Khimji.com - KR in the News

Khimji Ramdas Computer & Communication Systems won the award for the best Information and Communication Technology solutions provider at the recently concluded Comex, The award was presented to Mr. Jayanta G. Borpujari, Divisional Manager of Khimji Ramdas Computer & Communication Systems by Dr. Salim Sultan Al-Ruzaiqi, CEO of Information Technology Authority, Government of Oman.

KRCCS distinguished itself in the exposition through their comprehensive display of high-tech solutions in collaboration with industry leading multinationals.

Visitors to the booth were briefed by KRCCS executives on various solutions for the fast growing IT industry in Oman –from server consolidation to storage/disaster recovery, from networking to enterprise-wide security, and from sales automation solution to implementation of ERP majors.

They also presented their expertise in taking up telecommunication projects - wireless networking and PABX to broadcasting infrastructure.

Under one roof, visitors were introduced to popular gadgets like latest handsets and Bluetooth accessories, range of PABX solutions, advanced networking solutions and information security packages. Such a display of diverse technology solutions under one umbrella led KRCCS to win this prestigious award.

Products from Karel - Turkey, Motorola, Netgear and Barracuda, were on display at the Comex stall for demonstration and hands-on familiarization.

Pleased at having received this prestigious award, Pankaj Khimji, Director, Khimji Ramdas said, “Along with our partners, KRCCS has the skills to take a customer from consultancy and design stage to enterprise-wide tailor made solutions. With a strong legacy of decade old service to the ICT industry in Oman and century old corporate ideology of exceeding customer expectations, we are poised for major growth in the coming years”.

MUSCAT —Khimji Ramdas Computer & Communication Systems (KRCCS) is showcasing a range of technology solutions at COMEX 2007. A number of technology specialists are featured at Stand 7. They include Karel, a leading manufacturer and supplier of telecom equipment in Turkey. Karel's core business is the design, development, production and marketing of all kinds of telephone systems, including public switches and PBX systems with telephone sets and other accessories. On display is the latest range of Motorola handsets along with an industry-leading range of Bluetooth accessories.

NETGEAR Inc, a worldwide provider of technologically advanced, branded networking products, is showcasing its latest innovative networking solutions for consumers and small to medium-sized businesses at COMEX 2007. NETGEAR will present its family of interoperable networking solutions for the digital home and small office, including advances in multimedia entertainment, Internet telephony, storage and business-class networking.

New products on display will include the highly praised Digital Entertainer HD (EVA8000) Internet set-top box for streaming digital multimedia files over home networks to HDTVs, the Storage Central Turbo (SC101T), Powerline HD Ethernet adapters (HDX101), the RangeMax Next Wireless-N product family with draft 802.11n technology, and Business Switches, Routers, Firewalls and WLAN solutions.

Barracuda Networks, Inc, the leading provider of application security appliances, is presenting its third generation of image spam defence enhancements to the Barracuda Spam Firewall. This release provides even greater protection against the evolving complexity of image spam, rendering these new forms of spam ineffective. The new e-mail security techniques dive deeper into image spam messages and automate spam fingerprint analysis to further the effectiveness of image spam filtering that protects more than 40,000 Barracuda Networks customers worldwide. KRCCS is equipped to address all the IT and telecom requirements of customers. The company's business is categorised into four units: Enterprise IT solutions, Telecom projects, Personnel Communications products, and Services.

Britannia Industries Limited announced yesterday that it has formed a Joint Venture with Khimji Ramdas Group to run two bakery product companies in the fast growing Middle East market.

Britannia and its associates have acquired 70 percent beneficial stake in Dubai-based Strategic Foods International LLC and Oman based Al Sallan Food Industries Co. SAOG.

The two companies are significant regional players in the biscuit and cookies segment in the GCC markets and export their products to over 70 countries around the world.

The companies have a combined annual turnover in excess of approximately Rs 160 crores with leading brands such as Nutro, Family Choice and Bakers Pride.

Commenting on the Joint Venture, Vinita Bali, Managing Director, Britannia Industries Ltd, said, "We are pleased to partner with Khimji Ramdas Group which is one of the largest and most respected business conglomerates in the Middle East since 1870. The joint venture will provide an opportunity to grow the international foot print by leveraging on the complimentary strengths of the two partners."

Kanak Khimji of Khimji Ramdas Group said: "We are happy to partner with Britannia, an established market leader in bakery products business in India, and together we are confident of expanding the business."

Britannia Industries Ltd is a major player in the Indian foods market with leadership position in the bakery category. Its brand portfolio includes Tiger, Good Day, Marie Gold, Treat, Milk Bikis and 50:50.

The company recorded a turnover of Rs 1818 crores in the year ended March 31, 2006 and has been growing at the rate of 25 percent in the first three quarters of 2006-07.

Khimji Ramdas Group is one of the oldest business houses in Oman with diverse business interests in distribution, manufacturing and services. Its product portfolio ranges from FMCG and lifestyle goods to furniture and home appliances.

Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Division has launched the Polaroid digital camera range in Oman. The range is well priced and comes in 6.0, 8.0 and 10.0 mega pixel resolution variants. It has a 2.5 bright colour TFT LCD for previewing, 3X optical zoom and is SD compatible for expanded memory. Polaroid cameras are available at all Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle showrooms and at major hypermarkets in Oman.

The first Braun boutique in Oman was inaugurated by Amr Makhlouf, Director, Customer Business Development for P&G Joint Ventures in the Arabian Peninsula, and Kanak Khimji, Director of Khimji Ramdas, at the Assarain complex in Madinat As Sultan Qaboos on Sunday.

Khimji Ramdas is the sole distributor of Braun products in Oman. "We are the market leader in the Gulf. We have a huge potential and would like to double our business in the next two years," said Makhlouf.

Top-quality, well-trained staff and a quick aftersales service will be the key factors for success.

The new boutique in Muscat will sell in-house products like coffeemakers, food processors, juicer as well as personal care products like electric shavers, electric oral-care products and hair-stylers and epilators.

"Here in the Gulf region, we are mainly focusing on female hair removers, hand blenders and shavers,”said Siavash Motemavelian, CBD Director –Gulf, Procter & Gamble International Operations SA.

Most of the women in the Arab world are using traditional halawa to remove body hair from the root. “It is very messy when you use halawa at home. An electrical epilator is much more convenient,”said Motemavelian.

Established in 1870, Khimji Ramdas (KR) began principally as a commodities trading house. Over the years, KR has grown into a diversified group that includes trading, distribution, retail, restaurants and manufacturing among its activities. Over the last 40- plus years of its relationship with PMI, KR has delivered on its promise to reach its target segments, backed up a vast distributor network and customer focused approach. Pankaj Khimji, Director of Khimji Ramdas, tells Ma’an how PMI and Khimji Ramdas have been focusing on healthy, sustainable growth for nearly half a century. Here are excerpts from the tête-à-tête:

Can you give us a brief summary of Khimji Ramdas business to general?
We are principally a distribution management trading organization. We do have a few manufacturing units in Dubai and in the Sultanate of Oman, but the bulk of our business is done on the strength of our distribution abilities. Over 136 years, KR has become a diversified business group with around 30 independent product and services divisions categorized in to four business groups –consumer products, lifestyle infrastructure and shipping, logistics and special projects.

Our business is the manufacturing of biscuits, packaging, paints and steel office furniture.
The Khimji Ramdas Tobacco Division (Marlboro) is a part of the Consumer Products Group. A notable point is that our business partners are world leaders in their categories. Besides PMI, we represent Procter and Gamble, Gillette, Bel group (France), Rolex, Chanel, Cartier, Nikon, Swarovski, Yum International, General Fujitsu, Siemens among many others.

How long have you worked with PMI and how did the relationship start?
I can say that I have been involved with PMI, from the KR side, for the past 18 years. Basically, it started by meeting and discussing our market share in Oman and I quite clearly remember that we are proud of the fact that we were the leading brand of tobacco brand, the American Blend, even though our total market share at that time was 15 to 20 per cent.

I recall that I was very interested and impressed by Philip Morris’approach and expertise. That is why I continued working closely with PMI.

However, KR started their relationship with PMI much earlier in the 1960s. I remember my grandfather mentioning the import of 20 cases of Marlboro at that time.

How has business progressed over the years?
I am very pleased to say that in general we have never had a bad year in the business. We have had excellent business results over the years –growth has been steady and progressive. In particular, over the last five years, while the entire industry has been on a steady decline, our market share and volumes have been on the rise. That is a very positive sign and demonstrates the determination with which PMI and KR have been focusing on sustainable growth.

Over the last few years, we have become the market leaders in terms of volume and market share.

How big is your company? How many employees work in the tobacco section?
The company has over 2000 employees. This does not include our staff in manufacturing set-ups. The Tobacco Division comprises 70 people, of which nearly 50 per cent are Omani nationals.

How do you attract and retain your team members?
Human resource management is a key area of focus at KR. Needless to say, we lay a lot of emphasis on people as our strength. From the recruitment stage we ensure that we identify and bring in the right talent. These new recruits are then given the right training to instill our work ethics. Moreover, in order to retain talent, KR has always believed in the continuous appraisal of employees and rewarding them fairly.

How do you view your partnership with PM?
Our partnership with PM can be termed as T2 –Trust and Transparency. We maintain a very close, open-book policy with PM. Both the companies have strong ethical principles in place –whether it is to do with people, customers or stakeholders. I think these factors are driving factors of any relationship, and without this our friendship would never have been as health as it is today.

What do you like the most about working with PM?
Firstly, PM is a principled organization. They have very clear dos and don’ts and as long you abide by these guidelines the mandate is very clear. At the same time, PM has a strong emphasis on the sensitivity of the business, and there is no room for unethical business practices. We at KR profess the same values in our own way and this makes us very compatible. Of course, in a lighter vein, I enjoy the various promotional events that PM organises, especially Formula 1. Personally, this is a big attraction for me.

What are the major challenges of being in the tobacco distribution business?
As with some other businesses, there are sensitivities to some of the products you sell, and there are always ethics and principles that you need to practice. In tobacco, the sensitivities are more extreme, especially in retailing. We have to be very careful when selling in certain areas and to be specific ‘non-conforming’type of retailers. The vigilance required in the business in greater –especially in order to support the minimum age laws and youth smoking prevention programmes

The advantages are that it is a low SKU business, very clean and structured, and as long as you are conforming to the standards set, you cannot go wrong.

What is your greatest success in overcoming challenges in the Omani market?
Achieving, maintaining and growing market share and volume are a constant challenge, in a country, like the Sultanate of Oman where we have long geographic distances to traverse and where the per capita disposable income, is much lower than the neighbouring countries.

How did you achieve this?
First of all, we invest by hiring the right people. Business is all about hiring and retaining people, but we are talking about hiring the right people.

The second important aspect is having the best distribution network geographically.

The third vital facet is maintaining the quality and quantity of the product in the market at all times.

We also need to keep track of technical advancements.

Who are your major customers in Oman?
Our leading customers in terms of volume are mostly located in the lower-end of the trade and in the wholesale channel.

However, the importance of the key accounts (Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarkets, Khimji Mart, Safeer Group, Al Fair), convenient stores and petrol stations (Oman Oil, Shell Select, Al Maha) have shown a noticeable growth in terms of volume of late, and they have always been the best channel for our communication and in-house advertising.

Tell us about your community involvement and why you think it is important?
I work very closely with the Association for Early Intervention for Children with special needs. I also help in organising charity fund–raising evenings for the Association of the Welfare of Handicapped Children

We have set up a renal dialysis unit with the Ministry of Health in Bausher. KR does its best to practice corporate social responsibility and help in any way it can.

