Powering the Future: Kanoo Energy's Vision for ADIPEC 2025

 

Originally published at EXPERT OPINION - By Raman Marwaha, General Manager - Kanoo Energy, UAE & Oman

As Kanoo Energy prepares to take the global stage at ADIPEC 2025, we arrive with renewed purpose, sharpened focus, and a bold ambition. This year's theme, "Energy. Intelligence. Impact," resonates deeply with our mission. In a region and a world where energy systems are transforming faster than ever, we remain committed to delivering future-ready solutions that make energy smarter, cleaner, and more resilient.

A Platform for Transformation

Taking place from November 3-6 in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, places particular emphasis on three critical areas: the convergence of digital intelligence with the energy value chain, building resilient and inclusive energy systems that deliver affordably with lower carbon intensity, and elevating emerging economies through partnerships and cross-sector collaboration.

For Kanoo Energy, ADIPEC 2025 represents more than an opportunity to observe industry trends. It's a platform to engage meaningfully, shape conversations, and demonstrate leadership in the energy transition.

Three Strategic Pillars

Our presence at ADIPEC is organized around three interconnected pillars that align with the event's overarching theme.

The first pillar is energy that is secure, diversified, and decarbonized. The global energy landscape is in constant motion. Demand from data centers, artificial intelligence, and industrial growth continues to rise, even as decarbonization imperatives become more urgent. Kanoo Energy is accelerating this shift by embracing low-carbon fuels, supporting hydrogen and ammonia value chains, optimizing conventional assets, and delivering high energy efficiency solutions along with decarbonization solutions which are tailored for the Gulf region and beyond.

Our second pillar is intelligence through digital tools, analytics, and AI-driven operations. As ADIPEC emphasizes, the digital and AI agenda is no longer optional; it's essential. We help clients embed intelligence across their operations, from predictive maintenance in mechanical services to advanced analytics in HSE, Business Processes, Supply Chain optimization and digital twin solutions for engineering, procurement, and construction projects.

The third pillar is impact, focused on real-world delivery, partnerships, and scale. Positive change only matters when it's tangible. ADIPEC's emphasis on moving from dialogue to delivery aligns perfectly with our approach. Kanoo Energy's impact agenda includes enabling local manufacturing of critical equipment, extending services across Africa and the GCC, investing in workforce capability, and driving sustainability through service excellence and carbon-conscious project execution.

Responding to Regional and Global Shifts

Several powerful forces are reshaping the energy landscape, and Kanoo Energy is positioned to respond effectively to each of them.

Across the GCC and Middle East, the region is accelerating its industrialization, infrastructure development, and energy transition agenda. Many projects now focus on gas, hydrogen, ammonia, carbon capture, and renewable integration. Our heritage in mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and control services, combined with our deep regional network, positions us to support these ambitions.

On the technology front, AI, digital twins, and advanced analytics have evolved from nice-to-have innovations to essential cost and carbon levers. Meanwhile, supply chains are shifting toward localization of manufacturing, shorter lead times, resilient logistics, and circular economy solutions.

Energy security and geopolitics add another layer of complexity. With ongoing volatility in supply and demand, companies must build systems that are robust, flexible, and agile. ADIPEC 2025 highlights this dual imperative of resilience and transformation, and Kanoo Energy is ready to address both.

Our Showcase at ADIPEC

Throughout the event, we'll present case studies of projects where we've applied digital and intelligent solutions to improve asset performance and reduce emissions. Our booth will serve as a hub for meetings with partners and clients, where we'll discuss how our integrated service offering delivers value across the full project lifecycle, from mechanical engineering to digital solutions.

We'll also participate in conference sessions and roundtables on critical topics such as digitalizing maintenance in Gulf oil and gas operations and localizing supply chains for low-carbon fuels. Before, during, and after the event, we'll share thought leadership content through blog posts, social media updates, and video snippets to amplify a clear message: Kanoo Energy is a future-ready, trusted partner.

Join Us at ADIPEC 2025

We invite you to visit our booth at ADIPEC for a demonstration of our intelligence-powered service platform. If you'd like to arrange a meeting in advance, please send us a note through our website and we'll schedule a time that works for you. You can also follow our live updates on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter from November 3-6 using the hashtags #KanooEnergy, #ADIPEC2025, and #EnergyIntelligenceImpact.

