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201
2015
JAN - JUN
JAN
- JU
MAKING WAVES
A
A news update for customers,
customers, suppliers
suppliers&&staff
staffofofGrindrod
Grindrod
Six months summary
Alan Olivier
Chief Executive Officer
The first seven months of 2015 is behind
The IVS Sunbird was launched on 19 June
us and we have just announced our interim
2015 and the IVS Hirono on the following
results for the half year ended 30 June
day. These handysize vessels are the fifth
2015. An investor feedback presentation
and sixth ships of the 12 ships ordered
was held on 21 August 2015 with the
from shipyards in Japan.
presentation and interim results being
made available on the Grindrod website
Our locomotive footprint has expanded into
the same day.
Western and Central Africa, specifically
Cameroon and Ivory Coast, following the
16 May 2015 was a very sad day for the
contractual
Grindrod
and
logistics and port operator, Bolloré Group,
friends, as we bade farewell to Murray
with a number of mainline and shunting
Grindrod Senior (Mr WM Grindrod) who
locomotives.
family,
Grindrod
Group,
agreement
to
provide
the
passed away at the age of 79. Mr Grindrod
had served the group for 50 years, 21 years
The Grindrod spirit of yesteryear was
as chairman.
reignited at the Comrades event in June
Our deepest condolences
go to his wife Pauli, and the rest of
this
the Grindrod family. He will always be
forward as team leaders and gathered
year.
Senior
remembered as an astute business man
volunteers, made up of Grindrod employees
and his legacy of integrity and high values
and
will remain forever forged in the corridors
180 people volunteered at the Grindrod
of Grindrod.
supporters’ station working together as
family
executives
members.
stepped
Approximately
‘One Grindrod’.
We were also very sad to hear of the
passing of Bridgette Morrison, daughter
Another example of great camaraderie and
of Mr WB Grindrod, and sister to Mr WM
generosity was the hundreds of Grindrod
Grindrod who passed away on 18 May 2015.
staff members who pledged and made
She was always keenly interested in the
lunches for underprivileged schoolchildren
business and a loyal supporter. Our sincere
for Mandela Day. More than 4000 lunches
condolences to the Grindrod family.
were distributed across the country. And
there were many other projects initiated
I’d like to make special mention of safety
by various divisions on the day – well done
in the workplace. I was deeply saddened
Grindrod!
to hear of an accident leading to a fatality
in one of our facilities and wish to express
The first half of 2015 has presented
my deepest condolences to the family. We
many challenges and I have no doubt
need to be fastidious about safety and
the second half of 2015 will present its
not tolerate any non-conformity to safety
own challenges. Let’s continue to work
standards.
together as ‘One Grindrod’, delivering on
our promises to our customers.
FOCUS ON OUR PEOPLE Wa lte r Mu r ray Gr in drod
1935 - 2015
Jan - Jun 2015
02
Jul - Dec 2014
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR PEOPLE
Tri b u te to Wa l te r Murra y Grindro d: Gon e bu t n ot forgotten
Walter Murray Grindrod passed away at
of the trade and affinity with the people
Gencor, in 1986 and the listing of the
the age of 79 on 16 May 2015. After 21
aboard.
group in the same year.
years as chairman and 50 years’ service
with the group, Walter Murray Grindrod
It
retired in 2007.
from
Walter
Murray
Grindrod’s
was
a
his
ability
to
relate
knowledgeable
to
position
all
With
Walter
Murray
Grindrod’s
full
that
support and encouragement, Ivan Clark
earned him great respect, not only
and Alan Olivier travelled to Athens to
personal
within the company but also in the
negotiate successfully for the purchase
always
shipping fraternity in South Africa and
of Safmarine’s 40 percent shareholding
remain the cornerstone on which the
internationally. In 1960 he was appointed
in Unicorn in 1998. Grindrod Group now
business was founded. Walter Murray
alternate director to his father.
had full control and became the leading
reputation
of
integrity
will
shipowner in South Africa. He was
Grindrod was the grandson of John
Edward Grindrod, the founder of the
When
an
also very supportive of the purchase of
Grindrod group. His interest in shipping
urgent capital injection to replace its
Island View Shipping, a far-sighted move
started at an early age given his father’s
ageing fleet, Walter Murray Grindrod
that positioned the group extremely
involvement with African Coasters. At
persuaded his father and Cecil Renaud
favourably
a young age, he also developed a keen
to seek finance elsewhere. He led the
shipping occurred from around 2003.
interest in golf and truly mastered the
team that secured the finance from
sport in the years to come. Walter Murray
Union
Grindrod successfully read engineering
for the modernisation of the fleet and
announced that he would be stepping
at Cambridge University, captained the
subsequent takeover of Smith’s Coasters
down as chairman of Unicorn Lines
university golf team, and won the South
and Thesen’s Steamship Company and
and that Ivan Clark would take over as
African amateur title in 1960.
the formation of Unicorn Lines.
the executive chairman in January, the
African
Coasters
Corporation,
needed
paving
the
way
In
1998,
when
the
Walter
surge
Murray
in
bulk
Grindrod
following year. This significant event
Walter
Grindrod’s
Walter
Murray
Grindrod
leadership
Director,
was effectively retiring from the daily
representing
Managing
the
Unicorn pioneered the country’s fully
operations of the company that had been
Eisenhower Trophy in the USA (1960)
cellular coastal container service in
an intergral part of his life and the lives
and in Rome four years later.
1971. While still in his early 30s, he
of the two previous generations of the
was invited to serve on the Transport
Grindrod family.
South
Africa
at
Walter Murray Grindrod joined Grindrod
Advisory Committee of the Department
Gersigny in 1957 – the managing agents
of Transport and was later the President
During the years of successes and
for African Coasters. He learned the trade
of
difficult patches, the stabilising factor
from the wharfside, becoming involved
Association.
the
South
African
Shipowners’
in Unicorn had been the firm, pragmatic
voice
in the hiring of personnel, stevedoring
of
Walter
Murray
Grindrod.
and general ships husbandry. He also
A personal sense of achievement for
He retained his seat on the board of
took every opportunity to study the ships
Walter Murray Grindrod followed the
Unicorn Lines and remained chairman
at sea, which gave him a personal grasp
acquisition of the majority shareholding
of the Grindrod Limited board until his
from
retirement in 2007.
Jan - Jun 2015
03
03
that
Under
the sport on three occasions, including
as
Murray
meant
He achieved South African colours in
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Union
Corporation’s
successor,
FOCUS ON OUR PEOPLE A p p oi n t m e nt s a nd Pro mo t io ns
A n d re a s Kus z a
Andreas Kusza is proud to be a new member of the Grindrod
family, having joined Röhlig-Grindrod on 13 October 2014 as
a Projects Director. He is confident that group solutions can
be offered to the global market for project work in Africa. The
group’s unique selling point, he says, is the footprint in Africa
and the willingness to invest further, the key target areas being
the energy, oil and gas sectors, and infrastructural projects.