Describe for us a day in the life of the Oman field force.
Behind every successful distributor lies a hard working team of fine individuals. They are the ‘bread & butter’of our division. In a changing environment like Oman, the need to adapt with change and be able to understand and meet requirements of our new Omani retailers is a continuous challenge, an area where our experienced field force continues to excel, playing the role of consultant and adviser on category management.

Our sales force focuses on distribution, sales, brand introduction, availability of the full portfolio, information gathering and the most importantly building trade relationship. They are also always on the lookout for potential customers.

To ensure efficient use of their time, a systematic adherence to the journey plan is maintained through effective use of technology among our employees. Our sales force report to their branch at 8am for loading of day stock, prepared for each salesperson separately the night before, and in them matter of 10 minutes, the sales and merchandising teams take off to the field of their assigned routes.

At the end of their journey plan, they return to the branch, all handhelds are placed on the docking station for uploading of data for further analysis and reports are printed out to reconcile stock/cash balance. The balance stock is handed over to the depot and cash sales remitted to the bank.

An interview with Pankaj K. Khimji, president of the Khimji International Group to discover the features of this interesting country where the company is present.

Mr. Pankaj, what does Khimji Ramdas LLC represent?
It is one of the largest businesses in the Sultanate of Oman. We are creating new benchmarks in order to maintain the leadership both in the “consumer”and in the industrial fields. Khimji Ramdas had been a going concern for 134 years: during this time we have achieved such a market penetration so as to be able to supply our international partners with relevant indications. Our aim is that of sustaining the past we are proud of while trying to exploit to the full potential of the new millennium. Our aim is that of achieving an organizational synergy through the efficient and effective use of our resources thus pursuing a continuous improvement.

How is the culture of espresso evolving in Oman?
A long history is behind coffee, but when espresso is taken into consideration things are much more recent. This does not mean that people don’t know it here, but people in general have never flavoured it in the Gulf countries. As everyone knows, people from this area travel very often to Europe and they know very well and appreciate the Italian style and the “bella vita”and I can say that the consumption of coffee has been growing rapidly since the beginning of year 2000.

The first Caffe Vergnano concept store in Gulf Area was opened in Oman with Khimji Ramdas. Why did you choose Vergnano?
Because we share the same principles based on tradition, on a business linked to the family: we have reached the fourth generation, the same as Caffe Vergnano. We believe in establishing partnerships with companies that take into consideration our same values.

How is your concept store different from others present in Oman?
That particular Italian atmosphere that one can perceive when walking into it, that warming service that we offer to the clients. We infact do not have self service, but we wish for those that walk into our place to enjoy a break, to be pampered. I like to define the Caffe Vergnano concept store as the “third place”, after the home and the office, where one can flavour a touch of the Italian taste. Brand awareness is very important to us and we are working in order to make clients loyal to this brand.

What is your view of Khimji Ramdas LLC and Caffe Vergnano in five years’time?
I can see a growth achieved with our mutual efforts, towards a brilliant future with the opening of new locations in Muscat and in the other cities of Oman and the establishment of a distribution network for Horeca and for the retail.

MUSCAT —Thirty-five employees of Khimji Ramdas Group recently attended an executive management development training programme in India.

The training programme was conducted at Symbiosis University in Pune, India, for a group of 10 senior employees who are about to get into executive positions and 25 other employees who were identified as good performers.

The training is part of the 136-year-old Khimji Ramdas business conglomerate’s commitment and desire to develop its human resources.

For the senior employees a specially designed executive supervisory development programme was conducted and for the junior batch, a communication personality development was conducted.

Employees from the junior management level and middle management level attended the five-weeks programme designed to train them on three separate tracks, which included health and fitness; management and administration; communication and skills.

At a media interaction organised at the KR headquarters yesterday, the employees who attended the programme, seemed to have returned slimmer in physique but loaded with ideas and new outlook.

Some of the employees related their excitement on boarding a railway train for the first time and the knowledge gained in management techniques all in the same breath.

The two-part programme had been launched on August 17. Anil Khimji, partner Khimji Ramdas Group had attended the inauguration ceremony in India.

The objective of this tailor-made programme was to provide the training and perspective required to revolutionise the way an organisation achieves its objectives.

The programme also included visits to top industrial and commercial houses like Emcure Pharmaceuticals, KPIT Cummins Infosystems Ltd, and Bajaj Auto Ltd.

Communication as an effective tool of building relationships as well as team bonding were two of the important things that were highlighted by the employees.

“Earlier, we were trying to reduce communication and limited ourselves to just phone calls or e-mails, now we realise the importance of maintaining rapport with a customer,”said Ahmed Mohammed Al Kindi, training manager, CPD Retail Division.

This was also echoed by Hussain Shaban Al Balushi, sales executive, Bait Al Ahlam.

Intessar Mohammed Al Hissani, from the commodity division said that going to India was in itself an experience for her.

She said she learned how to interact and survive among other roommates while she stayed there. “Management and communication which was part of my course was also very useful,”Intessar added.

For Mohammed Al Abdali, HR coordinator, the marvelous thing was the visit to the Bajaj Automobile factory. “I have seen the robot technology that is used to make the motorbikes for the first time in my life and it is amazing.”

The trainees also described their visits to Lonavla, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar and other interesting areas in and around Pune.

Another sales executive from the building materials division, Saleem Said Al Balushi, said that meeting people from different countries was a big experience for him.

More than that, they also got to know other colleagues from the other divisions because Khimji is such a diversified organisation.

On the occasion of the valedictory ceremony, Salim bin Naseer Al Hadrami, director-general of employment and Dr Abdul Karim bin Sultan Al Mugeiri, director-general of occupation standards and curriculum development, two of the senior most officials of the Ministry of Manpower visited Symbiosis University in Pune.

The ministry officials got a first hand observation of the advantages gained by the Omani employees through the executive management development programme conducted by Symbiosis.

Also present on the occasion was Pankaj Khimji, director of Khimji Ramdas Group; P. V. Venkatesh manager-HRD, Khimji Ramdas Group, Muscat; Dr S. B. Majumdar, president and founder director of Symbiosis Deemed University, India; and Dr Vidya Yeravdekar, joint director of Symbiosis.

MUSCAT - Kaya Skin Clinic, the leading skin care provider from India, has signed an agreement with Khimji Ramdas to bring its world-class services to Muscat.

Kaya Skin Clinic offers scientific, unisex dermatological procedures most of them using US FDA-approved technology in an environment that is serene and Zenlike with an ideal combination of aesthetic and clinical care.

After 'insightings' into the local market needs, Kaya Skin Clinic will begin its operations somewhere in mid-December and will be located in Shatti Al Qurum.

The clinic will have 10 service rooms with two dermatologists and skin practitioners.

An agreement was signed on Thursday by Pankaj K. Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas; and Samir Srivastav, business head, Middle East and North Africa, Kaya Skin Clinic, in the presence of the media and other officials of both the organisations.

Kaya Skin Clinic seeks to create a differentiation as a safe, efficacious and credible skin care service provider at multiple locations. This would be in contrast with the large number of small singular clinics currently present in this segment.

Kaya, meaning appearance, targets high-end customers in the age group of 1660 years with the objective of providing result-oriented, personalised, non-surgical skin solutions.

Kaya constantly innovates and offers new services created by the Kaya Skin Advisory for instance the Kaya Advanced Facial includes no marks the entry of the highly successful Kaya Skin Clinic into Oman.

"The response to Kaya has been very good in the UAE and we hope to draw the same kind of results in Muscat. We will be using international products brought from US and Europe," pointed out Samir.

Pankaj Khimji in his comments said that the fastest growing segment in skin care is the beauty products and not the soaps or shampoos and therefore Marico has struck the right chord by branching out into skin care.

"Right from the time you walk in till you come out, the clients will feel and experience a different atmosphere in Kaya," said Pankaj.

Kaya was an entrepreneurial leap of faith marking (Marico's entry into skin care solutions business. It was a true reflection of uncommon sense for a company in hair care products to move instead of merely logical products extension, straight into skin are services.

Kaya Skin Care Ltd, part of the $300 million Marico group, is now recognised as a pioneer in skin care and has become a benchmark for efficiency and client care.

In just over two years, Kaya now spans 42 clinics in 18 Indian cities, in addition to the four in the DAE. Over 40,000 delighted customers now pledge their trust in Kaya. Around 97 per cent of Kaya's clientele has rated the service between good and excellent.

For Oman, Kaya Skin Clinic has teamed up with Khimji Ramdas, a leading conglomerate in the Sultanate with diverse business in the country spanning consumer products, infrastructure, projects, and logistics and luxury and lifestyle and represents leading global brands.

By Adarsh Madhavan

Oman will witness close to 58,000 tourists during this winter (from this December to April next year) thanks to a unique new cruise tourism opportunity that will throw open the floodgates of tourism to the Sultanate and the Middle East, according to top shipping company officials.

Other than bringing thousands of tourists here, a unique chance to embark on totally affordable 'minimum cost and maximum fun and entertainment' Middle Eastern cruise right from Dubai / Muscat is another brand new option for many in Oman, most of whom may have never been on a cruise before, the officials said.

"Oman's tourism department is going to receive a boost in tourism traffic this winter due to the decision of Costa Crociere SpA to position two of their vessels in Middle East.

The tourists who are visiting Oman on the cruise vessels are bound to return to Oman for a longer stay. This will be an ideal opportunity to showcase the authentic Arab heritage and hospitality to the visiting tourists," revealed M. C. Jose, general manager, Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC.

While noting that their operations will bring in about 58,000 tourists during the winter, the total number of tourists that their whole cruise vessel operations (including these two cruise vessels) will bring in will be in the region of 70,000, Jose told the Times Leisure.

He noted that this is the first time that a leading cruise operator has decided to schedule itineraries intended for an international clientele with departures out of Middle East, which is easily accessible from Europe and renowned for its fine, sunny weather and mild winter.

The new Middle East based cruises will be offered throughout the 2006/2007 winter season by two ships belonging to the Italian group - the Costa Classica and AIDAcara. The seven-day itinerary includes two nights in Dubai and one-day stopovers in the ports of Muscat, Fujairah, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain.

The Costa Classica will depart on Saturdays while the AIDA will leave every Friday from Dubai. In all, the two ships will be deployed on a total of 25 cruises, 17 on the Costa Classic (from December 23, 2006 to April 14, 2007) and 8 on the AIDAcara (from December 22, 2006 to February 9, 2007).

The majority of the guests on the Costa Classica and AIDAcara will be the Europeans.

AIDAcara will mainly cater to the Germans and the Austrians while Costa Classica caters to Italian, German, Austrian, French and Spanish passengers. They will fly to Dubai from Europe and embark in the UAE port.

Most of the Middle East passengers had to travel either to Europe or Far East to join cruise vessels. This new schedule opens up a new horizon for the domestic tourist to experience a short voyage on one of the most luxurious vessels.

Costa Crociere SpA, the leading Italian cruise company, owns the AIDA Cruises while the Costa Crociere brands account for a total of 14 ships in service with six additional vessels under order.

The Costa Marina will be in Salalab on December 2, 2006 and at Muscat on December 4, 2006.

Costa Marina would return to Muscat on March 16 and to Salalah on March 18, 2007. For the whole winter of 2006/2007 season, the Costa Marina will be offering cruises from Singapore.

The programme includes five cruises of between 11 and 15 days calling at some ofthe loveliest places in India, Hong Kong, Vietnam,'Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia.

Costa Crociere SpA Chairman and CEO Pier Luigi Foschi said, "We have been involved in an important development programme aimed at making the Arabian Gulf a major travel destination for European tourists. I believe that the arrival in the Middle East of an international operator like Costa Crociere can make a significant contribution towards achieving this objective.

