It seems like only yesterday that we celebrated our 15th anniversary. Time really does appear to pass quickly, especially when one is focused enthusiastically on objectives and achievements. It’s somewhat unbelievable that five years have passed and we have now reached our 20th anniversary. The excitement, challenges, opportunities, successes, and admittedly some minor misses, have spurred us all along at a pace which has made the passage of time seem a distant concern.
As we mark this 20th anniversary milestone our successes underscore, with confidence and determination, our abilities to identify and respond to the challenges and needs of our industry. However every success brings humility, because we must never take things for granted. We have learnt from our experiences and we must continue to do so. I applaud our clients and partners as they have always stood strong, walking alongside us, with their encouragement and support.
We are also able to look back and gain strength – strength which will enable us to navigate any unchartered stronger currents ahead. Shipping continues to be our passion and this drives our pledge to uphold our values of respect, honour and commitment in an unfaltering manner. These values, that have played a major role in our success, will stay with us because they are at the heart of C.S.S.
This anniversary, like many others, provides a starting point from where we will use our skills and experiences to grow, continuing to prove to the world that our enduring values will remain steadfastly with us in the years to come. Our partners, stakeholders, associates, and equally our trusted staff, will hopefully be enthused and encouraged by our commitment to always do what we preach.
We wish to extend our sincere thanks to the ministry of the UAE, all officials, and the various government departments at this occasion. Also my hearty congratulations are expressed to everyone at C.S.S. on our 20th anniversary.
Consolidated Shipping Group will be celebrating their 20th anniversary of operations in the field of Shipping and logistics during the month of March 2015. The entire team at CSS is enthusiastic at this land mark occasion, as they see this as a great success in their company’s career. The senior management announced the function last month and preparations are underway to make the event memorable. 20th anniversary celebrations are being held both in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The new Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights is the venue in Dubai where the conferences and meetings are going to happen. In Abu Dhabi, The Club will host a carnival theme party on the 14th March for the Global Partners and associates of CSS Group. In connection with the 20th anniversary celebrations, CSS will be organizing a Golf Event in which golfers from the Shipping and Logistics fraternity from around the world will participate. Some of professional golfers from Dubai are also expected to participate in this event. The event is organized at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht club on the 12th March 2015. A company which was started 20 years back as a small firm with minimum staff strength to cater to the logistics requirements in Dubai has grown to become one of the most sought after names in the field of freight forwarding and logistics today. With diversified operational presence within the shipping and logistics industry, CSS caters to a cross section of business community around the globe. From NVOCC to Projects and from Relocations to Heavy Equipment logistics, the company with the professional and skilled team designated for each department, touches every point related to Shipping and logistics. More than 800 people today work with CSS Group in the Middle East and the Indian Sub-continent. CSS group offices in the Middle East and the Sub-continent join hands to make the 20th anniversary celebrations memorable. The senior management and the Chairman, Mr. T S Kaladharan extends all their gratitude to the Government of UAE, their loyal customers, valued partners and most importantly their trusted employees for the unconditional support showered on them for the last two decades.
CSS STARTS ITS OPERATIONS FROM AHMEDABAD Console Shipping Services India has started their operations from Ahmedabad, one of the fastest growing cities in India. Being strategically positioned in Ahmedabad, CSS India will be easily able to access and control the operations of cargo movements at Pipavav, Mundra and Hazira Port. Also they will have access to LCD Dashrath, Baroda and LCD Ankleshwar. Ahmedabad is centrally located in Gujarat where major development programmes are progressing. The cargo movements to all ports are possible via road and rail from here. Container Corporation of India handles the rail movement of cargo while truck movements are quite common in the region. Major shipping companies confirm their presence in Ahmedabad to have control over the North Western region of India where in and out movements of cargo are frequent and fast growing. CSS India will initially have LCL, FCL and Air Freight movements in and around Ahmedabad. They have set up road map to gradually increase their geographical reach in the North Western area. The well-established Mumbai office of the CSS will be a major advantage for the Ahmedabad team with proper guidance and professional support. Ahmedabad office of CSS will be headed by Kaushik Mali, who is quite confident in his professionalism and the ability of his team. Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd. established in the year 2004 with its operations from Tirupur, Tuticorin and Coimbatore, further expanded its horizons in the year 2007. In an ever increasing demand stuffed industry, Console Shipping Services India has proved to be delivering the best to the clients around the globe. CSS India operates from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Tirupur, Tuticorin, Coimbatore, Banaglore and Cochin serving a cross section of clients from diversified industries. CSS Offers the below services from India
LCL Consolidation & FCL
Sea-Air/ Sea- Land Transportation
Sea freight
Buyers consolidation
Air freight
Customs clearance
Projects Handling
Warehousing
Supply chain management & Logistics
CSS Ahmedabad office address: Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd. 904-Shree Balaji Heights B/S-IDBI Bank, Nr. Body Line C.G.Road, Ellisbridge Ahmedabad-380 006 Key Contact: Mr. Kaushik Mali, Regional Head
