Team NVOCC at CSS Dubai

As one of the most active players in the Middle East Logistics industry, today CSS Middle East NVOCC department is a consistent success story despite the fiercely competitive business environment. The NVOCC department of any successful logistics company should have a global reach through a network of offices and representatives worldwide. It should be well equipped with efficient warehousing and Container Freight Station (CFS) facilities to handle transhipment cargo and provide cost effective solutions both at origin and destination. This has been the forte for the success of CSS Groups NVOCC department.

Fida Asghar, NVOCC Team Manager for CSS ME said, “We have built our strong client base on personalized and tailor made services with end to end solution to all our clients. NVOCC department offers secured and scheduled services to connect with all main overseas markets through its international partners. Our prime objective is to provide cost effective consolidated ocean freight services to all our clients around the globe. We have console services to 40 plus direct destination worldwide along with more than 2000 destinations globally through our dedicated hubs. Services offered include door to door service, customs clearance, documentation, high speed track & trace facility etc”.

NVOCC department is backed by a young and dynamic team with wide experience in providing international freight services, the team is always willing to extend a helping hand, offer personalized and accurate services to achieve total customer satisfaction and loyalty.

NVOCC department will continue to excel in providing cost effective containerization solutions, customer commitment, professionalism and dedication complementing the foundation of CSS Group.

Budget Meet 2009 – CSS India

Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd. conducted its budget meet for the year 2009-10, on the 24th and 25th of April at Devas Farm House, Thrikkunnappuzha, Alleppy District, Kerala. As a usual practice, the meeting was a perfect blend of serious discussions over figures and entertainment to an intense level. The meet was inaugurated by The Group Chairman, T S Kaladharan. In his key note address, he mentioned about the exemplary growth achieved by CSS Dubai, even in the turbulent times of recession and expected to see more achievements on an overall performance level by the group company. Jairam K R, Director- CSS India welcomed the delegates from all offices who were present for the meeting, especially Fida Asghar, Team Manager- NVOCC, and Amith Surya Horra, Marketing Manager, who came all the way from Dubai and the Audit team, who came to attend the meeting.

Day one saw the presentations from South India. Chennai budget was presented by Eugene, Branch Manager and was supported by Jackson. Next was Bangalore. The Bangalore and Tirupur budgets were presented by Sunil, who takes care of the operations from these stations. Cochin budget figures were presented by Latha Asokan. Delhi was the next station who presented the budget. A special applause was offered to the Delhi team for their remarkable achievement during the last year. Surajeet, General Manager- North India presented the Delhi budget and the plan of action for the future. Nitin Bajpai, the new face for the Exports in Delhi was present with the team Delhi.

Discussions were made over the figures and the projections made by each station which summed up the days brain storming sessions. The musical performance by the young and talented singer Anand, was the main attraction for the day’s evening.

The exquisitely chosen and imaginatively crafted dishes for the menu for all the three days by Chef Riaz and supported by an ever enthusiastic culinary team of Devas, was grand enough to provide eternal memories for the taste buds of each and every person assembled for the meet.

Day two started with the presentation of Pune and then Ahmedabad took over the show. The presentation for Kolkata, which came next, was done by Arup Ray, Director- CSS India, due to the absence of the Managers from Kolkata. CSS Mumbai budget was presented by Rampal and was supported by the team comprised of Rahat and Hemant. Discussions were made upon the figures and the plan of action presented on the day by each station.

Dr. S V Nair, who joined the CSS India bandwagon as the HR head, presented his plan of action for the group HR policies. New review policies were adopted, as per the suggestions from the Group Chairman, to closely monitor the fulfillment of the new budgets. Arup Ray extended the vote of thanks to all those who have attended the budget meet 2009-10, and cited that despite of the economic slowdown, CSS India is all set to accomplish a significant growth in the years to come.

