MAGAZINE COVER TOURISM | HOSPITALITY | BUSINESS | DIPLOMACY | CULTURE
FEBRUARY 2021
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SPOTIFY’S WRAPPED CAMPAIGN
EASYPAY’S NEXT DECADE
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FERMA JONË
A RECIPE FROM “FERMA JONË”
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46 ALUKÖNIGSTAHL IN ALBANIA
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MARC JOUBERT
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NOVOTEL
MARTINA KASNYIK
MAKING GOLF MORE RELEVANT
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ARTEG
HOTCO
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REVENUE MANAGEMENT RESOURCES
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TWO RECIPES FROM AJAY MARKAN
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AgroTimeAL
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ALBERGO DIFFUSO
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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE EMBASSY OF SWEDEN.
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IS Toxic Work Culture and Bad Management Forcing Top Talent to Head to the Exit? BY JOSE PINTO*
A
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
toxic work
starts from the top with leaders
culture is costly.
missing or ignoring a perpetuating
Employee
toxicity running rampant within a
turnover
company, often ignoring signs of it
is costing
on a daily basis or avoiding listening
companies and
to the “good hearts” as we say.
countries billions of dollars each
It is in the leader’s hands to right the
year. High-performing and skilled
ship and sail forward with the
employees are “jumping ship” at
top talent and right attitude on
an alarming rate. New hires are
board. Straightening out the
ushered in to plug the gaps until,
company culture and eradicating
all too quickly, they quit too. The
toxicity by the root can be the
revolving door keeps on turning. The
difference between success or failure
productivity, efficiency, quality and
of your company.
profits decline at a fast pace, like the
Steering the ship on the correct
tyres on an F-1 car during a race.
course starts with you, the leader, no one else.
Is a toxic work culture, bad
Don’t delegate that issue, DO IT
management, or a ‘one man show’
YOURSELF.
company to blame?
It’s time to take off the blindfold,
According to several surveys
open your eyes and give place and
conducted by different sources
space to a more empowered team
Worldwide, 60% of employees have
with the correct blend of experience
left their jobs, or are considering
and new talent to determine
leaving because of bad bosses or
the course to take under your
poor company culture.
leadership.
While there are too many factors to consider everything that contributes to a toxic work culture, this usually
6
For that and among many other
7
E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
things I RECOMMEND that you
punishment
investigate and correct the
• Unsupportive leadership
following signs of toxicity within
• No praise for good work,
your company:
• No support for wrong doings or
• Disrespect, accusations, finger
encouragement for doing better
pointing and apportioning blame
next time
• Favoritism, gossiping, internal
• Poor safety, security, hygiene or
politics and drama
working conditions.
• Harassment, aggressive behavior
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
or bullying
It may be hard to admit that your
• Lack of empathy, appreciation or
work culture may be toxic, but…
support
if you were nodding your head and
• Dishonesty
answered yes to any of the above
the company.
• Excessive employee sick days
– your work culture may be a toxic
• They thrive when given autonomy
• An increasing number of work
one.
and authority and the tools to
mistakes and accidents
Empathise, Appreciate, Guide and finally, be with them during the good and bad times. “Culture is more important than vision. Some leaders have great vision, but have created a toxic culture where that vision will never happen.”
“Culture is more important than vision. Some leaders have great vision, but have created a toxic culture where that vision will never happen.”
exceed expectations
• High employee turnover
The thing is:
• Poor communication and unclear
• Your company’s success depends
How do you fix a toxic work
expectations
on how you and your team work
culture?
• Poor relationships and interactions
together.
A toxic culture cannot take root
between management and
• Your employees need to have a
without a fertile ground. Start
employees
psychologically safe workplace.
by examining your company’s
• Constant pressure to accomplish
• They need to feel appreciated,
leadership. Work your way across
more, overworked employees,
heard, understood, respected, and
the organization to the employees.
disrespect for work-life balance or
valued.
Listen. Take note. Plan a repair
unrealistic workloads or deadlines
• They want to have opportunities
strategy. Fix the problem.
• Employees work in a fear-
for self-improvement and
based environment: afraid to give
development.
Change won’t happen overnight.
feedback, afraid to make a mistake,
• They expect honesty, authenticity
But not taking action is something
afraid to speak up, fearful of
and support from their bosses and
you can’t afford not to do.
8
Show the way: Respect, Trust,
* Founder of JPHOSPITALITY.EU & Trailblazing Magazine
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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
OUR CLIENT’S BIGGEST INTEREST IS IN THE TOURISTIC AREAS OF ALBANIA
“ I be l i e ve t h at i n t h e n e x t 5 y e ar s, Ti r ana w ill b e al on g si d e ot h e r Eur ope an c api t al c i t i e s for w hat it w ill pr ovi d e for busi n e sse s an d c i t i ze n s wh o l i ve here,” says Eg l e n t Bi c i , CEO an d Co-foun d e r of Me i Realty (w w w. Me i . Al ), r e al e st at e i n ve st or / sal e s an d motiv ation t r ai n e r i n an e x c l usi ve i n t e r vi e w w ith TRAI LBLAZI N G M AG AZI N E.
B
ici says that
development projects being built.
there is a
Commercial and residential projects
very enticing
designed by some of the best
market in
architectural firms in Europe.”
Albania, with opportunities to invest in the
“I believe that the return on investment for investors will be really good.”
new resorts that are being built. “I believe that the return on investment for investors will be really good. The quality of the touristic villages, the administration, the quality of the materials used are to EU standards in most of them and that is something that I am really proud to see happening in my country,” he says. Bici also reveals that there is another group of buyers “who want to invest in Tirana, our capital city, where there are some fantastic
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REAL ESTATE
EGLENT BICI:
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
property, to installing a Smart Home
city, where there are some fantastic
system into their homes if needed.
development projects being
This is what we call a “One Stop
built. Commercial and residential
Shop”.
projects designed by some of the best architectural firms in Europe.
IF WE FOCUS SPECIFICALLY ON
They are not cheap but their build
PROPERTIES, WHAT IS ACTUALLY
quality is really impressive. This
LURING PROPERTY BUYERS RIGHT
will impact the whole economy,
NOW TO YOUR AGENCY?
not only of Tirana but of Albania
The clients are very different and
as well because they create the
their requests and needs are diverse
infrastructure for some big firms to
to assist them in making the right
but what has got the biggest
think about having their offices in
choices. I write investment because
interest at www.mei.al, especially
Tirana too. As we speak for example,
IT IS SUCH A GREAT HELP TO
that is how I feel about buying a
from clients coming from abroad, are
most of the big names in the Hotel
KNOW THAT MEI REALTY ACTS
property. I consider it as making an
apartments, villas and investments
Industry have already come to Tirana
AS A “ONE STOP SHOP” FOR
investment and we train our staff to
in the touristic areas, particularly at
or are in negotiations with some
ALL SERVICES RELATED TO REAL
be very aware of that.
our beautiful seaside. There is a very
of these new projects to come to
ESTATE. HOW IS MEI REALTY
Offering the “One Stop Shop”
enticing market, with opportunities
Tirana.
DOING?
service to our customers for their
to invest in the new resorts that are
I believe that in the next 5 years,
I strongly believe that it is a service
Real Estate investments is a must
being built. I believe that the return
Tirana will be alongside other
that we must provide for our
and a necessity because most
on investment for investors will be
European capital cities for what
customers and we as a company
people don’t know what should be
really good.
it will provide for businesses and
don’t consider ourselves as being
done and how much it costs, so it
The quality of the touristic villages,
citizens who live here.
in the Real Estate and Property
is our duty to inform them to the
the administration, the quality of the
business but as being in People’s
best of our knowledge. We assist
materials used are to EU standards
ARE YOU GENERALLY SEEING
business. Buying a house or an
them every step of the way from
in most of them and that is
HIGH DEMAND FOR PRICE
apartment is the biggest investment
finding the property to getting
something that I am really proud to
REDUCTION BECAUSE OF
and purchase that more than 90% of
their property deed, furnishing their
see happening in my country. There
COVID-19?
is another group of buyers who
There have been issues in our
Full interview below:
people will ever do, so we are here
want to invest in Tirana, our capital
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REAL ESTATE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
market because of Covid-19 but
OR PROJECTS THAT YOU WOULD
and I have learned a lot from his
Mei Realty, not only through our
there have not been many problems
SUGGEST TO OUR READERS?
lessons and continue to learn from
page www.mei.al but through other
from it. We have not seen any price
There are lots of new projects
him.
publications that we regularly do,
reduction because of the pandemic
happening in Tirana and our seaside
The best thing that I have got from
focus on our existing clients as
in our market and in general there
and I am including only a few
Tony is that life happens for us and
best we can and as well as trying to
haven’t been any issues regarding
options but if there is interest, we
not to us. It is everyone’s duty to
attract new clients.
the demand except for the March
can assist anyone with making the
continue learning every single day
Mei is committed to providing
and April time when we were in total
right investment.
of our lives and to add value to
the best, most reliable and secure
lockdown. That will mean there will
Tirana, our seaside areas starting
everything that we do in our life.
service that Albanian clients and
probably be a higher demand when
from Shengjin, Gjiri i Lalzit, Plazhi i
Saying that, the biggest influencer in
foreign investors can find.
the market goes in full steam. There
Gjeneralit, Dhermi, Vlora, Saranda,
my entire life in Albania is Vasil Naci;
The training of our staff in our
“There will probably be a higher demand when the market goes in full steam”
Ksamil etc are excellent investment
founder and CEO of Agna Group
industry is an integral part of Mei
opportunities.
who is my mentor and who adds
structures with a focus on increasing
value, not only to the employees of
expertise in the field of real estate
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE
Agna but to all the Albanian citizens
and professionalism in the services
A TOP PROPERTY EXPERT
who take part in his events: Road to
offered by our dedicated agents.
AND ESPECIALLY UNDER THE
Success.
Another differentiating element of
INFLUENCE OF TONY ROBBINS’
Going back to Tony, I have been
Mei in the Albanian market is the
MOTIVATIONAL LESSONS?
blessed to be exposed to such a
continuous innovation that Mei
are always properties that go for sale
Real Estate is one of my passions
mindset and I try to challenge myself
always brings to the market. Two
at a lower price than market value
and there is a lot to learn and grow
everyday to be the best version of
new products will be introduced
but they don’t stay on the market for
there. As I wrote at the beginning,
myself. Tony Robbins, his trainings,
during 2021. These products such as
long if they are ever on it. Most of
I believe that I am in People’s
his books and his podcasts, have
Buy-Sell and development projects
these transactions are done before
business so learning from Tony
helped me tremendously.
are designed to help customers and
going to the market but this has
Robbins\ https://www.tonyrobbins.
always happened and will always
com/ or other top trainers from all
WHAT MAKES MEI REALTY
can get out of any investment they
happen.
the around the world is one of my
DIFFERENT FROM THE OTHERS IN
are wanting to make.
never-ending objectives. Tony has
THE ALBANIAN MARKET? WHAT
We consider the purchase of a
been a great influencer in my life
ARE THE PLANS FOR 2021? ANY
property as an investment and we
EXPANSION?
like to make our clients believe that
WHAT ARE SOME PROPERTIES
investors to get the best service they
they are making an investment too. 14
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WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A SOCIAL PROGRESS
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H
ow do we do this?