E-mail Id: kaushikm@cssindiagroup.com
Tel: +91 79 40390800/02/03/04
Mobile: +91 95864 20770
WORLD CARGO ALLIANCE CONFERENCE WAS HELD AT HONG KONG CSS India was a part of the 7th WCA Worldwide Conference which was held from 2-5 February at the Asia World Expo adjacent to Hong Kong Airport which comprised of all 4 of WCA’s general networks within one major event. The conference was treated as an integral part of the WCA Conference Week and is a must for all members of the WCA. Attending the conference is undoubtedly the single most productive way to boost revenues, expand the company, reach out to new markets and raise the company’s profile around the globe. WCA conference is treated as a great business opportunity for all freight forwarders as all major companies and professionals from around the globe participate in this event. Delegates create tens of millions of dollars in combined new business and save weeks of travel time and thousands of dollars in travel expenses by pre-booking up to 40 pre-arranged meetings with fellow agents from around the world. Members of WCA networks make up the world’s most powerful grouping of independent freight forwarders with 5565 offices in more than 762 cities and ports worldwide and together create more logistics power than all other networks combined. “WCA always provides an excellent platform to share and exchange ideas and new concepts. CSS India has gained a lot in terms of business and developing new contacts by being a frequent participant of this conference” mentioned Jairam K R, Director CSS India, after participating this year’s conference.
SOLUTION FOR YOUR EXCESS BAGGAGE FROM CSS HOMEWARD BOUND CSS Homeward Bound is one of the largest and leading professional Removals and Relocations Company in the UAE with a worldwide network. We, at CSS Homeward Bound, are committed to cater to our customers’ needs by rendering exceptional services. Our company is managed by a team of professionals with a proven track record and extensive experience in the business of removal and packing. We take the stress out of the moving process by providing a seamless and worry-free experience. Now we are proud to announce CSS Homeward Bound Excess Baggage service in Dubai and all over the world. The launch of Homeward Bound Excess Baggage Facility offers our customers to Export and Import shipments through us to anywhere across the world. Excess Baggage provides a fast reliable solution for sending packages Door to Door to any locations in the world. Using our fleet of trucks and team of professional staff, we are able to pick up from any location in the UAE and deliver to any location in the world within 3-7 days. CSS HWB helps you accomplish more, in fewer steps. This is a one stop solution for all the baggage requirements especially suited for small to medium sized baggage requirements. Now, our customers may prepare their personal belongings, reduce their headaches, and accurately track their shipments’ transit. Just call us on 800 277 and we will do the rest. Apart from the primary services, we also provide the below services for free:
Free packing
Free pick up with in Dubai
Fast, Reliable Worldwide Baggage services
Supply of cartons, bubble wrap, paper, and tape
In order to avail our lucrative services, kindly send an email to HWB team on info@csshomeward.com or call us on 800 277 and you and your customer/ reference shall be serviced with the best for all your requirements.
THE GROWTH OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AT CSS The growth of technology at CSS can be attributed to the growing demands from the different departments within the last Two decades. In CSS, IT (Information Technology) has brought about significant improvements in Business operations. CSS has got a highly refined IT infrastructure comprising of latest network devices & security components of Firewall, network monitoring tool. These features have made the atmosphere safe and reliable with a centralized access and operation for the entire group company. IT has also brought about Cost effectiveness by helping to computerize business processes thus streamlining business to make them extremely cost effective money making machines. This in turn increased productivity which ultimately enhanced profits. This means better pay and less strain during work. Streamlined work flow systems, shared storage and collaborative work spaces can increase efficiency in a business and allow employees to process a greater level of work in a shorter period of time which is happening at CSS. Information technology systems can be used to automate routine tasks, to make data analysis easier and to store data in a manner that can easily be retrieved for future use. Great strides were seen at the software upgradation and implementing state-of the art features for improved efficiency. FINS, the in-house developed ERP solution of CSS has become an integral part of the company’s day to day affairs. SOME OF THE UNIQUE FEATURES ARE: Access from anywhere to the software The advancement in accessibility helps improve real-time decisions. Users can input data & generate reports on real-time operations data using a secure web browser. Various MIS reports Reports on revenue, volume, TEU on period wise etc. can be generated. Details of any type of shipment be it Sea Export/Import, Air Export/ Import, Land Movements etc. Also different reports like Performance Analysis, Customer Analysis, and Agent Analysis can also be viewed. Finance & HR reports can also be availed. CSS Portal Portal allows CSS to take advantage of immediate, online access to customers, agents, shippers and service providers. This access can lead to greater levels of collaboration with customers. In an efficient supply chain, the flow of cargo, information, and services depends on increased teamwork. Portals provide this efficiency. With the latest technology almost all information required for the customer is accessible from portal. Expert team updates the portal daily, providing exceptional industry insight and analysis. CSS Portal employs the latest technology to enable you to identify the specific data you need, quickly and easily. Some of the features of the portal include
Access for customers in portal and can view the shipments
Leave planner, Network Directory, Meeting planner etc. in portal
Cargo/Shipment tracking via portal & Mobile app
Mobile application for sales people to access the rates & track shipments
Automated mails to customers on updates of cargo movement
Fax from software provision
