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EDITORIAL It is my pleasure to share that IPL 2020 — the famous T20 cricket tournament has been announced to be played in UAE starting 19th September 2020. Of course, there are measures included to safeguard health of players, coaches and rest of the team. Potential audience locally is eagerly waiting for guidelines and for the IPL matches to begin. Kanchan R Vora Director SCLG The LINK is the official publication of Kanchan R. Vora Supply Chain Logistic Group [email protected] (SCLG). The opinions and views contained in this publication are not Contribution Editors necessarily those of SCLG. Readers Ali Al Jallaf are adviced before acting on information Dr. K.M. Madrecha contained in this magazine, which is for Ravi Subramanyam general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstanc- Art/Production es. No part of its contents thereof may Steven Kobby be reproduced in any form without the permission of SCLG in writing. Photographer Biju PRODUCTION AND CONTENT COOR- DINATION Advertising & Markteting Supply Chain and Logistics Group [email protected] (SCLG) P. O. Box 124907, Dubai (UAE) Telephone +971 4 2877184 Email: [email protected]
CONTENT 3 19Aramex partners with Mubada- Abu Dhabi Airports Free la Healthcare to provide Zone more than doubles new door-to-door medical supplies tenants in first half of 2020 service to patients across the 22 H.H. Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi launches Ajman Free UAE Zone’s eight new economic incentives for H2 2020 3 Robinsons Global sets up 1,50,000 sq ft warehousing fa- 23 Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi cility in Thane, Maharashtra launches AED 36 million strategic warehousing proj- 4 SIG OPENS STATE-OF-THE- ART AUTOSTORE WARE- ect HOUSE FOR SPARE PARTS 5 TRANSWORLD GROUP AN- 25 Dubai retains its leading po- NOUNCES MILESTONE sition as one of the world’s AGREEMENT WITH DP WORLD top five shipping centers for 6 With the network fleet ex- the 3rd consecutive year panding beyond 1000 wagons Etihad Rail’s annual trans- 26 GCC Chemical Producers port capacity expected to Slash Emissions and Waste by reach up to 59 million tonnes a Third, Despite Increased Production: GPCA Report 10 DP World and Virgin Hyper- 28 Dubai Trade reinforces dig- italization with UAE’s first loop hail decision that brings “E-Delivery” order hyperloop systems one step closer to reality 13 Indian Railways build world’s 31 Bridgestone teams up with Microsoft to innovate with an first electrified tunnel to intelligent tyre monitoring run double-stack container system for enhanced safety trains 14 Japan Is Figuring Out How to 33 Nahdi digitally transforms Deliver Goods Untouched by Humans financial management 35 Siemens deploys its first mi- crogrid in the Middle East at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman 1 AUGUST 2020
CONTENT 37 Nestlé speeds up factory sup- port with augmented reality 38 Apple iPhone Assembler 49 How climate change, food 41 Joins Wave of Tech Invest- security will shape Middle 42 ment in India East’s real estate strategies noon to enter Egypt 55 Geodis Supports The Launch Of The European Clean UAE-based eyewear startup Trucking Alliance And Calls eyewa, has raised a pre-series For The Decarbonization Of B bridge round of $2.5m to Road Freight Transport build new capabilities to fur- 63 How COVID-19 has trans- ther strengthen its position formed the logistics and 3PL in the online eyewear space industry across the MENA region. 42 KOJ Group builds resilience 71 Maruti Suzuki reports sav- through digital transforma- ings made through greater tion adoption of rail 45 U.S. may need another 1 bil- 71 Volvo secures battery chain lion square feet of ware- with Circulor blockchain in- house space by 2025 as e-com- vestment merce booms Philippines launches first-ev- 47 To kickstart its recovery, 78 er automated cold chain fa- cility ORCA retailers must now harness 79 Unilever CSCO: Agility beats technology and data to im- forecasting when the supply prove shopping experiences chain is stressed How Customer-Centric Sup- 81 ply Chains Can Fuel Growth AUGUST 2020 2
LOGISTICS deliveries in a safe, consistent and timely manner. Aramex has de- Aramex partners with Mubadala ployed highly specialized vehicles Healthcare to provide door-to- that are quality assured and door medical supplies service to temperature-controlled to deliver patients across the UAE critical medical supplies and the fleet is equipped with the technology and • Up to 2,000 patients across the UAE will protective gear to be able to carry out receive necessary medical supplies to their the deliveries with utmost safety and doors on a daily basis care. • Aramex will leverage operational expertise and use specialized vehicles to We would like to thank the Aramex ensure safe and speedy deliveries team and other front liners for their unwavering dedication and Aramex (DFM: ARMX), a leading global provider commitment during these stressful of comprehensive logistics and transportation times and wish all those who have solutions, announced today that it has partnered been impacted a speedy recovery.” with Mubadala Healthcare, a unit of Mubadala, to distribute door-to-door critical medical Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Senior supplies to patients across the UAE. Vice President at Mubadala Healthcare, said: “We are pleased Under the agreement, Aramex will collaborate to join forces with Aramex to deliver with participating hospitals under Mubadala’s medications to patients’ doorsteps. Healthcare portfolio including Imperial Col- This collaboration expands our efforts lege London Diabetes Centre, Healthpoint and that aim to reinforce the COVID-19 Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi for next day delivery response through innovative solutions of over-the-counter drugs, prescription-only and services. medicines, and nutritional feed to affected patients that are recovering outside of hospital “As part of Mubadala’s facilities. #WeAreDedicated initiative, Mubadala Healthcare facilities are always Through the partnership, up to 2,000 patients looking for opportunities to ramp up across the UAE will receive the necessary their services to the community by medical supplies they need to recover which will making impactful partnerships with help alleviate pressure on the healthcare system local entities and authorities to protect and ensure government-mandated physical the safety of everyone and provide distancing protocols are respected. the highest standards of patient and caregiver care.” Commenting on the partnership, Anas Hijjawi, Chief Commercial Officer at Aramex Robinsons Global sets up said: “We are honored to be supporting the 1,50,000 sq ft warehous- health authorities and Mubadala in our united ing facility in Thane, Ma- fight against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). harashtra It is necessary to have the operational scale and expertise to be able to handle such crucial 3 AUGUST 2020
With a total investment of Rs 6.5 crore, LOGISTICS Robinsons Global Logistics Solutions has recently set up a new 1,50,000 sq its customers receive highly efficient ft warehousing facility. The facility has supplies. Located at the company’s machine 25,000 sq ft of temperature controlled assembly site in Linnich, Germany, the new area with a spectrum of +4 to -25 degree AutoStore warehouse plays an integral part Celsius at Bhiwandi in Thane district in SIG’s global spare parts management. of Maharashtra. This is the first such warehouse of the four such facilities As food and beverage products continue the company plans to set up by the to diversify, it is essential that production first quarter of 2021 in the country. This schedules run smoothly and to maximum warehouse is part of a larger expansion capacity without downtime. The new plan for RGL that includes the introduction AutoStore warehouse enables SIG to adapt of value-added services like transport and respond flexibly to changing customer brokerage and document storage, along needs in the quickest possible time, with the addition of four more warehouses guaranteeing speedy delivery of spare parts across the country in the coming months. to keep the versatile equipment running The warehouse is designed to create efficiently. This seamless service means cost-efficient systems that leverage continuous and optimum performance machine learning and Internet of Things of SIG’s filling systems, maximum for surveillance and people management. technical availability and precisely tailored maintenance. SIG OPENS STATE-OF-THE-ART AUTOSTORE WAREHOUSE FOR The new warehouse uses a modular system, SPARE PARTS where stockable box containers are loaded, stored and then unloaded by robots, guided SIG’s newly built, state-of-the-art and by routing software. The system comprises fully automated AutoStore® spare parts the storage, warehousing and order picking warehouse for SIG filling machines, processes for all items that can be stored implemented by Hörmann Logistik, has in containers. The storage processes and now been put into operation and ensures retrieval are performed vertically. This closed that system prevents unwanted material removal and ensures effectual 24-hour operation. LOGISTICSThe robots are extremely energy efficient with a consumption of just 0.1 kW/h, saving energy by more than 90 percent compared to more conventional solutions. Franz-Josef Mines, Global Assembly & SCM Director at SIG, commented: “With our new, fully automated warehouse system, SIG is well positioned for the future and is able to deliver spare parts quickly and efficiently. We’ve significantly reduced picking times compared to our previous system and can meet any customer order requirements at short notice, no matter how small.” AUGUST 2020 4