1. At the Lake of Shkodra, our
We cooperate with
embassy partner ALTRI Center,
civil society partners,
implemented a successful project.
who have shown
The Center worked with 92 women
persistence, braveness and
to enhance their entrepreneurial
flexibility to ensure that women
skills and business services.
participate economically and
Furthermore, the ALTRI Center
impacting directly the daily life of
worked to formalize their activity
women and girls. We would like to
through the establishment of a
share three examples with you.
social business for the community of Shiroka.
AMBASSADOR OF THE KINGDOM OF THE NETHERLANDS TO ALBANIA, H.E. MRS. GUUSJE KORTHALS ALTES
THE GENDER EQUALITY AGENDA IS IMPORTANT FOR THE NETHERLANDS. THAT IS WHY WE ARE AND WILL REMAIN AN ENGAGED PARTNER IN PROMOTING HUMAN RIGHTS AND SOCIAL PROGRESS. ENCOURAGING WOMEN ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION IS ONE WAY WE WORK TO STRENGTHEN THE POSITION OF WOMEN AND GIRLS.
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WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
These women and girls have not
Rights Fund, the embassy supports
These interventions provide hope
the political, economic and social
only increased their incomes
the SEE Women project, an initiative
and perspective to individuals and
structures, is paramount. In many
through operating in a legally-
of NCCS. This project provides
disadvantaged communities. Local
cases governments, companies and
compliant environment, but they
employment to marginalized low-
power and ownership lead to a
local authorities adopt or adjust
also profit from social security
skilled women, including Roma and
lasting impact and granting justice
laws, regulations or social norms as a
benefits, access to finance
Egyptian, in deprived communities.
and rights.
result of advice or pressure from civil
mechanisms and wider market
The women are offered vocational
society organizations.
opportunities.
courses in embroidery, sewing
This is the core idea of the new
I believe that creating more
or daycare, serves. This not only
project “SHE Leads”. A project
and better jobs addresses the
empowers them and grants them
funded by the embassy and
marginalization of this vulnerable
income, it also serves as a measure
implemented by our CSO partner,
group. It provides them with
to prevent domestic violence and
GADC. There are three objectives
decent work and it reduces the
trafficking in the remote areas.
to this project: building a dialogue
unfair competition. From the social
It has been amazing to see the
platform between women in business
progress perspective, the benefits
ability of these women and girls
and the policy-makers; foster
certainly outweigh the costs of
women entrepreneurship through
formalization.
coaching programs; and promote access to finance by enhancing
Embassy masks produced by SEE Women trainees
2.The Sustainable Development Goals are guiding much of the
the cooperation with the financial institutions.
work the Netherlands is doing at
This project will be launched at the
home and abroad. We strive for
same time this publication.
inclusive development, that leaves
3. The Covid-19 pandemic has
The women in fisheries at the
no one behind. Through our Human
further exposed and accelerated the
Shkodra Lake, the women producing
“We strive for inclusive development, that leaves no one behind.”
prevailing gender inequalities and
the masks and the SHE Leads
injustices; it brings to light a level of
project, show our commitment as
to reinvent themselves and adopt
vulnerability, to which no country is
a partner when it comes to gender
to Covid-19 circumstances. They
fully immune.
equality. These small steps bring the
started producing face masks
COVID-19 has also impacted the
achievement of the UN Sustainable
immediately, initially in a modest
civic space worldwide. Therefore
Development Goals a step closer.
quality and quantity, but gradually
support to raise women’s voices,
During these last three years in
stepping up to better standards and
claim their rights and influence
Albania, I have been very much
higher productivity. 18
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
impressed by the power of women. I
Also close to my heart is the
have seen numerous girls and young
memory of the ‘ women in business’
women that are eager to transform
visit of Albanian women to the
their communities, strong women
Netherlands. Together with five
willing to engage in dialogue on
powerful Dutch ladies and with
issues regarding their education,
my Albanian counterpart in the
economic empowerment, leadership
Netherlands, we set up a program
development, and institutional
for a delegation of Albanian
strengthening.
ministers, entrepreneurs and
Facilitating these girls and young
leaders. Many of the contacts
women to fight against gender
established then are still a base for
injustice and work towards stronger
Albanian-Dutch cooperation.
economic inclusion is part of my work and very near to my heart.
The embassy will continue to
The civil society organizations, but
actively pursue women and girls
also the women in government
empowerment. By working in
institutions or politicians have
partnerships, we can make an
shown a great commitment to the
impact where it matters. And making
advancement of women. We cherish
a difference is what will bring us the
these partnerships.
just, equal and inclusive society we all want for our daughters.
“We cherish these partnerships.” 20
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Ideal if the Balkans Develop and Unify Their Hotel Star Rating Standards
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
“For hotel standards continuity throughout the Balkans coastal regions, it would be ideal if the various countries in this very unique region develops and unifies its own unique and more localized version of hotel star rating standards, requirements,” Graeme Alexander Anderson told TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE in an exclusive interview offering his services as an international interior design consultant. The British expert of interior design visited Albania almost 30 years ago when he was involved with what was going to be the Intercontinental hotel, later Sheraton Hotel and currently owned, operated and named MAK ALBANIA HOTEL. 22
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INTERIOR DESIGN BY GRAEME ALEXANDER ANDERSON
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
“It was obvious then that Albania
- IDStudio which embodies a
had the potential to be a fantastic
hospitality experience of 50 years.
tourist destination. Having over
Anderson and his Studio is
the years explored the Balkans and
ready to come to your needs.
indeed the world and now living
IDStudio (https://idstudio.net/)
in Athens, it’s even more clear the
is an international interior design
huge potential the Balkans coastal
consultant highly specializes in
areas and indeed Albania have for
hospitality and leisure industry,
developing tourism,” he says in this
which includes hotels, resorts,
exclusive interview.
conference centers, food & beverage outlets and spas. It is opening
In 2006, Anderson alongside Adlin
offices in Jeddah and Athens in
Saidon created the company
2021.
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:
a unique set of circumstances, Please can you make an
introduction of the ID Studio for
our readers and what makes it so
therefore we truly don’t have a favourite completed hotel, they are all our favourites for numerous
particular?
and varying reasons. We’ve been
International Design Studio
involved with 4 and 5 star hotels,
(IDStudio) - Established by Graeme
boutique hotels, new build
and Adlin in 2006 (combined
refurbishment, brand conversion,
hospitality experience of 50 years).
conversions etc, individual F&B
A hospitality interior architecture
outlets, f&B chains and developed
consultancy developing a synergy
various interior styles including,
between creativity & common sense. As ‘design-
ICR RAK - Lounge Bar
F&B outlets are designed with
a-holics’ our concepts are guided by a comprehensive understanding of
“ Albania has the potential to be a fantastic tourist destination”
transitional, traditional, warehouse, industrial and mid-century … Do you see
Albania and
the region in
any given brief either locally or internationally.
contemporary,
general in terms of your interest
Developing interiors for 4 &
and projects?
5 star hotels and indeed f&b
I first visited Albania almost 30 years
outlets whether its new build,
ago when I was involved with what
refurbishment, brand conversion
was going to be the Intercontinental
and or building conversion.
hotel, currently the Sheraton Hotel. It was obvious then that Albania
What are some of your favorite
completed projects and what is in
24
had the potential to be a fantastic tourist destination. Having over the
the pipeline?
years explored the Balkans
Each of our completed hotels and
and indeed the world and now living
25
INTERIOR DESIGN BY GRAEME ALEXANDER ANDERSON
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
unfortunately its quite the opposite.
huge potential the Balkans coastal
through a major refurbishment every 10 years.
areas and indeed Albania have
However we are fortunate to have
Therefore its important when
for developing tourism. For hotel
existing projects that have carried
you’re considering the style of
standards continuity throughout the
us through the last year. In relation
your interiors you don’t develop
Balkans coastal regions, it would be
to actual business development
a ‘fashionable’ interior that dates
ideal if the various countries in this
there has been very few rfp’s, the
within years of opening. Equally
very unique region develops and
lowest number since we started 16
as interior architects we are
unifies its own unique and more
years ago. The start of 2021 will
becoming increasingly aware
localized version of hotel star rating
hopefully see the start of the upturn
of the carbon foot print interior
standards, requirements .
to normality, normality being the
refurbishments have. It will be
summer season of 22.
increasingly important to ensure
How has your business evolved in lieu of the
pandemic and is any aspect that
has changed for the better?
Over the last year our business has not developed
that the consultant you employ
“ The start of 2021 will hopefully see the start of the upturn”
at all, indeed and
What are you
doing in Greece
right now? What are you working
repurposes parts of the existing interiors and or indeed utilises carbon free materials.
Based on your long and colorful
experience, when interior design is “good”? -
1. The planning is operational efficient and meets the various local and indeed international statutory requirements. 2. Both the hotel operator and client are happy that the designer has met their brief/budget. (Design consultant are contracted to follow the brief and not their own personal taste)
on the moment? In 2021 we’re
3. Whilst utilising cost-
opening an
effective materials,
office in Jeddah
the interior creates an
and indeed Athens. These Studio
impression that the
opening have been at least delayed
budget was much higher
6 months due to
than it actual was.
Covid-19 and the various lockdowns in
4. In the near future
different countries.
- that the carbon
On the positive note,
footprint for the
all hotel interiors are now 1 year older and even closer to requiring
interior fitout met the appropriate requirements .
a refurbishment. The majority of hotels go
26
A good interior –
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INTERIOR DESIGN BY GRAEME ALEXANDER ANDERSON
in Athens, it’s even more clear the
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
THE 2020 GLOBAL RESULTS OF SPOTIFY’S WRAPPED CAMPAIGN 2020 was a year to remember — being physically apart for so long, yet somehow finding ways to come together as a resilient community. Before the end of this year, Spotify celebrated the creators behind the music and podcasts of 2020. And Spotify’s 2020 Wrapped is here to do just that.
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S P OT I F Y
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
MUSIC (GLOBAL)
potify is unveiling the top artists, albums, songs, playlists and podcasts that defined how more than 320 million people around the world listened and discovered audio. Whether it was to stay informed, sing along or simply tune it all out, people kept
listening and creators never missed a beat.