CRM module for effective customer interaction
Graphical, Charts, Matrix report for comparisons
Budget reports
Rates Module: LCL, FCL, Air including Origin & Destination charges
History of all transactions in software
Data warehousing (access to data of any years back)
State of the art technology used to develop the software
R & D of new web technology to migrate software to work from any platform, any browser and from any mobile
CSS HOMEWARD BOUND CRICKET TOURNAMENT CONCLUDES WITH A THRILLING FINALE Arab unity emerged as the champions of the CSS Homeward Bound inter school cricket tournament defeating Gems modern academy for 36 runs at the fair grounds of the Dubai men’s college. The tournament staged after 6 years due to shortage of ground availability, was a great success with 10 top schools from the UAE competing the event and unearthed many a talents from the region for cricket. CSS Homeward bound were the Main sponsors for the event which lasted for almost 3 months due to exams and vacations for the participating schools in between. Iritza Ali, the hero of the final cracked a half century and took three wickets to bag the prestigious man of the final award. Batting first Arab unity lost opener Huzaifa Nadeem for six, but Irtiza and Ramal Perera steadied the innings with a crucial 46 runs stand. CSS Homeward Bound, the leaders in Moving & Relocations, sponsored the Inter-School cricket tournament and showed its interest in promoting talents from the budding levels of cricket. As a Champion of philanthropy CSS Group, the parent organization is involved in many novel initiatives promoting charity activities across the UAE. The final match and the presentation ceremony was attended by Unnikrishnan G, Head of Marketing & Corporate communications CSS Group and Syed Ahmed Zeeshan, General Manager, CSS Homeward Bound along with the pantheon of players from the cricketing fraternity in Dubai.
THE DECISION OF THE INDIAN SUPREME COURT IN “FORBES FORBES CAMPBELL & CO. LTD. VS. BOARD OF TRUSTEES, PORT OF BOMBAY” IS WORTH PONDERING UPON. A review of the order and its implications on the vessel owners and steamer agents Facts of the Case In the case at hand the consignee of the goods had not taken steps to clear the consignment. Hence the Port Authorities issued notices to the consignee and then resorted to their remedy to publicly auction off the goods. However despite provisions in the Port Trust Authorities Act, 1963, wherein the auction may take place after a lapse of 60 days of landing the Port Authorities finally auctioned the consignment only after the expiry of four years; On auction of the goods the amount received was less than the amount towards the total charges payable to the port authority, which consequently led to the institution of the suit, whereby the Port Authorities sought to recover the balance cost from the Steamer Agents as the consignees could not be traced. At first instance, the suit was in fact dismissed however; on appeal the Hon’ble High Court reversed the decree holding the steamer agent liable. Interpretation of the law The steamer agent’s argument was that the provisions of the Major Post Trust Act of 1963, impose no statutory liability on them to pay the said charges to the Port Trust Authorities. They further argued that they did not fall within the definition of “Owners” under Section 2 (o) of the Act. As the said definition has no mention of the owner of the vessel or the steamer agent, thus the liability imposed by the Port Authorities was illegal and unjust. The Port Trust Authority however took the contention that there existed a relationship that of a bailor and bailee between themselves and the agent from when the goods are delivered to the Authority till the point when the said goods are duly endorsed to the consignee by way of transfer of the bill of lading. The Port Authorities further argued that existence of this relationship has been established under Section 42 of the Act along with the basic principles of bailment as laid down under The Indian Contract Act. The Supreme court after considering the arguments and the decision of the High Court took a more understanding view towards, the contention of the Port Authority. They relied on the decision in the case of the Trustees of the Port of Madras v. K.P.V. Sheik Mohamed Rowther & Co ,which held that once the bill of lading is endorsed or the delivery order is issued to the consignee or endorsee, it is then that the consignee would be liable to pay the demurrage charges and other dues of the Port Trust authority. In all other situations the contract of bailment is one between the Steamer Agent (bailor) and the Port Trust Authority (bailee). This would then impose liability on the Steamer Agent for such charges, till such time that the bill of lading is indorsed or delivery order is issued by the Steamer Agent Implications of the Decision The Decision of the SC to quash the appeal preferred by the Steamer agents will undoubtedly have several significant implications on the future of consignment shipping and storage transactions, in similar circumstances. As per the interpretation should a vessel owner or their steamer agent fail to endorse the consignment to the consignee or a consignee fail to clear their consignments across the various ports of India, the Steamer agent /vessel owner will be liable for cost incurred due to non clearance of the same. Thus the decision now in fact poses as a dagger hanging over the heads of the owners of vessels and their steamer agents in the form of unlimited liability should a consignee not comply with his duty toward the cargo. This unlimited and unbridled liability placed upon the vessel owners and steamer agents unfairly stretches beyond the extent of their services. Owing to the decision held by the SC, the owners/steamer agents must ensure that all the consignments unloaded onto a Port premises must be cleared by the consignee in time or else they could face arrest of their vessels /sister vessels be the Port Authorities to recover their outstanding . Thereby Ship owners who are often faced with a number of expenses in relation to maintenance and running of their vessels will have to factor in this additional responsibility of clearance of consignments as well. For now thought the decision by the SC has finally put the question of liability of the steamer agent for demurrage and other charges to port authorities, to rest; only time can tell of the impact of this decision on the maritime industry.
