I have to admit my belief that, even to this day, the Public Relations sector is quite underestimated, mainly by small and medium sized enterprises. Most of the business world is not really aware of how Public Relations can benefit their company. Even marketing and sales professionals do not really ‘get’ how this sector fits in their marketing strategies. Let’s walk though it to understand it then; and by the time you are finished reading this article you will know, that there’s so much more to Public Relations than parties and cocktails.

The PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) considers Public Relations as a crucial element of a communication strategy, aiming to benefit both the company and its customers. PR’s key role is to create and sustain the right image for a business or a brand.To make this happen, you must first play your cards right and this, is something you can do both ways: either by supporting or strengthening an advertising campaign, or by giving Public Relations methods a leading role in the communication process, with no use of advertising.

With Public Relations being my passion for 14 years, I think every business that cares about its image and its exposure, must realize the importance of PR. This is especially true for businesses that want to improve their image, but also how this image is presented by the media and on the internet. With the right content, by selecting the right exposure channels and the right PR practitioners as their partner, Public Relations can be ‘the ace up your sleeve’.

Public Relations sector is the creative industry of the future, which requires a harmonious synchronization of all communication specialties, with maximum performance demanded today more than ever before. Today as the market recovers, we see a tremendous improvement of the businesses world; a fact that makes a PR practitioner, an indispensable component of a business, a partner who focuses on providing flawless services. Being able to thoroughly look at client’s needs, exploit research data, design effective offline & online communications and PR solutions based on excellent communication techniques, while exploiting the dynamic world of interaction between new media and the audience.

We can all realize the dramatic change of the way businesses operate, along with their demands and needs when it comes to choosing a Public Relations agency. The audience is now more sceptical towards the messages they receive, a fact that calls for the need for businesses to change. To become bold, honest, transparent, to have a clear message and appealing content. Companies need to create a special bond with their audience and let it know, that they ‘pay it forward’ by giving back to the society.

As a PR agency we owe to be constantly aligned with the trends as society restructures. To operate as the ‘catalysts’ for our clients, to bridge the gap between them and their audience with creativity at all communication levels, using all available tactics and channels. A strategic eye, specific targeting, high quality services and efficient use of new means of communication, are a few of the key requirements a business expects from a specialized pr practitioner.

The communication market has made very significant changes in recent years and is continuing to shift towards a more integrated model, requiring companies to ensure an integrated approach to paid, owned, shared and earned media. As Public Relations professionals we are faced with a constant challenge: we need to constantly evolve, understand the changing needs and respond to them with creativity, strategic thinking and efficiency. We must think before our clients, for our clients. We need to take risks, overturn the data and act as their driving force.

With the business environment constantly changing, services such as internal communication are now imperative. After restructuring plans or administrative realignments, the management of ‘in house’ issues and crises are vital for a company, since it boosts their workforce and cultures professional efficiency. At the same time, the speed at which information moves due to social media and digital media, along with the increasing use of new media, multiply the need for digital PR communication, native content creation, social media management, and relationship development with influencers or even celebrity endorsement.

In the core of it all lies strategic thinking, targeted communication and tailored made actions for the brand’s audience. That is of course, if you are in business with a specialized PR agency that can make it happen.

For please visit:  www.prpartners.com.cy

Paphos is once again in the lead as the most popular district for overseas buyers from Europe and Non Europeans by 40, 2% in comparison to Limassol which follows with 29,8%. Larnaca is 3rd with 14,1% and  lastly Famagusta with  11, 4 % and Nicosia with  just 5,5 %

During the first four months of 2018, a total of 1,410 property sales contracts have been deposited by overseas buyers, with 413 deposited by EU nationals and 997 by non-EU nationals. The total number of contracts for the sale of property deposited at Land Registry Offices has risen 38% to 2,784 compared to the 2,011 deposited during the first four months of 2017.

The number of property sales contracts deposited at Land Registry offices across the Republic of Cyprus during April 2018 rose 23 per cent compared to April 2017 according to official figures published by the Department of Land and Surveys. This follows increases of 23% in March, 46% in February, and 64% in January.
The figures show a continuing improvement in the economic conditions, coupled with government measures, such as the Citizenship by Investment Scheme plus the banks are now in a better position to grant loans to those buying property.

Paphos has been modernized and upgraded, reforming its urban identity and image to become a competitive destination and an attractive place for foreign investors.
Over the past few years, Paphos has reached the level of other large cities of technologically advanced countries, offering residents and visitors new, modern and innovative prospects.  The restructuring into a modern, contemporary and smart city has contributed towards the total improvement to the quality of life, the improved efficiency of services provided and at the same time has met all its functional requirements.

Paphos seems to be amongst other elite new and trendy cities, emerging as an increasingly attractive destination. The connection of Paphos as the Birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite enhances its glory as the new, modern, smart and vibrant city of the Mediterranean where its contemporary architectural and urban gems rank it amongst the modern cities of the 21st Century.