• With more than 8.3 billion streams this year, Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny is our most-streamed artist of 2020. Check out Bad Bunny’s reaction when he first learned the news HERE. Following Bad Bunny is Drake and
So, what artists and podcasters defined a year unlike any other? Below you
the third most-streamed artist of the year is J Balvin, followed by the late
will find Spotify’s full 2020 Wrapped results.
rapper Juice WRLD and The Weeknd. • Billie Eilish continues her reign as Spotify’s most-streamed female artist for the second year in a row, followed by Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande in the second and third spots. Coming in as the fourth and fifth moststreamed female artists are Dua Lipa and Halsey. • The most-streamed song of 2020 is The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” with almost 1.6 billion streams this year. In the second and third spots respectively, are Tones And I’s “Dance Monkey” and Roddy Ricch’s “The Box.” The fourth most-streamed song of the year is “Roses - Imanbek Remix” by Imanbek and SAINt JHN, followed by Dua Lipa’s “Don’t Start Now.” • The most-streamed album globally of 2020 is Bad Bunny’s YHLQMDLG with over 3.3 billion streams, followed by The Weeknd’s After Hours and Post Malone’s Hollywood’s Bleeding. Rounding out the list of top albums are Harry Styles’ Fine Line and Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia.
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S P OT I F Y
S
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
• The year’s most popular Spotify editorial playlist is Today’s Top Hits, which
For even more, check out Spotify’s blog For the Record and the latest
has more than 27M followers.
episode of our Spotify: For the Record podcast to hear Bad Bunny’s reaction to the news (check out the video here) as most streamed artist of the year, dive even deeper into the streaming trends of 2020 and learn how
PODCASTS (GLOBAL) • The Joe Rogan Experience takes the number one slot for most popular podcast of the year globally. Coming in second and third are TED Talks Daily and The Daily, showing that listeners were staying in the know as usual. The fourth most popular podcast is The Michelle Obama Podcast, followed by the comedy/advice show Call Her Daddy. • And the podcast genres people were most drawn to in 2020? Coming in at number one is Society & Culture, followed by Comedy. Spots three and four were Lifestyle & Health and Arts & Entertainment, respectively. Filling in the fifth spot on our top global genres list is Education.
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Wrapped evolved this year. Hi-res images to include in your story here. Breakdown of top global results are also included below.
SPOTIFY 2020 WRAPPED GLOBAL TOP LISTS: Most Streamed Artists Globally 1.
Bad Bunny
2.
Drake
3.
J Balvin
4.
Juice WRLD
5.
The Weeknd
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S P OT I F Y
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Most Streamed Female Artists
3.
1.
Billie Eilish
4. “Roses - Imanbek Remix” by Imanbek and SAINt JHN
2.
Taylor Swift
5.
3.
Ariana Grande
4.
Dua Lipa
Most Popular Podcasts Globally
5.
Halsey
1.
The Joe Rogan Experience
2.
TED Talks Daily
Most Streamed Albums Globally
3.
The Daily
1.
YHLQMDLG, Bad Bunny
4.
The Michelle Obama Podcast
2.
After Hours, The Weeknd
5.
Call Her Daddy
3.
Hollywood’s Bleeding, Post Malone
4.
Fine Line, Harry Styles
Most Popular Podcast Genres Globally
5.
Future Nostalgia, Dua Lipa
1.
“The Box” by Roddy Ricch “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
Society & Culture
2. Comedy Most Streamed Songs Globally
3. Lifestyle & Health
1.
“Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
4.
Arts & Entertainment
2.
“Dance Monkey” by Tones And I
5.
Education
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S P OT I F Y
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EASYPAY’S NEXT DECADE, WHAT COMES NEXT?
D
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URING THE PAST
hard is building it, finding the right
DECADE, THE START-
partners and the right team, getting
UP ‘ECOSYSTEM’
the product design right, all of the
IN ALBANIA HAS
marketing and commercial activities,
WITNESSED PLENTY
etc.
OF BUSINESSES GROWING AND BECOMING SUCCESSFUL. NOW, AS WE CONSIDER ONE OF THE
I have always been and still am very
BIGGEST NAMES IN THIS ECOSYSTEM,
involved in the company.
WE COME ACROSS THE NAME
Creating and scaling up a business,
OF EASYPAY AND ITS CEO AND
apart from everything else, is very
FOUNDER, LINDA SHOMO.
challenging, especially if you are the first company in the FinTech
A decade in the Albanian market,
industry in Albania. Being the first
10 million
mover in the market means that you
transactions, 460
are responsible for transforming
agents and 36
consumer purchasing behaviour
services. Can you
through services for merchants in the
tell us what it was like and what sensations did you experience? The last 10 years have been really busy! It feels like yesterday when it all started! Launching a new company in the market is easy, what is really
36
“payment as a service” market. EasyPay is now the leading FinTech institution in Albania and has proven to be efficient and easily adaptable to the frequent changes that occur in a market such as Albania. In its beginnings, the company started with a product very different from today, and over the years managed to pivot and improve, responding to market needs, standing out from other competitors, and turning
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all the challenges that came from
today has turned into a successful
the tireless work from the team of
with one of the three largest money
the business environment, into
reality.
developers, the number of agents in
transfer operators in the world,
opportunities.
EasyPay started its activity in
the country has increased. In a short
Ria Money Transfer, that affirmed
The history of EasyPay started as an
2010 as an online distributor for
time we reached 195 physical points
EasyPay as a successful operator in
inevitable need of the country and
two of the largest companies in
throughout Albania and we began
the remittance market. In addition
the Albanian financial system for
the market, Digitalb and Plus
to offer our service even to those
to this market development, the
a comprehensive digital payment
Communication. Just one year after,
who do not have access to bank
range of services in the mobile app
platform. It was the time when the
EasyPay managed to expand its
services. In 2014, EasyPay introduced
and the number of physical points
term “online payment” was almost
geographical coverage, enabling
its first online payment application,
in the country, continued to grow.
unknown to the local population.
the Albanian diaspora to purchase
complementing the range of services
At the same time, the youthful
That was when I decided to take
subscriptions online, thanks to its
offered with water-bill payments and
and energetic team working on
the first steps towards a dream that
integration with PayPal. Thanks to
police fines. That year, EasyPay was
behalf of EasyPay, provided the
38
introduced as a
app with the QR code reader,
payment platform
fingerprint authentication, and
for merchants and
push notifications, the first such
at the same time,
developments in the market!
the number of
Time passed and the local market
agents continued
developed rapidly. The year of
to increase,
2017 brought an improvement
numbering 250
in the social life of local youth
EasyPay PoS
by significantly increasing the
throughout the
number of activities / events in the
country.
country. Concerts, charity events,
By 2016, we’d
performances by international
brought much
and national artists increased
innovation and
significantly. To be as close as
development
possible to the local consumer
to the company
demands and the technological
and it was the
and market developments, EasyPay
collaboration
introduced to the market their
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TECHNOLOGY
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and develop most of E-Ticket platform, which offered the
expanded to 2 locations in the Bllok
the services in house:
purchase of online tickets via Easypay
area which are very comfortable
platforms, marketing,
or via cards.
with most of our offices having a lot
communication, etc.
During these 10 years, EasyPay has
of light. They are warm, informal,
• Great communication
become an important reseller in the
full of energy and a lot of intensive
and organisation
market, meeting the needs of all
discussion. There are many young
• Market analysis and
generations who have or don’t have
people behind EasyPay’s success!
careful analysis of
bank accounts to make their payments.
customers’ needs.
2020 marked the tenth anniversary of
Throughout the years, small
EasyPay in the market. It coincided
and medium enterprises (SME),
with a difficult year with the pandemic
online merchants, and consumers
and turned out to be one full of
have gradually become part of
challenges and opportunities for the
our platform and now we are
digital platforms!
proudly counting over 10 million transactions, 460 agents and 36+
Where do the great products of
services. More offices, services,
Easy Pay come from?
merchants, agents, and clients are definitely positive outcomes that
The history of EasyPay isn’t a long
show the hard work of our team
one, but there are plenty of flows
members, who have developed
and tipping points spread across the
everything in house, and our loyal
digital payment company’s 10 year
user base, which should expand as
history.
younger consumers embrace the digital-payment platform.
10 years ago, EasyPay was founded
EasyPay will continue TO SUMMARISE, EASYPAY’S SUCCESS CAN BE PUT DOWN TO A NUMBER OF REASONS: • Clear vision and objectives of where we want to go and a very detailed action plan to achieve those objectives. • Focus on human capital: At EasyPay we pay special attention to our human capital. We give the opportunity for everyone to perform at his/her best, and we support that with continuous training and development programmes.
and started its activity in one
• In House activities: All team
apartment in the Bllok area in Tirana, by offering effortless digital payments for consumers and businesses.
members work with dedication and enthusiasm for every new and existing project. We create
Nowadays, EasyPay’s offices have
40
growing and innovating the digital payment space in Albania as even more competition rises to grab a share of the boom of ecommerce payments - one of the most lucrative markets in an expanding consumer and business technology market. Let’s go back to the process of creating these products. How different was it back in 2010 when you and your team were developing and introducing the first products? A product development process at EasyPay has always been a very delicate process in which we involve all departments of the company: IT,
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TECHNOLOGY
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Sales, Finance and Marketing. Each
the IT team is in charge of
in the processes, which means
learning / online, and local resellers
new project moves sequentially
conceptualisation and modelling;
more creativity, work and intense
are building online platforms or
from phase to phase: concept
the Finance department are in
discussions.
adding digital payment methods.
development, feasibility testing,
charge of all financial related issues;
product design, development
and the Sales team are responsible
How did the COVID 19 pandemic
places with limited capacity, should
process, pilot production, and final
for making it accessible to the
influence EasyPay activity?
definitely support their business
production. Under this method,
market.
The global health crisis caused
in taxi (delivery) service formats.
by Covid-19 speeded up in a few
Likewise, food or other product
all departments / functions are
Furthermore, restaurants and
specialised and segmented: the
Nothing has changed in this
months what EasyPay has been
delivery operators should use digital
marketing team examine the
process since then! But nowadays
doing in the last 9 years in the
payment formats to eliminate as
customer needs and perceptions
the departments are bigger,
Albanian market: accelerating the
much physical money as possible.
in developing product concepts;
and more people are involved
adoption of digital payments by
Compatibility and versatility are
consumers and
the two competitive advantages
businesses. In the
of the FinTech industry, so this
first quarter of the
gives EasyPay the opportunity to
year, the number
be proactive during the pandemic.
of new customers
Thanks to the partnership and
on the EasyPay
support of Risi Albania, EasyPay
platform doubled,
carefully studied the payment sector
while the number
of the market and developed and
of transactions in
launched several digital service
the app more than
packages during the first half of
tripled.
“The number of new customers on the EasyPay platform doubled”
Medical institutions are running their telemedicine businesses, schools are taking steps towards distance 42
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TECHNOLOGY
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2020 aimed at increasing sales
b) QR Code-payments
In 2021, EasyPay will continue
payment sector, providing consumer
through e-commerce and online
Digitalisation has long been identified
its focus on the small domestic
protection, enabling the expansion
payments. This led to investments
as an essential part of a country’s
merchants (POS payments),
of the banking services across the
and to increased employment (a
economy. The current crisis we’re
especially in the agro and tourism
country, etc. More competition
common goal of this partnership).
going through has accelerated
sectors, trying to better serve their
means more opportunities and
E-commerce provides great
the transition of customers using
payment needs. During 2020, we
room to grow. Of course, successful
opportunities to local businesses
traditional financial services to the
spent a lot of time researching
implementation of the law requires
to increase sales, investment and
FinTech sector, giving this sector an
these segments and have identified
collaboration between the market
employment. Electronic payments
extraordinary opportunity to instantly
several financial gaps that we will
players, and we are happy to be part
enable companies to generate faster
increase its services, geographic
aim to fulfil in the near future.
of this open-banking revolution.
revenues, increase customers, and
coverage and public image.
