Cost Cutting Without Affecting the Brand

March 16, 2009 - PRLog -- Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Cost cutting is probably the most common term used world over as a means to keep organizations buoyant in these challenging times.  As operational costs accounts for one of the biggest expenditure in maintaining a centre, shopping centres and retailers are facing tremendous pressure to reduce operational costs and find effective and efficient ways of lowering costs in times of tough economic conditions.  

Aimed at helping centres overcome this challenge of reducing costs without affecting the brand is what led the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC) to put together this training program for retail real estate industry professionals. Titled “Operating in a Cost Cutting Environment” this two day workshop will be held on April 5 – 6 at the Burjuman Rotana Suites in Dubai, UAE.

“The retail real estate industry like every other business has to respond to the trying economic times.  Companies have to alter their business models, reduce costs, increase efficiency and work together with the stakeholders involved to overcome the challenges.  It takes great effort to match the goal of lowering operating costs without negatively affecting the shopping experience and we are sure that this workshop will help participants achieve that perfect balance”, says Kim Redman, Regional Director of MECSC.

The two day program is led by Duncan Waddell, one of Australia’s leading authorities in the profession of Facilities Management and Operations who has more than 18 years of international management experience.  Having worked with various leading companies in the Middle East, Duncan is familiar with the dynamics of this market.

“It is critical for Operations and Facilities Managers to gain insights on how to manage their tenants’ expectations and at the same time get the best out of their suppliers and contractors” comments Waddell, who is also Chairman of the Corporate Real Estate Committee of the Property Council of Australia.

The 2 day workshop has been designed for staff and service providers who have a hands-on role in property management and operations. Consequently, this program is indispensable for all industry professionals involved in facilities management, operations and mall management, including operations and facilities managers/executives, mall managers and property managers as well as operations supervisors, contractors and consultants.

A site visit, case studies and various practical examples along with active participation will further boost the learning experience of all participants.

For further information please contact the MECSC office on register@mecsc.org, telephone +9714 359 7909 or visit www.mecsc.org

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The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres is based in Dubai and is a voluntary non-profit association. MECSC represents shopping mall owners, developers, marketing managers, leasing managers and specialists, retailers, consultants, property managers etc