The importance of the cruise industry locally is confirmed by the substantial investments made in the last few years for the construction of a new cruise terminal and related port infrastructure.

Finally, I also want to stress that the spirit of cooperation, approachability and commitment of the local authorities has played it vital role in our decision. We hope that in the future Middle East will become a regular destination for our cruises."

“The Dubai cruises," commented Costa Crociere President Gianni Onorato, "are a veritable innovation, not only for us, but for the cruise industry as a whole. At present we're the only international operator that's able to provide this vacation option.

“It further extends the range of choices we’re offering our guests, alongside our winter holidays in the Caribbean, South America and the Mediterranean.

”The new cruises are intended for our company’s key European markets, in the context of our business development strategy and also in response to the requests of our most loyal guests who are looking for different itineraries. “

“Middle East has been on our radar screen for quite a while –commented Michael Thamm, President of AIDA Cruises –and we are now delighted to be able to offer the Arabian Gulf experience to our guests on AIDAcara next winter.

The newly created itineraries, including our Suez Canal cruises, are a perfect addition to our successful Caribbean and Mediterranean programme. The exciting Arabian Gulf programme will enhance AIDA’s position as the leading cruise operator in Germany.”

Costa Crociere SpA, is the leading Italian cruise company in Europe and South America. Costa Crociere SpA also includes the AIDA Cruises and Costa Crociere brands: a total of 14 ships in service and orders for six additional vessels.

How about a seven-day cruise on some of the finest cruise vessels in the World for just RO450?

This is going to be a reality soon with the advent of cruise vessels' outbound tourism too. In other words, some fantastic cruise liners will be brought directly to our doorsteps. For the first time, the dream of many here, wanting to get on a cruise liner, will be fulfilled.

Khimji Ramdas Shipping, agents for the leading cruise operator, Costa Crociere SpA (Costa Classica and AIDAcara) is offering a brand new Middle Eastern cruise service for a price that is decidedly less than many of such holiday jaunts one would normally take.

"We are providing a fantastic offer of just under RO450 per person per week cruising on one of these cruise vessels in the region," M. C. Jose, general manager, Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC told the Times Leisure yesterday.

However, Jose hastened to note that this was an 'early bird' offer and the prices would go up once the cruise service comes on line. But, for the moment, these are the rates," he said.

The seven nights' cruise, titled 'jewels of the Emirates', which will begin from Dubai, will include Dubai-Muscat-Fujairah-Abu Dhabi-Bahrain and Dubai.

There are also 16-nights and 18-nights offers from Savona and Dubai.

"Those interested may only have to go from here to Dubai to board the vessels on the seven days' cruise. The initial fare is indeed a dream bargain, because even a week's stay in a five-star hotel here would be costlier than that.

"This RO450 (or below) introductory fare for a week includes all meals and free entrances to theatres and all deck activities. Moreover, if a couple takes it, they may include children up to 16 years free!

"In other words, all that a person, who avails this offer, would be paying is only around RO61 per day.

"So, it is an unbelievable offer and for someone who has never been on a cruise before, this is a dream come true," Jose noted.

Such a facility will be a boon for many, he enthused. "For instance, this could be utilised for a school excursion; this type of cruise trips could be given away as raffle prizes; it would also serve as a promotion of a product or reward for excelling business executives. You can give it away as a present to a friend and more importantly, it would serve as an ideal family holiday / outing. “It is also great for an all women outing, or a group or families or friends.”

Jose noted that the booking for this brand new service, which is set to revolutionise the outbound cruise tourism here, is already on.

"We are currently accepting the bookings," he said. For more information, contact 92132793 / 92129192.

By Visvas Paul D. Karra

MUSCAT —Did you tread the unbeaten path to serve your community or have you charted the unknown to make a breakthrough discovery? Do you think that you or your company has pioneered a project?

If the answer is yes, then it is time you applied for the biennial 13th Rolex Awards for Enterprise. If you are successful then you will not only get global recognition and accolades but an attractive cash prize and a Rolex gift which can be preserved for generations to come.

There are 10 prizes up for grabs, five main and five associate, to be given by Rolex. The project areas broadly comprise five subjects: science and medicine; technology and innovation; exploration and discovery; the environment; and cultural heritage.

Thirty years after the launch of its international awards programme, the Rolex watch company is inviting enterprising individuals from all over the world to send in their projects for the biennial Rolex Awards for Enterprise.

The Rolex Awards supports those with an unfailing spirit of enterprise irrespective of age, nationality or background.

The innovative project should meet three criteria of the programme namely originality, feasibility, and potential impact.

According to Rajiv Ahuja, head, corporate communication, Khimji Ramdas, which is the franchisee of Rolex in Oman, this is great opportunity for Omanis to participate, be recognised and bring honour to the country.

“There may be many in the Sultanate who have pioneered a project but have not received recognition. So this invitation from Rolex is an ideal opportunity,”opines Rajiv.

If the past Rolex awards are any indication, then the spirit of enterprise can spring from anywhere. Some of the earlier winners or laureates as they are known have pioneered seemingly simple projects.

The list includes Kikuo Morimoto for reviving traditional silk fabrication in rural Cambodia (cultural heritage); William Rosenblatt for recovering surgical supplies for hospitals in developing countries (medicine); Sanoussi Diakite for creating a system for easy preparation of fonio, an African staple food; Anita Studer for saving the Atlantic Forest in northeast Brazil (environment); and Teresa Manera de Bianco for preserving prehistoric animal tracks at a unique South American site (science).

The awards will be announced at a ceremony in late 2008 and the winners will become part of a long line of outstanding men and women who have been chosen as Laureates since the first Rolex Awards prize giving ceremony was held in 1978.

Each winner will receive $100,000, a specially inscribed gold Rolex Chronometer and worldwide recognition of their work through international publicity and advertising campaigns. Five Associate Laureates will also be selected. They will each receive a cash award and a steel and gold Rolex Chronometer. All projects must improve the human condition and human knowledge,”said Rebecca Irvin, head of the Rolex Awards Secretariat in a statement. “We urge those who deeply care about the planet and are doing something about it, to apply to the Rolex Awards. Nearly 1,700 people from 117 countries applied in the 12th series, and we hope to improve on this for the new series.”

Although deadlines for submission are a year away, applicants are urged to submit their entries as early as possible, so they can be given full consideration by the Rolex Secretariat.

Deadline for applications for Middle East and Africa region is September 30, 2007.

Prospective entrants can complete the official application available on the Rolex Awards website www.rolexawards.com and follow the instructions.

Alternately, those interested can contact Rajiv Ahuja of Khimji Ramdas, on 24765628.

MUSCAT - Khimji Training Institute (KTI) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Amity, the leading private educational group in India, to bring world-class education and training to Oman. As per the MoU, KTI will offer in Oman, management training programmes in various disciplines from the institutions in Amity. Initially, short-term professional courses from the Amity Institute of Training and Development will be offered, specifically keeping in mind the current local requirements.

These programmes will be designed to meet the needs of small and medium business houses as well as big corporations, from supervisors and middle rung managers to CEOs and all individual committed to attaining their full potential.

Pankaj Khimji, director of KTI, a quality training provider in the field of IT, sales, management and government-funded programmes for Omanisation; and Aseem K. Chauhan, additional president and board member of Ritnand Balved Education Foundation (RBEF), the umbrella organisation of the Amity Educational Institutions in India, signed the MoU at Oman Sheraton Hotel on Thursday.

The MoU also envisages the introduction of certificates, advanced certificate, diploma and specialised training programmes for individuals, and corporates using the expertise of various Amity institutions such as insurance, hospitality and catering, travel and tourism, telecommunications, IT, Mass Communications etc. Amity's journey towards excellence in providing world-class education and training started with the foundation of RBEF, a non-profit organisation in the year 1986, which has since nurtured various educational institutions under the Amity umbrella.

Set up by the vision of Dr Ashok K. Chauhan, chairman of the worldwide AKC Group of Companies, it provides global level professional education to talented youngsters, in hi-tech campuses, and with cutting edge learning resources, established by bringing together some the best scientific, academic and corporate brains. Amity is the leading private educational group in India with 72 world-class institutions spread over 22 integrated campuses, imparting education to over 40,000 students in over 130 disciplines. Speaking on the occasion, Aseem Chauhan said: "After consolidating our presence as one of the largest in the private education sector in India, it was a logical move forward for us to offer our expertise to the outside world."

"Oman in the Middle East is our first stop and I am confident that we have found the right partners in KTI. We are looking at a long term partnership and it made a lot of sense to tie up with a company that is forward looking, has excellent skill sets, a deep understanding of the local requirements and an enviable reputation built over decades," Aseem said further.

Pankaj Khimji drew attention to the fact that rapid Omanisation of jobs provided tremendous opportunity for people to acquire knowledge and qualifications to increase their 'employability' potential. Upgrading of skills to enhance efficiency and productivity at the workplace was also a national imperative.

"These training programmes and qualifications when adapted to meet the needs of the local populace will go hand-in-hand with the government's Omanisation programmes, which focus on enhancement of skills in various functional areas. KTI and Amity are geared to launch some of these programmes immediately in the market," he said.

By Adarsh Madhavan

MUSCAT - If a company cannot match the salary that the competition is going to pay to an Omani employee, there is no option but to let him/her go, opines a top Omani official.

Pankaj Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas, was responding to a query from the Times of Oman on the issue of job hopping, when he made the above statement. "Whether it is an Omani or expatriate employee, if we are unable to match what the competition is giving him/her, then it is better to accept it and let the employee go. "If he or she wants to leave a job at your company and want to move to other pastures, that is his/her birthright," Pankaj added to the Times. As a company, Khimji Ramdas has no issues on this, he further stressed.

Pankaj also noted that Omanis in the hospitality industry were already getting RO150 as basic, he said, responding to a query on the need to raise the basic salary of RO120 to RO150 for Omanis.

Pankaj, who was recently awarded for his individual and collaborative efforts in promoting Omanisation with the Ministry of Manpower, was totally upbeat on the way Omanisation was steaming ahead.

Excerpts:

Are you happy with the manner in which the process of Omanisation is steaming ahead?

Very much. A lot of positive issues are happening. Of course, from the private sector, there will always be this talk challenge of Omanisation. But what do we do? What is the option that people of Oman have? We don't have an option.

We have close to 20,000 to 30,000 people looking for a job on an annual basis. And we have to give them that opportunity. It is as much our responsibility as it is the government's. The government needs to set the environment and the private sector needs to give that opportunity. Together, we need to create that sort of an environment and make it happen.

And the best thing that has happened is the Ministry of Manpower. We are able to relate with them on the issues and challenges that we face in Omanisation. Show me one country that has freer regimes in terms of employment. We have developed countries, which have stricter laws with regards to localisation, and employer to employee relations. I guess we are blessed that we don't have that.

What are the challenges ahead?

The challenges are in getting the right sort of experienced employee for the specialist areas. You can't replace a 20-year-old experienced expatriate engineer just because you need to Omanise that job. For, you can't find another 20-year-old experienced engineer or a doctor.

Look at a brick mason, if he is a specialist brick mason or a marble layer how often will you find an Omani coming with that type of experience? So, that balance will come only in time. And only time can bring in experience so we have to realise that. This is where we need to balance the equation of Omanisation. You cannot replace experience with novice. Also, if we cannot find a person locally to do that job then we cannot Omanise it. This is something that we all need to accept.

Is training still an issue?

No, not any longer. The training issue has been sorted by the Ministry of Manpower.

They are doing a lot of training at their own expense.

There is still this issue about the basic salary for Omanis. Many feel that it should be raised from RO120 to RO150.

