DP World Reports 3.7% Gross Like-For-Like Volume Growth in 9m 2018

DP World Limited handled 53.6 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) across its global portfolio of container terminals in the first nine months of 2018, with gross container volumes growing by 2.6 % year-on-year on a reported basis and 3.7% on a like-for-like basis1.

Gross like-for-like volumes declined by 0.5% in 3Q2018 due to the tougher year-on-year comparables (3Q2017 volumes grew 13.5% year-on-year), and softer volumes in the UAE.

The UAE handled 11.3 million TEU in 9M2018, down -2.1% year-on-year, with 3Q2018 volumes down -6.7% year-on-year due to the challenging macroenvironment and loss of lower-margin cargo. Growth in Europe remained robust with strong growth in London Gateway (UK) and Rotterdam (Netherlands).

At a consolidated2 level, our terminals handled 27.7 million TEU during the first nine months of 2018, a 1.6% improvement in performance on a reported basis and up 2.2% year-on-year on a like-for-like3 basis.

Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem commented:

“As highlighted in our first half throughput announcement, we have seen our volume growth decelerate due to the strong prior year performance and general caution in the market given the current uncertainty in global trade. In the UAE, the volume weakness in 3Q2018 is mainly due to loss of low-margin throughput, where our focus remains on profitable cargo and, while the near-term volume outlook in Jebel Ali remains challenging, we have taken measures to maintain profitability.

On our wider portfolio, we have made good progress in strengthening our product offering to play a greater role in the global supply chain as a trade enabler. We continue to focus on delivering operational excellence, managing costs and disciplined investment to remain the port operator of choice. We are also pleased to state that despite the softer volumes, we are on track to meet market expectations.”

Businessmen And Investors

Who came first? The chicken or the egg ? The egg cannot “come” so it obviously was the chicken. The centuries old question has been solved.

Ok lets try another question. Who came first, the son or his father? Its son because only after he was born, did his father become a father.

If you notice, the world is no longer “confused.” Its very clear on a lot of things. Well only in the talking aspect of things. We have learnt to have quick answers to so called tough questions due to the art of articulation and not necessarily having a proper answer.

Talking is free. So it really doesn’t matter these days on what one says. But in this whirlpool culture, the ones who have been caught on the wrong side and are “paying “for it are the businessmen or entrepreneurs. Let me tell you how.

A humble Indian guy became a barber. He was good at his work and slowly gained prominence in his field and was going steady till “ They” came to him one day. They now sold their “dream” template to him, as they do to several innocent businessmen. They are the powerful liquidity carriers and dream sellers called Investors. Suddenly he came up with several barber shops, added more through franchise model, added top line to his business, did a brand valuation and voila was ready for an IPO ( initial public offering or share issue ) of 600 million Indian rupees. His name is Javed Habib. God knows about the IPO but his dreams still live on as long as some private investors keep coming in and out of his balance sheet.

A small retailer of flavoured milk in Delhi had these investor visitors one day. From selling nice fresh Delhi milk in several flavours, he has now become what we call “Keventers” today. Valued recently at 1100 Indian crores.

By the way if you sell a single finger on your hand for 1 million, both your hands are valued at 10 million and the entire body at 1000 million, this is how “Value” is decided these days.

So several businesses, which needn’t have any scale in themselves, are scaled up through liquidity. Barber, milk seller are examples I have used above. But the real issue is that today, with this becoming common knowledge to all, most businessmen have started to dream this big valuation theory, forgetting that hot money that investors carry can pull down the business if we dont focus on what the business needs and do what the investors need. Let me give an example:

Indian Banks.

The banking story is such that investors earlier took “Loan Growth” as a parameter to judge a banks performance and valuation. So banks stopped seeing what needs to be done with their own banking business and rather wanted lofty valuations for themselves and their owners for which they incessantly went on lending lending lending to match the criteria of the investors “ Loan Growth Valuation Theory” Now, because they didn’t do what the business needed, which is loan disbursement diligence, suddenly we have a banking crisis. Look here what happens, the same investors suddenly pull out the hot money from such banks and deploy it to banks where there is lesser loan growth but asset quality is good. Which means HDFC bank is the clear winner because it never went into the wholesale loan business inspite of the world doing it at the cost of its own growth. It did what the business needed and here you are today. India has a 12 lac crore banking NPA crisis. So see how investors changed their parameters overnight, This is the caution that businessmen need to take.

Work for the needs of the Business and not the Investors. They will follow you as long as your business is right. Never forget this mantra ever. You don’t chase investors, let them chase you.

In our logistics field, the investors have made “top-line” as a parameter today. In E-commerce and logistics, they say, profit is not important, top-line is everything. And we are all swayed by the glamorous stories of loss making dot coms who have sky high valuations. Logistics companies having 3-4 % PAT levels but market caps decided by top-lines. Top companies have even given internal long term messages on “top-line” sales like 2 billion ( those who know will know which company i am referring to).

To aid this top-line growth, balance sheets are being loaded on the debt side. Equity is being diluted. Bad customers are bought into the system. Systemic risks are created due to easy terms to customers. The party is on and the valuations are on the books and exchanges. But I can assure you that every businessman true to his heart will never like it deep within him. He knows well that what he is doing is not good for the business, its only good for his valuation. The parameter given by the Investors. Let him not forget that hot money has no loyalty to anyone. Be loyal to your business and its goals and do what is needed to be done. Not what they want us to do. I am sure the day is not far when all eyes will open and the parameter changed to : Bottom -line” Till then, keep swimming.

Redefining Indian Law On Arrest of Non-Owned Ships: Sunil B. Naik V. Geowave Commander:- A Review

The Supreme Court of India, on 9th March 2018, marked a milestone in the field of Admiralty law while deciding the case, Sunil B. Naik v. Geowave Commander by incorporating the principle that there cannot be an arrest or restraint of a vessel in possession of a non-owner, but owned by a complete third party, for a maritime claim against the former. The Admiralty law in India regarding this was silent. It was this huge uncertainty that was set aside by the apex court through the above decision.