LOGISTICS SIG’s AutoStore warehouse puts Subcontinent and Far East through their customers and their production targets dense network. The central hub port as priority. The smooth running of at Jebel Ali (UAE) plays a pivotal role equipment means maximum production for a large part of the services. Both capability and timely product delivery the companies have a strong presence to retailers. Both are vitally important within trade routes west of the Indian for future growth, profitability and Subcontinent and complement the recent competitive advantage. acquisition of Feedertech and Perma Shipping, which have a strong market TRANSWORLD GROUP position in the trade routes towards the ANNOUNCES MILESTONE east of the Indian Subcontinent. AGREEMENT WITH DP WORLD Transworld Feeders Pvt. Ltd. and Avana Transworld Group announces a historic Logistek Limited maintain a comprehensive milestone in its Forty Five-year legacy, coverage of all main ports, terminals and with a strategic partnership with DP inland destinations in India. Avana Logistek World and its subsidiary Unifeeder Limited also provides first mile and last Group, strengthening its position mile delivery solutions within the Indian as a leading shipping and logistics domestic market. Both are market leaders conglomerate. in providing logistic solutions to cargo owners, traders, forwarders, and shipping Unifeeder, through its Unifeeder lines. Further, they will both complement ISC platform, will acquire (subject to and expand our ability to offer a broader regulatory approvals) three business range of India focused solutions. These units of Transworld Group, i.e. new entities will continue to operate an Transworld Feeders FZCO, Avana asset-light structure as per the Unifeeder Logistek Limited (including its subsidiary model, which delivers greater flexibility and Avana Global FZCO), and Transworld efficiency for customers. Feeders Pvt. Ltd. (the containerized Indian coastal and EXIM feeder shipping Mr. Ramesh S. Ramakrishnan, the operations of Shreyas Shipping and Chairman of Transworld Group and Logistics Ltd, excluding vessels and bulk Shreyas Shipping and Logistics operations). Limited, said: “Our strength lies in our strong customer relationships, local Transworld Feeders FZCO and Avana expertise and network across the Indian Global FZCO are leading independent sub-continent, which have allowed us to feeder and NVOCC (Non-Vessel deliver an efficient product to the market. Operating Common Carriers) operators, The acquisition of three of our portfolio offering container feedering services and companies will provide DP World and regional trade solutions connecting a Unifeeder ISC a robust platform to jointly wide range of ports in the Middle East, deliver a more complete range of solutions Indian to our customers. We are excited to be part of the DP World family and look forward to building on our continued legacy as a 5 AUGUST 2020
TRANSPORTATION globally renowned independent shipping cargo owners by delivering end-to-end and logistics conglomerate. We look solutions that remove inefficiencies in the forward to our partnership and a supply chain and accelerate trade growth to prosperous future together”. deliver value for our stakeholders.” Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group TRANSPORTATION Chairman and CEO, DP World, said: “We are delighted to announce With the network fleet these bolt-on acquisitions which give expanding beyond 1000 wagons us complete coverage in fast-growing Etihad Rail’s annual transport markets between East Africa, Gulf, capacity expected to reach up and the wider Indian Subcontinent. to 59 million tonnes Transworld Feeders and Avana are both strong and well-known brands His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed that handle approximately 1.2mn TEU bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirms, “Etihad Rail is per annum and operate in fast-growing establishing a sustainable national railway markets. Our Unifeeder ISC (Indian that will make a qualitative change in the Subcontinent) platform will continue freight forwarding and logistics sector.” to operate an asset-light, independent common-user platform, as we continue • Etihad Rail expands fleet to to build the Unifeeder brand, which is transport containerised and bulk freight best known for efficient connectivity, including petrochemicals, aggregates, flexibility, and reliability. raw steel, limestone, cement and construction material industrial and DP World and Transworld group have household waste, aluminum, food enjoyed a fruitful partnership over the commodities as well as general cargo years and we are excited to partner both domestically and internationally. with them as we build out our vision to become a global supply chain solutions AUGUST 2020 6 provider. We will continue to build on our strategic vision to connect directly with end-customers and beneficial
TRANSPORTATION Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway, is tripling its fleet by announcing the award of a contract for the manufacture, supply and commissioning of 842 new wagons bringing its total fleet to more than 1000 units to serve the whole network. This expansion paves the way for the rail transport to become a principal platform for freight haulage in the UAE following the completion of Stage Two, as it connects the entire country. The contract was awarded to CRRC Corporation Limited, a global leader in providing solutions for the sustainable development of the railway industry, during an on-line ceremony attended by His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court and Chairman of Etihad Rail and Sun Yongcai, President of CRRC Corporation. The contract signing was conducted by Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, and Wang Hongwei, Vice President of CRRC Yangtze Group, a subsidiary of CRRC Corporation Limited. Also present for the on-line event were senior officials and delegates from both companies. His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed Al Nahyan reviewed the overall construction work progress of Stage Two and witnessed the purchase approval of more than 800 additional wagons, increasing the rail’s annual transport capacity to reach 59M tonnes. Speaking on the announcement, His Highness stated: “Etihad Rail is building a sustainable national railway network designed to transform the UAE’s freight transport and logistics mode of operation by modernising the haulage map for the end users, customers as well as operators.” “The national railway network is designed to cater to the needs of customers and related industrial sectors, as well as existing multi-modal transport systems. Etihad Rail, the operator of a new, modern, scalable, and reliable mode of transport, will directly support the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership for economic growth and sustainable transportation.” He added. 7 AUGUST 2020
TRANSPORTATION The newly acquired wagons will be Stage Two of the Etihad Rail network manufactured according to specific GCC is moving forward rapidly, as all requirements, including state-of-the-art contracts for the construction, civil breaking, signalling, and communications works, Freight Facilities centres and control and safety systems, while being tailor the Operations and Maintenance made for the specific regional environmental headquarters have been awarded, conditions in general and for the UAE in plans approved, and ground broken particular. on the Stage Two rail corridors. When completed, Stage Two of the network By tripling its wagons fleet, Etihad Rail’s annual will extend 605 kilometres from transport capacity will increase by a factor of Ghuweifat on the border with Saudi 8, reaching up to 59 million tonnes per annum, Arabia to Fujairah and Khorfakkan transporting cargo such as containerised on the UAE’s east coast, while and bulk freight, including petrochemicals, connecting the ports of Jebel Ali in aggregates, construction related materials, Dubai, Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, industrial and perishable goods, waste, ICAD / Mussafah in Abu Dhabi and cement and all related construction materials, the Port of Fujairah, with the existing aluminium, perishable goods, as well as general Stage One line at Ruwais, effectively cargo, both domestically and internationally. uniting the major industrial ports and trading centres of the country while The variety of wagon types will provide the opening up cross-border rail traffic to necessary flexibility, schedule frequency, and the GCC. scale required by the market, enabling users to reduce costs and increase efficiency. In AUGUST 2020 8 addition, the increased utilisation of rail will reduce road congestion associated with truck movement as the sole current solution for transport mode for goods on land.