Well, it is a reality in the hospitality industry. Those working in this segment are already getting RO150. The reason that this has been done is because the government is doing the bulk of the training at their cost. Every hotel, which hires an Omani is doing it at the expense of the government. In the sense, the government has trained the Omani for nearly three to six months in a technical institute, imparting hospitality training.

If we compare this basic to Asia, it is expensive. But, if you compare it to the developed nations, or even the United Arab Emirates, it is still low. I am not taking sides I still think we are paying well.

Job hopping - it is still a reality here.

Well that is a fact of life. Why is it an issue? At the Khimji Ramdas, we have always maintained that we will never restrict a person - Omani or expatriate - from wanting to join elsewhere. That is his/her birthright. If the competition is going to pay him/her more, then you should either do that or let the employee go. In Khimji Ramdas, the Omanisation percentage is now close to 30 per cent group wise.

Omanisation proved to be a challenge in the grocery sector. Comment.

No. Let me give the facts. I was closely involved with the Sanadisation of the groceries and the issue was simple: There were about 6,000 to 7,000 grocery shops below 50 square metres in size. And that figure has now probably shrunk to 4,000. So there is a drop in the number of operators in the interiors.

Expatriates who were running the grocery shops in the interior were taking home close to RO70 to RO150 average per month. This is not an attractive figure for an Omani to run a grocery, therefore the numbers have reduced but the per capita income per Omani or per operator has significantly grown.

Final words

The challenge for both the government and the private sector and individuals is employment. The government needs to address that. More dialogue is required and it is happening right now. I think as far as Omanisation is concerned, we are not going to have times better than this - so let us make the most of it through constant dialogue and through consistent and joint efforts. Only then can we get the right and reasonable Omanisation figures.

By Adarsh Madhavan

MUSCAT - A phenomenal business potential and room for enormous growth has opened up for Khimji Ramdas (KR) with the integration of the prestigious Gillette-Braun into its fold.

By next month, KR - through its Procter & Gamble division - will be handling the entire portfolio of Gillette brands (which include Gillette razors/blades, Oral B Oral care products, Duracell batteries) and Braun household appliances, Pankaj Khimji, director of Khimji Ramdas told the Times Business, yesterday.

The KR represents in Oman, Procter & Gamble (P&G), a uniquely diversified $40 billion consumer products company with a strong global presence, with leading brands in laundry, paper, food, cleaning, health and beauty care segments. With the integration of the products into KR, four household names (Gillette razors/blades, Braun, Oral B and Duracell) have come into the fore.

For KR, which has already been indexing fantastic growth in the region with the P&G products, it is another feather in its cap, Pankaj told the Times.

More importantly, it will also provide gainful employment to many Omanis, he noted.

"We are very pleased with what has happened. We are obviously very honoured that P&G has integrated the business in Oman. It is a challenge and it is a prestige. The brands that it has integrated into P&G are household names. These brands are leaders in their category of business and it goes without saying that it adds another feather to our cap.

"The integration will lead to larger opportunities, in terms of employments, as far as we are concerned.

"We will have to put up lot of resources in terms of supply chain. We will have to ramp up our vehicle fleet; our people capability, especially in the sales' force. We also have to ramp up our warehousing capabilities, which means more people in the warehouse, so I think the opportunities are fantastic."

Pankaj said that this integration has also given them a great opportunity to grow. "We look at it as a great opportunity to ramp up our capabilities and our prospects beyond a single-line product.

"The P&G has always been a very 'touch, feel and smell' kind of company and with products like Gillette and Braun coming in, it gives us a different dimension.

"So, we will move out of the shackles of being simply the touch, feel and smell people to being a little more than that."

As far as P&G were concerned, KR has demonstrated the highest growth rate in the Arab peninsula to date, Pankaj noted.

"The P&G has its year ending June 30. And for us, by April end, we have been well ahead of the rest of them in terms of growth. So we are indexing the largest growth in the region and this integration is a kind of a crowning glory. It has come as a pleasant gift from P&G to KR for doing a good job."

As for market penetration of the products, Pankaj said: "The product that has come in is a well-established one. It is not a new product. Gillette is a household name and it is a market leader. And with the amount of penetration that we have with P&G we obviously serve that many more outlets with P&G than probably Gillette has done so far in Oman."

He also noted that this new move would further strengthen its partnership with retailers and traders.

"What will happen now is that those retailers or small retailers where the reach of Gillette or the reach of Braun was not there will now have added products coming in.

"Similarly, those retailers who were being addressed by the existing people will have a continued business opportunity to go along with us and they will need to work with one entity."

Referring to the other immense possibilities this product integration has brought in for them, Pankaj said: "The opportunities are very good. When any large business, being handled by two to three different people, is integrated, there are always opportunities, which will also see a rationalisation of the costs. So, from the manufacturers, distributors' and retailers' point of view, it is all a 'win-win' situation."

Within the next three to six months, a suitable number of Omanis will gain employment too.

Pankaj also noted that certain products like Braun would need its own retail penetration as well.

"So there will be a dedicated Braun retail outlet. I mean, there is one already, but we are of the opinion that there is room for more than three or four."

Since KR was already with P&G, there was question of 'taking over' a product, he clarified. "All that it has done is to integrate three different distributors into one and we are the beneficiaries of that integration.

"So, we have that much scale now. Our scale of operation goes up; our costs get distributed over a larger product category and obviously, our selling cost goes down to that effect. However, certain products that are coming in will augur a lot of challenges and that is they are not absolutely consumer products, like for instance, Braun."

Meanwhile, Sridhar M, the country manager, Oman, P&G division, KR, noted that the opportunities accrued from this integration were phenomenal. "The added power of the new portfolio will further strengthen partnership with key retailers and trade partners.

"Given the penetration and the distribution reach of the P&G, we are set to make significant inroads to the lower trade and groceries," he said.

MUSCAT - In an era when sales and marketing trends are rapidly moving from hard-selling to smart-selling, where businessmen and corporate honchos are increasingly looking at adding value to their services and becoming value-creators, Khimji Training Institute has decided to expand existing sales and marketing qualifications to suit current trends.

The institute, in collaboration with NCC Education, UK, will provide marketing and sales training programmes that are adaptive, adopt consultative approaches and reflect changes in the evolving business scenario.

NCC Education represents the institute of Sales and Marketing Management (ISMM), UK and offers the following three modules - Certificate in Sales and Marketing, Advanced Certificate in Sales and Marketing and Diploma in Strategic Sales, which is split into two streams - Diploma in Sales Management or Diploma in Key Account Management.

Both diplomas make one eligible for a Masters in Sales Management in two universities in the UK - University of Wales and University of Portsmouth. Courses are delivered through tutorials and project work and students are assessed on these rather than through examinations. On completion of these courses, students will receive an ISMM certificate.

"We are looking at establishing a business relationship that we know is forward thinking and which we hope will build bigger partnerships in the Gulf region," said NCC Education Regional Director Mike Foster. "Our training programmes will be relevant to Oman and we will be working with Khimji Training Institute to deliver professional qualifications that are from the ISMM, UK. Since we are obviously looking at a long term partnership, it made a lot of sense to tie up with a company that's got a reputation and credibility in this market."

General Manager of Lifestyle Group at Khimji Ramdas, Vivek C. Pande drew attention to the fact that the rapid nationalisation of jobs offered tremendous opportunities for people to upgrade their skills and show better performance at the workplace.

"Training is one way of ensuring better performance at work. This programme, the first of its kind Oman, gives you hands-on practical learning. There was this niche available and the tie-up with NCC fits into this niche," he said.

"All the courses are delivered through trainers from KTI and are entirely flexible," said Foster. "Students can always pick from where they left off whenever it suits them. With regard to assessments, the key is the practical side, the learning outcomes, understanding the differences across business units in a company," he added.

MUSCAT - The world's finest brands have found another outlet with the inauguration of Khimji's store in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos yesterday. This is the third Khimji's store in Muscat.

The outlet, opened at Assarain Complex, houses an extensive range of premium brands across diverse categories. A unique facet of this particular outlet is the presence of the first-ever Samsonite concept store in the entire region. Perhaps the most striking feature that characterises the entire Khimji's offering is the amazingly vast collection of the world's best perfumery, with brands ranging from Chanel and Paco Rabanne to Nina Ricci, offering an awesome choice of fragrances under one roof. The splendor extends with a dazzling array of jewellery, luxury watches and accessories, with a breathtaking display in an exclusive shop-in- shop for Rolex, Chopard and Cartier.

According to Vivek Pande, general manager, Khimji Ramdas Lifestyle Group, the MQ area is a perfect fit for all that Khimji's embodies class, style and an appreciation for the finer things in life. With a novel concept store for Samsonite, a privileged Rolex arena within the outlet, and a host of premium brands on offer, this new outlet will cater to the discerning tastes of not just residents of the area, but of the entire city.

The inauguration of Khimji's in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos kicked off in style with the Summer Mega Sale that begins today. Not only is the sale the most eagerly-awaited event this year, but to top it off, every purchase of RO 20 will get you a choice of Espresso or Cappuccino at Caffe' Vergnano 1882, the, newly opened Italian style Coffee Lounge next door.

MUSCAT - The cafe trend is what the future holds, to transform a mere hot cup of coffee into a recharging break from the workplace, or a cozy place for a date. Create the difference in the overall experience is the Caffe Vergnano 1882 in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos.

"The positioning in Oman is 'The Coffee Lounge'... Drawing from the fact that Caffe' Vergnano 1882 is designed to be the coffee connoisseur's sanctuary, where one can look forward to a highly personalised experience, regardless of whether one enjoys one's coffee with quiet conversation, animated discussion or in undisturbed solitude," said Pankaj Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas, which has brought the brand to Oman.

"Just like the ambience, products and service, the overall image and branding strategy will also reflect the unique personality of Caffe' Vergnano 1882 and its discerning patrons," said Vivek Pande, general manager, Lifestyle, Khimji Ramdas.

"In fact, we expect Caffe' Vergnano 1882 in Oman to set the same high standards of customer expectation and delight that it has in Europe," he added.

Perhaps the best kept secret among discerning coffee-lovers, Caffe' Vergnano 1882 is a pioneering chain of true Italian coffee houses that offer the perfect ambience to enjoy the world's finest coffee brews. Caffe' Vergnano 1882 at Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos in Oman is very first from the chain in the Middle East, and in fact, the only one beyond the exclusive settings of Europe's most elegant cities - like Milan, Nice, Munich, London, Düsseldorf and Turin.

Indeed the perfect spot for an intimate rendezvous, business tête-à-tête, or even private musings, one can sit back and savour the relaxed - yet contemporary - European ambience complete with WiFi connectivity and designer interiors; relish the excellent choice of coffee, from the stimulating caffe' espresso, to exotic blends of coffee, rich chocolate and more; and even indulge in a delicious variety of panini, patisserie, and fresh salads.

The Caffe' Vergnano 1882 brand traces its lineage back to the renowned 124-year old coffee trading business run by the Vergnano family in Turin, Italy. It is rightly said that every cup of Caffe' Vergnano 1882 coffee, bears a unique tone and character.

MUSCAT - Japan's Fujitsu General recently honoured Sultanate's leading business house Khimji Ramdas LLC with "Fujitsu General Award for Outstanding Performance" in promoting the General brand of air-conditioners.

Mitsuhiro Oishi, president Fujitsu General, presented the award to Pankaj Khimji, director of Khimji Ramdas LLC in a glittering ceremony held recently.

Khimji Ramdas has been Fujitsu General's exclusive agent in Oman since 1972. Over the years, the brand General has grown in magnitude, both quantitatively and qualitatively.

Beginning of the year 2006 witnessed landmark sale of 222,222th General AC unit by Khimjis. With over 222,222 satisfied customers, General today boasts of the largest installation base in Oman.

