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SWEDISH AMBASSADOR IN ALBANIA
ELSA HÃ…STAD Sweden Has Made Albanians See Innovation Broadly
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2020 WILL BE Our B e s t Ye a r
Hyatt Hotel
T I A’s CEO
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Arthouse PR
Carl Craen
Sacher Hotel
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La Vie Boheme
Rafting
Ahmed Baki
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EBRD and EU
The Next IHIDC
Finisterra Arrabida
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Sustainable Tights
Mulliri Vjeter
Superbrands
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Flip-and-Fold Design
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The Swedish Invitation
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Low Season Does not Mean Low Profits or Reason for Closing Down the Business
BY JOSE PINTO
O
mullirivjeter.al | info@mullirivjeter.com
wners, Hotel Managers,
concerned including the Ministry of
Tour /Ground Operators
Tourism, Transportation, Airlines,
and Airlines have the
Airport Management, Association
responsibility to maximize their
of Travel Agents identifying the
revenues, keep their human assets
weaknesses and strengths of each
active throughout of the year.
place and develop strategic plans
During my years of experience I
and ways to promote and create
always overcome the seasonality
awareness of the different available
that we service providers have as
resources to the different markets
our “nightmare” by being creative,
around the World. During crises or
innovative and working with all
pandemics GO REGIONAL.
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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Most of us hoteliers, travel agents,
STOP, think about it and ask your IT
By connecting data across multiple
With personalization becoming a
airlines and Tourism Authorities
team.
platforms and use strategically this
priority for many of us that live and
data such can provide patterns and
have our source of income from the
know how to adjust our strategies in anticipation of upcoming trends or
Imagine the golden data capture
many other information that if well
tourism the social media becomes
overcoming short notice adversities
upon arrival of each and every
processed we can prepare well in
a very important tool to arrive to
but we are not used to do things
one, accompanied with origins,
advance your strategy for the season
tourists and visitors across the world
together by and use the collected
precedencies, gender, age,
or even to have an immediate action
in a very quick and efficient manner.
guest/ visitors data provided to us
geographical source, country of
in case of any outbreak of Virus,
Hotels and all service providers
via different sources.
origin, email address , phone and
weather , earthquakes and many
can learn to collate across multiple
all other collected data by the
other factors that can negatively
touch points and data profiling
This key information can and will
different areas who handles tourists
impact your “ profits”.
to deliver a better customer
unlock profitable opportunities
or visitors, that is gold if well used .
experience, by sharing their data.
during traditionally low and medium periods of the year.
Local tourism authorities must lead these actions and together
I’m concerned that we alone or
with other Hospitality / Tourism
in each unit struggle what to do
Sectors must structure and combine
with the data individually instead
data to focus on key periods that
of collectively getting together
need a boost the slow periods by
and use all City, Resort, Country
developing one single action plan
available data and develop
for all.
“magic” to attract customers.
“Social media becomes a very important tool to arrive to tourists and visitors”
The data you and all sectors have on their CRMS is a powerful tool. Many others who don’t have such spent several thousands of Euros in software programs, salaries to capture such, and many of you are not properly managing such valuable data as long-term value. 10
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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Off-Low season promotions
Why not starting with the
Municipalities etc. get together and
this as part of your product, you
are not only important, they
forthcoming Holiday season , let
use the data collected merge funds
will increase revenue and room
are crucial.
Municipalities and local business
and act as one. This my experience
occupancy, and local awareness
as well as multi-national companies
from many years , and can assure
Using the data it bring the
organize city events showing
you it only gave results.
knowledge about your customers
their traditions in the gourmet
and helps to promote specific
and culture areas, schools to
The different tours and events
internal destinations, hotels and
organize their choirs , local Multi-
market are huge and has become a
The business travelers are not
experiences during low or off
national companies sponsoring and
multi- billion dollar global industry.
influenced by seasonal trends
seasons, particularly when it comes
promoting their products etc
By positioning the hotel or Regional
and this helps the tourism sector
to special discounts.
This only can happen if all of
Convention Centers as the focal
continue to thrive all year around,
us at the Minister of Tourism,
point of the destination and offering
but they can react to SOUND
Imagine such, done collectively with
MICE (Meetings-IncentivesConventions-Exhibitions)
promotions.
Airlines, Tour/ Ground Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Municipalities,
The MICE sector is extremely
Ministries and other third parties.
profitable. The combination of
Imagine the “Forza” or Power
meetings, incentives, conventions
and the major advantages when
and exhibitions is now an integral
going to the selected segments recommending local, culture, activities, restaurants, local /
“Why not starting with the forthcoming Holiday season”
regional off season events experiences with spectacular packages. Use whatever is available in your city or area like regional activities of the Municipality, small or large festivals, seasonal sporting events, concerts and pop culture tie-ins to fill the sales gap.
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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
part of the global hospitality
mark as companies will need to
industry.
motivate re incentivize their associates and partners for the new ERA.
Targeting REGIONAL delegations can help even smaller operators groups, particularly the smaller
Albania needs to increase focus in off Season and the MICE Groups are an important area
ones, often tend to look for unique
TO EXPLORE.
earn a healthy profit, as these
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
and tailor-made services in terms of accommodation and tours. More
According to a survey done by
travelers are combining work with
The Incentive Search Foundation,
leisure activities in their business
Incentive Travel is a fundamental
destination, which again presents a
corporate culture builder, within or
great opportunity for travel agents
out of any crises. Resort retreats,
and tour operators to keep sales
annual summits and familiarization
going during off-seasons.
tours or even a day trip are common examples, and ALBANIA as it all for that.
Innovative strategies to maximize revenue are key for all Hospitality service providers, destination management companies and travel agencies. A marketing framework is necessary in order to maximize the scale of profitability during low season. Globally, this industry alone generated more than US$ 1 trillion worldwide in 2017. By 2025, this amount it is predicted to grow to an outstanding US$ 1,5 trillion
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“The project adheres to all European and international building standards, which Gener 2 was the first to begin building with these standards more than 12 years ago. We were the first developers in the market to do so,” says Is Ulaj, the Executive Assistant to the CEO, who, in an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE, elaborate on this innovative project on Albanian market.
one of the best-selling points and buyers highly value the location, especially when they visit the site and see the city and the park from inside the apartment. We are extremely proud to be delivering such a well-rounded development, which will ultimately become a full-fledged, new community. The project adheres to all European and international building standards, which Gener 2 was the first to begin building with these standards more than 12 years ago. We were the
LAKE VIEW RESIDENCES
E
Can you make a panorama of Lake View Residences project and what is its position in the portfolio of projects of Gener2? Set in front of Tirana’s beautiful artificial lake, Lake View Residences
– GENER 2’S MASTERPIECE
is bringing a new way of
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
living to Tirana. Because
first developers in the market to do so. Lake View Residences is just one of several ongoing real estate developments under construction in our real estate portfolio; but it is certainly the largest.
the location offers immediate access to the
xpected to be fully
innovative approaches of Gener 2.
park and to the roadway,
complete by the
Facing the Lake of Tirana, Lake View
the Lake View Residences
end of 2021, Lake
Residences has been designed by
is in high demand by
View Residences will
the principal architect, Marc Joubert
people of every age.
splash its uniqueness
who created the project to resemble
From a developers’ point
the surrounding hills of the city.
of view, the location is
demonstrating once again the
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M OV E R S & S H A K E R S
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such as demand, location,
specifications and amenities,
and build quality. At Lake View Residences, residents
which we deliver and the consistency
and business owners can
of our success. We have a history
be sure that there will be
planted balconies, floor-to-ceiling
of developing iconic buildings in
windows, energy & cost effective
Tirana, including ABA Business
mechanical systems, acoustic
Center, Toptani Shopping Center
insulation, various options for
and others. We aim to keep doing
premium & luxury finishes, the latest
so while challenging the status quo
in smart home technology, private
with every development we take on.
parking spaces, 24/7 security, and
Our products, at all price points,
much more.
have been successful because we
Gener 2 has been developing real
Lake View Residences functionally
emphasize on developing with high
estate for over 20 years and all
resembles a gated community by
quality and focusing on long term
of this experience translates into
design. What many families enjoy in
value for our clients.
particular about the development
Lake View Residences is more than a continued demand for just a wise investment. Through properties in this neighborhood this project, Gener 2 is raising the as families shift their lifestyle bar for development in Tirana. preferences for more convenience, A home is an important part of amenities, and to live closer to everyday life. It is where families are nature. raised, where memories are made, and a place where we feel safest. But a home is also an asset. An asset which should retain its value and increase in value. When it comes to real estate, not all properties or homes are the same and provide the same potential upside value. Value is determined by several factors
such as separate entrances
each and every ongoing project, including Lake View Residences. Our reputation in the market has been built on the quality of the products
20
What can you say about the standards and the services this multidimensional project offers? This development offers top class
for residents and businesses,
is the safety, shopping and food convenience and the outdoor courtyards and play areas for their children. Also the multitude of cafes, 21
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
obstructed views from
spaces. This is an important security
the adjust buildings and
and convenience feature which
shadows. If you find
rarely exists in other developments
yourself taking a walk
in Tirana. The underground
near the lake in Tirana,
floors contain 950 parking spaces
you won’t miss Lake View
and areas for storage. In total,
Residences. It will stand
the development is an area
out from anything else
of 129,000 m2.
you’ve seen.
When do you predict to complete
Can you walk me through the different phases of Lake View Residences? What are
this project? Lake View Residences is expected to be fully complete, with residents
some top facts about it? restaurants and businesses opening
of the concept design, created the
inside, are all planned to be part
project to resemble the surrounding
topped out since last January and
of the community offerings and are
hills of the city. Not only is this
most of the interior walls of the
tailored with the residents in mind. It
design very aesthetic, but there are
residences are complete. The curtain
is perfect for families to safely enjoy
functional purposes to it as well. For
wall is currently being installed
their neighborhood, do their grocery
example, the structural shape of the
along with the building’s mechanical
shopping and run their errands,
buildings with the tapering balconies
works. The two worksites that make
without ever having to leave the
from floor-to-floor, creates great
up Lake View Residences consist
complex, if they choose to.
views from each building and each
of 7 structures, with a total of 600
floor. Additionally, this structural
elegantly designed apartments, each
shape allows sunlight to enter the
of which is unique. The ground floor
complex and provide sunshine to
and first floor are designated for
every window. This wouldn’t be the
commercial use, while the next 15
case if the buildings didn’t have
floors up are all residential floors.
the taper and were designed as
The access points are separate for
traditional towers. There would be
the commercial and residential
What do you value most from an artistic and architectural viewpoint when designing Lake View Residences? How harmoniously is this project interconnected to the prime location in this case? Marc Joubert, the principal architect
22
All of the buildings have
and businesses to begin moving in, by the end of 2021. If you would like more information on this development, please visit our website at www.lakeview.al, where you can find more information or explore the virtual tour feature, or our social media pages. We post great content periodically.
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THE BALKANS’ICON
TIRANA BOSCO VERTICALE TIRANA VERTICAL FOREST
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
Gener 2 is both the developer and the builder of Vertical Forest Tirana, a project which bears the signature of the Italian architect, Stefano Boeri. It bears many challenges in comparison with the traditional buildings but Gener 2 does it all when it comes to an eco-friendly environment and happier & healthier clients. “The level of detail in the design, the precision in the execution of the structure, and the overall project itself, once complete, will be an icon in the Balkan region. We are extremely proud to be facilitators of this development,” says Is Ulaj, Executive Assistant to CEO in his exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE. The studio led by Italian architect Stefano Boeri came up with the concept of Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, as a way to combine high-density residential development with tree planting in city centres. This was also a way to stimulate biodiversity. “Working with a team of consultants such as Stefano Boeri Architetti, SCE Project, ESA Engineering and others, is proving to be an excellent experience for us,” Ulaj says.
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ARCHITECTURE
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Full interview below:
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Verticale in Milan. Working with a
the façade. So, you can say that
this project is part of an urban
team of consultants such as Stefano
the living parts of the façade are
plan titled “Tirana 2030,” which
How important is Gener 2’s
Boeri Architetti, SCE Project, ESA
literally growing simultaneously to
specifically aims to promote these
involvement in the development
Engineering and others, is proving
the building’s structure. It’s quite
developments and to generally
of Vertical Forest Tirana project?
to be an excellent experience for
interesting. The building itself will
improve nature densification
Gener 2 is both the developer
us. The level of detail in the design,
be a living thing.
throughout Tirana.
and the builder of this project.
the precision in the execution of the
The Vertical Forest concept was
structure, and the overall project
The Vertical Forest Tirana is
such as these because we, ourselves,
developed by Stefano Boeri of
itself, once complete, will be an
considered as the most innovative
are innovators in our market. We’ll
SBA, a world renowned architect,
icon in the Balkan region. We are
skyscraper in the country,
always embrace ideas which are for
who has designed several green
extremely proud to be facilitators of
dominated by natural features.
the common good. Tirana is heading
buildings and properties throughout
this development.
Do you think this is a model of
in the right direction in terms of
future for the city of Tirana?
tackling environmental issues and its
the world, most notably, Bosco
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Gener 2 absolutely welcomes ideas
“will be an icon in the Balkan region”
How challenging is this project
This trend
given its specific ecosystem which
seems to be
interprets the environmental
gaining traction
context?
throughout
There are a couple of challenges
the world, and
with this sort of development. But,
we certainly
with SBA’s experience, we are able
hope it continues. Although the
to overcome them. For example, the
development challenges are
trees that will be planted into the
more difficult than for traditional
balconies specifically needed to be
buildings, the advantages such as a
chosen to survive the Mediterranean
positive environmental impact and
climate that we have in Albania.
happier & healthier clients, are well
Additionally, the trees have been
worth it. Tirana can certainly gain
planted exactly 2 years in advance
from these trends by utilizing less
of when the project timeline calls to
land, regenerating and densifying
install them. This is to ensure that
vegetation, reducing pollution
the plants are at perfect maturity
and reducing the environmental
for when they are planted into
impacts of urbanization. In fact, 27
future is certainly exciting, bound to be improve yearover-year.