An impressive inauguration ceremony on Tuesday May 15^th marked the official opening of the new ultra-modern Ayia Napa Marina sales offices, in the presence of the Ayia Napa Mayor, Mr Yiannis Karousos and CEO of ΜΜ Makronisos Marina Ltd, Mr. Stavros Caramondanis.

Overlooking the deep blue, and within walking distance from the impressive Ayia Napa Marina construction site, the new sales offices give visitors the chance to look at photos and videos bringing the work to life. Visitors also have the chance to get better acquainted with all information on project specifications, while watching the real time development of the work.

As characteristically expressed by Ayia Napa Mayor, Mr. Karousos: “The Ayia Napa Marina development project is one of the most important investments in Ayia Napa. It is a project that not only upgrades the region and the national tourism product, but also, acts as a focal attraction point and facilitates the development of the local economy.”

CEO of ΜΜ Makronisos Marina Ltd, Mr. Stavros Caramondanis, expressed his satisfaction with the rapid progression of construction works and further noted: “Through a series of successful promotional activities, this important project has already gained an international reputation as

a future destination of quality tourism, attracting growing interest from investors and buyers. More than 55% of the project’s East Tower has already been sold, and soon, the Marina is expected to welcome its first boats and first visitors to its premises. ”

The recent inauguration ceremony culminated with the donation of three electronic cars to the Ayia Napa Mayor, as part of wider efforts by the Ayia Napa Marina to promote the protection of the environment.

 Information about the project

Ideally located between the beaches of Ayia Thekla and Makronisos, the Ayia Napa Marina will offer 190 spacious luxury apartments in two impressive towers, 29 luxury villas, a marina with significant mooring capacity and world class facilities for 600 yachts, a shipyard, and a series of select shops and restaurants offering top class services and amenities for those living in, and visiting, the marina.

Larnaca, Cyprus – Cyprus Airways announces the launch of ticket sales for flights from Larnaca to Chania, for July and August 2018. Direct flights from Larnaca to Chania will begin on 14^th of July 2018. Cyprus Airways will connect Larnaca with Chania, twice a week, every Tuesday and Saturday.

“We are excited to add Chania to our network for the months of July and August.  Chania is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in Greece and a very popular summer destination for the Cypriots” stated Natalia Popova, Chief Commercial Officer of Cyprus Airways.

In addition to the two weekly flights to Chania, Cyprus Airways is also increasing frequency to Athens for July and August, from 4 weekly flights to 5 weekly flights.  The company will be flying to Athens every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday.

Cyprus Airways offers two categories of fares, Basic and Flex. The Flex offers additional services, such as 23kg baggage allowance, seat selection etc, giving customers the option to customize their travel experience.

Return ticket fares from Larnaca to Chania start from EUR 79.00, including all taxes and surcharges.  Passengers can book their flights through cyprusairways.com, Cyprus Airways Call Center (National toll free 8000 8111 or international on +357 24000053) or through their travel agent.

Customers can visit Company’s website on cyprusairways.com to view the full flight schedule of all Cyprus Airways destinations.

Laiko Manufacturing and LaikoCosmos Trading hosted a warm and emotional event last week, to celebrate 70 successful years of Kafes Laikou.  A coffee that has become an intrinsic part of our tradition and has been rightfully named ‘Cyprus’ Golden Coffee’ in recognition of its superior taste and the aroma from the finest blend in Cyprus.

Guests were invited to travel back in time, at the event held at Artos Foundation in Nicosia, with a unique collection of vintage memorabilia from the last 70 years. Retro advertisements and black & white photos, portraying milestones from the history of the brand, were exhibited alongside an impressive personal collection of works by artist Maria Aristidou, Brand Ambassador for Kafes Laikou. The internationally renowned artist uses an individual technique with brewed coffee as the raw material to create incredible works of art.

The new TV campaign for Kafes Laikou was also met with great enthusiasm on its first official screening.

Guests were warmly welcomed by the Kafes Laikou family, who through this event shared the passion, love and pride with which Kafes Laikou has been made for the last 70 years.

Laiko Manufacturing and LaikoCosmos Trading thanked their valued customers for keeping Kafes Laikou in pole position for the last 70 years and shared their vision to bring ‘Moments of Life, Moments of Laikou’ to them for many years to come.

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In view of the forthcoming World Cup, Alphamega hypermarkets will soon be launching their new brand ambassador campaign with the internationally renowned Argentine defender, Roberto Ayala. At a press conference held on Monday May 21 the veteran national Argentina footballer was the honorary guest. He expressed his joy at this collaboration to be held in the framework of the ‘Food & Ball’ campaign.

Roberto Ayala came to Cyprus to shoot the campaign’s TV advertising, and his fans will have the opportunity to see him, take a photo with him and get an autograph on May 24 and 25 at the hypermarkets in Engomi and the central shop in Limassol where he will be present.