Mr Pankaj Khimji, Director, Khimji Ramdas LLC receiving the Outstanding Performance Award from Mr Oishi, President, Fujitsu General Ltd., Japan in April 2006

In a tropical desert condition wherein ambient temperature often exceeds 50 degrees, any air-conditioner is put to its ultimate test of performance and only the real performers come out successful. There are thousands of customers who proudly own a General AC for over 20 years and would not want to exchange it even for a good price! Reportedly, General leads the way in terms performance out-put, reliability and the finished product design.

"While General ACs with reciprocating compressor remains the popular choice among residents owing to high ambient conditions, the overall success of General ACs in Oman can be attributed to KR's wide distribution and service network, besides product's merit and range," says Pankaj Khimji.

Vijay Kumar, general manager, adds that Khimjis has been able to reach the leadership position, thanks to some innovative schemes such as exchange offer. It was remarkable that most AC brands taken under the exchange scheme were competitive brands which the customers traded for a General AC.

To facilitate wide reach of its service support, Khimjis pioneered mobile service stations and now Khimji's 24x7 service of air-conditioners (as Khimjis Khadamat) is also available to the residents, whereby they can summon trained technicians at any time of the day by just calling 9276 77 78.

Today, General has well-entrenched itself in the minds of the residents as a name which delivers not only quality, durability and value for money, but also guarantees an "infallible machine" which is owner's pride.

Pizza Hut was adjudged a close second to Tuscany of Hotel Grand Hyatt by oman2day in the 'Best Pasta Restaurant in Muscat' category. Pizza Hut was also declared Muscat's Best Value for Money Pasta Restaurant.

Excerpts from oman2day's review on the top four Pasta restaurants in Muscat:

"Yes, you better believe it - Pizza Hut offers pasta, now even more than before. And they're so good you might even choose this pizza heavyweight over traditional Italian restaurants.

Pizza Hut has just unveiled its new line of pastas, so sit down at one of their outlets and treat it like a regular restaurant. You'll be very comfortable, for it is nothing like a fast food outlet. Instead, you'll have warm earthy colours, a cheerful atmosphere and service that can compete with any of Muscat's best restaurants.

Your best bet will be the fettucine, which is excellent. The pasta comes long and flat, rejoicing in a creamy cheese sauce with bits of olive. It is absolutely delicious, in an understated, quiet way. You will love the soft pasta, deep fried garlic and the local touch of coriander. There is onion and chicken, but the best part is the ever present touch of cheese, which really gives direction to the food.

We're convinced that the new menu is one of the best things to happen to Muscat's Italian scene."

MUSCAT - Khimji Permoglaze (Oman) LLC yesterday launched an

innovative total painting solution under the name of Khimji's 'Paint a Home Service', thus putting in place a one-stop solution aimed at improving the quality benchmark of the painting industry as a whole.

Initially, the Paint a Home Service has been launched only in Muscat Governorate. For those who order this service before 31 June will be entitled to a special discount.

Before launching these total painting solutions for villa owners, the company discovered that these people had difficulty in getting quality finish with the paint they use and finding good painters and proper technical advice has been another challenge.

Khimji Permoglaze, an ISO 9001 - 2000 certified company, has been manufacturing quality paints under the brand name, "Permoglaze" in Oman since 1985. A decorative paint used for home decor, Permoglaze commands a 10 per cent share of the decor paints market in Oman, said General Manager Ravi Iyengar.

Right now, he said, there are around 300 villas under construction in Muscat Governorate and even a 10 per cent of this would mean a big business for the company. Khimji Permoglaze is an accredited licensee of the largest paint company in the world - Akzo Nobel, UK.

With the launch of Khimji's 'Paint a Home', the first of its kind from a paint company in Oman, the company hopes to lead the decorative paint market with a force to reckon with.

Paint a Home is world-class painting service that takes care of all painting related concerns that a customer might have and aims at providing a hassle free experience.

Iyengar says, "Today's discerning paint customer is decor conscious and is looking for sound advice when it comes to painting. Our service is a one-stop solution for the customer's needs. This value for money service is set to improve the quality benchmark of the painting industry as a whole".

This service is targeted at customers who are either building a new home or want to repaint and are looking for convenience and reliability. "Customers calling in for the service are more than assured of their expectations being met". In a standard service procedure designed to delight the customer, company personnel would first help the customer select a suitable product depending on the budget and his specific needs. Decor and shade selection would be facilitated through the use of the company's Colour Vision Software, shade panels and sampling. The job would then be entrusted to the company's selected and trained painters for execution. Their expertise coupled with regular supervision by the company personnel would ensure an excellent quality finish and timely completion.

Supervising company personnel would also assure the usage of quality Permoglaze products, manufactured to the company's rigorous standards. The Permoglaze warranty completes the hassle free package for the customer. All this at the doorstep of the customer!! Iyengar said to avail the service, the customer would have to just call 24780790, SMS 99280790 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Vijayakumar, General Manager of the KR Infrastructure group said, "Khimji Ramdas is well known in the Sultanate for its innovative quality products and services. The launch of the painting service only reinforces the company's commitment to its customers." Mohanan of Salim bin Juma al Amri, a Colourline dealer at Al Hail said, "Permoglaze has seen a steady growth over the years. We were the first dealer of the company to invest in the company's Colourline, fully computerised colour tinting machine and our investment has been more than paid for.

Vidya of Bin Murad al Balushi, another Colourline dealer in Al Khoud said, "The Company sells quality products and offers us excellent service."

Khimji Ramdas Shipping appointed General Sales and Services Agent (GSSA) for Oman
Etihad Crystal Cargo to launch cargo operations to Muscat

MUSCAT - Etihad Crystal Cargo, the cargo division of Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has appointed Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC as its General Sales and Services Agent (GSSA) for its cargo operations in Oman.

Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC will provide cargo sales, customer service and support functions for Etihad Crystal Cargo. The Ground Handling will be done by Oman Aviation Services. Etihad Airways will launch daily services between Abu Dhabi and Muscat on 26 March 2006.

“The Abu Dhabi-Muscat route offers an interesting perspective for cargo being transported on Etihad’s fast growing network. There is a huge demand for perishable cargo coming out of Oman with final destination USA, Central Europe and Far East,”said Ingo Roessler, V.P. Etihad Crystal Cargo.

“The team of Khimji Ramdas Shipping offers quality services that will help us to establish fast in the Oman market and offering an interesting alternative to other carriers. Our strategy to outsource all sales and services to a local GSSA team has proven to be highly efficient in the past,”continued Roessler.

“We are excited with our new partnership with Etihad Crystal Cargo. We believe that combining our local expertise and resource with the tools Etihad Crystal Cargo provides us with, we can offer the air cargo market in Oman an interesting product”said M C Jose, General Manager Projects & Logistics Group Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC.

One of the many business units within the group is Khimji Ramdas. Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC has an active presence in Shipping & Logistics in Oman. Its Shipping Division provides comprehensive freight, container, and cargo transport, vessel operations, repair, maintenance and other allied services to leading principals in the country and abroad.

Etihad Crystal Cargo offers a comprehensive range of cargo services throughout Etihad’s network, and services its many all-cargo destinations and world-wide charters with a fleet of modern regional freighter aircraft.

According to the GCC Secretariat General Information Centre, the UAE is by far the largest trading partner with Oman for both imports and exports. The latest figures (2001) released by the GCC Information Centre show that a massive 85.5 percent of (intra-GCC) imports and 78 percent of exports come to and from the UAE.

The route Abu Dhabi –Muscat will be operated on a daily basis with an Airbus A330-200 offering a cargo capacity of 14 tons. The inaugural flight EY 707 will depart from Abu Dhabi at 9:30pm on 26 March and arriving at Muscat at 10.30pm. On the return, flight EY 708 will depart from Muscat at 11.30pm, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 12.30am, one hour later.

In OER CEO Golf 2006 the country's biggest corporate networking event to be held on March 23 is attracting the best of the big names in business. The champion of the OER CEO Golf 2006 will walk away with a Rolex watch courtesy Khimji's Watches.

A successful golfer combines style and elegance with performance and precision all of which are embodied in the Rolex making it a fitting prize for the champion golfer. The event will also reward participants with a chance to win many exclusive prizes including a Sony Bravia LCD Television and other exciting gifts from Muscat Electronics, Holiday Packages from the exotic Sun City Resorts' Palace of the Lost City, South Africa, Qatar Airways Holidays, Samsonite, Bose from OHI Electronics, Ray Ban, Radio Shack and The Chedi Muscat. Oman Economic Review will conduct the event which promises to be the highlight of the corporate event calendar in Oman.

The OER CEO Golf 2006 on March 23 is powered by Oman Mobile in association with Dodge from Zubair Automotive and Muscat Golf & Country Club. Times of Oman and Al Shabiba are the media partners for this event while Radisson SAS are the hospitality partners.

By Ali Ahmed al Riyami

In line with Pizza Hut’s enhanced dine-in experience and ambience, an all-new line of fine sauté pasta was launched yesterday at Pizza Hut, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat. Invitees at the launch of the new products appreciated the current range of six sauté pastas, namely South Western Chicken (chicken, roasted vegetables and creamy Chipolte Alfredo sauce tossed with penne pasta); Bowtie Chicken Florentine (chicken, spinach and Alfredo sauce tossed with bowtie pasta); Creamy Tomato Pasta (chicken tossed with mushrooms, creamy tomato cheese sauce and penne pasta); Spaghetti Bolognaise (traditional Italian pasta, tomato-based beef sauce tossed with spaghetti noodles and Fettuccine Alfredo (creamy cheese blended with Alfredo sauce, tossed with fettuccine).

Additionally, for lovers of seafood, there is also the Spicy Shrimp Pasta (shrimp and spicy Chipotle Alfredo sauce, tossed with linguini)

The new sauté pasta range is the latest in a long line of product developments at Pizza Hut, which last year saw the launch of the highly popular and successful Fiesta Menu.

Present at the launching were Vivek C Pande, General Manager —Lifestyle Group, Khimji Ramdas (KR), Rajiv Ahuja, Head —Corporate Communication, KR and Yogesh Shah, Senior Divisional Manager, Pizza Hut, KR. Shah noted, “The Sauté Pasta Menu marks the next step in Pizza Hut’s ongoing commitment to offering customers in Oman a broader variety and choice of cuisine.”

Pande remarked on the all-round enhanced dining experience at Pizza Hut by noting, “The new Sauté Pasta Menu is our way of ensuring that an enhanced dine-in experience awaits our guests on every visit and that Pizza Hut is now not only just pizzas, but pizzas and more.”Press personnel were invited to see the heart of Pizza Hut, its kitchen area, where the very latest in cooking technology, induction heat that is both economical and efficient, is used to prepare some of the meals.

Oman's leading supermarket chain, Khimji’s Mart is opening a new outlet at Madinat Qaboos. The formal inauguration ceremony would be held tomorrow at the new outlet located outside the Assarain complex in MQ. After the success in Sur, Nizwa and Samail, over the past two years, Khimji’s Mart now brings quality and convenience at the doorsteps of all those living in the heart of the capital. The MQ outlet is the chain’s 5th outlet in Muscat, the others being Ruwi, Darsait, Wadi Kabir & Al Khuwair. It is also the eighth outlet in the country. Ever since its inception in 1989, Khimji's Mart has been giving Omanis as well as expatriates various reasons to celebrate.

“Khimji's Mart represents a new and refreshing world of friendly service, great ambience and extra value for your money,”said a statement issued by the company. “All outlets provide fresh produce, butchery, fish, groceries, personal care, music and entertainment products all under one roof. What’s more, there’s enough parking space to make one’s entry and exit into the store so much easier. Also on the anvil is the On Call Free Home Delivery Service as part of the value added services that Khimji’s Mart believes in offering to its customers.”

