Saint-Gobain's Buzz Staff Magazine by Lance Gunn

A NEWSLETTER FOR THE STAFF OF SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

SUMMER 2016

Making our mark all over Africa

IN THIS ISSUE: Mall of Africa • Update on collaboration platforms • Gyproc launches Habito • New Weber products • Our modern skyline logo

ED’S nOTE

A NEWSLETTER FOR THE STAFF

OF SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

SUMMER 2016

Making our mark all over Africa

As part of SaintGobain’s plan to strengthen operations in west Africa, a new Weber plant was opened in Ghana. Read more about it on page 23.

Editor: Therésa Lee Layout and design: Lance Gunn Design Writing & editing: Wordwright

whAT’S InSIDE Megamall built with Saint-Gobain products

From David’s desk

Collaboration • Saint-Gobain collaborates

• Affordable housing

• Working with customers

• Residential projects

8 9

Projects • Silo District

• Stand 47

• Bullfrog Pan

Products • Cast-iron pipes

• Habito

• Goodbye to mouldy grout

Africa Architecture Awards Our footprint in Sub-Saharan Africa Our new logo

21 22

Admixtures now made in Ghana

Marketing • Sound psychology

• Norton products sell themselves

• New houses without moving

If you can’t hear, you can’t learn

Saint-Gobain is a top employer

Blow the whistle

Compliance makes us competitive

Start your own business

Meet our Pride winners

CSI 32

• Hammanskraal school

• Schools for Africa

Around the world

2 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2015

ost of what I’ve learnt this year centres around the continent I’ve lived on all my life: w About 1 billion people live in Africa; this figure is set to double by 2050. w It is the continent with the population with the lowest average age: 45% of its people are between 0 and 14 years old. w Although it currently has a low rate of urbanisation overall, urbanisation is growing at 3,5% per year, the fastest urbanisation rate in the world. w Only 40% of its people live in cities, with high differences across countries. w 60% of its gross domestic product comes from South Africa, Nigeria and Angola; a further 20% from the other seven of its top 10 economies. Urbanisation is increasing the need for clean water, ample electricity, housing, education facilities, healthcare facilities and retail space. This is very exciting, because in all these areas, Saint-Gobain has solutions. Opportunities for growth are everywhere. As you read through this issue of Buzz, I hope you also learn a few new things. Take time to look at the detail of our presence in Sub-Saharan Africa (pages 17-20). Enjoy finding out about our breathtaking projects and exciting new products. We work for a company that operates in 67 countries around the world, with more than 170 000 employees. There is always something new to learn and be amazed by. You will never be bored if you work for Saint-Gobain! w Therésa

Please let me have your feedback and suggestions by emailing Talk2us@saint-gobain.com or sending them to Saint-Gobain, Corporate Communication, PO Box 50416, Randjesfontein 1683.

16 17-20

The living space market

• Helping kids skate to success

Albert Einstein said, “A day without learning is a day wasted. There is so much to learn and so little time to learn it.”

on IN THIS ISSUE: Mall of Africa • Update launches Habito collaboration platforms • Gyproc skyline logo • New Weber products • Our modern

Customers told us how they see us

what I’ve learnt

hOT OF ThE PRESS! In 2017 the Saint-Gobain Managerial Competencies will change to the Saint-Gobain Attitudes. It is the ambition of Human Resources to anticipate the needs of the Group and to support the business strategy. The company has to adapt to an increasingly global, digital world. Mobility, diversity and training are success factors that require new forms of commitment to attract and develop talented employees. After much consultation and research, the new SaintGobain Attitudes have been launched. Watch out for more information in The Bridge and eBuzz. Discussion sessions and training meetings will also be scheduled in 2017.

PROJECTS

Megamall built with Saint-Gobain products In April this year, South Africa’s largest shopping mall, halfway between Johannesburg and Pretoria, opened its doors.

he Mall of Africa combines the latest international trends, with a core focus on the use of environmentally sustainable materials and technology. Spanning over 131 000 m2, five SaintGobain businesses provided products towards this retail giant: Ecophon, Gyproc, Isover, Weber and Saint-Gobain Glass. This is the largest Weber ETICS system project in South Africa to date. It was specified for use by the project’s architects and engineers based on its ability to reduce thermal losses while keeping ambient temperatures comfortable throughout the year. ETICS also significantly contributed to saving the planet by using no water on site. Isover’s expanded polystyrene is part of the ETICS system. In addition Weber provided more than 100,000 m2 of tile fixing products that enhances indoor air quality while recycling fly-ash that could otherwise have landed on a dump. Finest shopper experience From indoor air quality to visual and acoustic comfort, Saint-Gobain solutions contribute to optimise the shopper experience in the Mall of Africa. SaintGobain Glass supplied 4 000 m2 of SGG Cool-Lite glazing for the roofing. Not only does this allow shoppers to benefit from natural light, it also blocks up to 72% of solar heat. Gyproc supplied an abundance of products to make this first-class shopping experience a reality, ranging from Rhinoboard and Gypwall FireStop, to Donn Ultra-Steel and Track, as well as bulkhead and flush-plastered ceilings. Ecophon’s acoustic ceiling panels were selected for two prime retail spaces. Isover supplied Factorylite, glasswool pipe insulation, Ductwrap and Cavitybatt. w SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 3

FROM DAVID’S DESK

A year in review We are already at the end of our first year as Saint-Gobain’s Delegation for this expansive continent!

s is always the case, there were highs and lows. The local and global economies have not been kind, and yet the opportunities for business in SubSaharan Africa abound. Our footprint across the continent has increased substantially from a focus on southern Africa in 2005 to a current presence in more than 20 countries. Despite all the political and economic challenges and the slowdown in the construction sector, Saint-Gobain SSA showed a profit in September for the first time in a long while. The last quarter of the year is traditionally our best one, so this year should end well. The trick will be to keep up the momentum in 2017, especially in the first quarter. We completed a customer survey this year (article on page 9) and it’s quite obvious that we do not have sufficient traction. Currently, we deliver on three of our customers’ most important needs – quality, price and technical expertise.

But when it comes to delivery, we are seriously lacking. This will be a major focus area in 2017. I’m very proud of the work that is being done on our collaboration platforms. This is a huge step in the right direction and we will see the benefits for many years to come. Thank you to each and every person who takes this seriously (updates on pages 5-8). Compliance or defiance? If there’s one thing I’ve learnt this year, it’s that people in Africa are not good at following the rules, in business and society. This will have to change if we expect continued investment from the Group. There are six essential business controls and we are lacking in most of them: 1. Sales 2. Inventory 3. Purchasing 4. Payroll 5. Finance and treasury 6. Accounts and fixed assets Whatever your role in the business, please take responsibility to ensure that you follow the prescribed processes to comply with our policies and procedures. Please get training, if necessary. Business performance All our South African businesses are performing well below the Group (minimum) target of 5% return on sales. Gyproc is doing better than before, but is not growing quickly enough. It’s good to see the improvements in their plants. Isover had a poor start to the year because of break-downs, but has broken all records during the second half of

2016. If they can take that and annualise it, they will win back market share. Market penetration is their biggest opportunity. Weber’s performance is not good enough and they need work in areas such as sales engagement, factory efficiencies, purchasing and freight costs to improve sharply in 2017. The good news is that they could break even next year if the team pulls all these issues together with commitment and urgency. Norton has had service issues, but, for the first time, they should make money next year. The newly appointed Business Unit Manager, Tommie Smit, certainly has his work cut out for him. PAM has done better this year and there are great opportunities for them in the market. Although they are dependent on big projects, they will grow quicker when they’re better established in distribution. During the past few months Besaans has embarked on a restructuring process to streamline the business according to current operational requirements. Looking ahead Our biggest aim is to meet budget. It’s a huge distraction every time we have to explain to Paris why we’re behind budget. We lose valuable time that could have been spent on business improvement. Two more challenges are to be innovative enough across the continent to grow the business, and to appoint more people with the necessary skills to help build our ‘capable organisation’. I have confidence that we can succeed at this. We certainly have the potential. I appreciate all employees who take their work seriously – the ones who go the extra mile, who support colleagues and customers alike. Together we will make 2017 a year for the record books. w

I’m very proud of the work that is being done on our collaboration platforms. This is a huge step in the right direction and we will see the benefits for many years to come. 4 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2016

COLLABORATION

In Sub-Saharan Africa, Saint-Gobain collaborates! Harnessing commonalities can make a company stronger, more competitive – even untouchable.

aint-Gobain can exploit commonalities in geographical areas, markets, segments, customers, suppliers, name and reputation. That is why, at the end of last year, the company started looking to create opportunities through collaborative platforms. Today, about 19 platforms work together to create profitable sales growth. “We have to share processes and expertise among each other,” says David Anderson, General Delegate. “Collaboration is about leveraging our strengths to grow our organisation faster, as well as focusing on growing each business unit. It is about embracing the spirit of both, rather than either, or.”