ARCHITECTURE
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TOURISM
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ELSA
HÅSTAD SWEDEN HAS MADE ALBANIANS SEE INNOVATION BROADLY
T
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
he October edition
SMEs that are an important part
of TRAILBLAZING
of the economic development,”
MAGAZINE goes
Håstad says.
to the Swedish
In addition, she highlights that
Ambassador of
“Sweden is a country of innovators.
Albania, H.E. Elsa Håstad to talk at
This is very much Sweden. We are
length about the Challenge Fund,
famous for our innovations. We are
its impact on Albanian startups,
proud of this! In this context, we
the key role of SMEs and Albania’s
were thinking how we can support
potential in them. As well as the
Albanian innovations.”
chances that Sweden signs the
What is far more important for
next seven-year long strategy
the top diplomat is that Sweden
with Albania.
has managed to change the
Talking about Challenge Fund and
Albanians’ mindset when it comes to
its criteria, Ambassador Håstad
innovation. “We want to support a
underlines why Sweden is interested
new way of thinking and may be this
in supporting Albanian startups.
is the most important contribution
“Well, for Sweden, this is a way to
to Albania.”
support Albania in its EU accession
According to her, “we hope that this
process because you need to have
concept of innovation that is not
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We want to support a new way of thinking
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Adventurous Touristic Guides in Shkodra Lake
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Full interview with Ambassador
Second, Sweden is a country of
Elsa Håstad follows:
innovators. This is very much
We’re excited to learn from your experience with Challenge Fund in Albania. Could you expand on it? I am happy to. Let me start from the beginning. Why is Sweden interested in supporting Albanian startups? Well, for Sweden, this is a way to support Albania in its EU accession process because you need to have SMEs that are an important part of the economic development. So, this is
Albanians can think of innovation in a broader way. only technical solution but it can
without its presence.
be an intellectual solution as well
Working with human rights since
will be spread in Albania. So, the
1997, Håstad came to Albania
Albanians can think of innovation in
on September 2019 standing out
a broader way.”
for her high commitment and the
Håstad also talked of Sweden’s aim
initiatives in the fields that Sweden
to give the assignment of funding
is engaged heavily in Albania like
the startups in Albania to some
innovation, democracy/human
other entity which could do that
rights and environment/economic
our entry point. Also I would like to state that we do that in cooperation with the EU Delegation and Germany, so it is really an European effort.
Sweden. We are famous for our innovations. We are proud of this! In this context, we were thinking how we can support Albanian innovations. For us, the innovation is a new solution to a problem. For us, as an Embassy innovation is definitely not about technical new ideas, it is not about applications on your mobile. No, it is mindset. You see something and you want to change and you find a new way of addressing it. That’s innovative thinking. So we want to promote that. We want to support startups’ funding, so they can go on living and we provide three different levels of the support they can get.
development.
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But we also want to support a new
continue. Perhaps you fail but you
a lot of professional advice. So we
feedback online. You can also get
way of thinking and may be this is
learn as well. Sometimes we should
believe that this approach boosts
back and everyone can look at the
the most important contribution to
celebrate failures.
their business ideas.
final feedbacks. So you can learn
Albania. Because as you know, we
from each other. I think this is super
travel around Albania because we
What has hit you most about the
Let me go back to your previous
important. So, this is our way of
are convinced that these innovative
Albanian winners of Challenge
question. One feature about our
really making sure this competition
ideas are all over the country. So we
Fund? Are they eager to
innovation program in Albania
is transparent, online and equal
travelled around Albania with our
learn more about the Swedish
is openness and transparency.
to everyone.
team and we gathered people from
traditional spirit in startups?
Therefore we introduced the
North to South and invited them to
May be it has not been so much
application online because it is also
We have been focused on the
talk about innovation. We do our
about telling the stories of Swedish
important that we of course have
criteria as well because they are
discussion online now. If there are
innovators. But it has been a story
zero tolerance against corruption.
also what we are looking for. If you
of supporting ideas
This way, we do not come
are out of Tirana, you get extra
and I think the startups
across people saying that some
points because we are really looking
that have applied
applications had an easier way of
for people outside the capital. If
including those which
getting funding. No, this process is
you can create employment, you
have reached the last
transparent and equal to everyone.
get extra points, too. The more
level have got also a lot
You apply online and then you get
employment you create, more points
150 people attending this discussion and out of them, five are selected, important is that these 150 people are listening many things about innovation and its
“Sometimes we should celebrate failures.”
of feedback. Because in this competition, even if you have got
connection with their businesses. Perhaps they will be
as far as to the final stage, we
innovators later. I think that is our
provide professional feedback
biggest contribution.
to these applicants from a group
Also I would like to add a final
of experienced entrepreneurs
note. If you have a personal idea
from Sweden or other countries.
and if this one is creative enough,
This means that they comment
innovative enough, you can get a
on the applicants’ business ideas
small funding to make this idea true.
encouragingly. Even if they don’t get
Sometimes you don’t need much to
the funding in the end, they receive
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
you get. If you have women who
platform for schools and parents
and sleep. It is actually more than
What are the long-term priorities
are leading the business or have
to communicate with each other.
that. You transform tourism in an
of Sweden when it comes to
managerial positions, you get extra
This innovation, called Pi-platform,
experience. Personally I think that
boosting technology and startups
points as well. Of course, we want to
is good even in the times of the
this kind of tourism is the future of
in Albania?
encourage gender equality.
current Covid-19 pandemic. The
Albania.
Thank you also for this important
If you think about environment,
schools can buy this digital platform
you get extra points. And finally
which does not cost much. This
I was listening the presentations
things. One is of course that we
if you have some social ideas,
platform is active in Sweden too.
of some of the applicants. One of
hope that this concept of innovation
social entrepreneurship, you get
The Pi-platform avoids the physical
them, working on the innovative
that is not only technical solution
extra points. This is our way of
contacts.
tourism, showed through statistics,
but it can be an intellectual solution
encouraging this process.
question. I think there are several
that mass tourism The other one consisted in the new
in Albania is
On another note, if I will share some
way of looking at tourism. In this
going down and
of the inspirational or interesting
context, we have awarded some
environmental or
winners of Challenge Fund, I would
startups who could present a new
adventure tourism
like to provide a variety. So I have
way of looking at tourism. So, it
is going up. I found
been thinking about three cases.
is sustainable, environmentally
these figures very
One is about the creation of a digital
friendly and it is not only about food
interesting. I think
“You transform tourism in an experience.”
in Albania. So, the Albanians can think of innovation in a broader way. On the other hand, what we intend is to give the assignment
this is right for Albania. You cannot
of funding the startups in Albania
accumulate massive tourism as this
to some other entity who could
damages Albania’s beautiful nature.
do it without us. We have actually
Another case that attracted my
supported five entities who are
attention was the innovation of
potential to take this over. There are
a father and his son. They both
two - three civil society organizations
invented a drone to spray the upper
and two universities. We have
part of the pine trees which were
supported them and we hope they
stricken by a worm infection. I found
can continue on our way. So that is
it very creative as an idea. As you
super important because we want
see there is a variety and I think this
this to stay. That is one thing.
is the beauty of all this.
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as well will be spread
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The other side, if I talk in a more
That’s why it is so great to grow
general level, is that Sweden’s
them. Our support comes in handy
seven-year long strategy with
in this respect.
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Albania is coming to an end. As you know, this agreement
How would you define the overall
consists in funding three areas:
influence of Challenge Fund for
innovation, democracy/human
Albanian startups so far?
rights and environment/economic
I think that our biggest impact is
development. We are now writing
that we have managed to change
a new strategy, our government is
the concept of innovation. That
making a decision on it, meaning
is innovation is not only technical
we can go for another seven years.
which is the first thing everyone
It is not yet signed, there is still
think about but it is actually
some work to be done by both
promoting ideas and intellectual
countries and our decision makers.
ideas. I think that is what I see
But what we know is that they want
already happening now in Albania.
this agreement to be signed for the next seven years, so it is a sort of oral confirmation. This is super important. If we have this strategy again, it gives us the predictability to work on these key areas for the next seven years. During these years, we will work to give the assignment of funding startups to another entity. To become a EU member, having strong and well functional SMEs is fundamental. This is key for every country. Albania has a great
Shkodra Lake
potential when it comes to SMEs. 36
37
SCHUCO’S PRODUCTS, THE MOST DEMANDED IN ALBANIA FOR QUALITY AND LONG LIFE
P
eople want the best product for their homes and this is a fact! Here Alukoenigstahl comes in with its best-selling qualitative and longlife products.
“Alukoenigstahl is a company with almost 160 years of experience and among Schüco is also a Licensed & Strategic Partner of two other European Brands like Jansen (Artists in Thermally Insulated Steel Systems) and Warema (The German Power of Sun Shading Systems). Schüco itself is the Leading World Company in the Aluminium Window/ Doors/Facades Systems Innovations,” explains Arbi Hasani, Sales and Technical Representative at Alukoenigstahl Office in Tirana.
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BUSINESS
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
How is Alukoenigstahl Office in Tirana going on and can you relate on its main projects in Albania for
According to him, the Albanian market is hunting for the products of Schüco.
the last five years?
After mentioning some of the
Our Alukoenigstahl Office in Tirana
most conspicuous projects
is building up every day and this
Alukoenigstahl Office in Tirana
is well shown in the local projects
has accomplished, Hasani says that Schüco Window Systems AWS Series and Schüco Façade Systems FWS Series are very high on
portfolio increase of the company. “Portfolio increase of Schüco Various Systems happens every year, is happening right now
of System Engineers, Architects are involved in projecting, developing
& Strategic Partner of two other
70. HI.
European Brands like Jansen (Artists in Thermally Insulated Steel Systems)
What are the products most in
and Warema (The German Power
demand and why?
of Sun Shading Systems). Schüco
demand are Schüco Window Systems
few honorable ones:
in the Aluminium Window/Doors/
AWS Series and Schüco Façade
Facades Systems Innovations.
Systems FWS Series. The reason is
There are always persons that want
that the market in general has begun
the best product for their homes
Facades of the
to reach out qualitative and long-
National Theatre
and this is a
life products, and
Ensemble using
fact! Regarding
which World Brand
our systems Schüco
other than Schüco
AWS/ADS 70. HI and
could accomplish
Schüco FWS 50,
their demands?! We
b) Biggest
are proud to offer
“This is the BEST moment of my work”
of Anoria Company using Schüco
their eyes when they first try using
FACID (the Textile Façade),
portfolio increase?
the products and see the difference!
As I mentioned above, Schüco is
This is the BEST moment of my
the Leading World Company in the
work! I could say it loud!
Aluminium Window/Doors/Facades
Partners using Schüco FWS 50 and Schüco AWS/ADS 65, e) MK Hotel in Tirana Business Park
40
is NO Progress!”
Any plans for expansion or
accomplished by our regional
various target groups.”
Competition there
and then watch the satisfaction in
new Administrative Building
perfecting its systems for the
say: “Without
Offices & Showroom
d) Albanian Football Association
their annual TO in innovations,
I could only
them this product
AWS 75. BS,
“Schüco invests most part of
Competitors
Administrative
the heart of Tirana using Schüco
or innovations!,” he says, adding
in Bulgaria using Schüco AWS/ADS
itself is the Leading World Company
c) Tirana For Ever Green Tower in
and testing system improvements
among Schüco is also a Licensed
we’ve accomplished. I can mention a
“Perfecting its systems for the various target groups”
actually. Hundreds
accomplished by our regional office
The products that are most in
a) Restauration of Windows/Doors/
demand in the market. He also confirms the
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
What drives this keen interest of Alukoenigstahl in Albania and further in the Balkans versus other competitors? Alukoenigstahl is a company with almost 160 years of experience and
Systems Innovations. This means that portfolio increase of Schüco Various Systems happens every year, is happening right now actually. Hundreds of System Engineers, Architects are involved in projecting, developing and testing system
41
BUSINESS
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
improvements or innovations!
significant hit worldwide businesses.
Schüco invests most part of their
As I mentioned above, our Company
annual TO in innovations, perfecting
is 160 years old, which means has
its systems for the various target
successfully surpassed other crisis as
groups, of which I could mention
well like the Great Depression 1930s,
Architects (creating the most
the 2008 Real Estate Crisis starting
beautiful freedom design systems),
in the US, etc. Not only incentives
Metal Producers (developing ways
and project related discounts were
BUSINESS
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
X H E K O
Spa
reviewed and applied, but our On
“This is a small part of what makes our Added Value!
Field Service didn’t cease to assist
and systems easy to produce and
Value!
our Partners (always respecting adequate security measures). We also came out with a few Digital solutions to best assist and inform our Partners about the innovations and system improvements. This is a small part of what makes our Added
(offering a long-life sustainability and energy efficiency recuperation to their building envelopes), having in its focus the end customer/ user (creating easy accessible, manageable and secure systems). Has the company come up with any incentives to assist the clients in these hard times of pandemic? It is true that this situation has shocked the world and gave a
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FACILITIES
install, time-cost saving), Investors
C L U B
SAUNA STEAM ROOM TURKISH BATH FITNESS CLASSIC MASSAGE BALI & THAI MASSAGE SHIRODHARA MASSAGE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
2020 WILL BE Our Best Year Emiland Skora, President and Director of Operations at Mediterranean Exports Imports Albania (MEIA), a leading essential oil exporter in Albania, says that 2020 looks great for the company with 25 % increase in sales.
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EXPORT
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“We pride ourselves on producing the highest quality essential oils in the market,” SKORA SAYS IN AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE.
H
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
When does your story begin?
How did you get into oils? What
MEIA started their production in 2011
were you before starting MEIA?
at their first distillery just outside of
I was working in finance in
the capital city of Tirana.