Similar to choosing other topics for Kaleidoscope, we usually start the ideas flowing by having a chat between ourselves. This month, one of the team said, “Well I hope you are going to mention that this will be the 20th anniversary edition of our corporate magazine; Lighthouse?” How quickly the years seem to have passed. But arriving at this milestone for CSS started us thinking about anniversaries and why they are so important in our lives. Just ponder for a while on the many different types of anniversaries which exist. Let’s, for example, start with some family and personal ones: – marriage, birthdays, deaths, commencing work, beginning university and perhaps baby’s first steps. Then we can move onto those which are cultural, religious, historical and national:- Diwali, this year falling on Wednesday 11th November; Neil Armstrong, first man on the moon, 20th July 1969; Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, 2nd October. Whilst all these occasions are dissimilar they all share one common attribute. They help us commemorate events and, in doing so, add more meaning to our lives. It has been the same since humanity first started walking this earth. Not only have we always had a need to recognise time and its passing but also we have equally been a dedicated species of party animals. The Ice Age and cave dwelling seem totally alien when compared with our ability today to just stroll down to the local store to get food. It was a very hard existence so any excuse for a celebration was welcome, especially when food arrived. Bringing home a woolly mammoth called for a “Mammoth” Party. Naturally these were bigger than other parties as a tribe could feed on a woolly mammoth for a long-time. No wonder party organisers today are keen to use mammoth as a descriptive adjective for their event. This focus on the ability to eat and the arrival of more family mouths to feed developed into recognising the bigger events like the beginning and end of nicer weather akin to Easter/Spring and Harvest/Thanksgiving. As a tribe grew and waged war with others, or joined with them, the tradition of celebrating national events became into being. Equally it became important to recognise anniversaries relating to religious and cultural beliefs. Soon, the party animals that we are, needed more reasons to mark occasions and celebrate. Consequently births, engagements, marriages and deaths started to become a focus for anniversaries. Probably the biggest change arose when individual marriage ceremonies started. Whilst the best available evidence indicates that the first organised marriage ceremony was about 4,350 years ago, not that too far distant really, they didn’t have much then to do with love or religion. It was a case of organising the tribe into a social structure. However since this date the trend was started. Weddings had become one of the social calendar’s most important occasions to show off a family’s importance within society. Forget a wedding anniversary and you were, and still are, in BIG trouble. Anniversaries, of any type, also provide an opportunity to reflect on what has past and what we hope for the future. They invariably stir memories for us, good or bad, touching our emotions. This is why TV schedulers adjust their programme schedules to coincide with anniversaries because generally it ups their ratings. Anniversaries take on a different slant within the work environment as it usually means an employment contract is up for assessment or renewal. Naturally if you want to ask your boss a favour, choose a date on which they are celebrating an upbeat anniversary and not a sad one. So where does this leave us with Lighthouse magazine? Well no doubt the staff will be reflecting on how your CSS corporate publication has grown and developed in style, since its inception. They will also be taking into account your views, which have been expressed to them over the years. Successful magazines are never static in their format because, in order to appeal to their readership, they have to reflect your needs and aspirations. These are forever changing and it’s this impetus which drives us all forward. If Lighthouse is allowed a short blow of their trumpet, the perceived response is that it has been a success. So in the spirit of anniversaries – using the traditional gifts – they may be allowed to drink a toast held in wooden cups whilst using a silver knife to cut some sandwiches. Enjoy!!