The Mart has some tempting inaugural offers. Customers shopping at the Khimji's Mart, MQ are eligible to enter a raffle scheme with a 4WD Hyundai Tucson as the top prize. As a special offer for the opening day, customers bringing along an opening-day advertisement cut-out or leaflet also receive a raffle coupon absolutely free. A trolley-full of purchases (one every hour for a week between 5pm and 10pm, conditions apply) –is also up for grabs as a part of the opening celebration bonanza.

A 'free coffee and doughnut' deal is available daily for female customers during the inaugural week between 10-12noon.

Haji Shaban, the famous bodybuilder of Oman, who has won several medals at international levels - including Gold Medals at Fujairah Classsic, 2005, Oman Olympic Competition 2005, UAE Competition 2004 - will be present at the Mart tomorrow, from 7-9pm.

A major Omani business house is celebrating Muscat’s designation as the Arab Cultural Capital for the year 2006 with the production of a calendar featuring the gamut of Oman’s traditional music instruments.

Khimji Ramdas, one of the oldest companies in the Sultanate, came up with the idea of a calendar on Oman’s musical heritage as a tribute to Muscat’s new honour.

According to Rajiv Ahuja, Head of Corporate Communication, Khimji Ramdas, the idea of a calendar depicting the culture and heritage behind Omani musical instruments is much in keeping with the government’s efforts to promote and preserve the country’s vibrant heritage.

The calendar features diverse musical instruments including the Rahmani, Qasaba, Sama, oudh, Wood Percussion, Habban, Gim, Tabla, Duff Saghir, Qanoon, Kasir Qasir and the Sihal that are used in different cultural Omani musical performances.

“A voyage of cultural riches, the calendar also showcases a blend of the Sultanate’s topographical features including the sea life, flora and fauna, landscape and waves —a symbol of musical rhythms. It also illustrates the importance and function of respective instruments as well as outlines the material used in making the instruments,”he said.

In fact, the production of the calendar not only celebrates Muscat as the City of Arab culture, but also plays a role in promoting the country’s tourism potential by highlighting a combination of its fine landscapes with the rich heritage of its musical instruments. The calendar will enlighten Omanis, expatriates and tourists about the diversity of this musical wealth, remarked Rajiv.

In 2004 the company printed a similar calendar portraying the numerous artistic talents of Omanis related to various forms of handicraft including the craft of pottery, khanjars, palm frond craft, textile, and silver jewellery.

Omani instruments: The Qasaba, a cylindrical instrument known for producing a lilting sound comprises of six holes and is made of either a bamboo or wood or metal material, while the Rahmani adds a rhythmic base to the performance.

The Sama is a round, wood-framed instrument fastened with an animal hide on one side and produces an attractive rhyme with the control of the palm as it is held in the other hand. The Wood Percussion made of two blocks of palm fitting wood lends a distinct rhyme to any tune.

The Arabian lute, the Oudh - a belly-shaped instrument with strings in two courses is possibly the very symbol of Arab music itself, given its association with the history and evolution of the region.

The Habban made of skin bagpipe comprises a couple of pipes playing a fixed drone and one pipe plays the melody and the Gim made of a seashell produces only one tone by chopping off the pointed tip or drilling a hole in it.

The Tabla is a goblet-shaped drum with a tunable head secured by a large metal hoop and is popularly of aluminum covered in cloth. The instrument that can be played while sitting or standing involves very fast rolls and ruffs using the fingers of both hands.

The Qanoon is one of the most intricate instruments to master and rightfully considered as the symbol of traditional Arabian music while the Kasir Qasir is usually beaten with a stick and sometimes with both hands to accomplish a tune.

The Sihal, also known as Tasa or Sinug, consists of a pair of round cymbals made of copper to produce a sharp metallic sound while the Duff, a wooden frame instrument with a number of cymbals ranging from 5-9 pairs adds similar rhyme of the Sama.

Khimji Ramdas bagged a Silver Award for the Corporate Website category in the first ever Oman Web Awards, Oman’s premier web designing competition that witnessed a keen tussle between over a hundred websites.
Mr Charanjiv Taneja, Director, Khimji Ramdas, received the award at a glittering ceremony presided over by Mohammed bin Nasser Al Khusaibi, Secretary-General, Ministry of National Economy , at the Al Bustan Palace Hotel.

http://www.khimjiramdas.com/ is a virtual window to Khimji Ramdas, one of Oman’s leading business conglomerates with interests in a wide spectrum of activities ranging from trading, foodstuff, consumer goods, and lifestyle products to retailing, telecom and IT, construction, shipping, hospitality, building materials, industrial machinery and tools.

With its contemporary design, friendly navigation, dynamic functions and informative content, the KR website has proven to be a very effective medium for the company to reach out to all its stakeholders.

The website is a one-stop destination for current and relevant information about all KR business groups and divisions. It also provides latest information on the latest customer promotions, and includes interesting and interactive features such as virtual tours, games, and an online newsletter named Bright Sparks. Another feature on the anvil is the webwindow shopping where gifting options available at the Khimji’s megastores would be offered on the website, for the ease of making gifting decisions from the comfort of ones home or office.

A special section called the KR Korner has a melange of features on topics ranging from Nikon’s world photography contest winning photographs to “Haiku’compositions on Omani landscapes. KR is in one way or the other connected with these events or topics and would like to share through the website interesting titbits about them with its online community.

Oman Web Awards’recognition for the KR website comes at a time when the power of Internet is profoundly influencing corporate fortunes by helping companies acquire valuable business opportunities, connect with customers and generate significant revenues. A professional corporate website has now become a must-have tool for every business aspiring for success.

The KR website was designed and developed using the latest web standards and technologies by UMS Interactive, Oman’s leading interactive media solutions provider.

MUSCAT —The Oman Today Best Restaurants Awards instituted by the Sultanate’s first leisure and lifestyle magazine, were awarded late yesterday evening at the Hotel InterContinental lawns. Amongst the top in the draw were the Best Middle Eastern; Best Indian; Best International and Best Italian, which went to Automatic, Kamat, The Chedi, and Tuscany restaurants respectively. The other restaurants, which bagged the awards were as follows: Al Khiran (Best Buffet award); Starbucks (Best Café); Golden Oryx (Best Far Eastern); Pizza Hut (Best Fast Food); The Chedi (Best Ambience); and Grand Hyatt (Best Service).

The awards are based on individual voting by customers at each participating restaurant. Beginning with 10,000 votes in 2002, the year of inception, the Best Restaurant Awards have now grown to become the most important event for the hospitality industry. This year the awards saw a record 90,000 plus voters, reinforcing the image of the awards as being the barometer of popular demand. The awards are partnered by Ministry of Tourism, and the other sponsors are Oman United Agencies, Oman Air and Hotel InterContinental.

MUSCAT —Khimji Ramdas (KR) LLC in association with Hydratight UK, organised a seminar on "Joint Integrity Assurance —The Operational and Economic Benefits," at Sheraton Oman Hotel yesterday.

Pankaj Khimji, Director of KR, inaugurated the seminar, which detailed how to achieve lower costs through 'joint integrity'. It was noted that this is made possible by improving employee and asset safety, the environment and, most importantly, ensuring leak-free production.

A launching of SP 2020 (Hydratight's new standard for flange tightening) by Andre Gombault, Head of Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), also took place. Paul Holland, Director, Hydratight, gave an insightful presentation on 'Joint Integrity'.

Hydratight, having developed the technology of hydraulic bolt tensioning to solve the problem of leaking joints some 30 years ago, has continued to push the technological barriers with many new and innovative products.

From the company's successful efforts they have been able to set the standard for best practices. They have managed to develop new systems, procedures, risk assessments, training and competency needs and health and safety requirements. In this way they have succeeded in enhancing the quality of their offerings.

Hydratight has been offering its products and services in the Middle East for over 20 years and has consolidated its presence in the region with service bases to support local needs. PDO-initiated efforts to bring about change in the way bolted flanged joints are managed in their assets and the launch of SP 2020 is the outcome of this initiative.

The General Manager of Hydratight Middle East, P C A Mohan, discussed the relevance of joint integrity assurance, with regard to the Middle East region specifically, and highlighted its 'product' capabilities and services.

Vijay Kumar, KR's General Manager (Infrastructure), gave a general overview on the role played by the company's Industrial Machinery and Tools division.

The seminar attracted over 70 representatives of the country's main operators and contractors including PDO, Galfar, Al Turki, Al Hassan Engineering, STS, Parsons, Oman LNG and Oman India Fertiliser. KR is one of the Sultanate's oldest companies, having been established in 1870, and their Industrial Machinery and Tools division is Hydratight's local retailer in Oman.

MUSCAT - The Ladies Wing of the Indian Social Club has hosted a cookery demonstration programme at the club hall. The programme, held from 4pm to 6pm on October 2, made the evening delicious.

The demo, which was sponsored by the Siemens Division of Khimji Ramdas, began with a welcome address by Shobha Khimji, Ladies Wing coordinator. This was followed by a great demonstration of a five-course meal by Mrs Iqbal using Siemens appliances.

At the end of the programme, there were two surprise gifts for the ladies who attended the function. All the ladies who attended the programme got to know a few tips on cooking and were truly convinced that the event was a memorable one.

MUSCAT - Middle East Appliances, a wholly owned subsidiary of Videocon, announced its expansion plans on Wednesday at its factory in the Rusayl Industrial Area. Expansions plans include new and larger premises for its booming air conditioners requirements.

The company also unveiled its plan for a new manufacturing unit for air conditioners in the Sultanate.

The civil contract for the new factory has been awarded to Khimji Ramdas. The engineering consultant for the project is Semac Partners LLC. The construction is expected to be completed by March 2006 .The built-up area is 110,000 sqft. The company plans to manufacture 100,000 air conditioners for the next season through this plant to cater to its growing requirement in the Middle East.

Videocon started its operations through its Air conditioner manufacturing unit in Oman in 2003 and since then, has been offering its products and services through its manufacturing unit catering to its requirements for the Middle East region.

MUSCAT - ‘Moulinex’, the brand which has delighted generations of housewives, has introduced the new Super Blender.

A product with a proven track record, the Moulinex Super Blender was first marketed more than 20 years ago and won the confidence of millions of consumers.

The New Super Blender has a modern look with its round shape, which makes cleaning easier. It has a wide base to ensure perfect stability.

The Super Blender comes with greater power of 500 watts to obtain maximum efficiency and bigger jar capacity of 1.5 litres to meet the needs of the entire family.

It comes very handy while making traditional recipes like hommous and dough for Indian cuisine. The Mix Stick makes the above preparations more easy and fun. The removable blade also makes the whole cleaning process quicker and easier.

Moulinex, which was founded in 1932 has been offering products for the past 73 years, combine simplicity, sturdiness and efficiency to make the cooking experience of millions of housewives throughout the world a pleasure.

Moulinex Super Blender is available in all Khimji Ramdas outlets and all leading hypermarkets like Carrefour, Lulu Hyper Market, Sultan Center, Saffir Markets and all leading super markets and electronic shops throughout Oman.

MUSCAT - Pizza Hut has got the city craving for more with its all-new exciting menu launched at a press conference yesterday. The new menu has lots in store for its customers who look for more than just pizzas when they dine out.

Over the years, Pizza Hut has delighted customers with a variety of innovative pizzas. This time around, Pizza Hut is proud to present its brand new menu with a wide range of tantalizing starters, fresh salads, delicious baked pastas, and mouthwatering desserts. Even a yummy kid’s menu…

Commenting on the menu launch, Vivek Pande - GM Lifestyle Group, Khimji Ramdas Group said, “Our consumers love our innovative pizzas, but this time we are excited to delight them with much more…I must compliment the operations team for taking the challenge to introduce 13 new items and I am sure they will exceed our customers’expectations”.