California,USA while planning on
Where does your company Mediterranean Exports Imports Albania stand and how much is it expanded over the last 10 years? As of today, MEIA is the leading essential oil exporter in Albania and we are well on our way to became
e started the
Berry, Bay Laurel, Myrtle, St John’s
a leader in the region. 2020 will be
company in 2011 in
Wort and Rose Hip oil.
our best year yet with a 25% increase
Albania once he was
opening a business back home in Albania. Given Albania’s rich history and tradition of producing high quality essential oils and combined with our family’s farming experience, I decided to start an essential oil distillery.
in sales. The company has one distillery
back from California,
in Northern Albania, near the city
USA.
“I was working in finance in
of Koplik while it will build a new
California, USA while planning on
distillery in the south Albania,
opening a business back home in
nearby the city of Sarandë.
Albania. Given Albania’s rich history
Can you share some of the main essential herbs’oils that you produce with our readers and how can they sample them? What are their benefits? Our main oils are; Helichrysum,
and tradition of producing high
Lavender, Juniper Berry, Bay Laurel,
quality essential oils and combined
Myrtle, St John’s Wort and Rose Hip
with our family’s farming experience,
oil. For everyone that would like
I decided to start an essential oil
to sample our oils, they can visit
distillery,” MEIA President says.
Aromatherapy Store near downtown
Aiming to expand in cold pressed
Tirana, where they also try other
oils as well as herb and spice
natural products made with our
exporting, MEIA produces as main
essential oils. And of course, they
oils: Helichrysum, Lavender, Juniper
can also visit our beautiful distillery in Northern Albania, near the city of Koplik. 46
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
What does your production process look like? How does MEIA go from plants into a product in your customers’ hands? How do
compare to their own test results. We pride ourselves on producing the highest quality essential oils in
you market them?
the market.
We are a unique company in Albania
What is your next focus of area
as we control the entire process from
for MEIA?
seed to oil. We start growing our
We are expanding in cold pressed
plants at our nursery where they stay
oils as well as herb and spice
for a period of 6-8 months and after
exporting. Soon we will also build a
that we plant them in our fields.
new distillery in the south Albania,
Most of our herbs take about 2 years
nearby the city of Sarandë.
to get in production, time which we use to take care of them in order to grow the best essential oil yielding and the highest quality. During harvest and distillation, plants go through a quality check before they are loaded in the distilling tanks to ensure no other herbs are mixed with the distilling material.
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
“We are a unique company in Albania
As for the distillation process, we make sure that the oil is distilled on a low temperature and pressure without being rushed so that we can capture all the best components. After distillation, we send all necessary testing results which we do pre-harvest and during distillation, which our clients
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I HOPE HYATT REGENCY TIRANA BECOMES THE BEST HOTEL IN TIRANA BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
T
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
akuya Aoyama,
FULL INTERVIEW FOLLOWS
Vice President of
BELOW:
Development for
Let’s start from what we are going
Hyatt International
to have here in Albania – Hyatt
(EMEA) LLC shares
Regency Hotel in Tirana. At
with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE his
what stage are the works at this
expectations about Hyatt Regency
Hotel? What are the prospective
Hotel in Tirana, expected to
assessments that you have in your
conclude in the beginning of 2022,
mind about it?
while discusses tourism in pandemic
This started as a straightforward
times and the general tourism
exercise involving refurbishment,
developments in Albania.
branding and repositioning of the existing hotel, but the project has
The hotel developer with Hyatt since
become part of the urban planning
2008 encourages an environmentally
that covers the area around to the
and socially sustainable
National Stadium. The scope now
tourism in Albania.
is refurbishment and extension of
“I hope there will be lot of emphasis
the hotel which will see a larger
on authenticity and that people
room inventory, more event space
would focus more on value and less
and more dining option and which,
on volume, and I don’t want to see
we hope, will better integrate the
branded hotels everywhere,” he says
hotel to the life of the city.
in this exclusive interview, adding
“I hope there will be lot of emphasis on authenticity “
“I can imagine branded properties on the coast, but I would rather like to see family-run inns and hotels, or concepts like albergo diffuso in other locations.”
Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas 50
51
LUXU RY H OT E L
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
What are your expectations about
hygiene protocols. Now the focus
just opened Hyatt Regency Sofia
Now let us talk about Albania. Event
this Hotel?
is about getting people to stay at
on 1 September despite all the
of the last 6 months has exposed
I hope that Hyatt Regency Tirana
hotels again and giving them as
challenges associated with COVID.
the vulnerability of tourism/hotel
would become the best hotel in
good a level of service as possible
People are meant to believe in
industry. It has also crystalized
Tirana, best venue for meetings and
under various restrictions. Resort
future and they just do not stop
some of the excesses of the mass
social events and best place to meet
hotels in populous countries have
living just because of a pandemic.
tourism model which the world has
with friends and families. Equally
done well this summer and city
Having said this, the current
built. I hope we will learn a lesson
important—this is actually the most
hotels had varied results depending
situation is making it difficult to plan
from all this and start doing things
important thing for me-- is that this
on local conditions, and I trust we
anything with certainty, and many
differently. I hope that Albania’s
hotel will create an opportunity
will continue to learn to adjust to
prospective owners are asking for
policymakers and other stakeholders
for Albanian colleagues to join the
evolving situations.
more flexibility when negotiating
would develop the industry in a
their contracts.
Hyatt family. Project pipeline, thankfully, has not What are your predictions to finish
shrunk, and people are continuing
How do you see yourself regarding
the project?
to plan and build and open hotels.
the projects in the region, in Albania
If all goes by the plan, the hotel
For instance, my colleagues have
and further? Are they on hold?
should be ready to open towards the beginning of 2022. In your view, how are the hotels generally resuming their work amidst COVID -19 pandemic and how is this going to influence on their further operations? I think hoteliers of the world have tried to and are still trying to figure out how to cope with the calamity of this scale. As we all know the emphasis, initially, was about saving jobs and saving businesses, then the industry has worked out all sorts of 52
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LUXU RY H OT E L
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
In which city or in which area of
way which is environmentally and
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
etc. —should not be left out. I
socially sustainable. Tourism should
Albania, would you like to see
hope there will be lot of emphasis
not erode traditional lifestyle or
another Hyatt? Close to the coast
on authenticity and that people
cause depopulation of its host
or archaeological sites or ...
would focus more on value and
communities.
I think it would be inevitable that
less on volume, and I don’t want
Who would want to visit a place
Albania would see many hotel and
to see branded hotels everywhere.
overrun by other tourists and
tourism projects on its coast, but
Let us not forget that many of the
souvenir shops? Who would prefer
development of coastal tourism
highly rated hotels and resorts are
to eat some imported food in a
and related infrastructure should
not internationally branded. I can
faceless chain restaurant when it is
be carried out as integral part of
imagine branded properties on
possible to enjoy locally sourced
the nationwide tourism strategy,
the coast, but I would rather like
produce in a locally-run eatery?
and all those inland destinations
to see family-run inns and hotels,
— Berat, Pogradec, the mountains
or concepts like albergo diffuso in other locations.
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LUXU RY H OT E L
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TIA’s CEO:
Still Heavily Impacted and Doing Our Best for our Passengers” BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
C
onstantin von
According to him, “we are
Alvensleben,
rather still heavily impacted
appointed
and doing our best to
CEO of Tirana
provide convenient and safe
International
services to our passengers.”
Airport (TIA) since
However, Constantin von
September 2, 2019, talks with
Alvensleben confirms that
TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE
TIA is also preparing for the
about the current challenges
post COVID tourism boom.
of TIA in pandemic times.
“It is key to establish
“If you ask me what has
good and regular working
changed in our operation
connections with the tour
– then the most important
operators. In the end they
TIA welcomes all airlines to do the same as Wizz Air: to base
aspect is that we are strictly
organize the incoming traffic.
one or several aircraft here in Rinas. The conditions are good
following the health rules
For this we are very happy,
here, and TIA provides efficient service. The key to attracting
applicable in this situation,
because the Albanian tour
further airlines to do the same is in my eyes the lifting of the
such as regular disinfection,
operators have been fast
travel restrictions of the European Union for Albanian citizens
keeping of the physical
in the last few months to
as well as the quarantine rules of many countries (upon
distance, taking of body
organize charter traffic from
returning back from Albania or other West Balkan countries).
temperature etc. We have
those countries which did not
Once we have overcome such rules and restrictions, I expect
not at all passed this crisis,”
have travel restrictions such
to be rapidly back to old traffic levels.
Alvensleben says in this
as Belarus, Ukraine, Poland
exclusive interview.
(at least for a number of
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T R A N S P O R T, A I R P O R T S
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
airport. However, TIA is doing very
weeks) and so on,” he said.
12th March of this year. We were
Marketing the Albanian tourism at
left only with humanitarian, cargo
What is the strategy of TIA
well developing its point-to-point
international conferences, such as
and repatriation flights for three
management and operations
flights, but also feeder flights to
ITB in Berlin – if it takes place in
months. Since mid-June, TIA opened
on medium and long -term
other hub airports. Even under the
2021, or otherwise in 2022 is another
up again for commercial flights.
transformation of the airport to
conditions of the pandemic, Wizz
aspect of TIA’s efforts.
However, we are currently still at
be the new hub in the Southeast
Air based three aircraft here at TIA
less than 50% of our 2019 traffic, and
Europe?
in June and has added a lot of new
The TIA’s CEO also encourages the
– if you ask me what has changed
It would be nice to establish a
destinations to our airport, such as
other airlines to do like WizzAir
in our operation – then the most
hub here at Rinas, and I thank you
Berlin-Schoenefeld, Paris-Beauvais,
did: to base one or several aircraft
important aspect is that we are
for the compliment. However, a
Brussels-Charleroi and so on. This is
here in Rinas. “The key to attracting
strictly following the health rules
hub requires connecting traffic,
just an example for what is possible.
further airlines to do the same
applicable in this situation, such as
so passengers changing at TIA
Other examples are Albawings to
is in my eyes the lifting of the
regular disinfection, keeping of the
from one flight of an airline onto
Hamburg or Belavia to Minsk. The
travel restrictions of the European
physical distance, taking of body
another flight of the same airline.
more destinations we have here, the
Union for Albanian citizens as well
temperature etc. We have not at
This would require that one of the
better. And at one day I also hope
as the quarantine rules of many
all passed this crisis. We are rather
local based airline can offer hub
that we will have connecting traffic,
countries (upon returning back
still heavily impacted and doing our
services. Unfortunately, we have not
or so-called self-connecting traffic,
from Albania or other West Balkan
best to provide convenient and safe
reached such stage yet, and cannot
where a passenger changes from
countries),” he said, adding “Once
services to our passengers.
compare us with an international hub
one airline to another.
we have overcome such rules and restrictions, I expect to be rapidly
Thinking of the future post-COVID
back to old traffic levels.”
tourism, that is expected to be a new boom in a new era, what is
Since your taking over, what have
TIA preparing to have ready for
been the quick, medium-term and
that time?
future improvements on services?
Indeed, TIA is preparing for this. It
After the record-breaking year 2019
is key to establish good and regular
with 3,33 million passengers TIA was
working connections with the tour
faced with the COVID-19 pandemic,
operators. In the end they organize
which led to a nearly complete
the incoming traffic. For this we are
lockdown of TIA’s activities starting
very happy, because the Albanian 58
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T R A N S P O R T, A I R P O R T S
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tour operators have been fast in the
to be rapidly back to old traffic
As regards ticket prices, the airlines
If one lesson can be drawn, then
last few months to organize charter
levels.
are responsible for fixing them. And
it is the lesson that the situation
ticket prices as a matter of fact are
can change from one moment to
traffic from those countries which did not have travel restrictions such
TIA is known to have been an
higher if there is no competition on
another. Who would have thought
as Belarus, Ukraine, Poland (at least
expensive airport to the airlines.
a route, and much lower, if there is
that after 2019 we would be down
for a number of weeks) and so on.
Do you think TIA will be more
competition. Therefore, the most
to practically zero traffic in March
We will also contribute to marketing
flexible on the fees to attract
important instrument to drive down
up to 15th June. But that we would
the Albanian tourism at international
more low-cost airlines?
ticket prices is the promotion of
also be able to start up so fast again
conferences, such as ITB in Berlin –
TIA is not an expensive airport to
competition. Here, TIA is very active
thereafter, even considering the
if it takes place in 2021, or otherwise
the airlines. Its pricing is very close,
as you can see from the acquisition
many restrictions which we are now
in 2022.
or even identical or lower than
of Wizz Air.
facing due to COVID. It is indeed a challenge to run this
comparable regional airports. Also, Given the concession to Wizz
one should never forget, that the
This month, you complete
airport and to run this company, but
Air to use Tirana as a base, is
airport charges only constitute a
one year in Albania since your
TIA has a capable staff and people
TIA ready for other airlines to
very small portion of airline costs.
appointment. How do you find the
here are working hard. All of us,
expand?
The most important cost factors for
challenge of running TIA? Can you
we are proud to work here, and we
TIA welcomes all airlines to do the
airlines are kerosene, crew cost and
share any other experience you
feel responsible for our airport.
same as Wizz Air: to base one or
aircraft cost.
have had in Albania besides work?
And besides work? I appreciate
several aircraft here in Rinas. The
the opportunity to discover parts
conditions are good here, and TIA
of Albania, which I still don’t know,
provides efficient service. The key to
even after I have stayed here already
attracting further airlines to do the
in 2006/ 2007 for the first time.
same is in my eyes the lifting of the
Albania has many beautiful but
travel restrictions of the European
somewhat hidden place such as its
Union for Albanian citizens as well
National Parks – in addition to the
as the quarantine rules of many
wonderful coast.
countries (upon returning back from Albania or other West Balkan countries). Once we have overcome such rules and restrictions, I expect
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T R A N S P O R T, A I R P O R T S
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Luxurious Pool Suite at Gabbiano Azzurro
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MARKETING
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Sharon runs 3 businesses from home in Tuscany, Italy: • Arthouse PR: A leading international PR and Communications Agency working in the luxury, lifestyle and travel industries. • Envy Italy: A luxury lifestyle and travel magazine which showcases the very best travel experiences in Italy • Bella Terra – A garden design and
Sharon and Gary Kilby, the motor
landscape architecture business.
behind ARTHOUSE’s success.