At a time when the energy ecosystem demands more supply, more efficiency, and more sustainability, Kanoo Energy responds with a single promise: intelligent energy delivered for impact. We're proud to stand at ADIPEC 2025 with that conviction, and we look forward to connecting with you, collaborating with you, and converting our shared ambition into real-world action.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Driving Industrial Innovation: Kanoo Machinery at Gulfood Manufacturing 2025

 

Originally published at EXPERT OPINION - By Kannan Chandrasekaran, General Manager UAE, Oman & Bahrain, Kanoo Machinery

The food manufacturing industry is at a turning point. From the factory floor to the warehouse, everything is changing—and changing fast. New technologies, rising sustainability demands, and a push for local production are reshaping how we make, store, and move food across the region.

This November, Kanoo Machinery will be at the heart of this transformation. We're exhibiting at Gulfood Manufacturing 2025 (4-6 November, Dubai World Trade Centre, Hall 4, Stand A4-30), bringing together our trusted partner brands—Hyster, Aisle Master, Combilift, Tennant Company, Sullair, Summits Hygronics India, and JCB Access Equipment—to showcase solutions that are already shaping the future of food manufacturing and storage.

But make no mistake: this isn't just about displaying machines. It's about solving real problems, responding to urgent industry shifts, and helping businesses like yours adapt, compete, and win.

Why This Moment Matters

Gulfood Manufacturing 2025 will gather thousands of exhibitors and decision-makers from across the food processing, packaging, automation, and supply chain sectors. For anyone involved in machinery and logistics, this is the event that defines the year ahead.

Three major forces are driving change right now:

• Digital transformation is accelerating. Automation and smart technology are no longer optional—they're essential. Manufacturers are cutting costs, reducing waste, minimizing downtime, and increasing output by embracing digital tools and intelligent equipment.
• Sustainability has moved from buzzword to business requirement. Food and beverage companies are actively seeking greener, more efficient machinery. They want shorter lead times, local suppliers, and equipment that helps them meet environmental targets without sacrificing performance.
• Regional production is booming. The GCC's investment in food manufacturing capacity—driven by initiatives like "Make it in the Emirates"—means warehouses, cold chains, and material-handling infrastructure are in higher demand than ever before.

That's why we're here. We're not just exhibitors—we're innovation partners for the food manufacturing ecosystem.

The Equipment That Powers Progress

At Stand A4-30, we'll showcase equipment from our principal brands, each addressing specific challenges facing the industry today:

• Hyster brings proven reliability in forklifts and material-handling equipment—built for the high-speed, high-volume demands of modern food manufacturing and storage.
• Aisle Master offers the ultimate in versatility: articulated forklifts designed for narrow aisles and high-reach applications. Perfect for warehouses where space is tight and layouts keep changing.
• Combilift specializes in multi-directional handling solutions that maximize storage density—essential for cold and frozen warehouses where every square meter counts.
• Tennant Company provides cleaning and maintenance equipment that keeps production environments spotless. In food manufacturing, hygiene isn't just important—it's everything.
• Sullair delivers high efficiency compressed air systems critical to food production lines. Clean air, reliable performance, and serious energy savings—all in one package.
• Summits Hygronics brings temperature control, dehumidification, and clean-environment technology—increasingly vital as GCC manufacturing scales up.
• JCB Access equipment or Aerial Work Platforms offers excellent safety to take people on heights for all maintenance applications. 

Together, these brands represent something bigger than individual machines. They represent our commitment to providing integrated, future-ready solutions for the region's food manufacturing and storage needs.

The Big Challenges We're Tackling

Manufacturing Closer to Home

The UAE and wider GCC are investing billions in local food production capacity. Government initiatives are pushing for domestic manufacturing, shorter supply chains, and reduced dependence on imports.

For machinery providers, this means growing demand for complete production lines, cold-chain infrastructure, and flexible systems that can adapt as product needs evolve.

The Smart Factory Revolution

The industry has moved beyond basic automation. Today's leading manufacturers use real-time data, predictive maintenance, and flexible production lines that can switch between products quickly. Robotics are becoming standard in processing and packaging.

Kanoo Machinery is ready. Our equipment partners build smart capabilities into their machines, and our team knows how to integrate them seamlessly into food manufacturing operations.

Meeting the Triple Challenge: Cost, Sustainability, Hygiene

Modern food manufacturers face pressure from all sides. They must control costs, meet sustainability targets, and maintain the highest hygiene standards—all simultaneously.