Andreas graduated in Bremen, Germany. This was directly
followed by secondment to Istanbul, Turkey for Kuehne &
Nagel. He returned to Bremen and joined LEP International as
a Branch Manager.
LEP’s
strategic
partners
in
Sub-Saharan
Africa
were
Renfreight/Manica (Safren) until 1999 and Andreas’ main focus
Andreas Kusza, Projects Director, Röhlig-Grindrod
was to develop key business opportunities in the region.
and he returned to South Africa at the end of 2006 to join DB
When
Renfreight/Manica
merged
with
Bidvest,
Andreas
Schenker’s regional head office in Johannesburg.
returned to Germany to take on the role of Product Manager
for BAX Global in charge of Central Europe. BAX was acquired
He most recently headed up the ocean freight and projects
by Deutsche Bahn (DB) in 2006. Andreas formed part of the
activities at DB Schenker within the Sub-Saharan African
team which integrated BAX and Schenker in Central Europe
region.
M u r ra y Pa ul Gr indro d
Congratulations to Murray Paul Grindrod on his recent appointment as Chief Executive of Grindrod Investments. Murray is responsible for managing Grindrod’s investments in
various businesses, including the marine bunker trading business Cockett (in which Grindrod holds 50% and Vitol the other
50%), chrome ore processor and trader Chromtec (a 50-50%
joint venture with Craig Bennett), industrial commodity trading business Oreport (where Grindrod holds 25% and the Sisulu family 75%), and the agricultural trading and logistics
businesses Senwes and NWK (in each of which Grindrod is a
20% shareholder). Further to his responsibilities in overseeing these investments, Murray is also responsible for pursuing
and co-ordinating opportunities within the oil and gas industry.
We wish Murray all the best in his new position.
Murray’s role in Shipping has now been taken on by a number
of individuals, with Debbie Davel assuming the lion’s share of
Murray’s previous responsibilities. We wish Debbie all the best
in her new role.
Jan - Jun 2015
04
Murray Paul Grindrod, Chief Executive, Grindrod Investments
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR PEOPLE
K ees va n We li e jo ins I nte rmo da l as Ch ief Execu tive
We
are
the
& Contracts for Sub Saharan Africa,
appointment of Kees van Welie to the
responsible for their strategy in this
role
arena as well as supplier relationships
of
delighted
Divisional
to
announce
Chief
Executive,
Grindrod Intermodal, effective 1 June
and
2015.
background will be a valuable asset
all
contract
negotiations.
His
to both Intermodal and the Grindrod
Kees has spent at least 13 years with
Group.
Maersk Line in a number of roles that
have given him insight into many aspects
He is based at the Intermodal offices
of
in Bluff Road, Durban, and reports to
the
Intermodal
business.
Most
recently Kees was Head of Procurement
Andrew Sturrock.
Kees van Welie
B ree d i n g b r i llia nce
A superior line manager, who grew up
Management Degree, which is subsi-
in an environment with little to no op-
dised by Grindrod. Julian Naidoo, who
portunity to improve, has made a signifi-
works with Reddy, described him as a
cant impact in Ocean Africa, a subsidiary
dedicated and hardworking individual
of Grindrod Logistics. Vernon Reddy’s
who embraces and displays Grindrod’s
inspirational story began at the age of
core vision.
17, with his humble beginnings seeing
him work as a packer in a local grocery
Reddy said his background had been
store. Reddy had been forced to become
challenging and emotional. Neverthe-
the head of his home as a result of his
less, Reddy was able to improve his life
father’s ailment.
and provide a better life for his entire
family. He described his journey with
Reddy was given an opportunity to be a
Grindrod to be life-affirming and up-
clerk at Grindrod without any experience
lifting. Reddy attributes his success to
in the industry but took the opportuni-
Grindrod, and will eternally be grate-
ty with an immensely positive attitude.
ful for the opportunity that was given
He was rotated amongst many positions
to him. Reddy is an inspiration to many
within Grindrod Logistics which gave
young people that come from unfortu-
him an insight into the company’s vision.
nate circumstances. After 15 years at
He was then transferred to Ocean Africa.
Grindrod, Reddy has no intention of
There, Grindrod provided Reddy with an
leaving, with his future goals set to ex-
opportunity to further his education in
pand current business operations into
container surveying (IICL5) at the Insti-
wider horizons and assist other under-
tute of International Container Lessors.
privileged employees find their niche
This qualification assisted him in his en-
within the company. Reddy’s advice to
deavours to be an effective and efficient
Grindrod employees is to work hard
manager within the Maintenance & Re-
and the doors of opportunity will open.
pair Department at Ocean Africa. Reddy
Contributor: Joshua Pillay,
completed this qualification and is cur-
Grindrod Gold 2015 Graduate
rently studying towards his Business
Jan - Jun 2015
05
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Vernon Reddy, Line Manager M&R
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS
G r i n drod I nte r mo da l fla g ship fa c il ity in Den ver open ed
Grindrod Intermodal’s
executive team, seen at
the opening, are, from
left, Leon Harold – Acting
Warehouse Executive,
Ben Marais – Executive
– Depot, Kees van Welie
– CEO, George Georgiev –
Executive – Mining Minerals
and Transport, and Stuart
Bromley – Executive –
Shared Services.
Grindrod Intermodal celebrated the completion of its biggest
• 35,000 m 2 mining mineral yards
facility to date at a grand official opening on 25 June 2015.
• 27,000 m 2 full container stacking area
• 35,000 m 2 empty container stacking and maintenance yard
The speakers included the new CEO of Grindrod Intermodal,
• 15,000 m 2 transport facilities
Kees Anton van Welie, as well as the Deputy Director-General
• 1 500 m 2 office facilities
of Industrial Policy Development at the Department of Trade
and Industry (DTI), Garth Strachan, and strategic economic
Specific consideration was given to environmental issues to
advisor to the MEC for Economic Development, Ms Phelisa
ensure electricity savings and to ensure sustainability.
Nkomo. The formalities ended with a ribbon-cutting ceremony
With fluctuating commodity prices; reducing costs in the supply
to mark the occasion.
chain and creating efficiencies is imperative to promoting
trade.
According to Van Welie, what was once a mine dump at Denver
in Johannesburg, has over the last 10 years been flattened
and converted into a 130 000m 2 industrial development. A total
of about R200 million was invested in this state-of-the-art
facility. Grindrod consolidated its existing intermodal facilities
in the area and developed owned land with the objective of
creating a transport hub connecting markets from as far as
Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, DRC and, closer to
home, Maputo, Richards Bay and Durban. Kees said that their
objective was to simplify the supply chain, to cut costs and
grow the business.
Strachan said that the government’s Industrial Policy Action
Plan (IPAP) aimed in part to set out a roadmap for the reindustrialisation of South Africa. At the heart of this plan
was the principle of a close working collaborative mutually
beneficial relationship between business and government.