Platforms already in action Affordable housing Commercial Contractors – key accounts Customer experience Demand & Supply Digital & Marketing

Education Habitat forum Healthcare Hotels Infrastructure Innovation Internal Controls

Logistics (RTM) Residential Retail – key accounts Safety Specialist distributor – key accounts Strategic sourcing

Opportunities to find solutions He points out: “The collaboration platforms enable us to use our combined skills, knowledge and expertise. They provide opportunities for us to solve common challenges together for the benefit of the customer.” The platforms enable people from various functions and businesses to work together for a specific purpose. Participants rotate according to the needs of the project at hand, providing their specific skill sets and knowledge to meet a specific challenge. “The current platforms are not set in stone,” says David. “As the business evolves and we identify new challenges and opportunities, more platforms will be created. Anyone can contribute where their expertise is needed.” Being involved in a platform does not replace your regular job, but adds to your exposure and experience across the businesses. Read more about the successes the collaboration platforms have already achieved on the next few pages. w SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 5

COLLABORATION

Making affordable both comfortable and profitable The affordable housing segment offers Saint-Gobain Sub-Saharan Africa both a great market opportunity and a way to make a significant difference where it really matters.

he realisation that he had made a significant contribution to a changed life ignited a passion for affordable housing in Sibusiso Mthembu. Business Development Manager, Isover. Being part of the Affordable Housing collaboration platform has reignited his passion to make a significant contribution to the sector. “About ten years ago, when we handed an old lady the keys to her house, which we had been involved in building, I suddenly realised what a

huge difference owning a decent roof over your head can make. It changed how this family would go forward from generation to generation! I felt so privileged to be part of that!” So, although it has taken a lot of commitment for Sibusiso and his colleagues from all over Saint-Gobain to add collaboration platform duties to their day jobs, they feel it is more than worth it. “We are contributing to the dynamic shift in housing in South Africa, making

We are contributing to the dynamic shift in housing in South Africa.

a tangible contribution. Words of wisdom and gratitude from the granny changed my way of thinking. I now know that whatever we do in this sector, we are not just helping to build houses, we are creating homes!” Providing solutions Providing solutions that are systemsdriven, linked with skills development, is key to success in this sector. “We do this by providing systems that offer sustainable solutions and skills development linked to the SaintGobain academy.” he said. Since the government started implementing SANS10400-XA energy efficiency requirements, effective since April 2014, there has been a strong interest in energy efficient systems that are also affordable. Saint-Gobain’s tailor-made CombiPack solution has proven ideal for emerging contractors, as it is systems driven, offers a one-stop solution and meets the legislative requirements. The company has not only come up with the ideal solution and skills development, it has also invested in research, enterprise development, partnership and advocacy opportunities. Forging ahead Following the success of the CombiPack project, the Affordable Housing collaboration platform is looking ahead to the SMW project, for which one house was built in Soshanguve and two show houses are earmarked for North West. Following on from that, the team is also already tackling the Saint-Gobain Full Kit House project, for which a prototype should be concluded and costed by 2017. w

6 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2016

COLLABORATION

Working with customers smoothes the route to market IT and physical logistical support are the focus of the Route to Market (RTM) Support collaboration platform.

aving identified a cost benefit of R35 million in improving logistics efficiencies and reducing the complexity of how Saint-Gobain delivers stock to the market, the RTM Support Collaboration platform has gone into battle. Their enemy? Decentralised transport planning, poor service delivery, ineffective load building and high inventory holding. These bugbears are under attack from all sides, thanks to four projects in which the RTM Support collaboration platform is involved.

With the EDI system, orders are placed, executed and verified automatically, without human intervention.

Centralising TOPS A start has been made to centralised transport planning for Saint-Gobain, so that planning for the five Saint-Gobain companies serving the same customers will no longer be performed in isolation. Shared loads have become a reality because of this. Electronic PoD Another project is at proof of concept stage: Electronic proof of deliveries (E-POD). Heinrich Pretorius, Business Process Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa said: “Enabling customers to sign for deliveries electronically will reduce the turnaround time for proof of delivery from about 45 days, on average, to less than two days.” Electronic data interchange The E-POD system feeds into the system that is the focus of another project – electronic data interchange (EDI), which was launched in early October. “We are implementing direct integration into key customers’ ordering systems,” Heinrich explained. “We started with Chamberlains and will soon be moving on to Cashbuild,

The Route to Market collaboration platform team: Corné Rinaldi, Doné Britz, Marcella Mathews, Heinrich Pretorius, Waldo Viljoen, Tertia du Plooy and Mandy van der Merwe.

Massbuild and CPW.” With the EDI system, orders are placed, executed and verified automatically, without human intervention. “Our pilot was with Chamberlains, and it went well. It was exciting to receive our first orders generated simply by our customer pressing ‘submit’, via an electronic handshake into the Saint-Gobain system. These orders were processed in milliseconds!” The invoicing component of EDI will go live in November with Chamberlains. With customers responding immediately, invoices are loaded the same day to be paid, reducing risk and the accounts receivable book. “Customers also prefer settling accounts faster,” Heinrich pointed out.

“That way, they don’t hit a credit limit ceiling and have to delay placing new orders.” Optimal location Saint-Gobain is also investigating the optimal locations from which to serve customers. “It’s all a big learning curve for us and customers, but it’s been a long time coming and customers are keen to come on board,” said Heinrich. “A lot of what we are doing is just the first phase of moving into a digital world with our customers. We are looking to have a portal like Amazon.com or Takealot.com in future – something much more realtime and customer focused than we have now. Our customers will feel part of the business!” w SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 7

Collaboration

Collaboration is shaking up residential projects The Residential Collaboration Platform is building momentum.

ith most of the planning work done, the members of the Residential Collaboration Platform are looking forward to getting a lot accomplished in the year to come. “Being part of this collaboration platform has been great! I have gained a lot from being exposed to my colleagues’ skills and knowledge. This approach is sure to result in some innovative solutions. Together, we can take advantage of synergies in the market!” said Saint-Gobain Gyproc Hotel and Residential Sector Manager Michelle Cerruti. “Our group has worked together well to recognise habitat opportunities for Saint-Gobain. It’s all about being the face of Saint-Gobain rather than the face of our various sub-brands.” The group has created a high-level project plan, with assigned activities and responsibilities for the fourth quarter of this year, which group members are already hard at work on. “We are meeting soon to map out how to carry our momentum forward in the first quarter of next year,” said Michelle. She highlighted three habitat opportunities that are almost ready to give Saint-Gobain a marketing boost: Val de Vie, the Legend project, and KwaZulu-Natal coastal developments.

even more for the Saint-Gobain brand than Stand 47 at Monaghan Farm did. With 3 000 plot-and-plan properties in the pipeline, we hope to influence the specification of the houses and provide a model that other developers will look to for inspiration.” She summed up: “Stand 47 was about building a better home. At Val de Vie , we hope to show people the home of the future.”

Home of the future “At Val de Vie, we hope to be able to show people the first multi-comfort home in the southern hemisphere. We have signed a memorandum of understanding with the developer and our first project planning session was on 26 October,” said Michelle. “Val de Vie is one of the top three prestigious estates in South Africa, with its own brand equity and influence. We hope this house will do

Bushveld modernity On the Legend project, the collaboration platform is working with a developer, landowner and investor rolled into one, who is also a thought leader and an early adopter. His vertically integrated business, which includes a construction company, is developing a golf and safari resort in Limpopo, two-and-a-half hours north of Johannesburg. “We have a good chance of

8 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2016

success in providing solutions for these weekend homes. We plan to start by building two show units using SaintGobain products,” said Michelle. “Success see our products going into 400 more units, aimed at South Africa’s black diamond market, that will be built in several phases thereafter.” Coastal growth Thirdly, Michelle mentioned that Saint-Gobain has recognised the opportunities generated by the sale of large tracts of sugar cane land on the KwaZulu-Natal coast. “This land is being developed into big hubs and we are targeting several developers to get our solutions into that market,” she said. “These are just three of the ideas our collaboration platform is working on. We have more in the pipeline, thanks to the opportunity to pool our leads and ideas.” w

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Customers told us how they see us Now we know how to become a better business.

ll of Saint-Gobain Sub-Saharan Africa’s businesses performed above the norm compared with their competitors according to the recent benchmark survey conducted for business-to-business (B2B) manufacturing industry in Africa, but there is room to improve. The first of what will become an annual Saint-Gobain Sub-Saharan Africa-wide survey shows that customers see Saint-Gobain as the place to come for products of the right quality and price, but poor delivery is undermining this good reputation. Survey results showed that customers experience a lack of feedback, poor administration and poor execution on logistics service. With increased market competition, these failures by Saint-Gobain impact negatively on the company’s reputation and on customers’ competitiveness, helping Saint-Gobain’s competition to gain an advantage.. “This cannot be the way we carry on our business into the future. Customers need the right stuff from us, at the right price, at the right time,” said David Anderson, General Delegate and CEO, Sub-Saharan Africa “The survey shows that customers

want us to maintain our product quality and keep giving them the right advice, and also to keep offering them prices that keep them competitive. What they are unhappy about is that we are not as good as they would like us to be at getting what they need to them on time.” Fortunately, initiatives such as the e-POD (electronic proof of delivery) and EDI (electronic data integration) projects will both do a lot to improve this. You can read more about them in the story about the RTM (route to market) collaboration platform’s activities on page 7. Sound methodology Vishal Devan, Head, Supply Chain, said: “The survey comprised qualitative, in-depth interviews and quantitative measures, using a global professional survey company in order to give us a credible view of what our customers think about us.” He emphasised: “What also makes this survey so valuable is that we sampled the whole Saint-Gobain customer base. We have done research on individual brands before, but never before on all the business units across the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa.”