The facts of the case are as follows-Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. awarded a contract to one Reflect Geophysical (a Singapore based company) to carry out seismic survey off the coast of Gujarat near Okha port in 2012. Reflect Geophysical then entered into a bareboat Charter Party Agreement dated 29.06.2012 to charter the vessel ‘Geowave Commander’ from Master and Commander AS, registered in Norway, for 3 three years.

Later, Reflect Geophysical contracted with one Yusuf Abdul Gani (on 01.10.2012) and one Sunil B Naik (on 30.10.2012), to give on hire the vessel ‘Orion Laxmi’ to work in support (like towage duty) and 24 fishing trawlers being the chase vessels to assist in survey operations to be conducted by chartered vessel Geowave Commander respectively. When payments due to Yusuf Gani and Sunil Naik were defaulted by Reflect Geophysical, they approached the Bombay High Court to enforce their claim against Reflect Geophysical by arresting the vessel Geowave Commander. Even though the court gave an ex parte decree to arrest the vessel, later it refused to order arrest, holding that Reflect Geophysical was not the owner of the vessel Geowave Commander, and hence the claims against Reflect Geophysical could not be enforced through the arrest of the chartered vessel.

On appeal by the two aggrieved parties, the Supreme Court bench consisting of Justice J. Chelameswar and Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, considered three important principles while adjudicating the matter. One being the precedent set by the SC itself in the landmark decision of MV Elisabeth &Ors. v. Harwan Investment & Trading Pvt. Ltd. “The foundation of an action in rem against a ship arises from a maritime lien or claim imposing a personal liability upon the owner of the vessel.” Here the claim was only against the charterer of the vessel and not against the de jure owner of the vessel. Thus the chartered ship cannot be arrested for a claim against its charterer. The court observed that “the crucial test would be of ownership, which in the present case clearly does not vest with Reflect Geophysical and the de facto ownership under their bareboat charter cannot be equated to a de jure owner, which is necessary for an action in personam”.

The second point that crossed the Hon’ble Court was Article 3(3) of the International Convention on Arrest of Ships, 1999, which forbids the arrest of ships not owned by the person liable for the claim, except under a judgment based on a contrary law of the respective state. The Indian Admiralty law is silent on that matter, hence no judgment for arrest of such a ship could not take place. The SC itself has stated in the Elizabeth case (supra) that in the absence of any specific statutory provisions, maritime laws of the world can be adopted and adapted by Indian courts. Therefore, though India is not a signatory to the above convention the principles of the same can be utilized appropriately.

Finally, despite the fact that the court considered the plea of “beneficial ownership”, it didn’t really agree to it while adjudication. In Medway Drydock & Engineering Co. Ltd. v. M.V. Andrea Ursula, it was observed that “a ship would be beneficially owned by the person who, whether or not he was the legal or equitable owner or not, lawfully had full possession and control of her, and, by virtue of such possession and control, had all the benefit and use of her which a legal or equitable owner would ordinarily have”. But the fact that the above judgment was dissented by the Queen’s Bench itself in l Congreso Del Partido was duly noticed by the court. From the latter case, the court concluded that “mere possession of the ship, however, complete and whatever be the extent of the control was not found good enough to confer the status of ownership. The “beneficial use” of a chartered ship would not ipso facto convert the status of a charterer into a “beneficial owner.”

Hence, the Apex Court of India laid down a strong precedent that there cannot be an arrest or detention of a vessel in possession of a non-owner, but owned by a complete third party, as a security for a maritime claim against the former. The fact that the most significant admiralty case of Elisabeth v. Harwan Investment & Trading was cited and International Convention on Arrest of Ships was referred, where India not being a signatory, are all fascinating points to be noted. It is also interesting to look into, how the plea of “beneficial ownership” wasn’t really given importance for adjudication.

A Unique Presentation

If you think that presentation is all about how others see you, then perhaps it’s time you reassessed your opinion. You may well ask, “Why” because surely the importance of how others receive your presentation is paramount? Well this was undoubtedly the case before the advent of the internet. In simple terms, if you presented someone with a fancy and beautiful box of chocolates, they were more impressed than if you gave them exactly the same chocolates in a brown paper bag. Case proved – presentation matters!

So, what has the internet done to change this? Basically, it has stopped many of us thinking about the actual presentation and made us more focused on ourselves. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Snapchat etc., constantly bombard everyone with information about others. In many cases this creates jealousy within us. Why can’t we have the lifestyles of David Beckham, Deepika Padukone, Emma Watson or Shahid Kapoor etc.? Consequently, instead of naturally thinking about the effect our presentation has on the recipients, the focus has shifted. There is now a tendency to place more importance on our own importance. The internet has been educating us, through our on-going interactions with social media, that we are all equally unique and correspondingly important. Otherwise, how do you explain the need to gain more followers on Twitter or more likes on Facebook than anyone else?

It used to be accepted that people might normally have a unique talent in one particular skill. Consider the university professor who was brilliant at maths but known to be quirky and eccentric in most other things. However, many now believe that being unique, in one area, allows them to claim some right to have a valued opinion in others. This has led to celebrities, who are only known for their singing or acting abilities, telling us how we should vote politically or what toothpaste we should use!

It is true that the meanings of words change over time but let’s look at ‘unique’. Its original meaning was: –
‘Being only one of a particular type or having no equal’.Obviously such a definition completely excludes the possibility of there being more than one. Applying this logic how can we all be unique?

This idea of uniqueness and individuality, with its implied sense of self-importance, has worryingly started to result in the breakdown of team spirit. You only have to look at football and the way a main celebrity player attracts all the credit, as well as the money! Invariably their ‘uniqueness’ causes friction, within the team, who have to live under the celebrities shadow. In our workplaces, if we all believe we are unique then it restricts our ability to receive or give advice and perhaps come up with ideas, because others are afraid to compromise our uniqueness. This philosophy makes us more resistant to being told we might have got something wrong or that there is a better way of doing things.