Joy in the workplace

You may have not realised that the average person, from starting their first job until they retire, spends nearly 25% of their time at work. This means, if you do not enjoy your work, you are spending 25% of your life being unhappy. Doctors, film stars, lawyers, nurses and teachers are united by one common motivational theme. In their chosen profession, they are not in it for the money alone; they are in it because they love their work. They thrive on the joy it brings.
It is often overlooked that similarly every worker needs to experience joy at work. Sometimes we need a pat on the back, a simple smile from a colleague. However these cannot replace our own inner enjoyment from achieving goals. It is easy for an actor to respond to the adulation of fans but they have to call on inner emotions when performing in front of a camera. It is only their inner joy which confirms their success. What is it in our work environment which brings us inner joy? Building on our joy will stimulate job satisfaction and achievements. This will benefit not only ourselves but also bring a smile to those around us.
Here are some points which may help you enjoy your work and work place.
Understand where you are and what you are
Consciousness about your profile and the surroundings can reduce mistakes of your job. Think about the job only, when you are into it.
Work comfortably
Do your work in a comfortable pace, keeping the deadlines in mind. Be practical when you take up an assignment. Avoid unnecessary haste meant only to satisfy your bosses. You will not be able to complete your job in a perfect manner.
Give priorities to your work
List out the jobs in hand and do the necessary one first. Prioritising the jobs can make them easier to complete.
Be involved
Involvement is a major factor for a successful job completion. You can never expect to see wonders, unless and until you are not involved in your job.
Develop routines
Creating routines can help you work resourcefully. You may have clear thoughts in the morning. Keep aside this time for reports and planning. Then move on to letters and mails which require lesser creativity.
Interact during breaks
Discuss about general matters with your colleagues. Avoid discussing official things during your breaks. Talk about your favourite sport, film or music and make the surroundings lively.
Appreciate your colleagues
Appreciate your colleagues for their accomplishments. Ignoring the success of your fellowmen for the sake of own glory can weaken the team effort.

Chairman’s message may/june 2009

Did you know that researchers have proved that a flock of 25 migratory birds flying in a “V” formation can fly as much as 70% further than a solo bird using the same amount of energy?

Did you also know that a team of cyclists similarly have a collective advantage riding together? These interesting facts demonstrate that “team work” achieves greater success.
Corporate life equally benefits from emulating the “team work” maxim especially in the field of Project Management. The combination of our project management initiatives, where unique objectives are coordinated within agreed time, cost and performance parameters, has resulted in an amazing growth within the shipping and logistics sectors. It continues to be important that we recognise the influence of developing technologies as having a catalytic role. In today’s world, having a strong Projects Team is a priority for any shipping and logistics company. Whilst there is no magic formula to ensure that projects are successful, I believe that human resources, materials, assets and time are of critical importance. The right proportion, the correct use and a targeted objective which combines them together at an appropriate time engenders a successful project. CSS, being one of the leading companies in the Projects, Oil & Energy sectors in Middle East, is gifted with a blend of professionals who advance our project enterprises successfully.

The Projects division started on a small scale and then moved on to become one of the major divisions of the company engaging in major projects that involved moving and erecting heavy machinery, construction equipment, oil and energy machinery, gas turbines, and huge yachts etc. Now known as The Projects, Oil & Energy Division they have developed into specialists additionally committed to the project management of Oil and Energy equipment. As a successful team within CSS they have undertaken prestigious projects in the Middle East and Sub-Continent. Whilst these are achievements, I am enthused by the example of the birds and the cyclists – flying further, moving onwards and achieving faster – this is how project management will beneficially direct and influence CSS.

CSS India started functioning from Pune

Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd. has started operations from its new office in Pune. This is CSS India’s 11th office. Pune is one of the premier industrial centers of India. It is home to one of the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturers. Apart from the auto giants, a large number of engineering, electronic and electrical industries have set up base in the large, medium and small scale sectors of this city. The industrial township of Pimpri Chinchwad, adjacent to the main city, is dotted with over 4,000 manufacturing units. This vast and well established industrial base has imbibed the city with a ‘professional’ ethos and work culture. Atlas Copco, Bajaj Auto, Bajaj Allianz, Bajaj Tempo, Cummins India, Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals, Kirloskar Oil Engines, Kinetic Engineering, Mercedes Benz India, SKF Bearings, Sandvik Asia, Tetrapak India, Thermax, Zensar and various other corporate giants are having its headquarters in Pune. The presence with an own office and dedicated manpower here will definitely be advantageous for CSS India in many ways. We wish all success for the CSS India team at Pune.