You can begin your culinary journey at Pizza Hut with oven baked tortilla chips served with hot Spinach and Artichoke dip or our signature Spin Rolls. For those who live right and eat light, you can dig into one of Pizza Hut’s exotic entrée salads. By now, you should be raring to have a go at whatever delight is next!

Will it be a Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake with grilled chicken in Alfredo sauce or a Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake? Of course, there’s also the incredibly varied choice of the world’s favorite pizzas, including a whole new range of Bistro pizzas, or an all-time favorite specialty pizza, or one of the veggie wonders. Select one of the mouthwatering desserts from an exciting range as a grand finale to your meal.

“All these new items are created to make Pizza Hut the perfect destination to share the good times with family and friends, and enjoy a wonderful dining experience.”, said Mr. Yogesh Shah, Sr. Divisional Manager, Pizza Hut.

All products are prepared fresh in-store using high quality exotic ingredients, fresh herbs, and meet all the stringent standards that Pizza Hut is known for worldwide. What’s more, they are all very reasonably priced and have sumptuous portion sizes.

Most of these products are also available through all channels…dine-in, take away and home delivery. Now whatever your taste buds are in the mood for, Pizza Hut’s got the answer. And here you were thinking Pizza Hut only does great pizzas!

May 8, 2005

Times of Oman

MUSCAT - Cartier, the international watchmaker and jeweller, yesterday unveiled an exhibition of watches and jewellery, including the new Pasha 42 watch, at The Chedi. The exhibition is being held at the Japanese Room of The Chedi till tomorrow.

Addressing the media after the inauguration of the exhibition, Anil Khimji, director of Khimji Ramdas, and Patrick Normand, managing director of Cartier, said the collection of watches available in yellow, white and pink gold represent the creativity and craftsmanship which is the trademark of Cartier.

Patrick said that a minority of Oman's wealthy and cultured people will be delighted by the spellbinding world of exceptional and elegant collection of watches and jewellery.

The exhibition showcases the creativity of the 158-year-old Cartier, which began and still swears by jewellery, its flagship product.

The exceptional works of art, the caressing geometry and sensuality, manifested in each watch affirmed the savoir-faire of Cartier.

The horological marvels by Cartier are embellished with sparkling diamonds and confirm to the latest trends, spelling extravagancy and innovativeness.

The prices of the watches range from RO600 to RO156,000.

On display was the new 42mm Pasha de Cartier watch with its incredible sophistication which would fit easily and naturally onto the wrist reflecting a lifestyle favouring beauty and authenticity. The Pasha de Cartier comes in five models including the palladium, white and pink gold, diamond pave. Palladium is an avante garde material, an extravagant and refined member of the platinum family of metals and is extremely difficult to work with and rarely used in watchmaking.

Anil Khimji disclosed that a part of the proceeds from the sales at The Chedi exhibition will be dedicated to the Association of the Welfare of the Handicapped Children under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, minister of national heritage and culture.

May 3, 2005

Times of Oman

MUSCAT - Khimji's Watches has announced a Cartier watches exhibition at the Japanese Room of The Chedi, Muscat, from May 7 to 9, from 9am to 7pm. The visitors will be taken to a spellbinding world of Cartier Privee collection, jewellery watches and the newly launched Pasha De Cartier watches. Each watch showcased here carries the signature of Carrier's longstanding watch-making traditions - exceptional works of art, its timeless forms caressing geometry and sensuality. Cartier's jewellery collection ensembles shapely imaginations with sparkling diamonds - indeed a perfect dressing for time. Pasha De Cartier truly reaffirms the taste for finest timepiece craftsmanship of all times.

The Cartier Privee collection will treat your eyes to an exquisite collection models like Tonneau and Tortue, which are magnificent timepieces, created at the turn of twentieth century (1906 and 1912,respectively). Tonneau is created entirely in white gold and its original oblong form gives a real treat to the wearer. Tonue is a sheer Cartier classic: a shapely, stylish watch, both powerful and elegant to inaugurate the combination of two complications —a single-button chronograph and tourbillion. This innovative timepiece is developed exclusively for Cartier by one of the most renowned Swiss movement specialists.

Feast your senses with the exquisite Cartier jewellery collection - exceptional watches that flawlessly carry the grace of sparkling diamonds and the timeless mystery of Panthere de Cartier. Each creation features a contemporary feline shape, and sculpted with exquisite and sumptuous jewels, like the sphinx, while the hands continue to revolve, revealed by an artful prism, enhanced with rock crystal.

Another superb display of craftsmanship is the new Palladium Pasha de Cartier 42mm watch - truly a glowing reflection of a lifestyle that favours and appreciates beauty and authenticity in its pristine form —an ideal interpreter of avant-garde extravagance. True to its pioneering history, the 42mm Pasha de Cartier showcases a style that matches the persona of the wearer.

MUSCAT - A two-day programme, known as Business Edge TOT (Training of rainers), has been conducted at the Khimji Training Institute (KTI).

The programme was conducted for the staff of KTI, which has tied up with ernational Finance Corporation (IFC) to deliver marketing management training modules in Oman,

According lo Rajiv Ahuja, head of corporate communications of Khimji Ramdas, the private sector in Oman which is expected to significantly contribute to economic growth of the Sultanate, will benefit from these training modules.

IFC, a branch of the World Bank, promotes private sector development through financing as well as technical assistance in the form of training to enhance and strengthen development in 38 focus areas.

The focus of the training module in Oman is development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The other focus areas are access to finance; business enabling environment; privatisation/restructuring and private-public partnerships.

Some of the special features of the training modules are its region-specific and simplified bilingual content in English and Arabic touching all the areas of business management, Rami Y Camel-Toueg of 1MC, which conducted the TOT programme, said that the training modules are comprehensive, simplified and very flexible to suit the local needs.

IMC (Integrated Management Consultancy) is the working partner for the IFC in its technical assistance programme known as Private enterprise partner, Middle East and North Africa (PEP-MENA).

The Egypt-based IMC has so tar conducted TOT programmes in Egypt, Yemen, Palestine besides Oman, which is the fourth in the row.

According to Vilas Keishikar, senior divisional manager of Khimji Ramdas, under the SME development focus the training modules will touch upon five different functional areas.

The specific areas are sales and marketing, accounts and finance, HRD, personnel productivity and quality operations.

"The whole aim of these training modules is development of entrepreneurship skills among corporates, individuals and especially among Omanis in the private sector," says Rajiv.

KTI has taken up this initiative keeping in mind the national imperatives like Omanisation, disclosed Rajiv while talking about the need for this IFC training modules.

Says Vilas; "The training modules will be beneficial even at the entry level like private colleges, which have business management courses as they have add-ons in the areas of budgeting, financing and accounts."

The other notable advantage is that certificates will be given having the name and logo of the prestigious IFC, after the completion of the training. In effect the certificate will have an unbeatable global stamp on it.

The trainer manual is systematically structured with the methodology and approach laying focus on practical activity and not just theory, says Vilas.

"Over 600 trainers have already undertaken the TOT in Egypt. This is a good response," said Rami. The IFC is a not-for-profit organisation and has pumped in $100 million fund for PEP-MENA.

MUSCAT - Khimji Ramdas has chosen and sponsored 15 Omani accountants for a skill development programme/ to be conducted by NICE Training Institute.

The employees will be prepared for the Accounts Technician Certification Exam, conducted by Association of Certified Chartered Accountants, UK.

The course, called CAT, which stands for Certified Accounting Technicians/ is an internationally recognized programme. The nominated candidates are undergoing a four-month course, conducted by the NICE Training Institute on the premises of Khimji Training Institute.

The company also has an educational assistance scheme for Omani employees as an encouragement to continue education. The scheme extends financial assistance to employees who enroll themselves in part time courses and are willing to pursue it alongside their regular work.

Khimji Ramdas has more than five hundred Omani employees. Omanisation and skill upgradation of its Omani employees constitutes a long-term strategic objective of the company.

MUSCAT - Packed with a merry lot of mostly 'post-retirement' travelers from the United States and Europe, popular cruise ship 'Seven Seas Voyager', arrived at the Port Sultan Qaboos around 8am on Saturday morning.

The 12-deck beauty, which is yet another example of floating luxury (like most cruise liners are) sailed in with over 600 passengers and around 400 crew members. Tug-boats from the port accorded a traditional welcome by spraying her with jets of water.

Arriving from Dubai, Seven Seas Voyager will be proceeding to Salalah as the next Port of call and from there to Safaga (Egypt). Keeping in view the rich cultural heritage and the vibrant history of Oman, tourists on board were said to be very keen on visiting the tourist attraction here. This was made possible by Al Zahra Tours who handled the ground tours to various sites in Muscat and Batinah region.

Executive President of Port Services Corporation (SAOG) presented the captain of 'CS Seven Seas Voyager', with a memento plaque acknowledging its maiden visit to the port.

The cruise call is being coordinated by the Port Services Corporation along with the shipping agent, Khimji Ramdas Shipping Division.

Cruise Consultant, Laurie Powell, who took journalists for a tour of the facilities on board the 12 decks said, "Most of the passengers on this cruise are post-retirement persons and we are taking special care of all their needs on board, whether recreation, relaxation, entertainment or medication."

The ship has beautiful lounges, like the 'Song of the flower' lounge where live music is played by on board musicians and live bands.
The other facilities include theme restaurants, a pool-side bar, a hi-tech gymnasium, a boutique, spas, massage rooms for a variety of alternate therapies, rooms for yoga and aerobics sessions, an opera theatre, a casino, card room and many other avenues for entertainment by on board professionals.

The crew represent 36 different countries and are trained to speak to guests in several languages though the official language on board is English. Most of passengers prefer the mini-suites, which provide 306 sq. ft. space plus a balcony while there are luxurious and spacious suites for others who dig a lavish stay aboard.

Business Development Executive of V-Ships, the company which has organized this, Manolo Veladini, informed that the company has been handling as many as 750 ships of all sizes from passenger ships to tankers every year. The company has 46 offices all over the world to cater to over 22,000 people who board different vessels every year.

Meanwhile, Pankaj Khimji, who accompanied scribes aboard the vessel, said: "In the second half of 2004, the number of tourists visiting Oman went up by 25 per cent while this year, in the first quarter itself, the numbers have escalated. This has been the best year, so far. Oman has never had it so good anytime before," he said indicating that the frequent arrival of cruise liners only go to indicate that tourism is currently on a sure uptrend in Oman.

MUSCAT - International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is the private sector arm of the World Bank group, has announced its association with Khimji Training Institute (which represents the India-based NIIT training institute in the Sultanate) to offer management training for running small and medium-sized enterprises.

Saad Sabrah, Business Development Officer of IFC, said that the training comes under the technical assistance programme of Private Enterprises Partnership in the Middle East and North Africa (PEP-MENA) region. ‘Our strategy is to support local organizations to meet the required SME management training needs by providing them with business edge”, he added.

Sabrah, who made a presentation on IFC’s training module called Business Edge (BE), said that it would help countries like the Sultanate in view of the Omanisation strategy of the government. The IFC training module, which is of international standard and offered in both English and Arabic, will improve management skill of the candidates for running small and medium sized companies.

To start with, experts will train around 12 teaching faculties of the Khimji Training Institute and those received training in turn will teach aspiring management professionals. Sabrah said that there are 38 individual training programmes in different functional areas which include human resource management, finance and accounting management, marketing management and general operations. The programme for Omani candidates will depend on the special need of the local business enterprises.