As previously mentioned, during
We feel very positive to collaborate
strengthen business relationships.
2020 we developed and presented
and better serve the individuals and
Digital payment solutions will
in the market the Peer to Peer
businesses in the payment sector.
contribute toward the local and rural
How will you expand the product
and QR payment services to
Last but not least in our future plans
economy, while it is estimated that
portfolio of Easy Pay for 2021 and
simplify everyday transactions.
is the market across our borders. The
60% of the population are outside
on?
In the coming years, EasyPay will
disruption happening now in Europe
continue to explore opportunities
is not far away from our region. With
the banking system. With the support of Risi Albania, the following
The rules of the game in new
that will improve these segment
more than 67 FinTechs operating
services are now live in the Albanian
product development are changing.
requirements by continuing to seek
in the whole region, the potential
market:
Many banks and companies have
ways to expand both its product
is great. Therefore, we will seek
a)
discovered that it takes more than
and service portfolio and market
and explore the region and identify
Real-time electronic money transfer
the accepted basics of high quality,
segments.
potential partnerships that will allow
services via mobile, EasyTransfer
low cost and differentiation to excel
An important development in
our company to provide / expand
service, enabling individuals and
in today’s competitive market. It
the payment sector in Albania
our payment services abroad.
businesses fast and secure money
also takes speed and flexibility! This
at the beginning of 2021, is the
transfer services and giving them the
new emphasis calls for a different
implementation of the PSD2 law.
opportunity to choose where and
approach for managing new product
This implementation is expected to
when they want to receive money,
development, especially if you are
bring a positive impact and foster
compared to the equivalent service
a company working in the FinTech
the Fintech sector in the country by
of physical money.
sector.
stimulating the competition in the
Peer to Peer payments
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ALUKÖNIGSTAHL:
A
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luKönigStahl does not stop a minute, it did not even during 2020 despite the pandemic. Driven by technology and innovation, this company of 150 years of partnership
Excellent, beautiful and sustainable solutions for Tirana’s towers and Albania’s construction projects. Safe and high quality.
In an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE, Alexander Riemer,
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
Head of Product Management Schüco at AluKönigStahl describes how this
and quality, kept invented products that fit in various types of projects, thus enlarging the portfolio of products and its clients worldwide.
company travelled throughout 2020 and the new products it introduced to its clients. “AluKönigStahl started the “AKS Online Workshop Days” in the summer. Over the course of 24 online seminars, each about 1 to 1,5 hours, we reported on new products and on technical topics. This included questions on building physics, information on sun protection, our software solutions and, of course, we also exhibited new products,” Riemer told TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE. He is happy the Albanian market is ‘devouring’ Schüco and Jansen products. “As for new projects, I can say that we are in the bidding phase in almost all the towers that are under construction in Tirana,” Riemer says, adding “There is also increased interest from private owners to install Schüco Brand Systems in their individual luxury villas!”
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CONSTRUCTION
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Read the full interview below: How was 2020 for AluKönigStahl
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meant cancelling planned events
motorised.
Particularly unusual shapes can
and transferring our activities
Panorama means that aluminium
be realised, such as diagonally
online.
frames are invisibly built into the wall mounted cross profiles, and it is also
and how much did technology/
and the central hooking areas are
easy to shift panels sideways.
innovation come to your aid?
AluKönigStahl started the “AKS
extremely slim.
The company started 2020 full
Online Workshop Days” in the
Many types can be built, according
In the window sector, we presented
of enthusiasm and ideas. Like
summer. Over the course of 24
to the taste and wishes of the client:
the Schüco AWS 75 PD.SI series,
everywhere else in the world,
online seminars, each about 1 to
straight solutions, over-corner
a solution with particularly narrow
information about Covid reached
1,5 hours, we reported on new
solutions, 1-rail, 2-rail and 3-rail
frame profiles, for which
us around February and action was
products and on technical topics.
installations up to 18 m wide.
a
taken in all organisations. First and
This included questions on building
Particularly attractive are
foremost, this
physics, information on sun
the “InWall” solutions,
protection, our software solutions
where the sliding doors
and, of course, we also exhibited
retract sideways into the
new products. The 24 topics were
wall when opened and are
presented in both German and
then invisible.
English. In the field of façades, we In the case of sliding doors particularly, we expanded our product range to so-called
introduced the new Schüco Unitized Dynamic Construction UDC 80 unitised façade series
Panorama Design variants. These
as of the end of 2020.
can be operated manually or
Prefabricated façades consist of sub-elements that are prepared entirely in the workshop. The frames, which can weigh up to 1.5 t, can be quickly assembled on site one after the other and lined up one above the other so installation takes place in a short space of time.
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CONSTRUCTION
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ordering processes between our
special handle design is also
Asonic.
available. As with the sliding doors,
During light activity, a person
In connection to our online
a point has been reached at which
breathes 20l of CO2 and 35g of
webinars, we should also mention
very elegant solutions can be built.
water into the room per hour, and
the fundamentally enormous push
How successful has AluKönigStahl
quantities are quickly produced that
in the field of digitalisation. For
been in the Albanian market so
Most products can be electrified.
reduce the ability to concentrate.
example, we have been offering our
far and can you mention any new
Either one only checks by a
In summer, windows can be opened,
customers and partners our entire
projects for 2021 and beyond?
magnetic switch whether the
but in the transitional months and
documentation online for many
The Albanian market is quite unique
elements are open or closed. For
in winter, such ventilation is very
years - subdivided into information
and complex for doing business.
windows and sliding doors, there
pleasant and beneficial.
for architects and planners as well as
AluKönigStahl has managed to
for metal construction companies.
be very successful in different
are completely concealed motor
customers and us.
referential projects.
solutions and for door systems,
The decisive factor for planners,
elegant access controls are possible
architects and clients is that the
Schüco and Jansen offer calculation
with the Schüco DCS Door Control
elements look good when they are
programs that can also control
I could mention a few iconic towers
System.
installed and that you see as much
machines and thus enable the
in the centre of Tirana, which have
to the outside with as few frames as
processing of profiles, thus
been developed using Schüco
We also presented ventilation units
possible.
improving the production quality.
Brand Systems. The redesign of the
for room ventilation such as the
For metal construction companies,
Schüco VentoTherm Twist or the
the most important thing is that the
This software is also the basis for the
the National Theatre and Assembly,
particularly sound-insulated Schüco
constructions are easy to work with
Schüco SPC product configurator.
the Rainbow Center and the new
VentoFrame
and easy to install.
Panorama sliding doors and
offices of the
National Stadium, reconstruction of
entrance doors can be configured The webinars were used by our partners and it was a surprise for us that so many employees from
in a similar way to how online configurators from the car industry work.
companies in all the countries we serve, took part. Because of that, we will continue that service.
Other digital tools include BIM, i.e., the digital preparation of building projects. And the next steps will be EDI systems, which means direct
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Albanian Football Association. Also,
bidding phase in almost all the
challenging subjects in the countries
been created in this way, which
Tirana Forever Green, for which I’d
towers that are under construction in
mentioned.
planners already use extensively.
like to give my special thanks to
Tirana.
Investor Mr. Xhaferi for entrusting
We already started implementation
What are the most significant
The most important requirement,
us and our local Partner “Teha
of our systems in the Orion Business
market challenges in the steel and
however, is that in addition to the
Construction”, to accomplish this
Center.
aluminium industry at present, and
now much-used online meetings, we
wonderful project!
There is also increased interest from
how is AluKönigStahl addressing
continue to have personal contact
private owners to install Schüco
them?
with our clients and partners. This
As for new projects, I can say that
Brand Systems in their individual
One of the special challenges of
promotes a good
we are in the
luxury villas!
today is ‘resource-friendly’ material management. This means
Is AluKönigStahl planning to
that components that
venture into any new markets in
are dismantled should be
the near future?
returned to the material
AluKönigStahl is the license partner
cycle. Aluminium is a
of Schüco and Jansen in the systems
particularly valuable material
sector.
here because it can easily
For Schüco, we currently serve the markets of Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Austria, Serbia, Bosnia
be reused. Several Cradle to Cradle - C2C certificates exist for our series.
Hercegovina, Albania, Northern Macedonia, Kosovo, Moldova and Montenegro, Slovenia and Croatia.
Another important topic is building certificates. Certificates are issued according to specific
For Jansen, there is also Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. We always like to look beyond
criteria on ecology, economy and human use, which provide a buyer with information on how carefully
the borders, but there are
a project was developed and which
plenty of interesting and
materials were used. Corresponding certificates and web platforms have
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climate for discussion and the health
This includes fire protection, blast
of all of us is maintained so we can
and burglary protection, bullet
return to a regular business life after
resistance, lightning protection and
the end of the Covid period.
solutions for connection to building management systems.
Over more than a decade, what improvements have AluKönigStahl
If a solution outside of the
made to their existing products to
existing catalogues is needed,
achieve such high-quality products
our employees in the technical
that can fit any type of project?
departments come on the scene.
The special feature of Schüco and
They deal with special solutions and
Jansen products - as also in the steel
project-specific elaborations. This
trade - is that, with all due respect to
can result in 30 -50 special profiles
our competitors, our product range
or items for just one particular
is far wider than that of any other
project, secured and co-confirmed
supplier.
by Schüco and Jansen.
You can obtain all products you
Only high-quality products offer
need in the building envelope
a long service life, good function
from us along with the appropriate
and are also a beautiful design
advice and counselling support,
with minimal or no requirement for
organisationally, technically and in
maintenance. That is our credo.
terms of calculation and design. Our team deals with solutions for high-rise buildings, renovation solutions, private buildings, commercial buildings and solutions for schools, universities and hospitals.
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FERMA JONË Promoting Albanian Traditional Local Products from North to South BY RUDINA HOXHA
SWEDEN’S EU CHALLENGE FUND WAS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO US. IT GIVES US THE POSSIBILITY TO SOLVE ONE OF OUR CHALLEGES: REDUCE THE WASTE AT MAXIMUM.
S
onjela Borova, Co-
chains of the food production.
Founder of Ferma
This will not only make us increase
Jonë sits with
profits (reducing the waste) but will
TRAILBLAZING
diversify our business operation as
MAGAZINE to depict
well, Borova says in this interview.
the journey of her
They did not win EU Challenge Fund
business which after two years now,
with their first application.
has made it to promote Albanian
“We earned the EU Challenge Fund
local produces throughout the
this year, but this was not our first
country.
year to apply there. We kept trying
This year, with the support of
,” Borova says.
Swedish EU Challenge Fund, Ferma
56
Jonë has started to implement
She believes that Innovation and
its project to go agroprocessing.
Creative Ideas make Ferma Jonë
“In this way we complite all the
stands out in the market.