14th Anniversary celebrations

CSS Group celebrated its 14th anniversary staff party at Margham dessert camp in Dubai on Friday 27th February, 2009.

The annual party began at 4 pm with an entourage of Land cruisers arriving at the venue.
The evening commenced with musical octaves from Stephen and Anand.
Stephen Devassy, leading pianist and key board player, is a much sought after name in the Indian music industry with experience spanning over a decade. Anand Narayan, a stage performer and an upcoming play back singer from Kerala, India has stunned audiences with his soulful songs. Over 350 employees, their families and guests had the experience of a mesmerizing performance given by Stephen Devassy and Anand Narayan. Kids were entertained with various activities like face painting, balloon making, and bouncy castle throughout the party.

As the venue lit up towards the evening, the party took turn with mimicry by Viji Kumar& team, solo performances from Valencia, Earnest and Group performance from Aparna& team dancing away to the tunes of catchy bollywood songs. The formal part of the party started with T S Kaladharan, Chairman CSS Group extending his a welcome address expressing his gratitude towards the staff for their hard work and dedication.

This year ‘Employee of the Year’ award was shared between Githesh Krishnan-Accounts Clerk, Dubai and Rahul Radhakrishnan -Operations executive, Abu Dhabi branch for outstanding performance in their respective fields. This was followed by the Chairman recognizing and felicitating employees who have completed 10 years of service. The honorees were Ahmed Al Rais-Sr. VP Air Freight, Angeli Sudheer-Sales Manager, Suku Sudhakaran -Transport Manager, Raufa Sheikh -Pricing Manager, Baiju Sadanand -Asst. Manager, Sharon Cunningham-Sr.Coordinator, Sree Valsan- Transport Coordinator and Angela Fernandes- Front office Assistant.

Finally the raffle draw took place. This year’s raffle draw saw very attractive gifts which were sponsored by ever supporting business associates within the industry. The highlight of the evening was auctioning of the raffle draw prize ticket to any destination of Emirates Airlines. In association with EHCC Association, CSS Group has identified the need for providing medical treatment facilities to Charmson who has been paralyzed after a terrible accident at work site. The bid for the ticket began at 3000 AED ended up being sold for 11,000 AED. Oliver Hahn, IFS Doha contributed to this cause.

It indeed was a display of togetherness when all were seen enjoying every moment of the evening along with their families, colleagues & guests.

CSS India becomes a FIATA member

Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd. has become a FIATA (International Federation of Freight Forwarders Association) Member.

FIATA, a non-governmental organisation, represents today an industry covering approximately 40,000 forwarding and logistics firms, also known as the “Architects of Transport”, employing around 8 – 10 million people in 150 countries. FIATA has consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations (inter alia ECE, ESCAP, ESCWA), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the UN Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). It is recognised as representing the freight forwarding industry by many other governmental organisations, governmental authorities and private international organisations in the field of transport.

Console Shipping Services started its Indian operations from Tirupur in the year 2004 expanded its operations, with in a short period of time to become one of the strongest of its kind in India with centrally located offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Tirupur, Tuticorin, Bangalore & Coimbatore with a staff strength of more than 150 professionals. FIATA is the largest non-governmental organisation in the field of transportation. Its influence is worldwide.

Oil & Energy Projects

Signature of Trust – Projects, Oil & Energy- CSS Group

Gigantic machines, cranes, heavy equipments, labors from all over the world working tirelessly on the sky scrapers looking beyond the Skies, seen around the desert, apparently changed the chemistry of a country to become one of the most sought after, rather young and dynamic destination for a fortune hunter. Yes, we are talking about UAE and its phenomenal success over the past few years. The boom in construction brought in ripples which seemingly influenced other related segments and one among them was Projects Cargo movement. The economic slowdown has not negatively affected the project cargo industry, since it’s primarily driven by the price of oil and gold, and they have sustained throughout the slowdown. Continued growth in the Oil & Energy industry, aerospace, power generation sector, mines and a lot more industries growing at a faster pace amongst the so called third world countries, are also supporting the sustenance of Project Cargo trade.