During this year’s World Cup, which will be held in Russia in June, Alphamega hypermarkets will offer the audience special offers for products. These offers will be published in brochures at all supermarket stores.

Exclusively for Alphamega hypermarkets and for the Food & Ball campaign, Flipper Ball was built, a game that will be moved around selected supermarkets so that young and old can play and compete. Their favourite footballers, members of the ‘Goal in Life’ association, who will visit the supermarkets will play with them. The winners of the game will win footballs and T-shirts with the campaign logo. Even more surprises will be waiting for those who are in the hypermarkets during the World Cup!

Alphamega hypermarket marketing director Giorgos Theodotou said he was thrilled with the new advertising campaign, stressing that the collaboration with Roberto Ayala is a particularly happy venture for the hypermarkets.

“It is our honour that a player of such a magnitude came to Cyprus to participate in our new television advertising. We hope he enjoys it as much as we do and that he will visit our country again,” he said.

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, and Formula 1®, the pinnacle of motorsport, today announced they have renewed and expanded their partnership until the end of 2022.

Emirates has been an F1 Global Partner since 2013, and the renewed agreement will see the airline enjoy an expanded branding and consumer activation presence at over 15 races on the FIA Formula One World Championship calendar across Europe, Asia, Australia, North America and South America.

The renewed agreement, which came into effect at the start of the current 2018 season in March with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, also includes Emirates being the Title Sponsor of today’s Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, and for the German Grand Prix in Hockenheim from 20-22 July.

“There’s an excellent fit between Emirates and Formula 1, from the global extent of our destination network and the cities in which races take place, to the focus on innovation and technology that underpins the sport and our approach to the development of products and services for our customers. Formula 1’s global appeal also provides us with an opportunity to share in the passion of the millions of fans who follow the sport, many of whom are our customers,” said Thierry Antinori, Emirates Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer.

Sean Bratches, Managing Director, Commercial Operations at Formula 1 said, “We are delighted to renew our long-term global partnership with Emirates, a loyal friend and supporter of our sport since 2013. We have embarked on a new and innovative chapter in the history of Formula, and we are happy to share the journey and the excitement with such a renowned and leading brand as Emirates.”

As a Global Partner of Formula 1® for the next five years, Emirates will have extensive trackside branding at the races, hospitality for guests at the Paddock Club, interactive fan engagement activities at F1 Fan Zones and F1 Fan Festivals at selected races, as well as Supercar Hot Laps at eight races and branding across digital media assets. Emirates will also offer its Skywards members the opportunity to use their miles to bid for exclusive VIP experiences at the various races.

Emirates currently flies to more than 155 destinations across six continents from its Dubai hub, and is able to connect fans to most of the countries hosting races, including Austria, UK, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Hungary, Singapore, Japan, Australia, Russia, Brazil and the US. The full race calendar can be found here.

About Emirates

The Emirates story started in 1985 when it launched operations with just two aircraft, while has been proudly serving the Cypriot market since 1994. Today, Emirates flies the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering our customers the comforts of the latest wide-body aircraft in the skies. The modern and efficient fleet connect Cyprus and Dubai in a daily basis, while the airline’s global network consists over 155 destinations in 84 countries.

For more information about Emirates, bookings and terms or use, please visit our official website: https://www.emirates.com/cy

Nasos Ktorides, CEO of the Quantum Cable that will extend from Asia across the Mediterranean and on to the US, has received full support from the Prime Minister of Gibraltar for the “massive data highway” project to pass by the “Rock” where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.

During a two-day visit, at the invitation of the Gibraltar PM, CEO Ktorides had a meeting with the Chief Minister, the Hon. Fabian Picardo and they discussed future development plans of the fiber-optic high-speed data cable project.

“This project has my full support and we will explore how the two ends of the Mediterranean Sea can come closer through this project,” PM Picardo said after the meeting.

The Gibraltarian prime minister also expressed interest for the cable to land at Gibraltar and boost the state’s telecoms capacity.

Also present at the meetings was the Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Jose Garcia, and a separate meeting followed with Sir Joe Bossano, the Minister for Economic Development and Telecommunications where detailed discussions focused on establishing a data centre that would support the Quantum Cable at the two ends – Gibraltar and Cyprus.

Quantum Cable will connect Cyprus with Israel, Cyprus with Crete and Attica in Greece, and extend further to Italy, France and Bilbao, Spain reaching the 160 Tbps MAREA submarine cable stretching 6,600km across the Atlantic Ocean from Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA, to Bilbao, Spain.

The cable will have the capacity to handle up to 60 per cent of the world’s internet traffic at peak time or enough capacity to handle tens of millions high-definition video conference calls between Asia and Europe at the same time.

“As the project developer of the super-fast subsea data cable that has reached a mature stage and is proceeding according to schedule, we welcome discussions with the government of Gibraltar and all stakeholders along the route that would be interested to be involved in the Quantum Cable,” said Ktorides.