She lives in the countryside (miles from anyone and
Arthouse PR,
anything) in Tuscany with her husband Gary who is also her business partner in Arthouse
20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN HOSPITALITY AND INTERIORS MARKET
PR and her 2 children aged 20 and 15. Her life in Tuscany
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
is always busy with work, gardening and restoring
Sharon Finnigan Kilby, Creative Director of Arthouse
the house.
PR, Tuscany, Italy talks about her company, its business model, the major brands it advertises and how she is coping with such abnormal times we are living in due to COVID-19 pandemics. Villa del Golfo Lifestyle Resort Interior
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running too but on a smaller scale.
We have arranged 100s of press
Since that time the hospitality side
trips around the world including
of our business has taken priority
numerous group trips to desirable 5*
with many of our clients being
destinations including Great Britain,
hotels, resorts, wineries and travel
Iceland and of course Italy. Our
designers.
press trips are unique and authentic and include cultural experiences
Thank you Sharon for taking our
side of the business grew, and
questions! Tell us a little about
we then also started working with
Arthouse and its history?
hospitality clients such as golf clubs,
I established Arthouse PR in the
hotels, spas, interior designers for
UK in 2001. After spending several
hotels etc. From 2007 the business
years working in PR, I had made
has supported both these industries
some good journalist contacts in
and we now focus on the following
the Interior Design industry and
sectors: Interior Design and
decided to go freelance with a
Lifestyle; Travel, Luxury and Lifestyle.
handful of small clients such as
More often than not, these
kitchen designers, architects and
intertwine and most of our clients
bathroom companies. Arthouse PR
fall under the ‘hospitality interiors’
grew quickly, and we soon had a
banner.
portfolio of 10 plus clients and an
In 2015 we opened our office in
office with several key staff. From
Italy (we moved to Tuscany full
2001 onwards the Interior Design
time in 2007) keeping our UK office
64
What is the mission of Arthouse and
such as gastronomic events and
can you mention some of the results
outdoor adventures.
achieved until early this year?
From Snowmobiling on a glacier in
Arthouse PR’s key to success is
Iceland to Scuba diving in Sardinia,
introducing our clients to influential
Truffle-Hunting in Tuscany to Wine-
journalists worldwide. We bridge the
tasting in a Venetian Palazzo, our
gap between our clients’ brands and
press trips are fun-filled and truly
the global media. This interaction
memorable.
“We organise authentic experiences for journalist”
What are the main brands Arthouse advertise and what do you offer to the new brands that are looking to promote themselves? Why should they choose Arthouse?
allows our clients to be represented
Our portfolio is varied but includes
in magazines and online all over the
some prestigious hotels, interior
world.
design brands and wineries, our
One way of showcasing our clients to
latest projects include:
their potential client/customer/guest is through exclusive press trips. We
Monterosola – Award winning
organise authentic experiences for
contemporary wine estate in Tuscany
journalists and B2B connections
Villa del Golfo Lifestyle Resort –
such as travel agencies and wedding
5* luxury hospitality property in
planners.
Sardinia
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Has the current situation made you
local foods and wines.
when travel is permitted freely and
rethink of your business and the new
We are upping or level of online
safely again. We are working with an
ways to revive it in the future?
communications and phone calls
award-winning English film-maker in
Yes absolutely. Many of our annual
and using Linked-in to meet new
Florence to offer this service to our
press and B2B trips have been
contacts (we normally attend lots of
clients in the future.
postponed to 2021. We have
industry events).
Sharing knowledge and experiences through tutorials is massive, so for
had to diversify our methods of communications. This is two-fold:
We are also planning much further
example we are encouraging our
we have reverted to some more
ahead. For example, we are
clients to share recipes, wine tasting
classic forms of communication and
formulating new and exciting press
and creative/cultural experiences.
adapted to more advanced modern
tours for 2021 – the post COVID-19
Following a phone-meeting with
Marrone + Mesubim – Designers of
forms of promotion.
period will be a chance to showcase
Monterosola winery this morning
super-sleek Italian kitchens
With very few face to face meetings
new and diverse travel experiences.
they have agreed to produce a guide
Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel and Suites
and limited press tours we have
We are now running press tours
to wine tasting at home. A video
– Sophisticated hotel property in
been utilising video and virtual
within Italy for those journalists
tasting for each wine they make will
Sardinia
tours. For example, sending travel
based here but are not actively
be drip-fed to press and customers
agencies and travel writers videos
encouraging international travel
over the next few weeks.
Arthouse PR has exceptional press
of properties, regions, experiences
until the New Year.
I’m finding Linked-in very useful
and B2B contacts globally and
which helps them to identify with
therefore we can specifically match
the client’s offering or property. We
What is the one technology trend
clients too. Instagram remains
clients with journalists that will, in
are setting up interactive online
within your industry that cannot be
important for travel stories and
turn, write features that showcase the
wine-tastings, cooking classes and
ignored?
positive inspiration.
client’s brand to the ‘right audience’
experiences.
Video is very big at the moment;
globally.
More classically, we are sending
mini travel docu-films are a great
How do you keep yourself updated?
We now have over 20 years’ plus
wine samples to press contacts
method of sharing inspiration. They
What are some of the websites
experience of working in the
with tasting notes so they can
can be shared quickly and can really
or magazines or apps that you
hospitality and interiors market. Our
enjoy a virtual ‘Taste of Tuscany’.
help a hotel property convey the
subscribe to or read?
detailed knowledge allows us to
We are also creating ‘goody bag’
atmosphere of a place. Those hotels
I read so many different sources
generate exceptional press and media
experiences from hotels where we
that have drone footage are in with
of information, for example every
coverage for our clients.
are mailing hampers of traditional
an advantage. We will be pushing all
day I read the Italian and English
for connecting with potential new
travel businesses to invest in video
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Newspapers. I read many travel
influencers that approach our hotel
blogs, magazines, face-book feeds.
clients for a ‘barter’ are authentic
Trade travel and hospitality press.
and have genuine and valuable
Most enjoyable and favorite
followers. We spend a great deal
magazine reads include:
of time authenticating the value of
Attitude Design – Portugal;
influencer reviews. We always advise
Wallpaper Magazine – International
our clients that it’s not the number
Interior Design; Food & Travel
of followers a person has but the
– UK and Italian versions; CN
value they bring. We are only
Traveler – UK version; How
interested in reviews and features
to Spend It – Financial Times
that ‘hit the mark’ and attract
supplement; Architectural Digest –
real interest from possible future
US and Italian Version; ENVY ITALY
customers worldwide.
Magazine – My own publication – a
We want to see real results and
good prompt for new features to
focus only on PR activities that will
research
benefit our clients in the long term.
A big debate is going on regarding
(Courtesy of Follow Business Albania)
fake media and real media. How far and near do you find yourself amidst this debate? We work only in the high-end luxury industries which is a good place to be. Our contacts are all genuine journalists and the fake news aspect does not influence our business too much thankfully. One area of ‘fakeness’ that does impact on our clients is the issue with influencers. We have to be very careful that bloggers and 68
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CARL CRAEN: LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING ALBANIAN STUDENTS TO THE EU COMMUNITY BY RUDINA HOXHA Carl Craen, Vice President and Managing Director of EU Business School invites the students all over the world and the Albanian ones as well to come and study at EU Business School which combines the best of on-campus and virtual learning as well as a maximum flexibility for fall 2020. “We have several start dates and the opportunity for students to start online and then come to the EU campus of their choice (Barcelona, Geneva, Montreux, Munich) at a later date. Alternatively, students can study 100% online,” Craen says in an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE. Parallel to that, highlighting that the top priority of the School is the health and safety of its community, Craen assures that the EU Business School strictly follows all the health and safety measures in all its campuses.
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At EU Business School, students can look forward to a great experience at
Please can you elaborate more on
EU this fall. “Experiential learning is what sets EU apart from other business
“We are ready for October 2020”
schools. We regularly organize conferences with top business leaders to
- Flexible Solutions, Join us
give students privileged insights into company operations and strategy,” the
this Fall?
EU Business School senior representative says, adding “This fall, we have
At EU Business School campuses,
an exciting line-up which includes the Vice Chairman of Hoffmann-Roche,
our programs will be delivered
the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Manchester City F.C. and the Chief
through our innovative on-campus
Executive Officer (CEO) of Adecco, among others. Recent speakers have
hybrid learning approach. This
included Christian Clerc, President, Global Operations at Four Seasons Hotels
combines the best of on-campus
and Resorts. To have an idea of what’s in store for EU students this fall, have
and virtual learning to give students
a look at our recent EU leader conferences here.”
an all-round engaging study experience.
We offer 11 MBA programs whose course content is tailor-made to align to the latest business needs. From finance & global banking, international marketing and sports management to blockchain management, entrepreneurship and leisure & tourism management, students are assured that they will gain the knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen career path.
We are offering maximum flexibility for fall 2020. We have several start dates and the opportunity for students to start online and then come to the EU campus of their choice (Barcelona, Geneva, Montreux, Munich) at a later date. Alternatively, students can study
I really do look forward to welcoming students from Albania to the EU community. I am sure that they will find the experience at EU fulfilling and fruitful for the next step in their careers. For more information, I suggest you contact our admissions counselors They will be delighted to help you and explain more about the EU experience. They can be contacted at info@euruni.edu.
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“Students can look forward to a great experience at EU this fall”
100% online. Our top priority is the health and safety of our community. We have strict health and safety measures in place across all our campuses. These include temperature checks at our campus entrances, the mandatory use of hand sanitizers, frequent hand washing, mask-wearing on campus at all times, measures for social distancing and a campus doctor whom students can consult if they are showing Covid-19 symptoms.
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of Adecco, among others. Recent
and leisure & tourism management,
speakers have included Christian
students are assured that they will
Clerc, President, Global Operations
gain the knowledge they need to
at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
succeed in their chosen career path.
To have an idea of what’s in store for EU students this fall, have a look at
Above all, we aim to foster an
our recent EU leader conferences
entrepreneurial mindset: we prepare
here.
our students to think outside of the box to prepare them to face the
“Above all, we aim to foster an entrepreneurial mindset”
everyday challenges of business. I am proud to say that we build entrepreneurs and help students develop their business personality. This is what helps build great business leaders.
How can you describe this fall
and moreover, in the virtual classroom
for the students at EU Business
they will participate in live webinars,
School? What should the current
Underlining that EU Business
teaching philosophy of the EU
forums and chats, among others.
School is a great fit for the future
Business School and what are
CEOs, CFOs, entrepreneurs and
the aspects it makes a difference
Experiential learning is what sets EU
business leaders, please can you
among the other schools?
Students can look forward to a
apart from other business schools.
tell us about the MBA’s Programs
EU stands out for its pragmatic and
great experience at EU this fall.
We regularly organize conferences
you provide at EU Business
hands-on approach to business
Every week, on-campus students
with top business leaders to give
School?
education. Classes are delivered by
will enjoy classes in reduced class
students privileged insights into
We offer 11 MBA programs whose
outstanding faculty members and
sizes on campus as well as some
company operations and strategy.
course content is tailor-made to
working professionals. We use case
classes online. We have prioritized
This fall, we have an exciting line-up
align to the latest business needs.
studies, business simulations, group
dynamic and interactive study in
which includes the Vice Chairman of
From finance & global banking,
work, projects and discussion to
both environments. Students will
Hoffmann-Roche, the Chief Operating
international marketing and
ensure that students gain practical
interact with their peers and faculty
Officer (COO) of Manchester City F.C.
sports management to blockchain
experience and the business
through discussion and group work
and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
management, entrepreneurship
skillset they need to succeed in the
and prospective students must know in advance?
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How would you define the
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multicultural understanding. They
to get ahead in the business world
will also have the opportunity to
and make a difference. For more
attend conferences from some of the
information, I suggest you contact
world’s most outstanding business
our admissions counselors They
leaders such as André Hoffmann,
will be delighted to help you
Vice Chairman of Hoffmann-Roche
and explain more about the EU
and Omar Berrada, Chief Operating
experience. They can be contacted
Officer of Manchester City F.C.
at info@euruni.edu.
At EU, we look for talented and
I really do look forward to
enthusiastic individuals to become
welcoming students from Albania
part of our student community. For
to the EU community. I am sure that
our foundation, bachelor’s, master’s
they will find the experience at EU
and MBA programs, students should
fulfilling and fruitful for the next step
not only have a good academic
in their careers.
record and proficient level of international business arena.
internationality, an example of this
EU’s internationality also sets us
being the recently published QS
apart from the rest of business
MBA 2021 rankings where our MBA
schools. All classes are delivered
figures in the top 140 globally.
in English and our student body and faculty comprise over 100
What should Albanian students
nationalities. Through interaction,
know to adhere to the EU
students gain multicultural
Business School programs? At EU, students will gain a hands-on
understanding which is essential in today’s globalized business
and pragmatic approach to business
world. Let me also add that our
education. They will interact
internationality is recognized
and learn from peers and faculty
globally. We regularly rank
alike in a dynamic international
number one worldwide for our
environment to gain an advanced
76
English, but they should also show
With regards to course content,
they wish to rise to the challenge
our MBA programs combine
“At EU, we look for talented and enthusiastic individuals to become part of our student community”.
fundamental business knowledge with specializations allowing students to gain an advanced skillset in business and in their chosen discipline. At EU, we also offer great opportunities for networking through our 27,000+ alumni. We are proud that our alumni members of 162 nationalities actively help our graduates around the globe.
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LUXU RY H OT E L S
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SACHER HOTEL’S MATTHIAS WINKLER: REAL LUXURY IS ALWAYS CONNECTED TO PEOPLE
RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
M
atthias
Winkler,
CEO
of
Sacher
Hotels,
talks
to
TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE about what is all about Sacher Hotel that gives to its guests the kind of authenticity they are looking for. An epitome of Vienna, Sacher Hotels are deeply rooted
for generations in the cities’ economy, society, politics, art and culture. “To us, the Gürtler and Winkler family, Sacher is home – and we are happy and proud to open our doors for every single guest, welcome him or her in, and make them feel right at home,” he says.