The machinery they choose must deliver lower energy consumption, less waste, easier cleaning, and modular upgrades that extend equipment life.

At Gulfood Manufacturing, we'll show exactly how our solutions address these demands—whether through Sullair's energy-efficient compressed air systems, Combilift's space-saving designs, or Tennant's hygiene-focused cleaning technology

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

A Golden Journey: Sidney's 50 Years with The Kanoo Group

 

When a young man from India arrived in Dubai in 1975, no one could have imagined he would become a living legend.

His name is Sidharthan Kizhkutt, but everyone calls him Sidney. The nickname started simply enough—European colleagues struggled with his Indian name, so "Sidney" it became. Five decades later, that name has become synonymous with loyalty, dedication, and the very heart of The Kanoo Group.

On October 22, 2025, something remarkable happened at the Kanoo Machinery headquarters in Al Quoz, Dubai. The company celebrated what few organizations ever witness: an employee completing 50 years of service. Half a century. Most of a lifetime. All devoted to one company.

A Celebration of Loyalty

The gathering was intimate but powerful. Maha Hamed Kanoo, Director of The Kanoo Group, led the celebration, joined by Mohammad Tariq, HR Manager for UAE & Oman, and Maryam AlBusaidy, Assoc CIPD, HR Manager for Administration & Emiratization.

As a Parts Salesman in the Kanoo Machinery division, Sidney didn't just witness the company's transformation—he was part of it. He arrived when The Kanoo Group was building its foundation in the region. He stayed through every challenge, every triumph, every milestone that turned it into the powerful conglomerate it is today.

Miss Maha's speech captured what everyone in the room felt. Her words weren't just corporate praise—they were heartfelt recognition of something rare in today's world: unwavering loyalty. Sidney chose The Kanoo Group in 1975, and he chose it again every single day for 50 years.

More Than an Employee

Not every company has a golden boy. The Kanoo Group does—and his name is Sidney.

His story represents more than longevity. It's about belonging, about finding a place where your work matters and staying there because it becomes part of who you are. In an era when people change jobs every few years, Sidney's journey stands as a testament to what happens when a company values its people, and when an employee gives their heart to their work.

 

Sidney's full story will be published here soon. Stay tuned to learn about the man who gave half a century to a dream and helped build The Kanoo Group along the way—a narrative told through his own eyes.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Shaping the Future of Cultural Investment

 

By invitation of H.H. Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mishal Kanoo, Chairman of The Kanoo Group, participated as a distinguished speaker at the inaugural Cultural Investment Conference, organized by Richard Attias & Associates.

Event Details:

📅 29-30 September 2025

📍 King Fahad Cultural Center | Riyadh | Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Mr. Kanoo joined an esteemed panel for the session "Who Funds Culture – and Who Gets Heard?" – a thought-provoking discussion that explored one of the most critical questions facing our creative economy: How do funding models shape representation, accessibility, and authenticity within our cultural ecosystem?

Key Contributions to the Discussion

Mishal Kanoo emphasized the imperative to examine the delicate balance between market forces, public responsibility, and artistic freedom. His perspective centered on how cultural investors and stakeholders can create funding structures that:

✓ Ensure diverse voices are not just heard, but amplified

✓ Support authentic cultural expression while maintaining financial sustainability

✓ Bridge the gap between commercial viability and artistic integrity

✓ Foster inclusivity across all levels of cultural participation

A Call for Intentional Cultural Investment

Mr. Kanoo highlighted that true cultural investment transcends capital—it requires a steadfast commitment to democratizing access and championing underrepresented narratives. He posed a vital question to the audience: whose stories are being funded, and more importantly, whose stories remain untold?

In his closing remarks, Mr. Kanoo shared a powerful reflection:

"I would like to share my perspective on the significance of art as a means of self-expression and its role in reflecting our community and identity. Creative thinking holds value in our lives, regardless of its monetary worth."

The discussion reinforced the collective responsibility to work toward a future where cultural investment serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth and meaningful representation. The path forward requires intentionality, collaboration, and a shared vision for a cultural landscape that reflects the rich diversity of our global community.

Mishal Kanoo expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to this landmark conversation alongside fellow panelists who brought remarkable depth, insight, and spirited exchange to this pivotal dialogue.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

THE HIGH BUSINESS COST OF DOING THE BARE MINIMUM

 

If companies don't strive for excellence, people will take their customers elsewhere.

