january 2017

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Going Underground

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Art And Energy

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Endeavour Magazine | 3

First things first, Happy New Year from myself and the team here at Endeavour Magazine. After a 2016 which might best be described as memorable, now comes the opportunity for all of us to wipe the

slate clean and start afresh.

Whether your 2017 will be a year of new beginnings, or instead a year to build upon the success of the one before, undoubtedly it will be a year of great change. The rule book has been well and truly torn up and the status quo toppled, and inevitably this will create ripples for global business – the size and scale of which are yet unknown.

Of course, there is every reason to be optimistic about the coming 12-months. While change, in the form of political earthquakes, might be painful, it helps to shake-off the complacency and deadwood which accumulates – a view shared by Murray Williams, the CEO of South African fleet management giant, Eqstra Fleet Management, which we had the pleasure of featuring once more in this month’s magazine.

Alongside Eqstra Fleet, this month’s issue of Endeavour Magazine also caught up with the likes of Norwegian hydropower operators, Helgeland & Kraft, who have successfully blended power generation with striking aesthetics; Barbados Port In., which over the past decade has made the painstaking transition from a second-rate port operator into a global-level player, and arguably the best in the Caribbean. And then there is Ashnil Hotels and Marasa Africa, whom we featured as part of a focus on the East African tourism sector – these two thrilling companies are rightfully recognised as leaders in their field, when it comes to the delivery of luxury safari holidays.

And let’s not forget Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co., which is currently engaged in a vast metro build project under the bustling streets of Singapore, and C.O. Williams Construction of Barbados, and Nexus Group of Namibia.

As always, we hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue as we enjoyed making it.

DJAMIL BENMEHIDI

EDITOR’S NOTE

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Right now, near you, someone needs blood. Not just any blood, a perfect match. That’s why Cristiano Ronaldo donates blood. Join him and Abbott to donate now. You could save a life. BE THE 1TM.

Right now, near you, someone needs blood. Right now, near you, someone needs blood. Not just any blood, a perfect match. That’s why Cristiano Ronaldo donates blood. Join him and Abbott to donate now. You could save a life. BE THE 1TM.

Sign up to donate at BeThe1Donor.com

BE THE 1 and related brand marks are marks of Abbott Laboratories in various jurisdictions.ADD-00056592

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FEATURES

4 | Endeavour Magazine

CONTENTS

21 Limegrove Lifestyle Center

13 Eqstra Fleet Management

13 Eqstra Fleet Management Embracing Change21 Limegrove Lifestyle Center The First Word In Caribbean Chic29 Ashnil Hotels Ltd The Sun Shines On Everyone35 COVER STORY Helgeland Kraft A Fusion Of Art And Energy43 Barbados Port Inc The Maritime Gateway To The Caribbean51 COVER STORY STEC Going Underground61 C.O. Williams Construction Ltd Building Barbados67 Island Grill Serving Up Great Business Acumen75 Marasa Africa Walk On The Wild Side81 Nexus Group Exceed And Deliver87 INSS-POL Sp. Z o.o. Maintaining A Steely Gaze

ARTICLES


87 INSS-POL Sp. Z o.o.

29 Ashnil Hotels Ltd

3 Editor’s Note6 Business Headlines Middle East Africa Asia Americas Europe

Amazing World26 Cryonics - Preserving Our Future 40 Project Nourished72 Relampago Del Catatumbo, Eternal Storm

Automotives56 Citroen C4 Grand Picasso


BUSINESS HEADLINES

MIDDLE EASTWORLD’S NEW TALLEST TOWER IN DUBAI UNDERGOES GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION

The world’s new tallest tower coming up in Dubai – The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour – has undergone an extensive geotechnical investigation. Dutch firm Fugro, which provides geotechnical assistance, was contracted by Emaar Properties to conduct the investigation. Construction on the tower was launched last month, and when completed in 2020, it will beat the Burj Khalifa (828 metres) as the tallest building in the world. However, the exact height of the new building has not yet been disclosed.

Because of the building’s height and design, ground engineering is “critical” in the programme schedule and foundation design, Fugro said in a statement.

IRAN SHIPPING LINES CLOSE TO US$650 MILLION KOREAN ORDER

Iran’s state-owned shipping company is in advanced talks with Korean shipyard Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. for a $650 million order of container ships and tankers, people involved in the talks said, marking Iran’s return to the international market after a decade.

The deal may be announced as early as this week and is part of plans by Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines and Iranian Offshore Oil Co., a subsidiary of state oil company National Iranian Oil Co., to spend a total of up to $2.5 billion to modernise their fleets. A Hyundai Heavy spokesman said that Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines, or IRISL, was in talks with the shipyard over a 10-ship order, but gave no details.

Iranian shipping companies haven’t modernised their fleets since 2006, when the United Nations imposed wide-ranging sanctions against Tehran over its uranium-enrichment program. The sanctions began to be gradually lifted in January.

SHELL SIGNS PRELIMINARY IRAN OIL DEAL DESPITE UNCERTAINTY OVER TRUMP

Royal Dutch Shell PLC on Wednesday said it had signed an agreement with Iran’s state oil company to explore future projects, signalling that giant energy companies are unlikely to be deterred by President-elect Donald Trump’s pledge to undo the Iran nuclear deal. Shell is the largest company to wade back into Iran since the U.S. and other world powers lifted sanctions in January in exchange for Tehran putting strict limits on its nuclear program. The British-Dutch firm follows France’s Total SA, which last month signed a US$4.8 billion deal to develop a large natural-gas field in Iran and

now is negotiating an oil deal. The agreement could help open a new chapter in the turbulent history of Iran’s oil sector, which has been marked by waves of nationalisations and successive sanctions. Shell halted most of its activities in Iran in 2010.

SAUDI’S KING SALMAN ACKNOWLEDGES RESTRUCTURING MEASURES ARE ‘PAINFUL’

King Salman told Saudis that he recognised that economic restructuring measures adopted in response to a sharp drop in oil prices were painful, but said they were necessary to avoid long-term damage to the country. “The state has sought to deal with these changes … through a variety of measures to restructure the economy, some of which may be painful in the short run but ultimately aim to protect the economy of your country from worse problems,” he told the consultative Shura Council.

“Similar circumstances have happened before over the past three decades, forcing the state to cut its expenses, but it emerged from them, thanks be to God, with a strong economy and continuous and increasing growth,” Salman said.

In a drastic step to save money, the king in September ordered salaries of ministers and Shura Council members to be cut by 20 and 15 per cent, and scaled back financial perks for public sector employees.

SAUDI ARAMCO SAYS WILL INVEST US$6-7BN THROUGH NABOR AND ROWAN JOINT VENTURES

State-owned oil giant Saudi Aramco has announced two new joint ventures with US-listed Nabors Industries and Rowan Companies focussing on onshore and offshore drilling in the kingdom. Together they will invest $6-7bn to purchase onshore rigs and offshore jack-ups manufactured in Saudi Arabia by Aramco’s still to be formed manufacturing joint ventures. Aramco said these ventures would create 5,000 jobs and aim for an 80 per cent Saudisation rate. They are expected to begin operations in the second quarter of 2017.

The onshore venture with Nabor will combine the two companies’ existing onshore drilling operations in the kingdom and cover current and future onshore oil and gas fields. It will initially own 15 contributed rigs, of which five will be from Aramco and 10 from Nabors, and manage the remaining Nabor-owned rigs in the kingdom bringing the total to 41.

“The total value of initial contributions from both partners through domestic operations, assets, equipment and capital is estimated at over US$1bn,” Aramco said.


AFRICA

AGRI SA CALLS FOR DONATIONS TO ASSIST DROUGHT-RAVAGED FARMERS

While recent widespread rains have brought some relief‚ “parts of the Northern Cape‚ Western Cape‚ North West‚ Limpopo and the Free State are still in the grip of the worst drought this decade”.

That is according to Agri SA‚ which on Monday reiterated its call for donations to assist needy farmers. Agri SA president Johannes Möller said: “Agri SA alone cannot meet the farmers’ needs and therefore we call urgently for financial contributions.”

He said that while the agricultural association had “launched various initiatives to provide needy farmers countrywide with drought relief”‚ the “time has now come for the government to provide further assistance to commercial and small-scale farmers to help them survive”.

“The shortage of funds has now resulted in Agri SA being unable to provide further assistance and we therefore call urgently on the private sector to make further contributions to the Agri SA drought-relief fund.”

FORMER CEO JOHAN VAN ZYL IS NEW SANLAM CHAIR AFTER PATRICE MOTSEPE DECLINES

Dr Johan van Zyl will take over the reins from Desmond Smith as chairperson of financial services group Sanlam when Smith retires in June 2017, the group announced.

The board had nominated business mogul and current deputy chairperson Patrice Motsepe to succeed Smith. However, he proposed Van Zyl, a former CEO of the group, for the position.

Smith has been chairperson of the group since 2010 after serving as its MD from 1993. He is also the chairperson of Reinsurance Group of America and holds several other company directorships.

Van Zyl is the current CEO of Ubuntu-Botho as well as the joint CEO of African Rainbow Capital. During his tenure as CEO of Sanlam he was credited for transforming the group from a primarily South African life insurer to a multinational diversified financial services group. He currently sits on the supervisory board of Steinhoff International Holdings and is a director on several other boards.

OIL FIRMS IN US$100BN COST CUTS FOR AFRICACapital investment in the oil and gas industry in sub-Saharan

Africa has been cut by US$100 billion over the next five years, according to Wood Mackenzie’s latest report on upstream activity.

“Exploration cuts in the region will also contribute to a longer-term production slump as explorers have shied away from greenfield prospects, in favour of appraising known discoveries. However, the confirmation of the giant Owowo discovery in deepwater Nigeria shows the quality of resources Sub-Saharan Africa still has to offer,”Femi Oso, senior research manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Wood Mackenzie, said this month.

Wood Mackenzie expects a slow recovery for exploration. “Governments in sub-Saharan Africa need to revive the upstream oil and gas industry by offering attractive fiscal terms rather than look to increase state revenues in the current climate,” Oso said.

However, the biggest upstream success story in sub-Saharan Africa continues to be East Africa’s emergence as a gas region of global importance and notably Tanzania.

With over 168 Tcf of gas found and limited regional demand, East Africa is on track to become a major global LNG supplier and various export projects are awaiting final investment decision.

KENYA SIGNS SH11 BILLION FUNDING DEAL AT ONGOING ACP-EU MEETING

Kenya signed finance agreements with the European Union worth Sh11 billion in the sidelines of the ongoing African Caribbean Pacific and EU (ACP-EU) parliamentary conference.

The government will use Sh5.3 billion to support productive, adapted and market integrated smallholder agriculture in Kenya. A further Sh3.6 billion will be used in the programme for Legal Empowerment and Aid Delivery, while Sh2.1 billion will go towards the Ending Drought Emergencies Strategy.

The strategy is the government’s commitment to end suffering because of the drought by 2022. The plan was developed jointly with development partners and focuses on the 23 most vulnerable counties in Kenya. President Uhuru Kenyetta witnessed the signing of the agreements.


ASIAJAPAN’S SOFTBANK INVESTS US$1 BILLION IN SATELLITE STARTUP ONEWEB

Japan’s SoftBank Group Corp. is pumping US$1 billion into OneWeb Ltd., which aims to use hundreds of satellites to provide internet access in rural areas and developing countries, in a fundraising round that values the startup at roughly US$2.5 billion.

OneWeb’s current investors are also giving $200 million in the latest fundraising, the company announced. The fresh funds ensure that OneWeb has the firepower to build and launch more than 640 satellites by the beginning of the next decade. The company’s goal is to offer fast internet-via-space connectivity to everything from vehicles in urban areas to rural homes in the U.S. and schools in developing countries.

SoftBank, an early financial backer of some of the largest internet companies on both sides of the Pacific, is set to become the fledgling company’s largest shareholder with a roughly 40% stake, said Greg Wyler, OneWeb’s founder, executive chairman and chief architect.

ASIAN FIRMS PLEDGE LOYALTY TO PARIS ACCORD ON CLIMATE

Top companies in Asia say they are standing behind the Paris climate accord reached last year, regardless of what path the U.S. takes. That includes at least one major producer of palm oil, a product whose plantations are often associated with deforestation and air pollution caused by the burning of land to make way for them.

“We will continue to emphasize our priorities and keep climate at the top of the agenda,” John Hartmann, chief executive Cargill Tropical Palm Holdings Pte. Ltd., wrote in an email.

A subsidiary of U.S. commodities giant Cargill Inc., with palm-oil plantations in Indonesia, Cargill Tropical Palm says it remains committed to efforts to prevent deforestation and invest in renewable energy sources.

A number of other corporate leaders, from Australia to Japan, said they also would stand firm on plans to reduce their carbon footprints, even as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has created uncertainty about the climate-change accord formed last year in

Paris and now agreed to by nearly 200 nations. Top executives with many big American corporations also have said they would follow through on their plans to shrink their carbon profiles, even with Mr. Trump’s sceptical view of some Obama administration environmental policies.

CHINA’S MEDTRONIC FINE MAY SIGNAL HEALTH-CARE-COST CRACKDOWN

The Chinese government’s punishment of a medical-equipment supplier for price-fixing could be the opening to wider scrutiny of health-care costs.

The National Development and Reform Commission this week fined Medtronic PLC 118.5 million yuan (US$17 million) for refusing to let dealers and distributors discount prices for the company’s insulin pumps, pacemakers and other medical devices. It said this raised costs to patients.

This was the first time the commission had fined a medical-device maker, according to the state broadcaster CCTV. The news was widely covered in official media—usually a sign of a major investigative push.

Medtronic is just the “tip of the iceberg,” according to the China Economic Herald, the commission’s official publication, which reports that 100 pharmaceutical and medical-device companies are under the microscope. A spokesman for Dublin-based Medtronic said the company accepted the decision and would pay the fine.

CYRUS MISTRY RESIGNS FROM FIVE TATA COMPANY BOARDSA battle for control of the Tata Group, India’s largest conglomerate

with more than US$100 billion a year in sales, took an unexpected turn as Cyrus Mistry, the ousted head of the group’s holding company, resigned from the boards of five of the group’s biggest companies.

