20-PAGE FEATURE JUNE 23, 2013
2. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
Stories by CHERYL HAREWOOD BRITISH PAINTS started its operations at Garrison Hill, St Michael in the early 1960s. It soon moved its operations to a more spacious facility in Fontabelle, St Michael, opposite Pickwick Gap (now Dacosta Mannings Tyre Centre). The incorporation of British Paints in 1963 led to its amalgamation with Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited in 1968. Under the leadership of its Barbadian manager Tommy Knowles, the new company moved operations in 1971 to its current location at Exmouth Gap, Brandons, St Michael. At that time it employed 30 individuals. Fire destroyed the plant in 1995. Berger Paints quickly rebuilt its operation but in 1997 fire again gutted its operation. This unfortunate event, however, did not daunt the spirit of the staff, nor the enthusiasm for Berger to continue to manufacture some of the finest products in the industry. In October, 2000, Berger Paints gained its first ISO 9002 certification for the management system. In August, 2003, a newer version was completed for the certification of its ISO 9001, endorsing the consistency in which the company’s operations were being managed and in keeping with its aim to establish and maintain international quality standards. In 2002, Asian Paints took over ownership of the Berger group of companies – including Berger Paints (Trinidad) Limited and Berger Paints (Jamaica) Limited. This change exposed the local operations to a far greater range of products, extensive work in research and development, affiliation with international brands and allowed Berger (Barbados) to manufacture and distribute a range of products under licence. These products include: Carboline International – heavy-duty protective coatings, suitable for most complex surfaces and environments, and catering to the heavy industrial sector, including petrochemical and gas plants, oil rigs and offshore platforms, storage tanks and pipelines, power stations, waterworks, airport hangars and shipping terminals, towers and effluent treatment plants. DuPont – vehicle refinishes products formed an alliance with Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited for the distribution of Chroma and Nason Automotive Finishes. Petit Marine – marine paints Cabot Stains – for the processing of wood preservatives and wood care products. Berger Paints (Barbados) was now better positioned to provide the services of technically trained field representatives, who could meet and efficiently serve the needs of customers in this segment. In 2004, Berger introduced the Colour World Advanced Tinting System which offered consumers a fan deck of 1 320 colours. In addition to providing formulations for all previous Berger fan decks, this new system computerized and automated the tinting process, and opened the brand to a whole new way of tinting paint. Specific Colour World Centres with automatic tinting machines, shakers and, in some instances, interactive colour coordinating software were also made available to allow customers to experiment with colour before buying any paint. This change also made it more feasible for retailers to carry reduced stock, increased turnover of product and offered consumers a virtually infinite palette of colour choices. Today, Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited provides support to all sectors in the society, including • sports • schools, colleges and other institutions • community efforts • disaster relief • social, cultural and other national activities. Berger Paints management continues to look to the future with resolute optimism; an optimism that is driven by their commitment to service excellence, a passion for innovation and endless quests for creativity, the recognition of social responsibility as a good corporate citizen and the desire to serve the needs of all stakeholders, while developing a competent, skilled and dedicated workforce.
JUNE 23, 2013
FROM THE EARLY DAYS to the present, a keen focus on quality and consistency has enabled Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited to manufacture some of the finest products in the industry. (FP)
JUNE 23, 2013
SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 3
DIRECTOR AND Acting Chairman of Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited, Colin Fields, holds the record as the longest serving director of this company. He joined Berger Paints on April 16, 1967 as a salesman and was promoted to the position of sales manager one year later. He became a director in 1976. Prior to joining the Berger Paints team, Fields, who was educated at Combermere School, spent 20 years working in Trinidad and Tobago, five of which were spent in the oil industry. Today, he is quick to point out that it was only after joining the company that sales increased significantly and the company grew financially. During a recent interview, Fields reminisced on the early years, as tears settled in his eyes. He recalled: “The company started four years before I joined and was losing money every year. I came on board in April of 1967 and by December of that year, Berger Paints had made its first profit. Prior to this achievement, plans were in the works to shut down the business.” Up until his retirement in 1994, Fields worked around the clock to increase Berger Paints’ share of the local and export markets. He disclosed: “One of the reasons sales improved was because I was
RITESH DOSHI, GENERAL MANAGER. (GP)
successful with the export business. “The sales manager is always the one who spearheads a company. The result for me in this role was that everybody knew I was the man working to turn around the profits.” Humble and sincere, Fields does not take full credit for the company’s early years of success. “There were a few important people. Without their assistance I could not have done it. These people made excellent contributions. “Mike Fennell was one such individual. He was a young Jamaican on attachment from Berger Paints (Jamaica), [the first Berger Paints company in the Caribbean], to learn more about the paints industry in Barbados, [the second Berger Paints company in the Caribbean]. I would bring in the orders, but Mike looked after everything in the office, warehouse and shipping department. He did an excellent job and contributed greatly
to the growth of the company,” Fields stressed. Fennell went on to become regional director of Berger Paints (Jamaica) Limited, Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited and “Berger Paints (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited. According to Fields, another Jamaican Mervin Marshall, a former production manager, also played a significant role. With tears streaming down his face, Fields disclosed that the memories of the early days and recalling special moments with former employees such as Fennell
and Marshall were dear to him. “What I remember about Marshall was that he never allowed a bad tin of paint to get into the market.” Harry Roberts, who is also credited for his contribution, was described by Fields as “the best salesman on the team”. “Barbadian-born Roberts, who worked with the company for nine years, could really sell decorative, industrial, marine paints and vehicular finishes,” Fields noted. Lindi Hazell, secretary to the sales manager, and Yvonne Roberts, who was appointed to that post after
COLIN FIELDS, DIRECTOR, ACTING CHAIRMAN (GP)
Hazell left the company, were also singled out by Fields as key people. Both took care of coordinating the sale of paints. “Hazell dealt hands on with clients and was very good at dealing with them. She also spent about nine years with the company,” Fields added.