As part of our continuous commitment to the freight forwarding fraternity, CSS initiated a thank you scheme over 6 years ago, whereby one lucky name out of the scores of business cards that are dropped into the raffle bowls placed at the Delivery Order Counter will be rewarded with a gift.
The winner picked selected and rewarded for the months of November- December 2014 was Mansoor from Logical Freight Services who walked away with gift vouchers worth AED 200 from Carrefour, presented by Suku Sudhakaran, GM, Industrial Packing/ Lashing & Crating, CSS Homeward Bound
LUO ZONGLI Managing Director Portever Shipping Ltd., Ningbo
Walking alongside CSS Group We, Portever Shipping Limited are very grateful to CSS’ professional services. Portever has been cooperating with CSS over 15 years and had never met with disappointment in solving complicated issues. All these years, we had a very enjoyable working relationship with CSS service and have a very pleasant cooperation which was mutually beneficial. With the help of CSS Group, we’ve been getting better feedbacks; comments from the end customers which definitely helped us expand our business in the Middle East Area. Achievements with CSS Group We think we made big success in Middle East with the help from CSS group. CSS provides not only professional service, but also competitive price, best attention and efficient communications which are key factors in today’s business world. I think these can be seen as the common traits between us. Also we both dislike pessimism. On the 20th anniversary We sincerely wish to be CSS’ strategic partner in China and hope to expand the business in coming years with mutual efforts. We, at Portever wish CSS a great time during the 20th anniversary and again wish to celebrate the 50th anniversary too, together. STEPHANE RAMBAUD President Global Forwarding C.H. Robinson Worldwide
Walking alongside CSS Group CHR aligning with CSS has provided us with an excellent operational and commercial platform in a strategically important market (i.e. throughout the entire Mena region). CHR Global Forwarding offices can now better service its worldwide customer base by combining resources jointly and develop service offerings on new business and revenue opportunities. CHR and CSS work closely together and collectively offer first class origin and destination global forwarding services and are now well positioned to enhance both entities customer base as well as compete in a much bigger arena in terms of the so called big service provider/players, already well-established and in the market place. Whilst we as a group have been extremely busy with many company initiatives on a global scale, with regards to our Global Forwarding activities, we have relied on CSS to develop our footprint in the Middle East which we see as a very important market. Our worldwide global forwarding offices have integrated well with the CSS, in the Mena region, as collectively CHR and CSS have been able to leverage each company’s core competencies and have combined global expertise with regional knowledge. Achievements with CSS Group Since our coming together CHR are delighted to have formed this alliance with CSS as they undoubtedly add value, knowledge and excellent market coverage for our global forwarding network and colleagues. Obviously we rely on CSS for their regional knowledge and contacts combined with their network coverage in what we can consider as an extremely important region and market for us worldwide. Like CSS, CHR are constantly looking at new markets and business opportunities in order to add value to our global offices as well as better service our customers. We have seen some encouraging results since coming together which we all hope we can continue to build on, as we have a solid foundation in place that both CSS and CHR intend to leverage moving forward. On the 20th anniversary We look forward to developing more business opportunities and revenue streams in an exciting dynamic market, as well as wish the entire CSS management for their commitment and support to the CHR corporate values and developing the CHR brand and Global Forwarding business throughout the MENA region. We congratulate CSS for achieving this milestone, 20 years in the Middle East market, and hope the next 20 years are as successful and rewarding as the last Walking alongside CSS Group JEAN-PAUL VAN MUNSTER CEO FPS Rotterdam and Prague
The relationship between CSS and FPS Rotterdam started in 2003 initiated by Mr. Alvin Tan, director of FPS Singapore when Mr. Kaladharan and I happen to visit Singapore at the same time. It was Mr. Alvin Tan who knew me since 1995 and figured that CSS and FPS Rotterdam had a lot to offer to each other, and he was absolutely right! Achievements with CSS Group Commencing in 2003, the combined efforts of CSS and FPS Rotterdam has made both companies to become one of the market leaders in consolidation services from and to the Middle East and India. From the start not only a fruitful business relationship started, but also a close friendship flourished. During the past years, not only Kala and I became personal friends, it had grown to a higher level into a family atmosphere. We both never missed the opportunity to be in each other’s family functions and over the period of time, we shared the joy of being like a single family and we continue the relationship. On the 20th anniversary The history of 12 years relationship with the CSS organization has grown to become not only business partners, but something more valuable in this world; “United Friends” and we wish all success to Kala and his team in this land mark achievement. BENNY LING Director FPS Hong Kong
Walking alongside CSS Group Starting from Dubai, our company had been working with CSS Group for more than 15 years. We are proud to claim ourselves as a witness to the appreciable development of CSS Group, with achievements in setting up of offices, warehouses and the overall business expansion. In our daily interactions, we find the people at CSS Group, highly professional, aggressive, responsible and reliable. We fully understand the fact that a strong leadership is a vital thing to a company to have a successful and motivated work and that is where, Kala and his senior management team demonstrate the prowess to be even more successful. Achievements with CSS Group As one of the agents of CSS with such a long working relationship, we truly could not find any problem from CSS Group companies, but we enjoy very much to work with this professional team. The common traits are the trust worthiness amongst ourselves and our associates also the confidence to take up any challenge coming on the way of our job. On the 20th anniversary While celebrating the 20th anniversary of CSS Group, we would like to deliver our warmest regards and greetings to Kala and his team and truly admire the remarkable achievements that they have made, also we wish to join hands with CSS on further business developments with expecting to celebrate the 25th and 50th anniversary and share the happiness. ESAM AL BADER Chairman Al Bader Group Kuwait
