Alfanar sign $1.5bn deal with Daewoo E&C during iktva 2023

Alfanar sign $1.5bn deal with Daewoo E&C during iktva 2023
Amer Al-Ajmi, executive vice president of Alfanar, and Sungmin Yang, senior vice president of Daewoo, signed the MoU.
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Updated 06 February 2023

Alfanar sign $1.5bn deal with Daewoo E&C during iktva 2023

Alfanar sign $1.5bn deal with Daewoo E&C during iktva 2023

Alfanar signed a memorandum of understanding with the Korean company Daewoo Engineering and Construction, during Saudi Aramco’s iktva 2023 Forum and Exhibition. The event was held at Dhahran Expo under the patronage of Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, governor of the Eastern Province, from Jan. 30 to Feb. 2.

The $1.5 billion agreement signed by Amer Al-Ajmi, executive vice president of Alfanar, and Sungmin Yang, senior vice president of Daewoo, is aimed toward joint cooperation in future projects for the oil, gas and petrochemicals sectors. As a leading Saudi company, Alfanar contributes heavily toward developing local content and achieving sustainability in these sectors. Through this agreement, Alfanar will work on transferring and localizing expertise in the engineering construction field, and exchanging the expertise of advanced technologies used in design, procurement and project execution for the oil, gas and petrochemicals sectors.

In the seventh edition of iktva, Alfanar, as a platinum sponsor, also showcased its manufacturing, engineering construction, and project development capabilities at the “Sustainability Pavilion.”

“Alfanar is one of the leading Saudi companies that is contributing to supporting local content through its national investments, which are raising the rate of localization in Saudi Arabia,” Al-Ajmi said.

He added: “These investments play a key role in advancing economic development by increasing the number of national products in many fields and by creating quality jobs. In addition to what Alfanar has already achieved in local manufacturing of industrial products, technology transfer and acquisition of international technologies, we are also working toward introducing new industries that did not exist previously in Saudi Arabia, besides what Alfanar currently has, to support Saudi Vision 2030 by possessing full intellectual property rights.”

For more than 40 years, Alfanar has been a global leader in the energy and infrastructure sectors in the Middle East, with operations in more than 22 countries. From its inception in 1976 in the Kingdom, the company is engaged in the construction, development, and operation of major projects across energy, water, process and infrastructure, as well as in the manufacturing of electrical products. Alfanar is also a major player in green fuels, with ambitious renewable energy projects in Saudi Arabia, the UK, Spain and India, and is one of the major manufacturers of wind turbines in Asia.


Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom
Updated 30 March 2023

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi, the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Saudi Arabia, launched the BMW XM, representing a fresh interpretation of the sports activity vehicle created out of the groundbreaking fusion of the high-performance BMW M and progressive plug-in hybrid technology.

The first BMW M original since the BMW M1, the new BMW XM is the automotive group’s latest offering in celebration of BMW M’s 50th anniversary, featuring the newly developed M Hybrid drive system, an extravagant design and progressive luxury ambience. Ideally suited for the terrain and the driving conditions in the Kingdom, the BMW XM comes with 4WD Sand mode, conceived specifically for navigating terrain on and off the road.

BACKGROUND

The first BMW M original since the BMW M1, the new BMW XM is the automotive group’s latest offering in celebration of BMW M’s 50th anniversary.

Commenting on the launch, Andre Bonthuys, managing director of BMW Group Saudi Arabia, said: “We are thrilled to launch the all-new BMW XM here in the Kingdom. This model is truly made for our customers, with the all-new M xDrive system ideal for navigating the country’s terrains. We are confident that the BMW XM will be a pillar of success in the M segment in the Kingdom, bringing new customers to experience the incredible power and performance of BMW M. Mohamed Yousuf Naghi is committed to being one of the first in the region to introduce new models, providing our valued customers with the latest that BMW has to offer.”

The M Hybrid drive system in the BMW XM delivers an overall output of 653 hp and is underpinned by a high-revving V8 engine with cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 4.4-liter engine is assisted by an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, delivering a maximum overall torque of 800 Nm.

The BMW XM sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, accompanied by an energy-charged soundtrack amplified by hexagonal dual tailpipes arranged one above the other for the first time on a BMW M model. Uniquely, the BMW IconicSounds Electric, developed in a collaboration with Hollywood music legend Hans Zimmer, creates a suitable backing track for the electric motor’s power delivery.