Seen cutting the ribbon are, from left, Kees van Welie,
The flagship facility boasts:
Ms Phelisa Nkomo, Andrew Sturrock – CEO,
• 18,000 m undercover warehouse
Sturrock Grindrod Maritime, and Garth Strachan.
2
Jan - Jun 2015
06
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR PEOPLE
G o l d p rog ra m m e int ro duce s g ra duates to wor kin g en viron men t
The GOLD programme was formed with the intention to provide
2015 Gold programme graduates
graduates with work experience so as to put the theory acquired
Management, ensure that the graduates receive the appropriate
during formal learning into practice, and to help them prepare
exposure to achieve their development objectives.
for the business world.
The structure of the one-year programme includes:
To respond to the challenge of high levels of unemployment
• Participation in a management learnership course
in South Africa, Grindrod recruits graduates annually from
• Three-month work-based projects within Grindrod businesses
institutions of higher learning to be a part of the Graduate
around the country
Development Programme – Graduate Opportunity Leadership
• On-going evaluations throughout the year in the form of
Development (GOLD). As an organisation we aspire to attract,
mentor feedback sessions and presentations
select and develop these graduates to build a talent pool for
• Management assessments and feedback
the organisation.
This will all culminate in a final thesis delivered by each
Graduates intake
graduate providing a solution to a business challenge. Where
22 graduates were shortlisted for the 2015 intake and 13 were
possible, graduates will be absorbed into the business (about
selected and placed in the GOLD programme for the period 9
50% in previous years) and offered permanent positions. There
February 2015 to 31 January 2016.
were 18 graduates on the course in 2013, 14 in 2014, and 13
in 2015. The numbers absorbed into the business were 72% in
Graduates are exposed to various divisions of the business
2013, and 57% in 2014.
by following a structured practical programme and acquire
practical skills which are relevant to both the business and the
In addressing employment equity, the focus has also been
graduates’ fields of interest and learning.
on a high portion / percentage of graduates from previously
disadvantaged groups.
Mentors, nominated (or volunteered) from Executives / Senior
Jan - Jun 2015
07
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Contributor: Ethney Mcoyi
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS
G ri n drod GO LD g ra dua te s in Ama zin g Race ch al len ge
‘Adventure’ is one of many words that aptly describes a
the team to progress to the next round. That was when we found
remarkable year thus far for the GOLD graduates.
that teamwork and understanding of each other’s strengths
became vital – as would be the case in the workplace.
It has not been ‘all work with no play’, however, as achieving
holistic growth is what the programme aims to deliver. This
What became the highlight of the day was the health assess-
was evident at the ‘Amazing Race 2015’ challenge which we
ment that we did with specialists. This reminded us of the
participated in on 10 July at the Muscle and Fitness Centre in
importance of taking care of one’s health whilst working, and
Glenwood.
completing the projects we are tasked with in the programme.
As young graduates entering the working environment, it is
The activities tested our mental endurance and physical
now that we have to learn habits that help us attain that elusive
capacity to the maximum. Some of the challenges saw us
balance.
having to rely on each other as teams, as we followed trails
that led us from some of the trendiest cafés and organic food
The Amazing Race will ultimately result in an additional NQF5
restaurants right up to yoga fitness centres.
National Certificate for successful graduates.
Contributor: Ibanathi Ngcobo
And then certain activities needed to be completed in order for
Trai ni ng a ca d e my move s a nd g e t s n ew n ame
Unicorn Shipping Training Academy relocated to
48 Hannah Road, Congella, and changed its name
to Grindrod Shipping Training Academy in July.
Amongst the reasons for this move are the need
for larger premises to cater for increased client
demand, and the development of new courses, i.e.
GMDSS and BOSIET/HUET.
The Basic Offshore Safety Induction & Emergency
Training (BOSIET) is a requirement for all maritime
oil and gas industry personnel who are employed
offshore.
The
5-day
course
incorporates
the
Helicopter
Underwater Escape Training (HUET) module using
a crash simulator in the new in-house pool. The
Global Maritime Distress & Safety Systems (GMDSS)
course is required by all navigational officers. The
classroom contains eight work stations as well
as a live station which is registered with ICASA.
Refresher GMDSS courses are also offered.
The new academy is equipped with state-of-theart facilities, such as Wi-Fi for staff and learners,
biometric security, and lighting activated by motion
sensors.
Contributor: Verna Watson
Jan - Jun 2015
08
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS IVS S u nb i rd la unc he d in Ja pa n
IVS Sunbird was launched on 19 June 2015 at the Shin
Abby Waller (Godmother), Andrew Waller (CFO Grindrod), Andrea
Kochi facility in Japan. The 33 000 dwt Handysize log-
Wade and Martyn Wade (CEO Grindrod Shipping) are accompanied by
fitted bulk carrier was purchased through the Marubeni
Irisa san, President of Shin Kochijyuko Co Ltd and Takechi san, Senior
Corporation of Japan and built by the Shin Kurushima
Operating Officer of Marubeni Corporation, and other dignitaries from
Dockyard. She will be delivered on 16 September 2015.
the shipyard, Marubeni Corporation, NKK and Grindrod Shipping.
G ri n drod R a i l fe a t ure s o n TV pro g ramme for you th
Grindrod Rail Construction (GRC) was recently approached by
The film session began with an interview with Commercial
‘I Love That Productions’, who produce content for SABC 1, to
Manager, Kabelo Mabina, who is a quantity surveyor by profes-
feature in a programme called Teenagers on a Mission (TOMZ).
sion. Kabelo gave insight into what the core function of Grindrod
Rail’s business is and how railway lines are engineered. Next,
TOMZ is a science and technology programme funded by the
Millwright Technician Johan van Jaarsveld comprehensively
Department of Science and Technology which provides young
explained the weld of two rail ends together using a mobile
people with an opportunity to learn more about the world of
thermit welding plant and later demonstrated one live.
science and technology.
Since GRC is a specialist in track
construction, this insert will be incorporated in an episode
Upon completion of the weld, Mandla Mchunu, a Welder,
about trains.
displayed to the camera how rails are separated for track
maintenance purposes. The insert concluded by revealing
On 19 February 2015, the production team arrived at the
applicable subject choices and career progressions in our
Brakpan plant where JJ Vermeulen, Head of Plant Division,
industry, presented by Kabelo to school-going viewers. TOMZ’s
welcomed them. Issa Subrati assisted with a safety induction
episode on Trains aired on 17 March 2015.
before the film crew headed to the site.
Jan - Jun 2015
09
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Contributor: Refiloe Rakwena
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS
G ri n drod a g old spo nso r a t Africa Rail Con feren ce
Terrapinn Africa held its 18th annual transport exhibition
“All
five
of
our
businesses
were
marketed
by
various
featuring Africa Rail, Africa Ports and Harbours Show, The
presentations and video clips that were continuously playing
Transport Security and Safety Show Africa, The Cargo Show
on two large TV screens,” commented Nnoni Mokgethi, PA to
Africa and Aviation Festival Africa.
James Holley and Andrew Thomas.