Mr. Mistry gave up his board positions at Tata Motors Ltd., Tata Steel Ltd., Indian Hotels Co., Tata Chemicals Ltd. and Tata Power Ltd., retreating from his earlier plans to let shareholders decide his fate. He pledged to continue his battle from outside the group.

Mr. Mistry has raised governance issues at the conglomerate, which sells everything from tea to software to Land Rover vehicles. His father’s construction company, Shapoorji Pallonji & Co., is a major shareholder in holding company Tata Sons Ltd.

Tata Sons was dismissive of Mr. Mistry’s announcement. “Mr. Mistry’s resignation is a deliberate strategy on his part, knowing fully well that the overwhelming majority of the shareholders were not in support of his actions,” the company said.


AMERICAS

GM TO LAY OFF NEARLY 1,300 WORKERS AT DETROIT PLANT, CUT PRODUCTION AT SEVERAL FACTORIES

General Motors Co. said it would lay off nearly 1,300 workers at an assembly plant in Detroit beginning in March and temporarily cut production at several other factories next month, the latest auto maker adjusting to softening demand after a seven-year growth spurt.

GM disclosed in a state regulatory filing Monday that it would lay off about 600 regular workers from its Detroit-Hamtramck factory, where workers assemble the Chevrolet Volt, Buick LaCrosse and other cars. About another 670 temporary workers also will be let go, according to the filing.

Earlier Monday, GM confirmed that it will cut car production at five U.S. assembly plants for one to three weeks in January, mostly to reduce swollen inventories. The nation’s largest auto maker by volume entered December with about 873,000 vehicles on dealer lots, 26% more than the same time a year earlier and the highest mark for the month since 2007, according to researcher WardsAuto.com.

The move underscores the slowing pace of retail sales at auto dealerships and weak demand for passenger cars in particular, as consumer preference shifts to crossover SUVs and pickup trucks.

FINANCIALS RALLY WILL CONTINUE, WITH BIG BANKS THE BIG WINNERS, EXPERT SAYS

Financial stocks are going to continue soar thanks to an improving economy, less regulation and higher interest rates, experts told CNBC.

“This is all about credibility and confidence … as the economy continues to recover, financials are going to be a big part of it, especially loan growth,” said Brian Belski, chief investment strategist at BMO Capital Markets.

Plus, the sector usually trades in tandem with the market, but this latest bull market has not been led by financials, he pointed out.

“We think there is still gross, gross underperformance of financials to get caught up on.” In fact, Belski continued to say he believes S&P 500 financials have more than 30 percent higher to go in terms of reaching any kind of fair value.

FED HAS 8 BIGGEST US BANKS SHIFT LOSS BURDEN TO INVESTORS

The eight biggest U.S. banks will be required to build new cushions against losses that would shift the burden to investors. The action by the Federal Reserve was the latest bid by regulators to reduce the chances of future taxpayer bailouts.

The Fed governors led by Chair Janet Yellen voted 5-0 to lay down the new requirements. The mega-banks must bulk up their capacity to absorb financial shocks by issuing equity or long-term debt equal to certain portions of total bank assets. The idea is that the cost of a huge bank’s failure would fall on investors in the bank, not on taxpayers.

The Fed action comes as Washington braces for changes to the 2010 law that reined in Wall Street after the financial crisis and the Great Recession. President-elect Donald Trump urged during his campaign that the Dodd-Frank law be dismantled, and his transition team has set that as a goal. Republicans, who overwhelmingly opposed Dodd-Frank, will control the White House and Congress in January and see an opening to go after key parts of the law — such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

“Today we are putting into place one of the last critical safeguards that make up the core of our ... reform efforts” following the financial crisis, Yellen said at the start of the meeting. “These banks must bear the costs their failure would impose on the financial system and the economy.”

EUROPEBP AGREES US$1BN DEAL FOR STAKE IN MASSIVE AFRICAN OFFSHORE GASFIELDS

BP has agreed its second huge deal in days with the energy giant revealing a near US$1bn investment in gas fields off Northwest Africa. The company has signed deals with Kosmos Energy to take a 62pc stake in the company’s exploration blocks of gas fields off Mauritania and a 33.5pc holding in those off Senegal. BP will also operate the Mauritania fields.

It is thought the 33,000 square kilometres covered by the deal could contain as much as 50 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas, as well as more than 1bn barrels of oil in deepwater reserves. At the upper end of the estimates, the gas reserves would be enough to fuel the UK for two decades.

The Kosmos deal, which will expand BP’s presence in liquified natural gas (LNG), follows a tie-up with the Abu Dhabi government over the weekend.

EUROPEAN COMMISSION ‘EXCEEDED ITS POWERS’ OVER IRELAND APPLE TAX RULING

Ireland has accused the European Commission of exceeding its powers in a legal challenge to the ruling that Apple must return billions in unpaid taxes.

The Ministry of Finance said that the competition watchdog, which ordered Apple to pay back €13bn, had interfered with its sovereignty.

Ireland is appealing the Commission’s ruling which found that the tech giant enjoyed a special deal allowing it to pay 0.0005pc tax in 2014 - 50 euros for every one million of profit.

The Irish Department of Finance submission said: “The Commission has exceeded its powers and interfered with national tax sovereignty.

“The Commission has no competence, under State aid rules, unilaterally to substitute its own view of the geographic scope and extent of the member state’s tax jurisdiction for those of the member state itself.

“The purpose of the State aid rules is to tackle State interventions which confer a selective advantage. The State aid rules by their nature cannot remedy mismatches between tax systems on a global level.”

CRUNCH TIME FOR TROUBLED MONTE DEI PASCHI AS SURVIVAL RESTS ON SAVERS

The world’s oldest bank has made a last-ditch attempt to convince tens of thousands of ordinary Italian savers to help it escape state hands.

Monte dei Paschi, Italy’s third biggest bank, wants 40,000 retail investors to take part in a complex €5bn (£4.18bn) bailout, which was almost derailed by the country’s recent constitutional referendum.

The Tuscan lender said it is pressing ahead with a highly-ambitious plan to persuade private investors to convert their bonds into shares.

A “no” vote for the proposed reforms of Italy’s prime minister, Matteo Renzi, triggered his resignation and a bout of market uncertainty, forcing Monte dei Paschi and its battalion of advisers to temporarily halt the fund-raising. It has been ordered to clean up its balance sheet after failing European bank stress tests last summer. However, despite the volatility, the European Central Bank turned down a request for further time to complete the deal, forcing new boss Marco Morelli to try to drum up the cash from private investors in just a matter of days.


When Eqstra Fleet Management (EFM) first opened its doors for business in 1984, the idea of fleet management was not so much in its infancy as it was a foreign concept.

WRITTEN BY DJAMIL BENMEHIDI

EMBRACING CHANGE


EQSTRA FLEET MANAGEMENTWWW.EFM.CO.ZA27 (0)11 458 7555

EQSTRA FLEET MANAGEMENT

As Eqstra Fleet Management’s growth over the past three decades has shown, times have changed. Today, fleet management is a multi-billion dollar global industry, upon

which countless thousands of companies around the world rely. Full vehicle ownership, while common in business, is now no less common than the adoption of vehicle hire finance packages. Additionally, and quite sensibly it should be added, the management of vehicle fleets and their drivers is now outsourced to companies like Eqstra Fleet where possible, so as to ensure their effective use and integration.

Through the provision of a far-reaching portfolio of fleet solutions and consultancy services, EFM is an industry specialist which deals with the not-so-insignificant matter of ensuring vehicle maintenance is planned and managed effectively, that vehicles are GPS tracked, full background checks on drivers are rigorous, and all areas of business risk related to the vehicle fleet and its drivers are diligently taken care of. In turn, this management allows Eqstra’s clients to redirect their attention and resources toward other areas of the business.

EFM has always strived to deliver sustainable value to its customers, supplying a range of integrated solutions designed to

GOOD PARTNERS. GOOD BUSINESS.

WE ARE PROUD TO BE PARTNERED WITH

Combined Motor Holdings Limited (CMH Group) is a leading multi-franchise group listed on the JSE with well-established roots in the retail motor sector.

CMH represents a number of leading vehicle-brand dealerships across South Africa specialising in online and offline new and used car dealerships, service centres, and the supply of genuine manufacturer parts.

CMH employs in excess of 2800 staff and at October 2016, had a market value of in excess oof R1.3 billion.

The CMH Group operates its car hire business through First Car Rental, a 17 year old, award-winning car hire company with 51 branches in South Africa, and a fleet of approximately 7000 vehicles.

First Car Rental also operates a van and truck rental division, and a transfer solutions service called Direct Transfer.

CMH Fleet Solutions is the fleet division of Combined Motoring Holdings (CMH), offering corporate companies customised and optimised fleet solutions from a comprehensive range of products and vehicles from the extensive CMH dealer network.

The company offers passenger vehicles, light and heavy commercial vehicles with an excellent after-sales programme for your entire fleet.

www.firstcarrental.comwww.cmhfleetsolutions.co.za

www.cmh.co.za


For virtually all businesses across all industries, vehicle leasing and finance was for the most part unheard of – vehicles were bought upfront and outright, and often at great cost. The time and resource-intensive task of effectively managing a fleet of vehicles, whether large or small, fell to in-house logistics teams and departments – but no longer.


GOOD PARTNERS. GOOD BUSINESS.

WE ARE PROUD TO BE PARTNERED WITH

Combined Motor Holdings Limited (CMH Group) is a leading multi-franchise group listed on the JSE with well-established roots in the retail motor sector.

CMH represents a number of leading vehicle-brand dealerships across South Africa specialising in online and offline new and used car dealerships, service centres, and the supply of genuine manufacturer parts.

CMH employs in excess of 2800 staff and at October 2016, had a market value of in excess oof R1.3 billion.

The CMH Group operates its car hire business through First Car Rental, a 17 year old, award-winning car hire company with 51 branches in South Africa, and a fleet of approximately 7000 vehicles.

First Car Rental also operates a van and truck rental division, and a transfer solutions service called Direct Transfer.

CMH Fleet Solutions is the fleet division of Combined Motoring Holdings (CMH), offering corporate companies customised and optimised fleet solutions from a comprehensive range of products and vehicles from the extensive CMH dealer network.

The company offers passenger vehicles, light and heavy commercial vehicles with an excellent after-sales programme for your entire fleet.

www.firstcarrental.comwww.cmhfleetsolutions.co.za

www.cmh.co.za


provide efficient and cost-effective vehicle fleet management for their clients. Importantly, it does so while ensuring that the value delivered is measurable and quantifiable.

“Transparency is one of our corporate watch words,” explained Murray Price, who has been instrumental in building the company up from a small enterprise almost twenty years ago into a latter-day giant in its field: “It makes things far simpler when your good service can be described in figures instead of words. It is a system that must work - we have had customers for fifteen years and employees who have lasted just as long. People want to stay with us.”

This is an important factor, bearing in mind the troubles which the company has faced over the last decade, particularly around the 2008 global economic crisis – an event which placed a huge amount of pressure on Eqstra Fleet, as it did many others, and forced the company to move away from its vehicle leasing focused business model in favour of a more balanced, flexible 50-50 split between leasing and service divisions. “Many challenges, upsets and upheavals were thrown our way (in the past), but it’s good. Big upsets give you the choice of going under or changing, and that has made us a much sharper and even more efficient operation today.

Change must be embraced, and often encouraged. It forces you to pick up your company and give it a thorough shake until all that isn’t needed simply falls out.”

The implementation of a new automated management system, known as Quest, was greenlit with this change in mind. The software grants customers access to their own profile, from which they can record, access and amend agreements, transactions, service histories and other information online. The system has proved to be revolutionary, and has thus far been well received by its international client base, particularly in South Africa, Europe and the US.

“Our new system, called Quest, is an evolution of our product and is our answer for the customer who is looking for the best. It has been a significant investment of between US$15 million and US$20 million, but we believe it will be a complete game-changer.” Murray continued: “Quest is a one stop-shop, a porthole through which a customer can access not only the latest technology for fleet management and driver’s assessments but also the 30 or so years of experience that EFM has gained. A customer being able to view all fleet costs against a single vehicle record in an integrated system makes Quest unique, and with more and more customers



PROUD VEHICLE SUPPLIER TO

WWW.HINO.CO.ZA

P.O Box 1109, Potchefstroom 2520 Tel: 018 293 0432/3, Fax: 018 294 4037 50 Ross Str. Potchefstroom www.harrystyres.co.za

T&Cs apply

FREE TYRE DATA MANAGEMENT



looking to rationalise their supply chain through partnering with a single service provider, the future looks very bright indeed.”

He describes Quest as taking the receipts and accounts off the desk of a fleet owner and putting them all into one access point on the computer; “Our customers can go with us and a get a full package with just one invoice from us while we deal with the banks, the dealerships and the insurance instead of them.” Quest has been live for just over a year in four different countries, and has already proved its worth to the companies who rely on EFM’s services to do business.

Using SA Breweries, one of Eqstra Fleet’s key clients, as an example, Murray told us: “SA breweries had a fleet of vehicles that we analysed. Using Quest, we looked at vehicles, roads and driver habits, and determined that they were using the wrong vehicles for those routes. For example, city cars on dirt roads. This allowed us to recommend a proactive approach to change the routes, therein providing an improvement within the confinement of operation and costs.”

Murray believes this message is worth driving home; “When you have informed data that consolidates many different aspects of the fleet, you can make the right decisions.”

In Murray’s view, while the South Africa of today has some of the most innovative and forward thinking minds in the world, there are conservative pockets which remain resistant to change. As implementation has proven in the case of EFM, change should be embraced, and he anticipates that over time the rest of the industry will follow in their lead. This is not to say that it’s all been smooth sailing, of course, as Murray is the first to admit – he revealed that whilst the Quest system has been active for over a year, a lot of painful lessons have been learned in the time since its roll-out.