Things to do The survey pinpoints the top five factors to improve. Together, they will give Saint-Gobain the most significant improvement in customer satisfaction and loyalty: w Better handling of complaints and queries; w Confirmation of orders and regular progress updates; w Quick turnaround time (deliveries, stock availability); w Understanding of project needs and requirements (non-transactional); and w Accommodating last minute requests. Saint-Gobain Sub-Saharan Africa is building a customer strategy based on the results of the survey . It will, to a large extent, complement the existing product strategies and departmental initiatives. Its main purpose will be to add emphasis to the customer experience element. “Saint-Gobain aims to ensure that the customer remains at the heart of all we are doing as a business,” Vishal summed up. “It’s a journey, and to complete it, we need everyone in the company to play their part. Without you, we can never achieve our business vision.” w

CUSTOMER nEED VS. S-G DElIVERy

Customer need

S-G Delivery

“Right price”

w Market related w Cheapest possible

“Right stuff”

w Product quality w Product range w Technical specifications w Industry certification

Poor

Excellent

Pricing Products & Services Order Processing Communication

“Right time”

w Enough stock w On time delivery w Efficient documentation w Well planned

Business Consultant Invoicing & Billing

SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 9

PROJECT

Silo District showcases sustainability Recycling takes on a whole new meaning when a former grain silo is transformed to house a museum. Saint-Gobain’s innovative green products are at the heart of the cutting-edge Silo Precinct development on the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

he historically significant old grain silo complex on the V&A Waterfront has been re-imagined to form the heart of a new mixed-use space – the Silo District. The old grain silo building itself will house the new Zeitz Mocca Museum of Contemporary African Art – the first major museum in the world to focus on contemporary art from Africa. Adjoining the museum is the high end Grain Silo Hotel.

10 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2016

Partnering in sustainability Having started with the construction of No. 1 Silo, Allan Gray Head Office, the Silo District will have been revitalised to the full when No. 6 Silo is completed in 2017. Saint-Gobain’s products will have made a huge contribution to this worldleading sustainable development. For starters, No. 1 Silo, the first building in the development to have been completed, owes its prized place as the only building in South Africa to get a six-star as-built rating from the

Green Building Council of South Africa to Saint-Gobain’s innovative green products. As Janet Thomson, Regional Technical and Specifications Manager Cape, explained: “Our systems have top-notch thermal, acoustic and aesthetic properties. They are also durable, promote good health, enable developers to save time and money and are lightweight. The last-mentioned is particularly important in a development like the Silo Precinct, because heritage

PROJECT

structures are being used and weight is a major limiting factor on what can be done with them.” For instance, Saint-Gobain Gyproc is able to provide walls that are 10 times lighter than traditionally constructed walls, there are no wet works on site while the products are being installed and they are also 3 times quicker to install than traditional walling. Services are accommodated in the cavities and comfort levels are superior because of the acoustic and thermal properties of the products. Add to this excellent fire ratings, the flexibility to fit different heights and thicknesses and to change these without too much effort or expense, along with easy maintenance, and the choice of Saint-Gobain as a preferred supplier makes a lot of sense. Providing unique solutions The recently completed buildings in the V&A Waterfront development in which Saint-Gobain’s Gyproc, Isover, Norton and PAM products feature are: the No 1 Silo and No 2 Silo apartments, the Breakwater apartments, Workshop 17, the Portwood Edge apartments and

the aquarium. Various shops in the Waterfront Mall, such as the H&M store, V&A store, Hamley’s, Zara and Top Shop also boast Saint-Gobain products . The Zeitz Mocca Museum provided an opportunity to show just how well Saint-Gobain is able to provide solutions to suit client requirements. As Janet pointed out: “It is standard to design a drywall to hang heavy items like televisions, basins, kitchen cupboards and studs directly off the walls using noggins and load-bearing studs and tracks. In the design phase of the museum, we had to determine the best fixing method for artworks of unknown weight and in varying places on the walls. Our technical department was able to provide a cost-effective solution.” Add to this the fact that SaintGobain has specifications, technical and commercial teams constantly on hand to evolve and modify systems where required, and it becomes obvious why the company was chosen as a preferred supplier and its walling, ceiling and bathroom solutions were specified throughout the projects mentioned here. w

Our systems have top-notch thermal, acoustic and aesthetic properties.

Silos in a nutshell The Silo Precinct consists of: w The Grain Silo Zeits Mocca Museum and the Grain Silo Boutique Hotel w No. 1 Silo, the Allan Gray office (completed) w No. 2 Silo, residential apartments (completed) w No. 3 Silo, residential apartments (under construction) w No. 4 Silo, Virgin Active health club (completed) w No. 5 Silo, an office block housing PwC and Werksman’s attorneys (completed) w No. 6 Silo, Radisson Red, a 4-star hotel (under construction) District-wide utilities service the buildings. These include a sea watercooling and heating plant that uses the ocean as a renewable energy source, dramatically reducing the consumption of electricity and potable water required to heat and cool the buildings.

SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 11

PROJECTS

Stand 47’s reputation building power is legend So handsomely did this clever marketing concept pay off that other sites are coming on stream to keep the momentum going.

he invaluable contribution that Stand 47 made to Saint-Gobain’s reputation in the habitat market is incontestable. Initially, Saint-Gobain took a lease on the house for just a year, but the strong identity the marketing team built for the house paid such dividends that the lease was renewed. Only now has it finally been relinquished, after two-anda-half astoundingly successful years. The last group of visitors got to experience this remarkable house at Monaghan Farm on 15 October. They followed in the footsteps of notables like the French Ambassador and South Africa’s top instagrammer, as well as a host of professionals, merchants, specialist distributors, executive teams, students and ordinary people looking for innovative homebuilding ideas. Like their predecessors, they left mightily impressed. Saint-Gobain Gyproc Hotel and Residential Sector Manager Michelle Cerruti said, “Being involved in Stand 47 was a fantastic experience. It did a good job, allowing large numbers of people to really truly experience what a difference our products make to a home!”

University of Pretoria construction management students were required to complete an assignment on lightweight materials based on visits to the house.

Hard-working house More than 3 000 visitors passed through Stand 47, thanks to the more than R23 million in PR value it generated in its lifetime. “We generated R14.1 million of this PR value in 2015 alone as the #wintertest and #resttest campaigns created interest. In addition people stayed in the house almost every weekend this year,” enthused Michelle. Michelle is proud that the house became so well recognised as an excellent place to truly experience the comfort benefits modern building methods offer that second-year

Not over yet She is also delighted with the way the subtle marketing message of the regular winter tests and rest tests hosted at the house were strengthened by the webbased “How-To” guides the team made available this year. “They have already been downloaded over 19 000 times and we expect them to remain in demand. The big plus is that they list the actual Saint-Gobain products to use in each application. We were far subtler with our message at the actual house.” Fortunately, the Stand 47 concept lives on. To organise a visit, by

12 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2016

Val de Vie a worthy successor So intrigued was South African 2004 Olympic gold medallist Ryk Neethling after spotting a Stand 47 advertisement that he contacted Saint-Gobain. The relationship that developed has resulted in an ambition to build the first multi-comfort home in the southern hemisphere at the prestigious Val de Vie polo estate near Paarl, in the Western Cape. Look out for news of this project, at Val de Vie. In about a year’s time, it will be the place to take people to see, feel and hear for themselves the difference Saint-Gobain’s innovative products make.

appointment, to another sustainable home overlooking Bullfrog Pan in Benoni that showcases Saint-Gobain Gyproc’s industry-first high strength drywall, HabitoTM just contact her at michelle.cerruti@saint-gobain.com. w

PROJECTS

HabitoTM struts its stuﬀ at Bullfrog Pan A stunning energy efficient home in Benoni combines the use of SaintGobain materials with HabitoTM drywalling.

irst-time home builders Ryan and Patrick Fitzgerald were curious about ways to build an upmarket home using alternative building materials and systems to achieve energy efficiency and sustainability. Ryan knew drywalling would be part of his solution. He said: “The reason I chose this building method is that I believe in the system; I’ve been exposed to it before and it is comfortable for building and living.” What he hadn’t seen before was

HabitoTM, Gyproc’s industry-first high strength drywall. It provides a building solution unsurpassed in strength and durability, with the most obvious advantage that anything can be hung onto HabitoTM walls, anywhere. More than just strength This home requires no air conditioning or additional heating, even though it is predominantly west facing. This orientation was chosen because architect Brent Rahme wanted to

maximise space and capture the breath-taking views of Bullfrog Pan. He also designed the home to showcase the abilities of all the SaintGobain products used. Apart from HabitoTM, these include: w Gyproc Gyptone Big line 6 with Activ’Air w Gyproc Moisture Resistant Boards w Isover Cavitybatt Insulation w Isover Aerolite Insulation w Weber ETICS External Cladding System. w

Own a piece of Saint-Gobain

very year Saint-Gobain Group offers all employees the opportunity to invest in the Group’s development. The company share scheme enables employees to buy shares at a discounted price, and adds by matching the investment up to a certain limit. The 2017 share scheme will be announced next year. Keep your eyes open for more information.