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FULL INTERVIEW BELOW: Thank you for being with
Trailblazing Magazine. Could you
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products, what Albania can offer etc,
local products, organic agriculture
everywhere in Albanian families and
especially this was more important
and small farmers of Albania from
promote our brand. However, what
to all of us, when our families were
North to South.
is most important besides marketing tools, is the QUALITY. The quality
growing with children. We decided
please give us a short overview
to make something concrete, to
about how you became an
have a small farm in Baldushk
entrepreneur as well as why you
village in Tirana and start producing
In your opinion what makes Ferma Jonë stand out from the rest?
How do you manage to ensure
founded Ferma Jonë?
organic vegetables, salads for our
healthy and high-quality food for
First of all we would like to thank you
families. Then we start with a sellling
your clientele?
for giving us the opportunity of this
point in Tirana offering to others
We believe Innovation and Creative
interview. As you may know, Ferma
our products and our experience.
Ideas, have distinguished us from
Jonë is a business created by two
Then step by step, we continued
other competitors. Ferma Jonë
families, friends with each other. We
creating a network of Albanian
had from the beginning an online
were always discussing about the food
local producers, wonderful and
presence, a website, social media
quality, organic agriculture, traditional
hardworking people of rural Albania
pages and gave importance
who needed
to the promotion, marketing,
to find a way
communication etc. Especially after
to promote
the Covid 19 crisis, we were able
what they
through our online initiative to go
is something we do not negotiate. We make frequent analyses to our products, take advice from the best agronomists in the market, have
were doing and reach the consumers. After two years now, Ferma Jonë is the business and the platform that supports and promotes traditional
58
“We believe Innovation and Creative Ideas, have distinguished us from other competitors.”
a very good collaboration with genetic bank of Albania in order to cultivate autoktonus Albanian products etc. The same requirements we
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S TA R T U P/ E U C H A L L E N G E F U N D
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
are asking from our network of
another strong point of Ferma Jonë.
consulting with experts and try to
team and we have divided our works
collaborators as well. We advice
Recently we have implemented
finance these ideas through different
in order to sucessfully implement on
them through our experts on how to
online a code of colors for our
projects.
time the new idea financed by the
produce in order to have qualitative
products toward our customers.
EU Challenge Fund was a great
EU Challenge Fund.
products.
With each color we use for a specific
opportunity to us. It gives us the
Communication with customers in
product we are giving to our
possibility to solve one of our
“Communication with customers in another strong point of Ferma Jonë.”
customers information regarding the
challeges: reduce the waste at
product origin. Transparency and
maximum.
their own agtech company?
communication with them regarding
We will have the opportunity
We believe that the agriculture in
all the questions they might have
through this fund to start
Albania has a lot of opportunities
we believe has influenced their
agroprocessing. In this way we
especially for the young people.
confidence to our business too.
complite all the chains of the food
Innovation and creative ideas always
production . This will not only make
find their way. Agriculture is an open
us increase profits (reducing the
field for innovation. Of course there
waste) but will diversify our business
might be dificulties but dont be
operation as well.
afraid to fail, keep trying.
How crucial was the awarding
of EU Challenge Fund to Ferma Jonë? How did it influence its further
development
as a company?
60
What is your advice to young
entrepreneurs looking to kick off
We earned the EU challenge fund this year, but this was not our first What are your future plans with
year to apply there. We kept trying.
Ferma Jonë is
the EU Challenge capital?
always under
We have just started to implement
the pressure
the project. We are searching
to improve
for a location where our
itself. Thus
agroprocessing point and selling
we are always
point will be located. Meanwhile
discussing and
we have selected the necesary
generating
new euipments needed for
ideas among
the agroprocessing point. Staff
us, taking
interviewes are taking place as well.
surveys with
There are a lot of activities to be
“We believe that the agriculture in Albania has a lot of opportunities .”
customers,
implemented, but we function as a
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S TA R T U P/ E U C H A L L E N G E F U N D
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
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A Recipe from “Ferma Jonë” “Fasule Korçe” Beans from Korça Ingredients (3 - 4 persons) • 300 g beans • green pepper • carrots • onion • 150 g tomato sauce • parsley • salt • red pepper • laurel leaf
Beans are a traditional plate of Albanian families. In Korça, say, people eat beans each Friday:) The recipe is very easy. We clean the beans and put them in water, one day before. Next day, we remove the water from previous day and we put the beans in hot water. We add carrots, onion, green pepper and boil them for 30 minutes.Then, we prepare the sauce: tomato sauce, onion, a pinch of salt, pepper, parsley, laurel leaf and olive oil. Then we mix the beans with the sauce and leave them to boil for some minutes. Beans are ready. We can eat them with olives or pickles 62
63
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Photo credit: Salamon Photography
ALBANIA IS UNIQUE BECAUSE IT’S A VERY CREATIVE, INTERNATIONAL AND OPEN-MINDED SOCIETY THAT IS DEVELOPING QUICKLY. WE WANT TO HELP BY CONTRIBUTING IDEAS NOW AND DEVELOPING PROPOSALS THAT WILL MAKE ALBANIA AN EVEN BETTER PLACE IN THE FUTURE, FOR ALBANIANS AND VISITORS.
M
MARC JOUBERT:
arc Joubert is
on many projects including being
proud of all of
invited to enter the competition
his projects so far
for the new Municipality of Tirana
but even more
as well as ‘Parklife’ project in the
of Lake Views
south of Tirana, which has started
Residences because “it will be a
construction.
unique part of the city with its own identity, while very well connected
Full interview below:
to its surroundings.” Everyone who takes a stroll or
If People are Asked Where They Live, Saying ‘Lake Views’ Will be Enough!
For Lake Views, Joubert said that they were inspired by Mediterranean hotel architecture. “We imagined a hotel atmosphere, where
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
a run at Park of Tirana wonders
about Lake Views and Residences design. How did you come to this
particular architecture that fits so
people can feel like they’re on a
well in this part of Tirana city?
vacation when they come home,
When we were asked to produce a
while having all the facilities and
proposal for the Lake Views location,
advantages of living in the city,” he
we already had some experience in
said in an exclusive interview with
Tirana and knew the location well.
TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE.
With this unique location so close to
Joubert’s architecture studio - JA
the city centre and on the edge of
Joubert Architecture, is working
the lake and park, we wanted to take
Marc Joubert
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In your opinion, what ways does
Lake Views make headlines? Can you share some interesting facts about it?
It will be a unique part of the city with its own identity, while
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
is clear that you have previous
sometimes we have to wait before
experience in Albania and the
making them public…!
here? Is Albania already a pot of
In 1996, you went to Netherlands
there any other project coming
international projects. How
Balkans. What attracts you
imagination and creativity? Are
to get involved in different
important was this period of time
very well connected to its
soon?
surroundings. If people are
We work all over, in France,
on your career as an architect?
asked where they live, saying ‘Lake
Netherlands, Germany, South Africa
I have always worked worldwide
Views’ will be enough!
and others as well as Albania.
since I started my career. With
We were inspired by Mediterranean
Albania is unique because it’s a
my origins in South Africa and
them as well as the views to the
hotel architecture. We imagined a
very creative, international and
Germany and our company JA
mountains and hills surrounding
hotel atmosphere, where people
open-minded society that is
Joubert Architecture founded in
Tirana.
can feel like they’re on a vacation
developing quickly. We want to
The Netherlands, it was natural to
We wanted to maximise views
when they come home, while having
help by contributing ideas now and
work worldwide. Since the mid 90’s,
for all the buildings’ inhabitants,
all the facilities and advantages of
developing proposals that will make
I have worked on every continent in
not just the top floors. If they
living in the city.
Albania an even better place in the
the world, but I learnt that quality,
future, for Albanians and visitors.
originality and attention to detail is
full advantage of its connections to
are in apartments, offices or the How has it been for you working
hotel, they deserve the best views
with Gener 2 professional staff
possible. So we knew from the
and team? Can you share any
beginning we didn’t want the same height blocks or towers next to each
moments you remember from this
universal! We are working on several projects in our offices including being invited to enter the competition for the new
other. If you look carefully you can
experience?
Municipality of Tirana. We are also
see we undulated the buildings
The speed of the design process
working on our ‘Parklife’ project
vertically to create green terraces
was impressive. When we had our
in the south of Tirana, which has
with views on the edges and twisted
first proposals, working in our
started construction. In Rotterdam,
the buildings so that vistas are
offices in Rotterdam, we invited
we are building a new sports facility
never blocked. Every building has
them for a collaboration meeting.
and on Cyprus we are working on a
maximum views while still being
They booked a flight and were in
new resort and marina. There are
connected to the neighborhood!
our office the next morning!
several interesting projects under development but as you know,
Going through your portfolio, it 66
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ARCHITECTURE
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Novotel to Grow by Seventy Hotels BY JULIANA HAHN
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
Interestingly, 27 are in various
offer throughout the day, as well as
phases of construction at the
the lobby lounge with a cafeteria
moment, while another 32 are still in
corner and the 24-hour room service.
the planning phase.
The hotel will be located on Olaya
Novotel’s main growth regions
Street, in the north of the Saudi
APAC will be the region with the
capital, just 35 km from King Khaled
most openings, with twenty projects
International Airport.
and 5,870 rooms. Europe is close
For its part, the Novotel Doha West
behind, with 16 projects and 3,066
Bay, located in one of the most
new rooms.
privileged areas of Doha, will be
The Middle East is in third place,
part of Al Baker Hotel Towers. The
with thirteen new hotels and 4,958
53-story hotel will feature 396 rooms
rooms, and Africa is close behind
and suites, as well as a variety of
with twelve projects and 2,014
restaurants and leisure facilities.
The TOPHOTELPROJECTS
rooms. South America is next with
Albaker Architects and interior
construction database shows that
six launches and 832 rooms, and
designers from Bluu Qatar give this
Novotel plans to open seventy hotels
North America concludes the list
property a dynamic look ahead of
worldwide in the coming years.
with a project of three hotels and
its planned launch in the second
358 rooms.
quarter of 2021.
Novotel has 70 hotels with 17,098
When it comes to growing domestic
Finally, Novotel Mexico City
rooms in its project portfolio,
markets, Saudi Arabia tops the list
Insurgentes will be located in front
according to our researchers. We
with eight ongoing projects and
of the World Trade Center of Mexico
tell you when and where these new
3,847 rooms. China and Germany
City, one of the most important
establishments will be launched.
follow with four hotels each and
business centers in the country.
Novotel hotel openings per year
1,635 and 722 rooms respectively.