This is just the beginning of the new era for EFM. With plans to expand further afield than just into Africa, crossing the oceans will be the next big step for the fleet management company. However, Murray is quick to point out that you should dream big but work small, making sure that every little detail is done right:

“Now that the system is live we need to ensure step-by-step and day-by-day that it does what it says on the box. Landing is just stage one, next is the roll out, and then global expansion.”


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Dubbed by London’s Daily Telegraph as the “Most stylish place to shop and dine” in Barbados, Limegrove is the first word in Caribbean chic, and has become a mainstay for tourists and locals alike. Located in the heart of Holetown, it is a signature location with an array of boutiques, designer stores, featuring more than 100 of the world’s best known fashion brands, leisure establishments and apartments.

WRITTEN BY JASPER MILVAIN

THE FIRST WORD IN CARIBBEAN CHIC


LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTERWWW.LIMEGROVE.COM

1 (246) 620 (5463)

LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTER

The Limegrove story began in 1980 when Paul Altman, the founder of the Limegrove venture, joined the team for the creation of the Speightstown Mall. Located in Barbados’

most northern city, this was and is a treasured conservation area and signalled the start of Paul’s career in development. During his tenure as President of the Barbados National Trust, Paul had the opportunity to oversee improvement of the town, particularly significant because of its rich, historic past. This ignited a passion which led to the creation of many signature developments associated with the Altman Real Estate brand.

“I’m in the real estate business and have been involved in a number of projects where I have been acting on behalf of investors or investing in myself,” Paul tells us, “Limegrove gave the opportunity to go into a mix used development that has everything with it- restaurants, retail, hotels, films, cinemas and residential. Before Limegrove, there was a void of high-end duty free shopping in Barbados. Limegrove introduced this at the highest end possible, in an environment that is socially inviting. There is a culture and an image surrounding Limegrove that makes our visitors feel special.”

Paul explains that the particular site lent itself to this development. It was abandoned because people didn’t understand how to develop it, but he had the experience to make it happen.

“Barbados is a high-profile destination,” he adds, “And Limegrove is influenced and inspired by Havana, Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York (Soho), Singapore and other trendy destinations.”

Throughout the architecture you can catch glimpses of the original influences and the atmosphere of Limegrove. This mixed-

use facility presents the world’s top retail brands, all set around courtyards where visitors spend time enjoying food, fashion, art and film.

Paul reveals that shortly they will be opening a signature rooftop restaurant, a radio station as well as refurbishing a number of restaurants and this is over and above the usual score of events and promotions they have year round focused around the Barbados obsession with food, wine, rum and music.

LIFE AT LIMEGROVEThe Grove Residences are a combination of luxury apartments

and penthouse suites and the Hillside Villas at The Grove, currently for sale, offer a living experience unmatched anywhere in Barbados. “Our villas feature a unique open design inspired by loft living, with high ceilings and plenty of natural light,” Patricia says. She adds that there are eight in total with 3,433 square feet of living space including three bedrooms and bathrooms over three levels.

“One third of the living space is outdoors and includes a pool deck, garden decks on the ground level and two decks off the main living level,” she says.

The exterior architecture is a modern take on traditional design, which complements the chic surroundings of the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre while making full use of the majestic beauty of Barbados’ other architectural surroundings. Each villa benefits from a private pool with easy access to the beach and world class shopping and gourmet dining to be found within Limegrove itself.

Furthermore, any visitors have the added benefit of knowing


Endeavour Magazine spoke with Patricia Mckenzie, Head of Marketing at Limegrove and Paul Altman, its visionary founder, to find out more.



that all this does not come with a hefty cost to the environment, which is part of the natural splendour of this area. It is quickly apparent that at Limegrove, “going green” is not some token gesture but a corporate commitment to environmental sustainability.

This is why, Patricia reveals, Limegrove embarked on a number of initiatives with the ultimate goal of earning the prestigious LEED Certification for environmentally friendly commercial projects and has set out to achieve this in a number of ways.

REDUCTION OF AREA FLOODINGUp until the development of Limegrove there had been no

buildings on the site’s location because it was a low lying flood zone. The floods had been an ongoing and highly damaging problem for the local community and it took a combination of a large number of environmental studies followed by aggressive engineering to eliminate the flooding and to ensure the integrity of the project’s foundation.

“Naturally, eliminating the flooding to make way for the construction of Limegrove was a prestigious and appreciated project that involved in the community,” Patricia highlights.

Then, to best capture the spirit of historic Holetown, the buildings at Limegrove were constructed from recycled materials with many of the walls made from natural coral stone and the walkways feature recycled bricks.

Furthermore, Limegrove carefully examines the products that staff, tenants and guests use on a day-to-day basis, in order to understand opportunities to reduce, reuse or recycle waste as part of their waste management initiative. Currently, Limegrove refills ink cartridges, recycles paper and has plans to use grey water from the on-site sewage treatment plant for irrigation.

Management of waste and construction via recycled products are one thing, but Limegrove has taken it a step further with the creation of green spaces for their community. Understanding the aesthetic, environmental and psychological benefits of green spaces, which are a common feature around the centre, they have gone to extreme lengths to fit in as much as possible.

“During development, The Sandbox Building, which houses Burberry and Hugo Boss, was given a “J shape” to preserve the sandbox tree that is located there and today it features a green courtyard,” she illustrates.

Natural flowering trees, including lime trees, bay leaf trees and



palm trees surround the parking and outdoor areas and in addition, the residential areas at Limegrove are intentionally designed to provide a great deal of space for “greening” and landscaping.

“On the rooftop, we have created a starter shed to grow herbs, which restaurants in the Centre can use for their menus,” she says. Still under development, the green roof will be additionally useful for absorbing rainwater and providing insulation to the building.

Limegrove is an exceptional place to live and play, and over the years to come it is only set to improve. “There is always change and excitement that takes the level of experience to the next stage,” Paul cryptically revealed, suggesting that there are further plans in the pipeline for . “It must be pushed and advanced. You have to be constantly in touch with products in new markets, in touch and tweaking it and extracting the highest level for the public. Constantly reviewing, upgrading and acting is vital, instead of reacting.”

What is there to say? Yes – Limegrove is the place to be for those with exclusive tastes and a love of chic aesthetics, but it should also be remembered that it is more than just a shopping destination for tourists travelling to Barbados, or a place to live. Limegrove is a way of life.


AMAZING WORLD

CRYONICS - PRESERVING OUR FUTURE WRITTEN BY STEVEN WELLER

Recent advances within the realms of science never fail to impress us here at Endeavour Magazine. Over the past decade alone mankind has witnessed remarkable advances

in the field of bio-research, ranging from the great strides forward that have been made in cloning technology, to our ever-increasing understanding of stem cell development. And yet for all the progress that has been made in recent years, there’s one area of research in particular which has grabbed recent headlines; cryonics.

Sounding more like an experiment from a science fiction movie than reality, cryonics is the low temperature preservation of people; think Han Solo in The Empire Strikes Back. Unlike the world of Star

Wars, we do not yet possess the technology necessary to bring humans back from a cryopreserved state, but one day, sooner rather than later, we might, and that’s where the attraction lies.

The possibility of returning in a future generation has captured the imagination, with hundreds of willing participants already frozen and thousands more on the waiting list. Quite surprisingly, cryonics is nothing too recent. In fact, the first person to be cryopreserved was a Mr. James Bedford in 1967, not Walt Disney (contrary to popular belief).

So how does it all work? Well, cryogenics in layman’s terms is the study of matter at extremely low temperatures. In the


case of cryopreservation, bodies are not frozen per se for the inconvenient reason that the ice crystals which form when cells are frozen irreparably damages their cellular structure. Instead, almost immediately after death, the body is injected with cryoprotectants which prevent the formation of ice. Ice aside, we are talking temperature’s in the region of -190°.

There are multiple facilities located around the world which offer the cryonics treatments, the most high-profile of which being the Alcor Life Extension Foundation in Arizona, and the Cryonics Institute in Michigan. But what does something like this cost? Well, at present prices vary greatly, depending on the cryofreezing package which is chosen, although anywhere between US$30,000-150,000 would be a representative figure – less than one might imagine, in other words.

Cryonics has repeatedly made the headlines in recent months, following an unprecedented case involving a 14-year-old terminally ill cancer patient, who asked that she be cryofrozen as her dying wish. Mr Justice Peter Jackson granted the girls request after her parents had also agreed, following the reading of a hand-written letter to the court by the patient which reduced many to tears:

“I have been asked to explain why I want this unusual thing done. I am only 14-years-old and I don’t want to die but I know I am going to die. I think being cryo-preserved gives me a chance to be cured and woken up - even in hundreds of years’ time. I don’t want to be buried underground. I want to live and live longer and I think that in the future they may find a cure for my cancer and wake me up. I want to have this chance. This is my wish”.

The problem with the treatment is not that in the future we will be incapable of curing diseases that today we cannot, but the actual process of unfreezing. And even if this can be done without inflicting physical harm, the treatment raises many ethical questions, ie. is it fair for the girl to come back into a world in the distant future, where her family and friends are no longer there? And then there are the quite valid concerns about what affect the cryofreezing process may have on the patient’s brain – what good will being revived a century from now be should the patient lose her memories, or even her mental faculties?

What we must remember, irrespective of the near-certainty that humans will one day be able to reverse the effects of cryopreservation in the near or distant future, is that the possibility of someday returning is somewhat comforting, especially to those who have been given very little hope in this life.


Attracted by its glorious coastal beaches, expansive wildlife reservations, and tropical climates, tourists flock to Kenya every year in their thousands. Ashnil Hotels Limited is one the country’s hidden gems within the hospitality sector, offering customers excellence in both service and location.

WRITTEN BY STEVEN WELLER

THE SUN SHINES ON EVERYONE


ASHNIL HOTELS LTDWWW.ASHNILHOTELS.COM

254-20 3566970

ASHNIL HOTELS LTD

“Ashnil Hotels Ltd is a hotel group that operates 3 properties in the National Parks / Reserves in Kenya, namely; Ashnil Aruba Lodge in Tsavo East National Park,

Ashnil Samburu Camp in the Buffalo Springs Reserve and Ashnil Mara Camp in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Our clientele is both Resident and non-Resident tourists visiting the parks for the wildlife and nature experience,” explains Mr Bhandari.

LOCATION IS EVERYTHINGIn 2013 alone, 200,000 Brits ventured to Kenya, but just what

is so enticing about the country? Well, firstly there’s the climate. Kenya is lucky enough to enjoy a spot on the equator, ensuring tropical weather nearly all year round. March and April are the months to expect rain, something which will no doubt make its British visitors feel right at home, but Rajan insists this only adds to the fun: “Kenya is located in the tropics, and our temperate climates are divided by brief rainy seasons. There should not even

be a weather consideration – in fact, it adds to the excitement to slip-slide around the Game Parks looking for wildlife.”

In Kenya, visitors can find the big five game animals, the lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant, all of whom live in its vast national parks and game reserves. The annual migration of great numbers of these animals means big business for the Kenyan economy, with one such example occurring at the Masai Masa game reserve, where wildebeest come to migrate in their hundreds of thousands. Of course, the Mara river is also where one of Ashnil Hotels properties rests.

THE CAMPS“We have three beautiful camps and lodges located in some of

the best game-viewing locations in Kenya’s world famous national parks. Each of the properties has its own unique feel, unparalleled levels of comfort and service, but most importantly offer amazing opportunities to view the local wildlife, culture, and landscape.”

ASHNIL HOTELS LTD

To find out more about the business and current state of play within Kenya, Endeavour magazine had the pleasure of conversing with Ashnil Hotels managing director, Mr Rajan Bhandari.

ASHNIL ARUBA The Aruba lodge lies amid Tsavo East

National Park, known for attractions such as Aruba Dam and Mudanda Rock and famous for its lion population. In total, there are about 700 lions in the Amboseli- Tsavo ecosystem. Aruba is also a short distance away from the popular tourist destination, Mombasa. The property offers 46 deluxe rooms, a restaurant, lounge bar, conference facilities and swimming pool.

ASHNIL SAMBURU Samburu camp is located in Buffalo

Springs Game Reserve, a protected area in the Isiolo County. Wildlife includes, the endangered Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, the African bush elephant, spotted hyena and African buffalo whilst the river is home to crocodiles and hippos. The camp consists of 30 luxury tents, and activities include game drives, guided nature walks, sundowners and even wedding receptions for the more romantic-minded.

ASHNIL MARA Mara is the latest property, introduced

in 2010, and not only does the reserve play home to large wildebeest numbers, but also all of the big five game animals. The camp itself is in one of the very best positions of the reserve, with 40 luxury tents. Standout activities include the 4X4 guided drive and breakfast by the hippo pool; set aside the stunning Mara River.


ASHNIL HOTELS LTD

A BUMPY RIDE The tourism industry, not just in Kenya but in all of Africa, has

certainly had its ups and downs over the past few years. Perception is everything, particularly when it comes to selecting a holiday destination, Rajan elaborates,

“The past 2 years were very difficult for us and the Industry at large. The perception of the destination suffered for a variety of reasons and not all can be attributed to our circumstances. We have also been affected by a downturn in the global economy coupled with the Ebola threat which whilst was a localised situation in West Africa, it affected tourism to the whole continent.”

Despite all of the threats Ashnil Hotels Limited has faced in recent years, business remains on the up: “Thankfully, the destination seems to have recovered and the appetite for Safari and Leisure travel to Kenya is on the increase. It was comforting to see that most if not all the operators in the Maasai Mara did very well this summer. The demand for the first time in a while seemed to match if not exceed bed capacity. Sadly, the perception that our product is seasonal seems to undermine it”, Rajan continues.

THE TEAMThere are many factors which can be attributed to the success

of this business, but perhaps none more so than the hard work and dedication of the 250-strong staff force; a collective herd to be revered:

“We strongly believe that people are our greatest asset. We encourage the culture of thinking and creativity and recognize initiative with growth. So many of our staff started with us over 8 years ago, and even more have been attaining their 5-year milestone with us all the time. Our preference to promote from within has amongst many, even resulted in a Lodge Manager who started in Housekeeping!”