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Nevertheless, travel behaviors changed since pandemics. “At Sacher we had
During the last century, what are
What is the Viennese Art of
to react: Especially in a time, where Covid-19 keeps the world in suspense,
the changes that Sacher Hotel has
Welcoming at Sacher Hotel
our main goal is to ensure a carefree and safe stay for each of our guests. All
achieved and in what way they have
according to Matthias Winkler?
of our employees are tested weekly, we do offer testings for our guests too
made this Hotel so unique?
To us, the Gürtler and Winkler family,
and put our hygiene standards to an even higher level,” Winkler says.
Sacher’s roots reach deep down
Sacher is home – and we are happy
Asked about competition, Winkler said that Sacher Hotels have always
within the monarchy, we are
and proud to open our doors for
been pioneers in the hotel industry: the first electric chandeliers, the first
consciously ensuring that we
every single guest, welcome him or
bathrooms in the room, the first spa in a city hotel, the first with free Wi-Fi.
conserve such a unique heritage.
her in, and make them feel right at
Today, we keep moving with the times by implementing digitalization which
Nevertheless, tradition to me does
home. However, our hotels, cafés
is, of course, very highly demanded. In 2020, we introduced a mobile phone
not mean worshiping the ashes,
and restaurants are not only part of
app that can unlock the room doors and offers a 24/7 chat function.”
but passing on the fire – a principle
our personal family history, they have
we have been living by since 1832!
been deeply rooted for generations
Digitalization helps us keep the
within their cities’ economy, society,
fire burning: of course, computers
politics, art and culture. This gives
cannot provide as excellent a service
our guests the kind of authenticity
a human being can. However,
they are looking for – and leaves us
“Digitalization helps us keep the fire burning”
incredibly proud.
moving forward within the digital
Original Sacher-Torte: one day in
realm helps us better understand
1832, the court of Prince Metternich
our guests’ needs. I am sure, that
wanted a dessert to be created
modern technology will not flourish
for discerning guests. It just so
at the cost of such a cherished
happened that the chef de cuisine
history. Indeed, it supports us as we
was ill at the time and 16-year-old
Hotel Sa c h e r W ie n , B il d e r g a le
r ie
Hotel Sacher Wien, Wagenmeister Front
Has the famous Original SacherTorte made the Hotel or has the famous Sacher Hotel made the Original Sacher-Torte? We have a historical accident to thank for the success story of our
head towards an exciting future. 80
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chef of the Manufactory do know the
house where the traditions have
original recipe to this very day.
been kept since many years. Thanks to its intimate connection to the
You can buy the Original Sacher-
history of its surroundings, Hotel
Torte at Sacher hotels in Vienna
Sacher is truly beloved among
and Salzburg, at Sacher cafés in
guests coming from different
Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, Innsbruck and
areas of the world and various
Parndorf, and via our exclusive partner
backgrounds.
Heinemannn at the airports in Vienna, Salzburg and Frankfurt. Lastly, you
Nevertheless, travel behaviors
can also order it via the Sacher online
changed since pandemics. At Sacher
shop: sacher.shop.com.
we had to react: Especially in a time, where Covid-19 keeps the world in
Sacher Hotel is seeing more and more
suspense, our main goal is to ensure
international clientele. How is the
a carefree and safe stay for each of
apprentice Franz Sacher filled in
Talking about the Original
Hotel adapting to that?
our guests. All of our employees are
for him. The young man created a
Sacher-Torte what makes it so
Sacher Hotel in Vienna is the only
tested weekly, we do offer testings
wonderful cake that left nothing
internationally known? How can VIPs
family owned hotel in the city of
for our guests too and put our
to be desired. This night marked
or other top people order one?
Vienna and one of the few in Salzburg,
hygiene standards to an even higher
the birth of the Original Sacher-
Since 1832, the Original Sacher-
thus, it is important for us to welcome
level.
Torte – and until today, the recipe
Torte is made per hand in 34 steps,
our international guests in a private
of our Original Sacher-Torte never
approximately 360.000 Original
changed. The son of Franz Sacher,
Sacher-Tortes, many different
Eduard Sacher, who opened the
Original Sacher Products and nearly
Hotel Sacher Wien in 1876, also
1 million Original Sacher Cubes are
contributed to its success, as he
manufactured per year. The secret
was a gastronome who worked
recipe has been passed down from
internationally. He helped to extend
generation to generation and kept
the fame of the Original Sacher-
securely locked away in a safe.
Torte to a wider and more global
Only the family and the head pastry
market as a result.
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“Sacher Hotel in Vienna is the only family owned hotel in the city”
What do you recommend to the new investors of the top or high deluxe hotels to do so as to achieve high standards and top services like Sacher Hotel? At the end of the day, luxury is not only about marble, historic wooden panels or about crystal chandeliers – real luxury is always connected to
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in the room, the first spa in a city
of any event with a customized
hotel, the first with free Wi-Fi.
offer for guests who should seek
Today, we keep moving with the
such an experience. Both hotels,
times by implementing digitalization
in Vienna and Salzburg are littered
which is, of course, very highly
with Christmas decorations, flowers,
demanded. In 2020, we introduced
festive background music, scented
a mobile phone app that can unlock
candles to suit the occasion and
the room doors and offers a 24/7
personalized menu cards for that
chat function.
extra touch of care for our guests.
Can you already share some of the
Moreover, we introduce special
highlights of your program for the
opening hours of our outlets, in
incoming festive season?
order to share the festive sensations
The Festive Season is always a
with more guests. One can also
highlight of our year. In the build
invite his or her dearest by ordering
up to this very special season, we
a gift voucher available at the
have Pre-Christmas reception with
Sacher shop in Vienna and Salzburg,
people. This is why my first question
within the same category?
punch, which leads onto a Christmas
as well as at Café Sacher Graz and
to future employees always is: do
Hotel Sacher started in 1832 with
Party and a very exquisite Grand
Café Sacher Innsbruck and online via
you love guests, do you love being
the Original Sacher-Torte. We
Gala evening. We are very happy
www.sacher.com.
their host? And yes, we all do: we
are an establishment with a lot of
to support any individual planning
Additional Information: “Sacher –
love our guests and we want to
tradition as well as, very importantly,
make everybody’s dream come true.
a focus on the future. Reinforced with a rich history behind us, we
Being in the heart of Vienna, where
are aiming at a balance between a
the cultural and social life beats,
luxurious institution central to the
how is it to be among the high
local history and culture of Vienna
luxury branded hotels? What are
and digital savviness. Sacher Hotels
your key cards to compete with
have always been pioneers in the
these key international hotel chains
hotel industry: the first electric chandeliers, the first bathrooms 84
for Safety’s Sake!”
“The Festive Season is always a highlight of our year”
Covid-19 turned each and everyone’s life upside-down. Many travelers feel uncertain: Will I be able to travel? Am I safe to stay healthy? What is done to make my vacation secure? And: How can I look forward to a holiday if I can’t be 100% sure that it will even take
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Tourism of Adventure • Walking - Hiking, trekking, outdoor activities Ecotourism & Geotourism Agriturism, Culinary & Winery Tours
Where are we located?
ETT headquarter is in Tirana, the vibrant city and capital of Albania, which is very popular these last years for the large numbers of tourists that visit Albania. In the meantime, with the objective to extend its activity, in 2011 ETT opened its branch in Tirana International Airport “Mother Teresa”, which give us the opportunity to serve better to our clients in personalizing services, especially offering them touristic information, check-in procedures, reception and escorts, transfers, booking cars for rents,.etc.
Our Travel Styles Working day by day and year by year, with the main scope not only to keep the financial stability in balance, but also to extend our portfolio of services, our main services, but not limited to, are as below: Cultural / History • Cultural heritages; • Special interest Tours (Communism regime, Religious Tours, Archeologi cal Tours)
Shore Excursions and city breaks • In the most attractive places in Albania and Balkan Peninsula Grand tours Customized Tours
Other Services:
Staff & Collaborators
We want to assure that staff working in our travel agency is dedicated to get the best deal and to offer high standards of services to our clients. This is also thanks to our associates working in the tourism sector as licensed travel guides, hotels, restaurants, transport or partner deployed in numero-us attractive point all over Albania Contacts: 1) Head Office Street “Mujo Ulqinaku”, Nd.11 (mbrapa Kishës Katolike) Tirana, Albania (Tel)+355 4 2247572, (Fax) +355 4 2247572, (Mob): +355 696060342 / 696060344 2)Mother Teresa Airport (Tel) +355 4 2381906 (Mobile) +355 696060344 www.explorer-albania.al / info@explorer-albania.al www.explorertours.al / info@explorertours.al
place? At Sacher, there is no need to
voluntarily gets tested on Covid-19
worry! This is why:
once a week • We can now offer a Covid-19
• Our hygiene-standards have
express test for our guests, directly
always been very high and nowadays
run in the Hotel Sacher
exceed the requirements of Austrian
• Our employees are hygiene-
government
heroes! Internal training, ongoing
• Sacher is the only 5*S Hotel in
updates, new measures and safety
Austria, where cancellations are
checks help us maintain standards of
possible until 12 pm at the day of
excellence!
arrival. We adapt to our guests’ travel plans in a straightforward and
Please find all information about
flexible manner.
Sachers‘ hygiene standards on our
• Each and every staff member
website: www.sacher.com
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This concept has been characterized
accommodation. Not to forget the
by a unique and impressive
local cuisine alongside the delicious
design, unforgettable music and
traditional breakfast with organic
celebrations, welcoming and
products from “Luadhi i Çelos” farm
enthusiastic staff and a diversity of
which remain unforgettable.
unseen products so far.
We cannot stay without mentioning the loving and sweet “Sophie”
The newest hotel of the city,
coffee or the variety of the products
positioned at the entrance to the
available every day, fresh and
old bazaar, consists of spacious
healthy, prepared with a lot of love
rooms with marvelous views of the
by the professional staff.
bazaar and the city’s park, with TV, minibar, free Wifi and very relaxing
LA VIE BOHEME BOHEMIAN SOPHIE KORÇË
Korça, commonly known as “The
Somewhere in the center of the Old
Small Paris” of Albania, is one
Bazaar, there is the latest stop in the
of the most desirable tourist
city – Bohemian Sophie Korçë. Part
destinations in the country. Korça
of the large Sophie Caffe network.
holds immense historical, cultural
Bohemian Sophie comes with a
and artistic values. Korça’s delicious
different style for locals and visitors
cuisine, its distinct traditions and
alike. Now Sophie is not only “a
the variety of events of which the
coffee & snacks” shop. Its vision is
highlight is the fantastic nights
actually being expanded towards
beneath the sounds of serenades,
hospitality.
make Korça a lovely city for
Bohemian Sophie Korçë is not just
everyone, both local and foreign
a novelty in hospitality but also the
tourists.
newest concept of Sophie Caffe.
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EXPERIENCE RAFTING AT ITS BEST ON THE HOLY MOUNT OF BABA TOMOR!
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Do you have a restless heart in search of adrenaline-driven vacations? Do you seek out full spectrum immersive tours which include culture, nature, fine cuisine and fun? Are you looking for a thrill? Europe’s gem, Albania can meet all of your wildest wishes with the best value on earth. While in Berat, you will witness the combination of the old and new, also the pride and passion that the local people have for their city. Berat, known also as the 2400-year city, or the city of one thousand windows, is one of Albania’s pearls. The UNESCO protected city is well known for its unique Ottoman style houses built around two hills facing each other with the castle above and the river in between. During our tour we will visit the Onufri Museum, Berat Castle and the historical quarters of the city.
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deities, Mount Tomorr has been
back will be a feast for the senses
mentioned more than once in the
highlighting the freshness of local
course of history. It was Homer who
products and how delicious they are.
mentioned this Mount in 8th century
You will want to live there forever.
B.C. calling it Tomaros but the myth
After the picnic is over, we will head
is far more ancient. The toponyms
back to our cars and straight to the
Tomaros, Tamari, Tmari appear
Castle Park Hotel and Restaurant
in Strabo and Pliny the Elder´s
where you will enjoy the last part of
documents. Here, our visitors will
our adventure. Guides from Albania
experience the pure hospitality of
Rafting Group will say goodbye to
a local shepherd and his family’s
you over a last coffee at the Castle
Guests will be
You will enjoy a traditional dinner at
members within their home set
Park Hotel, where you can talk about
accommodated in one
Castle Park and sleep soundly there
within the beauty of unspoilt nature.
the adventure and the magical
of the best locations,
for a night.
Surrounded by deep forest with its
memories of the day.
at Castle Park Hotel
Day 2 starts with the best breakfast
unique aura and animals, this unique
and eat at its excellent
you ever tasted! A table full of
landscape lies gently in the palm of
Restaurant! Natural beauty is all
delicious food with various mouth-
your hand. If all this wasn’t enough,
around this hotel—from the sound
watering kinds of marmalades and
experiencing nature’s beauty while
of songbirds and the smell of pine,
jams to make your stay even sweeter.
riding a mule and hearing about
to the amazing views of the sunrise
Then it is time for some adventure
the vast legends and stories that
over the mountain.The Castle Park
with the Albania Rafting Group.
are part of this mountain will make
Restaurant is the epitome of Berat’s
After you are safely inside our 4x4
memories you will cherish for a
Traditional warm Hospitality. The
cars, we will drive for about 1 hour
long time. While you are riding your
Castle Park Hotel was awarded by
and 45 minutes to our destination -
mule you will discover the pellasgs
Albania Tourism annual conference
The Holy Mount of Tomorr. Mount
in the Castle of Tomorr Mount.