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DP World and Virgin Hyperloop TRANSPORTATION hail decision that brings hy- perloop systems one step clos- governments in the region including er to reality UAE, Saudi Arabia and India. It recently conducted the world’s first national- DP World has lauded a decision by the US level study in partnership with the Saudi House of Representatives to pass legislation Ministry of Transport. requesting a regulatory framework for the safe deployment of hyperloop systems. The “We seek to revolutionise regional Non-Traditional and Emerging Transportation transport and trade sectors through a Technology (NETT) Council in the US is passenger and cargo hyperloop-enabled expected to issue guidance within the next system, powered by artificial intelligence six months to help set out a clear regulatory (AI). This month, Virgin Hyperloop framework for the industry. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE’s Mohamed bin The Dubai- based provider of worldwide smart Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence end-to-end supply chain logistics launched the (MBZUAI), the world’s first graduate- ‘DP World Cargospeed’ international brand in level, research-based AI university, 2018. The first initiative of its kind, DP World to initiate a collaborative approach to Cargospeed represents a vision for the future research and innovation that we believe of cargo transportation. The new venture will culminate in making the UAE a centre was created through a partnership between for the development of this technology. DP World and Virgin Hyperloop to provide Our aim is to be a catalyst for global hyperloop-enabled cargo systems that will adoption and expansion of this new mode facilitate the fast, sustainable and efficient of transportation that will be faster, safer, delivery of palletised cargo around the world. cheaper, and more sustainable than other existing modes”, Bin Sulayem added. Sultan Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World and Chairman of VH, said: Virgin Hyperloop is the California-based “We are excited to see this revolutionary vision category leader in hyperloop development becoming part of the future of transportation, and the only hyperloop company in the as much as we are confident that Virgin world to successfully test its hyperloop Hyperloop will take a leap forward and deliver technology at scale. It has raised on a 21st century transportation solution. The more than $400 million in investments, decision is a huge vote of confidence that we including funds from DP World. are all on the right side of history. Jay Walder, Virgin Hyperloop CEO, The move, which brings hyperloop systems said: “DP World has been a key one major step closer to reality, validates our enabler of developing this technology decision to take this technology seriously and for deployment, and the inclusion of support this innovation.” hyperloop transportation in this legislation Virgin Hyperloop has been engaging with is a great moment in history for us and for DP World”. Hyperloop systems would not only support passengers, but also high-priority, on-demand goods, allowing deliveries AUGUST 2020 10
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TRANSPORTATION to be completed in hours versus days with greater reliability and fewer delays. It will expand freight transportation capacity by connecting with existing modes of road, rail, ports, and air transport, and will provide greater connectivity with manufacturing parks, economic zones, distribution centres, and regional urban centres. This can shrink inventory lead times, help reduce finished goods inventory, and cut required warehouse space and cost by 25%. DP World Cargospeed networks could also enable just-in-time, agile manufacturing practices. The system is powered by a zero-emission propulsion system that, in the GCC, could be completely unplugged from the grid. Indian Railways build world’s first electrified tunnel to run double-stack container trains Indian Railways has completed the construction of caving work for the one-kilometre long tunnel of Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) through Aravalli mountain range, near Sohna in Haryana. The plan is to ply electric goods train with double-stack containers through it in the next 12 months. Once operational, a double-stack container goods train will be able to run at a speed of more than 100 kmph in this tunnel. The tunnel connects Mewat & Gurugram district of Haryana and double line with higher OHE (Over Head negotiates a steep gradient on Equipment) to enable double stack container the uphill and downhill slope of movement on WDFC. the Aravalli range. The D-shaped tunnel has a cross-sectional area of 150 square metres to accommodate 13 AUGUST 2020
Japan Is Figuring Out How to TRANSPORTATION Deliver Goods Untouched by Humans Daifuku Co., an 83-year-old company that makes and sells material-handling Getting products from one place to another equipment, has seen its shares climb. Its with as little human contact as possible is market capitalization topped 1 trillion yen in becoming an imperative for businesses mid-May. as retailers, warehouses and transport providers adapt to the coronavirus “Daifuku will lead the way to a new normal pandemic, seeking to minimize the risk in the post-Covid era,” said Toshiharu of infections to their employees and Morita, an analyst at SBI Securities. “Its customers. visibility for mid- and long-term growth is Tsubakimoto Chain Co. is seeing more high,” he said, adding that Daifuku is one of demand for its sorting and conveyor the top global players in the industry with its systems as companies seek ways to solid technology. move things around, while startup Hacobu sees an opportunity to boost use of its Above Robotics, a San Francisco- online platform for trucks to exchange based startup, offers services to stitch information as they load and unload goods together various autonomous logistics and at warehouses, a process that’s still mostly transportation systems. Its cloud-based done on paper. software can get shipping companies, warehouses and driverless vehicles to The need for automation is especially acute communicate directly and handle goods in Japan, where a labor shortage was with fewer humans in between. Above already putting pressure on companies Robotics has had inquiries from companies to find ways to run their businesses with in Japan, South Korea and other parts of less people. Now, that transition is being Asia, according to Dirk Beth, a director at spurred on by the pandemic, which has the company. boosted online buying and raised concerns among shoppers about being infected by “We’re certainly seeing an acceleration of items delivered to their doors. All told, the interest because of Covid,” Beth said. “I market for next-generation logistics systems don’t think that’s going to slow down even if in Japan is set to more than double to 651 the Covid situation is solved today, because billion yen ($6 billion) through 2025 from now what companies are thinking is, ‘when 2018, according to researcher Fuji Keizai. is the next time this is going to happen “Demand for humanless systems will keep and people can’t go to work? How do we growing,” Masafumi Okamoto, division make sure that our goods get to the end manager at Osaka-based Tsubakimoto, customer?’” said in an email. More families are turning to electronic commerce to buy household Hacobu, the logistics-data company, teamed goods, and the manufacturer is getting more up with Hino Motors Ltd. in May to solve inquiries for its automated equipment, he issues such as a shortage of drivers. Japan said. has had a chronic insufficiency of drivers, with 85% of companies surveyed by the Japan Truck Association saying they didn’t have enough, according to a 2019 poll. AUGUST 2020 14