Many of the staff are allowed, and even encouraged to continue studying whilst in employment. This further strengthens skills and enriches lives. At the forefront of this strategy and guidance is the group’s chairman, Mr Suresh Sofat – a gentleman whom Rajan credited as being instrumental in identifying locations, and contributing toward design and concept. This is all testimony of his 50 years’ experience in the industry.

ASHNIL HOTELS LTD


WORKING TOGETHER On a personal note, what has impressed us most at Endeavour

Magazine during our recent focus into Kenya is the collective willingness of companies to work together. This approach helps to foster a sustainable, thriving tourism industry, and provide an overall enjoyable, unforgettable experience for the customer. Rajan’s attitude is a credit to Ashnil Hotels Limited, the industry, and the country.

“I have always been a believer that the sun shines on everyone. I would rather see all the hoteliers thrive than to compete for what they already have. To this end, we enjoy very good relations with most of the players in the industry as they are not my competition – simply partners working together to build the destination.”

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94463_Safari range_v2.indd 1 14/12/2016 10:24:43

Ashnil Hotels has been a valued JWS client for 18 months. The two companies have known each other for many years and share the same passion for quality products and exceptional customer service. When JWS presented its Safari Plan the Ashnil team was immediately convinced by the comprehensive cover and competitive price. JWS now looks forward to developing the business relationship further.


Hidden deep in the wintery forests of Helgeland, nestled away from public roads at the foot of the North Norwegian peeks, sits a lone building of glass, stone and wood. At night, lights from within this curious structure glow magenta and blue, reflecting off the falling waters of the Forsland river and the crisp surrounding snow.

WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER

A FUSION OF ART AND ENERGY


HELGELAND KRAFTWWW.HELGELANDKRAFT.NO

0047 75 10 00 00

HELGELAND KRAFT

Upper Forsland Power-plant could easily be mistaken for an art installation. It is both at odds with its surroundings and yet in harmony with them - a modern anomaly in a wild setting,

yet one that has been designed to not only leave its surroundings unspoiled, but to work with them to enhance the natural beauty of its location.

THE COMPANYHelgeland is the southern-most district of Northern Norway,

just south of the Arctic Circle – a province with a small population but many visitors who travel to hike and explore its rugged, striking landscapes. Helgeland Kraft’s hydro-power plants generate 90% of the area’s power, providing electricity to 54,950 homes purely from renewable energy, with an additional 35% of their revenue coming from the supply of power to homes further afield.

In 2008, Helgeland Kraft commissioned the design of several new plants briefed to not only meet a high standard of sustainability, clean production and low environmental impact, but to also suit their surroundings. Øvre Forsland was the first of these plants to be completed, in 2015, with the remaining plants expected to be finished between now and 2018.

THE PLANTHelgeland Kraft commissioned architects Stein Hamre

Arkitektkontor to design the Upper Forsland plant. The firm took inspiration from the facility’s surroundings, creating the building

from glass, slate and local stone that blend with the rock-face that cradles it. The windows and facade are cut in irregular shapes that mimic trees and these nearby peaks, created using a wood that will gradually develop a soft grey pigment as it interacts with the elements. The wood is produced by Kebony, a local company; its durability and low-maintenance mean it lends itself to use in remote locations, and thus diverts demand away from endangered tropical forests.

Upper Forsland was commissioned for two reasons – firstly and most importantly, to provide clean hydro-power to the local area. Norway is a world leader in green energy; the Dutch government actively promote the development of a variety of green solutions, but hydropower is by far the dominant industry, generating 80% of the country’s electricity.

Hydropower is cheaper than many other sources of power and Helgeland Kraft is able to pass on the savings to the homes they supply in the form of a lower energy bill. However, unlike some power sources, hydro-power is of course affected by the weather. In heavy rainfall or icy conditions, the volume of electricity produced can rise or fall, causing costs to fall and rise in response. Helgeland Kraft are careful to monitor these conditions daily, looking always for the cheapest way to meet supply demand using only green energy sources. However, even taking these price fluctuations into account, the cost of energy is a fraction of that paid for oil and gas-fired energy, making hydropower both a more affordable and sustainable solution, both in the short-term and, for the environment, the long-term too.

HELGELAND KRAFT

This is Øvre Forsland Kraftverk – the Upper Forsland hydro-power plant, one of 12 owned, developed and run by the region’s sole energy providers, Helgeland Kraft.


HELGELAND KRAFT

Helgeland Kraft’s goal is “to improve the security of supply and provide increased value in Helgeland.” - a mission which Helgeland, having spent hundreds of millions in recent years, is dedicated to upholding.

The future of clean energy supply is a motivation behind Upper Forsland’s second purpose as well: education. The plant’s striking appearance was not only designed out of respect for the aesthetics of its location, but also in the hope that the plant will gain media attention and draw the gaze of the public eye. Raising awareness and education on this energy source is an important goal for Helgeland Kraft, which hopes to ensure hydro-power’s continued growth in Norway, and see that it continues long into the future.

Already in a popular location for sight-seeing, Helgeland Kraft hope that the Upper Forsland plant will become a sought-out destination for passing explorers, perhaps hiking to it for the challenge or the view, but staying to learn more about the possibilities of this green technology. The service road leading up to the plant is closed to public traffic, one of Helgeland’s many efforts to limit the plant’s impact on the tranquillity of the local area. Instead, hikers have the sounds of the tumbling Forsland River as the biggest clue to the plant’s location – that is, until they reach the edge of the resort, when their arrival will trigger the building to light up through the trees. The light show, powered by the plant’s clean hydro-power, shines for an hour before falling dormant again, a striking beacon to travellers without wasting power.

A PIECE OF HISTORYAs well as being able to explore the facility, read-up and learn

about hydropower, and watch the plant’s operations, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding land from an observation area, capable of seating up to 16 people, sitting just across the water from the hydro-power plant. They can also arrange to join a guided tour that will tell them more about the history of energy in the area, for Upper Forsland is not the only surprise to discover in the sprawling forests.

The plant is kept company by the relics of its predecessors, the remains of hydro-power initiatives dating back to the start of the 20th Century. In particular, remains from the 1940s, concrete now reclaimed by water and woodland greenery, tell of German-built hydro-energy solutions that sought reliable energy sources during strenuous wartime conditions. Only a hint of what once stood, ruins such as the 1941 Starfossen Knaftverk or the 1943 Merrafossen dam show how even one of the darkest periods in human history was able to inspire bright initiatives for the future.

BUILDING THE FUTURENow, following Upper Forsland, Helgeland Kraft have seven

new plants planned - five in Tosbotn and two, in cooperation with Salten Kraftsamband AS, in Rødøy-Lurøy. In total, the construction

of these plants represents an investment of 1100 million NOK, and will increase Helgeland Kraft’s total power generation capacity by 25 per cent. The Tosenanleggene plant in Tosbotn has already been completed, supplying 6500 households from an equally attractive, conscientiously constructed facility. The cost of these remaining builds has been made possible largely by a loan of 470 million NOK, which was provided by the Nordic Investment Bank (NIB).

This long-term funding is a new source of capital for Helgeland Kraft, and indicative of the recognition the company is quite rightfully receiving for its recent works. In May 2016, plant architects Stein Hamre Arkitektkontor attended the Architizer A+ Awards in New York, where the plants were the winners of the Architecture & Sustainability category.

These plants are but a few of the many global projects hoping to promote green energy by reaching out to the public imagination. In Denmark, the Solrødgård Wastewater Treatment Plant combines a waste-water treatment plant with public gardens, juxtaposing natural beauty with their glass-walled facility to remind visitors of the link between waste management and the world it works to protect. Meanwhile, wider initiatives such as the US-based Land Art Generate Initiative encourage artists around the world to address

HELGELAND KRAFT


the topic of green energy, combining aesthetics with innovation in its biennial competitions much as Helgeland Kraft have in these builds.

Helgeland Kraft are a conscientious company, all of its staff sharing its commitment to the wellbeing of their region and its future in many capacities. As well as providing for Helgeland through clean, affordable energy, the company also believe in supporting people’s standard of living; every year, the company collect funding for local organizations, particularly supporting groups that work to help Norway’s children and young people.

Hydro-power is set to keep growing in Norway in the coming years, and with it, the industry and sustainability of the Helgeland region. As they enter their penultimate year of development, Helgeland Kraft’s plants should keep increasing visitors and attention to the area, just as they continue to increase reliable, cheap and conscience-freeing energy for the local population and beyond. The popularity of these aesthetic power plants is a trend that we will hopefully start to see spreading around Norway, Europe and the globe – one of many initiatives pushing to show the world that energy does not have to be expensive, ugly and harmful, but can be part of a clean, affordable and beautiful future.


AMAZING WORLD

PROJECT NOURISHEDWRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER

“By merging molecular gastronomy with virtual reality, we can finally enjoy any food we want in a whole new way.”

Founded in 2014 by Jinsoo An, Kokiri Lab describes itself as a “playground and think tank” for researching and developing new wearables technology that “improve the human condition.” One of the lab’s most striking creations is Project Nourished, an ambitious virtual reality experiment that aims to simulate the experience of eating.

More than most VR experiences, Project Nourished evokes thoughts of Star Trek’s Holosuites, creating a fully immersive environment where the user not only interacts with the illusion, but can feel, smell and even consume it. Yet it was a different work of fiction that inspired Jinsoo and his team: Steven Spielberg’s Hook (1991). In Hook, the Lost Boys’ imaginary dinner and food fight is an iconic scene created to capture the limitless freedom of childhood and make-believe - and it inspired one future inventor to make this limitless make-believe a reality.

In order to re-create the experience of eating, Jinsoo’s team need to go beyond VR headsets to convince all five sense. Aromatic

diffusers produce food-like smells using ultrasonic and heat, whilst low-calorie, 3D-printed ‘food’ made from algae takes on the challenge of re-creating texture, consistency and flavour.

Simulating these senses is no easy task. Eating is a primal, essential part of our existence, and though our menus have gone through millennia of development since early primates hunted and foraged, the physical act of eating has, of course, barely changed. We have a sensitive ‘ick’ reflex when it comes to unfamiliar food – it’s a survival instinct, and in the same way that we have an astute sense for when a face isn’t quite right, a half-convincing food simulation would risk giving users an unsettling ‘uncanny valley’ reaction.

Jinsoo An and his team have their work cut out for them - but the greater the challenge, the greater the sense of magic when it is achieved.

The real question is, why would anyone want simulated food? The idea seems forget the reason we eat – to eat! In fact, the project’s creators have many applications in mind, and some of them are ingenious.

One of the main motives is to use the technology in hospitals,


as escapism for patients with illnesses or conditions that affect their eating, and to assist therapy for people with eating disorders. On an individual level, the technology would allow long-distance diners to share a meal together despite being apart, and the creators believe the technology could also encourage healthy diets by providing a consequence-free way to indulge in unhealthy foods.

Of course, the inspiration for the project suggests another use, and for Jinsoo, this is where the real fun is: fantasy meals, allowing users to eat completely imagined, non-existent foods. What would people eat in the future, or on another planet? Kikiri Lab’s food technicians are working obsessively to not only recreate recognisable foods, but to invent whole new flavours and tastes.

The example footage for Project Nourished is currently, like many VR experiments, fairly basic, especially compared to film and video game CGI. However, this high-spec visual technology exists, whereas the sensation of eating is exciting new territory to be conquered. Once Jinsoo’s team have mastered these challenges, it seems natural that advanced visual technology will join them, leaving no limit to the fictional gastronomic horizons they could travel to.


It is news to nobody that the global financial crisis of 2008 was an event which was unrivalled in terms of the damage it wrought on national economies and companies the world over, and in this respect the Caribbean wasn’t spared.


THE MARITIME GATEWAY TO THE

CARIBBEAN


BARBADOS PORT INCWWW.BARBADOSPORT.COM

001 (246) 434-6100

BARBADOS PORT INC

As any business leader worth his salt knows, for every threat that emerges an opportunity of equal scale and potency is created behind it. Where another company might have panicked,

seeing only impending disaster, Barbados Port Inc., the managers of the 50-year old Bridgetown site, instead saw an opportunity to give its business operations a much-needed shake-up via the implementation of a modernisation and expansion program.

Fast forward seven years from this time and, now, Bridgetown Port is booming. Business is surging, as is revenue, and following a series of changes which notably included the installation of a new electronic trade logistics system for cargo processing in 2011, the construction of a new pier later in 2015, along with the ancillary facilities needed to cater to a larger volume of visiting cruise ships, Bridgetown Port is more prosperous than ever. The numbers speak for themselves; in January 2016, Barbados welcomed more visitors than during any other January over the past 15-years. Today, its employees handle more than one million tons of goods, and extend their hospitality to more than 700,000 cruise ship passengers every year – quite remarkable figures, bearing in mind the difficulty the company was facing less than a decade ago.

With the capacity to accommodate five mega cruise ships at a time, and first-rate facilities which include an air-conditioned terminal with a duty-free shopping mall, stocking local and international goods, live performances from local musicians and dancers, and even a popular rum-sampling kiosk, Bridgetown Port

BARBADOS PORT INC

CIVILCOASTALSTRUCTURALENGINEERING

The soaring prices of staple goods like energy and rampant unemployment, along with falling revenues and rising debt, both sovereign and private, hit many of the region’s maritime nations especially hard as trade and tourism floundered. Bridgetown Port, the gateway through which up to 90% of the goods coming into and out of Barbados passes, and the only berth on the island capable of accommodating the colossal cruise vessels that feed the country’s vital tourism sector, naturally took the brunt of the downturn. However, since this time the company has staged a remarkable turnaround.


BARBADOS PORT INC

offers a warm, lively Bajun greeting to visitors to the island.“This is a country with warm, friendly people who are highly

educated,” said David Jean-Marie, CEO of Barbados Port Inc. “Barbados is one of the safest countries in the world, and we also have one of the world’s highest literacy rates. We want to have a port that remains in your memory, and leaves a lasting, positive impact.”