The 106-room hotel will feature a
In total, 28 launches with 5,534
New Novotel properties to highlight
signature GourmetBar and Meet N
rooms are planned for 2021, of which
First, Novotel Riyadh Olaya will
Work space, which promises to be
six are already in the pre-opening
feature 215 cozy rooms designed
ideal for work and remote meetings.
phase.
by PLUStudios and will offer
The opening date was set for the
Another eleven openings with 2,596
meeting spaces, a fitness center,
second quarter of 2021.
rooms are planned for 2022, while
wellness facilities and a swimming
only four are currently in plans for
pool with sun terrace. Guests will
2023. By 2024 and beyond, another
be able to enjoy the gastronomic
Courtesy of TOPHOTELNEWS
27 are already underway. 68
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TO U R I S M
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MARTINA Kasnyik:
Albania - Love at First Sight. Stay the Way You Are! BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
A
fter serving for 6 years as Economic and Trade Attaché, the Hungarian diplomat, Martina Kasnyik bid farewell to Albania last December. In an exclusive interview with TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE, she
makes a wrap-up of her work and life in Albania which made her a Happy Mom as well. “I am actually very proud that I was involved or I realized some projects in the last years. First, I am glad that Wizz Air not only re-launched the BudapestTirana direct flight in 2017 but in 2020 they opened a base there too. The second result is OTP Bank entering into the Albanian financial market in 2019,” Kasnyik said. According to her, Hungarian companies, especially those operating in the water management, agriculture and renewable energy sectors, have identified Albania as a target country. “At this point I would like to highlight the stable and constructive cooperation between Budapest Waterworks Plc. and Tirana Water Utility. The renewed Memorandum of Understanding shows a strong commitment to implement further projects based on common interests and values,” she said.
“At this point I would like to highlight the stable and constructive cooperation between Budapest Waterworks Plc. and Tirana Water Utility” 70
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D I P L O M AC Y
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After the current pandemic
in Montenegro. There were ongoing
for business too.
are, how hard they work to maintain
situation, she underlines, Hungarian
projects but a push to enhance trust
I am glad I had a chance to organize
traditions. I love that all business
businesses will be looking for closer
in Hungarian companies to open
forums, business meetings,
meetings begin with a coffee and all
markets like Albania. “I believe
business relations with Albania and
conferences and study trips for
deals end with a coffee or a raki.
sectors such as food, industry,
strengthen economic ties between
companies. It was a great asset to
Sure, traffic is shocking sometimes
agriculture, water management
our countries was beneficial.
gain a place and stabilize Hungary in
but it is part of the special
the market.
atmosphere that you have to get
and energy will be in focus and
used to.
when air borders will be opened
Establishing a trade and economic
again, Wizz Air might become a
attaché position at the Embassy of
What impressed you most in
strong market factor. I also see the
Hungary in Tirana was crucial. It was
our country? Can you share any
In your view, how would you
Hungarian companies, which have an
a challenge to research the market,
stories?
define the economic relations
extensive network and experience
to position Hungarian products
Hard to answer. My very first visit
between the two countries
in EU integration process, as a great
and services and to find and create
to Albania was back in 2012 when I
and what is needed to develop
opportunity for market penetration.”
a network of contacts in both the
worked for the Hungarian Investment
further?
private and public sectors. As a
and Trade Agency. I remember it
The coronavirus has caused a
newly appointed diplomat, you need
was May, unbelievably hot. Parking
worldwide crisis like no other,
some time to get familiar with the
was allowed at Nena Tereza square
shutting shops and schools, closing
How would you describe the years
host country’s political and economic
and Rruga Elbassanit was under
borders and putting a significant
you worked and lived in Albania
developments, both at a national
construction.
part of the population under some
and in what ways do you think you
and regional level. You need to focus
influenced them the most?
on three to five strategic projects,
When I came back after 2012 I was
I was appointed as trade and
build up a core list of products and
shocked by how much the country
commercial attaché at the Embassy
companies and continue lobbying.
had developed. Although we’ve
of Hungary in Tirana in 2015.
The importance of good personal
been living here for almost six years,
Before arriving in Albania, trade
relations for achieving effective
I am still discovering new things on
and economic related issues were
partnerships cannot be over-
a daily basis.
covered at a regional level, centered
emphasized. During my work I had
“It was a challenge to research the market”
to be creative and able to cultivate
What probably amazes me the
the demand for certain products and
most is the Albanian mentality, how
services, which needs some sense
friendly they are, how helpful they
FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
form of lockdown since the spring
Government launched new aid
Two key players are present in
Hungary and which sectors will be
of 2020. It is very hard to develop
schemes, assisting Hungarian
Albania, OTP Bank and Wizz
more successful?
economic relations under these
companies to recover and to open
Air. Both play a major role in
I think political and economic
circumstances since each country
new doors in foreign markets. The
strengthening the bilateral economic relations will remain good or be even
is facing problems at a domestic
Foreign Market Growth Incentive
cooperation and in accessing new
level. In the case of Albania, it was
as well as the grants for project
business opportunities for Hungarian situation, Hungarian businesses will
actually a double shock with the
preparation and capacity building
companies.
devastating earthquake that also hit
activities launched through the
the country on November 26, 2019.
Western Balkans Green Center Non-
Can you mention any highlights of
food, industry, agriculture, water
profit Llc. to serve the objectives
your career in Albania?
management and energy will be
After the earthquake, in February
of the Hungarian Government and
I am actually very proud that I was
in focus and when air borders will
2020, Hungary donated 250.000
assist companies in overcoming
involved or I realized some projects
be opened again, Wizz Air might
euros to Albania’s Catholic Church
financial difficulties.
in the last years. First, I am glad
become a strong market factor. It
that Wizz Air not only re-launched
can definitely contribute toward
to support the reconstruction
closer. After the current pandemic be looking for closer markets like Albania. I believe sectors such as
of churches damaged in the
Hungarian companies, especially
the Budapest-Tirana direct flight
economic growth and create new
catastrophe. In April 2020, Hungary
those operating in the water
in 2017 but in 2020 they opened a
workplaces in Albania. The operators
donated 100,000 masks and 5,000
management, agriculture and
base there too. The second result
in the tourism sector cannot miss the
medical protective suits to Albania
renewable energy sectors, have
is OTP Bank entering into the
chance to take advantage of those
to help the country’s efforts against
identified Albania as a target
Albanian financial market in 2019. I
25 destinations that Wizz Air offers
coronavirus.
country. At this point I would like to
would also like to mention the water
for passengers travelling from/to
highlight the stable and constructive
management sector and the fruitful
Albania.
In response to the global
cooperation between Budapest
cooperation of the water utility
economic downturn the Hungarian
Waterworks Plc. and Tirana Water
companies of Albania and Hungary.
“I would like to highlight the stable and constructive cooperation between Budapest Waterworks Plc.”
Utility. The renewed Memorandum
Also, the revitalized collaboration
of Understanding shows a strong
of the Municipality of Budapest and
commitment to implement further
Tirana provides great opportunities
projects based on common interests
in the field of culture and education.
and values. How do you predict the future relations between Albania and
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D I P L O M AC Y
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The other sector I would like to
What will you miss from Albania
highlight is the consultancy and
most and what is your message
advisory work. Hungary welcomed
for the Albanians at the end of
the start of Albania’s accession
your mission?
talks to the European Union, and
I think after so many years I will
expressed its interest to play an
miss everyone and everything. Of
active role in this achievement.
course seaside, seafood, weather
The Hungarian companies have an
are generally at the top of the list,
extensive network and experience
but friendships even more. You know
in EU integration process. I see this
as a diplomat, you either fall in love
segment as a great opportunity for
with this country or you relocate.
market penetration.
No doubt, for me it was love at first
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
sight. There is no message, stay the During your life in Albania, you
way you are! One thing I have learnt
became a mother also. How do
here is yesterday is history, tomorrow
you remember this moment and
is mystery, today is a gift!
how are you enjoying it?
Kasnyik: “The birth of my daughter was the most wonderful moment in my life.”
The birth of my daughter was the most wonderful moment in my life. She is almost three years old now, speaks three languages, including Albanian. I believe she will remember these years, maybe not everything, but the most important people, like her nanny and kindergarten teachers she will never forget. At the same time, I think she will be proud to say, I was born in Tirana.
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Making Golf More Relevant: A Case Study BY STEPHEN RIDGWAY
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
membership was dwindling and the
‘Sportshub MK’. The intention of the
club lost money annually.
development is to create a vibrant,
Following a comprehensive
contemporary and desirable facility
consultation process with the
for the local community, city and
council, golf club members and local
wider region.
interest groups, RGD and Evolve
The golfing component of Sportshub
Group composed an innovative and
MK, designed by RGD, consists of a stimulating and attractive 9-hole course weaving through areas of new grassland, woodland and water features. It is designed for the average golfer but with enough challenge to keep the better golfer entertained. There is also a 9-hole short course to encourage beginners to ‘get to grips’ with the game. There are fewer tough hazards like bunkers, water or trees but there will be more undulation on the
I
n 2017, Ridgway Golf Design
UK. The area of the golf course was
Ltd (RGD) were approached
just under 50 hectares and located
sustainable masterplan for
by a developer (Evolve Group)
in a predominantly residential
a golf-centric, multi-sport
who were looking to re-
area to the south west of the city.
and leisure facility with a
purpose an existing 18-hole
The golf course was owned and
residential component
golf course in Milton Keynes,
operated by the local council but its
on the site known as
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Several national and regional sporting bodies have also agreed to relocate their primary facilities and headquarters to the site. A zerocarbon housing development will compliment and partially fund the rest of the project.
greens
From an environmental standpoint,
and fairways to provide
the proposed water features
interest and facilitate practice from
will be designed to manage and
different lies.
store all the water falling on the
There will also be a state-of-the-
development site including all
art practice range, simulators and
buildings, hard surfaces and the
short game academy aimed at
driving range for reuse either for
attracting non-golfers and families
irrigation or within the buildings
demonstrating that golf is a ‘sport
themselves. They will also provide
for all’.
new habitats for wildlife, improving the site’s biodiversity and making
The entire golfing element of
it a natural haven within a
the development has great
predominantly built-up area. The
sustainability credentials. The
latest renewable energy technology
facility will provide an opportunity
and energy efficiency measures will
for the entire demographic to try
also be employed.
their hand at the game of golf as well as retaining a challenging golf
The whole development will create
course for those who take their
hundreds of new job opportunities
game a bit more seriously.
for the local area and provide a focus for people to meet, eat and
Beyond the golf course lies a new,
enjoy themselves in a vital oasis
signature hotel and spa, coffee
within the city.
shop, health centre and soft play. 80
ARTEG, A SYMBOL OF HIGH QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE HOMEWARE PRODUCTS BY RUDINA HOXHA
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
A
RTEG IS A LEADING ALBANIAN RETAIL HOMEWARE COMPANY WITH STORES IN ALBANIA AND KOSOVO WHOSE FOCUS IS THE HOME AND HOW TO MAKE IT A BETTER PLACE WITH ALL THE KITCHEN SUPPLIES IT PROVIDES. “MAKING YOUR HOME A BETTER PLACE” IS THE MOTTO OF THIS COMPANY, CREATED SINCE 1998 IN VLORA FIRST TO CONTINUE WITH TIRANA AND PRISHTINA, AND THIS IS ACHIEVED BY DELIVERING HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS COMBINED WITH AN AFFORDABLE PRICE. FLAMUR ZENELAJ, ABM & CO-FOUNDER OF ARTEG SHARES WITH TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE ALL ABOUT THE MISSION, THE VISION AND THE PRODUCTS OF ARTEG.
