea on how to properly promote is important however don’t think that it’s all down to one good idea. Get your event
Communicate and Promote Afterwards. Whenever
possible
keep
on every website and social network you possibly can, make sure that
a list and a database of those
there is the audience-outlet for it to be seen and then look at multiple
who come to your events. This
ways to promote it. Media material, Youtube videos, images, profiles
helps you develop a reputation
and reviews are important so don’t leave them out.
amongst them and you’ll find
There is no point booking
Whenever possible don’t be afraid to do things face to face, most
bands or acts that you don’t like.
certain faces continue to pop
of your friends could afford a £10.00 ticket but won’t buy it online
It won’t work, if you hate rap you
up in the crowd, this will help
because they’re lazy. But face to face they’ll be more likely to pay the
have no business to promote
guarantee a certain number
money and take their ticket. This is a win.
of ticketsales every time. Use
rappers. You need to find and book bands, acts, performers
Get your money.
Facebook,
Twitter,
emails,
whatever it takes to stay in touch,
that you like. Bands, comedians,
Nobody gets into the show without paying the money. Final. Some
magicians, presenters, whatever
drop them relevant Youtube
promoters have a problem when it comes to actually asking to be
they are if you like them you’ll
details and just keep in touch.
paid, as do performers because there is a jump between amateur and
be able to find other people who
Even if you do so via Snapchat
professional that seems massive but relies on only one stipulation, “I
like them. This sort of bias will
and text.
want to get paid.”
actually give you an initial edge
You get paid, your act gets paid. Your backstage crew get paid.
over your competition because
Face to face sales are important but there are a lot of websites
once again, people who pay want
that will organize ticket sales for you and the benefit of this is that
to use specialists.
they will pay you money.
Endeavour Magazine | 111
BOOK REVIEWS
D
espite being about murderous plants, “Little Shop of Horrors” it most emphatically is not. Rather, it’s one of the creepiest post-apocalyptic novels I’ve ever read.
The book begins with Bill Masen in hospital, mildly pissed that he’s
missed the spectacle of the century—a meteor shower—because his eyes are bandaged after a triffid sting. Triffids, we learn, are strange, three-legged, mobile plants with an often-fatal stinging tendril. The species appeared mysteriously one day and quickly became a garden favourite—tied to a stake and docked, of course—as well as a widely cultivated source of fuel. Masen worked on a triffid farm, and built up an immunity to their stings; that’s why this one has merely landed him in hospital for a week. Triffids are soon forgotten, though, as Bill realizes that everyone else in the hospital—in fact, everyone who saw the meteor shower—is blind. Removing his bandages and leaving the premises, he wanders about London, watching as it begins to devolve into your typical looting-filled post-apocalyptic chaos. He rescues a young lady named Josella, who was fortunately in bed with a wicked hangover during the meteor shower, and thus can also see. As they encounter other sighted people, it becomes apparent that something must be done, and opinions differ: one party feels obligated to assign sighted people to groups of blind people to guide them to food, water, and shelter; another feels that this will just prolong suffering, and plans to set up a breeding colony to restart civilization. As Bill and Josella struggle to survive, the triffids, which seem to be oddly aware of things, begin to encroach. And to a triffid, anyone who can’t see is a sitting duck. My favourite thing about this book, and about Wyndham’s science fiction in general, is that it’s not concerned with detailing how things came to be as screwed up as they are. No one knows where triffids came from, or how everyone went blind. The point is that this is what happened, so let’s see how one might deal with that. (The topic is not
The Day of the Triffids By John Wyndham http://amzn.to/1cqh778
wholly ignored, as it’s natural for the characters to speculate on things like that, but little is ever resolved.) The book is carefully crafted to showcase different possible ways that people might deal with a disaster: Bill and Josella run into people with various ideas about how to re-establish civilization, and even try some of them out, eventually coming to a conclusion about what sort of society they’ll need to aim at. (Hint: polygyny is encouraged!) So, rather than an abstract discussion about how best to structure society when most people are blind and there are roving stands of dangerous plants about, we get to see how various ideas begin to fall apart in practice. It’s less bleak than you’d expect. While there is plenty of need for sacrificing the few to save the many, it’s contrasted with the inevitable and kind of sweet romance between Josella and Bill. It’s a rather civilized, or at least civil, sort of apocalypse.
112 | Endeavour Magazine
The triffids are woven into the plot gradually. After Masen’s initial narration of what they are, they vanish for a while. Then they kill Josella’s family, having apparently broken into their country house, prompting
The Keepers By Rae Rivers www.raerivers.com
Bill and Josella to acquire antitriffid gear (which consists of protective mask and gloves and a triffid gun; later, flamethrowers are added). Back in London, though,
this
precaution
is
laughed at—there are no triffids in sight. Eventually, though, the triffids start to encroach. As humanity dwindles in number,
T
he Keepers is an exciting new Paranormal Romance series
love between Sienna and her
about three warrior brothers destined to defend a powerful
oldest Keeper, Archer Bennett.
witch. They are her fierce protectors, friends, and allies in
When two evil warlock brothers
maintaining the balance of nature. Three brothers, four stories and
return to their small town of
hot romance!
Rapid Falls, trouble starts to
the triffids congregate around
The Keepers: Sienna is the free Prequel to the series, followed
the last groups of survivors. In
by The Keepers: Archer. These first two books are about Sienna (the
large enough numbers, they
witch) and her Keepers and focuses on the blossoming but forbidden
brew. Will their love survive the ultimate war?
can break down fences. It’s this gradual
appearance,
from
a
garden plant that’s probably the least of everyone’s worries to a menace to the human species, combined with the mystery of their origin, that makes the whole book so creepy. Wyndham has a knack for writing
happy-ish
endings,
wherein things mostly get sorted out, but looming threats are still on the horizon. Without spoiling anything
about
this
book’s
ending, I’ll just say that you don’t just snap out of an apocalypse. The Day of the Triffids is a thoughtful take on how people might respond to the virtual end of civilization, and the extra weirdness of walking predatory plants makes it stand out. I highly recommend it, as I would recommend anything else by Wyndham.
Troy: Fall of The Kings By David Gemmel http://amzn.to/17sar6L
T
roy: Fall of Kings is a historical fantasy novel by British fantasy writer David Gemmell, forming the final part of the Troy Series. It was finished by
his wife, Stella Gemmell, following his death on July 28, 2006 and released under the joint authorship of David and Stella Gemmell. Not to give the game away on the final work of the world’s greatest historic/fantasy series but this book ties in the known history of the period, the legendary stories we all learnt at school with a deeply satisfying story board that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat to the very last page. Written in David’s usual, deeply romanticized fashion, drawing upon well-developed characters who, in his usual manner, stand for something far greater than themselves an anvil of the fantasy genre. The heroes are heroic, the heroines are beautiful and strong and the villains are evil. Endeavour Magazine | 113
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