The current global state of politics highlights this, especially in America and the United Kingdom. A topically trending ‘meme,’ (the name for an image, video or piece of text, typically humorous that is spread rapidly via social media) shows ‘NPC’ (non-player characters) protesting how they are all unique. The absurdity of computer-generated random characters having some sort of influential uniqueness is laughable. But consider this:- ‘Every snowflake is unique but it has totally no individual effect in a snowstorm’.

So where does this leave us? To adapt a famous quote:-‘No person is an island, entire of themselves, because everyone is a piece of the continent.’

In order to better ourselves, and also help others, we mustn’t allow the internet to suck us into being isolated from the needs of others. Not everyone is interested in knowing about our recent stay in hospital, even though we got hundreds of likes on Facebook. The recent pictures posted of a Seychelles holiday might have got hundreds of likes, however the chances are some were really envious and, even though they posted ‘like’ actually disliked them! Consequently, it would have been better not to post them because doing so caused envy. As the well-known logic goes, this negativity might well come back and bite you when you least expect it.

Good interactive presentation still relies on the premise that the importance of the recipient comes first and foremost. We must shrug off our feeling of self-importance and uniqueness. Resetting the threshold, raising the bar when self-importance kicks in, will give us a better perspective about our family, friends and colleagues. Interestingly the Victorian-era theatrical English partnership of Gilbert and Sullivan summed up the dilemma very well, in these lyrics from their 1889 comic opera, ‘The Gondoliers’. It’s probably well worth keeping them at the forefront of our minds.

‘When everyone is somebody, then no one’s anybody’.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

‘Righteousness’ was a word which former India President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam used in most of his speeches. Its frequent use made me ponder on the meaning which may be defined as, ‘a quality of being morally correct and justifiable’. It helped me recognise that in our lives, both personal and professional, there are situations where we have to take decisions that may not be so comfortable for everyone. I have personally found myself, many times, in such a dilemma. The way forward is to remember the concept of ‘righteousness’. When we are able to justify our thoughts and decisions as being right, we should not hesitate in taking the initiative. I have never delayed acting decisively about an issue which is correct and good for the larger group.
My observations indicate that a large majority are reluctant to be as quickly and effectively resolute, especially when bold decisions are needed.
Their biggest problem seems to be that they don’t have the courage to say, “No”. I have always found that if one strongly disapproves of something then there is little point in trying to appease others by saying, “Yes”. To do so will not only destroy yourself mentally but also weaken your self-esteem. Why do others find it so troublesome to say, “No”?
It is because there is a fear of rejection, not being liked by others or anxious at having to perhaps stand-alone upholding what you believe?
Whatever feeds such reluctance can be assuaged by remembering Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s concept and start acting with ‘righteousness’. The more you do so the more you will be prepared and confident to take meaningful decisions, for the good of others and your own well-being.
This latter sentiment is so appropriate when we realise the tragedy that has unfolded in my home state of Kerala. The relentless force of nature’s floods has brought disaster and heartbreak. “For the good of others and your own well-being”, provides a mantra spurring all to wholeheartedly join in supporting efforts to help the rescue services and provide succour for those in need.
I pledge to do all I am able to do to assist others in their time of great need. I express my sincere prayers on behalf of CSS Group and myself; knowing that ‘Righteousness’ being shared by all, amongst us all, will see Kerala recover from this terrible tragedy.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT LINE

The Lighthouse editorial team sat down with Sreenath V. – Vice President Operations & Projects – to know more about his dedication to the field of logistics and freight forwarding, what his motivation is and more.
By: Minaal Pervaiz


If you were to describe yourself in under two minutes, how would you sum it all up?
Team player, flexible and open to constructive ideas.

How did you first get involved in the Shipping, Liner and Logistics industry?
Getting into the logistics industry was purely an accidental occurrence. I started off my career by being part of the customs clearing division and as opportunities presented themselves, I kept learning various aspects of the logistics industry.

Tell us how you got to join the CSS Group. Why did you want this job?
CSS was – by 2002 – a very fast-growing organization. I met Mr. Kala [CEO and Founder, CSS Group] and Mr. Anil Kumar [Finance Director, CSS Group] through a mutual friend. We sat down for a casual cup of coffee and we discussed the role they had in mind. Now, 16 years later, I sit here as the Vice President of Operations & Projects!

What do you think it takes for an employee to get ahead in the CSS Group?
There is no alternative to hard work and when it is combined with honesty and passion, growth is imminent. There are a lot of opportunities still around for youngsters in the CSS Group. If they understand that growing laterally too is an achievement, then for sure they will [get ahead].

Could you tell us about the portfolio you are currently managing?
Presently I work along with the operations team of Consolidated Shipping Services, be it the CFS or the SCM requirements, take care of the Transport department activities, and commercially involved with the projects division under Mr. Raj George.

How would you handle failure?
Failure can only be understood as being a corrective step towards success. Why not embrace it, learn and look forward to new doors?

What do you enjoy most about working here?
Being a part of a big family, where everyone cares for one another, works as a team to find solutions and then enjoy the fruits of their labor – together.

What is your personal philosophy on working with logistics and freight forwarding at this point?
I have moved ahead in my career simply due to the passion I developed for the job I do. I am still learning the nuances of this industry. The logistics industry is an ocean and you never get tired of learning new things on a daily basis.

What do you think the current state of affairs are in the industry and possible (positive/negative) predictions using your knowledge at this point?
The market is on a course of stabilization with various aspects affecting our industry. As CSS, we have always ridden the wave quite fine over the years and are confident that we will ride this one too very smoothly. Of course I am not predicting anything but – as a team and putting in a consolidated effort – we are earmarked to do well.

What motivates you?
It is the team, the people that one works with that motivates one automatically. I appreciate every day that I can walk into my office and interact with such willful and intelligent colleagues. That is my motivation – I keep going because I want to, not need to.