The Projects, Oil & Energy division at CSS Group, is a proven success in its field of interest. Team CSS, at Projects, Oil & Energy, provides an end-to-end solution in the energy trade and project cargo movement. The need of the customers drive the business at the Projects division and the core competencies of the team are closely aligned to the customer requirements. CSS carefully studies the geographical and product mix of their clients to provide the best solution, optimizing their businesses and saving them time and money. Even though still considered as a niche market, the project cargo movement has grown from strength to strength because of the increased demand brought about with the diversity of Projects.
According to Raj George, Senior Vice President of CSS Group, “Our customers know they can count on us for scheduling flexibility, reliability, availability and management accessibility.” In this ever demanding segment where time is money, the Oil & Energy team at CSS has already carved a name for itself. By successfully handling some of the key accounts in the Middle East, the Oil and Energy team has proven themselves as being the undisputed leader in the area of specialization they have.
The success of any Project movement depends on various key factors. Project cargo shipments typically involve high expenditures, comprehensive planning, and superior coordination, all of which leave little room for error. They tend to consist of large and heavy pieces that are difficult and often awfully valuable, moving great distances. The shipper needs to be certain that the specialist, whether a person or company, has a commendable history of providing solutions that include some of the aspects inherent to their particular project. Consisting of a team of highly trained and experienced professionals, CSS stands guarantee to any unforeseen occurrences all through the operation they undertake and the success lies in this mere fact. “End of the day, it is not the value of the contract or the machineries involved, make the Project move. It is the skill of the people and contacts they have in the industry, which really matters”, says Sreenath V, General Manager, Projects Oil & Energy division, CSS Group.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

“Too much” are two words that, when applied to any issue, appear to make it unacceptable. Too much sport is bad for you! Too much money can cause you problems! Too much sun will damage your skin! However what is certain in the current global economic crisis “Too much bad news” only breeds mistrust and leads to even more industries being adversely hit. It is easy to play the “blame game”. Blame another country! Blame the banks! Blame real estate investors! Blame the greedy capitalists! In fact blame everyone else for the problems. There is no doubt that spending too much time trying blame others is bad for our economy because this “too much” ideology can easily cloud ones ability to identify challenging opportunities. A hapless driver on a busy Mumbai Street was struggling beneath the bonnet of his broken car, trying to get it started. The queue of traffic being held up had become enormous and all their occupants were shouting and blaring their horns. Too much noise! Eventually the driver of the broken car walked back to the driver of the vehicle immediately behind him in the queue and asked, “Why don’t you let me sit with you and help blast your horn, maybe it will get my car fixed more quickly?” Whilst we will no doubt face problems during these difficult times it is important to appreciate that, by helping others face their challenges, we may also help our own progress. If the drivers of the cars blaring their horns had all come to the broken driver’s assistance, not only would the car have been fixed quicker, but everyone would have also been able to move sooner rather than later. Challenges and problems provide opportunities to enable us to move forward, develop and make friends. It is a similar distinctive culture within CSS which will ensure we recognise and seize on the challenges and opportunities. “Too much”, may provide an excuse for others but, if analysed and viewed with a positive attitude it will produce a favourable outcome. Affirmation of this positive attitude, within CSS, will ensure we greet challenges in the knowledge that they provide opportunities to help our clients, friends and colleagues as well as giving us confidence to rise high above the “too much” debilitating mentality.

HOW TO BECOME A WINNER DURING RECESSION

It is recession the medias, economics gurus, politicians, journalists everybody has to talk about. Even though it is difficult to quantify the intensity or predict the impact period, the effect of recession influence on differently to different people. A retailer see fall in sales, a stock broker a fall in stock prices and for a manufacturer its impact will be on production side. But how do you overcome it has no authoritative theories or definitions.