During the peak holiday season, a period when the golden Barbadian sunshine is at its very best, typically running from November to April, cruise ships crowd to the islands bringing hundreds of thousands of tourists, and the great wealth that comes with them that is so essential for the Barbadian national economy. As the only cruise port on the island, Bridgetown Port plays a critical role in ensuring the rude health of the country’s tourism industry. Naturally, Barbados Port Inc. is keen to maximise the potential of the site, in terms of boosting revenue, and as such has developed a host of strategies intended to turbo-charge the country’s already booming tourism sector. On this, Mr. Jean-Marie said: “We have a plan to develop home porting. That’s where passengers, particularly from Europe, fly to Barbados to take a cruise, and then debark in Barbados again. Currently we have seventeen vessels that do

partial or full home porting operations in Bridgetown. Our vision is to encourage a portion of those passengers to stay on the island a few days before or after their cruise.”

Then there’s the construction of a prospective new cruise facility to consider – a vast and ambitious undertaking which will further streamline operations, and help take Bridgetown Port to the highest international standards. “We give cruise vessels priority over cargo vessels, but that can create problems for us,” said Mr. Jean-Marie. “We’re therefore planning to build a $250 million cruise facility just to the south of the port. The facility is all designed - it’s now just a matter of having the right financing structure.” Suffice to say that Bridgetown Port cannot be accused of having stood still over the past decade, during which it has evolved from a creaking, clunking relic into a slick maritime operator fit for the 21st century.

On the subject of cargo handling, Bridgetown’s capabilities are no less impressive than its cruise ship handling operations. The port, manned by two hundred employees, is equipped to handle over 100,000 containers per year. Cargo berths are equipped with a 40-ton gantry crane and a 104-ton capacity mobile crane, whilst the terminal itself has fifty forklifts, nine straddle carriers, and two reach stackers. Following its recent setup and installation,

BARBADOS PORT INC


the newly-developed KleinPort computer system has also had a considerable impact on cargo processing operations for the better, allowing customers to track their cargo shipments from their own offices.

When asked to elaborate more in this, Mr. Jean-Marie continued: “We have a $100 million project for the reorganisation of the port facility, which we’ve already commenced. We have begun to acquire new, modern equipment, including five straddle carriers and a new Panamax gantry crane. We have made deeper draughts and we have dredged and reclaimed areas of land, so we’re building capacity as well as modernising the equipment to be able to accommodate bigger cargo vessels.”

Over the short to medium-term at least, this new equipment will soon be put to the test, with the port anticipating a rise in exports as a result of the Barbados Investment Development Corporation’s ‘Going Global’ program. “The best way we can participate in that transformation and growth is by ensuring that our port is compliant with all types of international standards in terms of security and quality,” stated Mr. Jean-Marie. “Our workforce is being certified to international levels. We have also removed the tariff on exports, to facilitate trade out of Barbados.”


BARBADOS PORT INC

He continued: “We’re also going green. We want to move more towards electrical power rather than diesel being burned while the ships are in port.” With a view to making the company’s business more environmentally sustainable, Barbados Port Inc. has committed to working with RightShip, using Carbon War Room’s GHG Emissions Ratings to create an incentive program that encourages more environmentally friendly vessels to dock at port. This incentive will reward vessels with better energy efficiency ratings, in the form of reduced port fees for vessels which rank highly in terms of energy efficiency. “The Organisation of American States has played a key role in facilitating our partnership with RightShip,” said Mr. Jean-Marie. “We are one of a coordinated effort across the industry to promote efficient shipping. By ‘acting local’ and protecting our port environment, we are part of a larger global movement intent on reducing the carbon footprint of the shipping industry.”

As the gateway into Barbados for the throngs of tourists who flock to the island each year, and the commercial hub through which much of Barbados’ cargo enters and leaves, the port’s influence on the rest of the island is to say the least considerable. Certainly, it is the equal of virtually all but the greatest ports operating in this

region – a reason perhaps why the United Nations added Barbados to its list of maritime nations with high human development.

Mr. Jean-Marie concluded, saying: “This is a modern facility that is completely different to what it was. It has been structured to make sure that it is competitive and there is maximum operational efficiency. I have just been elected President of the Caribbean Shipping Association, and I therefore want to have more collaboration between regional ports, so we have signed a number of MoU’s.

We want to see more being done in terms of training and collaboration so that we can maximise the services provided by the region. We are striving to become, and expect to be the best-in-class port in the region, both from a cargo perspective as well as a cruise perspective. This is a safe, friendly destination with lots to see and do!”

We at Endeavour Magazine expect to hear a lot more about this this fast-growing maritime operator over the coming years.

BARBADOS PORT INC


Nowadays, when news emerges of the next mind-boggling, multi-billion-dollar engineering mega-project, China tends to be the first name on everybody’s lips. Granted, the Middle East isn’t far behind, but nobody would deny that when it comes to building bigger and bolder infrastructure, China undoubtedly has the monopoly.


GOING UNDERGROUND


SHANGHAI TUNNEL ENGINEERING COMPANY WWW.STEC.NET

65 6391 9150

STEC

But while STEC’s business focus has traditionally centred around its bread-and-butter public infrastructure and tunneling works, plans are in place which will see the company expand into new

ventures in new markets. Endeavour Magazine found out more.As one might expect of a glass and steel metropolis of the

stature of Singapore – a city which is quite justifiably recognised as one of the world’s leading urban centres, and the equal of virtually all rivals, barring London, New York, and Tokyo – subterranean engineering works below its bustling streets are ongoing. The nature of the city means that such works are as challenging in their maddening complexity as they are expensive.

With this being the case, STEC Singapore, whilst something of a niche civil engineering company that specialises on underground tunnelling works, is often called upon, according to Managing Director Engineer Leong. As a man with extensive experience in his field and an intimate understanding of the complicated geography on which Singapore is built, he is something of a safe pair of hands for the company.

“I was trained in Civil Engineering and has been working on tunnelling and underground projects for the past 29 years, having been involved in the Hong Kong Tai Lam Tunnel; Taiwan Kao

Hsiung City Metro Line; Singapore Land Transport Authority (LTA) East-West Line; North-East Line; Circle Line; Downtown Line and currently the Thomson-East Coast Line,” he says.

In his current capacity as the Project Director of LTA Thomson-East Coast Line T225 Project, the company has granted Eng Leong a relatively free rein to manage the project in terms of cost control, manpower recruitment, procurement and administrative matters.

CURRENT PROJECTSThe construction of Shenton Way station (T225) and its

associated tunnels is a vast undertaking which was first awarded to Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd in 2014, at a contract sum of approximately S$368 million, thanks largely to STEC’s frequent involvement in similar transit projects within Singapore in the past. Shenton Way MRT Station (TE19) is an upcoming underground Mass Rapid Transit station on the Thomson-East Coast Line in Singapore, which will be located around Asia Square and Shenton House.

The Mass Rapid Transit, or MRT, is a rapid transit system forming the major component of the railway system in Singapore, spanning the entire city-state. The initial section of the MRT, between Yio

STEC

As one of China’s finest experts in this field, Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Company (STEC) has, to say the least, been keeping busy. As the name implies, STEC’s core business is public infrastructure works and, in particular, transit projects involving both tunneling and expansive civil and structural engineering.


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STEC

Chu Kang and Toa Payoh, opened on 7 November 1987, making it the second-oldest metro system in Southeast Asia, after Manila’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) System. The network has since grown rapidly in accordance with Singapore’s aim of developing a comprehensive rail network as the backbone of the public transport system in Singapore, with an average daily ridership of 3.031 million in 2015 (including the Light Rail Transit), approximately 78% of the bus network’s 3.891 million in the same period.

The MRT network encompasses 170.7 kilometres (106.1 mi) of route, with 101 stations in operation, on standard gauge. The lines are built by the Land Transport Authority, a statutory board of the Government of Singapore, which allocates operating concessions to the profit-based corporations, SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit. These operators also run bus and taxi services, thus facilitating full integration of public transport services. The MRT is complemented by a small number of local LRT networks in Bukit Panjang, Sengkang and Punggol that link MRT stations with HDB public housing estates.

The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) will be the sixth Mass Rapid Transit system,(MRT) and the fourth fully automated and driverless system line in Singapore. The line was announced on 15

August 2014 by the Land Transport Authority as the merger of the Thomson Line (TSL) and the Eastern Region Line (ERL). The total cost of the system stretching from Woodlands North to Gardens by the Bay has been set at S$18 billion, and will open in five stages from 2019 onwards. Upon the completion of the first three stages of TEL, it is anticipated that the system will serve in the region of 500,000 commuters daily.

The line, which is 43 km (27 mi) long and consists of 31 stations, will run through the north-south corridor, starting in the northern Woodlands area, passing through the estate of Sin Ming Avenue, down to the residential Thomson area and the shopping districts of Orchard and Marina Bay, then running eastwards along the east coast through Siglap, Marine Parade and Bedok South, before ending at Sungei Bedok. Residents in the heartlands of Sembawang, Yishun, Ang Mo Kio, Bishan-Toa Payoh, Moulmein-Kallang, Tanjong Rhu and Bedok South will benefit from faster and more direct connections to the city. Its depots are located at Mandai, south of Woodlands, and near the south-eastern terminus of the line at Tanah Merah. If built, the planned Singapore-Johor Bahru Rapid Transit System is also likely to offer interchange to the line’s Woodlands North terminus.

STEC


The scope of work that they are involved in with LTA includes the design and construction of Newton station and associated tunnels for Downtown Line 2, the construction of tunnels between Tampines East station and Upper Changi station for Downtown Line 3 and the construction of Gul Circle station and viaducts for Tuas West Extension.

Not that STEC’s work stops with the Thomson Line. According to Eng Leong, the company will is poised to venture into new markets further afield across the South East Asian region. “We are actively looking into possible business opportunities in Malaysia; Thailand, Myanmar and Indonesia,” he says. “By further expanding the operations into other parts of Southeast Asia, it would raise the stature of the company and may even create overseas job opportunities for the locals here as the plan is to gradually increase the team strength and resources as required in the process of this expansion plan.”

Tel: (60) 03-40443133 Fax: (60) 07-3513364Mobile: (60) 19-7723111Email: [email protected]: NO. 20-1, Jalan 6/18A, Taman Mastiara off Jalan Ipoh,51200 Kaula Lumpur

Malaysia office : Tel: (65) 6861 8488 Fax: (65) 6898 4160Email: [email protected]: 31 Mandai Estate #02-01 Innovation Place Singapore 729933

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Zhao Yang Geotechnic Pte Ltd is a Singapore company that has earned a reputation as one of the industry’s leading specialists who understands the complexities of building and maintaining modern infrastructures today. With strong presence in Singapore and Malaysia, ZYG is your one-stop ground improvement and geotechnical engineering professionals providing top quality, innovative, safe, reliable, cost effective and proven solutions. Tel: (60) 03-40443133 Fax: (60) 07-3513364

Mobile: (60) 19-7723111Email: [email protected]: NO. 20-1, Jalan 6/18A, Taman Mastiara off Jalan Ipoh,51200 Kaula Lumpur

Malaysia office : Tel: (65) 6861 8488 Fax: (65) 6898 4160Email: [email protected]: 31 Mandai Estate #02-01 Innovation Place Singapore 729933

Singapore (HQ) :

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AUTOMOTIVES

CITROEN C4 GRAND PICASSO LET THE CELEBRATIONS BEGIN

My big weekend was approaching, turning into a 40-year-old. Full of wisdom and maturity – like a fine wine, I wanted to test a vehicle that could comfortably accommodate 3 adults, 4 children and their luggage to a fun filled adventure within the capital to celebrate my birthday.

With the big weekend of my 40th approaching, I was awaiting delivery of the vehicle which would take myself and the family for a jaunt to the capital when the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso arrived on a bright Friday morning. My initial thoughts of the car, in all its electric blue, silver and chrome glory, were undoubtedly positive. It was well received when the passengers were picked up too.

The C4 Grand Picasso, in spite of its sleek good looks has clearly been designed with a degree of modesty in mind. Its aesthetics are not there to make the C4 leap out from the crowd; rather, Citroen,

having spent a lot of energy simply making this big bus more fuel efficient and aerodynamic, and added a great deal of space inside the cabin, have instead focused more on utility. Quite simply, it is just a better vehicle than that of its predecessors.

The inside of the C4 feels vast and very light. Gone are the thick pillars that would restrict visibility, to be replaced by a smaller, minimalist interior which is seemingly all glass – without exaggeration, its windscreen and enormous glass roof are the largest I have seen yet. All the seats adjust, meaning there is plenty of legroom and headroom, and the three middle seats individually recline, slide and fold.

The rear seats are a bit tight on leg room but perfect for two 11-year olds happy to busy themselves on their Iphones. The middle row of seats had plenty of legroom and were certainly fit for


purpose. There is adjustable ventilation for both the second and third rows, which is brilliant, as it can get stuffy towards the rear of a big vehicle. An odd and rather unenjoyable encounter, however, was the one I had with the massaging seats setting, which felt not unlike the kids were pushing and kicking their feet into the back of the seats every 5-seconds or so. A heated seats option would have been preferable, had the option been available.

If you don’t need the third row of seats, they store away in the floor, offering a large boot with a 632-litre capacity, a low load lip and a nice flat floor. Dropping the middle row of seats keeps the floor, again, completely flat and increases capacity to a cavernous 2181 litres. Truly, the C4 is an amazingly versatile vehicle. The boot space left over with the back seats out was a little concerning, although it did comfortably fit the 2 small suitcases and two rucksack-size bags, one of which contained my birthday beer! The automatic boot lock was fantastic, beeping as closing to securely lock in the contents. Plus, it must be noted that the car has many little clever stowaways throughout which allowed items to be hidden away neatly, almost to the point of forgetting where you put them in the first place.