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This opinion article is penned by Mishal Kanoo, originally published at AGBI - Arabian Gulf Business Insight.

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It has become almost commonplace to witness businesses doing just enough to meet expectations rather than going above and beyond. While this trend isn’t always immediately obvious, it’s pervasive across industries.

Sometimes it’s easy to spot; other times, you need to look deeper. But the underlying theme remains the same: companies focus on ticking contractual boxes rather than truly satisfying or impressing their customers.

Contrast this with a company like Emirates – the Dubai-based airline has carved a stellar reputation by exceeding expectations over and over. From the service on board to the design of its lounges, the organization treats “excellence” as non-negotiable.

That’s why it commands fierce loyalty and generates word-of-mouth buzz that advertising alone could never buy. It shows what happens when “good” consistently goes beyond “good enough”.

Cutting corners for convenience

Look at the construction industry. Walk through a new commercial building in Dubai and you might notice crooked sockets, mismatched grout or uneven tiles.

These may seem like minor flaws, but they reveal a deeper issue: businesses prioritizing speed and profit over pride and quality. As long as the project meets contractual terms, many consider the job done, regardless of appearance.

Not every contractor is careless – many takes pride in their craft – but relentless pressure to deliver fast and cheap leads to compromise. These shortcuts may not affect structural safety, but they degrade the experience.

The unspoken question is what’s the harm if the tiles don’t quite line up?

The answer is simple: it betrays a mindset that mediocrity is acceptable. And that’s the opposite of what Islamic teaching – and common sense – demands.

One should strive for excellence in every task. That principle isn’t just moral, it’s good business. This philosophy should be applied in all fields, whether construction or any other industry.

Shrinking value, rising disappointment

The packaged food industry offers another example.

Buy a bag of crisps and you’ll find half of it is air. Companies reduce the weight of contents or alter the ingredients to make the product cheaper to produce, all while maintaining the same price.

Take one well-known chocolate brand: formerly known for tightly packed mountain peaks, now redesigned with thinner, widely spaced triangles. Technically still chocolate, but the experience feels cheapened.

This practice may be legal, but it’s damaging – staying within the rules while quietly rinsing the customer.

These businesses are missing an opportunity to foster loyalty or deliver true value.

The long-term impact of ‘good enough’

Ultimately, the problem with the “good enough” approach is that it’s short-sighted. In the long run, customers value quality, integrity and attention to detail far more than many companies realize.

Hence businesses that build a reputation for mediocrity will be overtaken by those that consistently deliver more than what’s expected.

Look at how newer, disruptive companies have displaced legacy businesses which have grown complacent with their established market share.

These disruptors gained traction by offering something better – whether it was superior customer service, a more innovative product, or simply a better experience.

Holding ourselves accountable

The key takeaway here is that people are not stupid. Consumers can tell when they’re being shortchanged – whether it’s in a poorly constructed building or an underwhelming chocolate bar.

The line between “good” and “good enough” isn’t a technicality; it’s the difference between resilience and irrelevance. Companies that aim only to scrape by will lose ground. Those that treat excellence as non-negotiable will thrive.

In the end, that’s what truly separates “good” from “good enough”.

Kanoo Shipping Celebrates Maritime Innovation with Höegh Sunrise's Historic Maiden Call

 

We at Kanoo Shipping were proud to join the plaque exchange ceremony at Jebel Ali Port to mark the maiden call of Höegh Sunrise, the fifth vessel in Höegh Autoliners’ groundbreaking Aurora-class series. The event was attended by senior officials from DP World, the Höegh Autoliners management team, and our Kanoo team, making it a truly memorable milestone.

The Aurora-class vessels are the largest and most environmentally advanced car carriers ever built, with a capacity of 9,100 CEUs. They represent a bold step forward in tackling the challenge of reducing global shipping emissions – with Höegh Autoliners aiming for zero-emission operations by 2040.