Recession is a reality of business life. Managing to navigate and come out of the economic downturn is a critical business capability. In the past companies who have managed to emerge as winners must have had an approach which made it possible for them to do so. Trying to improve the business performance during these times may not take you all the way long , but companies who built financial strength during the good times acquired liquid assets , limited debt and focused on cash flow to remain flexible and unscathed.

It would be wise to narrow rather than broaden business portfolios focusing in areas on which a clear lead can be established. These acts can be described as a very conservative financial management, but there are other factors as well. Investing on Information systems to manage and gain insight about their key value drivers, to have more enhanced outputs and responsive systems.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at CSS

At CSS Group, CSR is first demonstrated within the organization from confirming to all legalities to high quality services and to promote high standards of ethics all over the company. According to CSS Group Chairman T.S. Kaladharan, “From the inception stage itself we are continuously pursuing the initiatives related to quality management, environmental preservation and humanity. The CSR activities towards the employees will be based on working towards a diversified workforce, a fulfilling workplace environment to achieve improved working conditions. To ensure safety and healthy working environment we constantly revise the measures within the organization.”

No smoking Please
One of the recent health care courses of action issued by the Group was Non Smoking Policy for CSS across its offices. This was introduced in Jan ’09 for prohibiting smoking within the working premises for all the employees in CSS Group offices world wide. This was well acknowledged by everyone.

A Magic Show with Cricket Bat

The day will be long remembered, by those who were lucky enough to watch, when balls were fired like bullets from the magical bat of Shaiman Anwer, of Team CSS. With his superlative skills, that day Shaiman scored an unbeaten 104 runs from just 38 balls stuffed with 12 sixes and 4 fours. Shaiman Anwar, the hard-hitting batsman who has taken do- mestic cricket by storm, was once again in full flow in the Sharjah Cricket Council’s Sharjah Invitation Tournament semifinal at the Al Dhaid cricket ground. Shaiman recollects, that eventful innings with pride and says that he was so happy for the achievement and being a CSS fam- ily member. He thanks the company management for providing such an op- portunity to him and wants to contribute more to his team in the future. He played with teams like Sialkot Cricket Association in the beginning and achieved a first class batting average of 40.14 in 5 Matches and 7 innings. His strike rate of 103.40 in the List A matches is an exemplar of his extraordinary performance with his bat. A champion performer with both ball and bat, Shaiman has always been an asset to the Cricket team of CSS. Born in Sialkot, in Pakistan, Shaiman had nurtured in him the value of humanity and love to help the needy. Even though Cricket is his passion, Shaiman loves reading and watching TV as well.

Empowered with E- Recruitment

As an ongoing research & development process with the IT department of CSS Group, many new innovative findings have been formulated with in the existing group site as well as the upcoming portal of the company. Recently, the CSS IT department had announced the implementation of the e- recruitment solutions with in its system. ERecruitment is a part of FINS Portal application to give scalable solution for HR recruitment. It is an integrated version of HR module available in FINS platform, which are responsible in supporting the applicational part of the Group’s software solutions. This process gives managers and recruiters full flexibility in vacancy posting, identifying & recruiting. On the other hand, an applicant will have transparency in the application status and tracking new employees. This e-Recruitment process is developed with the vision of providing self service recruitment capabilities to companies and to attain complete hassle free recruitment management. Users can view vacancy position by logging into the portal with their email address and a unique password. Email alerts are equipped for timely notifications. Online test can also be conducted successfully using this application.










Promenade into Paradise- CSS Kolkata family Pic-Trip

CSS KOLKATA family had their get together at the nature blessed Dooars, an exotic tourist destination at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. It was a joining filled with energy & understanding. Taking care of each & individual member, Arup Ray, Director CSS India led the group’s family get-to-gather in the month of January 2009. The entire team enjoyed the scenic beauty with the Murty river where the wild elephants come in the very early morning for drinking and bathing. Later in the evening having the Bon Fire and watching the Adivasi (Tribal) dance with their beats & rhythms along with the sumptuous wild cuisines CSS KOLKATA team has experienced a new smell of Unity with nature.