Walking alongside CSS Group It’s been a decade of being associated with CSS, and the journey has been one of learning, co-operating and of immense pleasure. Like in any relationship, there is a need for understanding and adjustments, and in CSS we have found partners who are not only flexible. They are pro-active, and always feel the pulse of the international shipping field. They are quick to implement any new trends that are beneficial for the growth of the organization and always abreast with new developments. In fact, with the passing years, the foresight shown by CSS is commendable, and they are now considered pioneers in the LCL/Groupage industry. Knowing Mr Kala I am very sure that he is not someone who sits on his laurels, but will keep innovating to keep achieving higher goals for not only CSS but also their partners. Achievements with CSS Group Looking back at the years, we feel we have grown together with CSS, and the relationship has been immensely beneficial to both our organizations. When you consider that both our organizations believe that our three main pillars for growth are “Our Staff”, “Our Customers” and “Our Partners”, it has been a smooth ride, since we think on the same levels, expect the same kind of professionalism from ourselves, and everyone associated with us. On 20th anniversary We would like to take this opportunity to wish CSS continuous growth and prosperity in years to come. Soar high and it is our honor to be your partner here in Kuwait. You can count on us to be that friend that everyone needs who continuously watches your back, and gives you that freedom to keep moving forward and achieving the highest echelons in business. ALLEN TSAI President Oriental Logistics Group Taiwan
Walking alongside CSS Group OLC and CSS have the cooperation for 14 years, the cooperation starts from ocean business in the beginning and extend to air and logistics business with smooth communication and discussion. We truly respect the professional service quality from CSS. Through the long-term cooperation, the relation between OLC and CSS Groups not only agency cooperation but also forms very close friendship between us. Achievements with CSS Group Through the ocean business between Taiwan and Dubai from the cooperation between OLC and CSS Groups, OLC have become top two forwarders in Taiwan market. Meanwhile, the achievement has drawn the attention from “BUREAU OF FOREIGN TRADE MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC AFFAIRS” and “TAIWAN EXTERNAL TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL” these two Taiwan government departments, and they already suggest their members and customers to use the service by OLC and CSS which highly increase publicity for both sides. On the 20th anniversary We would like to take this chance to thank CSS for all the supports and cooperation as always and congratulations on the occasion of CSS’s 20th anniversary. Wish CSS Group continuously, steady grow and develop like the past 20 years, and have prosperous and fruitful future for the upcoming years. MATHIAS BROSOWSKY Managing Director NGL- Navigator Global Logistics GmbH Germany
Walking alongside CSS Group It was the summer of ’96 when Mr. Kala and my path crossed the first time. Can you imagine, our first contact actually started via office phone (land line) and not like today, via cell phone. That time we had ongoing discussions on how to break into one special account. Prior to having met the first time personally, we had already talked hours over the phone and had slowly started to work together. It was somehow strange, but even via phone I felt we had been able to build up some kind of personal relationship. A few months passed and it was time to meet personally. I may be lying if I say I was not curious that time on who was actually behind that voice I had been talking to for months. My gut feeling was right, our first handshake was not only the beginning of a valuable business partnership, it was the beginning of a great friendship. Achievements with CSS group CSS Group is and has been a valuable partner for us. Due to the offered product portfolio and growth of CSS around the Middle East, we are able to offer our customers the full range of forwarding expertise. Our common understanding on how to fulfill the needs of our customers on both sides has enabled us to be a competitive player in the shark pond. On the 20th anniversary On behalf of NGL Navigator Global Logistics, we congratulate CSS for completing 20 glorious years of success. When you began your business in 1995, there was already a healthy competition in the market, but you have been able to achieve tremendous growth by providing the best product and service to your customers and partners. A great company with great people and we all know… great people make great companies. We wish you all the success for many more years to come. And we hope to continue doing more business with you in future ALFRED STEINEN Managing Director, F.S Mackenzie Group, UK
Walking alongside CSS Group We have been working with the CSS Group in Dubai and neighboring Countries now for many years. Starting off with Sea freight Consolidations, we extended the co-operation to Airfreight and combined Sea-and Air for Project Cargo. We regard CSS as one of our most active Partners worldwide, reliable, trustworthy and innovative, always open for new ideas and focused on customer’s needs. We extended our partnership some years to our sister companies in Eastern Europe, Russia and glad to notice that a lot of business, especially in the field of Airfreight has been developed. Achievements with CSS Group The foundation of our partnership was the weekly LCL-Consolidation Service between the UK – Dubai and vice-versa, which is still the cornerstone of our partnership. However, we have also many achievements in the field of Airfreight and handling of Turn-Key Projects. The partnership between F.S. Mackenzie and the CSS Group is and will remain strong and ready for the challenges laying ahead. On the 20th anniversary We are proud to be a Partner of the CSS Group for many years and all of us at F.S.Mackenzie congratulate CSS for 20 successful years in Freight forwarding and Logistics business. As time fly’s we wish further success for the next 20 years and looking forwarding to Meeting you all again in 2035!!! OLIVER HAHN Regional Manager- IFS Doha
