Chairman’s Message
30 YEARS OF GRIT, GROWTH AND GLOBAL IMPACT
As I reflect on the last 30 years of the CSS Group, I cannot help but reflect and marvel at the journey. Our story, while it is grounded in the logistics industry, isn’t just about freight, shipments, or technology. It’s about perseverance, standing tall in the face of challenges and a shared vision that keeps us moving forward.
The Humble Beginnings
When I think back to where we started, I see a picture of humble beginnings, a team united by a common goal and values that have never wavered. It all began in 1995, when after a decade of experience in the industry, I set out to create something of value, something that would leave a mark. Armed with ambition and a modest 1,200-square-foot office in Dubai, my team of four and I embarked on what seemed like an impossible journey. The market was full of potential, but also uncertainty. We weren’t the biggest, we didn’t have the flashiest resources—but we had something far more powerful: determination. Dubai’s strategic location, paired with the country’s forward-thinking business climate, provided the perfect platform for growth. But in those early days, it was the people—the ones who believed in us, who worked alongside us and who trusted us—that propelled us forward. It was their commitment, their passion and their hard work that helped us weather the storms ahead.
Navigating Challenges
Over the years, we’ve faced our fair share of challenges. From economic downturns to technological shifts and even global crises like the 2008 financial crash and the COVID-19 pandemic, each obstacle tested our resolve. But we never wavered. We learned to adapt, recalibrate and press on. The foundation we had built on values—discipline, resilience and an unwavering vision—held firm and we emerged stronger each time.
Our Greatest Strength
Of all the things I’m proud of, what stands out most is our people. Many of our employees have been with us for 20+ years. In an industry where turnover is high, this level of loyalty is rare but it didn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of trust, shared goals and a leadership team that has always placed people at the center of everything we do.
Driving Progress through Innovation
From our early days of building our own Oracle-based software to the digital transformation we embrace today; we’ve always strived to stay ahead of the curve. As the logistics sector embraces advancements like robotics, AI and machine learning, CSS Group will be at the forefront of adopting these technologies. Our latest focus is a fully paperless, AI-integrated operation – one that is agile, efficient and ready for the future.
Future Forward Vision
Now, as we celebrate 30 years of CSS Group, I find myself filled with gratitude. Gratitude for our clients, our partners and our global network who have trusted us along the way. Gratitude for our incredible team whose commitment has been the cornerstone of our success.
But this isn’t just a celebration of the past. It’s a promise for the future. A future where we will continue to blend the wisdom of experience with the energy of a new generation. With the Almighty’s guidance, I look forward to what lies ahead—hopeful, purposeful and driven by renewed determination.
As Richard Branson once said, “Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming.” His words remind me that while we honor our past, the future is full of new opportunities. Together, we will continue to embrace change, face new challenges and seize every opportunity that comes our way.
Three decades ago, T.S. Kaladharan embarked on a mission to transform the logistics landscape. As the founder of CSS Group, he built not just a company, but a thriving global enterprise driven by innovation, resilience and a commitment to service excellence.
BUILDING AN EMPIRE
Beyond business strategies and technological innovations, T.S. Kaladharan’s true legacy is the culture he has cultivated within CSS. His leadership has fostered deep employee loyalty, with 40 team members completing over 20 years at the company and 17 surpassing 25 years.
THE NEXT CHAPTER
This economic diversification is reflected in Bahrain’s key economic indicators.
The real GDP growth forecast for 2024 stands at 2.6%, with projections for a stronger 3.3% growth in 2026. Notably, this growth is primarily driven by non-oil activities, which are forecast to rise by 3.9% in 2026, while oil-related activities are expected to contract slightly. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) remains moderate at 2.0% forecast for 2026, signaling manageable inflation levels. Meanwhile, the current account balance is expected to improve to 5.3% of GDP, supporting overall economic stability. Bahrain’s moderate yet consistent economic growth highlights the importance of continued reform, fiscal discipline and economic diversification. While financial services and manufacturing remains key drivers, sectors like logistics, healthcare, education and ICT are playing increasingly important roles.