Saint-Gobain’s share performance on the French stock exchange over the past five years.

SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 13

PRODUCTS

Iron-clad facts for you Cast iron pipes have many advantages

irst manufactured in 1864, cast iron pipes have become the material of preference for drainage systems. Cast iron pipe systems have a robustness and strength that other materials cannot match. They typically last the lifetime of a building. “Compared with other materials, cast iron is resistant to thermal expansion and contraction, which means that there is no requirement for expansion joints on the system,” explains Lefentse Masemola, PAM Sales Manager for southern Africa. “Cast iron systems are also quieter than any other systems when water flows through them. In high-occupancy and multi-storey buildings, cast iron systems are the best alternative as they will not add to the spread of fire across floors, will remain structurally sound far longer, and even more crucially – will barely emit any smoke or fumes. These are considered the fastest killer in the event of a fire.” Cast iron systems are manufactured from up to 95% recycled content (scrap), are 100% recyclable using

harmless processes, and do not lose any of their mechanical properties over time. More benefits These systems are used both above and below ground. They are also ideal for bridge drainage, as their material expands virtually the same as concrete structures. They are not prone to fail with exposure to sunlight as plastic systems are (photochemical ageing), and will also not bend with temperature fluctuations. “Cast iron is generally perceived to be more expensive than plastic pipe systems. However, different plastic and alternative material systems are also priced differently,” says Lefentse. Modern cast iron systems can be push-fit assembled, with the following benefits: w Increased speed of installation (saving on labour and time related costs); and w No need for the additional curing time that fusion welded systems require before they can be tested. For building owners, there is

a longer-term cost consideration: “How much will the system cost me over its entire lifetime – frequency of maintenance and replacement considered?” From this perspective, cast iron is one of the most cost-effective pipe materials. w

Habito™ is making waves in the market

HabitoTM is strong enough to hang just about anything.

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A unique launch and follow-up campaign continues to create great excitement about Habito™ in the South African market – and beyond.

PRODUCTS

Goodbye to mouldy grout Stained, mouldy grout is a thing of the past, thanks to two innovative Weber products. Both are set to bolster Saint-Gobain’s competitive position early in 2017. Premium Grout The very first stain resistant grout with mould-resistant properties available in South Africa comes from Saint-Gobain, of course. Weber’s Premium Grout incorporates both Protect3 and PureClean technology and is easy to use. “It is available in three colour options, is flexible, waterproof and quick setting,” said Tiisetso Mokotjo, Tile Fixing and Waterproofing Product Manager, Saint-Gobain Weber. The product’s Pure-Clean technology makes it very easy to clean and has a high resistance to stains. It also shows no colour shading or carbonation, which are commonly seen in local grouts. Protect3 technology, the ionic silver treatment incorporated into the product, protects against microbiological growth, making it mould-resistant, bacteria-resistant and algae-resistant.

Epox-easy Taking innovation a step further, Saint-Gobain Weber’s Epox-easy is a convenient two-component epoxy adhesive and grout. It can be used for interior and exterior tiling applications on floors and walls. Epox-easy is specially formulated to fix tiles where very high bond strength, toughness or flexibility is required and for grouting where there is a need for chemical resistance or complete nonpermeability. “This product contains a unique pigmentation system, which effectively locks colour into the sand, reduces the risk of staining and makes the residue much easier to remove from the tiles,” says Tiisetso. “When set and solidly bedded, it forms a robust layer, which is impermeable to liquids, resistant to chemicals, easy to sterilise, clean and maintain and is resilient to pressure washing.”

the market from France to Belgium, not just in South Africa. That’s a feather in our cap!”

rooping into Saint-Gobain South Africa’s head office in Samrand in late May, architects, developers and quantity surveyors were amazed to meet the sight of a couch, a motorbike, a wheelchair and other weighty and unwieldy items hanging off drywalling. This was how the market met Habito™, Gyproc’s industry-first highstrength drywalling. “Habito™ is all about fixability. We had to demonstrate that and I think we found the ideal way to do it,” said Heidi Olivier, Senior Product Manager for Gyproc. “Our week-long launch exhibition and the roadshow that followed have generated a host more enquiries than usual. And that’s not all: Five countries in the Group are using our pictures and launch concept. Our ideas are unlocking

Hitting the road The roadshow takes a Habito™ demonstration trailer to architects’ and developers’ offices and has come full circle. Having first headed up to Phalaborwa and Polokwane, then down via Durban to Cape Town and back via Port Elizabeth, November saw it back in Johannesburg and Pretoria, still making marketing magic. “Of course, having a great product to promote helps. Using Habito™ frees people from having to obey the rules pertaining to traditional drywalling. You can hang heavy things anywhere you like and move fixtures without damaging the walling, but using a

Epox-easy is available in three colours and can be used with ceramic, porcelain, mosaic and glass tiles on multiple surfaces. w Learn more For more information, please go to www.webertylon.co.za or email Tiisetso at Tiisetso. Mokotjo@saintgobain.co.za

chipboard screw. Each chipboard screw can take the weight of 15kg. You don’t need special screws, anchors or brackets. You can just screw fixtures directly onto the wall,” said Heidi. “Nor do you have to use doorstops to protect it from dents. It is unsurpassed in strength and durability. It also creates an effective buffer against noise and, together with insulation, makes it easy to regulate indoor temperature. What’s not to like about it – in any sector, from residential, through retail to education and medical?”

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ARChITECTURE AwARDS

Africa, the time is now! The future indisputably lies in Africa. Long featuring in the Western consciousness only as a land of unending suffering, it is now a place of rapidly falling poverty, increasing investment, and young populations.

t seems only fair that Africa’s rich cultures and growing population (predicted to reach 1.4 billion by 2025) finally take the stage, but it’s crucially important that the continent’s future development is done right. “Following in the footsteps of the hugely successful Architecture for Social Gain programme that we ran in 2015, the Africa Architecture Awards (AAA) seeks to celebrate design excellence,” says Evan Lockhart-Barker, Weber MD and sponsor of the awards. “The aim is to promote an increased awareness of the role and importance of architecture across Africa. Based on values rather than categories, the awards seek to honour established architects and crucially, encourage emerging and future voices.”

w Speculative: Concepts and projects that are unlikely to be built w Emerging voices: Student work w Critical dialogue: Writing, film and exhibitions on architecture Acclaimed judges The patron and ambassador of the awards are the acclaimed architects, David Adjaye from Ghana, and Phil Mashabane from South Africa, respectively. The other members of the judging panel are Guillame Koffi (Ivory Coast), Anna Abengowe (Nigeria), Edgar Pieterse (South Africa), Patti Anahory (Cape Verde), Tanzeem Razak (South Africa) and Dr Mark Olweny (Uganda).

A world-class award By creating an internationally recognized, world-class award for African architecture, Saint-Gobain promotes design excellence across a range of built environment disciplines. The company also generates stronger awareness of the role of architects with the general public. “We want to educate public and private sector clients to commission better work, and build conversations, connections and collaboration for architects across the continent,” states Evan. “Another objective is to provide a new global view of African architecture.” AAA consists of four categories: w Built: Projects in Africa built within the last five years

TIMElInES Entries open ﬁrst quarter 2017 June 2017 . . . . . . . . Entries close (except the People’s Choice Award ) July 2017 . . . . . . . . . First round of judging Shortlist announced August 2017 . . . . . . . Peoples Choice Award closes September 2017. . . . . Final judging, seminar, exhibition and awards ceremony

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Entries will be evaluated according to three criteria – innovation, identity and implementation. Five entries from each category will be shortlisted for the awards ceremony. From these, two merit and one trophy winner will be chosen. One of the four trophy winners will receive the grand prize of USD10 000. The general public will also have a say by voting online for the Peoples Choice Merit Winner. w You can follow the awards on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and LinkedIn, and on www.africaarchitectureawards.com.

SUB-SAhARAn AFRICA

Saint-Gobainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footprint in Sub-Saharan Africa A

fter the initial exploration phase, Saint-Gobain now has a structured approach towards Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The company has employed staff members in the key markets, and its objective is to grow sales through imports or via the development of an industrial footprint when the market requirements justify it. Achieving this goal requires the organisation to constantly adapt and gain in agility. The following pages give an overview of what is happening in the SSA Delegation.

GhAnA Showroom with Gyproc, Isover, Brasilit, Ecophon, Weber, PAM, Exprover and Norton products. Ghana is an epitome of a progressive habitat forum, where a number of Saint-Gobain brands are working together on projects. The market is home to the west Africa region sales office and a Weber plant with 13 employees.