The event provides a platform for the continent’s railway
industry stakeholders to learn, mingle and do business.
Grindrod Rail was a gold sponsor at the conference.
Exhibitors spared no expense to ensure that their exhibition
stands looked better than those of previous years and those of
industry peers. Grindrod Rail responded to the call at the 2015
Africa Rail Conference by incorporating the rail theme into the
structure of the stand. The white couches and white overhead
rail tracks complimented the Grindrod Rail DNA – Innovative,
Cost Effective, Reliable, Safe; that was printed on the rear wall
of the stand.
G ri n drod L ocomo t ive s inc re a se s footpr in t in Afr ica
Grindrod Locomotives has signed a contract worth more than
An additional five mainline locomotives will be hired and
$30 million with Bolloré Group, a logistics and port operator.
supplied to Camrail in the third quarter of 2015. The locomotives
This venture will see a number of mainline and shunting
will be used for mainline freight and passenger transportation.
locomotives being supplied to two operations where Bolloré
The shunting locomotives are 74% locally manufactured in
operates concession agreements, specifically in Cameroon and
South Africa, and will be transported by ship to Cameroon and
Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast.
Robert Spoon, CEO Grindrod Locomotives, notes that the supply
The Camrail project marks the beginning of Grindrod’s footprint
agreement follows a project for the leasing of an initial four
in Central Africa. Spoon concludes that, while the company has
locomotives to Camrail also supplied by Grindrod and leased
delivered hundreds of new mainline locomotives across the
through GPR Leasing Africa (a joint venture finance company
continent, the partnership with Bolloré has provided Grindrod
between Grindrod Freight and Pembani Remgro Infrastructure
with access to markets in Central Africa.
Fund).
Jan - Jun 2015
10
Contributor: Keneilwe Masilo
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS
Va n g ua rd ca tch e s t he t ide wit h patrol vessel l au n ch
Time and tide wait for no man, it is said, so specialist heavy
remotely-operated trailer without a hitch to the destination,”
lift and abnormal load transport solutions company Vanguard
he adds.
ensured precision timing for the jacking and lifting of a 310
tonne patrol vessel from the Damen shipyard to the synchrolift
After loading the vessel at the shipyard on the Wednesday, it
at the Victoria and Albert Waterfront in Cape Town.
was moved to a holding area that night to accommodate traffic
and cause as little disruption as possible. Transportation began
“Missing the optimal launch time of 04.30 am on a Friday
mid-morning on Thursday, and by the afternoon was installed
morning could have meant a 28-day delay before the next
on the bogeys at the synchrolift, ready for the tide in the early
opportunity, so there was no leeway for any hold-ups or errors,”
hours on Friday morning. The synchrolift, situated at the
said Project Engineer Roland Cumings, who worked with the
Albert Basin, lowered the vessel into the water on a platform
team from Vanguard’s Cape Town branch on the contract.
with nine pairs of synchronous, steel wire rope winches along
the support jetties.
At over 50 metres long, the vessel was jacked from its cradle
at the shipyard and transported by Vanguard’s 22-axle self-
“The five days that our Cape Town branch spent to engineer
propelled modular trailer configuration over a distance of
the solution required by Damen ensured that all specialised
about five kilometres to the port. These self-propelled modular
equipment was mobilised on time and every detail of the
trailer configurations with a capacity to carry over 1,000 tonnes,
operation was planned,” he said. “It allowed us to confidently
are well suited for load-in and load-out barging operations and
meet the strict two-day deadline for this important contract.”
are steered remotely by an experienced operator.
Vanguard’s expertise and familiarity with the environment
“As the waterfront area has grown and developed, it has
also contributed to the success of the operation; the company
become busier and more built up, creating certain challenges
has previously moved vessels in the Cape Town port with the
for the movement of abnormal loads,” said Cumings. “Having
heaviest weighing over 600 tonnes.
planned meticulously for this project, we were able to guide the
Contributor: Stacey Davies
Vanguard transported this 310-tonne vessel from a shipyard to the Waterfront on a 22-axle self propelled modular trailer.
Jan - Jun 2015
11
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS
S A -b u i lt ca ta ma ra ns sa il fo r Fra nce
IVS Durban loaded 13 South African produced catamarans on the deck of MV Erhan from Saldanha Bay to Nice, France,
on 3 March. The shippers said this was the biggest single consignment sent so far from South Africa.
G o l f D a y com i ng up
Cockett sets u p in In dia
Following a successful Marine Bursary Golf
After Cockett Marine Oil Group
Day 2014 sponsored by Grindrod, this year’s
established
event on 19 November in Cape Town is sure to
Nikharv Shah joined the Group
be just as successful and more importantly a
as Head of Marketing & Supply –
fun event to support.
India Region, based in Mumbai,
offices
in
Contributor: Axel Krumhoff
India,
India. He is responsible for the
The event is in support of the two bursary funds
Group’s activities on the Indian
administered by the South African Training
sub-continent.
Ship General Botha and the Society of Master
Mariners South Africa. The principal objective
Cem Saral, Director – EMEA for
of these two bursary funds is to train and men-
the Group, says, “Nikharv joins
tor future South African seafarers and those
us with years of experience and
in associated industries. All profits generated
a thorough understanding of
from this event will be split equally between
India’s marine fuel oil market,
these two funds.
as well as a global perspective
to add value to the Group’s
The entire maritime industry is encouraged to
growth plans.”
support this event and related bursary funds;
both funds are registered with SARS as PBOs.
Contributor: Captain Tony Nicholas
Karl Beeson, CEO of the Group,
adds,
“The
new
office
will
provide opportunities for the
Group to increase its coverage
in the country.”
Nikharv Shah, Head of Marketing
& Supply – India Region.
Jan - Jun 2015
12
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR COMMUNITIES
S i x da y s of M a nde la D a y a c t io n
The aim of Mandela Day is to serve as a global ‘call to action’
contribute to making our world a better place. On the following
for people to make a difference in the lives of those less
five pages, we share some of the activities of our staff who had
fortunate. We all have individual power to make an imprint and
been inspired to help make positive changes.
R ö hli g - Gr i n d ro d sta ff knit te d bunnies for or ph an s
As part of the Nelson Mandela 67 minutes campaign which
took place on 18 July, Röhlig-Grindrod employees rallied together to knit bunnies for orphan, sick, vulnerable and abused
children in various organisations. Staff in the finance department were highly motivated and for weeks spent every lunch
break knitting and assembling bunnies.
Some employees acquired new skills after they were taught to
knit by their colleagues. The bunny-building team managed to
create 150 bunnies in total. Well done to the team!
Contributor: Lidia Hunter
S o cce r p osts i nsta lle d
Members of the Marketing, Capital Projects, Finance, Terminals and Procurement teams collaborated to spend a morning
serving Ndukwendhle High School in Umlazi on 24 July.
Some members of the Grindrod team, along with school teachers and learners, spent a busy morning marking out soccer
field dimensions and installing soccer goal posts. Shaun Dixon
from Grindrod Terminals designed soccer posts for the school.