The Business Edge programme is very flexible and has been devised after taking into account the local business environment and case studies in the region. After the successful completion of the business edge programme, participants wills receive a joint IFC-NIIT certificate, which is useful in taking up a career in management. NIIT has signed a master franchise agreement with IFC for organizing the programme in the GCC region and Yemen for a three-year period.

Under this programme, IFC will provide BE workbooks, BE trainer manuals and would train the trainers of the local institute. Saying that the Business Edge programme in China was successful, Sabrah noted that IFC has sold 40,000 business edge books and trained 5,000 people there.

On IFC's activities in the region, he said that of the total $17.9 billion business portfolio of the international institution, $1.9 million is for private enterprises in the Mena region
(countries from Morocco to Pakistan) by June-end 2004. IFC extend support to private sector enterprises, which are financially, economically and environmentally sound. The
institution supports a project to the extent of 25 per cent of its equity and the standard project should be in the range of $1 million to $100 million investment.

The financial assistance extended by IFC to private firms includes loans, equity, quasi-equity, structured finance and risk management. The presence of the reputed international financial institution enhances the confidence of foreign investors, local partners and governments in any project.

MUSCAT - Following the resounding success of the first supermarket in Sur, Khimji Ramdas Group has opened another Khimji's Mart at Nizwa. Yahya bin Hamood Al Ma'amary, Wali of Nizwa, inaugurated the store amidst much excitement and fanfare. The partners of Khimji Ramdas Group, Kanak G. Khimji, Anil M. Khimji and Pankaj K. Khimji attended the inaugural function.

The newly opened Khimji's Mart spanning over 20,000 sqft houses a wide range of products catering to all the daily needs of the consumers as well as lifestyle products like readymade garments, perfumes, electronics, household goods, mobile phones etc. A huge variety of Omani products are also on offer.

Khimji Ramdas, which lays strong emphasis on Omanisation, has recruited and trained more than 34 fresh Omanis at Khimji's Mart, Nizwa alone. "Our aim is to train Omanis in product knowledge and customer service," Pankaj Khimji said.

Selected new recruits underwent the comprehensive six-months training module at Khimji Training Institute (KTI) before taking up the actual on-the-job challenge.

"We believe in investing in our human potential to achieve the organizational growth objectives," said Pankaj Khimji. The move to set up the second retail venture in Nizwa, after Sur, in the interiors, is a strong reflection of the group's decision to consolidate its presence in the organized retail industry in Oman through strategic expansion in the hinterland.

Terming the opening of the new supermarket as a big success from day one, Pankaj Khimji said that the factors responsible for it were a combination of quality customer service and price.

The Khimji Ramdas Group, established in 1870, operates a diverse set of distribution businesses in Oman spanning FMCG, commodities, retail, infrastructure, shipping and logistics.

MUSCAT - Khimji Ramdas Air-Conditioning and Home Appliances Division hosted their dealer meet on February 23. Dealers in the franchises of General air-conditioners and Siemens Home Appliances were felicitated for various categories.

General air-conditioners from Khimji Ramdas, leaders in the AC market for a long time now, reached new heights in terms of market share in 2004. With the largest customer base in the country, they look forward to a significant increase in the installed base in 2005 also. The premium model of General air-conditioner uses a ‘reciprocating’-type compressor, which is the only proven and reliable technology of trouble-free performance in highly ambient temperature conditions prevalent in Oman during the summer months.

New models like the ceiling wall models and the VRF systems are the first of its kind in the entire air-conditioning world.

Siemens from Germany occupies a special slot in the market, providing premium home appliances. Siemens has had a very good first year with its modern, hi-tech gas burners, dishwashers, washing machines etc. Siemens has recently launched a stainless steel refrigerator, which has taken the markets by storm in other parts of the world and is set to capture the Oman market too.

World-class AC products and home appliances are backed by the service set-up of Khimji Ramdas in Oman. The AC division has been the pioneers of mobile service providers in Oman and believes in speed of service to every nook and corner of the country.

MUSCAT - The sixth outlet of the reputed Khimji’s Mart is scheduled to be opened at Nizwa today at 11am. Announcing the inauguration of the new outlet at a press conference held yesterday, Pankaj Khimji, CEO of Khimji Ramdas Group, said: “The interior markets of Oman have been rapidly growing in the past few years. Following the resounding success of our supermarket in Sur, we have ventured into yet another interior region –Nizwa, where the demand for a niche friendly neighbourhood store is high. The concentration of Omani population is also found to be quite high.”

“The new Khimji Mart will be a 2,000 square metre store with as big a basement and will provide Nizwa’s discerning clientele with the best brands in shopping. We have imported state-of-the-art equipment and technology, especially for our food section, to serve the most hygienic, fresh and long lasting products. Another major gratifying fact is that we have a 90 percent plus of Omanisation. We chose 19 young Omanis and trained them through a process of specifically designed module exposing them to the various intricacies of store attendance and service. These Omani candidates are all from Nizwa region and we are sure that they will perform most professionally to provide service to the customers in the region,”added Pankaj Khimji.

"The Khimji Ramdas Group is always focused on contributing well towards the economy of the country as well as to Omanisation process. KR has been in the forefront of Omanisation both in retail and the food distribution business and promotes local produce in a strong manner. The opening up of such stores in the interior not only provides convenience and comprehensive shopping experience, but also provides opportunities for young Omanis to get gainful employment and consequently help the local economy. In future we plan to reach out to the neighbouring wilayats too" Pankaj Khimji added.

Adil Ghouse, general manager, consumer products group, explained the strong features of the new Khimji Mart and said: "The layout has been strategically designed to facilitate a pleasant shopping experience for customers without crowding, with easy access to product categories and faster billing with multiple checkout counters to ensure speedy customer service. We have added a special 'Cash & Carry' section to support the wholesale trade of Nizwa. Apart from the large open air car parking there is a provision to accommodate more than 200 cars separately." Khimji Mart has four outlets spread across Muscat region and one located in Sur. The Khimji Ramdas Group established in 1870 operates a diverse set of distribution businesses in Oman spanning FMCG, commodities, retail, infrastructure, shipping and logistics.

MUSCAT - In the past, Omani women worked mostly as receptionists, school teachers and secretaries, but today's enterprising Omani women occupy varied and important jobs and contribute to all spheres of national economy; they are working as airline attendants, taxi drivers, managers, engineers, physicians, business owners, and parliamentarians. Gone are the days when women were confined to the kitchen. Empowering women, attracting and retaining their talent in the workplace is considered important in Oman. Against this backdrop, the presence of Omani women in a steel furniture manufacturing plant is both interesting and inspiring.

Godrej & Khimji (Middle East) LLC, a Sohar-based steel furniture factory using cutting-edge technology, has achieved over 35 per cent Omanisation since it began operations in 2001.

A striking feature of the factory is the presence of a predominantly female Omani workforce. Abraham George, Managing Director, says "70 per cent of the Omani workforce is made up of women, a unique fact in the GCC industrial scene. You cannot think of this factory without conjuring up images of hard-working and efficient Omani women, who playa key role in its growth and expansion".
Another notable feature is that over a short span of three years, the company developed the ability to export 75 per cent of its products to 15 countries, thereby not only contributing to the economic growth of the Sultanate but also helping in raising its profile in the global market.

Like the Khimji Ramdas Group, Godrej is a 108-year-old brand with a history of service to society in the field of steel furniture and security equipment. Khimji and Godrej have a partnership spanning three decades. The relationship was strengthened further in 2001 when the two sides jointly started the steel furniture factory in Sohar.
Constructed on a plot of 17,000 square metres, the factory provides solutions for the office and warehouse sectors by manufacturing steel furniture, such as filing cabinets, storage cabinets, cupboards, mobile compactors, locker cabinets, mobile pedestals, desks, and shelving units. All products are manufactured from prime quality cold rolled mild steel and powder painted in various colours.

The company is highly impressed with the performance of Omani staff. "They are talented, committed to their work, and make every effort to achieve increasing levels of quality and productivity," says the managing director. The KR Group believes in training young Omanis and tapping their talent for running their various manufacturing and retail units. The steel furniture plant stands out as a unique case because it employs women in manufacturing activities. Omani women at the plant have proven that they are talented, hardworking and enterprising even in manufacturing activities.

Omanisation is an integral part of the KR Group's policies and it features in all programmes as a strategic organisational goal. The Group will continue to move forward with its training programmes to induct more Oman is. "We will continue to offer bright and promising job opportunities to Omanis in all our business units", says Rajiv Ahuja, head of the corporate communications of the group.

Industrial growth in recent times has given economic clout to Omani women. Over the past decade thousands of Omani women have acquired modern skills and knowledge to find work in the country's labour market. A bold new and inspiring scenario is surfacing where girls are going to work; they are supporting their families and raising the standard of living. Indeed, Omani women are one of the major beneficiaries of economic growth.

The government has actively promoted girls' education with impressive results. Omani women have achieved gender parity with men in education. Half of the enrolled students in the country are girls. As a result, female participation in the workforce has been increasing steadily and undoubtedly Oman stands out as a model for other countries in the region.

MUSCAT - Khimji Permoglaze (Oman) LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Khimji Ramdas Group, has decided to roll out new value-added products in 2005.

The General Manager of M/s Khimji Permoglaze, Mr. Ravi Iyengar says: “We foresee a steady improvement in our market share subsequent to these new products as well as enhancement in the levels of customer satisfaction and expansion of our customer base”.
Established in 1985, the company has seen sustained positive growth in production and has been “currently running close to full plant capacity”.

Khimji Permoglaze (Oman) LLC has been successful in export markets as well. Over the years, the company has been exporting 10 to 15 per cent of its total production to GCC countries. The other major players in the paints industry of the Sultanate are Sadolin and Jotun, who together account for around 75 per cent of the paints market.

An accredited licensee of the world’s largest paint manufacturer, Akzo Nobel, Permoglaze is manufactured in Rusayl Industrial Estate and has emerged as one of the well known brands in the Oman market.

Permoglaze was among the first paint brands imported into the Sultanate by the KR Group. The company has built a strong reputation for its wide range of decorative and protective finishes. An ISO 9002 certified company since 1997 and currently ISO 9001:2000 QMS certified, the success of Khimji Permoglaze LLC has been built upon understanding the needs of its customers and other stakeholders and by operating to a clearly defined set of values.

The Permoglaze range of finishes vary from 100 % acrylic Royal Tuff available in smooth and textured finish, to Classic Elastomer, the crack bridging coating, Permotile long life anti-carbonation coatings, exterior wood finish Timbercote EXT 5 & Original Exterior Clear Finish and Classic Multicolour, to name a few.

Permoglaze Eggshell is a product well known for its unique unmatched finish. Micatex finishes are available in a range of time tested durable textures that are BBA approved. Sterilite coatings are odourless paints with anti bacterial properties ideal for use in sterile environments. Bait Al Ahlam showroom at Al Noor street, Ruwi, is the single largest showcase for the Permoglaze range.

Brand building is a key activity and has received full focus from the company. Today, the company uses shop signages, painting of the company’s delivery vehicles, site stickers, site samplings and panels and a whole host of promotional material to build the company’s brand. Further, regular painter meets and workshops and meetings with consultants, contractors and other end users in the market are carried out on a regular basis.

What has actually contributed to the polishing up of its brand image is the culture of integrity, excellence, quality and human spirit. Its almost 20 years of sustained successes are the result of this corporate culture and the policy of finding, developing and retaining local manpower. Currently 35 per cent of the workforce is Omani and plans are underway to take it to new levels of Omanisation. Another factor critical to the success of this Omani brand is the eagerness of the management to embrace, rather than avoid, emerging technology and the commitment to nurture an employee-centric culture.