As a trusted partner, Kanoo Shipping is delighted to have supported this historic maiden call at Jebel Ali. The Höegh Sunrise is more than just a marvel of modern engineering – it is a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and the future of deep-sea transportation.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Höegh Autoliners as they lead the way toward a more sustainable maritime industry.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Kanoo Shipping Inaugurates New Abu Dhabi Office to Strengthen UAE Presence

 

Abu Dhabi, 10th September 2025 – Kanoo Shipping, a division of the prestigious The Kanoo Group, celebrated the inauguration of its expanded office at Makeen Tower, Abu Dhabi. The move to this larger, state-of-the-art facility represents the company's commitment to enhancing service capabilities for its high-profile clients across the UAE and the region.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Mr. Mohamed Kanoo, Deputy Chairman of The Kanoo Group, alongside Mr. Abdul Latif Kanoo. The inauguration brought together key leadership including Mr. John Drinkwater, CEO of Kanoo Shipping; Mr. Steve Blackney, COO; Captain Pramod Arora, Vice President – UAE & Oman; Mr. Mahasara Iddawela, VP Commercial; and Ms. Retha Els, VP Finance.

Mr. Ali Ahmed Ali Abbas, Shipping Manager – Abu Dhabi, worked closely with Captain Pramod Arora, Vice President – UAE & Oman, to host distinguished guests, partners, and principals at the ceremony. The event drew strong participation from Kanoo Shipping's long-standing partners, including representatives from Höegh, ONE Line and Jan De Nul, demonstrating the company's robust industry relationships.

The new Abu Dhabi facility will house more than 30 staff members and represents Kanoo Shipping's commitment to growth, innovation, and service excellence. Company leadership emphasized that this expansion signifies more than just a new workplace—it embodies the organization's strategic vision to strengthen its UAE footprint and reinforce its position as one of the most trusted names in global shipping and logistics.

This latest office opening underscores Kanoo Shipping's continued investment in the UAE market and its dedication to providing enhanced service capabilities to clients across the region.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Kanoo Employee Participates in Special Olympics MENA Regional Equestrian Competition

 

Special Olympics UAE team secures 16 medals at Special Olympics MENA Regional Equestrian Competition

Mohd Sagher Mubarak Mohammed Mubarak of Kanoo Machinery proudly participated in the Special Olympics MENA Regional Equestrian Competition, which took place in Al Ain, UAE, from August 24 to 28, 2025.

Mr. Mohammed Mubarak, serving as coach of the UAE Special Olympics National Team for People of Determination, led his equestrian team of eight riders with intellectual disabilities to an outstanding performance, securing an impressive total of 16 medals at the competition. Their remarkable achievements included 9 gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze medals. Throughout the event, the team and Mr. Mohammed proudly wore Kanoo caps and Kanoo magnetic badges, demonstrating The Kanoo Group's unwavering support for Mr. Mohammed and his dedicated team.

This groundbreaking competition was held for the first time in Al Ain at the Mounted Police Headquarters, marking a historic milestone for the region.

In partnership with Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa, the MENA Regional Equestrian Competition brought together Athletes of Determination from 11 national programs to showcase their exceptional talents and abilities. The participating countries included the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, and Iran.

The Special Olympics UAE Regional Equestrian Competition represents a significant milestone in advancing the integration and recognition of people of determination within the sporting community and society at large.

The inspirational motto that guides all Athletes of Determination is: "Let me win. If I cannot, let me be brave in trying."

This event transcends traditional competition boundaries, serving as a powerful celebration of ability, confidence, and inclusion. The competition featured complementary community events and awareness activities designed to engage families and the broader public, fostering greater understanding and appreciation for the abilities of people of determination.

Kanoo's visible support through branded merchandise reflects the company's commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the important work being done to create opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Together, we ride toward a more inclusive future.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Kanoo Travel Partners with QuadLabs to Launch eo Corporate Travel Solution

Kanoo Travel, a leading travel management company in the Middle East, has partnered with QuadLabs, a global travel technology leader, to launch their own Corporate Travel Solution – “eo”. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance corporate travel management by leveraging advanced technology to offer seamless, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for businesses across the region.

This partnership signifies a major milestone in corporate travel, combining Kanoo Travel’s deep market expertise with QuadLabs’ innovative technology. The eo Corporate Platform is specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses, streamlining the travel booking and management process while ensuring compliance with corporate policies.

Built on QuadLabs’ next-generation platform, "Travog," the eo Corporate Platform provides a comprehensive set of features tailored for corporate clients. It enables businesses to efficiently manage their entire travel itinerary through an integrated and user-friendly interface. Key functionalities include real-time booking, policy enforcement, expense tracking, and seamless approvals, ensuring that corporate travel remains cost-effective and hassle-free.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Harvey Lines, Acting CEO of Kanoo Travel, said: “We are committed to delivering innovative travel solutions to our corporate clients. Partnering with QuadLabs allows us to offer an advanced platform that simplifies corporate travel while enhancing cost savings, efficiency, and compliance.”