MOVING TRUCKS TO MALE

Air Craft rescue firefighting trucks, moved by CSS Projects team
An interesting project movement was successfully concluded by CSS Projects team lead by Sony Mathews recently. The details of the movement were explained to Lighthouse by Sony himself. Air Craft Rescue Firefighting trucks were the cargo. There were Two trucks to be moved from its origin at Jebel Ali to the destination at Male. The experienced CSS projects team conducted the pre-move survey of the route and the destination prior to the commencement of the move. Each point of the entire project was carefully assessed to ensure a fool proof and smooth journey of the cargo.

The trucks which were Out of Gauge, were loaded on to Flat Rack containers using special lifting gears. “We enjoyed each point of the project execution. The movement was challenging at the same time exciting. Two cranes were engaged for tandem lift. Special wooden supports were provided for the accurate positioning of the trucks onto the flat racks. The trucks were lashed on to the flat racks and secured with suitable chains & buckles”, mentioned the team leader.

All documentation and sanction pre-requisites were properly met so as to ensure a hassle-free cargo movement. “Project movements always demand experience and skilful handling. Executing the movement on-time with cent percent success is what we look into, at CSS. Our past experience and successful results attract clients to us when such demands pitch in”, commented Raj George, Senior Vice President, Projects Oil & Energy, CSS Group, after the successful project completion.

CARGO BY AIR

Project Cargo Movement from Dubai to Lagos

CSS Projects team has released details of an Air Project Cargo movement done to Lagos recently, to Lighthouse. The said movement was successfully handled and completed by the Projects team at CSS Dubai. 68 tons of Pipes, flanges, stud bolts and nuts were air freighted from Dubai to the African destination.

“Extensive examination of the scope and aim of the project movement needs to be analyzed before commencing such projects. Our experience in the field of project forwarding helped us a lot in this regard” said Sajith Vijayan, Manager, Projects Oil & Energy Division, CSS Dubai.

As per Sajith, the main challenge in this particular project was managing the movement within a short time frame. The entire cargo was moved in four different lots and different aircrafts, based on cargo movable on passenger flights and cargo flights and with minimum transhipments. The scope of the project included collection of the cargo, completion of airworthy packaging and per the airline guidelines and doing the airfreight.

“Timely follow up with the airline companies and updating the client about the status of the cargo in regular intervals becomes indispensable to keep the movement robust. The assistance from the air freight department at CSS Dubai needs a special mention here. They have done a commendable job in successfully executing this project”, mentioned Sreenath V., Vice President, Projects Oil & Energy Division, CSS Group.

The successful completion of this air project cargo movement has once again proved the trustworthiness of the Projects division of CSS Group, who have already in its credit a long list of renowned Project cargo movements in the Middle East over the last two decades.

MOVING EMOTIONS

Yacht & Marine Logistics, with care

CSS Homeward Bound – a domestic and international relocation company and also a division of the CSS Group – carried out a successful international movement, involving Yacht & Marine Logistics, this past month.

A Four Winns Horizon 260, with specifications of 7.93 (L) X 2.59(W) X 1.93 (H) mts. And weighing in at 4,580 lbs., was shipped to the USA.

The team successfully secured the client for his need to move his personal effects and property, in this case utilizing not only our relocation services but also our Yacht & Marine Logistics’ skills.

All pre-requisites from the client’s side related with the move were handled, including lashing, building a custom-made fabricated cradle, and more.

Kimberly Ola, International Moves Coordinator said, “The team finalized equipment and internal divisions needed to carry out the job, with the client being promptly updated on every step. The job was successfully executed, surpassing our client’s expectations.”

The CSS Group is a world leader in the provision of marine logistics, offering global boat transportation and freight forwarding via air, road, rail and sea from a worldwide network of offices and exclusive agencies.

The CSS Group is the preferred shipper for many of the world’s leading yacht manufacturers. Services include access to shipping cradles, CSS Load Masters and Surveyors overseeing all operations, all cargo handled directly through CSS’ local offices, as well as offering general freight services for Marine Spares and Equipment.

GPLN AGM


CSS attends GPLN AGM in Bremen


CSS group participated in the 15th annual general meeting of Global Project Logistics Network (GPLN) in Bremen, Germany. CSS Group was represented by Raj George, Senior Vice President, Projects Oil & Energy division and Narayan Tagore, General Manager CSS Bahrain & Qatar.

“GPLN is a wonderful assembly of Project Logistics professionals that provides great opportunities to discuss and formulize new ideas. We have pleasure in being a part of this network and gain a lot of mileage from attending the annual meet regularly,” commented Raj George.

This meeting gave CSS the opportunity to meet the GPLN members face to face and efficiently build professional relationships, to discuss past, current and future business, and develop a range of business possibilities. This partnership brings together project cargo experts and independent project logistics specialist companies from around the world, all of whom have an expert focus on project logistics.

“Being an active Project Logistics company CSS gain a lot from being here. GPLN goes beyond networking, offering visibility on the current biz trends and practices in project logistics” mentioned Narayan

Break bulk Europe is the continent’s largest exhibition designed for the break-bulk and project cargo industry. It is bringing together EPCs, ports, forwarders, transporters and other cargo specialists and industry experts. The exhibition offers a multitude of networking opportunities, executive presentations focused on Europe’s economic and transport issues. A chance to meet with over 500 exhibitors and sponsors, representing the entire industrial project supply chain Network with more than 10,000 participants and a lot of new business.
The event provides a dynamic conference, along with a range of educational and training workshops.

AUTOMOBILE LOGISTICS

Logistics for transporting vehicles from port to port requires maximum reliability, safety and at the same time adequate network. The ever-growing demand for automotive logistics brought in CSS Group into this highly perfectionist job. CSS offers full rage of services from point of collection to point of delivery. State-of the art storage facilities, trained technical man power and fleet of own vehicles makes the company equipped to serve complex requirements. The extensive global network enables CSS Group to provide its service to both B2B and B2C clients.

From the “auto racks” which allow for effective and environmentally friendly loading of vehicles in shipping containers to specialized handling of high end vehicles, the CSS Group is has become a trusted name in “auto logistics” in the region. The proven success of auto logistics through Sea, Rail, Road & Air and a handful of satisfied clients gives an added confidence to the team at CSS.