Walking alongside CSS Group Over the course of our longstanding cooperation we have not only maintained our original friendships but these have grown throughout the CSS Group and their associates worldwide. It has been a great experience to work with CSS and their global partners offering a transparent working relationship and has surely enhanced our own business. We have achieved numerous things together during our cooperation which include the expansion of our core services to cover specific markets or trade sectors that were previously outside our scope of work or general market coverage. Achievements with CSS Group I believe that CSS and IFS have both expanded their business based on the requirement of satisfying the needs of our business associates and clients. With the cooperation between the Groups it has allowed us to mutually benefit from common business opportunities and work on numerous larger projects together. I feel that CSS and IFS are most similar in the way that both clients and associates are treated on a personal level. As our industry has developed over the last twenty years it is clear that systems and technology have changed our way of doing business but at the core of all of these improvements we all remember that we are fundamentally a people business. On the 20th anniversary All at IFS congratulate The CSS Group on reaching this momentous milestone. As the last twenty years have shown there is no limit as to what can be achieved with help of both partners and clients as the CSS group has continued to grow. We wish CSS all success on their 20th Anniversary and going forward in the future. On a personal note I offer my own congratulations to Kala and his team on their past achievements and wish them well with their future endeavors. STEVE QUINN Sales Director Locker Freight Ltd., UK
Walking alongside CSS Group We have worked With CSS Since day 1, the Friendship and Business Relationship is way beyond that of any of our Other Worldwide Partners, We feel that The Growth of CSS within the GCC Countries has also Helped Locker Freight to Grow in the UK. Mutually we enjoy the healthy relationship over the years and look forward for an even brighter association in the future. Achievements with CSS Group On looking back over the 20 Year Period I think the most Common Traits we share is Trust, alongside Hard Work, Flexibility and Never Say ‘’ No’’ Attitude which are the basic requirements in business. We have both been able to achieve the trust and confidence of our associates over the years. Working closely, we have made sure that the area where we operate recognizes us both with sincerity and gratitude. When two companies like ours share such a support from the business fraternity, then we don’t have to wait and look back. On the 20th anniversary We at Locker Freight Ltd, Wish Kala and All the CSS Family The Very Best Wishes on this Great Occasion, and we look forward to the next 20 years Business Relationship with CSS. OLIVIER BOCCARA CEO SAGA France
Walking alongside CSS Group At Saga, we met Kala and CSS in Paris in 2008, and after discussions we started developing sea and airfreight business with CDG and Le Havre. But our significant development was the project cargo movement with our Marseille and Tokyo Offices. We consider that the image of CSS in the Middle East is an important asset for us in the Industrial, Oil and gas industry. Together we were able to fulfill the immediate requirements of our clients without compromising on the core values we both uphold. Achievements with CSS Group CSS is definitely a very professional and pro-active team and that’s why we are confident cooperating with them. Our common trait is probably the strong culture of both companies which is a major asset in our industry. We also believe in the values of trustworthiness and optimism. These could be the reason why we still have a place in our clients thoughts and hearts. On the 20th Anniversary I wish the CSS family to pursue its dynamic development and to prosper while retaining its core value in the years to come also. GREG HOWARD Chief Executive Officer Caro Trans International, Inc., USA
Our partnership with CSS has provided an excellent operational and commercial platform in a strategically important market. Carotrans can now better service our customers through the combined resources which have also enabled us to jointly develop new service offerings and revenue opportunities. The close cooperation with CSS has helped develop best in class LCL and FCL services between the USA and the MENA region based on both companies core competencies, global expertise and regional knowledge. Achievements with CSS Group It is quite amazing to consider the incredible similarity of our two companies’ culture and philosophy. Since the start of our cooperation with CSS, our alliance has grown from strength to strength and undoubtedly added value, knowledge and exceptional market coverage for our global network and customers. We rely on CSS for their regional knowledge and valuable contacts in combination with their comprehensive network coverage. We have built a solid foundation upon which we will continue to grow and strengthen together. On the 20th anniversary We congratulate CSS for achieving this milestone, 20 years in the Middle East market, and hope the next 20 years are as successful and rewarding as the last
It seems like only yesterday that we celebrated our 15th anniversary. Time really does appear to pass quickly, especially when one is focused enthusiastically on objectives and achievements. It’s somewhat unbelievable that five years have passed and we have now reached our 20th anniversary. The excitement, challenges, opportunities, successes, and admittedly some minor misses, have spurred us all along at a pace which has made the passage of time seem a distant concern.