2012 three significant awards in the
Tomorr, located in southern Albania,
There you will witness the perfect
+355 67 200 6623
field of tourism:
with an elevation of 2417 meters,
landscape and the spiritual energy
has undoubtedly a special place in
that the mount offers you. While
Web : https://www.albrafting.org/
“ALBANIAN CUISINE”
every Albanian’s heart. Named as
you think that the best day ever is
“ALBANIAN SPIRIT”
the throne of Gods or home of the
that day, the picnic lunch on our way
TO ENJOY THIS UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE: Contact Us Email: info@albrafting.org Tel/Whatsapp:
“AUTHENTIC ALBANIA SILVER” 92
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AHMED BAKI: Our Collection Keeps Growing
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
Ahmed Baki, the Founder & CEO of Claviger Middle East (ClavigerME) talks with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE over the rapid development of his company, its projects and the key impact of marketing in hospitality market nowadays. ClavigerME (www.clavigerme.com) is a Hotel Representation Company covering the Middle East & North Africa Regions. One of the key renowned bespoke companies in the tourism and hospitality industry, Claviger services range from personalized sales meetings, roadshows, public and private events with the royals, government, high net wealth individuals, corporate organisations and travel trade to Marketing and PR for a comprehensive 360-degree plan and reach.
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Baki states that the ClavigerMe collection has grown to include 50 luxury hotels around the world over the last four years while it represents Dubai Tourism Board and Dubai Parks & Resorts. For him, the partnership with Emaar, an important player in the luxury hospitality market, is key. “We value our partnership with Emaar as this partnership has allowed us to accentuate what we can actually achieve not only for global well-established hotels but also local businesses,” Baki said. In the future Baki says trends like private villa rentals, RV’s luxury trips and the increasing demand for yachts will play an important role for travelers. “As a consequence, we expect to increase our customer base of these accommodation types, in addition to the traditional hotel and destination representation,” he says emphasizing once again the pledge to the customer
”to provide them with market-specific expertise that grow their business.”
e d ro o m T h re e B e esidenc Ocean R
Based on your experience and that
Do you think marketing for hotels
of your team boasting over 100
has become complex now? What
years of hospitality experience
are the pillars of hotel marketing?
in the market, how important is
Marketing for hotels has become
marketing in hospitality market?
dynamic and rather complex with the
In this competitive digital era, it’s
digitization revolution leveraging on
vital for hospitality players to stay
all the digital channels that connect
ahead of the curve and compete
with potential guests while they
for guests in new digital and offline
are sitting back basically anywhere
channels and communities that
anytime. Digital channels have
unfold every single day. It’s crucial
deemed many other traditional
to understand that hospitality guests
marketing channels obsolete while
are using some of their disposable
creating an aggressive competition
income and free time to purchase
between hotels for guests’ attention.
a pleasurable experience that is offered by thousands of global
The complexity arises from the need
players. And this is where marketing
to balance between capitalizing on
comes in to accentuate the
all the new digital channels, while
distinctive value that a hotel or any
still putting the right value emphasis
hospitality provider can offer to their
on indispensable traditional
guests to choose this experience
marketing and most importantly on
rather than a thousand other ones
innovative ways to keep the guest
offered at the same price.
experience unique with a clear competitive edge.
That being said, the value of face-
Family Beach Villa
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to-face meetings and relationships
The pillars of hotel marketing rely on
with our customers in Middle East,
experience-based communication
North Africa and China go hand in
that is consistent with the brand
hand with the marketing efforts.
promise. Authenticity is key. With a defined brand promise, hotel
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
marketing starts from the guest
player in the luxury hospitality
Please tell us a bit about your
How is Claviger Middle East
experience all the way to strong and
market, not only regionally but
Team? How has its diversity
helping the brands to be shaped
geographic-market-specific online
also internationally. We value our
influenced on its overall
for the lifestyle and travel
and offline communication model
partnership with Emaar as this
experience and performance?
industry?
that also utilizes travel trade network
partnership has allowed us to
Our team is diverse in geographic
As mentioned before, the hospitality
and other third-party marketing
accentuate what we can actually
experience and background but we
industry is a dynamic one, because
partnerships.
achieve not only for global well-
are unified with a strong passion
players are competing for the
established hotels but also local
for hospitality and expertise that
attention of an ever-growing but
How did Claviger Middle East
businesses. It shows that our model
drive our performance. This blend
also ever-changing market. We
managed to become the most
works and how sales representation
– I believe – is the right mix for
ensure that we are always ahead
well-known and highly respected
can help world-class organizations
outstanding performance, namely
of the game when it comes to
representation companies in the
grow their market share from the
leveraging on what each unique
understanding our customers’ guests
GCC region and how has the
Middle East, North Africa & China.
member has to provide to our
and market needs because no-one-
clients within a frame of a consistent
size fits all in hospitality. In turn, we
partnership with Emaar Hospitality Group impacted in this respect?
What sets us apart is our philosophy
corporate culture that streamlines
ensure that our customers’ brands
Over the past four years, our
and operating model. We work as
our deliverables to our customers.
are translated in the right language
collection has grown to include more
a sales, marketing and PR company
than 50 luxury hotels around the
that operates as an extended team
world, as well as representation for
to our customers in a strongly-
H O S P I TA L I T Y
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Dubai Tourism Board and Dubai Parks intertwined partnership model. We basically become our customers’
& Resorts. Emaar is an important
team of experts to grow their
“What sets us apart is our philosophy and operating model”
market share from the Middle East, North Africa & China. We know the market inside-out as our team members are based in the feeder markets and their experience range from 14-28 years of on-ground hospitality experience.
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that speaks to the Middle East
What do you and your team
market and are supported with on-
foresee the new normal era will
ground sales force that connect with
require from you to face it?
the market on daily basis.
The new hospitality era requires flexibility and agility. We always
What do you hire: experience or
need to be few steps ahead of the
attitude?
game and swiftly shift hats whenever
A hiring decision considers
needed to capture changing market
a spectrum of a candidate’s
needs and trends.
attributes and is decisive to what
In the future, travel behavior and
we promise our clients. Our pledge
consumer journey continue to
to customers is to provide them
change. For example, trends like
with market-specific expertise that
private villa rentals, RV’s luxury
grow their business. But with the
trips and the increasing demand for
wrong attitude, this promise is not
yachts will play an important role
achievable. We capitalize on our
for travelers. As a consequence, we
Customer’s Satisfaction
team-spirited attitude towards our
expect to increase our customer
Brand Leadership
partners, so we always ensure we
base of these accommodation types,
Profitable Growth
hand-pick the right attitude with the
in addition to the traditional hotel
right expertise.
and destination representation.
Avis Albania Avis is a leading car rental company in Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia with more than 45 years’ experience in the car rental industry. Avis Europe serves over 8 million customers annually through a network spanning 112 countries. Avis is a dynamic global organization perpetually trying harder and committed to delivering the very highest levels of services. To be the most valued and successful vehicle Rental Company in its market, as well as for its customers, employees and shareholders, AVIS is continuously investing in the six strategic priorities:
Cost Efficiency Employee Satisfaction People Development Networking Technology
Avis has 18 years of experience in Albania. It has been one of the first Rent a Car companies in Albania and one of the most successful in this field. Avis Rent a Car Albania with its highly skilled staff, offers the finest level and wide range of services. Its three main desks are placed in Nene Teresa International Airport, Tirana Downtown and Port of Saranda.
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The EBRD is providing
the EU, to help improve the local
a €60 million loan
tourism standards and ensure
to co-finance
women’s participation in Albania’s
tourism-enabling
tourism value chain.
infrastructure, such as roads, water
Under the EBRD’s Advice for Small
and wastewater
Businesses initiative and with the
improvements
EU’s support, the Bank will also offer
and municipal
consultancy services to small and
infrastructure
medium-sized enterprises, which
upgrades, with a
are active in the tourism sector, by
particular focus on
providing know-how on improving
the municipalities of
their businesses.
Berat, Korca, Fier and
EBRD and EU
Shkoder, the press
To date, the EBRD has invested
release says.
over €1.4 billion in 100 projects in
The EU is also
Albania, while the EU is the largest
providing €40 million
donor in Albania and has provided
in grants through its “Instrument
over €700 million between 2014
BOOST TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE IN ALBANIA
for Pre-Accession Assistance”
and 2020.
• EBRD and EU to boost competitiveness of Albanian tourism sector
investments. The EU funds will
• €60 million loan to co-finance municipal and transport infrastructure • Project to increase women’s inclusion and know-how for SMEs
for technical assistance and be used for the restoration, improvement and development of cultural and natural heritage sites in the country.
The European Bank for
formalising the cooperation in the
Reconstruction and Development
sector were signed between the EBRD
(EBRD) and the European Union (EU)
and the government of Albania on the
In addition, the press release
are boosting the competiveness
sidelines of the EBRD Annual Meeting
underlines, the two partners will
of the tourism sector in Albania.
2020, according to a press release of
offer technical assistance and
On October 8, 2020, agreements
EBRD.
training opportunities, funded by
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
The Next IHIDC
TO TAKE PLACE IN AUTUMN 2021
F
or the last 12 years,
have been born, new ways of hosting
the INTERNATIONAL
conferences have been discussed.
HOTEL INVESTMENT &
“It is crucial for the world to come
DESIGN CONFERENCE
together to discuss, reimagine and
(IHIDC) in November
pave a new path towards the future
in Vienna has been a fixture on the
of hospitality once the pandemic
international conference schedule.
allows us to. With this in mind we
2020 has certainly proofed a
will keep you posted with our news,”
different year for all of us.
the IHIDC press release added.
Even tough our industry has finally begun showing signs of regional and local recovery, with the ongoing travel restrictions within Europe, we would like to announce that the next
Please stay in touch
IHIDC will be taking place in autumn
info@viennaconference.com
2021, a press release of IHIDC
www.viennaconferences.com
stated recently. We certainly look forward to New partnerships have been formed
RECONNECT, RESTART and
over the last few months, new ideas
REMEET in 2021! Tanja Millner & the IHIDC Team
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Finisterra Arrabida Film Festival, A GREAT MEMORY OF SESIMBRA!
I
BY IRENE GIANNAKOPOULOS* n spite of the difficult
for all involved in the cinema line.
period that humanity is
Bravely, I travelled from Amorgos
going through, due to
island in Greece, as a member of the
COVID 19, Carlos Sargedas
Jury, and as the director of Amorgos
and his team in Sesimbra
Film Festival. I am very happy I did.
- Portugal, organized the 9th
It was a great experience, and all
Finisterra Arrabida Film Festival from
safety protocols were followed.
29 September to 3rd October, 2020. The Finisterra Arrabida Festival took Especially this year, with the
place at the beautiful Municipality
difficulties that the Tourism sector is
Theater of Sesimbra, where the
going through, the realization of the
organizers had the full support of
Festival at its original place, was very
the Mayor and his Board Members,
important, as it brought together
who clearly realized the importance
international people from Tourism
of optical acoustic means of
and Culture, and created a network
communication. Local people
JosĂŠ AntĂłnio Marques | www.visagestudio.pt
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embraced the event with love, and
the chance to enjoy an amazing
watched many of the 130 International
spectacle with dolphins, flying
Films, which participated at the
around us.
festival..
Our visit to the Cactus Park in the nearby countryside was really an
Many winners came to receive their awards, while some of them sent a
amazing experience.
video message, with their appreciation
We tasted certain cactus fruit for
and happiness for their prize.
the first time ever. The owners of the place, as all Portugese people
Sesimbra is an amazing small fishing
that we met, are very friendly and
and touristic city of around 5.000
hospitable. They offered me some
residents, with many nice hotels
cactus pieces to take to Greece
and hotel apartments for wonderful
for planting! A great memory of
holidays.
Sesimbra!
The sandy beach is white, clear, and
For more information, visit:www.
clean, and the waters are like crystal.
finisterrafilmfestival.pt email:finister
There are beautiful marinas, for yachts
raarrabidafilmfestival@gmail.com
and fishing boats. The food there is really good. We ate
* Owner & CEO
so much fish and shrimp in different
Aegialis Tours - Aegialis
recipes.
Hotel & Spa
Diving is their specialty, as there are 8 schools for diving, and some days up to 800 people dive. We were taken on a traditional boat around the coast, where we had
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LINN AND NADJA’S SUSTAINABLE TIGHTS
Push the Boundaries of Hosiery ALBANIA COULD FOR SURE BE OF INTEREST FOR US, BUT AT THE MOMENT WE DON’T HAVE ANY INSIGHT INTO THIS MARKET, FIRST WE NEED TO LEARN MORE.
Swedish Stockings was founded in 2013 by Linn Frisinger and Nadja Forsberg. The two ladies, both 25 years old at the time noticed that there were no eco-friendly stockings in the market and decided to launch the company in October 2013, exactly 7 years ago. Each year, two billion pairs of tights are produced, worn a few times and then discarded, helping to make the textile industry the second most polluting industry in the world. Given that, the two innovative youngsters started to think of using different sustainably produced materials in the hosiery industry. For Linn Frisinger, Founder & CEO of Swedish Stockings (SS), “Using different sustainably produced materials means we can create exciting new innovations to push the boundaries of hosiery.” TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE sat with Frisinger to talk about the SS’s modern and future proof approach to hosiery. “We only use recycled nylon and natural fibers in our products. Our production is based in Italy, it’s driven by solar panels and all the water we use we purify and use over and over again. We are constantly looking for new materials that allow us to improve our sustainability to create high quality products with minimal impact on the planet,” Frisinger told in this exclusive interview.
“We only use recycled nylon and natural fibers in our products” 111
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
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SS is the only sustainable hosiery brand out there. “We take the whole life circle into consideration – from material – to production – and also the “after life”. What SS does consists in a recycling program that grinds down old pantyhose and uses it as filler material in fibreglass tanks, so that the old tights don’t end up in landfills, or in our oceans or to be incinerated.
products. Our production is based
Germany and the US at the moment.
in Italy, it’s driven by solar panels
Albania could for sure be of interest
and all the water we use we purify
for us, but at the moment we don’t
and use over and over again. We are
have any insight into this market,
constantly looking for new materials
first we need to learn more.