The new warehouse facility in Jebal Ali combined with the previously existing facility, gives an unparalled infrastructure to cater to this segment of the business in the region. CSS facilities at Sharjah, including a covered area suited for storage of vehicles and the open yard are already popular with customers looking for safe and secure handling of vehicles.

Service offerings:

  • Door- to- door automobile transport
  • Underbody protection and cavity sealing
  • Pre-delivery inspection and cleaning
  • Mechanical & electrical servicing
  • Wrapping and Lashing on flat rack / Container
  • Clearing all documentation works
  • Storage services on demand
  • Photoshoot on demand

DP WORLD ACQUIRES LEADING PORT RELATED LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS PROVIDER IN EUROPE

DP World acquires 100% of Unifeeder, the largest container feeder and growing shortsea network operator in Europe
Dubai, UAE, 7 August 2018: Global trade enabler, DP World today announces the signing of the acquisition of 100% of the Unifeeder Group (“Unifeeder”)1 for €660 million2 from Nordic Capital Fund VIII and certain minority shareholders. Based in Aarhus (Denmark), Unifeeder operates the largest and most densely connected common user container feeder and an important and growing shortsea network in Europe, serving both deep-sea container hubs and the intra-Europe container freight market. The Group reported revenue of €510 million in 2017 and EBIT margins in line with other asset-light logistics operators. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and expected to be earnings accretive in the first full year after completion. It will be financed from existing balance sheet resources and is expected to close in 4Q 2018.


The acquisition of Unifeeder will further enhance DP World’s presence in the global supply chain and broaden our product offering to our customers – the shipping lines and cargo owners – with a view to ultimately reduce inefficiencies and improve the competitiveness of global trade. The current operations of Unifeeder are complementary to DP World’s existing business and provides future growth opportunities.
Unifeeder, founded in 1977, is an integrated logistics company with the largest and best-connected feeder and growing shortsea network in Northern Europe with connectivity to approximately 100 ports. The company provides efficient and sustainable transport solutions for international container shipping lines between international and regional ports and shortsea services to cargo owners with fully multimodal door-to-door solutions, combining seaborne transportation with road and/or rail. The business is cash generative and operates on a highly flexible cost base.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World, said: “We are delighted to add the Unifeeder brand under the DP World umbrella, which supports our strategy to grow in complementary sectors, strengthen our product offering and play a wider role in the global supply chain as a trade enabler.
“The ever-growing deployment of ultra-large container vessels has made high-quality connectivity from hub terminals crucial for our customers and Unifeeder is a best-in-class logistics provider in this space with a strong reputation in Europe. Our aim is to leverage on the in-house expertise of Unifeeder and to accelerate growth in this scalable platform to deliver value for all stakeholders. Unifeeder operates on the same common-user principle as DP World and adds to the Group’s strong value proposition to international shipping lines and end cargo owners in making the global supply chain more efficient and cost effective.”
Jesper Kristensen, CEO, Unifeeder A/S, said: “We are excited to join the DP World Group as we believe that Unifeeder will benefit from the Group’s significant expertise in the wider supply chain and excellent relationships with shipping lines and end cargo owners. Not only is there commonality with our business models but we also share the vision of serving our customers through removing inefficiencies and delivering sustainable shareholder value. We have enjoyed great success over the last five years under Nordic Capital’s ownership, and we believe that the Unifeeder brand within the DP World Group has the opportunity to accelerate growth, expand further and take the business to the next level.”

OA OD

Its a dark night. The nascent moon is deeply hidden by the dark cumulonimbus clouds forming over Mumbai. Heavy rains have lashed the city. Nothing is visible outside the glass window of the hospital guest lounge overlooking the Arabian sea. The relatives are waiting with bated breadth for the doctors to come out of the diagnosis centre to get an update on the patient. Their worst fears haunting them. And then , the doctor comes out and nods his head in affirmation. He has confirmed the disease. Another chip down to this deadly new disease: OA/OD. She has consumed most of the world and almost every 2nd person is inflicted.

I remember distinctly that each decade throws up a new disease which leads the charts for a long time till something better and newer emerges. So the period of the 1980’s belonged to Tuberculosis. TB as we know it by its nick name. The 1990’s belonged to Heart disease. Attack aayega toh? (hindi for : what if one gets an attack?). This fear ruled this period. The 2000’s started with cancer raising its ugly head. And cancer went all over the place. Disease had gone global with the world economies going global. A heart attack would mainly relate to the heart. But cancer was more cosmopolitan. It could affect any part from your brain to your liver to your breast to your prostate. I reckon it had a larger reach than even the best logistics companies like DHL, UPS, Fedex etc. Another reason why these diseases ruled in their times as the undisputed leaders of human body misery was the fact that they captured the creme de la creme of the world like celebrities in movies, business, politics and fashion.

So Nelson Mandela had TB.
David Letterman, Elizabeth Taylor, Barbara Walters had heart disease.
Bill Clinton had heart disease. Common, even the Clintons have it.
Hugh Jackman, Sheryl Crow, Lance Armstrong were caner survivors.

Back home in the Indian subcontinent, our very own Amitabh Bachchan had TB. The founding father of our neighbour Pakistan ( love thy neighbour said Jesus, anyway) had TB. The tallest leader of the universe The Thalaiva Rajnikanth had Chronic Bronchitis and believe it or not Viral fever. What a shame. And then Yuvraj Singh and Lisa Ray are the cancer survivors we know.

It has also been observed that as you go up the value chain in the economy and as your individual wealth and nation wealth increases, you qualify for better diseases which is why the poorer nations get TB even today, slightly more wealthy ones get Cancer and Heart Disease. But then all of the above does not cover the disease which I want to talk about. OA OD. The disease that is the ruler of the information age. Took birth around 2010 and then onwards at its peak today.

Over Analysis ( OA) Over Discussion ( OD) . OA OD.