In another area of the school, also working hand-in-hand with
teachers and pupils, other members of the Grindrod team prepared 1000 hotdogs as lunch for the learners and teachers.
Grindrod also donated percussion and rhythm musical instruments to the school choir and dance teams, as well as soccer
kits and training aids for the soccer team.
Contributor: Candice Woods
T ha n k you, Gr indro d e mploye e s
A big ‘Thank You’ to Grindrod employees for contributing over 4093 lunches – subsequently donated to underprivileged schools
– and to the volunteers who took time out of their busy schedules to visit selected schools and organisations, to assist with
distributing the lunches in honour of Mandela Day. Let us continue to support Madiba’s work and legacy by making a difference
each and every day of our lives.
Jan - Jun 2015
13
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS
Mandela Day 2015
DURBAN
Over 2 5 0 0 lu nches
I n hlakan ip ho &
Ad d in g to n P rimary School
14
Mandela Day 2015
J O H A N N ESBURG
1 2 5 0 lu n ches & 1 5 0 d ic tio n aries
Eketsan g Seco n d ary Sc ho o l
15
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS Mandela Day 2015
R I C H A R D S B AY
1 4 5 lu n c h e s, Nhlan zen i P rimary Scho o l
16
Mandela Day 2015
R O SSLY N
6 0 lu n ches
Ko p an e Daycare Centre
17
Mandela Day
2015
CA PE
TOWN
1 3 8 lu n c hes
Al-No o r
Orp han ag e
18
FOCUS ON OUR COMMUNITIES
S p o t li g h t on p ira c y a s exe c ut ive kitesu r fs to Somal i border
Jacob
Sørensen
in Pemba,
Mozambique,
at the launch
of his 1,000
km kitesurf
challenge.
To m a ke a d on a t io n, ple a se visit www.mission safeocean s.com
On 2 August, Pacific Basin shipping executive Jacob Bliksted
Safe Ocean, “Through my work in the shipping industry, I see
Sørensen began his 1,000 km kitesurf challenge from Pemba
the threats to the safety of the ocean along the East African
in Mozambique north via Tanzania and Kenya to the Somalia
coast and the costs that are borne by all seafarers, local
border; it is in aid of Mission to Seafarers and Adeso (African
and international.
Development Solutions).
Jacob is a General Manager at the
address the root causes of piracy and help to make the oceans
Hong Kong-based ship owner and the founder of Mission: Safe
safer for all seafarers. My goal with ‘Mission: Safe Ocean’ and
Ocean, a campaign to raise awareness of the root causes of
this expedition is to shine a light on these root causes and to
piracy and to support long-term efforts to improve the safety
raise money for two charities that are doing fantastic work at
of the Indian Ocean.
the grassroots to support coastal communities in Somalia and
We need to find long-term solutions that
the 1.5 million seafarers around the world. I know how tough
He was aiming to kitesurf solo for over 1,000 km along the coast
this expedition will be, but I believe that we can make a positive
of East Africa, relying on the power of the wind and waves.
difference to the lives of those who bear the brunt of the risks
and costs of piracy.
I hope that the international shipping
The expedition will benefit two non-profit organisations,
community and everyone who cares about our oceans and our
the Mission to Seafarers and Adeso (African Development
seafarers will get behind our mission and help us to raise funds
Solutions). The Mission to Seafarers is a charity founded in
for the vital work of the Mission to Seafarers and Adeso.”
1856; it provides a wide range of practical welfare and support
services for seafarers and their families around the world.
Andrew Sturrock, CEO of Sturrock Grindrod Maritime; one
Adeso is an African non-profit organisation that delivers a
of Mission: Safe Ocean’s leading partners, explained why he
number of grassroots projects in Somalia and East Africa to
supports Jacob’s challenge: “Jacob is taking on a courageous
tackle some of the causes of piracy, including coastal habitat
mission in aid of two very worthy causes.
restoration and sustainable fishing initiatives. All fundraising
commitment to helping to make the oceans safer for all
proceeds raised from Jacob’s expedition will go directly
seafarers and to raise awareness of the root causes of piracy.
towards the Mission to Seafarers and Adeso.
It’s going to be an incredibly tough challenge for Jacob, but
We share Jacob’s
everyone at Sturrock Grindrod Maritime offers our very best
Jacob explained his motivation behind establishing Mission:
Jan - Jun 2015
19
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
wishes to him for strong prevailing winds and full speed.”
FOCUS ON OUR COMMUNITIES
M a ri ne s ci e n ce st ude nt s g e t o ppo r tu n ity of a l ifetime
Funded by the African Coelacanth Ecology Programme (ACEP)
and The Blue Fund (a partnership established between
Grindrod and Wildlands – a leading environmental NPO), the
Ocean Stewards Programme aims to fund vital marine and
coastal conservation work. The official launch of the ‘Ocean
Stewards Programme’ took place at the end of May.
The programme provides 16 marine and ecological science
students
(honours
and
third-year)
from
disadvantaged
backgrounds with an opportunity to experience catalytic marine
science under the guidance of key marine scientists and sector
managers. The initiative is part of the greater ACEP which is
funded through the National Research Foundation and carries
out vital marine research off the South African coastline.
These ocean stewards are partly sponsored by Grindrod.
The cost of implementing the programme for 2015 is just under
eminent marine scientists. “There are strong partnerships
R1 million. ACEP has committed R582 000 towards the costs of
behind this programme,” said Wildlands’ CEO Dr Andrew
the programme, with emphasis on underwriting the expedition
Venter. “Wildlands are excited to be part of this professional
– and research-related costs. The Blue Fund has committed
team consisting of Grindrod Limited, ACEP and Ezemvelo KZN
a further R400 000 to facilitate the actual ocean stewardship
Wildlife representatives. We all share a vision for the youth
engagement, support and mentorship process. It is supported
of this country and look forward to assisting them in igniting
by a mentorship team including many of South Africa’s pre-
positive change within the marine sector,” he concludes.
Po n do Pe d a l i s a c yc le ra ce wit h hear t
Interaction with the local communities is all part of the Grindrod Bank Umngazi Pondo Pedal.
The Grindrod Bank Umngazi Pondo Pedal, held annually over
were from Grindrod companies, complete a challenging cycle
115 km in June, has in just three years become a popular
over three days along the Eastern Cape’s stunning Wild Coast.
fixture on the mountain-biking race calendar. Billed as the
Participants experienced some of Africa’s most sought-after
epitome of purist mountain biking, what truly sets this event
virgin mountain-biking trails, whilst simultaneously raising
apart is that it is a race with heart.
much needed funds to support the surrounding Umngazi
community.