MANAGEMENT TEAM: (from left) Debbie Ann Barrow, assistant manager technology; Andrea Duguid, sales and marketing manager; Ritesh Doshi, general manager; Sandra Hope, finance manager and Shawn Prescod,assistant sales manager, export. Inset is Kenneth Thomas, operations manager. (GPs)
HAVING RECORDED “a good year” last year, general manager of Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited, Ritesh Doshi disclosed that the company’s vision is to be the complete solutions provider as far as consumers painting needs are concerned. According to Doshi, the current economic slowdown has been challenging for the company and its channel partners. The company, with its channel partners, has taken many initiatives which have helped it to keep its head above the water. He explained that initially Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited started by supplying paints to the local market. The company now exports
to almost all the Eastern Caribbean islands. It has been increasing its presence in the exports business and would like to replicate its success in the Barbados market in the export markets. “Our challenge is managing the logistics for the exports. Notwithstanding, our goal is to be the top paints player in all our export markets in the Eastern Caribbean” Doshi added. He pointed out that in the medium term, “Berger Paints will bring to our customers exciting products that are more decor oriented and environmentally friendly.” With the company’s aim to continue to
manufacture more environmentally friendly products, Doshi disclosed that Berger “is the only paints company in Barbados maintaining two ISO certifications: ISO 9001-2008 – a quality management system standard and ISO 1401-2004 – an environmental management system standard”. The Berger Paints head also added: “Innovation in our products, services and processes is what has helped us do well. We will continue with it. We are investing in new technologies that will provide better products to our consumers and help us manufacture the products more efficiently with lower environmental impact”.
4. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
COLIN FIELDS’ most memorable moment at Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited took place the very day he was applying for the post of sales representative. In his own words, Fields, who is now acting chairman, recalled: “My most memorable moment was when I was applying for the job. I was never told of the amount of business the company was turning over. “After one week had passed, I discovered it did not amount to very much and that in order for me to have a job I had to make business or go home. “The regional director was visiting Barbados and I asked him if I could sell vehicle refinishes. He, like me, was trying to sell anything we could. He asked me how much I think I could sell. Since I was new in the paints business I thought I was doing
JUNE 23, 2013
well when I told him $40 000 a year. He told me to go ahead, but instead of selling $40 000, I sold $1.5 million in paints.” Fields recalled that severe local competition back in the late sixties came from British Paints, while the export market was competing with more than ten paint manufacturing companies. Of the three Berger Paints companies, Fields, believes that while the Jamaican company will always be the largest of the three, “the Barbadian company has the most potential”. He is extremely pleased that modern technology now allows Berger Paints to produce over 30 000 different shades of paints, compared to the 900 shades which were being produced using a manual machine back in the early days.
JUNE 23, 2013
SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 5
ANDREA DUGUID, SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER. (GP)
Berger Paints provides the best quality paints in Barbados Mint Finish provides quality construction from start to finish using the best quality paints Together we form a partnership to serve you better. IN 1992 Andrea Duguid walked into Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited to undertake a special project and found herself being hired as the company’s first female sales representative with the task of selling Berger Paints products to local hardware stores. She then shifted gears when she added export sales to her portfolio. Two years later, Duguid left Berger Paints to return to work with a former employer, where she was also employed in local and export sales. However, it was her love for Berger Paints that witnessed her making a comeback six years later on December 1, 2006. She rejoined the company as exports manager and was promoted to the position of sales and marketing manager three years later. In addition to her responsibility for sales, Duguid is also responsible for the marketing and warehouse departments. With many years of sales experience under her belt, she is delighted that Berger Paints holds fast to the high quality standard for which the Berger brand is known. In her current post, her duties entail listening and communicating to customers in a way that translates into Berger being one step ahead of customers in responding to their stated and unstated needs. She noted: “We strive to continuously anticipate the needs of our clients and to supply them with quality products that add value to their lives such as Berger Royale, which was launched in June of last year. This offers consumers all that is expected of premium paint and more. Our aim is to delight customers without compromise. “We also take the health and safety of customers seriously in compliance with health and safety laws and developing environmentally friendly paint solutions.” Duguid further stressed: “We are mindful of the environment in which we live and the importance of its sustainability, which is why we so enthusiastically went after the ISO 14001 certification, which speaks of the quality of our environmental management systems, not only as it relates to the kinds of products we make but to their likely impact on the environment." She added that “all members of staff are on board with this initiative and take compliance to the standard very seriously.” Duguid is particularly pleased with the launching of Berger’s super premium products, including Berger Royale luxury interior paint, and Weather-Proof Ultra” an exterior paint which features a seven-year guarantee. According to her: “Many companies can offer all kinds of guarantees and not