It took a while to adjust to the speedometer being in the


centre, however after a few miles I had acclimatised. Citroens do everything well, but I did find the touchscreen central controls a little confusing at first. At times, like when I was opening the boot of the car, it proved to be a little unresponsive, but it simply takes a little getting used to - a long press of the key was all that was needed on that occasion. Long gone are the buttons and knobs to turn the heater up and down; now you go through the computer to control everything. We mastered most of the controls quickly but we simply couldn’t find out how many miles we had left in the tank. Another annoyance to me was the non-qwerty keyboard layout of the satellite navigation that caused my arm to ache typing in destinations. It just took an age and the destination it sent us to was wrong first time round. I could have referred to the manual, but I’m a man, so enough said!

Every Grand C4 Picasso comes with alloy wheels, Bluetooth and a six-speaker stereo with a USB socket. Parking sensors, active cruise control, rear camera and parking assist are all great features that are also available. Other than the foldable wing mirrors, a nice touch is the bright LED lights underneath the mirrors, allowing you to see the floor when you get in and out of the vehicle, along

with red LED mirror lights which flashed when cars were close by i.e. overtaking. The main lights were also superb, and changed direction of the beam when turning corners to provide the best visibility a car could offer.

I found the new C4 to be a very capable car to drive and while it’s never going to set speed records with six adults on board, it happily responded to everything I asked of it and handles securely and predictably. Would I buy the C4? Most definitely. We covered around 250 miles to London and back and I grew to love this car as did my passengers. It is so flexible that it is difficult to raise arguments against it. I guess it doesn’t have the quality feel of some other makes, but for the price it is very close to being the perfect MPV. Some of the exterior panels were made from a flexible plastic material that for one questioned how easy this would scratch further down its life.

A very nice and comfortable journey in a lovely car that returned 57mpg in real life driving, while very heavily loaded. This car was a perfect gift for me to test drive and added to my memorable weekend of fun. Citroen, I salute you.

Over the space of a little over 60-years, the name of C O Williams Construction Limited, along with that of its charismatic and formidable founder, Sir Charles Williams, has grown to become among the most instantly recognisable in the region. Quite simply, C O Williams Construction is quite rightfully regarded as one of the Caribbean’s most respected civil engineering and construction companies.


BUILDING BARBADOS


C.O. WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION LTDWWW.COW.BB1 246-436-3910

C.O. WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION LTD

When we look at any company which is overwhelmingly large and successful, it can be difficult to imagine how once this wasn’t always so. Even the greatest, most well-

known household brands started from beginnings which were to some degree humble.

The story of C O Williams is one of just what can be achieved by a company starting out from even the most modest of beginnings. Today, C O Williams, a subsidiary of Williams Industries Inc. – a vast Barbadian-based conglomerate, which as any Bajan knows is as much a household name as you’re likely to find – is one of the largest, most well-regarded civil engineering and highway construction companies operating in the Caribbean. With operations in a number of countries, including St. Lucia Antigua, in addition to its Barbadian operations, it is a one-stop shop with a list of successfully completed projects for government and private sector clients that is as diverse as it is long.

C O Williams has successfully built oil terminals and airports in St. Lucia, Bahamas, and Bequia; a hydroelectric dam in Dominica, and major highways in most countries in the Caribbean; large-scale residential builds, marina and coastal reclamation works.

“One of my strong beliefs is in the creation of sustainable development. In Barbados this has been accomplished by participating in projects such as the Bridgetown Fisheries Project, the Deep Water Harbour and Port St. Charles. In addition, many

of the major projects we have carried out in other Caribbean territories are similar in their developmental purpose. We are very proud of our contribution in this regard,” Sir Charles said.

He continued: “our resources and capabilities extend beyond construction and include quarries, asphalt production, ready mix concrete block production, concrete block production, pre-stressed & pre-cast concrete, large diameter bored excavation, low-cost housing, high-end real estate developments, and office developments.”

It’s been a busy six-decades for the company, in other words – not bad going, all in all, for a company which upon being founded by its larger-than-life founder, Sir Charles Williams, started out with nothing more than an old tractor to its name and, of course, the quite boundless ambition of its remarkable founder.

A restless and lively man of great energy which belies his years, Sir Charles Williams is today a renowned entrepreneur of consider able wealth and influence, but like that of the company he founded in 1960 his beginnings to life were humble. One of eight brothers, Sir Charles learned young from his hardworking but poor mother and father the work ethic and vigor which has propelled himself and C O Construction forward over the years. Indeed, it is these traits which one might say have acted as the foundations upon which his empire has been built – these traits, and the secondhand D6 tractor which he bought at great difficulty, of course.


Its portfolio of completed projects, during which it has built oil terminals, highways, marinas, large-scale residential builds, and laid airport runways is vast, and has set the standard for its regional rivals. Endeavour investigated this exciting company to find out more.



“I jumped at the chance to buy one. I had to borrow most of the money, but I was able to pay the deposit with my savings from selling fish and sexing chickens.

I drove that tractor myself, doing demolition and land clearing, until I got a break when I was asked to work with Costains on the new deep-water harbor,” Sir Charles said. These initial first steps, during which he made himself known proved to be the making of the company.

Over time, C O Williams Construction, then a small, hungry new entrant to the industry, grew in reputation and ability as the company increasingly found itself working as a sub-contractor for the big-name companies as they went about their work on the island. As the months and years passed, its responsibilities and remit became more expansive, to the point where the company could by all intents and purposes work autonomously. Sir Charles continued: “More international companies came looking for my services, including Mitchell Construction, McAlpines, Miller Buckley, and Wimpey. We learned our trade working alongside the big overseas boys, and that experience equipped us to go regional.”

This time spent with the big boys, during which the company served its apprenticeship and learned the tricks of the trade, proved

to be the springboard upon which today’s success has been built. It would be untrue to say that C O Williams was able to fully bridge the expertise and experience gap over this time – such a thing would be impossible, after all, taking into account the huge resources and decades of experience in completing project after giant project that the industry leaders had could call upon. Undoubtedly, however, there was a great convergence in the capability gap, to the degree that a level of parity could be achieved once C O William’s key advantage was factored in, namely its intimate local knowledge of the Barbadian land on which it plies its trade.

“Since 1960 we have worked the length and breadth of Barbados. Our knowledge of the ground conditions, climate and local materials, and the implications that these have on the construction process and project costs is more extensive than anyone else in our field.

From experience, we know best how to meet the challenge of such local conditions, and how to mitigate and adverse effects. This expertise and know-how we put to use in every project we undertake.”

Certainly, the company has built incredible strength in depth, with regards to the expertise and highly-skilled staff it can call



upon - quite contrary to the common misconception that still exists outside of the Caribbean about the region’s construction and engineering industries’ supposedly provincial capabilities.

As a 100% Bajun born and bred company capable of taking on all but the most complex mega projects, C O Williams Construction has since capitalised on this key USP to capture much of the industry market share away from its former employers. Quite aside from its better understanding of the local lands and business culture, and of course its international-level strength in depth, with regards to its employee expertise, equipment, and resources, it must be considered that Barbadians are a proud people.

It is only natural how in Barbados, and across the wider Caribbean region, for that matter, clients who have need for construction and civil engineering works, whether large or small in scale, prefer that tenders for works are won by an outfit with roots in the area.

With more bold projects on the horizon over the coming years, and with the company continuing to grow from strength to strength, we can expect to see more from this proudly Bajun business.


The hospitality trade is notorious for being high-pressure and seriously competitive, so how has Island Grill, a Jamaican-grown company, managed to rise above and set its sights on expansion? Endeavour Magazine got up close and personal to find out!

WRITTEN BY AMY BUXTON

SERVING UP GREAT BUSINESS ACUMEN


ISLAND GRILLWWW.ISLANDGRILLJA.COM

001 876 931 9869

ISLAND GRILL

Founded in 1991 by Thalia Lyn, Chicken Supreme, which would later change to Island Grill in 1998, had just one outlet, in Twin Gates. While the quality of service and food has never changed,

the size of the operation grew exponentially and a major rebranding was undertaken with a view to reflect the “…Jamaicanness in both menu and décor,” that the company so proudly exuded. But this was no mere publicity stunt that sought to play on the inherent pride of the region, as there is a deep and lasting commitment to staying local.

Celebrating 25 years of success, Island Grill now employs in excess of 600 people, making it a significant contributor to the local economy and the quality of life that so many families enjoy and the desire to always support fellow local set-ups is easy to see in the use of locally sourced ingredients,

“…we process approximately a quarter of a million pounds of locally raised chicken and fish each month. Last year, 130 tons of locally farmed carrots, cabbages, lettuces, tomatoes and yams were processed.”

Put this into a wider context and you’ll start to understand why this is so significant. Island Grill employs local people, serves up delicious, authentic Jamaican fare to locals and even sources its primary ingredients locally as well. This is more than just a food chain; this is a staple of the Jamaican economy that re-invests at every opportunity and seeks to raise the bar in terms of hospitality

standards. That’s no small feat, but then again, this is no flash-in-the-pan restaurant operation either.

You might think that the success of Island Grill is directly linked to the management team, which of course are high-powered, experienced executives that only care about the bottom line, but you’d be very wrong. While it shouldn’t come as a surprise, it is pleasantly shocking to discover that 90% of shift managers and 86% of kitchen supervisors all started in the lowest grade positions and have worked their way up, through the company, thanks to their knowledge and experience gained directly on the shop floor. Many go on to become full restaurant managers and commissary managers as well, as the progression opportunities are there and Island Grill has a commitment to promoting from within, a development technique that many other operations could take inspiration from.

With a team of dedicated staff members in place, a reputation that so many competitors can only dream of attaining and a desire to keep growing, Island Grill is looking to expand its menu to include new and exciting flavours that will have hungry patrons coming back for more,

“At Island Grill, we use our own unique combination of these very same spices on our chicken, pork and fish to create an authentic jerk taste. But wait - mi bredrin, can’t stand the heat? Island Grill serves up other island dishes that give you the big taste

ISLAND GRILL

There’s something rather special about local companies that start at the bottom and carve untouchable reputations through nothing more innovative than plain, old fashioned, hard work and that’s exactly what Island Grill has done. Now one of the favourite chains in the Caribbean, it would be easy to rest up, maybe even get a little complacent, but the team is set on a programme of expansion that means there is no room for anything less than 100% commitment. If you can’t keep up, Island Grill is not the place for you to start a lifelong career, but the beginnings of the company were a lot more humble.


ISLAND GRILL

of the Caribbean. Our own special BBQ, rice and peas, curries and stews have all the goodness that makes island cooking delicious and exciting.”

The authenticity is incredible, don’t you think? There is such pride and authenticity running through every menu item and with jerk pork having just been added to the extensive offerings, there is no sign of the company slowing down or stagnating. In fact, following the successful opening of a new branch last year, even more are in the planning phase, despite the huge investment that each commissary requires,

“Our new commissary opened in December last year with approximately 13,000 square feet of storage and 12 temperature-controlled production areas. It took two years of planning, $200 million in investment and has created 32 new jobs,”

There’s something familiar, nostalgic and even a little romantic about Island Grill. It offers food that has all the love and flavour of homecooked meals, but with added convenience and ambience, which naturally makes it the first choice for meals out. Add in a sweet back story and suddenly, you have a chain that everybody in the region feels connected to. Lyn explained,

“My father had won a premium bond and used it to purchase

some 42 acres of land, most of which has now been sold for development into what later became Valentine Gardens. The Island Grill headquarters occupies some of the property.”

Green initiatives, such as the replacing of plastic food trays with biodegradable cardboard packaging and community outreach programmes are another string to the bow of Island Grill, but they poccur quietly and modestly, in the background. That’s an unusual step, as so many large companies seek to publicise their good deeds, but let’s not forget that this is a chain with a difference. This is THE local restaurant, run by and for locals, so grandiose gestures, while generous, need not be shouted about as it’s the food and atmosphere that are the really important factors.

We wouldn’t go so far as to call Island Grill a company that fought tooth and nail for everything it has, but a little bit of good fortune at ththan just a dream. It lead to the creation of a market leader with more than a little heart at its centre and we can’t wait to see how the operation continues to improve the commercial landscape of Jamaica.

ISLAND GRILL

RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

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Drive-thru customers expect rapid service. Keep lines moving with an OCB solution that displays pictures of food items, offers related suggestions and provides a dollar total for each order.

• Drivingproductsaleswithcustomizedmarketing

Provide customers with new promotions or cross-sell and up-sell messages at the point of purchase. Targeted marketing can increase average check size, enhancing customer profitability.

• Keepingproductoffersrelevantwithdayparting

Automatically switch images with each daypart that you designate, keeping your message fresh and relevant. Tempt customers with breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night offers that meet their needs.

• Enhancingcustomersatisfaction

Provide customers with easy-to-use, visual drive-thru services that streamline food selection and payment. The NCR Accuview Order Confirmation Board helps customers make fast decisions – so that they can get on their way.

NCR Accuview Order Confirmation Board

NCRAccuviewOrderConfirmationBoardQuick-ServiceRestaurants

Formoreinformation,call1-877-794-7237oremail

[email protected].

Want to improve order accuracy and speed-of-service with an eye-catching order confirmation board?Reliable, relevant POS terminals developed to meet

your requirements The P1530 are the newest products within NCR’s mainstream line of POS terminals for the hospitality industry. The highlights of its open platform include a highly-efficient Intel Atom processor for greater performance, a bright 1024X768 LED color main display with a resistive or surface capacitive touch screen, lower power consumption and a reliable, stylish design. The mainstream POS terminals have been engineered and manufactured to provide sustainability, non-stop reliability, maximum uptimes and a low total cost of ownership.

• ServecustomersfasterThe NCR mainstream POS terminals combine superior processing power with top reliability. Increase your speed of service without sacrificing ease of use for your staff.

• GainproductstabilityBy using Intel’s embedded processor family, the P1530 offer product stability for many years unlike the traditional consumer devices that have short processor life spans. This provides a consistent configuration which is critical for rollouts that might last several years.

• InstallitanywhereOur mainstream terminals can be used anywhere you need them, with rugged enclosures, fanless configurations and solid-state technology that can withstand spills without interrupting service.

• ConnectittoeverythingSeveral connectivity options are offered, including four RJ12, three standard USB, one powered USB 12V and more. Connect directly to all the devices you need to serve your customers quickly and at low cost.