Cenomi Rewards offers exclusive customer experiences, benefits

Cenomi Rewards offers exclusive customer experiences, benefits
Updated 30 March 2023

Cenomi Rewards offers exclusive customer experiences, benefits

Cenomi Rewards offers exclusive customer experiences, benefits

Cenomi, the largest vertically integrated retail and lifestyle ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, has officially launched Cenomi Rewards. The exclusive loyalty program offers members the ability to earn points with every purchase made at Cenomi shopping centers and participating Cenomi retail brands, which can then be redeemed for a range of special offers, promotions and rewards across participating Cenomi brands.

Members can earn points at participating stores with every riyal spent and these can then be redeemed for discounts, exclusive offers and special treats on special days. Access to more personalized and privileged offers will also be available to members as they climb up the program’s membership tiers — Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Cenomi Rewards members can also increase their points balance through a range of engagement features, such as by referring friends, completing their profile, participating in challenges such as doubling their points by spending a given amount or following Cenomi Rewards on social media.

HIGHLIGHT

Members can earn points at participating stores with every riyal spent and these can then be redeemed for discounts, exclusive offers and special treats on special days.

Myf Bagnold, chief marketing officer, Cenomi Group, said: “Customers are at the absolute heart of everything we create at Cenomi and we believe that Cenomi Rewards will offer excellent added value to our consumers’ shopping experiences.”

Cenomi Rewards is part of the Cenomi ecosystem, which launched as part of an organizational rebrand of Fawaz Alhokair Group at the end of 2022. Bringing together Cenomi Retail with Cenomi Centers’ network of 20 shopping centers across Saudi Arabia, Cenomi delivers excellent consumer experiences in store
and online.

To sign up for Cenomi Rewards and avail its offers, customers can either download the new Cenomi Rewards app from Google Play or Apple store, sign up in store or on the CenomiRewards.com website. Membership is free.


LuLu wins CPA’s consumer experience award

LuLu wins CPA’s consumer experience award
Updated 29 March 2023

LuLu wins CPA’s consumer experience award

LuLu wins CPA’s consumer experience award

The Consumer Protection Association has awarded LuLu Saudi Arabia the “Excellence in Consumer Experience” award. Khozama Hall in Riyadh hosted the awards ceremony on March 15. Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Saudi Arabia, received the award on behalf of LuLu Saudi Hypermarkets.

“We place our customers at the center of everything we do at LuLu. We strive to provide a memorable shopping experience and to exceed their expectations. Having been bestowed with this award demonstrates our commitment to providing exceptional customer service. Thank you for this recognition by the Consumer Protection Association, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers well,” Mohammed said.

LuLu Saudi Arabia strives to provide the best shopping experience and customer satisfaction. In order to create a customer-centric environment, the group offers high-quality products and services, competitive prices, and a variety of options to choose from.

 


Centrepoint embraces holy month with ‘Ramadan In Bloom’ campaign

Centrepoint embraces holy month with ‘Ramadan In Bloom’ campaign
Updated 29 March 2023

Centrepoint embraces holy month with ‘Ramadan In Bloom’ campaign

Centrepoint embraces holy month with ‘Ramadan In Bloom’ campaign

Centrepoint has unveiled its “Ramadan In Bloom” campaign, bringing together stellar collections from its four bespoke brands. The region’s leading one-stop fashion destination entwines the essence of spring and Ramadan to create a unique and captivating edit for the holy month.
The retailer has announced the season’s latest drops from Splash, Shoemart and Babyshop with an exclusive campaign that comes to life through a series of stunning visuals. The campaign revolves around celebrating the beauty of nature while rediscovering the beauty within oneself. As the world blossoms, so can you too, this Ramadan. Set in a soft and romantic mood, a sea of flowers harmoniously envelops the collection creating a dreamy escape that celebrates the joy and delight of the season.
Flaunting an elegant and modest collection, Splash combines regional-inspired motifs and patterns with statement silhouettes to curate a sophisticated wardrobe that will have you covered from dusk to dawn. Think graceful, contemporary, and fluid looks that exude opulence and effortless style.

FASTFACT

Babyshop further completes the offering, with the girls’ line featuring dramatic bows and eye-catching florals, and the boys’ collection boasting unique geometric prints.