The Quantum Cable, with a capacity of up to 160Tbps will be laid at depths of more than 3,000 metres in parallel with the EuroAsia Interconnector and its operation is expected to commence simultaneously with the 2,000MW EuroAsia Interconnector “electricity highway”, thus achieving tremendous economies of scale.

The entire cost of the project is estimated at US$200 million which will be undertaken by Quantum.

The Quantum Cable system will be in operation by October 2020.

“The Quantum Cable will have enough capacity to handle tens of millions of high-definition video conference calls between Asia and Europe at the same time, thus supporting the exponentially growing demand from Asia and Europe for high speed, secure connections for Cloud providers, Data centres and Online services,” Ktorides explained.

“Existing subsea cables in the Mediterranean currently have an average capacity of 3-4 Tbps, while the Quantum Cable will be up to 40 times faster,” he added.

The MAREA project was initiated by Facebook, Microsoft and TE SubCom, a TE Connectivity Ltd. company and an industry pioneer in undersea communications technology.

Andrew Heath Appointed Country Manager for Spain

• Brings 16 years’ offshore market experience to this major new initiative.
• Heath heads up expanded Spanish team to meet this fast-growing client base.
• ‘Seeing how forward-thinking Woodbrook are, I knew this was the match for me.’
• Second key announcement following Mark Slevin’s appointment as Country Manager in Cyprus.
• Woodbrook’s calculated 2017 growth leads to strong 2018 growth.

Woodbrook Group, a leading independent financial advisory and corporate services company with offices across Europe, Asia and the Middle-East, has signalled major plans for expansion in 2018.

Two appointments in Europe in as many weeks have seen the continued emergence of a year plan featuring strong growth. Signified by the appointment of Mark Slevin in Cyprus now, hot on the heels of that initiative, Andrew Heath is to head up a greatly expanded operation in Spain. Centred in Marbella, its focus will be on expatriate business and personal needs which are considerable and rapidly expanding.

Andrew, who has 16 years in the offshore market and a wealth of experience in helping clients to manage their wealth, said of his appointment: “Seeing how compliant, customer focused and forward thinking Woodbrook is, I knew this was the match for me.”

He added: “Europe has a fast-growing expat population, and Spain and Portugal are very popular locations for expats. Expatriates go for the sun, the way of life and to set up businesses. But it can be so easy for them to forget about protecting their financial futures, and that’s where our experience will help.”

Coupled with this are the needs to be met of new businesses opening daily along the Costas as the economic upturn leads to an invigorated tourism, commercial and property market. Andrew will head up the expanding Marbella office and build on Woodbrook’s strong reputation for advising on many financial and business matters and helping clients to make the right decisions.

Spain’s potential is also indicative of similar opportunities across the continent. As Country Manager, Andrew will help Woodbrook to develop and service its growing Spanish client base and continued development within the European market.

Woodbrook’s expertise in both holistic financial planning to the individual and corporate fiduciary service, their advice on many financial and business matters, helping clients make the right decisions, has proved fruitful to their own expansion. The group has laid the groundwork for growth in calculated initiatives last year which have culminated in strong growth coupled with signs of more to come.

Woodbrook Group CEO Michael Doherty said: “We have been very calculated in our growth in 2017. Now with our acquisitions and the outstanding new members who have joined our team, the future is extremely positive. We will continue our strong growth through 2018.”

Woodbrook Group, regulated by CySEC, has expertise in investment and Wealth Planning, QROPS, SIPPS, Trust and Trustee Services, Accounting, Audit and Legal services, Company Formation and Administration, Taxation, Cross-Border Structuring, Domiciliation and Corporate Services among many others.

Another Leptos Seafront development has been sold out due to the fact that Paphos has become again the new attraction for European and Russian buyers and investors who express their preference mainly in seafront luxury properties

Leptos Kissonerga Beach Villas is a newly completed beachfront luxury project with exclusive Villas by Leptos Estates in Paphos, located in a unique seafront area, midway between the picturesque Paphos Harbour and magnificent Coral Bay.

The project is set amongst banana plantations and walnut groves, offering stunning views to the sea and miraculous sunsets, an ideal location for all year-round enjoyment and relaxation. In this new special seafront collection of exclusive homes, you can experience true Mediterranean living through the mix of design and architecture with traditional features together with contemporary modern comfort and construction. The architectural design and construction level guarantees an exclusive way of life by the sea.
Leptos Estates, the specialists in seafront and beachfront villas on the Island, offer amazing properties in prime locations, contemporary designs and spectacular views which are second to none. Kissonerga Beach Villas provides an idyllic lifestyle for discerning people in enriched Mediterranean style with special attention to detail and quality.

Microsoft participated successfully at the industry-specific iFX EXPO International which took place in Limassol on 22-24 May. Attending the expo were professionals from the Forex sector and Microsoft presented its industry-specific solutions and technologies.