Pongal Celebrations at CSS Chennai

CSS Chennai office celebrated Pongal this year in a grand manner with traditional customs and all the festive joys. Pongal is one of the most popular harvest festivals of South India, mainly Tamil Nadu. Pongal falls in the mid-January every year and marks the auspicious beginning of Uttarayan – Sun’s journey northwards. Pongal festival lasts for four days. Celebrations include drawing of Kolam, swinging & cooking of delicious Pongal (A delicacy prepared with Rice, Daal & Ghee as the main ingredients)

Aiming to achieve

SANAL HARIDAS -Commercial Air Freight Manager, CSS GROUP SPEAKS TO SHEEBA ANTONY ABOUT AIR FREIGHT DEPARTMENT AND PROSPECTS FOR 2009

How different are you from other freight providers in the region?

CSS with its presence in the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent are having an array of services like Ocean, Air, land Transportation, Projects, Air Charter Services, GSA to major carriers and Supply chain management. This makes us unique in offering an integrated service that is unmatched in this region.

Does the price competition really affect the business?
Price is a perceived competition. Value addition and service levels are the factors which always keep our customers with us. However we should always be mindful that overpricing can make us loose our edge in any market situation. Especially during this trying time it is always advisable to keep our cost low and offer the best product, service and the best price to our customers. This will ensure loyalty and growth even in a challenging price market.

What are the new challenges that you look forward for the air freight in the Middle East?
During this period of Global recession and financial turmoil we see numerous challenges posed in the market place and such situations not only affect the financial and property market, it will also have some adverse affect on our offering as some of these sectors have been the catalyst for our growth in the recent past. In light of this during this downturn as an organization we need to look at new ideas and ways to stimulate the market place with our service offerings. This can especially be leveraged by seeking the feedback of our customer and looking at ways for us to be a part of their supply chain and meet the challenges faced together to sustain growth. If we are able to further contribute to our customers requirements in this manner we can come out of this situation together and build up a partnership that will go beyond this trying times securing a stable and trustworthy relationship in the future.

As you are aware the business landscape in UAE is taking a different turn all together .What are the plans for CSS Airfreight to tap this development?
CSS has to look at its strengths and find new ways of working with our customers, providing guidance and assistance to ensure a win-win situation during this period. This will eventually secure our future growth.

What about the changing face of the industry?

The freight and logistics business has been the same for centuries and continue to be a catalyst in growth for all works around. Most of the time this business is the last to be affected by any recession or turmoil as it is required in the best and worst of time. We have also seen this sector evolving into an integrated service offering, providing movement of goods, information and finance and that is exactly what we need to continue to do. We need to understand the challenges the industry faces and together work towards a way to resolve and take it forward to enhance commerce. As many economists say, during recession we need to spend more money and during good time we need to save, unless we put our minds to resolving and helping promote commerce we will not be able to build a strong organization and sustain growth. We always need to remember it is during the great recessions and challenges that corporates like Microsoft and many other organizations have become what they are today.

Could you brief about CSS Group’s association with service providers?

CSS works closely with a host of affiliates & agents in the U.S, U.K, Europe, Far East and Africa who are leaders and experts within their region and share a very good business relationship. They understand our commitment to the customers and fulfill every requirement in the same manner as CSS does. This is our strength and we need to capitalise the relations we have with our agents and affiliates and work with them to promote trade and commerce collectively.

Opportunities that you foresee in the air freight industry in the Middle East?

As you are aware the business landscape in UAE is taking a different turn all together .What are the plans for CSS Airfreight to tap this development? CSS has to look at its strengths and find new ways of working As mentioned above capitalise on emerging markets and promote dialogues and partnership with customers and grow together during this period. On the other hand we could also target African region during this period. Although various agents and carriers are already supporting this market, a very large area of this region is still being untapped. Dubai is well known for trade and the facilities offered by the government to the traders. If focused and serviced better, this route could be further developed and prove to be potential for the entire Middle East region.