necessarily be expected to live up to them. We can’t, we’re right here and will quite easily be held to account by our customers, so we are compelled to deliver on what we make as stated. “Our aim is to consistently provide products of high standards, based on what our customers have been telling us and continue to expect from us. “We are focused on satisfying the needs of our stakeholders and customers are the very core of our business. One word synonymous with the Berger brand is quality. I am working with the legacy created and built on by past employees such as Mr Colin Fields, during his tenure here at Berger. My task now is to continue building on that legacy of quality for future stakeholders.” She further noted: “Despite the economic downturn, increased operational costs and price increases in raw materials, we would never be tempted to compromise the quality standards which we hold so dear. We must continue to live up to the expectations of our customers by providing the quality they expect.” Duguid sees Berger not just as a paints manufacturer, but rather as a paint solutions provider. She noted that for this reason, Berger had invested heavily in the customer care department, to arm customers with the knowledge to better buying decisions such as knowing how things such as lighting, space, dimension and height could impact the look and feel of a room. She stressed that customers could even paint their own homes using the Berger Visualizer software that lets them see how different colours would look before buying any paint. This she said “is key to having satisfied customers, whose buying experience is such that they would view Berger as their paints solutions provider. “We want customers to be exposed to this kind of knowledge, because we want them to truly enjoy lasting beauty and protection in the Berger products they buy. At the end of the day it’s not ultimately about sales, but rather about satisfying and exceeding our customers' needs. A satisfied customer will always return again and again.” Duguid explained. She is cognizant that the company’s vision could not be realized without the entire team’s vision. “Many of the staff have been here for a long time and to a large extent are like a family,” Duguid noted. This she believed was key to Berger (Barbados) winning the company’s coveted top award this year for the first time. She further stated that “this could never have been achieved without a shared vision of success realized by the input of each and every individual employee”. She quipped: “Berger flows in the blood of every employee – past and present.”
Congratulations to Berger Paints on its th
50
6. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
JUNE 23, 2013
HIS GOAL is to have a first-class factory in terms of appearance and to provide excellent service at all times. Operations manager of Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited, Kenneth Thomas, is also bent on ensuring that this paints company adheres to all international best practices and that laws governing the health and safety of each employee are followed. A former employee of Berger Paints (Jamaica) Limited, Thomas joined the local company in 2005 and has over 33 years’ experience in all aspects of the paint industry. “My main challenge now is to improve the plant to a First World level and make KENNETH THOMAS (GP) certain that we adhere to all best practices,� Thomas said. “Having received our international environment and quality management standards certification has had a great impact on how we view our environment. The aim is for us to have a positive impact on the environment at all levels of business – from the BERGER PAINTS (Barbados) international standards. supplies we purchase to complete our product, Limited believes in maintaining high Hackett also holds the post of process right down to how the customer can environmental, health and safety standards. chemist. In this role she is responsible for be affected,� Thomas noted. To ensure the company’s operations are the day-to-day production activities, which He added: “We are constantly negotiating in keeping with international standards for include the scheduling of work and deals with suppliers to get the best raw business practices, Michelle Hackett was following up on all production requests. materials at the best prices, but we have appointed Berger Paints’ factor ISO According to her, “proper time to make constant checks to ensure this is being (International Organization for management is vital to our work achieved. Even though we are seeking Standardization) coordinator. at Berger Paints. The company can lose long-term relationships with suppliers, we must Hackett sees to it that the company business if we fail to work within proper ensure we are getting good prices.� maintains its two certified standards – ISO time frames. I must always be one step Thomas, who is responsible for purchasing, 9001-2008, a quality management ahead if our company is to service factory maintenance and security, also stressed standard and ISO 14001-2004, clients efficiently�. that “Berger Paints continuously seeks an environmental standard. In addition to making sure that the to produce environmentally friendly paints and She achieves this through internal entire production process is run smoothly, packing materials such as cans and labels,� and audits, keeping management abreast of any Hackett also handles any concerns relating reduce the use of plastic. To this end, the loopholes within the system and finding to health and accidents, organizes health company will soon be introducing various ways, together with management, and safety training, and keeps the company compounds which “will allow Berger Paints of closing the gap between what is usually compliant with various health standards to package its products to be more done and the required and regulations. environmentally friendly�.
Hackett maintains standards
MICHELLE HACKETT
(GP)
A Job Well Done!