Attendees were able to discover Azure, Microsoft’s Cloud, and solutions developed specifically for the Forex industry. Microsoft’s new technologies and services offer, amongst others, scalability, security and cost effectiveness, and can assist in the management and optimization of companies’ business-critical operations, such as the MT4/5 trading platforms, disaster recovery, CRM and website maintenance and promotion.

On 23rd May in the Speaker Hall, Mr Constantinos Kattirdjis, Senior Partner Development Manager for Microsoft Greece, Cyprus & Malta, delivered a keynote speech entitled ‘Growing Your Trading Business with Cloud Technologies (Study Cases & Best Practices)’. The audience discovered how cloud and digital transformation affects current global Forex trends and insights were provided into how Microsoft technologies are being used by the Fintech and Forex industries. Mr Kattirdjis also shared best practices used by leading companies to harness the latest technologies.

With the participation of more than 130 delegates, the “CFO Conference: Leadership Beyond Finance” was held on Wednesday, 23^rd May at the Amathus Hotel in Limassol, organised by World Trade Center Cyprus on behalf of ICPAC and its CFO Committee.

The objectives of the conference covered three broad topics: the role of the CFO in a leadership position, the CFO being technology-smart and how to leverage these two attributes for the overall good of the business.

At the beginning of the conference, the President of the CFO committee of ICPAC, Mr George Hadjineophytou, welcomed the delegates and speakers.  Following a successful completion of the conference, he extended his warm appreciation to the organiser by saying: “on behalf of ICPAC and its CFO committee, I would like to thank everyone for their efforts in making our conference a success.  The conference was well organised and attended and the immediate feedback from the attendees was overall very positive.  We had an excellent team of presenters and panellists, who shared their own experiences with the participants, making the conference very engaging.  WTC Cyprus took care of absolutely everything, down to the last detail, ensuring that the conference ran without a glitch.  I believe that this is the start of an annual event which CFOs will look forward to attending.’’

In his welcoming speech, Mr Mufid Sukkar, Director of WTC Cyprus addressed the fact that WTC Cyprus team was very proud to take on the challenge of organising the first CFO Conference on behalf of the CFO Committee of ICPAC.  Mr M. Sukkar said: “our objective has always been to mount a professional event that would engage the audience of largely CFO professionals from a leadership perspective.  This objective dictated the type of speakers and panellists we invited to share their immense experiences and knowledge.’’

After the conference, Mr M. Sukkar remarked: “I am very happy with the overall organisation of the event and the feedback we have received so far has been glowing and very complimentary.  We thank the CFO Committee of ICPAC and we look forward to further cooperating with them in the future.”

Mr  Jeremy Drew, Managing Partner of Alto Resources UK who was one of the keynote speakers in the conference covering the topic of “Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling” expressed his delight in participating in the event and said: “I was very pleasantly surprised by the entire event but in particular, the blend of the various speakers which was a masterstroke whereby each speaker covered “Leadership Beyond Finance” from different angles but we all converged on to the same point as though we synchronised with one other before-hand; and I assure you we never met before the conference.”

The portfolio of Speakers included Mr Peter Andreou, Master of Ceremonies (Founder and Managing Director of PeopleAchieve, Ms Talita Ferreira (CEO and Founder of Authentic Changing Solutions), Mr Ray Soudah (Founding partner and chairman of MilleniumAssociates), Mr George Giaglis (Director of the Institute For the Future-IFF), Mr Christopher Zenios (Founder & COO Alcaeus Labs ), Mr Jeremy Drew (Managing Partner of Alto Resources UK), Mr George Mountis (Managing Partner at Delfi Partners & Co), Mr Ioannis Malios (Governance, Risk and Compliance at Nest Group), Mr Gregorios Themistocleous (Head of Cyber Security Risk, Assurance & Compliance Services).

Mr Christos Christodoulou, CEO, Trust Insurance Cyprus (Conference Title Sponsor) said: “extremely empowering conference and networking opportunity that inspired and motivated the participants to uncover the CFO role and his/her partnership with the CEO as the absolute vehicle driving the organization to success. Trust Insurance Cyprus was delighted and honoured to be the leading sponsor of this event that rightfully aims to become the annual event on leadership.”  

Contact Information:

World Trade Center Cyprus | Marketing Department

Tel. 25 588116, Fax: 25 588299 | Email: marketing@wtccy.org | www.wtccy.org

Leroy Merlin shared ideas, advice and solutions on Wednesday with guests from the media during a delightful breakfast at a specially designed summer setting within the store.

Cyprus store manager Demetris Katopodis and marketing manager Loukia Vasiliadis presented the new store catalogue called Project, which is full of ideas, solutions and a wide range of new products based on the latest summer trends that will perfectly fit into every space. The attendees were also informed about the store’s new pick up points, a service which allows customers to choose between 100 points around the island from where they can pick up their order.

Leroy Merlin’s interior designer Stathis Lambrou then presented the new styles and market trends to change or refresh the colour of our walls.