PAM In wEST AFRICA The 2016 highlight was to contribute bringing drinkable water to more places, in Ivory Coast in particular. The challenge is now to quench more peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thirst next year in Ivory Coast, Senegal, Mali and other countries in the area.

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SUB-SAhARAn AFRICA

Southern Africa nAMIBIA Showroom with Gyproc, Donn and Isover products. Namibia is the biggest market in Southern Africa. In 2016 the third annual Green Building Council meeting took place and it was the first that SaintGobain attended.

ZIMBABwE Showroom with Gyproc, Isover, Weber, PAM and Donn products. Gyproc plant with 73 employees. In 2016, the plant successfully embarked on RhinoLite production to service Zambia, Malawi and northern Mozambique.

BOTSwAnA Showroom with Gyproc, Isover and Weber products. One of the highlights for the market was a successful breakfast seminar hosted by the Botswana Institute of Development Professionals (BIDP). Four Saint-Gobain activities, Gyproc, Isover, Weber and PAM presented at the seminar.

SOUTh AFRICA

Saint-Gobain Sub-Saharan Africa Delegation oďŹ&#x192;ce w Ecophon sales team: In 2016 they held two successful educ challenges they face for 2017 is ensuring a strong positive g w Norton: A small sales team focusses on selling and distribu w Gyproc: Four plants, four service centers. Gyproc had a suc partnership with YouthBuild International. The positive app challenge for 2017 lies in the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic stability w PAM: Four sales offices. In 2016 PAM saw the first significan generated locally. Next year the main challenge they face, i foundation (PAM Piles) markets. w Isover: Two plants. In 2016, Isover launched a digital campa growth of the HVAC market growth. In 2017 their challenge standards. w Weber: Three plants. 2016 was a year of re-engaging existi in the pipeline and improved efficiencies; working toward m w PG Glass: 10% shareholding

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SUB-SAhARAn AFRICA

Central Africa

CAMEROOn Showroom with Eurocoustic, Placo and Isover products

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC (CAR)

CAMEROON

SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE

REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

cation events; secured the speciﬁcations for several large buildings for 2017 and launched Akusto One and New School Offer. The main growth in a tough market and that their spec is maintained to order. uting imported products. ccessful year on the educational with South Africa’s first CETA accredited drywall and ceiling learnership, and a Saint-Gobain petite for new product offers such as Habito, GlassRoc H & Soundbloc showed improvement in the value added board ratio. Their y and the way it impacts project rollouts, thereby directly affectings Gyproc’s speciﬁcation pipeline and penetration opportunities. nt sales of ductile iron pipes from local stocks and a good level of activity on Pamex projects (€5.5 M) in addition to what was is competition on manhole covers made of composite materials, and the introduction of new ranges to the mining (PAM Mineral) and

aign to promote Aerolite, increased sales of Cavitybatt and EPS sales, launched Cavitylite, expanded their route to market and saw es will include increased competition, ﬂuctuating exchange rates, gaining market share in affordable housing and the policing of

ing staff, hiring new skill and enabling change through Weberation. 2017 should represent onward and upward, with exciting NPD plans market share gain and profitable sales growth.

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SUB-SAhARAn AFRICA

EThIOPIA In 2016 this team achieved 50% more sales than budget and the Saint-Gobain office opened in the fourth quarter of the year. SaintGobain was very well received at the Ethiopian Architecture Associates annual convention.

KEnyA Showroom with Gyproc, Isover, Weber, Saint-Gobain Glass, PAM, Norton and Sevax products. The Saint-Gobain east Africa region sales office is based in Kenya. It also houses PAM, Norton and Exprover. Kenya was the first country (outside South Africa) to host the Architecture Awards launch at the Architectural Association of Kenya annual convention in August 2016.

TAnZAnIA Showroom with Gyproc, Isover and Weber products. The market is serviced through Saint-Gobainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest distributor outside South Africa. The country hosts a gypsum board plant with 107 employees and has improved quality and safety standards in 2016.

MAURITIUS Showroom with Gyproc and Weber products

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BRAnD

Modern skyline comes to Saint-Gobain Saint-Gobain’s logo has undergone a metamorphosis and it now boasts a new, modern look.

“I

n its 350-year history, Saint-Gobain has become a well-respected name. Although the brand is held in such high regard, many things have changed throughout those 350 years and it is imperative for any brand to evolve with the changes,” explains Pierre-André de Chalendar, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. A strong brand helps defend against market trends such as commoditisation. People choose brands based on their customer experience. “We need a strong brand that is close to people and that brings tangible benefits and expresses values they can relate to. A strong brand means we are not fighting competitors on price alone,” says Pierre-André.

How the logo has evolved A logo is an expression of a company’s strategy. Saint-Gobain’s logo started off with the bridge – a very strong durable structure. The new brand is pulsating with vitality and renewed energy. The skyline embodies our ambition to create great living places and improve daily lives. It is complemented by a vibrant graphic style, reflecting the dynamism that drives an innovative company such as Saint-Gobain. A complete picture Everything works together to support the mission, promise and brand content pillars Saint-Gobain embraces. w

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1. Because digital is making profound changes to the way we do business: 40% of the world’s population (almost 3 billion people) are online. 70% of people want to know more about the companies that make the products and services they use. 2. Because strong brands drive customer preference: At a time when prices and technical information can be easily compared, the brand is the only enduring differentiator. 3. Because a stronger Saint-Gobain brand helps to realise the potential of our assets, to create a coherent and consistent message and to increase our share of voice: The breadth and depth of Saint-Gobain’s offering is its main differentiator. 4. Because people want to work for a brand that is more visible and that makes a difference: More and more employees and candidates are looking for meaningful work that makes a difference in daily life.

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High-tech and innovative

Warmth, comfort, wellbeing SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 21

Sub-Saharan Africa

The Saint-Gobain living spaces market S

aint-Gobain materials and solutions can be found everywhere in our living spaces and daily lives – in buildings, transportation, infrastructure and in many industrial applications. They provide comfort, performance and safety while addressing the challenges of sustainable construction, resource efficiency and climate change. With Africa emerging as the world’s fastest developing continent and experiencing significant urbanisation, Saint-Gobain has a key role to play. The Group’s wide portfolio of brands and solutions will contribute to the development of Africa and shape it’s future.

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Saint-Gobain, a key ingredient in the wellbeing of each of us and the future of all.

Sub-Saharan Africa

Admixtures now made in Ghana H igh range admixtures from Weber for the West African market now bear the “Made in Ghana” stamp. As part of Saint-Gobain’s plan to strengthen operations in the West African Region, a new plant was opened at Tema Community 3, near the main Tema shipping harbour. The plant produces highrange water reducers, plasticisers, waterproofing admixtures, curing compounds, retarders, accelerators, concrete pigments, synthetic fibres, corrosion inhibitors and bonding agents. It employs ingenious internal quality control measures to maintain product integrity and standards. This factory will make it easier for Saint-Gobain to capitalise on

the growing West African real estate, infrastructure development and construction markets.

If you would like to know more, please contact Ramy Taleb at Ramy.Taleb@saint-gobain.com. w

Westtar Kapito, Regional Business Executive for Saint-Gobain West Africa (far left), with the team at the Weber plant.

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MARKETING

Sound psychology should underlie workplace design Sound is an issue in the workplace. Just ask anyone in your office.

orkplace design and use can benefit greatly from Ecophon’s research, spearheaded by Paige Hodsman and Nigel Oseland, into understanding people’s psychological response to noise, a field known as psychoacoustics. The same can be said of the research into sensory intelligence conducted by Dr Annemarie Lombard and her team. “We were delighted to come across Dr Lombard’s research to complement our own. Both have bearing on acoustic design, but also influence broader aspects of design such as thermal and visual comfort.” explained Lauren Krüger, Concept Developer at Ecophon. “The ability to combine the two sets of research prompted us to run a workshop exploring both psychoacoustics and sensory intelligence research at the SaintGobain Innovation Centre in London recently. The built environment professionals – including architects, interior architects and real estate managers – who attended were fascinated by the content and the

results of our two profiling tools.” Each person did a mini-profile of themselves to gain insight into how the tools work. Once they understood their own profile, they looked at designing a space in which they would work best. “People were fascinated to discover their sensory profile and associate it to their psychological response to noise” Lauren said. “I hope that presenting this workshop in South Africa, as we plan to do during next year, will spark an examination for the need for variance and choice within workspace design, as well as an appetite for working out what works best for whom in our corporate environments. Once we start doing that, we will start getting more usable environments.” w

One of a select few Lauren Krüger is part of SaintGobain’s 11-member international concept development group. As the only South African member and one of only three members from countries outside Europe, her most valuable contribution to the group is meeting the need to shift concepts to suit the African context.

People were fascinated to discover their sensory profile and associate it to their psychological response to noise.