The Barbados Manufacturers’ Association Salutes Berger Paints Barbados Ltd for 50 years of adding Lasting Beauty and Protection to Barbadian Homes
Suite 201, Building #8, Harbour Industrial Estate, St. Michael 5FM t 'BY &NBJM JOGP!CNB CC t 8FCTJUF XXX CNB CC
JUNE 23, 2013
SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 7
MERLENE FRASER, SHIPPING. (GP)
ASSISTANT SUPERVISOR,
ARMED WITH THE knowledge that the local market will not expand significantly, Berger Paints’ assistant sales manager Shawn Prescod is feverishly “seeking to develop new markets”. According to Prescod: “Barbados will not get any bigger. We will either develop new markets or work at increasing our local market share. Already we have started to make steps in these directions.” While his main focus is on the export market, Prescod also pointed out that these markets are affected by the current economic climate. “Some islands are affected moreso than others,” he said. He noted that while there is potential for growth in the export markets, competition is rife, with more
MERLENE FRASER, who manages the Shipping Division team at Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited, holds the post of assistant supervisor, shipping. Fraser joined Berger Paints on October 4, 1999, as a customs clerk and has spent the past seven years in her current position.
than nine other manufacturing companies scattered across the region, in addition to imported extraregional brands from as far as China, also seeking to increase their market share. He also acknowledged that a slowdown in the construction industry has affected sales throughout the regional, even though the hotel sector has been holding its own. Prescod further made it clear that “the use of decorative paints (for domestic purposes) is currently driving business in all markets”. An employee of Berger Paints since 1995, this former Combermere student is pleased with Berger’s progress in the area of new technology. He noted: “With our computerized
It is Fraser’s duty to coordinate all export orders from the warehouse and to liaise with various export customers in her bid to keep them abreast of their orders. She also works closely with the Customs and Excise Department as well as the shipping agents, negotiating all
tinting system, Berger can now produce all shades of colours, including those from most of the regional manufacturers and even leading North American paints as well. “This has been a significant step for us as there is no limit to the shades we can offer our clients. The paints industry has evolved to a great extent and our computerized rather than our manual system has put us in a position where any colour is no longer a possibility, but a reality.” Like his colleagues, Prescod has high regards for the green practices Berger Paints has adopted, particularly since the company’s achievement of the ISO certification that speaks to the environment. “We are doing our part to help the environment by manufacturing
export and import freighting. One of her key roles is that of seeking to secure the most competitive shipping rates, in her efforts to minimize the costs incurred by Berger’s export customers. Ensuring that products are adequately covered by insurance and following
environmentally friendly products, having eliminated the use of lead and mercury from our products over 15 years ago,” he stressed. In his role as assistant sales manager, Prescod’s duties include travelling abroad to meet with architects, building contractors, hotel maintenance and industrial personnel. He also conducts product information seminars and solicits orders of the company’s products from various shops and stores in the region. Prescod, who manages a staff of eight, also coordinates orders, liaises with the production and warehouse departments, various companies and shipping agencies, to ensure the smooth and correct delivery of the company’s products.
through on any insurance claims are also among Fraser’s duties. In addition, she works hand in hand with team members David Blaggrove, Cleophas Miller, Shawn Bowen, Valance Gilkes and various despatchers to ensure the company’s smooth shipping operations.
SHAWN PRESCOD, ASSISTANT SALES MANAGER. (GP)
www.barbadoscropoverfestival.com WE CONGRATULATE
BERGER PAINTS BARBADOS LIMITED ON THIS GOLDEN OCCASION OF THEIR
50TH ANNIVERSARY YOUR SERVICE HAS BEEN EXCEPTIONAL
EMAIL: WEB:
TEL: (246) 436-1474 FAX: (246) 429-8161 ADMIN@SRMARCHITECTS.COM WWW.SRMARCHITECTS.COM
8. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
JUNE 23, 2013
THE ACCOUNTS TEAM (Standing from left) Cheryl Hamshaw, Shamar Shorey, and Tameka Dawson. (Seated left) finance manager Sandra Hope and Charlene Farley. (GP)
THE RESPONSIBILITY of keeping tabs on Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited's overall finances falls into the capable hands of finance manager, Sandra Hope, who also holds the post of secretary to the board of directors. A graduate of the University of the West Indies, Hope holds a degree in economics and accounting. In addition to being a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, she is a member of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. She manages a staff of five – accounts supervisor Mona Brathwaite, accounts receivables clerk Tameka Dawson, accounts receivables clerk Charlene Farley, accounts payables clerk Shamar Shorey and payroll/disbursement clerk Cheryl Hamshaw. Hope is responsible for all aspects of financial accounting and management,
THIRTY-THREE years ago this month, Mona Brathwaite walked through the doors of Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited to fill the temporary post of accounts assistant. Six months later she was appointed accounts clerk and in 2004 was elevated to the position of accounts supervisor. Brathwaite is among Berger Paints’ longest serving employees and has therefore witnessed the company’s expansion and growth through the years. She is especially keenly cognizant of the fact that years ago, most management decisions were made by local managers. Today, with the world being viewed as a village, the company functions as one regional entity with the sharing of information, decisions and ideas between three sister companies in Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad. The aim is to ensure the company’s viability across the region. “We now do things as a group. It’s no longer Berger (Barbados), Berger
brewsters@caribsurf.com
reporting, budgeting and for providing business decision support to the management team. She is the custodian of the company’s assets and oversees the company’s internal and external auditing, which includes the preparation of the company’s financial statements. She also works with the management team to ensure that the needs of the customers are met. The former Queen’s College student joined Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited in 2006.