In textbook parlance , the situation in which the tongue and brain make an unholy partnership and the ears sign off on a pilgrimage is called OA OD. In this disease, the tongue keeps saying something on the brain impulses and one talks and discusses on topics ranging from politics, national interest, sanitary pads, cricket, economy, logistics business, trade wars, GDP, baby burps, yawning, size of the male ….. ego, god, religion, buildings, cars etc
It is important to note that ears need to be logged out and you need to have ZERO listening skills or minimal listening. The environments in which the disease grows is social media, conference rooms, meeting halls, forums, news rooms etc The person discusses everything yet achieves nothing. In the end, what comes out is only “Khichdi” ( Indian staple diet of lentils metaphor for gross confusion) In a chartical representation, I enumerate that the stages of human growth are as follows:

a. Talk
b. Think , Talk
c. Listen , Think , Talk
d. Listen , Think
e. Listen

When you reach stage E, you are up there. OA OD entangles you at stage B or stage C.

I have written several paragraphs on this disease. Do I have the symptoms? God save me.

REBUILDING KERALA


CSS Group’s urgent Donation Drive for Kerala’s Flood victims

August saw the worst natural disaster in over a century in the state of Kerala, India. Severe flooding caused by torrential rains saw over 445 people dead, 15 missing within a fortnight, and at least one million evacuated, with all 14 districts of the state being placed on red alert.

The CSS Group’s offices across the GCC initiated a CSS Donation Drive through its online platforms from the 15th to the 27th of August, 2018 welcoming contributions from within its ranks, as well as its dedicated customers, and the public.

With the aid of the Group’s partners, an immediate air freight shipment with food and medicine, followed by a 40-ft container packed with relief materials – donated by employees and the public – were sent directly to Cochin.
“My deepest condolences to those who lost their loved ones, their homes and so much more. We are here to support the people and hope this token can bring some relief to their suffering,” said T.S. Kaladharan, Founder and Chairman of the CSS Group.

CSS Group’s offices in JAFZA, Al Quoz, Garhoud, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi were open to receive donations from the public. The multinational logistics and freight forwarding company then sent forward this relief material, addressed to NGO’s and certified aid providers, in the country.
The CSS Group’s GCC offices collected over 2,650 cartons of relief material; 400 employees across its international offices also proceeded to donate a day’s worth of salary towards the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund in Kerala, India.

The Group would like to personally extend its thanks to Navio Shipping who donated the 40-ft containers used to deliver relief material to the people of Kerala. Navio Shipping is one of the leading liner agencies in the Middle East based in Dubai, representing a wide range of NVOCC principals. They offer consistent service operations across the Middle East, Upper Gulf, Far East, Europe and South Asia.

MARITIME INDUSTRY IN THE DECADE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

(continued from July edition)
Challenges and Opportunities – Singapore’s journey towards digitalization in 2018

Innovative players are bypassing the traditional shippers with new and cost-efficient digital business platforms that deliver more benefits to customers. In 2018 the Maritime Industry is reinventing itself, ushering in containerization, larger vessels, and electronic data exchange. The industry is also poised to make a drastic progress and growth in maritime financial recovery overcoming some of the constraints like fuel costs, entry of larger vessels in the market and also the new environmental regulations and standards.

Progressive ports are also embracing the digital breakthrough. Digitalization has helped the transformation of ports and terminals. Smart technologies have replaced the old systems that support the basic infrastructure and tools that handle cargo, manage traffic, customs dealings, safety assurance, and monitoring energy use, thus reducing wastage. Some ports worldwide have tied multiple individual systems into a single interconnected port-wide platform.

On 16th April 2018 the United Nations Maritime Organization has approved a strategy to eliminate carbon dioxide emissions altogether by 2020. The Maritime Singapore Green Initiative  also have made efforts to reduce the environmental impact of shipping and shipping related activities to promote clean and green Shipping in Singapore. In 2011 the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore had decided to invest up to S$100 million over 5 years in Maritime Singapore Green Initiative, followed by the support from the maritime industry this was enhanced and extended till 31st Dec 2019. This initiative also makes Singapore’s efforts to a responsible flag and port state to clean and green shipping thus making it the most preferred Shipping hub globally.

The Singapore Budget announced on March 2018 that it will top up its Maritime Cluster Fund by S $100 million to help more transition to Digital and Automated maritime future. Senior Minister of Transport, Dr Lam Pin Min said that the latest amendments will lift the total investments in the MCF to $285 million. He also added that the introduction of the Maritime Transformation Map (MTP) will be rolled out over a period of few months and will co-fund the same with matching investments from industry partners, for the development of technology with high potential for industry applications. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore also have signed five Memorandums of Understandings (MOU) and two Agreements with local and international partners at the recently held Singapore Maritime Technology Conference (SMTC). These MOU’s are also aligned with the Sea Transport and Transformation Map that are designed to strengthen Singapore’s connectivity and help Singapore to take its Maritime Industry to be at par with the latest developments and adaptations of areas such as automation, data analytics, intelligent systems and cyber security. Thus Singapore has emphasized the importance of digital technology and innovations and is getting ready for a journey towards a better future for its Maritime Industry.

SUCCESSFUL FAILURE

It is usually the case, when starting to write an article for Lighthouse ‘Kaleidoscope’; a telling question is prompted, “What happens if the editor doesn’t like it?” This is invariable one of those uncertainties that arise whenever we start something new.

For someone, who is lacking in confidence, the fear of being rejected and failing stops them from moving forward. Whereas those who have learnt to embrace failure are happy to forge ahead.

The majority of successful people will be able to relate how they failed, yet went on to achieve greatness. They will also be able to explain that there is a mind-set to the art of admitting failure and learning from it. Whatever our situation in life our approach, and reaction, to failure can determine our overall happiness.

Interestingly motor manufacturer entrepreneurs, from different generations, have approaches which inspire a positive aspect to failure.

Henry Ford – Ford Motors said, “Failure provides the opportunity to begin again, more intelligently.”