Full interview below: Please can you tell us more about Arteg and its key to success achieved in 20 years? What started as a desire to achieve success in our dream was transformed into the key of success throughout the years Arteg kept growing. The persistence to transform a simple shop or a family busines which could assure you better living conditions into an original company to reach every house with our products brought the change to our mentality and vision for the future. Often it happens that a company forgets its
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H O M E WA R E
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own history how it came into being,
Italian and French products has
assets of Arteg. Can you mention
and the continuity of the production
how it grew and what it would be
been a proper decision as these
some of them? What are the
of the same quality.
its vision as being focused on the
countries have a focus even towards
brands that make Arteg stands
This market has many well-known
constant increase of revenues but
the countries where the market is
out among its competitors?
names but in the end, they simply
our challenge was to develop the
not of a special importance. Also
If we would evaluate a company with
remain names for which the
business making it a success.
the cooperation with some of the
the aim to buy it, of course after
conspicuous names in this sector
examining the financial analyses,
What about the products? How
has undoubtedly influenced on the
we would significantly focus on the
did you manage to bring so many
skeptic brands by giving us the
profile of clients and suppliers as
well-known brands in your shops?
possibility to be supplied by them.
they both give assurances for the success of every company. One
In fact, Arteg numbers 17.000 products which yearly are sufficiently
What has been the credit of
thing is to have a good product
added by replacing or reviewing
restaurants and bars in the success
and completely something else to
their range constantly. Albania is
of arteg?
have the proper product of a good
a small and insignificant market
In fact, we have not been fully
quality and affordable price for the
for many developed countries but
focused on HORECA sector in our
customers. This is the main filter
the decision to be focused on the
beginnings by having the house as
followed by us before we start out a
our main objective. But gradually, as
cooperation.
we were finding other possibilities
Say, you need a pressure pot for
and a growing interest by this sector
your house. Of course you would
due to the investments, HORECA
not go for a product, which in the
was transformed into an important
best case of not functioning well,
consumer is not directly interested
segment in our business. Now in our
would cause problems, so you need
but constantly believes in our choice
database, the HORECA category
to wash the whole kitchen or the
to offer the proper product with a
takes the third place with respect of
cooking area only. That’s why we
better quality and affordable for the
numbers and importance.
have decided to be supplied by a
consumers.
producer which guarantees quality, Let’s talk a bit about your main
gives satisfaction to the cooking
partners. You have stated that
ladies and offers an affordable price
How many Arteg shops are
the partners are one of the most
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
in Albania? What about in the
approach with priority in order to
every product is guaranteed and
neighboring countries? Do you
develop the business and serve to the
supplied by us constantly. For us,
find the same products and brands
consumers of Vlora directly and not
this is a task to be carefully studied
in the neighboring countries
through our partners or re-sellers.
in the future because even the
like in Albania or do they differ
Besides Vlora, Tirana and Prishtina,
hotels’ market does not yet give any
according to the markets?
Arteg does not operate in other
signals that the number of five star
Arteg numbers 7 shops in Albania
countries directly or indirectly
hotels will be considered in Albania
and Kosovo and we try to make
though efforts have often been done.
in the next five years though I wish
them different from one another
But we have not seen convincing
with all my heart we are wrong in our
and addressing certain targets as a
results to be developed in the
assessment because our country has
constant potential client. Of them,
neigbouring countries. Of course,
the potential and the need for such
only the shop in Vlora city makes an
similar companies with Arteg operate
exception. It resembles to our shop
in these countries; moreover some
in Tirana and this is so because of
operate locally in the countries
the only reason that the origin and
they are created and they have not
the idea of the company came from
expanded their activity in other
Vlora. We have always seen this
countries.
ready to present ourselves to such
a change.
a hotel with a full package where
With the presence of more 5 star hotels in Albania in a near future, is Arteg ready to supply these hotels with articles and products which these internationally well-known brands look for? This is a challenge in itself because to supply a five star hotel, you need to have minimum the same number of stars or more in the way you build the business which will supply a similar hotel. I can say that we are ready with some products but we are not yet 86
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A New Era in Tourism, A New Edition of HOTCO, A New Platform for Albania BY LÁSZLÓ BENE*
I
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
nternational
the region’s hotel investors and
tourism is
operators to reopen and rebuild
currently in
their businesses. HOTCO has always
uncharted waters,
attracted 300 to 400 attendees
as the economic
from more than 30 countries with
impact of the
50 speakers from four continents.
global pandemic
Even in these extraordinary times,
of 2020 is still
we believe in taking advantage of
considerable in
every opportunity that presents
most countries
itself, therefore HOTCO 2021 will
across the globe. Even whilst
be the first hybrid edition. Although
fighting through the constantly re-
personal contact and networking are
occurring waves of lockdowns and
two of the most important pillars of
restrictions, 2021 is the time to
the event, we would like to extend
think about the future and recovery
the possibility of participating - and
planning. Furthermore, the pause in
therefore contributing to the bright
global tourism represents a chance
future of the hotel industry, whilst
to reassess priorities and principles
possibly securing new businesses –
and focus on creating the “new-era”
for a wider audience who will join us
of tourism, that will likely depend on
online.
sustainable solutions and personal experiences. The most significant hotel investment platform of the CEE, SEE & Caucasus regions, HOTCO, is back for the fifth consecutive year, to create a platform for the key stakeholders of the hotel industry who will contribute to helping
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Turning our attention to Albania,
term growth and competitiveness.
permits in 2018. As a consequence
78% increase when compared to
we can conclude that the tourism
Given the increasing tax incentives
of this growing tourism potential,
2014. The above results speak for
industry - with 8.5% contribution to
and the considerable increase in
there are more than 33,000 hotel
themselves and provide a solid
total GDP in 2018, while planning
international tourist arrivals, the
rooms available in Albania today.
foundation. Now it is time to
to reach 9.3% by 2028 – emerged
construction sector started to turn
International arrivals increased
showcase these achievements on the
as a substantial contributor to
an eye towards the hospitality
dramatically as well in recent years
right platform in 2021.
Albania’s economy. Needless to
sector. Compared to 2016, 5 times
and reached more than 6 million
say, that the strategic position of
more hotel building permits have
in 2019, which is a remarkable
the sector is expected to be a key
been issued in Albania in 2017,
factor in Albania’s sustainable long-
which was followed by a further 22
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* Consultant at Horwath HTL Hungary
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AgroTimeAL,
the Guide of Albanian Agrotourism! BY FABJOLA ARAPI*
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A
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
lbania - the
Driven by the need to “escape”
experiences virtually.
time. The AgroTimeAL app, a
country with a
and by the lack of information
AgroTimeAL is your loyal guide
practical guide which directs you
blessed land,
about such farms, the idea came
which, depending on your location,
to agrotourism and to your favorite
with around
up to create a website platform
will list the farms near you, create
farm!
300 sunny
- agroturizem.gov.al which would
a list with your favourites and allow
I invite you to download
days per year
later be transformed into the
you to quickly and simply organise
AgroTimeAL!
and where
application AgroTimeAL. This
your weekend.
the majority of the population lives
platform was conceived to serve
Being connected with the roots of
*Advisor at Ministry of Agriculture
on the income from agriculture. A
as the first step for promoting the
your land and being fed by them
and Rural Development, LEAD
country with extraordinary natural
agrotourism network in Albania
fosters traditions, tastes and an
Albania
potential.
under the umbrella of the concept
authentic experience. The Albanian
of networking among each other.
farmers have created a new standard for the development of rural
We live in the era of globalisation. Most of us would like to leave the
This guide offers detailed
areas by diversifying their farming
bustling life of the city behind,
information for 260 farms and
activities and by opening the doors
turn the mobile off and spend days
local products providing a virtual
to visitors and thus removing the
without being in contact with the
experience before planning a visit to
borders between the rural and the
noisy world. To live simply like once
a farm. AgroTimeAL is an excellent
urban and giving meaning to the
upon a time, in peace with the sun,
opportunity for the promotion of the
expression “Time for Agrotourism”!
land, water, organic food and virgin
farm, organic products, authentic
This project has been supported
land.
recipes and the entire experience
financially by the German
This might be one of the reasons
which the villages provide.
Government and implemented by
why agrotourism has gained
In this app, you will find the column
GIZ, SRD under the care of MARD
popularity over the last few years.
“The roads of Taste”which offers
(Ministry of Agriculture and Rural
Visiting agrotouristic farms has
users the experience of an Olive
Development.)
been turned into a trend to find
Tour, a Wine Tour, a Shepherd Tour,
Thanks to this support, the country
relaxation, and to enjoy, educate
a Fisheries & Aquaculture Tour and
now has an innovative product
and consume organic products taken
a Citrus Orchard Tour. Through
which can be uploaded on our
straight from the land on to the
images and information, you will
smartphones, something we have
table.
have the opportunity to enjoy these
surely been missing for a long
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HOTEL REVENUE MANAGEMENT RESOURCES BY AHMED MAHMOUD*
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
R
evenue management
routine. Every employee wants
refers to the
to be part of a company’s growth
strategic distribution
agenda, but most don’t know
and pricing tactics a
how. Hotel management needs to
hotel uses to sell its
provide them with both information
rooms which is perishable inventory
and tools, starting with making
to the right guests at the right time
revenue growth an inherent part of
to boost revenue growth.
daily conversations, meetings, and
Revenue management is an
presentations.
extremely important concept within
In the area of revenue streams and
the hospitality industry because it
new revenue resources, the sky is
allows hotel owners to anticipate
the limit for creative minds. Hotels
demand and optimize availability
should really aim to maximize
and pricing in order to achieve the
revenue from every imaginable
best possible financial results.
source as long as the core offer stays
Revenue growth and exploring new
competitive and of good value to
revenue resources is the aim for
each guest with high profit ROI for
every hotelier and it is everyone’s
the hotel management.
business, so why can’t we make
*Founder of revenueyourhotel.com
it part of everyone’s daily work
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
BUTTER CHICKEN
Two Recipes,
INGREDIENTS Tandoori chicken 1/ 2 with bone 350 grm
Not to be Missed from Ajay Markan
A
jay Markan, an Indian hospitality veteran of more than three decades of rich national and
international
experience,
chose
TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE to share two special recipes from his own country. Markan, a Corporate Chef at Cygnet Hotels
tomatoes 800 grm ginger 30 grm garlic 30 grm Cashewnuts 30 grm Fresh cream 100 ml red chili powder 5 grm White butter unsalted butter 150 grm salt T T cinnamon stick 10 grm bayleaf 2 no peppercorn 10 grm green cardamon 3 no black cardamon 2 no Kasoori Methi / Fenugreek leaf dry 5 grm chooped corinder 20 grm ginger jullieane 20 grm sugar 10 grm %
and Resorts in India, underlines that in India, the taste of the cuisine changes after every 100 kms, “so there is so much to learn which keeps my passion for food alive.”