During his welcome speech, Katopodis mentioned Leroy Merlin’s upward course in Cyprus and commented on the fact that the store has had steady development and met its goals. In order to continue to offer the public the solutions that meet ever-increasing demands for top quality service and range of products, Leroy Merlin Cyprus will set the bar even higher.

A special offer running until Sunday June 2 under the name Home Celebrations is dedicated to those who love aesthetically pleasing spaces and are always on the look out for new DIY opportunities, but also to customers who are looking for the right time to refresh their space.

On June 2 there will be an event in store with a special programme and many surprises. There will be a number of activities for children, live presentations by well-known people in the home-making industry while everyone who visits the store until then will enjoy a ten per cent discount on all products and have the opportunity to take part in competitions and win gifts and gift vouchers.

For more information on the Home Celebrations period, visit: https://www.leroymerlin.com.cy/giorti-spitiou-2018

Leroy Merlin Cyprus is open from Monday to Saturday from 8am until 8pm and on Sundays from 10am until 7pm.

PwC Cyprus announces the appointment of Mr Charalambos Sergiou and Mr Michalis Stephanou as Partners in Tax Advisory Services and Advisory Services respectively. The two new Partners will take up official duties from 1 July 2018.

Charalambos Sergiou is a graduate of the University of Cyprus with a bachelor degree in Finance (BSc Finance). He is a Fellow Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus. He has wide experience in international tax structuring and in dealing with tax related issues arising from cross border and M&A transactions. He is working with various multinational groups specializing in financial services, real estate and oil and gas sectors. During the period 2012-2013 Pambos was seconded to PwC Russia for more than a year acting as the Head of the Cypriot Tax Desk in International Tax Structuring Services Team of PwC Moscow. He is also part of the core M&A and ITS team of PwC Cyprus where he is participating in various deals structuring, due diligences, price determination and tax structuring projects.

Michalis Stephanou is a holder of a bachelor degree in Business Administration from the University of Cyprus. He joined PwC Cyprus in 2004 and he is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. He is part of the Advisory department of PwC since 2008 following a one-year secondment in PwC Athens where he specialised in the provision of financial due diligence services. He is a member of the European Portfolio Advisory Group of PwC and has worked on a number of assignments in the banking sector in Cyprus and abroad. Michalis has served in the Financial Services and Consulting Services committees of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus.

Laiko Manufacturing and LaikoCosmos Trading hosted a warm and emotional event last week, to celebrate 70 successful years of Kafes Laikou.  A coffee that has become an intrinsic part of our tradition and has been rightfully named ‘Cyprus’ Golden Coffee’ in recognition of its superior taste and the aroma from the finest blend in Cyprus.

Guests were invited to travel back in time, at the event held at Artos Foundation in Nicosia, with a unique collection of vintage memorabilia from the last 70 years. Retro advertisements and black & white photos, portraying milestones from the history of the brand, were exhibited alongside an impressive personal collection of works by artist Maria Aristidou, Brand Ambassador for Kafes Laikou. The internationally renowned artist uses an individual technique with brewed coffee as the raw material to create incredible works of art.

The new TV campaign for Kafes Laikou was also met with great enthusiasm on its first official screening.

Guests were warmly welcomed by the Kafes Laikou family, who through this event shared the passion, love and pride with which Kafes Laikou has been made for the last 70 years.

Laiko Manufacturing and LaikoCosmos Trading thanked their valued customers for keeping Kafes Laikou in pole position for the last 70 years and shared their vision to bring ‘Moments of Life, Moments of Laikou’ to them for many years to come.

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*Cyprus offers first-class financial services on the world economic stage
*Government’s legislation strategy attracts international investments
*Corporate or individual, a Cyprus tax base will save you significantly

Cyprus has a rich history, great climate and outstanding scenery, a veritable Mediterranean haven for holidaymakers. But it is also a significant and growing player on the world economic stage – offering financial and investment opportunities as glowing as its cultural past.

For millennia Cyprus’ strategic position gave it strong trade links to three continents. Its landmass might be traversed in ninety minutes flat, but it has two international airports, two ports and trade, actual or intellectual, is its chief bias. Now it is a service-based economy, but with the vision of the ancient mariners.

The economic future and current commercial possibilities are forged in a dynamic approach that has seen its reputation as an international business hub, with strong competitive advantages, matched by a willing efficient state and legal system that marries with the entrepreneurial instinct and vision of its business sector.

The practicalities of business start-up, growth and continuance are met with a full understanding that a small island can have a definite advantage over bigger European nations with unyielding and unwieldy bureaucratic structures.

Koullis Mettis is a living example of Cypriot world vision, qualified through top UK universities in Investment; he spent the past fifteen years managing the global financial picture for businesses and individuals. He acquired an understanding he summarises as:

‘Do things the right way the first time.’

His expertise is pivotal to potential investors, on a local and global level, and underpins the processes of Mutual Trust, of which he is COO. Mutual Trust, part of the Woodbrook Group, is an international Trust and Corporate Services provider that serves the cross-border financial structuring needs of high-net-worth individuals, professional advisors, financial institutions and companies.