Ratan Tata Chairman emeritus of Tata Group, when making a surprise appearance earlier this year at Tata Motors said, “We should all plan for being leaders and not followers.” He was remembering, no doubt, that successful leaders know how to rebound from failure. Both Henry and Ratan see failure as an opportunity, something to envelop.

But one of the hardest things to say is, “I’ve failed.” However by admitting it, we are releasing ourselves from being weighed down by it. Of course this isn’t easy as we have been taught, from an early age, that failure is bad so why should we welcome it?

Well consider the experience of acclaimed inventor Thomas Edison. His school teachers said that he was, “too stupid to learn anything.” He was fired from his first two jobs for being, “non-productive.” To top this Edison made some 1,000 unsuccessful attempts at inventing the light bulb. When he finally succeeded a reporter asked, “How did it feel to fail 1,000 times?” Edison replied, “I didn’t fail a 1,000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps!” This example highlights a unique characteristic of successful people – their ability to carry on with optimism, building on what they have learnt from failing.

There are those amongst us who will say I cannot afford to fail. This attitude is usually brought about because we don’t take time to count our blessings. When faced with a rather gruesome university exam paper which he feared failing; a student recalled that he was so wound-up that he decided, instead of cramming up to the last minute, to do something different. He got on his cycle and went out into the countryside. It was a bright sunny warm day and sitting down on a grassy verge, the thought suddenly came, “If I fail I will still be able to cycle here and enjoy what I am doing now – lazing in the sunshine.” Guess what? This student passed the examination with better than anticipated results. So by counting your blessings, it is often possible to spur yourself to success because failure has been put into its proper perspective.

Considering these ways failure can help focus our minds for better outcomes.

1) Failure makes success taste even better; because once we come to terms with failure we reassess our ability
to take greater risks.

2) Embracing failure inspires us; because we can identify our best skills through failure.

3) Failure grounds us. We realise that we are human and not always right.

4) Recognising that it’s only natural to fail and that everyone fails, even if they hide the fact. Like learning
to walk we may fall down but we keep on trying until eventually we can run.

But what happens if we suddenly realise something has gone really horribly wrong and it’s entirely our fault? Whatever happened, we were trusted to do a job, we failed and now we need to tell others. An initial reaction is to ‘duck and cover’ because, depending on how bad we screwed-up, it could mean the end of our career, job, status or reputation. Whilst many will try to weasel out of it, the fall-out will still be flying and probably hitting others, causing them to lose trust in us. Admitting our failure puts us on the road to dealing with it and may often be the first step towards making a successful turn-around.

Of course the universal champions at weaselling out of things are often the bureaucrats. They use the fall-back defence to avoid admitting failure with a non-admission of guilt exemplified in the phrase, “Mistakes were made – but there are lessons to be learnt and we will learn them.” If we hear anyone in our company saying this, look out for the red flags of failure!

However in summary, by applying these guidelines and taking on board these examples we will hopefully find ourselves in the same winning mind-set as Microsoft founder Bill Gates and Amazon entrepreneur Jeff Bezos. Bill Gates said, “Once you embrace unpleasant news and see it not as a negative but as evidence of a need for change, then you aren’t defeated by it.”

Whilst for many Jeff Bezos gave a most telling quote. When considering failure he said, “I knew that if I failed I wouldn’t regret that, but I knew the one thing I might regret is not trying.”

So what to do if the Lighthouse Editor doesn’t like this article? Mark it up, not down, to experience and write something else – the next ‘Kaleidoscope’ will definitely be brilliant.

CSS GROUP’S CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY – DOING WHAT’S RIGHT

22nd August, 2018 – With the current state of affairs in Kerala, India the CSS Group’s offices across the GCC have decided to send two 40-ft containers directly as aid next week.

As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility, this multinational logistics and freight forwarding company will be contributing aid through a second round of donations, including opening up its Abu Dhabi branch to accept donations, supported by its loyal customers, employees and the public.

CSS Group’s offices in JAFZA, Al Quoz, Garhoud (Suite #308), Sharjah and Abu Dhabi will be accepting donations from the public.

The CSS Group will be sending forward relief material, addressed to NGO’s and certified aid providers, in the country.

Note: Due to the first round of relief material sent on Sunday, 20th August 2018 as well as aid restrictions, the CSS Group would like to urge you to now donate the following items as a priority, and any other unused items as a secondary donation, if you wish to contribute. Unfortunately, we cannot accept any more food or medicinal items.

ToiletriesToothbrush / Tooth Paste / Bath Soap / Sanitary Napkins Pampers (Adult & Children)
LinensBlankets Bedsheets / Pillow Covers / Bath Towels
Apparels / AccessoriesDresses/Clothes (Please Do Not Donate Used/Torn/Damaged Clothes) / Sandals / Slip-Ons / Undergarments(New Only)
Protection EquipmentRubber Or Gum Boots / Rubber Gloves / N-95 Masks
School KitsNotebooks / Pencils / School Bags / Pens / Erasers / Umbrellas For Kids
Clean Up KitsDetergents / Mops / Brooms / Cleaning Brushes / Scrubbers
Home AidFoldable Beds / Cooking Utensils / Crockery / Batteries (AA & AAA) / Torches

Our offices in JAFZA, Al Quoz, Garhoud (Suite #308), Sharjah and now Abu Dhabi will be accepting donations from the public following the schedule below:

LocationThursday (23rd August, 2018)Saturday (25th August, 2018)Sunday (26th August, 2018)Monday (27th August, 2018)Contact numbers and person
JAFZA8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. - 12 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.04 887 2 333 (Mary)
050 9381 790 (Aparna S)
Al Quoz (CSS Homeward Bound)8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. - 12 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.04 321 7 388
050 980 3 101
(Roshan/Nashmi/Arya)
Garhoud (CSS Logisitcs)8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. - 12 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.04 222 2 039 /
052 804 8919 (Aparna/Abilash)
Sharjah (CSS Kingston Logistics)8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. - 12 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.06 557 5 111
050 657 6 996 (Thomas)
Abu Dhabi (CSS Abu Dhabi)8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. - 12 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.8 a.m. – 3 p.m.02 643 1 717 /
050 625 8 598 (Sobith)

If you have any other queries, please email minaal@cssdubai.com or call 050 886 5 372 for further details.