Norton products sell themselves H

ave you been watching YouTube lately? Go and watch a Norton disc cleaning the paint off a piece of metal in minutes. Now, that’s impressive! Tommie Smit, business unit manager for Norton, is passionate about his department’s products. “Our products sell themselves. Once you have watched them being used in the YouTube videos, you cannot but be impressed.” According to Tommie, the Norton

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business unit is doing very well. “We recently started using Aluwen.co.za for direct sales, and so far it has picked up nicely.” Tommie says that he tried to buy abrasives online and couldn’t find any. “I typed in ‘Norton cutting disc online buy’ and there were no workable results. If potential customers cannot find you, they cannot buy your products. We had to make a plan.” On the Aluwen website, all the information is available, with a link to

the YouTube video that demonstrates the use of the product. The website has also initiated bigger potential sales. “A truck body building company saw our products online and they are interested in becoming a customer. The website has definitely made us more visible.” Apart from the usual dependable products, new products in the line include: w The rapid strip range: “There is no competition for this product in South

MARKETING

People are getting new houses without moving T

o show how easy it is to swop your house for a palace without breaking the bank or moving, Saint-Gobain came up with a competition: Upgrade My Home. The competition’s main aim was to introduce homeowners to the wonderful world of renovation through Saint-Gobain’s products. Particularly in the current economic climate, fewer homeowners can afford to either move house or do major renovations. However, many families may wish that they could modernise and improve their homes to be more comfortable and efficient. Wonderful world The grand prize of R250 000 will use state-of-the-art Saint-Gobain building materials designed to improve comfort in a home in five important areas: w I mproved indoor temperature performance (thermal comfort); w I ncreased savings (economic comfort); wL ess noise (audio comfort); wB etter indoor air quality (air comfort); and w I nteriors that increase a sense of calm and wellbeing for their users (visual comfort).

Part of the campaign was the documenting of an upgrade to the existing Rondebosch home of well-known South African media personality and healthcare professional Dr. Michael Mol. He wanted to upgrade his home into a healthier, warmer and more comfortable environment. This upgrade was monitored and the home’s thermal, acoustic and energy performance was measured before and after the upgrade. Go to www.upgrademyhome.co.za to see how the Mol home was transformed.

The upgrade will include the upgrading of all walls, ceilings, insulation, flooring and select glass windows, along with the installation of a web-based digital monitoring solution. The grand prize also includes a digital monitoring solution that will allow the homeowner to remotely monitor temperature, humidity, air quality, electricity and water consumption. This monitoring solution also includes efficiently managing energy consumption items such as geysers and pool pumps, with the home owner

receiving alerts should consumption spike above a preset ceiling value. The second prize of R25 000 includes a full house insulation upgrade as well as a geyser blanket kit and installation and the third prize of R12 500 comprises a room insulation, geyser blanket kit and insulation. Support services are also available to the winners, outlining the benefits of each material, providing proof of better performance, hints and tips for installation and a list of retail partners and service providers. w

Africa. It lasts eight times longer than traditional flap discs and is amazing for metal preparation.” w The multi-purpose cutting disk: “It cuts anything and everything, from metal to wood and ceramics. It has a cool touch, therefore is very safe, and it is OSA approved.” Tommie is quick to point to his team as the reason for the recent successes. “We are a small team, but will have to expand soon, the way our sales are picking up.” Tommie says that he is proud of what they have achieved so far and is full of optimism for the future.

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PRODUCTS

If you can’t hear, you can’t learn Teaching relies on a teacher being able to guide learners through a topic, although that is not the only important factor in learning. Children need to hear to be able to learn.

“S

ometimes learners cannot hear clearly, either because the sound pressure level is too high (it is too noisy) or because of a lack of speech clarity,”

Lauren Krüger, Concept Developer at Ecophon, points out. “For example, the teacher stands at the front of the classroom and talks and the sound

Aiding education in South Africa In 2013, the Department of Education in South Africa stated that there were 12 883 888 learners in the basic education system, who attended 30 027 educational institutions and were served by 447 149 educators. In general terms, this means that approximately 25% of the total population of South Africa spends the majority of their days in classrooms: learners and teachers alike. Classrooms therefore make up a great part of the space that the youth of South Africa occupy. The following educational facilities have been retrofitted by Saint-Gobain Ecophon to date: w University of Pretoria w University of Johannesburg w Sol Plaatjies University w Affies (boys’ high school) w Tshwane University of Technology w University of Cape Town w Wits University w Mpumalanga University w American International School w EWC College w Trans Oranje School w Nigel Secondary High School w Thuto Pele Secondary High School w Mvelaphande Primary School w Tshepisa Primary School w Bafokeng Primary School w DSG School w Hoërskool Waterkloof w Eduplex High School, Pretoria w Phomolong Secondary School w Villa Lisa Secondary School w Amos Maphanga Secondary School w Steve Bikoville Secondary School w Seshegong Secondary School

reflects off back wall. The children at back will hear the original speech plus late reflections. If you cannot make out what people saying, you cannot learn it.” Especially when children are still young, disturbing noises from inside or outside the classroom can make kids miss words or syllables in words. Put to the test This issue prompted Saint-Gobain South Africa to embark on a case study with St Stithians College in Bryanston, Johannesburg. During the September holidays, Saint-Gobain retrofitted two classrooms at the girls’ college, one north-facing classroom, and one south-facing classroom. Both classrooms were fitted with Habito drywalling and lined with Cavitybatt insulation from Isover to thermally insulate the walls, as well as eliminate noise from the outside of the classrooms. Isover Aerolite insulation in the ceilings also contributes to the thermal comfort of the classrooms.

Students from the Gyproc Academy worked on the retrofit of the classrooms, giving them real life, hands-on experience.

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DElEGATIOn

Ecophon Gadena ceiling tiles were fitted, to assist with acoustic performance, and sound panels from Ecophon were placed at the back of the classrooms to absorb the internal sound of the classroom, making it easier for teachers to speak to classes without having to raise their voices. PG Glass replaced the standard windows with double glazed tinted windows in the north-facing classroom to prevent too much sunlight from entering the classroom, keeping the heat out. In the south-facing classroom, double glazed un-tinted windows increase the light entering the classroom. “Over the course of the next few months, we will be monitoring the performance of these two classrooms compared with twin rooms adjacent to them that have not been retrofitted,” said Lauren. Evidence awaited Learning spaces that provide a certain level of multi-comfort directly contribute to the quality of the education that a student receives. “By making sure that the temperature is sustainably controlled, acoustics is conducive to proper communication between teachers and students and the overall level of comfort is high, we hope to provide evidence that a multi-level of comfort in classrooms directly contributes to the level of education achieved, as well as the quality of work that is produced by the students,” said Lauren. For more information, feel free to search for education related clips on Ecophon’s YouTube channel: Ecophon TV. w

Saint-Gobain is a Top Employer One of eight companies worldwide to have received this global accolade, Saint-Gobain has obtained “Top Employer Global 2016” certification.

t is one of eight companies worldwide to receive this honour delivered by Top Employers Institute, an independent body that studies corporate human resources practices. Saint-Gobain stands out, in particular, for paying close attention to talent management and skills development. Another decisive factor was its corporate culture, rooted in strong values that form the basis of its Corporate Social Responsibility policy. “Top Employer certification is part of our open and continuous improvement approach. The audit enables us to identify innovative human resources practices outside the company and to discuss our short and long term challenges,” says Claire Pedini, Senior Vice President in charge of Human Resources, Saint-Gobain Group. Six hundred practices and indicators regarding working conditions were approved and audited for each of the 21 countries which were certified and where Saint-Gobain is present: Brazil,

Canada, China, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States. This illustrates the strength and cohesion of the Group’s human resources policy at the international level, a policy that has four key priorities: professional mobility, team diversity, employee commitment and the development of talent. “Saint-Gobain is a perfect example of a company that has harmonised its operations in a way which not only benefits its employees, but also its operational efficiency on a global scale,” points out David Plink, CEO at Top Employers Institute. This is the third year in a row that Saint-Gobain has been certified for South Africa and the first year that it has won the labels for North America and Asia-Pacific. w

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InTERnAl

Blow the whistle! Whistleblowing is reporting wrongdoing to someone who can do something about it. It’s the right thing to do.

n more formal language, it is disclosing information when you reasonably believe that irregular conduct has happened, is happening or is likely to happen. The Saint-Gobain Group provides safe, confidential ways for you to be a whistleblower because it is important to ensure that management’s decisions and employees’ conduct comply with the Group’s values, the law and the company’s internal rules and procedures. “Criminal, improper, unethical, inappropriate or other irregular conduct is detrimental to good, effective, accountable and transparent governance,” says Claire Baissac, Compliance Officer for Sub-Saharan Africa. People at every level in the Group are responsible for applying the Principles of Conduct and Action and every employee has a responsibility to disclose irregular conduct in the workplace.