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JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
PREPARATION
JP TRAIBLAZING MAGAZINE
BROCCOLI MALAI INGREDIENTS
For Chicken:
Marinate the curry cut chicken with salt ginger garlic paste red chilli powder & lemon juice keep for 6 hour and roast it in oven than add in makhani gravy .
For Gravy: -Heat the pot add the whole spices
Blanched Broccoli 250 grm fresh cream 30 ml Processed Cheddar Cheese 50 grm green chilli 10 grm corn flour 15 grm salt 10 grm lemon juice 15 ml Ginger garlic paste 15 grm
PREPARATION
with little oil , with ginger garlic
green chilli and fresh tomato cooked well with little water , make it
Marinated the Blanched Broccoli with ginger garlic and salt keep for
Puree than tomatoes and pass through a sieve to make a smooth paste .
30 min .mix the cheese with fresh cream make smooth paste mix the
Heat oil & butter and fry the garlic ginger paste till oil leaves the paste.Add
chopped chilli . Sprinkle the cornflour on brocoli and marinate with
the red chilli powdre & salt and Stir it for approx 5 minutes.Add tomato
cream mix and keep for 1 hour than cooked in tandoor or BBQ grill /
puree made by you bring to the boil and add cahewnut paste mix well than add the frozen butter stir it till butter is not mix in gravy once sauce pouring
oven and serve hot .
consistency Now add the fresh cream and chicken adjust seasoning.if gravy is sour due to tomatoes add the sugar sprinkle fenugreek leaf crush and garniesh with corinder and ginger .
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An Original Model for Albania Un Modello Originale per l’Albania Albergo Diffuso is a widespread and sustainable model of hospitality, particularly suitable for developing tourism in small towns. Could it also be a proposal for Albania? We talk about it with the creator of this model, Giancarlo Dall’Ara. L’Albergo Diffuso è un modello di ospitalità diffusa e sostenibile, particolarmente adatto per sviluppare il turismo nei piccoli centri. Può essere una proposta anche per l’Albania? Ne parliamo con l’ideatore di questo modello, Giancarlo Dall’Ara.
How can you explain in your own
Come puoi spiegare con parole
words the term “Albergo Diffuso”
tue il termine “Albergo Diffuso” e
and how this term can be applied
come questo termine può essere
in Albania?
applicato in Albania?
A widespread hotel is a hotel that
Un albergo diffuso è un albergo
cannot be seen because it does not
che non si vede perché non crea
create an environmental impact; a
impatto ambientale; un albergo
hotel that is not built, but that is
che non si costruisce, ma che nasce
born by networking between them
mettendo in rete tra loro delle
uninhabited houses, typical or at
case disabitate, tipiche o almeno
least with a local flavor, very close
di sapore locale, molto vicine tra
to each other, and within a country,
di loro, e all’interno di un paese,
a hamlet. Those who manage the
di un borgo. Chi gestisce l’albergo
widespread hotel undertake to offer
diffuso si impegna ad offrire tutti i
all hotel services to guests (from
servizi alberghieri agli ospiti (dalla
small breakfasts, to assistance,
piccola colazione, all’assistenza,
to common areas where tourists
agli spazi comuni dove i turisti si
can meet ...). I believe that both
possono incontrare…). Io credo
the term “widespread hotel” and
che sia il termine “albergo diffuso”
the concept can be adopted in
che il concetto, possano essere
Albania. Currently in Albania the
adottati in Albania. Attualmente
term “hotel” is used, which is an
in Albania si usa ad esempio il
English word, and I do not see why
termine “hotel” che è una parola
the Italian term “albergo diffuso”
inglese, e non vedo perché il
cannot also be used. As for the
termine italiano “albergo diffuso”
concept, it seems to me very
non possa anch’esso essere usato.
suitable for Albania which, at least in
Quanto al concetto, mi pare molto
my eyes, despite all its specificities,
adatto all’Albania che, almeno ai
does not seem too different from an
miei occhi, pur con tutte le sue
Italian region.
specificità, non sembra troppo diversa da una regione italiana.
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ALBERGO DIFFUSO:
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Sulla base del tuo viaggio in
could be concretely launched, the
non solo dal punto di vista turistico.
parts of Albania, which are the
diverse parti dell’Albania, quali
idea of the Albergo Diffuso would
L’interesse è sempre stato altissimo.
most appropriate regions to apply
sono le regioni più appropriate
“spread” in much of Albania,
Credo pertanto che se si potessero
the concept of Albergo Diffuso?
per applicare il concetto di
because it is sustainable, it is
avviare concretamente una o due
Last year, thanks to RisiAlbania and
Albergo Diffuso?
consistent with the Albanian culture
realtà, l’idea dell’Albergo Diffuso
also to Professor Brunilda Liçai, I
Lo scorso anno, grazie RisiAlbania
of hospitality, it would allow to bring
si “diffonderebbe” in gran parte
came three times to Albania and
e anche alla professoressa Brunilda
forms of tourism different from
dell’Albania, perché è sostenibile, è
mainly saw the inland areas. I have
Liçai, sono venuto tre volte in
the traditional ones in territories
coerente con la cultura di ospitalità
visited about fifteen countries, some
Albania e ho visto prevalentemente
currently rich in potential not yet
albanese, permetterebbe di portare
of which are very small. And even
le aree interne. Ho visitato una
expressed, and would be a driving
forme di turismo diverse da quelle
if not everyone had the minimum
quindicina di paesi, alcuni dei
force for development for the local
tradizionali in territori al momento
standards for a form of hospitality
quali molto piccoli. E anche se non
economy.
ricchi di potenzialità non ancora
similar to the widespread hotel, I
tutti avevano gli standard minimi
found interest everywhere. I have
per una forma di ospitalità simile
What difference will the Albergo
spoken both with owners of unused
all’albergo diffuso, ho trovato
Diffuso make on Albanian tourism?
houses, with administrators, with
interesse ovunque. Ho parlato
Can it save places?
Che differenza farà l’Albergo
young people looking for a job in
sia con proprietari di case non
The development of the multi-
Diffuso sul turismo albanese? Può
tourism, with organizations that deal
utilizzate, con Amministratori, con
building hotel in Albania would
salvare luoghi?
with tourism and services. In Tirana
giovani in cerca di una occupazione
have several positive effects.
Lo sviluppo dell’albergo diffuso
I met associations, entrepreneurs,
nel turismo, con organizzazioni
The first would be to further
in Albania avrebbe diversi effetti
I met the Minister of Tourism Bledi
che si occupano di turismo e di
diversify the Albanian tourist offer,
positivi. Il primo sarebbe quello
Klosi and the Minister of Culture
servizi. A Tirana ho incontrato
expanding and enriching the range
di diversificare ulteriormente
Elva Margariti, National Coordinator
associazioni, imprenditori, ho
of accommodation options for
l’offerta turistica albanese,
also for the 100 villages project in
incontrato il ministro del Turismo
tourists. The second would be to
ampliando e arricchendo la gamma
Albania, I spoke to organizations
Bledi Klosi e il ministro della
contain the depopulation of the
di proposte di soggiorno per i
interested in the development of
Cultura Elva Margariti, Coordinatore
villages by offering an alternative
turisti. La seconda sarebbe quella
tourism and territories not only from
nazionale anche per il progetto di
job in particular to young people,
di contenere lo spopolamento dei
tourist point of view. Interest has
100 villaggi in Albania, ho parlato
who otherwise are forced to go and
borghi offrendo una alternativa di
always been very high. I therefore
organizzazioni interessate allo
live elsewhere. The third would be
lavoro in particolare ai giovani, che
believe that if one or two realities
sviluppo del turismo e dei territori
to start examples of recovery of
altrimenti sono spinti ad andare ad
Based on your trip in different
espresse, e sarebbe un volano di sviluppo per l’economia locale.
abitare altrove. La terza sarebbe 104
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quella di avviare esempi di recupero
beautiful houses that risk being
delle abitazioni albanesi, di riutilizzo
abandoned or renovated, losing
di alcune belle case che rischiano
their charm together with the typical
di essere abbandonate o di venire
aspects of the past. Furthermore, if
ristrutturate perdendo assieme
we look at the successful examples
agli aspetti tipici del passato,
of widespread hotels in Italy, also in
anche il loro fascino. Inoltre se
Albania there could be widespread
guardiamo gli esempi di successo
hotels that work and remain open all year round, that is, extending the tourist seasonality
“The development of the multi-building hotel in Albania would have several positive effects”
a village.
La nascita di un AD rappresenta dunque al tempo stesso la nascita di
How can you encourage the
una impresa ospitale e l’avvio di un
Albergo Diffuso trend in Albania
percorso di sviluppo sostenibile di
too? How do you see this trend in
un borgo.
the region? I would like to organize or at least
Come puoi incoraggiare il trend
participate in a national event
degli alberghi
dell’Albergo Diffuso anche in
dedicated to this theme, to make
diffusi in Italia,
Albania? Come vede questa
it known more and launch it as
anche in Albania
tendenza nella regione?
it deserves. Everything seemed
si potrebbero
Mi piacerebbe organizzare o almeno
ready before Covid, now it’s about
avere degli
partecipare ad un evento nazionale
waiting for the best time and seeing
dedicato a questo tema, per farlo
even in villages far from traditional
alberghi diffusi che lavorano e
which ones they can be interested
destinations. This happens because
restano aperti tutto l’anno, che
conoscere di più e lanciarlo come
parties to help us organize it. The
the demand for this type of tourism
ampliano cioè la stagionalità
merita. Tutto sembrava pronto
conference should also be an
is not linked to the summer season,
turistica anche nei borghi lontani
prima del Covid, ora si tratta di
opportunity to meet and talk to
because it is not in search of the sun,
dalle mete tradizionali. Questo
aspettare il momento migliore e
the many private operators and
but of authenticity; and authenticity
accade perché la domanda di
di vedere quali possono essere i
municipalities who have shown
can be found in any season of
questo tipo di turismo non è
soggetti interessati ad aiutarci ad
interest in this model of tourism
the year. Finally, I underline that
legata alla stagione estiva, perché
organizzarlo. Il convegno dovrebbe
development, and that in some way
a diffused hotel project does not
non è alla ricerca del sole, ma
anche essere l’occasione per
they tried to start it.
only concern the construction of a
dell’autenticità; e l’autenticità si
conoscere e parlare con i tanti
horizontal hotel, but represents the
può trovare in qualsiasi stagione
start of a “network” development:
dell’anno. Infine sottolineo che un
houses, local products, shops,
progetto di albergo diffuso non
museums are networked ... The birth
riguarda solo la costruzione di un
of an CEO therefore represents
hotel orizzontale, ma rappresenta
at the same time the birth of a
l’avvio di uno sviluppo “a rete”: si
hospitable company and the start of
mettono in rete le case, i prodotti
a sustainable development path for
del territorio, il negozi, i musei…
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operatori privati e le municipalità che hanno dimostrato interesse a questo modello di sviluppo turistico, e che in qualche modo hanno tentato di avviarlo. TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE sat with Mr. Dall’Ara on September 17, 2020 and took this interview. 107
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Albanian homes, of reuse of some
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