Mutual Trust originated in the early 1970s as a family vision and, like the Cypriot vision, has grown into a company that serves clients for generations in with relevant knowledge and expertise almost anywhere in the world to assist cross-border investment, trade and wealth planning. Its acumen marries with the island’s approach, as Mettis explains:

‘The majority of our clients are not based in Cyprus but trade through Cyprus globally.’

What does this mean? You don’t have to set foot in Cyprus to run your company through it. If you do, you will be offered taxation levels that invite profits and dividends, not prevent them. So if you run your business through Cyprus, without ever setting foot on the cleanest beaches in Europe, how much do you as an investor stand to save on your tax bills?

‘A huge amount,’ Mettis states simply. ‘In terms of attitudes and opinions, the corporate sector is welcomed and facilitated. There are big tax advantages.’

His rundown of the history of the island, from achieving independence from Britain in 1960, takes in two financial crashes – one global, one national – and sketches an older, wiser market with a government focused on foreign investment. He has witnessed and facilitated first hand, a marked increase in company registrations – approaching 30% more than the pre-2013 levels. Applicants are from all over the world with Europeans, Israelis and Americans spearheading the direct foreign investment:

‘2013’s fiscal crisis in Greece, coupled with the 2008 global crisis, has created an efficient and more mature market that operates with an element of realism. Services are now offered at the right price. Cyprus, for the foreign investor and the resident, is the right place at the right time.’

Why? Mettis cites a keen 12.5% corporation tax and the Government’s pro-business approach. A new tax scheme, increased transparency in the legal system which is focused on the removal of internal and international trade barriers, together with a simplified administration have led to strong GDP growth with more forecast.

It has, in short, become the Singapore of Europe, offering a gateway to the entire European region and strong links to Asia and Africa. At the same time, it exceeds the possibilities of the South East Asian business hub by offering a naturalisation programme enabling investors to become citizens, through an accessible and affordable process.

These new incentives, forged in the fires of crisis, have created opportunities and increased activity in all industries from tourism to trade. EU passport holders are entitled to enter, reside, study and work in the European Union, and all countries linked to the European Economic Area. Naturalisation can take as little as three months. With the Cypriot passport being regarded as the ninth best to hold in the world, the reasons for this are manifest in investment potential as well as visa-free travel to almost 170 countries and access to residency in an EU state.

When Mettis meets clients first, he finds they have heard the rumours why Cyprus has more to offer than a sunny fortnight, and he then provides solid reasons. A financial future that is sun-soaked thanks to a small island with a global outlook. The conclusion of business clients is if you want to make certain that a system supports your initiatives, choose a Cypriot base to invest and invoice from. You will certainly get more than a suntan in return.

His team is on hand to make the investment process one that will deal with all aspects of the setup and ensure maximum tax benefits to you.

How Cyprus Supports Investors and Incomes

• Wide network double tax treaties. Corporation tax 12.5%. EU approved Tax Regime.
• Exemption provisions on income emanate from dividends, interest, and sales of security.
• Transparent legal, banking and government systems all supporting business.
• English and Greek national languages. A highly skilled workforce with a global
• Excellent infrastructure coupled with cross-border engagement and provision.
• Stable political and social structure focused on long-term, offering short-term
• Strong geographical position and lifestyle opportunities second to none.

Leptos Estates introduces its new development, the magnificent “Aegean Blue Apartments” in Chania, Crete. The project is located directly on the beach- front in the beautiful and historic area of Maleme, offering excellent sea views from all residences.

It is characterized by minimal design, modern colors from the Mediterranean palette and affordable prices, making “Aegean Blue Apartments” the ideal investment for anyone looking either for a holiday home, a permanent residence or a profitable acquisition. At the same time, landscaped gardens and a beautiful swimming pool perfectly complement the development. A wide selection of ground or first floor apartments are available. All properties offer two large bedrooms.

Crete and especially Chania is the perfect place for a profitable investment and relaxing vacation.  The Venetian port of the town is the most characteristic spot of the Island. Crete and especially Chania are considered to be one of the most beautiful locations in the Mediterranean if not the entire world.

Leptos Estates offers in the most beautiful Greek Islands a variety of quality properties including holiday homes, luxury beach front villas, spacious apartments and hotel resorts. The company also provides full property management and rental service.

For further information for a property inspection trip please contact Leptos Estates – Greece on Tel: (0030) 28210 20830, Email: infochania@LeptosEstates.gr

The telecommunications race in Cyprus is “heating up”, as the needs of the Cypriots are constantly increased both in terms of speed and reliability. In this race, the customers demand more from the telecoms companies – they want more speed, wider coverage, and better prices. Mobile internet becomes more of a necessity in daily basis, as the available services multiply, and mobiles are used for everything aspect of daily life, from video-calls to watching TV.