This year’s race saw a full field of 122 cyclists, 28 of whom
Jan - Jun 2015
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SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Contributor: Sarah Freestone
FOCUS ON OUR COMMUNITIES
S ea b i rd s a nctua ry o pe ns in Ga nsbaai
From left, Pippa and Mike Hankinson (Grindrod Limited Chairman), Dr Andrew Venter (CEO Wildlands Conservation Trust), Mark
Gerrard (Wildlands Threatened Species Co-ordinator) and Paul Stewart (Head of Grindrod Asset Management) at the launch of
the world class APSS.
The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) was opened
Featuring a unique rehabilitation area with a specialised
in Gansbaai in February, marking a monumental milestone for
floor, laboratory and clinic, the APSS is the first of its kind in
the conservation of the African penguin and other marine birds
the world. Rehabilitation techniques will be honed to afford
in the Overstrand region of the Western Cape.
birds in treatment minimum stress. This maximises their
rehabilitation and affords them the best chance of survival
Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom, who officially opened the
when released into the wild.
centre, said, “Projects of this nature are about the common
good; good for the environment, the community and the
“The support we received from our partners and affiliates, as
country as a whole.”
well as the donations of materials from various corporates
to complete the APSS have been a big vote of confidence in
A custom-designed, world-class, marine bird rehabilitation
our work,” said Wilfred Chivell, Founder of the Dyer Island
centre, the APSS will provide temporary rehabilitative care
Conservation Trust and APSS.
to diseased, displaced, injured, oiled or abandoned marine
birds, with a special focus on the endangered African penguin.
Said Mike Hankinson, Grindrod Limited Chairman, “We are
Marine bird rescue, rehabilitation and release form part of the
proud to invest in our ecological heritage. As Grindrod has
management plan to conserve and maintain African penguins
maritime roots, we are also keenly aware of the importance of
and other marine bird populations.
conserving and protecting our marine resources.”
Contributor: Sarah Freestone
Jan - Jun 2015
21
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR COMMUNITIES
C o a sta l b i rd s to be ne fit fro m g o lf day
Grindrod Asset Management, in partnership with Wildlands,
hosted The Blue Fund’s Cape Town golf day at the Clovelly
Country Club, Cape Town, on 22 May. Golfers were spoilt
by Grindrod Asset Management who sent out drinks carts
throughout the day and later handed out prizes.
The focus of the event was to raise awareness for The Blue
Fund, a partnership between Grindrod Financial Services and
Wildlands, which aims at supporting coastal conservation
throughout South Africa. “With South Africa’s spectacular
and lengthy coastline being the focus of much development,
there is a serious need for energy to be put into marine and
coastal
conservation,”
says
Mark
Gerrard,
Conservation
Grants Manager for Wildlands. It is for this reason that
Grindrod and Wildlands have come together to form The Blue
Fund, attempting to drive coastal conservation awareness and
support the dedicated efforts of organisations working in the
of an X-ray machine for the centre. Said Francois Louw of
sector.
SANCCOB, “The purchase of the X-ray machine will allow
SANCCOB to improve its operational efficiency as well as
Paul Stewart, head of Grindrod Asset Management, together
significantly save costs in the future, and we really appreciate
with Mark Gerrard of Wildlands, then handed over a cheque for
the support from The Blue Fund.”
Contributor: Sarah Freestone
R300 000 to members of SANCCOB to allow for the purchase
G ri n drod a nd U nico rn a t ca re e rs week
A career in the maritime industry is one that may seem out
Students were also exposed to the vast number of learnerships,
of reach or beyond consideration for previously disadvantaged
scholarships and bursaries available to them within the
students, with many of them not having been exposed to
maritime industry. At this expo, Unicorn Shipping and Grindrod,
information about a career at sea. However, the South African
represented by Verna Watson and Gold Graduate Ibanathi
Maritime Safety Association (SAMSA), which is tasked among
Ngcobo, showcased its Maritime Training Academy through
other duties to promote maritime interests, recently hosted its
facilitated presentations and an exhibition stand.
annual maritime industry careers focus week.
Learners and educators had an opportunity to ask questions
The career exhibition, which took place in March at the Sci-
and be informed on both the careers available within the
Bono Centre in Johannesburg, saw close to 3400 learners and
Grindrod group as well as the many opportunities that a career
educators engaging with various maritime stakeholders.
at sea may offer.
“If young people are made aware of the career opportunities
available to them in industries such as offshore, oil, gas,
maritime manufacturing and repairs, marine tourism and
leisure, fishing and aquaculture, and shipping logistics and
ports, this will go a long way toward dealing with rising
unemployment,” said SAMSA CEO Tsietsi Mokhele.
Contributor: Ibanathi Ngcobo
Ibanathi Ngcobo and Verna Watson at the Grindrod exhibition
stand at the SAMSA careers week.
Jan - Jun 2015
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SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON EVENTS
G ri n drod tr i o co mple te D uz i Ca no e Marath on
Pipped to the post: Andrew Waller (Grindrod) and Philip Ingham (in the white canoe) narrowly nudging out Mike Gammie and
Kim Hertzberger (Grindrod Bank) in the blue canoe.
G ri n drod R a i l a t SARA ra ilwa y co n feren ce
The Southern Africa Railways Association (SARA) hosted its
various Southern African Development Community (SADC)
annual Railway Conference and Exhibition at Emperor’s Palace,
countries, top-level executives from railway operators, and
Kempton Park, on 26 May. The theme for this year’s event was
industry experts making an appearance. Panel discussions
‘The Role of Rail Transport to the Economic Development in
included
South Africa’.
infrastructure development, funding/investment, customer
sessions
themed
around
transport
policy
and
perspectives and human capital, to name a few.
It was well attended as usual, with transport ministers from
Grindrod Rail participated in the SARA Railway conference and exhibition.
Jan - Jun 2015
23
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Contributor: Morris Kgama
FOCUS ON EVENTS
G r i n drod p a r ti c ipa te s in 2 0 1 5 Co mrades Marath on
It
might
seem
highly
unlikely
that
(@
station with cold drinks, water and
close to 200 Grindrod employees would
first
ever
internal
Twitter
page
GrindrodInitiative) was set-up and used
medical aid; cooking for the teams;
wake up at 2am on a cold winter’s day
as a live streaming platform to keep
handing out refreshments to runners;
and get to work. Well, Team Grindrod
staff updated on the events leading up
encouraging and applauding, and lastly
did it. Grindrod staff came out in their
to the day and updates throughout the
cleaning up after all the runners had
numbers on 31 May to assist at the
day.
come through. The camaraderie, team
Grindrod Refreshment Station during
This year was a little different, as we
an exceptionally successful event and
support for the runners spans close to 20
saw
reminded all concerned how much could
years, it is safe to say that the marathon
executives
is an integral part of the Grindrod
business units being capped as team
‘One Grindrod’.
social calendar. The call for volunteers
captains. The following executives led
selected by judges Alan Olivier and
went out to staff and they responded
their respective teams: Andrew Waller;
Liz Turner, was none other than Team
by registering via iAttend (Grindrod’s
Andrew Sturrock; Andrew Ehrich; André
Su Moller who kept us all happy with
Online Registration Platform - www.