• AddcustomerdisplaystoengageyourcustomersOur 2x20 customer displays enable your customers to view orders, increasing order accuracy.

NCR Mainstream POS Terminals

NCR Green - C=69, M=0, Y=100, K=0

NCR Platinum - C=10, M=1, Y=0, K=40

Experience a new world of interaction

NCRMainstreamPOSTerminalsForthehospitalityindustry

Formoreinformation,visitwww.ncr.com,

[email protected].

Looking for non-stop reliability, innovative design and a low total cost of ownership?

We have been researching POS systems for years and it became clear that Aloha/NCR was the best system for Island Grill. Our top two concerns were tailoring the program to suit our operational needs, and to leverage the technology as much as possible. The team at Touchpoint Hospitality has been very professional and responsive in their support and finding solutions for us. We are very happy with our choice of POS as well as partnering with Chad and his team.

Our Aloha POS system gives us real-time access to sales and inventory in the stores and the biometric hardware provides the extra security needed for enterprise cash management.


RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

+1-876-649-0633 [email protected] www.touchpointhospitality.com

OUR WIDE RANGE OF RESTAURANT SOLUTIONS INCLUDE:

• POS Software • Inventory Management Software • Kitchen Production Software • Business Intelligence & Marketing • Employee Theft Deterrence • Security Services

• Hospitality Hardware • POS Terminals • Handheld POS Devices • Kitchen Display Systems • Drive Thru Systems • Menu Board Systems • Monitoring Devices

Providers of advanced hospitality technology throughout the

Caribbean and Latin America.

Graphic displays decrease order errors and grow product salesNCR Accuview Order Confirmation Board (OCB) helps quick-service restaurant managers and owners improve order accuracy and speed-of-service, while up-selling and cross-selling customers on related menu items. Meanwhile, customers value the solution’s graphic displays, product suggestions and running totals. Benefits include:

• Improvingorderaccuracy

Provide customers with a running total of items they’ve ordered and their prices to ensure order accuracy. Decreasing costly drive-thru errors strengthens restaurant margins.

• Acceleratingspeed-of-service

Drive-thru customers expect rapid service. Keep lines moving with an OCB solution that displays pictures of food items, offers related suggestions and provides a dollar total for each order.

• Drivingproductsaleswithcustomizedmarketing

Provide customers with new promotions or cross-sell and up-sell messages at the point of purchase. Targeted marketing can increase average check size, enhancing customer profitability.

• Keepingproductoffersrelevantwithdayparting

Automatically switch images with each daypart that you designate, keeping your message fresh and relevant. Tempt customers with breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night offers that meet their needs.

• Enhancingcustomersatisfaction

Provide customers with easy-to-use, visual drive-thru services that streamline food selection and payment. The NCR Accuview Order Confirmation Board helps customers make fast decisions – so that they can get on their way.

NCR Accuview Order Confirmation Board

NCRAccuviewOrderConfirmationBoardQuick-ServiceRestaurants

Formoreinformation,call1-877-794-7237oremail

[email protected].

Want to improve order accuracy and speed-of-service with an eye-catching order confirmation board?Reliable, relevant POS terminals developed to meet

your requirements The P1530 are the newest products within NCR’s mainstream line of POS terminals for the hospitality industry. The highlights of its open platform include a highly-efficient Intel Atom processor for greater performance, a bright 1024X768 LED color main display with a resistive or surface capacitive touch screen, lower power consumption and a reliable, stylish design. The mainstream POS terminals have been engineered and manufactured to provide sustainability, non-stop reliability, maximum uptimes and a low total cost of ownership.

• ServecustomersfasterThe NCR mainstream POS terminals combine superior processing power with top reliability. Increase your speed of service without sacrificing ease of use for your staff.

• GainproductstabilityBy using Intel’s embedded processor family, the P1530 offer product stability for many years unlike the traditional consumer devices that have short processor life spans. This provides a consistent configuration which is critical for rollouts that might last several years.

• InstallitanywhereOur mainstream terminals can be used anywhere you need them, with rugged enclosures, fanless configurations and solid-state technology that can withstand spills without interrupting service.

• ConnectittoeverythingSeveral connectivity options are offered, including four RJ12, three standard USB, one powered USB 12V and more. Connect directly to all the devices you need to serve your customers quickly and at low cost.

• AddcustomerdisplaystoengageyourcustomersOur 2x20 customer displays enable your customers to view orders, increasing order accuracy.

NCR Mainstream POS Terminals

NCR Green - C=69, M=0, Y=100, K=0

NCR Platinum - C=10, M=1, Y=0, K=40

Experience a new world of interaction

NCRMainstreamPOSTerminalsForthehospitalityindustry

Formoreinformation,visitwww.ncr.com,

[email protected].

Looking for non-stop reliability, innovative design and a low total cost of ownership?

We have been researching POS systems for years and it became clear that Aloha/NCR was the best system for Island Grill. Our top two concerns were tailoring the program to suit our operational needs, and to leverage the technology as much as possible. The team at Touchpoint Hospitality has been very professional and responsive in their support and finding solutions for us. We are very happy with our choice of POS as well as partnering with Chad and his team.

Our Aloha POS system gives us real-time access to sales and inventory in the stores and the biometric hardware provides the extra security needed for enterprise cash management.

AMAZING WORLD

‘RELAMPAGO DEL CATATUMBO’ THE ETERNAL STORM, VENEZUELA

If ever you’ve ever found yourself wondering what it would be like to experience a violent thunderstorm that seemingly never ends, you need look no further than Venezuela – the home of

yet another of planet earth’s more mysterious natural wonders, to find out.

Where the Catatumbo River mouth meets the vast Lake Maracaibo in Zulia state, situated at the northern tip of the country, can be found the ‘Relámpago del Catatumbo,’ or Catatumbo Lightning, a unique atmospheric phenomenon that has captivated tourists and locals for countless generations.

Quite simply, the Catatumbo Lightning, whilst not technically an eternal storm in the literal sense, is not far from it. The cacophony of noise and explosive power is truly startling in its intensity. For between 200 to 300 days a year, the storm produces an average of 28 strikes of lightning per minute for up to 10 hours at a time. At peak activity, the storm can unleash up to 3,600 bolts of lightning per hour, or roughly one strike per second during particularly explosive displays - this equates to upwards of 40,000 lightning strikes in a single night.

This lightning is not only produced in excessively large amounts,


but is also astonishingly powerful, with each bolt potentially charged up to 400,00 amps – far, far beyond that of your average lightning strike. This staggeringly potent lightning is also incredibly bright and constant; so much so, in fact, that it is visible from up to 250-miles away, as a haunting flickering glow on the horizon.

Nowhere else on earth does lightning strike in such concentrations and with such relentless ferocity. Interestingly, however, this most wild and untamed of thunderstorms is as

predictable as it is brutal, occurring in the exact same place, starting practically on cue at roughly the same time, every day, around an hour or so after dusk.

The Catatumbo Lightning phenomenon has been well-known for centuries. Local Venezuelans from the region historically called it rib a-ba - the ‘river of fire,’ and revered it as a sign from the gods. Later, during the colonial period of the Caribbean, the highly visible light show was used as a means of navigation by sailors, who called it ‘The Lighthouse of Catatumbo,’ and the ‘Maracaibo Beacon.’

Scientists believe that Catatumbo, named for a river that runs into the lake, is in fact normal lightning that, due to the area’s local topography and wind patterns, just happens to occur far more in this particular area than anywhere else. The Lake Maracaibo basin is surrounded on virtually all sides by mountains that capture warm trade winds coming off the Caribbean, which then crash into the cool air which spills down from the Andes, forcing the conflicting winds up until they condense into thunderclouds.


Wild, rugged, and yet immeasurable in its outstanding natural beauty, Africa is the literal cradle of life, from where much of the world’s animal and plant life first originated, and where mankind first began its march to civilisation.


WALK ON THE WILD SIDE


MARASA AFRICAWWW.MARASA.NET00256 312 260260/1

MARASA AFRICA

Taking into account its spectacular and wholly unrivalled bounty of natural gifts, it is little wonder how thousands of tourists travel from every corner of the globe to East Africa each year

for the opportunity to leave their busy lives behind and sample the authentic African experience.

The Marasa Africa story is the culmination of a journey which began over a century ago in Uganda. From the humblest of beginnings, the company has grown from strength-to-strength with the passing of the years. Where once adventurers and tourists would visit its singular property, a sleepy, lodge in the heart of Uganda’s leading game reserve, today, tourists can stay at one of seven luxury camps, homesteads, and lodges located across the Uganda and Kenya, and soon Rwanda and the idyllic island paradise of Zanzibar.

“Marasa Africa offers bespoke experiences in its properties in various national parks in East Africa with efficient personalised services. We operate regionally with a strong brand positioning in East Africa. Our legacy Lodges in Kenya and Uganda have provided us with the platform to expand within the region. We have been operating for several years in the region. This gives our guests and partners the peace of mind when booking and staying at our lodges.”

A member of the Madhvani Group of Companies, one of the largest private-sector groups in East Africa, Marasa is widely regarded to be one of East Africa’s premiere Safari Hotel Groups

MARASA AFRICA

East Africa in particular is a richly bio-diverse land with a captivating array of wildlife species, and the sweeping golden savannahs, soaring snow-tipped peaks, and expanse of lush, rich rainforests that are home to them. Unique and all but unspoiled – its wilderness untouched by the oft withering hand of human development. A place where one can still reach out and see, smell, touch, and reconnect with nature in its purest, most spiritual form.

Land Cruiser 70 SeriesDriving beyond all expectations

HEAD OFFICE: Plot 1, First Street, Industrial Area, Kampala. Tel: 031 2301 500, Email: [email protected] Web: www.toyota.co.ug

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Tel: 039 2260 035 Tel: 039 2698 729 @TOYOTA

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GULU: MBALE:



Tel: 039 2260 035 Tel: 039 2698 729 @TOYOTA




GULU: MBALE:



Tel: 039 2260 035 Tel: 039 2698 729 @TOYOTA




GULU: MBALE:



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MARASA AFRICA

– an accolade which, as the recipient of the 2015 Best Luxury Hotel gong in only last year’s Tourism Excellence Awards, it is fully deserving of.

As a company which is recognised as one of the industry leaders in its field, and a pioneer with regards to employee recruitment and training, Marasa Africa is one of the largest, most diversified private-sector employers in East Africa, employing hundreds of people, and providing a livelihood, both directly and indirectly, to many more individuals in Uganda alone. Not that its growth over the years has changed the distinctly family business approach to doing business, however:

“Despite our diversity and size, our family business continues to be proudly African and we continue to recognize the key values that have contributed to our success by embracing the stakeholders and communities in which we operate as our destiny is entwined with theirs. We strive to engage with and empower these communities and ensure that we may continue to grow hand in hand with them wherever possible.”

Marasa Africa’s Managing Director Mayur Madhvani, the company’s mission is simple: “Our vision to share our breath-taking country with those from beyond our borders and far away shores, led us to acquire and develop what we felt to be locations of outstanding natural beauty. Each of these properties also represents the combination of the very best of what there is to offer at these destinations. All of our hospitality properties have been consolidated under Marasa Holdings, and as we expect to grow, Marasa will be one of the largest providers of high quality, comfortable, charming safari lodges in East Africa.”

Whether Uganda or Kenya, Marasa Africa has sought to ensure that both destinations captivate their guests, ensuring memories of a magical stay which will last a lifetime. Each of Marasa Africa’s seven separate resorts offer a uniquely enchanting stay, but they all share something in common, however – the guarantee that a stay with Marasa will offer world-class service, and an eclectic blend of luxury and adventure.

MARASA AFRICA

THE ABERDARE

COUNTRY CLUBOnly a two and a half

hour drive northeast from Nairobi, The Aberdare Country Club is nestled on a slope of Mweiga Hill in the Aberdare Highlands, part of the Great Rift Valley. This captivating site was the homestead of an English couple that decided to settle in Kenya. Almost a half century later, their home, “The Steep”, was renamed the Aberdare Country Club and opened for guests. Considered a heritage property in Kenya, The Aberdare Country Club has retained the charm of a private home with the simple comforts of a country inn. It will take visitors back to a time when life proceeded at a far more leisurely, gentle pace.www.aberdarecountryclub.com

MARA LEISURE

CAMPSet in what is widely

regarded to be Kenya’s prime wildlife area, Mara Leisure Camp is located along the Talek River at the confluence of the Masai Mara’s four wildlife viewing areas, on the northern boundary of the Masai Mara Game Reserve.

Mara Leisure Camp is located within one of the most spectacular locations in the entire Masai Mara Game Reserve. One of the most exciting spectacles in the world is that of the ‘Great Migration’, where two million wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores pass through the Masai Mara/Serengeti ecosystem in Kenya and Tanzania. This is a perilous migration for the animals, where they encounter many river crossings, and have to run the gauntlet of crocodiles in waiting.www.maraleisurecamp.co.ke

THE ARK

Set in the heart of the Aberdare National Park, it is an iconic and, yes, quirky vacation spot. The Ark overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, which attracts an incredible host of wildlife. Modelled after Noah’s Ark, The Ark has four viewing decks with balconies and lounges to provide superb game viewing from the comfort of the lodge. For visitors, the animals come to you!www.thearkkenya.com

FIVE STAR LODGE CHOBE

SAFARI LODGE Located in the Murchison

Falls National Park, this Five Star lodge is undoubtedly the gem in Uganda’s crown of tourism destinations. The breath taking panoramic views, coupled with the sounds of the River Nile’s magnificent rapids, sets the scene for an adventure that will impress even the most discerning of visitors.

Chobe Safari Lodge offers a unique opportunity to sample the wildlife, birds, flora and fauna; all in an area of the park that has yet to be discovered. This area of Murchison Falls National Park is ideal for fishing, and will revive this newly refurbished lodge to become one of the best fishing destinations in Africa.www.chobelodgeuganda.com


MWEYA

SAFARI LODGEMweya Safari Lodge offers

visitors an unforgettable experience. Located on a peninsula within the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mweya Safari Lodge is surrounded by the magical Rwenzori Mountains, aptly described as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’.