CSS GROUP’S DONATION DRIVE – RELIEF FOR KERALA, INDIA

In view of the worst devastation in nearly a century suffered by Kerala due to the recent rains and floods, the CSS Group is leading a donation drive in the UAE starting from the 15th to the 19th of August, 2018.

Kerala is going through a difficult time, with thousands of people rendered homeless and seeking shelter in relief camps. While the government is doing everything possible to rehabilitate victims, there are still things that the CSS Group and its employees can contribute towards to provide aid.

The CSS Group has teamed up with Dubai KMCC – a registered organization in Dubai under the Social Regulatory & Licensing (Community Development Authority), Government of Dubai and Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department, Government of Dubai. It enjoys the trust and goodwill of thousands of Indians, especially Keralites, in recognition of its efforts to provide relief, both in the UAE and in Kerala.

We request all those interested to extend their goodwill by donating various relief material (please note, cash cannot be accepted. Only material aid can be sent forward). Examples of items are listed below – please note, you are not restricted to just those below – you can also donate anything from foldable beds/cots or even pampers.

TOILETRIESTOOTHBRUSH / TOOTH PASTE / BATH SOAP / SANITARY NAPKINS
LINENSBLANKETS BEDSHEETS / PILLOW - COVERS
BATH TOWELS
APPARELS / ACCESSORIESDRESSES/CLOTHES (PLEASE DO NOT DONATE USED/TORN/DAMAGED CLOTHES)
SANDALS / SLIP-ONS
FOOD ITEMSNO PERISHABLE ITEMS, ONLY PACKAGED
SCHOOL KITSNOTEBOOKS / PENCILS / SCHOOL BAGS / PENS / ERASER / UMBRELLA FOR KIDS

Our offices in JAFZA, Al Quoz, Garhoud (Suite #308) and Sharjah will be accepting donations from the public following the schedule below:

LocationSaturday (18th August, 2018)Sunday (19th August, 2018)Contact numbers and person
JAFZA8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.04 887 2 333 (Mary)
050 9381 790 (Aparna S)
Al Quoz (CSS Homeward Bound)8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.04 321 7 388
050 980 3 101
(Roshan/Nashmi/Arya)
Garhoud (CSS Logisitcs)8 a.m. – 12: 30 p.m.8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.04 222 2 039 / 052 804 8919 (Aparna/Abilash)
Sharjah (CSS Kingston Logistics)-8 a.m. – 3 p.m.06 557 5 111
050 657 6 996 (Thomas)

If you have any other queries, please email marketing@cssdubai.com for further details.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Whilst ‘Where have all the years gone?’ is sometimes used as a throwaway comment, it is frequently used when the passage of time takes on a delightful meaning. As it is exactly eleven years since the ‘Chairman’s Message’ was inaugurated in our Lighthouse magazine, I really do wonder where have all the years gone? I am overwhelmed that my message has proved to be a constructive platform which has resulted in timely comments and constructive suggestions from you – our readers. I am immensely grateful and express my gratitude.
The range of topics we have discussed both from within CSS and outside, interacted with major events which have flowed alongside with our development. The growth of CSS has been attributed to the healthy discussions and debates we have been able to have. The Chairman’s Message has been at the forefront highlighting issues and generating responses.
Any institution that seeks growth must have an attitude to always communicate positively. That doesn’t mean telling others what you want, it means being a good listener first. American educator, author and business man Dr Stephen Covey said; “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply”.
Taking on board the implications of this truism results in a company environment where a positive attitude to communication is encouraged. Putting active listening first, enables realistic forward planning where success becomes characteristically assured. Such interaction engenders friendship, loyalty and support which speeds along the passage of time. So, it really is no wonder that, after eleven years of the ‘Chairman’s Message’, I am happily asking: “Where have all the years gone?”

STRENGTHENING RELATIONS

CSS GROUP VISITS C.H. ROBINSON, USA

A Strategic Sales Campaign initiative by the CSS Group saw a team visiting C.H. Robinson offices in the USA. The CSS Group are exclusive agents for C.H. Robinson across the Middle East and the trip was primarily to boost trade growth and cement working relationships between the two organizations. The CSS Group team comprising of Ajay Krishnan, COO Freight Forwarding, Chandrakala, COO NVOCC/Ocean Freight Operations, and Rosh Manoli, Deputy General Manager Sales, visited C.H. Robinson offices at Los Angeles, Atlanta and New York, as well as the C.H. Robinson Global Forwarding Corporate Office in Chicago. The visit concluded with commitments to grow the already significant USA/Middle East traffic, as well as discussions specific to product development and compliance.

“The relationship with C.H. Robinson has been a growing one. We believe there is an opportunity to take this to the next level, implementing the strategy we discussed during our visit. A robust and growing relationship (while remaining an effective and compliant trade lane) is our objective here.” mentioned Ajay Krishnan.

“The relationship between C.H. Robinson and the CSS Group continues to be very strong. We are excited about the new business development initiatives and continued growth together,” commented Matt McInerney, C.H. Robinson VP Global Forwarding Sales.
“It was a great visit to C.H. Robinson in the USA. I would like to thank Mr. Dan Sluka and the C.H. Robinson team for organizing the meetings,” mentioned Chandrakala.

About CSS Group
Consolidated Shipping Group (CSS Group) provides end to end cargo and logistics solutions through their 28 offices present in the Middle East and South Asia. CSS Group today is one of the leading integrated freight forwarding solutions provider, with close to 25 years of experience in the industry.

About C.H.Robinson
C.H. Robinson is one of the world’s largest third-party logistics providers and provides a broad portfolio of logistics and transportation services, fresh produce sourcing and Managed Services. From surface to ocean to air, C.H. Robinson uses the strength of their global network and the visibility provided by Navisphere®, their global technology platform, to integrate supply chains, end to end.