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REGION There are still a lot of areas where humans needs to embrace the use of data and are needed in logistics facilities. If the artificial intelligence in managing truck number of staff in warehouses is restricted fleets, autonomous vehicles and drones to prevent transmission of the COVID-19 to be more competitive globally, the pathogen, that could limit shipments Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and turn into lost sales opportunities, and Tourism said in a policy paper. For according to Takeshi Kitaura, an analyst at example, the agency called for the use of Bloomberg Intelligence. drones in less populated, mountainous areas. “The incentives for automation have gone up,” Kitaura said. He predicts that many “The big challenge for us is regulations, providers of automation machines will see which are different all over the world” for a drop in demand from automakers as the new technology such as drones, said Beth pandemic depresses sales of automobiles of Above Robotics. across the globe, and that the transport and logistics sector could make up for that decline. Japan’s bigger retailers are also looking to automate their operations. Rakuten Inc. Chief Executive Officer Hiroshi Mikitani said May 13 that his online marketplace is automating its logistics and installing new machines to reduce manual labor. Tadashi Yanai of Fast Retailing Co. also said the maker of Uniqlo clothing is actively investing in logistics and its supply chain. Mujin Inc., a company that makes REGION industrial robot controllers, said there’s booming interest for its solutions. Abu Dhabi Airports Free Logistics automation is now seen as Zone more than doubles a way to prepare for emergency, said new tenants in first half of spokeswoman Yuzuki Ishihara. 2020 Hisashi Taniguchi, CEO of ZMP Inc., Demand for space comes from which makes driverless carts and forklifts companies in the aviation, e-commerce for warehouses, said the number of clients and healthcare sectors using its machines to support logistics will increase by 150 to 200 this year. ZMP is The Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone now planning to list on the Tokyo Stock (ADAFZ) said it doubled the number of Exchange, after postponing it in 2016. new tenants registering with the Japan’s government is also behind the push into logistics automation. The country 19 AUGUST 2020
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REGION authority during the first half of 2020 as it and Saudi Arabia’s logistics firm SMSA attracted more international companies to Express. the emirate. “Through its work, ADAFZ helps to The free zone, a subsidiary of Abu supplement the comprehensive stimulus Dhabi Airports, recorded a 109 per cent packages implemented by Abu Dhabi’s rise in the number of licenses issued leadership, and ensures that international to companies, it said in a statement on companies can continue to have a robust Sunday. Most of the new tenants are and reliable partner in the emirate,” Shareef companies in the aviation, e-commerce, Hashim Al Hashmi, chief executive of Abu and healthcare sectors. Dhabi Airports, said. “Our investments have proven Honeywell recently helped set up the UAE’s particularly prudent during the current first production line for N95 masks in Al Ain, global pandemic, with our enhanced air in partnership with Strata Manufacturing, cargo and freight transport capabilities the aerospace unit of Abu Dhabi’s supporting the successful operation Mubadala Investment Company. of the health, food and beverage, and e-commerce sectors,” Adel Al Taheri, head The facility has an annual capacity of more of property management and leasing at than 30 million masks and has supplied ADAFZ, said. healthcare and emergency response teams across the Emirates. The UAE capital is focusing on attracting companies and talent in non-oil sectors — Saudi Arabia’s SMSA Express has such as advanced technology, healthcare, set up a branch within ADAFZ’s Abu aerospace, FinTech and agri-tech— Dhabi International Airport free zone, as part of its strategy to diversify the after establishing a 1,000 square metre economy from hydrocarbons. warehouse to be used as its first hub within the emirate, with a focus on air and land International companies joining the free cargo shipments. zone include industrial giant Honeywell 21 AUGUST 2020
Operated and regulated by Abu Dhabi REGION Airports, ADAFZ comprises of business, logistics and light industrial parks connected demonstrate the free zone’s commitment to Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Bateen to providing an ideal business environment Executive Airport and Al Ain International for continuous company growth and Airport. These parks are developed to development despite challenging global attract industry clusters such as aviation, economic conditions. He further pointed aerospace, logistics, and technology, driving out that the new package will specifically private and public partnerships, investment support small and medium enterprises and property development. (SMEs) that have been affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) by reducing the cost of doing business and boosting their commercial resilience. H.H. Ahmed Bin Humaid Al H.H. expressed confidence that this latest Nuaimi launches Ajman Free move will help businesses in AFZ achieve Zone’s eight new economic their desired goals and objectives by incentives for H2 2020 minimizing the impact of the current global health crisis on their operations. H.H. also • Latest move aims to support AFZ- affirmed his commitment to spreading the registered companies and follows initial spirit of hope and optimism by supporting package launched to help over 9,000 the business community of AFZ, which firms is a critical component of the emirate’s • Fee discounts and waivers to help economy. The newly launched incentives ease cost of doing business are positioned to further strengthen • AFZ reaffirms commitment to the free zone’s business-friendly ensuring business continuity amid environment according to the demands COVID-19 and requirements of the customers and registered businesses. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), Under the new package, AFZ will impose has launched AFZ’s eight new economic zero fines on bounced cheques and incentives for the second half of 2020. The cheque replacements, as well as zero fines new package, which includes significant fee on non-renewal of licenses. The free zone discounts and waivers, aims to ease the will implement also a 100 per cent waiver cost of doing business at AFZ while also on E-channel guarantee fee. ensuring business continuity. The launch of the eight incentives followed a package During the second half of 2020, new and earlier unveiled to provide assistance to existing companies in AFZ can have the more than 9,000 AFZ-registered companies. opportunity to take advantage of a three- month flexible instalment payment plan H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi on their business centre lease, flexible said that the newly introduced incentives instalment plan for six months on their offices, executive offices or warehouses rent, in addition to discount rates on company registration and a 25 per cent discount on labour accommodation. AUGUST 2020 22
REGION More than 9,000 AFZ- registered companies, both existing and new, will benefit from the new package, which is expected to ensure continuity and support business momentum in the free zone and its affiliated sectors. AFZ is keen on contributing to the emirate’s comprehensive development by continuously innovating its services to match the changing demands and requirements of the business community. The free zone is home to investors from more than 145 countries, providing businesses with streamlined and hassle-free setup processes at competitive rates along with other supporting products and services. Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi launches AED 36 million strategic warehousing project Project to enhance AFZ’s such as health, food and sustainable attractiveness & competitiveness development. The AED 36 million green as a preferred destination for project with a total built-up area of 9,070 M2 commercial & industrial activities. will consist of 82 units and service blocks that can be used as showrooms, warehouses or H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al industrial facilities. Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), launched a strategic project to The size of the multipurpose units starts from build a number of warehouses that 100 M2 and they can be used individually or by serve an array of targeted sectors combining multiple units to form larger units, depending on the needs of investors or tenants. 23 AUGUST 2020