What to do Step 1: Refer the issue to your immediate manager. Step 2: If your manager is the subject of the complaint or a previous complaint about the matter did not result in action being taken, refer it to the Compliance Officer, your Human Resources contact, the Business Improvement and Risk Reporting Mechanism

South Africa

Group Internal Mailbox

Manager, or the relevant Managing Director. Step 3: If you feel uncomfortable about approaching these people, if you think they may not manage the issue appropriately, or if you suspect approaching them would serve no purpose, please use one of the whistleblowing options below: Zimbabwe

Other Sub-saharan African Countries

Group-Compliance-Alert-Subsahaf

Telephone hotline

0800 655 655

TelOne:08004100 N/A Econet:08085500 NetOne:0716800189 or 0716800190

Call-Back Service

011 9293332

+2711 9293332

Website Free Fax Post

N/A

www.tip-offs.com 0800 00 77 88

N/A

Deloitte Tip-offs Anonymous KZN 138 Umhlanga Rocks, 4320, South Africa

Compliance makes us competitive The world’s leading global companies are looking to the sourcing and procurement function to do a lot more than cut the price of supplies.

“T

here’s much more to purchasing than just getting the best price,” explains Francois Nel, General Manager, Supply Chain. “Procurement remains under intense pressure to minimise purchasing costs, but we need to consider a lot of other things too whenever we buy something for the company. Things like performance, competitiveness, long-term relationships, innovation

28 | BUZZ | SUMMER 2016

and sustainability all form part of the picture.” World-class procurement This is where world-class procurement (WCP) comes in. Saint-Gobain applies this methodology internationally. “It focuses on getting the most value for what we spend, while ensuring that all business control procedures are followed,” Francois points out. Four processes take place when

WCP is applied: 1. Scoping (what do we need) 2. The competitive process (what we will get, for how much) 3. Selection 4. Review Little things add up to a lot The Group spends about €3 billion per year on general expenses purchases. This is the second biggest spend after production purchases.

InTERnAl

Start your own business! With the help of Saint-Gobain Do you have an innovative business idea, but need support to implement it? Then the Saint-Gobain Intrapreneurs programme is what you need.

aint-Gobain wants to encourage intrapreneurship among its employees in order to make the Group increasingly inventive, agile and efficient. The Group offers employees, who have a viable project that is of interest to the company, with an opportunity to develop their project. The employee continues to be paid by the Group for the term of the project’s incubation. What to do Discuss your business idea with your manager or HR Business Partner. If they agree that you have a viable idea, it will be referred to Sub-Saharan Africa Delegation. Once a project has been selected, the following is defined contractually: w How the project is to be developed. w The length of the project’s incubation (18 months maximum). w The legal arrangement. w The financial conditions that apply to

“General expenses purchases account for a large set of products and services that are necessary to keep the company running efficiently,” says Francois. “The purchasing team is committed to responsible purchasing, which is key to Saint-Gobain’s competitiveness and innovation. We work closely with all departments and businesses, and even offer training to make sure everyone understands the procurement process.” He concludes: “If we all adhere to the purchasing policy and procedures, we not only keep the general purchases expense in check, we make the company more profitable and competitive.”

the employee over the relevant period. At the end of the incubation period, if the project is mature, you may create your own company according to the conditions defined in the contract. In this case, you will resign from SaintGobain. In exceptional cases you and SaintGobain could decide to continue the

project’s incubation for a further six months. If the project is not continued, you return to the company having learned from this new experience. w For more information, speak to your HR Business Partner, or email Talk2us@Saint-Gobain.com.

Discuss your business idea with your manager or HR Business Partner. If they agree that you have a viable idea, it will be referred to Sub-Saharan Africa Delegation.

The Group has compiled a best practices booklet that explains how to curb general expenses. If you would like a copy, please email naas.prinsloo@saint-gobain.com w

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PAGE STRAP PRIDE AwARDS

Meet our PRIDE This year’s winners embody the true meaning of PRIDE. P is for passion Passion brought Albert Msibi of Sagex Springs to the fore as the winner of this year’s Pride Environment, Health and Safety Award. His will to do his best is an inspiration to us all! Read more about him on page 3 of the October issue of Your Life.

R is for respect R is also for Ravi, this year’s winner of the Internal Customer Service Pride Award. Ravi Datadin, an electrician at Donn Germiston, was pleased to win after being a finalist a few times. Throughout, he has been more than prepared to use his skills as a fitter if there is a mechanical breakdown. If a team is struggling with the settings on a machine, he is the person they turn to. He has also made improvements to the line to prevent injuries and make sizing more accurate, innovating even as he serves. “I was brought up old school. I’m here to offer a service. I enjoy working in my field. It’s challenging, and I like to get involved in problem solving,” he said. “I reckon it’s important to know why you have your job. What is your output? Who are your customers? You need

to work like you are running your own small enterprise. I know the end of the game – the company needs to produce a product. That’s what it’s all about.” Pleased as he is to be a Pride Award winner, Ravi says two things are more important to him than this prize: “I find the recognition of the people I work with far more motivating than any prize. Also, I like to know that I am giving 100%. My conscience is clear when I draw my pay from the ATM.”

I is for integrity A can-do attitude and a friendly personality have helped Jessie Maharaj, Sales Representative at Gyproc Pinetown to be a true example of integrity, that keeps you steady when life puts you to the test. They also netted her this year’s Pride Award for External Customer Service. “A while ago, we lost two big customers to the opposition. I got one back after a big battle. I have been chasing the other for the past four years. I finally got them back two months ago,” she said delightedly. When asked how she did it, she said: “I just kept going and saying, ‘Hi!’” After 22 years with Saint-Gobain, the recognition blew her away. She

said: “I am very honoured to have been acknowledged. I love what I do. I love my customers and my interaction with them. That’s why I turned down an offer to apply for a service centre manager’s position a while ago.” Jessie plans to use her prize money to spoil her 12 nieces and nephews this Christmas. “Giving gives me so much pleasure. I grew up poor, so I enjoy being able to be generous. All the money in the world will never change me.”

D is for dedication The staying power to keep trying to improve in everything they do earned the Isover Cape Town Blocking team this year’s Innovation Pride Award. The team consists of Plant Manager Allan Botha; Adrian Jansen, Theo Solomons, and David Cupido. Allan said: “We were chatting while we worked and got onto the subject of offcuts. We had way too many of them and they represented wasted time, material and storage space. In fact, we had run out of storage space and our housekeeping was bad, which was dangerous.” Having come to the conclusion that customers mostly take common sizes

The category winners of this year’s Pride Awards are Sibusiso Mthembu (Leadership), Allan Botha, Adrian Jansen, Theo Solomons (Innovation), Jessie Maharaj (External Customer Service), David Cupido (Innovation), Ravi Naidoo (Internal Customer Service) and Daniel Masibi (EHS). Page 31: Caption: The team who walked away with top honours, Member Mashabela, Pravashan Naidoo, Richard Napier (MD Africa Development), Harold Webb, Gift Khoza, David Anderson (General Delegate), Patrick Mboniswa and Eva Duvenage (HR Business Partner).

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PRIDE PAGE AwARDS STRAP

The team who walked away with top honours, XX, Pravashan Naidoo, Richard Napier (MD Africa Development), Harold Webb, XX, David Anderson (General Delegate), XX and Eva Duvenage (HR Business Partner).

and having consulted the cutters to find out which sizes these were, the team then chatted to an engineer who freelances in maintenance at the plant. Together, they came up with the concept of a spacer. The first one cost about R5 000 to make and using it recouped that cost in about a day. The team is delighted that their idea will be implemented in other plants too, but they couldn’t help chuckling about the irony of the only plant without an on-site Engineering department coming up with this winning solution. Theo said “I think we’ll fund a braai for the whole plant with our prize money. Everybody is part of the team. We all do our utmost for the company.”

E is for excellence Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence. This belief underlies everything he does, according to Sibusiso Mthembu, Business Development Manager at Isover Samrand and this year’s Leadership Pride Award winner. “Being involved in sport gave me a strong competitive spirit and grounding in teamwork,” said Sibusiso, who was a football coach at the University of Johannesburg until 2011 and keeps the Isover action cricket team competitive. These traits underlie his hands-on approach to developing those around him and his contagiously positive, upbeat attitude. A collaborator of note, he constantly identifies opportunities for other business units and helps to open doors. He represents Saint-Gobain far and wide, even in parliamentary meetings! For the past ten years or so, Sibusiso has been harnessing his passion and skills to advance affordable housing in South Africa. “My life took a turn that brought daily involvement in building a house for an old lady. When we gave her the keys, I suddenly realised we hadn’t handed over a house, we had handed over a home and changed her and the next generation’s lives.” This driving force made Sibusiso instrumental in starting the My Comfort

affordable housing collaboration with Brazil, India and Colombia.

Our PRIDE: Teamwork Being the winners for teamwork, came as a huge surprise to the Technical Support business unit. “We didn’t do it for the competition,” insisted Pravashan Naidoo, one of the team members. “This is how we always do our job!” The winning team consisted of Pravashan, Member Mashabela, Sheldon Volsoo, Bongani Benya, Gift Khosa, Patrick Mboniswa and Shadrack Kosa*. Their winning teamwork was noted during a project to demonstrate a new product called Habito. They built a construction in the head office where heavy items – even a motorcycle – were fastened to drywalling. They had to finish the project in two weeks and it had to be done without interrupting the regular business activities. “It was hard and meant working long hours, but we enjoyed the project. We work well together and understand one another,” explained Member. What makes this team even more special is that they don’t have a team leader. Pravashan explained: “We are all equals and work towards a goal so that the business will benefit. Flexibility is key.”