Roets; Cathie Lewis; Su Moller; Steve
their master-braaing skills. It was a
iattend.co.za).
Griffiths; Walter Grindrod; Patrick Caley
day that was both memorable and fun-
and Shaun Naidoo.
filled, as we all united in the spirit of
Grindrod’s
aptly
refreshment
named
Jan - Jun 2015
22
24
spirit and hard work contributed to
the Comrades Marathon. As Grindrod’s
some
of
in
Grindrod‘s
various
respected
divisions
and
The teams were
station
was
assigned tasks which included: branding
#GrindrodRedMile.
The
the red mile; setting up the refreshment
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
be achieved if we all work together as
The winning team as
the Comrades Marathon.
Contributor: Ibanathi Ngcobo
FOCUS ON RECOGNITION
K i te s ur fe r re s c ue d by I VS Tha nda crew
On 22 February, IVS Thanda was under way on her
maiden voyage in Melbourne Bay when the bridge
team, together with the pilot on board, Captain
Gavin Barry, spotted a kite surfer with his kite on the
water, and holding his board. The pilot immediately
contacted the Melbourne Vessel Traffic Service
(VTS) informing them that IVS Thanda needed to
check the condition of the kite surfer.
As it would have taken a police boat more than an
hour to reach the kite surfer, and as the pilot was
concerned that he was at risk of being run over by
passing ships, the vessel turned back – with the
full support of the Master.
An on-board team of three prepared a rescue boat
and soon it was in the vicinity of the kite surfer.
The rescued kitesurfer is hoisted on board IVS Thanda.
M u h ammed elected ch air person
They hoisted the kite surfer, his kite and board onto
IVS Thanda and resumed their voyage to Yarraville
Congratulations to Muhammed Jagot,
6 in the Port of Melbourne. The kite surfer, aged 50,
Grindrod Asset Management, on his election as
was very grateful for the assistance.
Chairperson of the Fiduciary Institute of South
Contributor: Quentin Foyle
Africa (KZN region).
R ö hl i g - Gr i nd ro d ba g s pre st ig io us award
Congratulations to the Röhlig-Grindrod team for
walking away with the 2015 Golden Arrow Award at the
PMR Africa Leaders & Achievers Awards breakfast in
March in Johannesburg. Freight forwarders were rated
nationally across a range of attributes, including but
not limited to:
• Ability to offer alternative transport solutions
• BEE rating
• Electronic access to data
• Overall relationship with agent
• Predictability of delivery, pro-active communication
from the agent, and problem solving
• Quality of services and accuracy of documentation
• Reliability and reputation.
Contributor: Lia Lopes
Proudly holding the award are Philippe de Pinchart (Jhb Seafreight Branch
Manager), left, and Tommy Reddy (Jhb Airfreight Branch Manager).
Jan - Jun 2015
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25
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS New s i m p le r ‘ Co a st to D o o r’ co ntain er rate in trodu ced
‘Coast to Door’ is a new product which has been launched by
Röhlig-Grindrod’s Johannesburg Seafreight Import team led
by Philippe de Pinchart. The product is aimed at simplifying
the groupage tariff which has a laundry list of charges. The
majority of these charges are applicable to the South African
landside portion of a shipment – cargo dues, cross haul,
unpack, EDI, CAF, DRO and delivery fee, just to name a few.
To further complicate the matter, not all these charges are
applicable for every shipment. This makes it difficult for our
external as well as internal customers to quickly and accurately
calculate what a shipment would cost.
The ‘Coast to Door’ product consolidates all of these charges
into one rate, from the container being discharged all the way
the physical movement of the cargo. Standard agency and
to delivery at the client’s door in Johannesburg. This allows a
finance fees still apply.
customer to understand and calculate their final cost knowing
there are no hidden fees. In addition, the product has a fixed
Not only have Philippe’s team simplified tariffs, but they have
price for six months, which simplifies forecasting.
also implemented a rate structure which differentiates RöhligGrindrod in the marketplace. This is an excellent example of
The product is charged as a single line item, assisting in invoice
product innovation and enhancing the customer experience.
Contributor: Peter van de Biezen
accuracy and allowing clients to quality check invoices quickly
and easily. One note to consider is that this charge covers only
M a n y h a nd s m a ke lig ht wo rk
Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de
and to action solutions whilst consistently tracking actions to
Mozambique (CFM, a Mozambican railway company), and Grin-
finality.
drod Corridor Management (GCM), a specialist rail-corridor
management company within the Grindrod Rail Operations Di-
The forum began its work in November 2014 by conducting an
vision, have joined forces, in an effort to optimise rail through-
audit of the slot capacity available for both coal and magne-
put in the Maputo corridor. This is done by jointly identifying
tite flows to Maputo. The capacity verification was followed
system bottlenecks and finding solutions to bring about ef-
by the design of operating models aimed at establishing what
ficiencies, while at the same time ensuring safe operations.
resources were needed in relation to what was available and
secondly, how these resources should interact such that the
The existing collaborative relationship traces its humble be-
capacity is optimised.
ginnings from the monthly operations meetings which started
in 2008. These where later formalised into monthly tactical
Many significant milestones were achieved, culminating for ex-
committee meetings with a grand objective of setting and sup-
ample in the achievement of 30 magnetite trains in one week
porting the corridor’s strategic growth path.
for the first time in the history of the corridor. These trains
delivered a record 108 558 tonne in a week, showing that many
The Maputo corridor workshop was conceived at one of these
monthly meetings to serve as an action arm of the committee.
The workshop, which sits every second week, set out to deal
with issues negatively affecting the corridor’s performance
Jan - Jun 2015
26
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
hands do indeed make light work.
Contributors: A Sebakelwang & Kalucia Pillay
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS T hi rd a nni ve rsa ry o f Grindro d Payers & Growers fu n ds
®
Grindrod Asset Management (GrAM) celebrated the third birthday of its Payers
& Growers ® unit trust fund range on 1 March 2015, after commencing operations
in March 2012.
Our funds started their lives after GrAM acquired Plexus Asset Management
and created a full suite of unit trust funds under the Grindrod Collective
Investments RF (Pty) Management Company Limited.
We have called our investment philosophy Payers & Growers® because this
term refers to how we construct our portfolios, and talks to the unique outcomes
our funds deliver. The Payers and Growers ® philosophy and process culminates
in the selection of securities that demonstrate particular characteristics
and therefore create portfolios with recognisable and useful investment
characteristics.
Payers are securities that pay regular income (usually quarterly or six monthly)
by way of interest or dividends. Payer securities have a clear and unambiguous
dividend policy i.e. they pay regular and consistent dividends.
Payers are
usually stable companies that possess acceptable dividend:cover ratios and
Paul Stewart, Head: Fund Management
are cash generative.
Growers are securities that have historically demonstrated growth in their
interest or dividends payments by inflation or more. Grower securities usually
have some competitive edge in the industry they operate in, enjoy good margins
and are forecast to continue their dividend payment trend over the next three
to five years.
