Up to the Challenge: Russell Brill Completes IRONMAN Hamburg
Gapuma is proud to share the story of Russell Brill, our Director of Purchasing, who recently undertook one of the world’s most demanding endurance events — IRONMAN Hamburg — in support of Oak View School, a specialist institution for children with complex learning needs. Thanks to generous support from colleagues, friends, and the wider community, Russell has so far raised over £8,000, with contributions still being received via his JustGiving page. Ironman which involves a 3.8 km swim, 180 km cycle, and a full marathon — all within a single day — is widely considered the most physically demanding and gruelling challenge in sport. Over a nine-month period, Russell undertook a rigorous training programme, covering: 149 km swimming 2,935 km cycling 1,015 km running On race day, he delivered a solid and consistent performance: Within the his age category, Russell’s results placed him well in the top half of finishers, in a race known not only for its physical demands but the mental challenge it presents. At Gapuma, we believe in empowering our people to contribute beyond the workplace. Russell’s effort reminds us that commitment, endurance and purpose can combine to create meaningful change. We extend our deepest thanks to Russell for his example and to all those who have supported this initiative.
Belgrade Gears Up for Expo 2027: A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Global Recognition
29th May 2025 Belgrade is set to host Expo 2027 from 15 May to 15 August 2027, marking a significant milestone as the first world exposition in the former Yugoslavia. With the theme “Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All,” the Expo aims to showcase the unifying power of play, sport, and music in fostering global connections and innovation. The Expo is anticipated to attract over 4 million visitors and participation from more than 100 countries, positioning Serbia as a modern, innovative hub on the global stage. The event is expected to serve as a catalyst for Serbia’s economic development, with investments in infrastructure, tourism, and cultural institutions. In alignment with this national momentum, Gapuma has been expanding its business activities in Serbia and the surrounding region. Established in 2017, Gapuma Serbia focuses on the sale of grains and has recently invested in a 22,000-tonne silo distribution centre in Novi Sad, enhancing grain distribution across Serbia and Europe. This investment underscores Gapuma’s commitment to fostering trade and economic development in the region. As Serbia prepares for Expo 2027, the synergy between national initiatives and private sector investments like Gapuma’s is poised to redefine the country’s economic landscape and international image.
Jubilee Drilling Resumes: Tullow Signals Bold New Phase for Ghana’s Energy Future
28th May 2025 Tullow Ghana and its partners have announced the recommencement of drilling operations in the Jubilee Field, signalling renewed investment and long-term confidence in Ghana’s energy sector. This phased two-year programme aims to enhance production efficiency and output in one of West Africa’s most strategically important oil fields. This new campaign follows the early and cost-effective completion of Tullow’s previous four-year drilling programme, which delivered 18 new wells by December 2024—six months ahead of schedule and under budget. The operation was widely commended for its strong safety record, operational discipline, and effective project management. The new drilling effort will continue into 2026, with additional activity planned for November 2025. Tullow aims to surpass its earlier achievements by applying improved drilling technologies and management techniques. Tullow Ghana Managing Director, Jean-Médard Madama, remarked: “The restart of drilling marks a major milestone for us. It demonstrates not only our ongoing commitment to Ghana’s energy future but also our confidence in the potential of this maturing field to generate enduring value.” The Jubilee Field remains a vital contributor to Ghana’s energy output and fiscal base, even as it matures. The new campaign seeks to maximise this potential, creating opportunities across the value chain—from upstream exploration and drilling services to downstream logistics and infrastructure support. Tullow’s recent 16-day maintenance operation at Jubilee was successfully completed to upgrade systems and ensure risk mitigation ahead of renewed drilling efforts. For strategic service providers like Gapuma, this renewed activity in Ghana presents substantial contingent opportunities—particularly in supply chain resilience, logistics coordination, and value-added support to ensure sustained operational excellence.
Gapuma and Chevron Oronite Deliver: Lubricants. Insight. Impact.