Consolidated Shipping Group will be celebrating their 20th anniversary of operations in the field of Shipping and logistics during the month of March 2015. The entire team at CSS is enthusiastic at this land mark occasion, as they see this as a great success in their company’s career. The senior management announced the function last month and preparations are underway to make the event memorable. 20th anniversary celebrations are being held both in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The new Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights is the venue in Dubai where the conferences and meetings are going to happen. In Abu Dhabi, The Club will host a carnival theme party on the 14th March for the Global Partners and associates of CSS Group.
In connection with the 20th anniversary celebrations, CSS will be organizing a Golf Event in which golfers from the Shipping and Logistics fraternity from around the world will participate. Some of professional golfers from Dubai are also expected to participate in this event. The event is organized at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht club on the 12th March 2015.
Console Shipping Services India has started their operations from Ahmedabad, one of the fastest growing cities in India. Being strategically positioned in Ahmedabad, CSS India will be easily able to access and control the operations of cargo movements at Pipavav, Mundra and Hazira Port. Also they will have access to LCD Dashrath, Baroda and LCD Ankleshwar. Ahmedabad is centrally located in Gujarat where major development programmes are progressing. The cargo movements to all ports are possible via road and rail from here. Container Corporation of India handles the rail movement of cargo while truck movements are quite common in the region.
CSS India was a part of the 7th WCA Worldwide Conference which was held from 2-5 February at the Asia World Expo adjacent to Hong Kong Airport which comprised of all 4 of WCA’s general networks within one major event. The conference was treated as an integral part of the WCA Conference Week and is a must for all members of the WCA.
CSS Homeward Bound is one of the largest and leading professional Removals and Relocations Company in the UAE with a worldwide network. We, at CSS Homeward Bound, are committed to cater to our customers’ needs by rendering exceptional services.
The growth of technology at CSS can be attributed to the growing demands from the different departments within the last Two decades. In CSS, IT (Information Technology) has brought about significant improvements in Business operations. CSS has got a highly refined IT infrastructure comprising of latest network devices & security components of Firewall, network monitoring tool. These features have made the atmosphere safe and reliable with a centralized access and operation for the entire group company. IT has also brought about Cost effectiveness by helping to computerize business processes thus streamlining business to make them extremely cost effective money making machines. This in turn increased productivity which ultimately enhanced profits. This means better pay and less strain during work. Streamlined work flow systems, shared storage and collaborative work spaces can increase efficiency in a business and allow employees to process a greater level of work in a shorter period of time which is happening at CSS. Information technology systems can be used to automate routine tasks, to make data analysis easier and to store data in a manner that can easily be retrieved for future use.
Arab unity emerged as the champions of the CSS Homeward Bound inter school cricket tournament defeating Gems modern academy for 36 runs at the fair grounds of the Dubai men’s college. The tournament staged after 6 years due to shortage of ground availability, was a great success with 10 top schools from the UAE competing the event and unearthed many a talents from the region for cricket. CSS Homeward bound were the Main sponsors for the event which lasted for almost 3 months due to exams and vacations for the participating schools in between.
Facts of the Case
Similar to choosing other topics for Kaleidoscope, we usually start the ideas flowing by having a chat between ourselves. This month, one of the team said, “Well I hope you are going to mention that this will be the 20th anniversary edition of our corporate magazine; Lighthouse?” How quickly the years seem to have passed. But arriving at this milestone for CSS started us thinking about anniversaries and why they are so important in our lives.
As part of our continuous commitment to the freight forwarding fraternity, CSS initiated a thank you scheme over 6 years ago, whereby one lucky name out of the scores of business cards that are dropped into the raffle bowls placed at the Delivery Order Counter will be rewarded with a gift.