(Jamaica) or Berger (Trinidad). It’s Berger Caribbean!.” Brathwaite is proud to be a part of this group and is also thankful for the years of association with Berger Paints. She disclosed: “There has been tremendous growth throughout the past 34 years and we have manufactured many new products, especially during the past decade. We are also in a better position when it comes to bargaining because of our efforts to work together as a regional entity with the aim of meeting the needs of our customers across the region.” Brathwaite is responsible for the supervision of the accounts staff. She also ensures that accounting procedures are followed, maintains the general ledger and provides payroll assistance. In fact, she makes certain that reports are completed on time, thereby enabling the finance manager to prepare her financial reports within an adequate time frame.
JUNE 23, 2013
KAREN GRANT, MARKETING ASSISTANT. (GP)
SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 9 WEARING FOUR HATS is not easy for marketing assistant of Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited, Karen Grant, but she juggles her many roles and duties efficiently and effectively. With 12 years’ experience in marketing, Grant is an important link in the Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited’s chain. She oversees the company’s marketing and advertising needs in Barbados and the wider Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), supervises the retail store attendants and is also a link between Berger Paints and architects in Barbados and the OECS. She also assists with sales in Grenada and Dominica, provides spec sheets and samples for clients; and together with sales and marketing manager Andrea Duguid and assistant sales manager Shawn Prescod, plans and executes seminars throughout the islands. She is also the individual who provides customers with advice on where and how to use colours.
MARKETING ASSISTANT KAREN GRANT (second from left) with store attendants (from left) Rene Holligan, Jalisa Johnson, Julia Holdip, Joy-Anne Miller and Tremaine Benjamin. (GP)
She explained: “There are some customers who may want to paint their house or office, but have no idea how to start or what colours to choose. I assist by bringing life to what they imagine in their homes, using many years of experience gained in colour consultation as well as using the Berger Colour Visualizer, which allows customers to see how their colour choices will look, long before they even purchase the paint. Grant added: “This service provides the assurance of making colour choices customers will enjoy for years. Many customers are unsure about what colours to choose and often prefer to rely on the advice I give. At the end of the day, making our customers happy is my primary focus." While Grant admitted that “wearing many hats was not easy, she quipped: “I would not have it any other way.” Over the years, she has become an expert in her own right. Her successful experimentations with colour have also opened new doors and avenues to many individuals who previously settled for neutral or conservative paint choices. “We’ve always had colours around us but we’ve never utilized them like we are doing right now.
I believe that exposure to the international media has encouraged customers to be more adventurous with colours and features, So many homes now feature accent walls and more and more customers are daring to use unusual contributions and try new styles,” Grant explained. She said that she enjoyed seeing customers explore an endless range of colours for their homes, rather than settling for one colour. She has also put her mouth where her money is – so to speak – by painting her own office in teal (7543); lilac (AC138); shades of soft green (7546); and dark green (AC151). With much of her time spent travelling throughout the region, Grant has been able to appreciate the various cultures and to incorporate these into her selection of colours when dealing with various customers. She also seizes the odd moment to take a photo or two, as she has a great love for landscapes and the many scenes that typify and separate each island in which she works. While Grant is convinced that Berger Paints will increase its market share, she also believes there are markets which are ripe for penetration and that companies with a legacy such as that which Berger Paints has built over the last 50 years should never limit their endeavours. She summed up her past eight years with Berger Paints by stating: “I am extremely delighted to be a part of this company as it celebrates this significant milestone.”
10. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL JUNE 23, 2013
BUILDING #4 HARBOUR INDUSTRIAL PARK,
JUNE 23, 2013 SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 11
BARBADOS
JOHN LOVELL BUILDING,
BARBADOS
Email: psimpson@pbsarchitects.com
INTERIOR, INTERIOR,
BARBADOS
BARBADOS
WANSTEAD,
BARBADOS
JACKSON HOUSE,
KFC WARRENS,
ST SILAS,
BARBADOS
BARBADOS
CULTURAL CENTRE,
NEVIS
BARBADOS
ISLAND HIDEAWAYS,
BRITISH AMERICAN,
NEVIS
BARBADOS
10. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL JUNE 23, 2013
BUILDING #4 HARBOUR INDUSTRIAL PARK,
JUNE 23, 2013 SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 11
BARBADOS
JOHN LOVELL BUILDING,
BARBADOS
Email: psimpson@pbsarchitects.com
INTERIOR, INTERIOR,
BARBADOS
BARBADOS
WANSTEAD,
BARBADOS
JACKSON HOUSE,
KFC WARRENS,
ST SILAS,
BARBADOS
BARBADOS
CULTURAL CENTRE,
NEVIS
BARBADOS
ISLAND HIDEAWAYS,
BRITISH AMERICAN,
NEVIS
BARBADOS
12. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
IN 1985, and right out of high school, Debbie Ann Barrow joined the team at Berger Paints (Trinidad) Limited as a laboratory technician with responsibility for research and development. She went on to work in the Quality Control Department before returning to her former post three years later. Subsequently, she was elevated to the post of senior technician. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in management, Barrow was offered the post of technology officer at Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited. She was officially appointed to that post in January 2008. She was appointed to her current position in May 2012. Barrow’s main responsibility is that of ensuring that Berger Paints’ formulations are efficient and the company maintains the high quality standards for which it is known. In addition, she approves all products which are manufactured by Berger Paints in Barbados before they enter the market; approves all raw materials before they “get into the
JUNE 23, 2013
product;” investigates any complaints relating to the products and makes sure that such complaints do not affect the quality and standard of products in the market. In short, every product that Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited produces must meet Barrow’s approval before it is passed on to the retailer and ultimately to the consumer.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT in technology has always given Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited the edge over its competitors. And assistant manager technology, Debbie Ann Barrow, is always one step ahead in this field. Barrow said expanding and improving products involved the investment of thousands of dollars in a new grinding machine and new development testing equipment, geared at improving the company’s products, including Berger Trowel-On. She also stressed: “Our laboratory here in Barbados was small and we were forced to outsource development work in order
DEBBIE ANN BARROW, assistant manager, technology, and laboratory technician Kevin Shepherd. Inset is Vinchenso Murphy. (GP)
to introduce new products to the market. This meant the design input would go to Berger Paints (Jamaica) Limited and they would develop the products for us. “From April of this year, we started our own development in Barbados – beginning with waterbased products and have been working on a number of products with the aim to enhance and develop them even further. “Our aim is to offer consumers a comprehensive line of quality products from primer to top coat.” She explained that to ensure Berger Paints maintained high standards and remained ahead
of its competitors in the industry, a significant amount of time was spent benchmarking competitors’ products. Barrow further disclosed that for Berger Paints to keep ahead and to embark on further development, the company’s staff had gone through rigorous retraining, and a laboratory assistant was hired so technicians would be free to concentrate on development work. “Training is ongoing in this field,” explained Barrow. “As time changes, technologies change, and in order for us to be competitive and stay ahead of the game, we have to keep testing our
products and materials,” she noted. Barrow added, “We recognize that customers are looking for value added to their purchases; and as their needs change and they become more conscious of the environment, we at Berger seek to offer solutions such as minimizing the volatile organic compounds (VOC) in paint, so that today, Berger 303 and Everglow our flagship brands, are now VOC compliant. “We are witnessing changes in some areas of the paints industry, and are ensuring by our investment and focus in research and development that we will not be left behind," Barrow declared.
JUNE 23, 2013
SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 13
RONALD CONLIFFE, SALES REPRESENTATIVE, 44 YEARS. (GP)
RICHARD WATERMAN, RAW MATERIALS STOREMAN, 34 YEARS. (GP)
CHERYL HAMSHAW, ACCOUNTS CLERK, 34 YEARS. (GP)
MISSING are accounts supervisor, Mona Brathwaite (33 years), and tinter, Hugh Mahon (34 years).
DAVID BLAGGROVE, MESSENGER/DRIVER, 36 YEARS. (GP)
PAUL KNIGHT, SENIOR FILLER 34 YEARS. (GP)
14. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
LORISTON WAITHE, SENIOR FILLER, 28 YEARS.
JUNE 23, 2013
(GPS)
ALFRED WOODALL, JUNIOR LABELLER, 27 YEARS.
IAN FRENCH, SENIOR SHADER, 26
YEARS.
PHILIP PARRIS, SENIOR MACHINE OPERATOR, 26 YEARS.
RONALD BRADSHAW, JANITOR, 26 YEARS.
MISSING is Cleophas Miller, Warehouse Supervisor, (26 years).
ANTHONY HERBERT,
TECHNICAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE, 25 YEARS.
VANCE HINDS, SALES 24 YEARS.
REPRESENTATIVE,
PATRICK ‘PATO’ WORRELL, SENIOR LABELLER, 22
YEARS.
PETER BRATHWAITE, SUPPLY CHAIN CLERK, 21 YEARS.
LEON HAREWOOD,
SENIOR MACHINE OPERATOR, 21 YEARS.
JUNE 23, 2013
SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 15
SALES DEPARTMENT (from left) Shawn Prescod, Merlene Fraser, Ronald Conliffe, Anthony Herbert, Sales and marketing Manager Andrea Duguid, Vance Hinds, Sacha Harvey and Rodney Wilkinson. Inset is Kimeyal Boyce. (GP)
ADMIN. DEPARTMENT
CASHIERS (from left), Shana Douglin, Uralie Lashley and Lydia Turton. (GP)
WAREHOUSE STAFF
seated: General manager Ritesh Doshi and executive assistant Marieta Alleyne. Standing Jacqueline BestCorbin (receptionist) and David Blaggrove (messenger/driver).