True to its ethos of comfort and on-trend footwear and accessories, Shoemart showcases a myriad of showstopping footwear and handbags for women. Complete your look with a collection accentuated by its bold design, dazzling embellishments, and lustrous textures. The men’s line combines traditional staples with a contemporary edge, featuring a range of sandals and slip-ons, complete with relaxed casual favorites.
Babyshop further completes the offering with a playful wardrobe for the little ones. The girls’ line sees dramatic bows and eye-catching florals, while the boys’ collection boasts unique geometric prints. This holy month, Centrepoint stores are wrapped in the dreamy cloud of bloom while they playfully celebrate the spirit of spring and the festivities of Ramadan.
The collections from its four brands showcase “a perfect blend of traditional and modern designs, catering to the fashion preferences of every member of the family,” the retailer said.
Positioning itself as the go-to family destination for Ramadan in the region, Centrepoint’s “Ramadan In Bloom” collection launches across its retail outlets, as well as online on www.centrepointstores.com.

 


Bab Rizq Jameel celebrates coffee program graduates

The program, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, contributes to improving the readiness of young people to
The program, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, contributes to improving the readiness of young people to
Updated 29 March 2023

Bab Rizq Jameel celebrates coffee program graduates

The program, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, contributes to improving the readiness of young people to

Bab Rizq Jameel, part of Community Jameel Saudi, celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of Saudi men and women in the “Training Ending with Employment in the Coffee Sector Program.” The graduation ceremony coincided with the national campaign to celebrate the inaugural Social Responsibility Day in Saudi Arabia.
The program launched during the Year of Saudi Coffee 2020, under the patronage of the Culinary Arts Commission of the Saudi Ministry of Culture. Due to the program’s great results, the second edition will be launched in partnership with the Arabian Coffee Institute, and will include 40 new participants to be trained in several cities across the Kingdom.

Dr. May Taibah, Director of Bab Rizq Jameel


The graduation ceremony was held in Jeddah at the Nafisa Shams Academy Hall, in the presence of Dr. May Taibah, member of the board of trustees at Community Jameel Saudi and director of Bab Rizq Jameel; Mohammed Abdul Ghaffar, general manager of entrepreneurship and social initiatives at Community Jameel Saudi; Abdalla Aly Taleb Abd Elrahman Abou Anza, manager for social initiatives at Community Jameel Saudi, along with the graduates and their families. Also present were representatives of the program’s partners, including the Arab Coffee Institute, Zed Café, and Overdose.

HIGHLIGHT

Due to the program’s great results, the second edition will be launched in partnership with the Arabian Coffee Institute, and will include 40 new participants to be trained in several cities across the Kingdom.

The program, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, including the Human Capability Development Program and the National Transformation Program, contributes to improving the readiness of young people to enter the labor market. The program works to support reducing the unemployment rate to 7 percent, celebrating the authenticity of Saudi coffee, and enhancing the growth and global competitiveness of the Kingdom’s coffee industry. Embodying the essence of social responsibility in the Kingdom, the program supports the transition from charitable giving to a more sustainable contribution, creating a more profound and lasting impact on society. This aligns with the Kingdom’s recognition of Social Responsibility Day, established by the Council of Ministers on Nov. 22, 2022, to be celebrated annually on March 23.

The graduation ceremony of the first cohort coincided with Saudi Arabia’s first Social Responsibility Day, demonstrating the potential of nonprofit and private sectors to benefit society.

Dr. May Taibah, Director of Bab Rizq Jameel

During the three-month training course, participants received theoretical and practical training on the various aspects of coffee preparation at the Arabian Coffee Institute, from roasting and brewing to serving and customer relations.

The training also focused on entrepreneurial principles relating to the coffee industry, with workshops on customer service, covering topics such as customer satisfaction, sales skills, and the use of technology in cafes. The program initially trained 40 participants in coffee preparation, with graduates receiving certification from the Arabian Coffee Institute and employment opportunities made available through collaborations with partners seeking qualified Saudi talents.
Taibah said: “The graduation ceremony of the first cohort of the program coincided with Saudi Arabia’s first Social Responsibility Day, demonstrating the great potential of nonprofit and private sectors to benefit society and boost economic growth. The first edition of the program was highly successful, attracting a select group of passionate young Saudis, training and placing them in coffee-focused companies. In the second cycle, we are expanding the program’s reach to a broader range of beneficiaries and stakeholders. To achieve this, we will support participants in advancing their careers in the coffee sector, preparing them for positions such as barista president, general supervisor and café business manager.”
Ghaffar said: “Community Jameel Saudi has been committed to creating suitable employment opportunities for young Saudi men and women since its establishment. This effort has been instrumental in improving the lives of community members and strengthening the national economy across various sectors. We take pride in witnessing the success of these ambitious young individuals as they contribute to the growth and development of the Saudi coffee industry, enhancing its local content.”