Full interview is below:
in order to repair it. Today its
that allow us to improve our
women’s number one wear and tear
sustainability to create high quality
Do you intend to visit Albania and
What is the story behind Swedish
clothing item. The hosiery industry
products with minimal impact on the
present your business model? I
as we know it is very traditional,
planet. We have recently launched
am sure it will stir a lot of interest
outdated and a major source of
our PET bottle tights combining
and inspiration.
documentary film “the light bulb
pollution. Pantyhose are women’s
them with upcycled cotton. Using
We haven’t planned so – but if we
conspiracy” - it’s about how
biggest consumable garment, which
different sustainably produced
get the right contacts and retailers
products are being designed in
is also incredibly harmful to the
materials means we can create
interested in selling our products
order to age quickly to boost
environment. We thought tights
exciting new innovations to push the
then we would for sure.
consumption. They brought up
were a boring product for women
boundaries of hosiery.
thighs in this film, a product that
to buy, we wanted to make it more
once was exclusive and women
attractive in many ways. From the
Stockings? Why hosiery? The idea came from the
start our mission has been
left it to trailers
to change and influence the entire hosiery industry. Can you give our readers
Which are currently your best
challenging to make a business
selling products and which are
case for sustainability. How has
your best markets? Do you intend
sustainability been supported and
to penetrate into Albanian market
integrated throughout the life of
as well?
Swedish Stockings? We are the only sustainable hosiery
Our number one bestseller since we started is Olivia tights, they
brand out there. We take the whole
are black (but now available in 5
life circle into consideration – from
colors) and come in 60 denier, so
material – to production – and
We take a modern and
they are quite thick. Even though
also the “after life”. We currently
future proof approach
we create a lot of beautiful patterns
have a recycling program in place
to hosiery. We only use
and colors – in the end it’s the black
that grinds down old pantyhose
recycled nylon and
ones that always sell the best. Our
and uses it as filler material in
natural fibers in our
best markets are Scandinavia, UK,
fibreglass tanks, so that the tights
some insights about your products, why do they make a
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Many businesses find it
difference?
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
that do break (and all tights will
filler material in fibreglass tanks,
- no matter the brand), don’t end
is a great interim solution, but we
up in landfills, or in our oceans or
need to find ways to make it more
to be incinerated. We also don’t
accessible for people all over the
overproduce and are cautious about
world. We are also investigating
which styles/trends we produce (i.e.
alternative recycling or repurposing
we don’t want to produce a style
options. Lastly, our mission is to
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is the institutional
that we know will be out of season
change and influence the entire
representative of more than 45 million companies in over
in a few weeks). We employ knitting
hosiery industry. So, we want to
100 countries. ICC’s core mission is to make business work
techniques that elongate their life,
encourage other companies to do
for everyone, every day, everywhere. Through a unique
making the tights more flexible and
what we do, and we want to help
mix of advocacy, solutions and standard setting, we
more durable.
them do this!
promote international trade, responsible business
We make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere.
conduct and a global approach to regulation
What are the key sustainability
in addition to providing market-leading dispute
issues and challenges looming in
resolution services. Our members include
the horizon for businesses like
many of the world’s leading companies,
yours based on sustainability?
SMEs, business associations and local
We have so many things we want
chambers of commerce.
to do and to achieve! We are working to be as closed-loop as
To learn more or to become
possible. Right now no technology
a member, contact us at:
exists that can separate nylon from
info@icc-albania.org.al
elastane, so old hosiery cannot be turned into new. That’s our goal! We are involved in a research initiative that is investigating this separation, so we think in a few years time we will be able to fully recycle old pantyhose into new. Our recycling program, that grinds down old pantyhose and uses it as 114
THE GOAL of “MULLIRI VJETER” “TO ALWAYS PRODUCE QUALITY COFFEE”
Marina Rama, General Manager of “Mulliri Vjeter” sits with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE to talk in details of the world of “Mulliri Vjeter,” dominated by high quality products and service standards. “To sustain our position in the market and to continue our growth, we will never stop pursuing high quality products and service standards,” the conspicuous entrepreneur says. “We always care about what others think, want and expect from us,” she says. Rama explains that “Mulliri Vjeter” continuously expands its product catalogue, introducing new products of coffee, pastry products, chocolates, teas, etc. “For example, a new specialty coffee is released every month, imported from the best coffee-growing countries around the world, such as Ethiopia, Colombia, Kenya, Honduras, etc. We find this very interesting and unique, and we are glad that our clients do, too,” she says. Because “Mulliri Vjeter” is constantly changing and improving to not only be just a brand, but a part of people’s daily life.
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Full interview below:
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goal. In order to enjoy a good cup
What is the evolution “Mulliri
the way of serving to self-service,
of coffee, it is also necessary to
and also introduced the take away
What is the mindset behind
Vjeter” has undergone through
provide a cozy and beautiful place.
cup. These changes were shortly
“Mulliri Vjeter” which makes
years in terms of products
Therefore, we take care to offer it,
implemented in every Mulliri coffee
it the leader company in the
creativity?
by paying attention to every small
Nowadays, Albania
quality and freshness of coffee in
detail.
is a place where
Albania?
the traditional
“There is no difficulty that cannot be overcome”
shop. Since then, we have continuously expanded our
We started this business with a
To sustain our position in the market
coffee business
simple goal “To always produce
and to continue our growth, we will
is rising fast and
quality coffee.”
never stop pursuing high quality
the competition
Our company motto is “When you
products and service standards. We
is at the top. In
work with honesty, devotion and
always care about what others think,
2013, the company decided that it
chocolates, teas, etc. For example,
especially with passion, there is no
want and expect from us. We are
was time to approach a new kind of
a new specialty coffee is released
difficulty that cannot be overcome”.
constantly changing and improving
coffee shop format. Mulliri Vjeter
every month, imported from the best
Our clients are our priority, and
to not only be just a brand, but a
opens the first of its new concept
coffee-growing countries around the
offering them a good quality coffee
part of people’s daily life.
coffee shop where the company
world, such as Ethiopia, Colombia,
changed its coffee shop design,
Kenya, Honduras, etc. We find this
and tasty products is our company’s
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product catalogue, introducing new products of coffee, pastry products,
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
very interesting and unique, and we
In addition, here at Mulliri Vjeter,
to drink specialty coffee! So, it is our
You find a coffee shop everywhere
are glad that our clients do, too.
we are all like a family. Every staff
mission to bring the best coffee to
you go. Also, the coffee shop chains
member gives their best and works
our loyal customers. To achieve it, we
have significantly expanded in the
What are the lessons learned
with passion to ensure maximum
import coffee straight from the origin
market. Albanians love coffee and
since the opening to make
customer satisfaction at the end
countries, such as Brazil. We also
we are here to support and meet
your brand outstand from your
of the day. Not only in our coffee
import green coffee from Italy and
their needs.
competitors?
shops, but in every city in Albania
Greece.
In my opinion, seeing how the
Mulliri Vjeter, first coffee shop was open in 1994. Today we count 16 shops in Albania, and 2 in Macedonia. Of course, this journey has not been very easy, and we have gone through a lot
“Albanians love coffee and we are here to support and meet their needs.”
market is saturated with the
sales agents and
How do you see the expansion
current coffee companies, there
production staff
of coffee market in Albania? Do
is not too much space for the big
make sure that
you see space for the big ones
foreign coffee brands. I believe the
everybody enjoys
“Starbucks”, “Costa Cafe” etc.
customer demand would not satisfy
fresh and quality
As mentioned earlier, the coffee
the big companies’ needs.
“Mulliri Vjeter”
market in Albania has expanded a lot.
coffee. Working efficiently as a team is another “secret of
of difficulties to reach our current position in the
and beyond, our
success” of our company.
coffee industry. Nevertheless, what is important is that we have always
From how many countries do you
worked with honesty and devotion
import coffee blends and how
to produce the best coffee for our
important are these blends to
clients and never disappoint with
make your coffee unique?
the quality. Costumers’ needs are
We import only the best green
our focus and we have always met
coffee, monitored and evaluated
them. If you listen to costumers, to
throughout the whole chain,
their needs and suggestions, and
that meets the high standards
if you accomplish them, they will
designed together with academic
always remain loyal and help you
professionals. We all have the right
grow. 120
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accepting the invitation from Superbrands as an award winner, is the highest
SUPERBRANDS A GREAT ACHIEVEMENT FOR THE BRANDS AND COMPANIES
appreciation for the respective marketing team of the company,” Fuga says.
Full interview below:
possibilities that the Albanian market
Sokol Fuga, welcome to the
Superbrands International is the
TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE interview! How would you describe what you do for Superbrands Albania?
T
offers. Independent Arbiter of Branding. It stands upon the competition as the multinational organization that applies its formula based on a local
First of all, I would like to
approach but imposes the highest
congratulate you on the initiative
and the most professional standards
of giving life to Trailblazing
that are part of Superbrands’ integrity
Magazine. It is wonderful to impose
for more than 25 years. Initially I
your experience, know-how and
was asked to evaluate if Albania
daily dedication on this project
had the possibilities to organize the
that has found its place in a fast
Superbrands Award Winner program,
evolving market. Your Magazine is a
and I had positively answered to it.
professional way of presenting the
Therefore I have been working as
he Managing Partner of Superbrands International in Albania since 2014, Sokol Fuga underlines in an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE that attaining Superbrands status strengthens a brands position, adds prestige and reassures consumers and suppliers that they are buying the
best brand in their category. According to him, being nominated a Superbrands (even not yet receiving the invitation) is a great achievement for the brands and companies as they are already part of the best brands in the specific country. “Receiving and
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MARKETING/BRANDING
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Managing Partner of Superbrands
identified and this process goes
International in Albania since 2014.
on with brand building and image
Back at that time, Albania was the
integration. All the brands need
only European Country that had not
to communicate their products
organized any edition of Superbrands.
through simple, recognizable and
Starting with the 2015/2016 as the
easy ways and identified logos of
first edition of Superbrands, Albania
products or services, so to be the
joined the European Community of
first choice from the consumers.
countries that organize this initiative
All the marketing efforts of the
yearly. My role within this organization
companies naturally lead to the
includes: advocating the Superbrands
building of brand image and brand
for the market evolvement, advising the invited brands on the services, extending personally the invitation arrived by Superbrands International, following the media campaign for the
“Attaining Superbrands status strengthens a brands position”
name. The marketing team prepares the
be evaluated for their achievements.
Since you started operating in
product to be chosen
Being nominated a Superbrands
Superbrands Albania, how has
instantly as seen by
(even not yet receiving the
the Superbrands ranking changed
the consumer, so
invitation) is a great achievement for
the profitability or market share/
creating the brand
the brands and companies as they
image of the ranked companies?
that communicate
are already part of the best brands
The biggest achievement of the
with as many clients
in the specific country. Receiving
Albanian market is the simple
as possible. From
and accepting the invitation from
fact than more than half of the
this point of view,
Superbrands as an award winner,
companies elected as Award
Superbrands edition and taking care
all marketing teams achieve their
is the highest appreciation for the
Winners in the first edition are
of any details in preparing the book
goals when the brand that they
respective marketing team of the
present in the other consecutive
“An insight to the Albanian’s strongest
present to the consumers build a
company.
editions.
brands” alongside with the Gala
high impact and reputation as well
Attaining Superbrands status
Companies have embraced the
Dinner thrown for the Award Winners.
as increase the sales. When these
strengthens a brands position, adds
initiative and have already taken
companies and brands achieve the
prestige and reassures consumers
the benefit out of it by creating
highest standards, they enter in
and suppliers that they are buying
marketing campaigns dedicated
the elite of the brands and there it
the best brand in their category.
to the Superbrands Award Winner
Why being in Superbrands is good for the brands? All the companies need to be
becomes indispensable for them to
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and by reflecting this achievement
Superbrands is epitome of big
of Superbrands is the gala dinner
and November 2019 (that forced
in using the seal in their product,
corporates. As I understand,
where Award Winners are getting
Superbrands International to
since the final goal is to orient the
you are working with Small and
together, so they have the chance to
postpone the Award Winner Event
client to high quality products and
Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as
communicate as winners in between,
in the upcoming year). The current
services. Superbrands guarantees
well. How has this resulted?
by offering services and exchanging
year has come with this new
the consumers that the companies
In my perception through more than
experiences.
situation created in the market and
elected Superbrands are the best
5 years of daily contact with the
in the market in the specific time
market, Superbrands International
What are the biggest challenges
Albania but worldwide. The situation
frame of not less than one edition.
has no intention of differentiating
you are facing with the
has forced Superbrands to postpone
the companies in big, medium
SUPERBRANDS project nowadays
the celebrations and the Gala
or small. In the perception of
when the global pandemic is
Dinner, but on the other hand, we
Superbrands, there are brands
dominating? Can you say how
have offered very good marketing
that perform and achieve high
SUPERBRANDS is helping brands
opportunities to the brands
results and we are here to offer
and clients to manage during this
participating in this joint edition, by
the possibility to the brands with
time.
organizing sponsorship of dedicated
highest achievements to have an
Specifically the Albanian market
TV programs and media campaign
exclusive advantage through the
started to suffer mostly by the end
for Superbrands itself in TV partners.
Superbrands Seal to be different for
of 2019 to follow 2020, facing the
So, the brands see the commitment
the competition. One of the pillars
earthquake events of September
from our part to stand on their
“Superbrands is an open platform toward media and media involvement� 126
in the society in general, not only in
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part, despite of the hard situation
the Albanian possibilities that means
created.
that our aim is to build a strong
With the advising policy that we
relationship with media of all kind
are following right now we are
and especially with the ones of your
suggesting to the companies new
profile.
approach to the market and on
From that point of view, Trailblazing
the on the hand, new possibilities
Magazine is already part of the
in coordination with the other
Superbrands in Albania and we are
Superbrands Awarded companies,
looking forward in recognising the
in attempting to create a network of
status of media partner that comes
new possibilities within the Albanian
with all the benefits that this status
market.
stands for.