REGION H.H. Al Nuaimi emphasized that AFZ is customers’ products and transport. constantly looking for ways and strategies With an aim to contribute to addressing to add further value to the emirate’s the rising demand for electricity and business environment, noting that the support the Federal Electricity and latest warehousing project will enhance Water Authority (FEWA) in this regard, the attractiveness and competitiveness the new AFZ warehousing project will of AFZ as a destination for business and use photovoltaic panels to generate commercial and industrial activities. He electricity, which will partially address added that the project will also support its electric power demand. Apart from environment protection initiatives and the installation of energy saving LED promote sustainable development by lamps to light up the units, street lighting reducing electricity consumption and and outdoor lighting in the premises of carbon emissions. the units will be fully powered by solar electrical panels attached to lighting Furthermore, the project increases the poles. The facility will raise the insulation amount of available space to meet the coefficient of the surfaces and walls requirements of investors by providing to minimize heat exchange, which will additional units that can be used for in turn reduce the amount of energy several purposes, including chilled storage required for cooling units. units and manufacturing facilities. It also provides sustainable options through This strategic project is part of AFZ’s the qualitative characteristics of storage commitment to achieve the goals of units, including solar energy technology. Ajman Vision 2021 in terms of enhancing Additionally, it is strategically located close the effectiveness and efficiency of to Ajman Port and Customs, ensuring easy government action in the emirate, inward and outward movement of accelerating sustainable development, AUGUST 2020 24
REGION and supporting the green economy. It The achievement can be attributed to the also forms part of AFZ’s contributions directives of the wise leadership to constantly to ensuring environmental protection enhance the legislative, regulatory frameworks and increasing the share of clean and infrastructure, marine services, and energy, which are among the priorities logistical capabilities, which also contributes to of the UAE Vision 2021. reinforcing the global community’s confidence in Dubai’s maritime sector. The index is Dubai retains its leading based on objective criteria, which include the position as one of the quality and efficiency of infrastructure, port world’s top five shipping productivity, the scope of maritime support centers for the 3rd services, and the competitiveness of the consecutive year business and investment environment, among others. Emirate’s continuing status as a leading global maritime hub Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of entrenched by latest International Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone and Shipping Center Development Index Chairman, Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA), said: “For the third year in a row, Dubai has successfully retained its Dubai has succeeded to maintain its position leading position as the first city in the among the world’s top five destinations for region to rank among the world’s top maritime shipping. The latest accolade is the five destinations for maritime industry outcome of the unwavering support provided in the International Shipping Centre by the wise leadership, in addition to the joint Development (ISCD) Index for the efforts undertaken by the public and private third consecutive year, ranking ahead sectors to enhance the components of the of Rotterdam, Hamburg, Athens, New maritime sector, to match the best in the York, New Jersey and Tokyo. The world.” emirate’s continuing status as a global hub for maritime shipping and logistics He continued: “Further inspired by this was revealed in a report that was newest achievement, DMCA will continue recently issued by Baltic Exchange, to enhance Dubai’s competitiveness on the and Xinhua, a London-based global shipping landscape, in line with the international news agency affiliated vision of H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al with the China Economic Information Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister Service (CEIS). of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, led by our comprehensive strategies to establish an The latest recognition once again attractive legislative and legal structure and underscores the competitiveness, further develop shipping operations, ports and attractiveness and inclusiveness of marine support services and operations and Dubai’s local maritime environment, maintenance of ships, taking advantage of which can be compared to the best in technological developments, innovation and the world. research.” 25 AUGUST 2020 “Outperforming other leading global maritime capitals such as Rotterdam, Tokyo and
REGION Hamburg, Dubai’s maritime industry has also become the first in the Arab world to accomplish this achievement. This milestone reflects the success of well-defined strategies that are aimed at constantly enhancing operational efficiency and safety. The modern ports with high absorptive capacity emerge as an important competitive advantage and a fundamental pillar for attracting marine investments to the emirate, which is today considered one of the most important business centers in the world. This recognition motivates us to continue our efforts to support Dubai’s position as a global business hub where East meets West, in line with the preparations for the next fifty years that chart a new stage of economic and development renaissance,” he concluded. Following its success in 2018 and 2019, Dubai has managed to maintain a top spot in the ISCD Index for the third consecutive year. ISCD is a ranking system that is based on several indicators and criteria such as the ability to attract maritime businesses, the extent of utilizing innovation and creativity in maritime centers around the world, and their general impact and participation in driving the growth of the global shipping sector. OIL AND GAS GCC Chemical Producers Slash Emissions and Waste by a Third, Despite Increased Production: GPCA Report Latest figures are according to GPCA’s ‘2019 Responsible Care® Performance Metrics Report AUGUST 2020 26
OIL & GAS Chemical producers in the Arabian Gulf have cut waste generation by 29% in 2019 and emissions by over 35% in the last six-year period, despite a continuous increase in petrochemical production across the region, a new report by the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the voice of the chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, has found. According to GPCA’s 2019 Responsible resulting in a 40% improvement over the last Care® Performance Metrics report “Our six years. Commitment to Sustainability” released today, the volume of waste generated by GPCA is also pleased to report that the GPCA member companies decreased industry achieved a new safety record in 2019, by a third from the year before, while with no fatalities recorded, despite an increase production went up 2%. The new of 23% in man-hours worked. This, coupled milestone was achieved as a result of with a significant drop of 51% in the Total successful waste reduction projects Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR), showcases undertaken by chemical companies in the uncompromising commitment of all GPCA the region in line with their commitment member companies towards inculcating a to sustainability and the circular culture of safety and compliance within their economy. organizations. Emissions reduction per ton of production recorded over the last six- years were even higher, dropping by 35% (NOx) and 39% (SOx), respectively. However, despite remaining at a steady rate in the previous two years, average GHG emissions (in tons of CO₂e) increased slightly in 2019 by 1.7%, which is largely attributed to higher production rates across the region. CO2 intensity has been on a downward trend since 2013, decreasing by 23% overall during the seven-year period. According to the report, GPCA Responsible Care® companies also implemented a series of efficiency projects to decrease wastewater generation and increase the efficiency of wastewater treatment at their plants, 27 AUGUST 2020
Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary TECHNOLOGY General, GPCA, commented, “Now in its 7th edition, the GPCA Responsible a sophisticated new technological tool that Care® Performance Metrics report has will allow supply chain stakeholders to demonstrated the chemical industry’s handle their complex import processes with commitment to sustainability and the just the click of a computer mouse. The highest degree of transparency. I E-Delivery Order is tailored to support trade, congratulate all 38 member companies logistics and supply chain players in trying who participated in the report, submitting times like the operational disruptions caused a total of 836 data entries, for their by the pandemic. achievements and success, and encourage them to continue on the Launched in the midst of the COVID-19 trajectory of continuous improvement.” pandemic that requires social distancing and Work From Home, the new system “The COVID-19 pandemic has presented enables shipping agents, freight forwarders innumerable challenges for all, but the and Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs) to efforts of GPCA member companies to move beyond their tedious over-the-counter ensure the highest level of safety, while operations that require physical visits and maintaining high production, highlights upgrade to a highly digitised process that the importance of the Responsible Care® delivers a cost-effective, efficient and time- program as well as the ability of chemical saving mechanism on the Dubai Trade companies in the region to respond to portal, all from the safety of their homes. the crisis with agility and resilience. That said, more needs to be done to truly The multi-faceted “E-Delivery Order” transition towards a sustainable future. I eliminates paperwork and liberates am confident that with the adoption of the the UAE’s trading community from the right technology, research and innovation, inefficiencies of manual intervention and and continuous investment in the skills of related costs. It minimises cargo clearance its employees, the chemical industry in turnaround time, increases competitiveness the region will improve on its performance and creates greater visibility of the cargo even further and help to meet global and flow. The process is further eased with regional targets.” Dubai Customs accepting digital Bills of Lading and Delivery Orders from agents. TECHNOLOGY AUGUST 2020 28 Dubai Trade reinforces digitalization with UAE’s first “E-Delivery” order Dubai Trade, DP World’s single window platform for cross border trade, has introduced the “Electronic Delivery Order”,
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“The world’s most modern industrial battery plant, making a world class product for the global market” AUGUST 2020 30
TECHNOLOGY Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and payment collections and reconciliation, Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region lower overhead costs and costs related said: “Adapting to new technological to operating counters.” Among Dubai innovations in the trade and logistics Trade’s global customers who are already industry has become all the more using the E-Delivery Order system are imperative in these days of global shipping agents Ocean Network Express, uncertainties created by the COVID-19 Peninsula Shipping, Hapag Lloyd Middle pandemic. Dubai Trade’s ‘E-Delivery Order’ East, and Gulf Agency Company (GAC) marks a major step forward in digitising the as well as top freight forwarders Globelink management of logistics to increase the West Star Shipping, Kuehne+Nagel and resilience of the trade and logistics sector, Freight Systems DWC. The company which are classified as essential services has already processed more than 17,000 by the UAE.” transactions for 1400+ customers and aims to keep growing and adding to this number Al Muallem added: “Throughout its history, exponentially. Dubai Trade has been known for its best-in- class e-services and its ability to integrate Bridgestone teams up various trade and logistics service providers with Microsoft to innovate in Dubai under a single window. It has with an intelligent tyre established itself firmly as a frontline driver monitoring system for of Dubai and the UAE’s global rise as enhanced safety the ideal base for trading across borders. Now, more than ever, the E-Delivery Order • Through its partnership with system offers our customers a tool that they Microsoft, Bridgestone has developed a can use from wherever they are to ensure unique Tyre Damage Monitoring System, business continuity. “ using Microsoft Connected Vehicle Platform (MCVP). Hussain Alblooshi, Chief Operating • The system aims to increase road Officer of Dubai Trade, said: “We have safety and reduce accidents caused by always been pro-active when it comes technical failure. to innovation for companies using the • This collaboration is the next step Dubai Trade e-platform and aim to provide on Bridgestone’s journey to become unparalleled trade solutions in the UAE. a global leader in sustainable and We are proud to introduce a country-first advanced mobility solutions. Electronic Delivery Order in the UAE’s trade ecosystem. This automation will make the Bridgestone, the world’s largest tyre and existing manual process redundant and rubber manufacturer, is collaborating with reduce the operational costs while helping Microsoft to develop a world-first monitoring the company in the adoption of sustainable system for detecting tyre damage issues delivery processes. Our customers will in real-time. These issues are a serious be happy to know that the new system matter, contributing to some 30% of all car eliminates 80 per cent of paperwork and accidents caused by technical failure. physical visits and cuts turnaround time by a similar count. Additionally, customers will experience seamless automated 31 AUGUST 2020
The final piece in tracking tyre issues TECHNOLOGY Moving forward Tyre issues take four main forms: This tyre damage monitoring system has inadequate pressure, fatigue, irregular other valuable applications. The system wear, and lastly, damage from curbs, not only understands when damage has potholes, or items on the road. occurred, but also where. It thus allows broader insight into road conditions and Fortunately, most of these issues can infrastructure, which can be used to already be reliably mitigated against. alert the agencies responsible for road TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring systems) damage issues to the presence and have been mandatory in all cars built location of potholes and other hazards. since 2012, and help motorists avoid low- Future autonomous vehicles could also be pressure problems. Regular service and beneficiaries of the system – as vehicles replacing tyres in time will guard against pass information about local hazards to wear and fatigue. others in the vicinity, as well as cloud data stores. The exception, and safety gap, has been tyre damage – which often cannot Currently, Bridgestone’s new Tyre Damage be detected without close, manual Monitoring System is available to all vehicle inspection, and which can potentially fleets and OEM’s that use MCVP. The occur at any time. Damaged tyres can partnership with Microsoft also enables lead to accidents. They can also adversely Bridgestone to further develop its solution affect other vehicle components, such as to meet the requirements of fleets and key causing damage to the wheels, and thus OEM partners around the world. create a further source of potential danger to motorists. A digital partnership for the future of mobility Now that gap can be closed. Bridgestone’s Tyre Damage Monitoring MCVP provides one consistent, cloud- System delivers real-time awareness of connected, horizontal platform across damage. It uses MCVP’s cloud framework digital scenarios on top of which customer- together with existing sensor data, from facing solutions can be built, including in- hardware that is already installed, and vehicle infotainment, advanced navigation, uses algorithms to detect events affecting autonomous driving, telematics and the tyre surface and carcass. The driver prediction services, and over-the-air can then be immediately notified of the updates (OTA). It includes the hyperscale hazard and act accordingly to remedy and global availability, that comes with the situation. There is currently no other Microsoft Azure. The platform also provides equivalent monitoring system available the necessary means to fulfil regulatory in the market. Alternatives would require compliance including GDPR. extra hardware to be installed. MCVP will provide Bridgestone with a digital infrastructure that will accelerate its delivery of connected mobility solutions, providing AUGUST 2020 32