(from left), Alvin Brewster, assistant sales manager; Shawn Prescod, Sales and marketing manager; Andrea Duguid, Anthony Cheeseman and Valance Gilkes. Standing at back is chief of security Francis Fergusson. Inset is Shawn Bowen. (GP)
PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT (from left), Arturo Bishop, Karan Joseph, Peter Brathwaite, Michelle Hackett, Adrienne Adamson and Robert Armstrong. (GP)
IIMEMBERS of the factory staff. Inset is operations manager Ken Thomas.
(GP)
16. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL
HOUSE PAINT has gone through a myriad of changes since its inception. Human beings have been making paint from as far back as 38 000 B C Back then paint made from soot, earth and animal fat was used to decorate cave walls. In ancient Egyptian society (315031 B C), ground glass or semi-precious stones, lead and earth were combined with animal blood, oil or fat. Other ingredients used were: red and yellow ochre, haematite, manganese oxide and charcoal. The Egyptians created six colours by mixing oil or fat with lead, earth, animal blood, ground glass or semi-precious stones. Their palatte included white, red, yellow, green, black and blue. The house painting profession was evident as early as the 1200s. In the 14th century, house painters in England organized themselves in guilds to protect trade secrets and standardize the industry. They organized themselves into two groups – the Painters Company and the Stainers Company. Years later the two merged to become the Worshipful Company of Painters and Stainers, and their paint mixing and application skills were regarded as closely held secrets. By the 17th century, modest living meant avoiding loud displays of joy, wealth and vanity. House painting was considered a sign of immodesty. In 1630, a Charleston preacher was charged with sacrilege for painting the interior of his home. Efforts to restrain the demand for house paint became a challenge as those in the industry sought to develop and expand the craft. Paint is a dispersion of small solid particles, including pigments, binders and resin, suspended in a liquid medium. Applied to a surface, this liquid dries to become a solid, protective film, which serves to beautify while protecting the surface. A late Victorian writer observed that the coming of a painter to a house was cause for celebration. From the 17th century until the 19th century, oil and water were the primary carriers used in the production of paint. Ceilings and plaster were generally painted in
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water-based paint, while oil was used for wood trim and metal. Some homeowners wanted walls with different effects such as marbling wood effects and many a painter would fulfil such a request. At this point, pigment and oil were mixed by hand to make a stiff paste. Paint production transformed dramatically in the United States of America in the 1700s when the first American paint mill opened in Boston. In 1718, Englishman Marshall Smith invented a machine for grinding of colours which improved the grinding of pigment in greater quantities, more efficiently and more quickly than the hand method could permit. The invention of the paint can in the 1860s stimulated enormous growth in the paint industry. After 1875, factory-made paints meant more consumers could paint and decorate. With the rise of steam power at the turn of the 19th
century, grinding mills began to be powered by steam. At the same time, the guild of painters became a network of trade unions and this same period witnessed the mass production of paint using the cheap binding agent linseed oil. Early paints did not dry flat and evenly. Levelling was in fact a property much sought after later on; but until well into the 19th century, oil paints and whitewashes showed signs of brush marks. The recommended method of application then was and still is to pull the brush in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Such fashion finishes are in demand across the world and faux finishes and stencils are again trendy. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, a four to five coat application was typical; however, a nine-coat application was not uncommon at the end of the century for finishes in some of the grand mansions. Generally, they were given a final glaze finish. Another paint innovation of the early 19th century was the use of flatter oil paints. This was achieved by adding more turpentine to the oil, which served to thin and to flatten. It resulted in a velvety look which became popular in the 1830s and is today the desired sheen of more upscale homes across the Caribbean. Wherever decorative plaster was present, distempers were the paint coatings of choice. Being both thin and readily removable with hot water, they permitted the delicate plaster mouldings and elaborate floral or botanical elements to be protected and tinted but not obscured by the build-up of many layers of paint over time. Flat paints traditionally are not dirt resistant and are therefore harder to keep clean as well as to wash. For this reason Victorian homes would be trimmed in high gloss finishes, while flat paints would be reserved for ceilings and walls.
• Continued on next page.
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SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 17
by KAREN GRANT COLOURS AFFECT US more than we realize. Understanding their ability to add character and create moods is vital when deciding which combinations to use on interior and exterior surfaces. Whether your preference is vibrant, cool, neutral, conservative, modern or glamorous, striking effects can be achieved using the right combination. Berger Colour World Tinting System offers endless possibilities in combinations to create the desired effect in every room and space. Here are some examples of the effects of colour: Pink – This soft side of red, traditionally considered subtle and subdued, can be lively, hot or trendy, and is most accepted as unconditional love — nurturing, comforting and always there. Vibrant pinks are no longer considered little girls’ colours and are nowadays used as accent walls to add an appealing element of sophistication.
Blue – Associated with tranquillity, openness and optimism; the colour of the sky, the ocean, and mountains, blue complements a wide range of colours, creating a feeling of nurturing and ease. Light to medium blues create a calm, relaxed feeling, whereas darker blues can evoke dignified and regal feelings in a space. Blue creates a sense of calm and relaxation to both interior and exterior spaces.
Red – This most powerful colour, commonly associated with flowers and fruits can be rich and intense, romantic and passionate or hot, flamboyant and can definitely make a statement. Chosen with any colour, red adds energy and excitement and never goes unnoticed. Tones of red are often used on focus walls in many dining rooms to encourage social interaction and appetite.