Mr. Gaurav Chiripal, CEO of QuadLabs, added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Kanoo Travel to introduce the eo Corporate Platform. Our goal is to empower corporate travel managers with cutting-edge tools that optimize the travel experience, making it more seamless, transparent, and policy compliant.”

The eo Corporate Platform is expected to transform corporate travel management in the Middle East, reinforcing Kanoo Travel’s position as a leader in business travel solutions.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department  

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Trust is the hidden backbone of family businesses

 

OPINION by Mishal Kanoo for AGBI - Arabian Gulf Business Insight

Trust is the hidden backbone of family businesses

In today’s world, it is becoming increasingly difficult to trust.

Whether it’s people, information, institutions or even the leaders we rely on, the concept of trust is becoming harder to attain. This challenge becomes especially critical when trust impacts our health, finances or personal wellbeing.

That’s why leadership rooted in trust is essential, and nowhere is this more evident than in the context of family businesses – mine, and others.

One of the defining differences between a family business and a traditional corporate entity is that the family’s reputation often stands in for the company’s brand.

Customers and partners don’t just buy a product or service; they buy into a legacy. They trust that the values, integrity and name behind the business are as reliable as the offering itself.

In the Gulf, the issue of trust is especially significant in business. In the Western world, company transactions are based on contracts that are enforceable through courts.

While we do have court systems here, a residual effect of having a newer legal system is that business transactions often occur on trust. The idea of an agreement done over a word or a handshake is still something that people would honor here. This is why trust is significantly more felt when doing business in the Gulf.

But here’s the catch. Once trust is broken, it may never be fully restored. Even with the best public relations efforts, the stain remains.

And while outward image can sometimes be patched over, internal trust, such as between family members, employees and leadership, is far more fragile and far more critical. When that breaks, recovery becomes exponentially harder.

It’s one thing for the public to question the brand. It’s another when the family itself no longer believes in its leadership. This internal disintegration can quietly destroy the core of the business, long before anyone on the outside notices.

Family businesses often tout heritage, tradition and continuity. These attributes become synonymous with reliability – but only if they are consistently lived out. A company known for honesty and unity must continuously instill those values not only among current leaders, but also in employees, partners and, crucially, the next generation.

Healthy bonds for healthy business

Take something as basic as communication. Healthy communication is the lifeline of any family business. Trust in leadership is sustained when there is open dialogue, mutual respect and a sense of fairness. When leaders stop listening, or when decisions are made unilaterally and justified by age or inheritance alone, the foundation begins to rot.

If leadership is assumed simply because of a last name or seniority, and not because of merit, the family business is already heading toward disaster. That downward spiral becomes a question of “when” not “if.”

We have seen some families in the Gulf going to battle in a very public manner. Some prominent names have gone through the courts. These cases have focused on arguably petty issues, as well as more fundamental areas such as leadership or ownership of the company.

Once that threshold is crossed, there is rarely a path back. Such a public fracture sends a message to everyone – employees, clients, suppliers and the public at large: Greed has overtaken governance. Trust has evaporated. Leadership has failed.

Employees, caught in the crossfire, become paralyzed. Productivity drops, morale collapses, and the sense of purpose that once held the company together disappears.

External partners, witnessing how family members treat each other, begin to ask: If this is how they handle their own blood, how will they treat me if things go wrong?

Contracts become short term. Deals are viewed as final rather than ongoing. In some cases, relationships are severed altogether.

I have seen scenarios first-hand in my own business where our family members and employees are confused as to what direction they should take when they see fighting within the family.

What once was a trusted legacy can quickly become a cautionary tale. This comes to be all because a handful of individuals allowed pride, control or self-interest to supersede collaboration and humility.

Worse still, those around the leadership may remain silent not out of agreement, but out of fear, complicity or misplaced loyalty. And so, the cycle continues, even as the foundation weakens.

Can any family business afford to be led by people who are not trustworthy?

The answer is no. I say this because trust is not a luxury in family business. It is the currency everything else is built upon.

In the end, businesses can recover from financial setbacks, market losses or even failed strategies. But once trust is gone, the damage is deeper, longer lasting and sometimes irreversible.

Mishal Kanoo is chairman of The Kanoo Group, a UAE and Oman-based conglomerate.