When can you foresee that the
I am
#
Connected Innovative Entrepreneurial
young but very innovate magazine TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE can be part of SUPERBRANDS? Superbrands is an open platform toward media and media involvement in following the activities of Superbrands. Our Lavinia Arl BA (Hons) Business Management
relationship started with a formal invitation on the last GalaDinner. This was just the beginning of a relationship that foresees different ways of collaboration. The intention of Superbrands is to offer as much as possible new ways of communication with the local consumer. Since your
Business Education for a New Generation Study our three-year English-taught bachelor’s degrees in a global community and become a game changer.
Magazine is an open window for consumers and investors to evaluate
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Xheko Imperial Hotel ADDING RICHNESS
E
ni Xheko, General Manager of Xheko Imperial Hotel told TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE that renovation took place at the Hotel during 2020. Due to the high demand of its clients, the Hotel will inaugurate a new SPA and Wellness Center as well as a Meeting & Event
Venue by the end of October. In addition, a rooftop bar on the highest floor with a panoramic view of Tirana will be available soon.
“Despite the fact that 2020 was a hard year for hospitality industry in Albania, we continued with the construction of the SPA and recruited a very qualified staff from Bali and Thailand,� Xheko says in this exclusive interview. The SPA, she said, will not be run by a foreign operator but by the Hotel itself. Hotel clients are welcomed to use the SPA and Wellness Center while guests from outside have to pay a membership fee. On the other hand, the Hotel will offer a new event room of 100 people, named Gold Orchid, on the 14th floor.
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Xheko Imperial Hotel has been
Turkish hammam, massage and
further expanding with a Wellness
With the Hotel renovation
Please can you reveal a bit more
treatment rooms. Despite the
and Spa besides a big renovation.
alongside with the Spa and
on the Gold Orchid Meeting &
fact that 2020 was a hard year for
What have you learned during the
meeting facilites, what are the
Event Venue?
hospitality in Albania, we continued
The Gold Orchid is an event room
past years and what stirred this
competitive advantages of the
with the construction of the SPA and
located on the 14th floor and offers
action?
Xheko Imperial and where do you
recruited a very qualified staff from
foresee your niche in the market?
a great view of Tirana. It can be
Year 2019 was a very successful year
Bali and Thailand.
At the end of October, we are
used for different events up to 100
going to open the SPA, a new
guests.
for Xheko Imperial and there was a high demand for SPA treatments
What inspired you or your
meeting and event room on the
from our guests. Therefore we
designers in following this spa
14th floor and a rooftop bar on the
decided to work on a 650sqm SPA
and wellness concept? Will you
highest floor with a panoramic view
center where there is swimming
be operating the Spa & Wellness
of Tirana. The main competitive
pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room,
Center or will be a foreign
advantages are the location and the
operator?
service that we offer to our guests.
We have decided to manage the
We do not target a certain niche
SPA ourselves as it will serve mainly
market therefore we have different
to our hotel guests but also to
rooms categories, many types of
the guests from outside through
meeting and event rooms in order
membership cards, gift cards etc.
to meet different clients’ needs and
“We have decided to manage the SPA ourselves”
budgets.
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“The main competitive advantages are the location and the service that we offer to our guests.” 133
THE SWEDISH INVITATION TO EXPLORE RADHIMA -OUR REALITY FROM A NORDIC SKY AND SEA PERSPECTIVE – 134
T
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he curator of
Sea does not have a topic, it uses
“Photons from
similitudes but also it works by
the Sky to the
contrasts. What links these artists
Sea”, Donika Çina
together in fact is contemporaneity
exclusively shares
and the influence each of us has
with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE
from the pre-produced image of
her experience with this exhibition
what is or expect to be our reality,”
which brought together six Swedish
Çina says in this interview.
artists and nine artworks in Albania.
According to her, the exhibition,
This exhibition, organized by
which stayed open until 24th of
Galeria e Bregdetit, Rradhima,
October, was built as a journey
Vlora with the support of the
to explore the artworks and the
Swedish Ambassador to Albania,
artistic practice of each artist in all
H.E. Elsa Haståd and The Swedish
its complexities. “It is an invitation
Arts Grants Committee, was
to explore not only a geographical
inaugurated on 26th of September,
journey to Rradhima but also our
2020 with the participation of the
reality from a Nordic sky and sea
artists: Johan Österholm, Lotta
perspective,” the talented artist and
Törnroth, Mikaela Steby Stenfalk,
curator states.
Niklas Holmgren, Sjoerd ter Borg and Ylva Carlgren. She says that the idea for this exhibition came during her IASPIS Residency (The Swedish Arts Grants Committee’s International Programme for Visual Artists) in Stockholm. The artists in this exhibition, she says, were different from one another. “Photons From the Sky to the
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“Coming to Albania, Vlorë was an amazing experience meeting all the kind people from the Albanian art scene and all the people supporting the art scene. It was also an honor working with the amazing artist and curator Donika Çina, who initiated the project together with Eli from ‘Galeria e Bregdetit.’ Donika really did a fantastic job bringing us to Albania and of course with the exhibition itself that I am proud to be a part of in many ways. Hopefylly this project will lead to further colaboration between Sweden and Albania. It might be a good idea to bring Albanian artists to Sweden , maybe even as a part of the same project.” -
- Niklas Holmgren
“My impressions from this experience in Albania was great. Donika Çina did a great job curating this show and both Tirana and Radhimë were fantastic places I would like to revisit. The experience in whole was great, mostly thanks to all the lovely people we met.” - - Lotta Törnroth
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Full interview below:
can be translated as photography or photographic image.
Please how would you describe the experience of curating the exhibition “Photons from the
How did you find the artworks
Sky to the Sea” of the Swedish
of the Swedish artists? Can you
Artists? What can you say about
elaborate on them?
your relationship with the Swedish artists?
The artists participating in Photons From the Sky to the Sea are very different from each other. Having
There are many ways of curating, by profession, I am an artist even
the photographic image as the focus
though artist and curator is a
of the exhibition did not mean that
common practice. What I mean by
the artists are photographers. Johan
accentuating being an artist is that
Österholm uses photography in its
I use my own artistic practice as a method to curate an exhibition, to associate and combine artworks and different artistic practices. The idea of an exhibition with Swedish artists came while I was staying in Stockholm, at IASPIS
“It was a very interesting experience to do the exhibition in Radhimë, and I was especially happy and surprised by the response that we got from people who came to the opening. The audience seemed very curious and interested. I am very happy Donika invited me to be part of this exhibition, which gave me the opportunity to see Albania. Donika did a splendid job organizing this exhibition.”
residency (IASPIS – The Swedish Arts Grants Committee’s International Programme for Visual Artists) and of course, being there in the artistic environment but also experiencing as a south European the dramatic changes of light and darkness of the
- Lotta Törnroth
north gave me the input to create an exhibition focused on light and darkness which in an artistic medium
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archaic form therefore there is not
source for her work when she does
a camera but the artwork becomes
sculptures or she collaborates with
itself the body of the camera, as
Sjoerd ter Borg for a film. She is
well as his interest, is not the image
an architect and a designer whose
to be captured in a photograph but
practice is focused in the digital
light itself. For Lotta Törnroth, her
landscape and how its aesthetics
photographs capture a performative
influence us in experiencing
gesture, she reenacts the stories of
sameness.
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
people waiting in hope or despair about a loss in the sea and she stays
What was the main topic of this
in front of her camera to embody
exhibition from your view? Why
that moment.
people should come and visit this
Niklas Holmgren and Ylva Carlgren
exhibition? Photons From the Sky to the Sea
are painters and in both Holmgren hyper-realistic paintings and in
does not have a topic, it uses
Carlgren total absence of any
similitudes but also it works by
figurative reference, the influence
contrasts. What links these artists
of the photographic image and the
together in fact is contemporaneity
presence of the camera elements is
and the influence each of us has
visible.
from the pre-produced image of
While Mikaela Steby Stenfalk
what is or expect to be our reality.
doesn’t take photographs, she
The exhibition is built as a journey
uses Instagram images as the main
to explore the artworks and the artistic practice of each artist in all
“I’m very thankful to Donika Çina for inviting us to Albania and for letting us get to know the Albanian cultural scene as well as the country itself. It has been very inspiring and interesting. I hope there will be more chances for cultural exchange between our two countries. Donika has also done
its complexities. It is an invitation to explore not only a geographical journey to Rradhima but also our reality from a Nordic sky and sea perspective.
an incredible job in curating the show and I feel proud to exhibit next to such impressive artists. Our works are sometimes very different from each other’s, but Donika has found a way to connect our pieces in a very intriguing way.” -
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- Mikaela Steby Stenfalk
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“To me, the most important thing was to shine a light on the poetry of these timeless songs”
ELINA DUNI UNDER THE SPELL OF ALBANIAN TIMELESS SONGS BY RUDINA HOXHA “For the last 14 years I have been experimenting with mixing contemporary jazz with Balkan (mostly Albanian) traditional music. To me, the most important thing was to shine a light on the poetry of these timeless songs and to give them a new life through new sounds and arrangements.” This is how Elina Duni, the world-known Swiss-Albanian jazz singer and composer, starts her interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE. She was only 10 years old when she left Albania for Geneva, Switzerland. Duni went on to study jazz at the Swiss Jazz School in Bern, but from 2004 onwards Albanian folk music became her major inspiration. At the age of 17, she found herself under the spell of jazz while gaining some interest in Albanian folksong as well. “I began treating these songs like jazz standards, taking the essence of them and experimenting with
The cover of the new Album of Elina Duni & Rob Luft, “Lost Ships”
them in new ways,” Duni said in this interview. Now the singer is living in London whose good vibrations of London’s music scene has widened her musical horizons and has brought new musical ideas.
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“Since I met guitarist Rob Luft, a rising star of the London jazz scene, three years ago, I have been in contact with London-based jazz musicians and during that time I have also developed several new musical projects. My first album together with Rob, called “Lost Ships”, will be released on the fabled German label ECM records this November and it also includes compositions that we wrote together,” Duni says.
Full interview below:
sounds and arrangements. I was lucky enough to tour this music
How would you define your music
throughout the whole world.
style and why people worldwide
Memories of my childhood in
are so much in love with your
Albania, as well as my experience
music? What has been the role of
growing up as a jazz singer in
Albania in this respect?
Switzerland were both equally
For the last 14 years I have
important to the development
been experimenting with mixing
of the project. What’s more, the
contemporary jazz with Balkan
great musicians I was (and still am)
(mostly Albanian) traditional music.
collaborating with, such as Colin
To me, the most important thing
Vallon, Patrice Moret, Norbert
was to shine a light on the poetry
Pfammatter and Rob Luft have had a
of these timeless songs and to
significant role in the success of this
give them a new life through new
music on stage and on record.
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How did you get introduced to
began treating these songs like jazz
jazz music? Do you feel an equally
standards, taking the essence of
strong connection to Albanian
them and experimenting with them
music and jazz?
in new ways.
I was only seventeen years old,
I felt connected to both these
and I came from a predominantly
musical words and being able to
rock/blues background. I initially
bring them together allowed me to
discovered jazz music through
forge an identity as a musician and
legends such as Louis Armstrong,
as a human being. As a person ‘in
Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. But
exile’, you are often torn between
ultimately it was the music of Miles
two cultures, and music helped to
Davis, especially the album “Kind
reconciliate these two worlds
of Blue”, that really struck me. It
within me.
was like a real slap in the face! This is where my love for ‘modal jazz’
“I initially discovered jazz music through legends”
started, and since then it has never stopped. It was during this period that I began to gain some interest in Albanian folksong as well. Some years later, while studying at the Swiss Jazz School in Bern, it became my main source of inspiration and I
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You have moved from Switzerland
London’s music scene has widened
where you have lived and worked
my musical horizons and has
for many years to London.
brought new musical ideas. I truly
Why so?
hope that the catastrophic situation
Switzerland was (and still is) an
that many UK musicians have been
important place for the development
in for the past six months will not
of my career. It is also one of my
last too much longer. It is very
homes, a place where I have loving
sad to see many of these amazing
friends and close family. Since I met
musicians not being able to perform
guitarist Rob Luft, a rising star of the
and all these great, historical music
London jazz scene, three years ago,
venues being prevented from
I have been in contact with London-
bringing people together in the
based jazz musicians and during
sacred communion of music.
that time I have also developed several new musical projects. My
Besides the obvious importance
first album together with Rob, called
of the story that lyrics offer into
“Lost Ships”, will be released on the
music, what more strong points
fabled German label ECM records
do you and your singing reinforce
this November and it also includes
in the band?
compositions that we wrote together
I have always tried to avoid falling
(mostly in English, on this occasion!).
into the clichés of a singer backed
Feeling the good vibrations of
up by a band, and I have always
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tried to imagine myself as another
to be creative, you can simply
instrumentalist. To me, the place
lose touch with your creativity. But
given to instrumental solos in songs
how can one to force oneself to
is very important, as well as finding
be creative!? There are two very
space for collective improvisations
different ways that I have discovered
more related to textural sounds.
- the first is to practice the technical
This makes every concert like a new
‘nuts and bolts’ of music, and
journey for us on stage and for the
through such studious exercises,
audience, and it reinforces the joy of
one often finds fresh, new ideas.
music making together every time.
The other way is to let go of things totally and even to allow yourself to
How do you reinvent yourself as
become bored somehow, to ‘let the
creativity leads the way?
void fill you’. Strangely enough, that
The more time goes by, the more
is frequently when ideas begin to
I understand creativity as a tool
kick in.
that you have to practise every
I guess the ideal state is somewhere
day. Unfortunately, a musician’s life
in between these two antagonistic
is made up of lots of other jobs
ways. Some days you do one, some
than simply being creative, and it
other days the other. The most
is incredibly easily to lose oneself
important thing is that you must
in every day requirements such
never forget that you are a creative.
as travelling and administrative planning. If you don’t force yourself
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Why Choose One of the 63 Luxury Villas of Kep Merli? 146
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