In this race, MTN is a clear stand out. MTN has been able to cover 93% of the population of the free areas in Cyprus with its hyper-fast 4G network. As the company has been increasing its customer base every year and is responding to every challenge set by the customers, be it better coverage, higher speeds, lower prices.

At the moment, the company has the largest 4G coverage in Cyprus and after its recent upgrade in infrastructure enjoys the most advanced network among the competition, which has allowed the company to offer the best possible experience, at the most competitive prices.

The completion of one of the biggest private investments ever made in Cyprus in the network infrastructure has given the company the ability to double the internet speed of all their customers without any additional cost. The total investment amount reached more than €23m and is projected to help raise Cyprus close to the top of the European countries in respect to the mobile network speed and reliability, whereas in the previous year Cyprus was among the last countries in all the international studies in the telecommunications sector.

Customer needs are at the core of the MTN philosophy and the daily strive for quality user experience is a reality, something that anyone who has talked to the call center or has visited one of the many MTN shops scattered around Cyprus can attest to.

Cyprus aims to become an even bigger international business center, something that cannot be done today without a competitive telecommunications industry that will serve businesses and individuals at the highest standard. MTN has been a leader and a prime pioneer in this field, as it has become the biggest and best private telecommunications company in Cyprus and its philosophy can only lead them to bigger and better things in the future.

As anyone will tell you, the last year has seen an undeniable growth in Cyprus’ technology sector – with foreign tech companies opening new offices in Cyprus and local start-ups offering exciting new propositions. But not all tech companies are new to the island. Amdocs, a large multinational company in the telecoms industry and the largest tech company in Cyprus, has actually maintained a development centre in Limassol since 1997.

Natalé Mastoroudes, Talent Acquisition Partner for Amdocs, tells us all about it.
Who or what is Amdocs and what do you do?
Amdocs is a global company, with over 26,000 employees worldwide. We are at the heart of the telecommunications industry – working with giants such as AT&T, Vodafone, BT and T-Mobile, helping them create an amazing new world for you where technology is being used in amazing new ways every single day.

Natalé Mastoroudes

Amdocs’ customers span multiple lines of business, including wireless, wireline, broadband, cable and satellite services and mobile financial services providers. Our offerings support a range of technologies such as cloud, IT modernisation and open source, while working in DevOps. We are leading the digital revolution and creating real impact on the communications industry.

What can you tell us about Amdocs Cyprus?
Our Cyprus Development Centre (DVCC), was established in Limassol in 1997 – so we’ve been in Cyprus for 21 years! We currently employ 600+ people. With 21 different nationalities, we are also a very international site and our employees support clients around the world.

In Amdocs Cyprus the atmosphere is warm, friendly and relaxed, offering many social activities beyond work, making you feel that you have joined a great big family. For example, next week is our Move for Health Week and we mark it with a number of activities that are designed to get us away from our desks and moving around – yoga, Zumba, paintball, judo and fencing are just some of them!

We heard that you’re currently expanding your Cyprus office. Is that true?
Yes! We are actively recruiting for a wide range of roles. As part of our growth plan, we are looking for talented IT professionals who want a unique experience working in a family-like atmosphere, while being part of a global company. Right now, we’re in the middle of our graduate recruitment and we’re focusing on hiring a number of recent IT graduates to join us by the end of the month.

So why should someone join Amdocs?
At Amdocs, we use our imagination to design a better future and our experience to deliver it. It’s innovation in practice! Joining us you will open yourself to a world of opportunities for learning, career development and working in a multi-cultural environment. Adding to that, Amdocs’ client base includes over 350 customers in more than 85 countries, so the opportunities for travel are endless!

Find out more information on https://jobs.amdocs.com or join the Graduate Open Evening taking place at Amdocs Limassol offices on Thursday 7th June, 5.30-8pm.

Alphamega hypermarkets are offering something fresh and organic for the new season: Alphamega environmental care. These new multipurpose bags are made from recyclable fabric and are perfect for women and children. Each one has its own style, is handmade, strong, high quality and is made without the use of chemicals.

The new Alphamega hypermarket campaign creates a different way of recycling to extend the life of various fabrics that would otherwise have been thrown away. In this way, each bag gives new life to the fabric.

These collectable bags with an ecological character are part of the social responsibility actions of the hypermarket.

Part of the money collected from the sale of the bags will be donated to the women’s club Idaliades. In this way they have given work to women, revived traditional professions, such as sewing, as well as financially assisting poor and retired women.

Referring to this initiative, the manager of the corporate social responsibility programme Elina Theodotou said “the hypermarket has chosen this creative way to inform the public about the benefits of these reusable bags and generally about the benefits of recycling materials for the good of the environment.”

Representative of Idaliades stressed how important it is to raise awareness on such issues, and they particularly thanked Alphamega hypermarkets for the financial support they offered to the women’s club.

The collectible bags can be found on special stands in all Alphamega hypermarkets.