BUILDING STRONGER TEAMS – THE BACKBONE OF ORGANIZATIONAL GROWTH
In today’s fast-paced business environment, reverse logistics i.e. the process of managing the flow of goods from the consumer back to the business; is essential for customer satisfaction, cost efficiency and sustainability. With the rise of online shopping return rates can soar to 30%, making it crucial for businesses to manage returns effectively to avoid high costs and maintain strong customer relationships.
REDUCING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
BUILDING CUSTOMER LOYALTY
LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY & PARTNERSHIPS
The celebrations began on April 26th with an elegant Welcome Soirée held on the Raia Rooftop offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Guests arrived throughout the day, greeted warmly by the CSS team. Each delegate received a gift bag, event goodies and a detailed itinerary booklet reflecting the company’s signature attention to detail.
The heart of the evening was dedicated to honoring excellence and acknowledging contributions across the CSS community. The highlight of the night was the presentation of a prestigious token of appreciation by the CSS Group to DP World and Dubai Customs—an expression of gratitude that celebrated the strong, long-standing partnerships shared with both organizations. Speeches of the leaders from the logistics industry offered meaningful reflections and words of encouragement for the future.
Long Service Awards were presented to CSS staff marking 15, 20 and 25 years of service, a testament to the company’s culture of loyalty and growth. Adding an element of excitement to the evening, there was a spirited raffle draw, with children pulling out the winning numbers and sponsors distributing gifts, drawing in families into the celebration.
Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), DP World’s premier free zone and logistics hub, has announced a significant $24.5 million (AED 90 million) investment to expand its cutting-edge logistics park. This marks the launch of Phase 2 of the development, which will add 360,000 square feet of Grade-A facilities, enhancing the total area to over 922,000 square feet.
Phase 2 of the logistics park features world-class infrastructure, including customizable units, temperature-controlled warehouses, modern office spaces, loading docks and enhanced power capacity. These facilities are designed to support businesses across a broad range of industries, enabling streamlined operations for everything from technology and automotive parts to fashion goods and packaged foods.
Commenting on the announcement, Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer – Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, said: “This expansion reflects our commitment to helping businesses compete on a global scale while driving foreign investment into Dubai. The rapid uptake of Phase 1 showed how strong the demand is for quality logistics infrastructure and Phase 2 raises the bar by offering even more flexible, high-performance solutions to support business growth.”
Sustainability has been embedded in the design and construction of Phase 2. The use of precast concrete and off-site construction methods reduces the park’s environmental footprint, while skylights throughout the buildings optimize natural daylight to lower energy consumption. These efforts reflect Jafza’s broader commitment to building environmentally responsible infrastructure in line with the UAE’s sustainability goals.
As the Middle East and Africa’s freight and logistics market is projected to reach $235.8 billion by 2031, Jafza’s expanded logistics park is ideally positioned to help businesses capitalize on the region’s growth. Its integrated logistics ecosystem and modern infrastructure make it a go-to hub for companies seeking scalable, future-ready supply chain solutions.
Football fever gripped Amana Sports Bay, Abu Hail, as 24 teams clashed for glory in the All-India Sevens – Football Dhamaka (Season 2), hosted by Dubai KMCC Payyannur Municipal Committee on 23rd February 2025.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES
From the very first match, the tournament delivered non-stop action. Spectators witnessed spectacular goals, last-minute winners and heroic saves that kept everyone on edge. Each match was fiercely contested, with players giving their all for their teams.
The final match was an absolute thriller with CSS Group FC and Master Gate Taliparamba going in head-to-head in a nail-biting encounter. Every attack was met with fierce defence and the goalkeepers pulled off incredible saves. In the end, CSS Group FC emerged victorious, sparking celebrations on the field and in the stands.
Vishnu K P
Puniderjith Singh
Padam Magar
Muhammed Hashim