Chairman’s Message

T S KALADHARAN

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.