Yellow – This colour is strongly linked to sunshine and is considered to be the happiest colour in the spectrum. It is often associated with warmth, action and joy, and is strongly linked to flowers. Yellow marks an area as a “day space”, when combined with any other colours. Lighter shades are more soothing, whereas brighter tones are playful and more suitable for graphic decors. While not necessarily conveying energy or intellect on an exterior surface, yellow can add a sense of cleanliness, freshness and happiness to an interior space.
Green – Often associated with nature, new growth and trees, yellow-greens make a striking combination with any colour, creating a sense of cheer and a carefree atmosphere. Use deeper greens sparingly as accent colours on both interior and exterior surfaces.
• From Page 16. In the 20th century a successful substitute, titanium dioxide (TiO2), was patented. The most common binder in interior paints was oil. Chalk was sometimes added to water-based paints to help bind the pigment particles together. Other common binders included hide glue and gelatine. The fluid component was termed the “carrier” or “medium”,
because it carried the pigment. Historically, carriers included turpentine in oil paints and water in water-based paints, but other vehicles were sometimes used such as milk in casein paints. Even more options are available today with the movement towards more environmentally friendly products such as Berger Royale, designed to protect while having minimal negative impact on the environment.
White – Generally considered pure, clean, bright and new, too much white on an exterior can be boring. When used as the primary colour include other colours to add personality and drama. Brown – Rich, sophisticated, warm and comforting, brown is frequently associated with earth, Mother Nature and warmth. Brown remains unaffected by passing fads and styles used in combination with any colour.
Violet – The colour of royalty, violet also has a mystical side. Use any shade of violet to infuse a sense of luxury in the air. Violet also has a meditative quality that makes it a colour of clarity and foresight. Use lighter shades to create a soothing, calming feel to a room. Use darker shades to accent the décor of interior and exterior surfaces.
18. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL MY INTERACTION with Berger Paints spans two decades. The evolution and transformation witnessed during this time has been more than remarkable. In fact, the extraordinary results obtained from the enduring quality and the large array of colour creations contribute greatly to the competitive advantage held by Berger. Kudos to your timely decision to embrace the go green concept. Yet another powerful testimony of your exemplary leadership, outstanding achievements and commitment to preserve our fragile environment. Congratulations on 50 years of dedicated service to our region! – Mitch G. Gumbs, Frigate Bay, St Kitts
JUNE 23, 2013 CONGRATS TO the Berger team from Gordon Ashby Architects. We appreciate the quality and range of your products and your excellent service. Thanks for all your help over the years. – Gordon Ashby
WHEN I WAS choosing a paint brand, my architect Peter Thompson from Peterson Architects Inc. strongly recommended the Royale Silk line from Berger Paints. It was a little more expensive than the regular paint but was worth every cent. It looks fantastic. We moved in three years ago and it still looks like we painted yesterday. There are no signs of wear and this paint cleans so easily. Everyone who visits the house loves the richness of the colours, especially the purple wall. Thanks Berger! Thanks Royale Silk! – Andrea Thompson
FROM THE BEGINNING of our business association to the present, the service received from Berger Paints has been of an excellent standard. Representatives have been friendly, professional and eager to ensure that our requirements are met to our satisfaction and on time. It has surely been a pleasure doing business with you over the years and we look forward to continuing our business relationship with you in the years to come. – SRM ARCHITECTS LTD
GEO. F. HUGGINS has been the local representative for Berger for over 25 years and Berger products ultimately form an integral part of our company’s exclusive product offering in Grenada. Berger’s leading brands and specialist lines of products have undisputedly set several benchmarks across the industry when it comes to quality, variety and being environmentally friendly. – Denise Langine-Park, manager, corporate marketing, Geo. F. Huggins & Co. (Grenada) Ltd
ROBERTSON WARD ASSOCIATES LIMITED has been providing architectural services in Barbados and the Caribbean for over 50 years. The company has carried out a considerable number of projects ranging from residential to large resorts. For many of these projects, Berger Paints (Barbados) Limited has been our supplier and we have always been satisfied with the products and service rendered. We would therefore have no hesitation in recommending Berger Paints in any capacity. – Robertson Ward Associates Limited
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SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 19
MARK MASSIAH of the National Cultural Foundation receiving a donation of paint for Crop Over Festival 2012. (GP)
OMOWALE STEWART painting a mural at the launch of Crop Over 2013. (GP)
BERGER DONATED TREES to the Lawrence T. Gay Primary School on World Environment Day 2012. (GP)
BERGER STAFF TEAM celebrating their win of the Best Advertising Concept in the 2010 Nation Fun Walk. (GP) ONE OF 27 BUS SHELTERS across Barbados maintained by Berger (Barbados) Limited. (GP)
PROVIDING SUPPORT to the Kiwanis’ Silver Dollar Drive. (GP)
Printed and Published by THE NATION PUBLISHING CO. LTD, Nation House, Fontabelle, St Michael, Barbados. Telephone (246) 430-5400