Cochin Port – India’s first e-Port

Cochin Port Trust crosses a major milestone, as it becomes the first e-Port in India. Christened as ‘e thuramukha’ (e-Port) the project integrates the port’s operational, financials, real estate and human resources system on an integrated port information system. Once, fully functional, it will provide a real time interface with customs, port users, banks and the port community system of the Indian Ports Association (IPA). The system will provide a single window facility to the trade for filing applications, receiving service bills, payments and enquiries. According to the CoPT press release the project covers computerization of all its customer facing and internal back office processes to improve its all round efficiency. The motto of the project is accuracy, speed, efficiency and transparency.

Consolidated Shipping Logistics Centre2- SCM completes 5 years

The Supply Chain Management facility CSLC- 2, of CSS Group, completes its fifth year of operations at Jebel Ali, successfully. Supply chain management (SCM) is a necessity in today’s business. It is a dynamic issue. It is the focus of key issues such as the global marketplace for sourcing and sales and with outsourcing. Consolidated Shipping Group, being a front runner in the field of freight forwarding in the Middle East and Indian Sub continent, their customer base and the requirements have to be successfully harmonised with the state-of –the art infrastructure and service qualities. CSLC-2 is a towering example of CSS Group’s commitment towards its clients. CSLC-2 has an operational space of 100,000 sq ft with 21,000 CBM capacity. The 12,200 pallet positions, comfortable racking, storage areas, and the designated space for handling the value added services, makes CSLC-2 distinct. The entire warehouse comes under special security surveillance with the most modern equipments. For the hi-tech industry, dedicated storage area and special handling equipments are also available here. The SCM facility has wireless handheld and truck mounted technology to support both barcode and RFID methodologies. The value added services offered at the CSLC-2 are:

•Re working & Modifications
•Repacking
•Promo pack
•Palletizing & Shrink-wrapping
•Transportation & door delivery

Hareesh M Haridas, Asst. Manager, CSLC- 2 states that now the clients of CSS can take the full advantage of a standardized business, evenly supported by the Information technology solutions, affirming its motto of being the one stop solution for logistics. “We have become a significant SCM provider in the region, giving emphasis to innovation. CSS Group has always been keen in professional wokers and quality service. Company’s global network and image has always been a catalyst for CSLC-2 in its growth process. The global presence of CSS Group has brought in a handful of reputed names as clients to CSLC-2,” says Hareesh. Supply chain management seeks to reduce inefficiencies as to time, inventories and cost. Today the clients need best quality services at justifiable rates without compromising on the supplies. and RFID methodologies.

CSS Group, with a firm determination, started CSLC-2 with in the most competitive segment of UAE, with a vision to innovate and improve the quality. Today, the success story of this establishment re-affirms the far sightedness of the company and its management. From an average of 12,000 CBM per month in the first year, CSLC-2, is handling 20,000 CBM per month on an average basis today. According to Hareesh, “Eventhough the changing economic scenario and the globalization is inviting more challenges and stringent competition in the industry, CSLC-2, with its uncompromised service quality, is gearing up to conquer more heights in the future.” The advantages of an association with the Supply Chain Management facility of CSS could be cited in a few simple terms like enhanced customer satisfaction, cost conciousness, information sensitivity and quality. At CSS Group, Supply chain management is a process that crosses the organization.

Contact Details:
Consolidated Shipping Logistics Centre -2 –SCM
PO Box 18595, Jebel Ali, Dubai,
UAE Tel: +971 4 8873999
Fax: +971 4 8818696
Email: info@fmcglogistics.net