*Shadrack sadly passed away recently. Our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. SUMMER 2016 | BUZZ | 31

CSI

Helping kids skate to success August saw the opening of the first Skateistan Skate School in South Africa, facilitated by a materials sponsorship of almost R250 000 in value from Saint-Gobain.

ll the interiors for Skateistan’s Skate School in Johannesburg, including drywalls and ceiling systems, were donated by Saint-Gobain. “The internal walls feature Gyproc Habito™. It’s durability and strength makes hanging items a breeze. Isover Cavitybatt insulation in the walls and Aerolite insulation above the Rhinoboard plasterboard ceilings, make the temperature in the repurposed shipping container classrooms far more comfortable and reduces noise from the stacked floors,” said Heidi Olivier, Senior Product Manager, Gyproc. “All these solutions are lightweight, and the drywall system was finished off with skim plaster for a fine aesthetic. These factors work together to create optimal environments for learners and teachers, with as few distractions as possible and minimal stress, which directly contributes to better learning experiences.”

Combining fun with learning Learning experiences are what Skateistan is all about. This awardwinning non-profit organisation uses skateboarding and education for youth empowerment. It serves more

Hammanskraal school to get new kitchen and clean water Motshegofadiwa Primary School will soon boast a new functional kitchen with clean running water, thanks to the 2015 winner of one of the categories of the Saint-Gobain Architecture for Social Gain awards.

s part of last year’s 350 year celebrations, Saint-Gobain launched the Architecture for Social Gain awards programme. In the Adopt-a-School category, architects had to come up with proposals to build or add onto an existing school.

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Kate Otten Architects was the winner of this category with their design for the Motshegofadiwa Primary School in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria. The architectural solution proposed is flexible so that it can work in other schools too.

than 1 500 at-risk youth every week in Afghanistan, Cambodia and South Africa. To this end, the Skate School offers programmes to students between the ages of 5 and 17, with a particular focus on girls and low-income youth. They get the opportunity to play and learn as part of the Skate and Create programme, or access homework help and career advice as part of the BackTo-School programme. The exceptional among them even have a chance to join the Youth Leadership programme. Thanks to support from the Royal Danish Embassy, Comic Relief and the Tony Hawk Foundation, more than 200 students (47% girls) have already registered for Skateistan’s programmes in Johannesburg. w

“Kate and her team visited three schools before deciding on Motshegofadiwa,” said Jeanette Coetzee, Corporate Communication and Events Manager. “What impressed them most about the school was the fact that, although it is in a poor community, the school grounds are immaculate, the children are friendly, the teachers are dedicated, the principal is proud and the community is involved.” Flexible solution “The children were asked to dream big and draw what they wanted for their school. The main theme was water and food,” Jeanette explained.

CSI

Schools for Africa All over the continent Saint-Gobain is making it’s mark in the lives of young people.

n South Africa, the company focused its 350 celebrations on education by assisting schools in Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. In Ghana, Kenya and Malawi, learners have also benefitted from the company’s products and expertise. Kinbu Primary School in Ghana Through the Saint-Gobain Initiatives Foundation, Saint-Gobain funded and provided technical expertise for the renovation of the Kinbu Primary School located in Accra, Ghana. Built in 1997 with UNICEF aid and then renovated with the support of the Foundation, Kinbu Primary School was inaugurated in October 2015. The Foundation funded the restoration of the playground that was initially made of laterite (red brick). Nagum Primary School in Kenya Nagum Primary School was identified in 2014 by a Saint-Gobain employee and the Saint-Gobain Initiatives Foundation contributed to the complete refurbishment of four classrooms to replace former timber buildings. Working alongside project leader France Kenya Sport Solidarité, the

KEnyA

parties involved local economic, social and political stakeholders. Saint-Gobain funded the foundations and walls of the four classrooms in which 370 pupils take turns for their lessons. A Malawian community made bricks years ago in the hope that someone would fund a school. They finally got to use them.

The whole school structure was manufactured in South Africa and then packed into four 6 m containers to be delivered to the site in Malawi. This ensured quality control and lowered the material cost, as well as ensuring the availability of Saint-Gobain’s innovative materials. The side louvers can be placed in a vertical or horizontal position. The vertical position provides more privacy and shelter, but still allows for crossventilation. The horizontal position provides more shaded area, extends the space beyond the building’s boundaries and provides more natural light. The main structure consists of lightweight steel framing and concrete MAlAwI

Legson Kayira Community Center and Primary School in Malawi Comfortable classrooms innovatively constructed with openable partition louvre walls covered with shade-netting have transformed life in Chimpamba, Malawi.

In the light of these dreams, the school will now become the proud owner of a functional kitchen with clean water. Kate Otten Architects will work with the Adopt-a-School Foundation and the building will be financed by the SaintGobain Initiatives Foundation, to the amount of €50 000. As many Saint-Gobain products as possible will used in the building and these will all be donated by the company. New impetus “The competition was so successful that a decision was made to turn it into a bi-annual awards programme for subSaharan Africa. The name of the new

programme is the Africa Architecture Awards (AAA),” said Jeanette. AAA is endorsed by the African Union of Architects and has been launched around the continent.

For more information, go to www.africanarchitectureawards.com, or follow progress on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn, #africaarchitectureawards.

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AROUnD ThE wORlD

Performance Plastics strengthens its position on the cell therapy market. The Life Sciences Business Unit of SaintGobain Performance Plastics has opened its new facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland (United States), for the manufacture of single-use systems. This plant will strengthen the Group’s position on the fast-growing cell therapy and biotechnology market. This investment illustrates Saint-Gobain’s commitment to improving daily life.

New showroom in Copenhagen: the “Habitarium” The “Habitarium,” a showroom proving the importance of well-being and how it is linked to Saint-Gobain solutions in the Nordic Countries and Baltic States, was officially opened in Copenhagen (Denmark. This 280 m2 meeting space includes a BIM studio and takes advantage of breakthrough technology like brain sensors used to measure how we are impacted by for instance changes in light and sound. The showroom tour has been designed to provide a guided visual and tactile visit enabling the visitors to engage with Saint-Gobain and to better understand how materials can influence the way in which we perceive comfort.

Sekurit in Argentina begins production in Campana Saint-Gobain Sekurit has begun production at its new plant in Campana (Argentina), in an industrial region 80 kilometers north of Buenos Aires with 100 employees and an annual production capacity of 600,000 windshields. It will serve original equipment manufacturers in Argentina and Brazil, as well as the aftermarket for small production series. The site is a new reference in Argentina in terms of quality and technology for windshield production. This is Sekurit’s second plant in Argentina, after Tortuguitas located 40 kilometers northwest of Buenos Aires.

Saint-Gobain products used in two stadiums for the Olympics In Brazil, Saint-Gobain Canalização was selected to supply materials for two stadiums used for the Rio Olympics and Paralympics. The EPAMS rainwater drainage system was used in the Youth Arena and Velodrome. In all, 38 outlets and more than 500 meters of pipe in various diameters were installed. The two sports facilities are now used as training venues for high-performance athletes.

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Silver medal for Saint-Gobain Abrasives’ Kolo site’s WCM programme Pierre-André de Chalendar, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, presented the Saint-Gobain Abrasives’ Kolo plant in Poland with the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) Silver level. This site is the first of the Group’s Abrasives Activity to achieve such a level of excellence. A driver of continuous improvement and operational performance, the WCM programme significantly improves worker safety and industrial performance, and rapidly pays off financially. The Group has become the region’s benchmark for operational perfection.

A glass giant in Saint-Petersburg Saint-Gobain has supplied more than 44,000 m2 of glass for the colossal Lakhta Center in Saint-Petersburg (Russia). This skyscraper, designed to house the offices of Gazprom, will be the tallest in Europe with 86 floors rising to 462 meters. The architects chose Saint-Gobain’s high-performance glass, assembled by Glassolutions’ Eckelt Glas site (Austria), for the building’s façades and to provide its occupants with maximum year-round comfort. The project is renowned for the complexity of its composition: the façade comprises two skins, formed of double-glazing units incorporating three different glass components.

Gyproc Vietnam launches virtual app for homeowners In Vietnam, Gyproc has created an app to demonstrate the diversity of its insulation and ceiling solutions. The app uses a 3-D model of a typical house to promote the innovative solutions and their appearance, and acoustic and fireprotection performance. Users can explore the entire ceiling range in a comprehensive photo gallery. Download the app from Google Play or the Apple Store.

Saint-Gobain in Shanghai combines cooking with solidarity In China, Saint-Gobain is supporting the Shanghai charity “À Pleines Mains” (APM) and is co-publishing the cooking book called “Baguettes & Fourchettes at the market.” The income from the book’s sale is entirely donated to APM which supports underprivileged people from all backgrounds: homeless, orphans and the disabled. “Baguettes & Fourchettes at the market” includes recipes based on Asian fruit and vegetables, information about the nutritional and medicinal value of the foods and advice about how to identify the best quality and storage. Published in three languages (French, English and Chinese), the book is sold in China, South Korea and Singapore.

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