TECHNOLOGY access to a multitude of contribution to road safety and proves how the Microsoft Azure cloud, AI, collaboration be tween industry leaders can unlock and IoT capabilities. In turn, new business opportunities ahead”, said Tara Prakriya, working with Bridgestone General Manager, Azure Mobility and Microsoft helps Microsoft grow its Connected Vehicle Platform at Microsoft. ecosystem of supporting partners, and enables MCVP’s customers to Nahdi digitally transforms financial integrate these partner’s solutions into their own management offerings. Saudi Arabia-based pharmacy retail chain, Nahdi Laurent Dartoux, CEO and Medical Company has digitally transformed its financial management, payment systems and financial planning President of Bridgestone EMIA, says: “Digital is such with Infor Treasury Management. a huge part of what we do This solution allows vast improvements to Nahdi today at Bridgestone; it’s imperative that we work with Medical’s financial management and planning capabilities, placing the company in a strong position industry-leading partners who can support our needs to expand its operations in line with Saudi Arabia’s today and in the future. By Vision 2030 ambition to increase the private sector teaming up with Microsoft, participation in the provision of healthcare services. we have the opportunity to bring our Tyre Damage Nahdi Medical operates one of the region’s largest pharmacy retail chains, with a network of pharmacies Monitoring System to millions of drivers, offering in all cities and villages across the Kingdom, a clinic in Jeddah and an expanding presence in the UAE. them better safety and However, the size and scale of the company presented peace of mind.” challenges for its finance department, which had relied “Microsoft partners with on manual systems for tasks including payments, mobility companies to financial control and financial planning. support their transformation into smart mobility services providers. With the Microsoft Connected Vehicle Platform, our mission is to help businesses accelerate the delivery of safe and personalized connected mobility experiences. Using MCVP, Bridgestone has created Tyre Damage Monitoring System that offers a remarkable 33 AUGUST 2020
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TECHNOLOGY “By deploying Infor Treasury, we have supply reliability and lower costs by completely transformed the way our combining electricity from solar, wind and finance department operates. We can battery storage. The microgrid at SQU now achieve far more with the same is the first deployment of the technology resources, while also gaining a wealth for Siemens in the Middle East, and is of data and analysis to help us plan the company’s first contribution in a new effectively as we expand our operation cooperation agreement with the university. with medical clinics in Saudi Arabia and new pharmacies in our home market Siemens will revamp the existing microgrid and across the GCC,” said Mohamed setup in the Smart Grid and Protection Seddeak, head of treasury and corporate Lab at the department of Electrical and finance, Nahdi Medical. Computer Engineering by adding smart grid features to it. This means that the grid Nahdi Medical deployed three modules – connecting renewable energy sources from Infor Treasury Management – with battery capacity – will have intelligent including Bank Account Management, control algorithms optimizing power Treasury Cash Management and production, storage and consumption in Treasury Payments. Combined, these real-time. The project is the third phase of modules have enabled Nahdi Medical to developing the Smart Grid and Protection fully automate and simplify all finance- Lab and is financed by Siemens and The related aspects of its business, from Research Council. With Siemens smart grid bank reconciliation to cash payments and features, students will be able to simulate working capital strategies, while enabling different situations and monitor the grid the company to collect and analyse behavior through a control panel. important financial data. “This project demonstrates Siemens’ Siemens deploys its first commitment to Omani society by advancing microgrid in the Middle knowledge of nationals in the Sultanate’s East at Sultan Qaboos top university, while exemplifying integration University in Oman of renewables in the energy mix and grid modernization,” said Claudia Vergueiro • Microgrid technology is part of a Massei, the Chief Executive Officer of Cooperation Agreement with the SQU’s Siemens in Oman. “We are proud to serve College of Engineering society, and to contribute to clean energy and to an energy efficient future in Oman.” • Siemens will also help SQU with curriculum development and revamp its Microgrids are transforming traditional Smart Grid lab which will contribute to the electric supply systems. Renewable training of Omani engineering students energy sources like solar and wind, coupled with more stable and intuitive grid Siemens will provide equipment and automation and control solutions, are giving software for a microgrid at Sultan Qaboos rise to localized grids that can operate University (SQU) that will improve power autonomously. This allows campuses, industries, or remote areas to operate their 35 AUGUST 2020 own grids, and can also accelerate the
TECHNOLOGY emergence of prosumers – or consumers diesel generators to power communities. who generate a surplus of energy and sell More renewable power capacity, it in the microgrid or to the main grid, if it’s along with stable, reliable and efficient connected. microgrids can help these rural areas “The College of Engineering (CoENG) phase out some diesel power plants. at SQU has worked jointly with Siemens Campuses, military bases, islands and to establish this important cooperation industrial zones can also benefit from for industrial knowledge transfer through microgrids, which provide reliable, stable specialized workshops, research and and sustainable power supply. development opportunities, capacity building and students’ training with a Siemens signed a Cooperation field work know-how. The CoENG will Agreement with SQU’s College of further coordinate for the dissemination Engineering earlier this year. The of experience and industrial knowledge agreement formalizes an existing to SQU community,” said Dr. Hadj relationship with SQU, and includes Bourdoucen, professor of Electrical and seminars with Siemens experts, summer Computer Engineering and the previous internships, knowledge exchange Dean of CoENG. “The current Dean, Dr activities and the contribution of the Nabeel Al Rawahi, strongly supports the microgrid lab. collaboration as it will benefit the college staff and students and will be an excellent addition to teaching and research activities at SQU.” Microgrids are expected to expand in Oman and across the Middle East. Some rural areas in Oman, for example, use small AUGUST 2020 36
TECHNOLOGY Nestlé speeds up factory support with augmented reality At a time when travel is restricted due to David Findlay, Global Head of COVID-19, Nestlé is expanding the use of Manufacturing at Nestlé, said: “Protecting augmented reality technology to provide our people is a top priority for Nestlé, remote support to its production and R&D something that has been clearly sites and to connect with suppliers. demonstrated time and time again during the COVID-19 crisis. The remote support Experts across the company and external approach isn’t just a response to COVID-19 providers are using remote assistance though. Going forward, remote assistance tools to connect with people at factories will become a new way of working. It will and other facilities around the globe. This increase speed and efficiency in facilities has raised efficiency across operations and reduce travel to Nestlé sites, helping and allowed experts to support multiple us reduce CO2 emissions across our projects at the same time. operations. I am extremely proud that our teams have been able to expand our use Using tools such as remote desktop, of remote assistance technology so quickly smart glasses, 360 degree cameras and to ensure we were able to continue to 3D software, specialists can advise on provide technical support. That has kept our complex tasks without needing to travel to factories running smoothly and delivered the site. new investment projects on time.” The technology has been used in There are many examples of remote support projects such as the set-up or redesign of across Nestlé’s factories and R&D facilities. factory lines, vital maintenance work and For example, R&D teams in Switzerland checking equipment with suppliers. helped to remotely renew existing and 37 AUGUST 2020