Chairman’s Message

VISION” is a wonderfully exciting word as it has so many stimulating meanings including – the faculty of sight, intelligent foresight, the manner of seeing or conceiving something, a mental imagination, a mystical experience or something of great beauty. “Share The Vision”, the theme for this year’s strategy meet held in Middle East aboard Costa Victoria cruise liner from 14th December, was designed to utilise all aspects of “vision”.  In these global turbulent times, we all need to be focused and visualise provocative ideas so that our creative business skills are aroused. Our C.S.S. strategy team was encouraged to visualise, produce and absorb ideas so they may be put to practical use. Such a process is vital to ensure we surmount the current challenges forced upon all within our industry. To emulate the ethos of our strategy meeting we must remain open to others’ thoughts and ideas. We should be prepared to listen more than we talk and be happy to change our opinion when new information demands it. New ideas often arise by listening to what others have overlooked so we may benefit from their unrecognised opportunities. We should be encouraged to ask questions, even when they may expose our weaknesses, so that team players may willingly guide and inspire us. If we avoid acting defensively when faced with constructive criticism then such situations will provide a beneficial opportunity to respond and interact.
Imagine breath-taking panoramic views across a sparkling pool where avant-garde design sets new standards of excellence. You may ask, “What has this to do with C.S.S. and our visions?” “Everything!” is my answer. This is a description of The Costa Victoria cruise ship that reflects the warmth and spirit of Italy, which is destined to be feted as one of the most exciting and stunningly beautiful ships of our time. A new vision within the C.S.S. Group, The Costa Victoria emphasises our enhanced strategies which will enable us to rise above this period of global recession. I am confident and enthused by our resilience, perception and visions, which I know will achieve greater rewards for all of us throughout 2009.
Wish you an exciting and promising year ahead !!!
                                                                                                                       T S Kaladharan

Cruising Italian Style aboard Costa Victoria

It was one of the most exciting strategy meets, CSS Group had over the years. Yes, it was truly overwhelming, breathtaking and grand aboard The Costa Victoria. CSS group’s sales strategy meet was held from 14th to 17th December onboard this stunningly beautiful floating luxury to which the CSS Group boarded from Dubai and travelled through Oman & Fujaira to disembark at Abu Dhabi. It carries 1928 passengers and has 12 decks for you to explore, out of the 14 decks in total, while you are at sea. The 790 member crew will pamper you and see to your every need. The massive vessel takes you to the ports of your dreams as you sail away into the sunset. It is becoming too poetic when you describe about this floating extravaganza.
CSS strategy meet had seen an increase in the number of participants from 50 the last year in Goa to 61 this year. The team comprised of CSS group members from Middle East, India & USA. Associates of CSS group, from Doha and Kuwait also attended on an invitation for this meet. The meet was formally inaugurated with a welcome note from the Group Chairman T. S. Kaladharan, as he invited all to “Share the vision” of the group for the future, the motto being the theme this year. Amith Surya Horra, Asst. Marketing Manager, who was also the team head for the organising committee explained about the four days programme for the event, and the details about the Cruise Vessel.
From the breathtaking panoramic Concorde Plaza to the sparkling indoor pool, ultramodern Pompei Spa and incredible Planetarium Atrium spanning seven decks, the Costa Victoria cruise ship combines the elegance of European style with the sophistication of American comforts.
Day one saw the CSS Volume being presented by Paul D’ Souza, Senior VP for Sales & Marketing, followed by, the team from Projects Oil & Gas presenting their status with the current economic scenario and the figures they had calculated. There after presentations and figures from the sales team of Dubai was presented. The Captain’s night was the attraction for the evening where in the Crew heads introduced themselves to the passengers, which was followed by the Gala dinner organised by the Costa crew. The appetizers are good but sometimes unusual, along with desserts and salads. The Casino opened till early morning attracting many, to part with some good amount of bills, on the Black jack table.
Day two started with the Airfreight presentation from Sanal Haridas, Commercial Manager. Presentations and budget figures were later on presented from the Land Transport department, CSLC-1, Abudhabi, Bahrain, CSS Logistics, and Business development in USA. A scavenger hunt organised by the crew animators, was the team building activity for the day. CSS India presentations were started by Mumbai by Rampal and later on moved on to Kolkata and Delhi. The bar-be-que night organised by CSS Group topped up the day’s events.
Day three saw the presentations being continued from the Indian offices and then the group’s corporate communications department had its presentation. Marketing department had their presentation on Day four which was followed by the open discussion initiated by the Management
It was then time to pack back with lots of memories aboard this mighty liner. The team CSS disembarked at the Abu Dhabi port after the long four days of sail away parties and much more to remember. The CSS sales strategy meet 2009, can be remembered as one of the most exciting and stimulating of all the strategies meets we had over the years past.