Business View Caribbean - Mar 2024

CSS Ltd.’s proactive engagement with youth and educational institutions is a critical strategy. Ali praises the government’s efforts to upgrade youth centers,which aim to equip less academically inclined students with vocational skills.“They train plumbers and electricians, including those interested in home economics, cooking classes, air-conditioned farming, and all kinds of things,” he describes, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of these programs. EMBRACING SUSTAINABILITY AND EXPANSION IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY As global attention shifts towards sustainability and renewable energy, the construction sector finds itself at a pivotal juncture, balancing traditional practices with the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Ali addresses the gradual yet determined stride towards sustainability within the Trinidadian context and CSS Ltd.’s proactive stance on embracing renewable energy practices. “It’s coming along very slowly, but we are on the path to sustainable and renewable energy,” Ali begins, acknowledging the sluggish but steady progression towards green energy solutions in Trinidad. His commentary sheds light on the broader challenges faced by the region, notably the disparity between the low cost of conventional electricity and the incentives designed to foster a shift towards renewable energy sources. Ali proudly notes CSS Ltd.’s longstanding affiliation with the United States Green Council and the company’s focus on adopting sustainable practices. “We have attended many conventions and seminars. What we have done as an organization is take that responsibility and transfer it into our organization,”he states, detailing efforts to incorporate renewable and recycled products within the confines of Trinidad’s legal framework. ENHANCING EXPERTISE AND EXPANDING HORIZONS THROUGH STRATEGIC COLLABORATIONS Strategic partnerships extend a company’s capabilities and imbue projects with diverse expertise and insights. For Construction Services and Supplies Ltd (CSS Ltd.), selective collaborations have maintained its competitive edge and ensured quality and innovative projects. Ali singles out Durable Slate as a pivotal collaborator, shedding light on the symbiotic relationship between the two entities. “We have maintained an excellent relationship with and partnered with Durable Slate for a couple of years,” he expresses. Ali elaborates on the nature of the collaboration with Durable Slate, noting its significance beyond a single project.“They partnered with us with the Red House roof, and we continue to consult with them on major projects concerning roofing material and, basically, that line of work,” he explains. This ongoing consultancy with Durable Slate shows how CSS Ltd. leverages expert advice and specialized skills to ensure its projects meet and exceed expectations. As CSS Ltd. eyes expansion into Guyana, the partnership with Durable Slate gains even more relevance. Ali outlines the unique challenges and opportunities the Guyanese market presents, particularly in timber roofing, where Durable Slate’s expertise is invaluable. “Guyana has a lot of timber roofs. While they have specialists in Guyana, I think we will use a different technology in designing and constructing roofs with timber and associated materials,” he states. PRIORITIES AND EXPANSION PLANS As the calendar turns towards the latter part of 2024, the construction industry, like many others, starts to align its strategies and resources with the upcoming financial year’s goals and challenges. For Construction Services and Supplies Ltd., this period is not just about closing out the year firmly but also setting a foundation for sustained growth and diversification into new realms of the construction sector. Ali articulates a clear vision for CSS Ltd.’s immediate future, emphasizing expansion and diversification as central themes. “The vision for the company is to expand our services, not only in the civil works but into renewable energy, which we are doing right now,” he states, signifying a strategic shift towards embracing renewable energy projects. This pivot reflects a broader industry trend toward sustainability and acknowledges the growing importance of green 56 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03