TECHNOLOGY install new production lines and technologies for a dairy ready-to-drink (RTD) factory in Navanakorn, Thailand. The factory was completed ahead of schedule. They also supported the installation of “While we were able to quickly activate a new production line for infant cereals augmented reality remote support as part in Shuangcheng, China. Additionally, of our global COVID-19 IT response, this R&D expert teams in the UK worked was not an overnight fix. It is based on our with suppliers to remotely redesign and disciplined, forward-looking approach to successfully test new confectionery molds innovation throughout our operations,” said for KitKat. Filippo Catalano, Nestlé Group CIO. Other examples include maintenance Nestlé is transforming its operations by work at factories in Columbia and further digitalizing its supply chains and Ecuador or setting up a new pet food line manufacturing. The goal is to create a in the United States. competitive edge through data, artificial intelligence, automation and predictive Thomas Hauser, Head of Nestlé analytics. Product & Technology Development, said: “To ensure business continuity, we Digitalization can also help meet accelerated the use of remote assistance environmental targets such as cutting and augmented reality technologies emissions. Nestlé has committed to achieve across our global R&D organization. net zero emissions by 2050. These innovative technologies enabled our experts to provide support to our factories worldwide for critical activities such as the new set-up of production lines, as well as new equipment start-up, helping us to ensure that new product launches were delivered on time to consumers.” Nestlé engineers are continuously Apple iPhone Assembler Joins scouting for and prototyping emerging Wave of Tech Investment in technologies. They had already India established virtual reality capabilities, and remote guidance had been used with Apple Inc. assembly partner Pegatron Corp. limited scope on several projects. is making preparations for its first plant in With restrictions on travel, quarantine India, adding to a large influx of foreign tech measures and the need to maintain investments in the country this year. distancing on-site with the spread of COVID-19, the need for this innovative In June, the Indian government set out a approach increased. AUGUST 2020 38
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TECHNOLOGY $6.6 billion plan to woo the world’s top Only about half of those are smartphones, smartphone manufacturers, offering however, leaving untapped potential that is financial incentives and ready-to-use attractive to growth-hungry global brands manufacturing clusters. like Apple, Samsung Electronics Co., Xiaomi Corp. and Oppo. For assemblers Pegatron is now setting up a local like Pegatron, exports would also be an subsidiary and joining fellow Taiwanese enticing opportunity, especially at a time electronics assemblers Foxconn of worsening trade relations between Technology Group and Wistron Corp., who Washington and Beijing making it have already been making some iPhone imperative to have a diverse geographic handsets in southern India. base. With a number of factories in China, Smartphones are a focal point for Prime Pegatron is the second-largest iPhone Minister Narendra Modi’s much-touted assembler and depends on Apple for more Make in India program. Ravi Shankar than half of its business. Like its peers, it Prasad, India’s minister for information will set up in the south of India, according technology and electronics, has said the to a person familiar with its plans who goal is for brands and manufacturers to asked not to be named. Foxconn, also transport the entire supply chain to the known as Hon Hai, and Wistron are looking country, not just the end-stage assembly. to expand their operations in the country, Quoted by local media, Prasad said India and Pegatron’s entry can be seen as a wants not only the “bridegroom” but also defensive move to protect its share of the “wedding procession.” budget iPhone manufacturing, according to Matthew Kanterman of Bloomberg Intelligence. India has seen a surge of inward India will become a global manufacturing investment in recent weeks, with Google, hub for both components and the complete Facebook Inc. and others pouring close to assembly of smartphones and other $20 billion into Jio Platforms Ltd., billionaire devices, said Pankaj Mohindroo, chairman Mukesh Ambani’s mobile internet venture. of the Indian Cellular & Electronics Google has committed to spending $10 Association. The group’s three dozen billion over the next five to seven years members include Apple, Foxconn, Google, to hasten India’s digital transition and Wistron, Oppo and others. Amazon.com Inc. has said it intends to export $10 billion of made-in-India goods AUGUST 2020 40 by 2025. When Jeff Bezos visited the country in January, he said “The 21st century is going to be the Indian century.” The country offers a vast pool of skilled labor as well as a domestic market of a billion mobile connections.
RETAIL “The focus is shifting from making for India relationships with the local retail community to exports and the $400 billion electronics and customers, supporting Egypt’s growth manufacturing that India is targeting and entry into e-commerce,” says noon by 2025 will be dominated by exports,” founder, Mohamed Alabbar. Mohindroo said via phone from New Delhi. A vast amount of Egypt’s retailers has zero RETAIL or limited online presence. By using noon as their online platform, retailers large and small noon to enter Egypt will enjoy more visibility, access to a wider customer base, an opportunity for increased noon, Middle East’s home-grown digital sales and a larger share of the e-commerce marketplace, has announced its imminent market. They will also have access to noon’s expansion into Egypt. The move will mark logistics services to reach their customers a significant step in noon’s growth journey across the country more effectively. since its successful launch in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, just over a year ago. noon will also be looking to recruit Egyptian talent to join the local team. The digital As it prepares to enter its third regional marketplace is planning to use its local market, noon promises to bring customers roots in Egypt to deliver friendly, reliable and in Egypt more choice, affordability and personalised services. convenience across a wide range of products – including electronics, fashion, beauty, baby, home and kitchen – faster delivery and free returns. Customers in Egypt can try noon’s offering via desktop or app during the on-going, initial test period. noon Egypt is based in Smart Village, Cairo’s technology and innovation led business district, and the team on ground is currently in the testing phases prior to the official launch. The e-commerce platform also has a fully operational Customer Fulfilment Centre (CFC) in Greater Cairo’s Abu Rawash area, with plans to include five additional CFCs to ensure service to all cities and governorates is quick and efficient. “E-commerce is still relatively new in Egypt, and noon has the opportunity to help shape a digital marketplace perfect for the country with this beta launch. We’re so excited to start building strong 41 AUGUST 2020
RETAIL UAE-based eyewear startup eyewa, has raised a pre-series B bridge round of $2.5m to build new capabilities to further strengthen its position in the online eyewear space across the MENA region. The funding, secured from Wamda Capital, EQ2 Ventures and Nuwa Capital, is eyewa’s third funding round, following a 2019 Series A round of $7.5m and a 2018 seed round of $1.1m. The latest funding has scaled the company’s total raised capital to $11.1m in three years. Eyewa, the largest online eyewear retailer “The founders’ response to the challenges in UAE and Saudi Arabia, witnessed its posed by the Covid-19 outbreak does business doubling during the Covid-19- not fall short of efficiency and reassures induced lockdown as many customers our confidence in eyewa as a unique switched their shopping habits away from e-commerce platform that continuously stores towards online shopping. seizes market opportunities and will only continue to grow and enhance user Co-founder and co-CEO Anass Boumediene experience across the Mena region,” said said: “Eyewa has seen exponential growth Fadi Ghandour, executive Chairman of over the last year by making eyewear more Wamda. accessible in our region. We offer a unique portfolio of trendy eyewear products at an The company specialises in online retail of affordable price and a great online shopping sunglasses, eyeglasses, prescription contact experience, solving a big pain point for our lenses and colour contact lenses. customers.” KOJ Group builds Mehdi Oudghiri, co-founder and co- resilience through digital CEO added: “These funds will allow us transformation to accelerate our disruption of MENA’s eyewear retail sector through the Middle Eastern retailer Kamal Osman implementation of innovative tech solutions, Jamjoom (KOJ) Group, with a 700-store expanding our product portfolio and offering network, is focused on building business best in class customer service.” resilience through an accelerated digital transformation journey. Last year, eyewa was selected as one of the top 100 Arab startups by the World Economic Forum for its contribution to the region’s digital transformation. AUGUST 2020 42
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