To the east, lie the guardians of the birthplace of mankind, the Great Rift Valley hills, separated from the Mountains of the Moon by the meandering Kazinga Channel. Here the water flows endlessly into two giant lakes – Lake George and Lake Edward.www.mweyalodge.com

PARAA

SAFARI LODGEEstablished in 1954, Paraa

Safari Lodge is set in Murchison Falls National Park. The lodge is located in the north west of Uganda overlooking one of nature’s best kept secrets, the River Nile, on its journey from its source at Lake Victoria to join Lake Albert.

Paraa Safari Lodge offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and adventure. Each of the rooms is a haven of style and serenity, complete with balcony and private bathroom.

The safari décor of the lodge still reflects the bygone era of early explorers, enshrined with a modern touch. The luxurious pool overlooks the winding River Nile below. Enjoy a variety of excursions and activities; from exhilarating Safari drives to boat trips along the River Nile, ending at the foot of Murchison Falls.www.paraalodge.com

SILVERBACK

LODGEThe latest addition to the

Marasa Africa properties is Silverback Lodge, located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in western Uganda. Silverback Lodge is only a 5-minute walk to the national park and has sweeping views of the valley and forests that surround it.

The lodge has sweeping views of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - a 124-square-mile UNESCO site home to approximately 350 mountain gorillas (half of the world’s remaining population), non-habituated chimpanzees, more than 100 other species of mammals, 346 species of birds, and 163 species of trees.www.silverbacklodge.com

While Marasa, much like its peers and rivals, has experienced a troubled few years, during which it has been affected by events beyond its control including the distressing rise in terrorist activity in the region, and the Ebola crisis in Western Africa, 2016 proved to be a positive year. All being well, it is anticipated that 2017, which will see the opening of new luxury camps atop the falls in Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, and expansion into neighbouring Rwanda and Zanzibar, will see Marasa build further on what has been a 12-months of roaring trade.

These are exciting times for the company, and there is no better time to embrace Marasa Africa for a whirlwind romance with nature. At Marasa Africa, it is always an affair to remember. There’s a big, wild world out there – why not reach out to it?

With an annual turnover in excess of N$500 million, and a proven capability to deliver a range of projects across all scales and formats to clients in a diverse selection of markets, Nexus Group is understandably recognised as Namibia’s leading building and civil construction group.

WRITTEN BY JASPER MILVAIN

EXCEED AND DELIVER


NEXUS GROUPWWW.NEXUSGROUP.COM.NA

264 67 313 770

NEXUS GROUP

As a company with a solid footprint in all 14 regions of Namibia, involved in all areas of civil construction and engineering works for both government and private sector clients, Nexus

Group has forged a reputation as the go-to company for projects large and small alike.

Comprised of three business units that operate across their geographical areas of operation, all of which are registered as separate operating companies, Nexus is a unique, in that operates something of a decentralised business model. However, although each of these divisions operate autonomously, these business units frequently cross-collaborate on projects when the need arises.

Their Civil Division has capabilities spanning the spectrum of national infrastructure including municipal infrastructure such as environmental rehabilitation, servicing of infrastructure, water storage reservoirs, municipal roads and stormwater drainage. Transport infrastructure initiatives including roads, bridges, gravel roads, airport terminals, aprons and runways, labour based projects and railways are also a speciality.

The Building Division covers the full range of conventional construction, providing infrastructure including hospitals, airports, retail and development of parking lots, residential, office accommodation, educational institutions, stadia, hotels and leisure and industrial facilities. They also undertake select residential developments for major institutions and industrial clients as well as low cost and affordable housing for the public sector.

Plant and Equipment is continually invested in to maintain the high level of service and support to their stakeholders and keep up with the continuous demand for excellence. Either by regularly

maintaining or upgrading their fleet, they are able to ensure that they are always in the best position to deliver.

Organic growth has played a significant part in the expansion of Nexus. In Namibia, they operate in all construction related industries including roads and earthworks, property and concessions, mining services as well as the construction and building sectors. Additionally, the company’s operations cover smaller scale works such as shop fittings, refurbishments and construction. Having come to dominate the Namibian market in such an all-encompassing fashion, the company is now targeting further expansion into Africa. This falls in line with their overall vision, which is to not only consolidate its standing as the flagship construction industry in Namibia, but grow into a regional player with operations beyond its own borders.

EXCEEDING CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONSNexus Group is a dedicated leader in providing excellent, value

added construction services to their customers, in order to exceed customer expectations. To achieve this, the company has in place a number of objectives that govern their actions and decisions on a day-to-day basis. They are all equally important and include; focusing on continuous and sustainable top and bottom line growth, creating a desirable place to work, being a natural home for creativity and enthusiasm and offering a safe working environment to strengthen human capital through training and development for the growth of the organisation so as to benefit shareholders and other stakeholders.

For Nexus, their 700 employees are the driving force behind the

NEXUS GROUP

Operating in sectors that include infrastructure, road and earthworks, property and concessions, mining services, interior fit out and the construction and building sector, there are few areas that Nexus Group doesn’t feature in.


NEXUS GROUP

business and the source of all their capabilities and achievements. Their country-wide presence and expansion beyond their borders would not be possible were it not for each of its highly skilled staff members.

A KEY MEMBER OF THE NAMIBIAN CONSTRUCTION

INDUSTRY FEDERATIONOne of the key reasons for the company’s success and diverse

offering is their strength when it comes to tendering, which is enhanced by their membership within the Namibian Construction Industry Federation – an organisation which acts as the mouthpiece for Namibia’s construction industry, and has played a major role in building the country’s economic prosperity over the space of 60 years.

As a member of CIF, Nexus is in very good company. Included in the group are multi-national building and civil contractors, though the bulk consists of smaller contractors and SME’s. Members also include the retail and wholesale building material trade, along with many other manufacturers and suppliers of construction materials and equipment that serve the sector. It also represents

specialist trades such as electricians, joiners, plumbers, painters and steelworkers, among others. Furthermore, as CIF is an autonomous, non-governmental and apolitical organisation, an Executive Committee comprised of volunteer members elected at the Federation’s annual general meeting governs the group and the committee is elected from a variety of construction-related sectors, thereby enabling the Federation to speak authoritatively on behalf of all its members.

BEE PARTICIPATIONAs a company, Nexus is motivated by the potential that can

be harnessed through embracing diversity and incorporating empowerment into its business culture. The company has surpassed the implementation of the Black Economic Empowerment policy in Namibia, and worked to empower previously disadvantaged groups and communities. This policy presents an effective solution to addressing historic economic and social inequities, and to this end Nexus supports the BEE Policy and actively participates in its implementation.

PO Box 11588, Windhoek, Namibia Tel: + 264 855505032 or + 264 855508158Fax: + 264 0886557339E-mail : [email protected]

Supply & Delivery of:

ā Sand

ā Stone 19mm & 13mm

ā Garden Stone

ā Garden Soil

ā Crusher Dust

ā G5, G6, G7, G8

NEXUS GROUP


MANAGEMENTThe company employs a flat and hands-on management

structure, which is led by a managing director together with his management. Both are based at the head office Outjo with the administration staff varying from finance, purchasing, human resources, payroll as well as quantity surveying and tendering.

Each of the two construction divisions are led by a General Maager, ie. Jan Hendrick Engelbrecht (Building) and Johan Smit (Civil) who operate from the company’s satellite office in Ongwediva, while the plant hire division is operating from ehe Oluno workshop is managed by paul Schoonbee. The remainder of the team consists of highly skilled technicians, site agents, foremen and artisans who are operating from various sites across the country.

INTEGRITY AND EXCELLENCETo conclude, Nexus Group is not a business purely focused

on the bottom line, but one dedicated to the improvement of the lives of everyone associated with them. Their values represent an understanding of what it takes to be not only achieve success, but keep achieving it.

NAMCLAY CLAY BRICKS The benefits should be more than just about looks.

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www.namclay.com

Tel: +264 (0)64 504 126 Fax: +264 (0)64 504 223 Cell: +264 (0)81 129 [email protected] PO Box 48, Uis, Namibia

Namclay Bricks & Pavers is the biggest Clay brick manufacturer in Namibia with many distributors located in Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvisbay, Ondangwa, Oshikati , Grootfontein and Keetmanshoop. All the Clay Bricks are manufactured in Uis and are made out of natural materials. Our clay bricks are SABS approved, environmentally friendly and maintenance free.

NAMCLAY CLAY BRICKS The benefits should be more than just about looks.

Made by Namibiansfor... everyone!

• NamibianClayBricksmadeinUis• Withstandsourclimate• Claybricksarefireandsoundproof• Forbuildingandpaving• Buildings,largeandsmall• Maintenancefree,stronganddurable• Partoftheenvironmentallyfriendlyinitiative• Deliveredcountrywide

www.namclay.com

Tel: +264 (0)64 504 126 Fax: +264 (0)64 504 223 Cell: +264 (0)81 129 [email protected] PO Box 48, Uis, Namibia


There is a natural propensity for looking at a finished product and giving no thought to the innovative infrastructure that made it a possibility, but INSS-POL is a market leader in stainless steel installations that deserves a closer look, so Endeavour Magazine set about finding out more.

WRITTEN BY AMY BUXTON

MAINTAINING A STEELY GAZE


INSS-POL SP. Z O.O.WWW.INSS-POL.PL

48 71 362 90 00

INSS-POL SP. ZOO

While lesser operations might have sought to dilute the know-how of their material by embarking on a programme of diversification, INSS-POL has maintained a tight grip on

its interests and sought to specialise in targeted installations,“We carry out work in food industry factories and manufacturing

sites: in the brewery, fruit and vegetable processing and dairy industries. In addition to this, the area of our activities covers the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and chemical industries, as well as environmental protection, in particular effluent treatment plants and water treatment stations. We accompany the client through all stages of execution; from the design phase, through prefabrication and assembly, to the commissioning of equipment and entire process lines.”

While this might sound like a lot of areas to cover, each flows into the other with a natural grace an aplomb, meaning that consistently high standards and new developments are easy to implement and control. It’s when you learn of the geographical reach of INSS-Pol that things start to get really impressive though,

“We run our business in the local Lower Silesia market and all over Poland, in Europe, and also in the countries of Asia, Africa and South America. Regardless of where we work, we maintain the highest standards compliant with the ISO 9001:2008 quality assurance system.”

This is no homegrown operation that saves the best quality

work for close proximity projects, rather, INSS-POL has set out to be the very standard by which all stainless steel applications and installations are measured and the bar is high. With a firm grasp on safety protocols and client satisfaction, no corners can be cut, especially when you consider how high-value some of the products being produced within the steel installations are. Cosmetics, for example, is one of the largest grossing markets throughout the world, meaning that the processes and equipment used to produce them need to be perfect from start to finish. When an end product is to be consumed or applied topically, there is no margin for error, but that’s not a concern for INSS-POL, as the company has directed its steely gaze to monitor all things quality and safety critical, right through to employee wellbeing,

“In the company, we focus on safety, therefore we follow any binding standards concerning H&S regulations. With respect to employee protection, we have taken actions to ensure that each of them receives VCA certification. We are aiming to obtain VCA certification also for our Company. INSS-POL follows any and all binding legal regulations in the area of environment protection according to requirements of directive 96/61/WE imposed by the Environment Protection Law Act of 27th April 2001. We improve employees’ ecological awareness by ensuring participation in external training in the field of environmental protection and internal courses lead by the company. We take care to maintain the

INSS-POL SP. Z O.O.

Established in 1995, INSS-POL is celebrating more than 20 years in the stainless steel industry and has an impeccable record to show for all the hard work and innovative solutions that it has supplied in those two decades.


INSS-POL SP. ZOO

highest quality standards. In order to control the quality of our work, we cooperate with accredited laboratories and our employees have licences to evaluate the quality of welding work.”

Employee safety, pride in workmanship and environmental concerns. How many companies can you name that genuinely and passionately enforce such stringent standards? It’s impressive and just one of the reasons that INSS-POL remains so far ahead of many competitors in the field, alongside its desire to always be looking for new, innovative solutions that will improve operations,

“...Steel ahead! This is the expression of our readiness for continuous development and remaining a leader in our trade. Extending the scope of activities, extending the group of business partners and clients satisfied with their cooperation with us. The green colour symbolises care for the natural environment and the pun shows our love for steel. We are one step ahead of competitors, always one step further...”

You have to love a company that takes its endeavours seriously, but still has a sense of humour! There’s nothing funny about the awards that INSS-POL has been given though, nor the impressive projects that they have completed.

Each industry that INSS-POL works with has strict compliance standards and a unique set of needs, but for a company as dynamic and reactive as this one, that’s no problem. For example, dealing with brewery installations is a complex task that requires prefabrication, assembly and installation of pipelines and tanks that won’t affect the custom flavours of the beers being brewed in them. Having completed a programme of brewery modernisations in Poland, brand new breweries have also been built in Spain, Germany, Holland, Nigeria and Tunisia. This might sound complicated enough, but add in all the other industries that INSS-POL is in the thick of, and the project management skills of the team really come to light,

“From coffee and chocolate, to French fries and carbonated beverages... Our clients include both enormous concerns as well as smaller family enterprises. We have been running businesses in the food industry for years and the scope of work covers all stages of execution, from design to the commissioning of machines. We have created plants for chewing gum, chocolate, coffee, beverage, food fragrances, chips and many other factories.”

Imagine what a catastrophe it would be if biotechnology installations and food production projects were mixed up! But that’s

INSS-POL SP. ZOO


not something that will EVER happen, as INSS-POL has its finger not only on the pulse in terms of the stainless steel industry as a whole, but also at a more grass roots level for managing numerous projects all at once.

It takes a special type of company to make a global name for itself within just 20 years, but INSS-POL has managed exactly that by never compromising, not resting and being unwilling to complete work to anything less than its self-imposed standards. We look forward to learning about exciting developments within the company in the coming years and have no doubt that its reputation will remain as untarnished as the stainless steel it works with.


january 2017

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