Payers and Growers® portfolios will include securities that demonstrate both of
these characteristics to a greater or lesser extent. It has been shown in several
academic studies that securities that pay regular and consistent dividends,
with inflation-linked growth, deliver excellent long-term real returns versus
This graph shows the performance of the Stable
Growth Fund since inception.
both the benchmark and peer group.
As of 1 March 2015, our GrAM funds had delivered the following 3-year
investment returns:
• Grindrod Stable Growth Fund – 15.86% per annum, placing it first out of 92
funds in the category
• Grindrod Managed Growth Fund – 20.46% per annum, placing it second out
of 113 funds in the category
• Grindrod Balanced Fund – 19.93% per annum, placing it third out of 113 funds
in the category
• Grindrod High Income Fund – 8.44% per annum, placing it seventh out of 54
funds in the category
(Source Moneymate: Returns quoted net of all management fees and calculated on a lump sum
investment on NAV to NAV basis with distributions reinvested at ex-date)
This graph shows the performance of the
Balanced Fund since inception.
Jan - Jun 2015
27
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
Contributor: Paul Stewart, Head: Fund Management
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS P ro j e ct Fus i on upda te - SAP ro ll- ou t con tin u es
has assisted in driving BBBEE compliance and analysis. The
teams involved have also seen an improvement in the quality
and efficiency of reporting by maintaining robust SAP asset
registers.
Most importantly, as key finance business processes are
integrated across the group, the business as a whole is saving
time, providing the opportunity to focus on operations.
Another busy few weeks await the project and business
team, and we look forward to supporting the Automotive and
Intermodal business teams as they launch into their Go-Live,
complete their first month ends on SAP and join the Grindrod
SAP community.
Contributor: Jacquie Ambrose
We are fast approaching another milestone in the Fusion
Project. The project and business teams have once again been
hard at work preparing for the Intermodal and Automotive’s
first month end on SAP at the end of August.
The complexity of managing the combined training sessions
for both businesses has been immense, juggling over 200
delegates, attending 100 training sessions in five different
locations whilst ensuring business continues as usual in
preparation for July month-end reporting.
We would like to thank the business leads from both companies
for their commitment and support in driving this and commend
the teams on their commitment and dedication to preparing
for Go-Live.
Change is challenging and the roll-outs do not
happen in isolation as many other business initiatives are
under way simultaneously. Grindrod’s agility and ability to
embrace the challenge is inspiring and the level of effort and
determination people in the business display in embracing this
change is encouraging.
Feedback from those businesses who are already transacting
in SAP suggests that we are starting to realise some of the
benefits from the SAP implementation.
The streamlining of
internal processes in conjunction with SAP has had a significant
impact on alignment and encouraging standardisation.
The improved control environment including standardised
chart of accounts, three-way matching as well as the new PO
process for travel, has helped with visibility on travel spend
and savings. The centralised vendor masterfile management
Jan - Jun 2015
28
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
You r tip-off is impor tan t ...
FOCUS ON OUR BUSINESS Va n g ua rd ’s stra nd ja c ks a re sa fe , precise an d cost-effective
Vanguard was recently requested by a client in Namibia to
Vanguard used strand jacks to lift a conveyor gantry 30 m.
assist with lifting and placing sections of a conveyor gantry
into a position, 30 metres above ground level, where the
The sections being lifted consisted of three weighing 115
construction work on the conveyor would then be completed.
tonnes each, and the fourth weighing 135 tonnes, each being
The initial request was to execute this work using large cranes,
50.4 metres in length. The strand jacks had a lifting capacity
with the final construction being done at height.
of 70 tonnes each, and the contract employed four jacks at
different points to lift the load. The conveyor gantries were
Vanguard conceptualised and engineered an alternative project
connected to and lifted by the strand jacks using high-tensile
solution using strand jacks, according to Roger Rousseau.
steel cables, or strands. The lifting itself was computer-
“While strand jacks have been in use globally for some time,
controlled.
their versatility and benefits are not well known in the field of
steel construction in Southern Africa,” said Rousseau.
The equipment was translocated from Vanguard’s Johannesburg
yard to site a in Namibia, where it was assembled, ready for the
“Our engineered solution allowed the client to complete the
first lift. “The lift itself took approximately five hours, starting
assembly of gantry sections on the ground, improving safety
at 09h00,” he said. “Lifting each section of the gantry required
and the speed of the work, while facilitating closer quality
us to build our structure, conduct the lift, and break it down
control. It is also more economical, as the cost of deploying
so that it could be moved to where the next section had to be
large cranes for an extended period is uncompromising in the
placed.”
Contributor: Craig Pace
face of delays.
Jan - Jun 2015
29
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
G ri n drod P rop ert y Ho lding s se rv in g th e Grou p wel l
An executive decision was taken by Grindrod Freight Services in
• Overall operating costs to be reduced through bulk savings
2008 to transfer the properties owned by the operating entities
into a property holding company, Grindrod Property Holdings.
The Grindrod operating divisions (excluding Grindrod Bank)
currently pay in excess of R300 million per annum in rentals, of
Grindrod Property Leasing was already in existence and
which R144 million is paid internally to our property company.
ultimately owns the Grindrod office blocks along Margaret
Mncadi Avenue, namely Grindrod House, Grindrod Mews,
Grindrod Properties has been involved in many capital projects
Grindrod Parkade, Mansion House and Quadrant House.
and has since 2009 acquired or developed property amounting
Grindrod Property Holdings is the ultimate holding company
to R370 million. The largest project has been the Denver
for all property interests.
Container and Warehousing Park of R190 million which was
recently completed.
The Grindrod Property Holdings strategy was developed around
the following key principles:
Grindrod Properties also project managed the development of
the Maputo Intermodal Container Depot (MICD) on behalf of
• Property ownership is an integral part of successful
logistics businesses
Grindrod Intermodal and Dubai Ports World, at a development
cost of R210 million; the project was completed in May 2014.
• Strategic properties will be acquired or developed to be
leased to affiliate Grindrod SA companies.
• Advice given with respect to the reviewing and negotiation
of existing and future property leases
Grindrod Properties also developed a ‘new home’ for both
Unicorn Training Academy and Sturrock Grindrod Marine Tech
in Durban; they were completed in May 2015.
• Interest rate risk to be managed on a long-term basis and
exposure limited where possible
• GPH needs to preserve and enhance the value of properties
The expansion of the Navitrade coal facility is under way and is
presently being funded through Grindrod Properties.
owned through on-going maintenance, upgrading and
refurbishment
• Property assets will be used to leverage better lending
margins from commercial banks.
We are, as a team, very happy to assist all Grindrod Group
companies with any property-related queries as we strive to
‘add value’ to the Grindrod Group.
The main
entrance
to Intermodal’s
new Denver
Partners in Publishing
facility.
If you have any news for us, please contact Alison Briggs on:
tel: (031) 302 7111 e-mail: alisonb@grindrod.co.za
MAKING WAVES is produced by Grindrod Limited
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