27th May 2025 Gapuma Group’s GLB division, in collaboration with Chevron Oronite, recently hosted a high-impact technical seminar in Lagos, bringing together major stakeholders from across Nigeria’s lubricants industry for a week of engagement, knowledge sharing, and strategic dialogue. The main seminar, held on 20th May, saw an outstanding turnout—with over 50 delegates from 21 companies in attendance, many of whom joined despite not having confirmed in advance. Notable participants included representatives from NNPC, Total, Ammasco, Delta Lubricants, Ardova, and BESTAF, among others. Chevron Oronite’s visiting team—Daren Barnes, Benjamin Boulay, and Eric De Goustine—delivered a series of detailed and insightful presentations. The topics covered included: Chevron Oronite Global Overview Market Trends and Heavy Duty Lubricants Power Transmission Fluid / Automatic Gear Oil Passenger Car Motor Oil / Hydraulic Oil Motorcycle Oil / Tractor Hydraulic Fluid Automatic Transmission Fluid The Importance of a Quality Viscosity Index Improver Cost Calculation and Efficiency The audience responded with enthusiasm, particularly during the Q&A sessions, where participation was lively and questions reflected a strong technical interest. Feedback from attendees highlighted the quality and relevance of the content, with many delegates leaving with valuable takeaways for their respective organisations. The Chevron Oronite team expressed their appreciation for the professional arrangements and warm hospitality provided throughout their visit. The success of the event is a testament to Gapuma Group’s commitment to excellence and collaboration within the lubricants sector. Gapuma’s own team— Prakash Ramchandani, Thompson Longe, and Akash Suhanda—played a key role in the seamless execution of the seminar. The event reinforces Gapuma’s role as a trusted industry partner dedicated to advancing technical expertise and strengthening relationships across the region. We extend our sincere thanks to all attendees and look forward to building on the momentum of this successful collaboration.
Bridging 6,000 Miles: South Africa’s Dave Steward Visits Gapuma HQ in London
Bridging 6,000 Miles: South Africa’s Dave Steward Visits Gapuma HQ in London 22nd May 2025 Gapuma was pleased to welcome Dave Steward, one of our dynamic sales associates from South Africa, to our Head Office in London this week for a focused three-day fact-finding mission. Dave plays a pivotal role in driving growth across southern Africa, a region that now contributes around 10% of Gapuma’s annual turnover. His visit marks a vital step in aligning regional operations with the company’s wider global ethos. “Being here has been about more than just meetings,” Dave explained. “It’s about truly understanding the culture, brand values and working practices at the heart of Gapuma. My goal is to take that energy and insight back to South Africa — to help our team there feel more connected to the wider business and to apply what I’ve learnt to strengthen our operations.” Over the course of the visit, Dave sat down with senior managers across key departments, delved into the company’s commercial and compliance processes, and explored how Gapuma’s values are embedded in its day-to-day operations. By observing the rhythm of life at HQ, Dave is helping close the 6,000-mile gap between the UK and South Africa. Reflecting on his trip, he said: “This visit has been incredibly valuable. I’ll be going back with a notebook full of ideas, a better sense of the company’s strategic direction, and a renewed sense of purpose. There’s so much happening here that can feed directly into the growing success story we’re building in South Africa.” With global collaboration at the heart of Gapuma’s success, Dave’s visit is a reminder that international distance is no barrier when teams are united by vision, purpose, and shared ambition.
UK Trade Agreements Signal Renewed Optimism for Commodities and Cross-Border Investment
20th May 2025 Recent developments in UK trade policy are creating a more stable and favourable environment for international business, with important implications for commodities trading, supply chain management, and long-term investment planning. The UK government has signed landmark trade agreements with the European Union, United States, and India, and has announced that a pact with Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, is next on the agenda. These moves are helping to re-establish the UK as a strategic global hub for commerce—particularly in sectors where clarity of regulation and efficiency of logistics are paramount. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed that Britain’s economic outlook has improved as a result of these recent agreements, with UK GDP growth upgraded and investor sentiment strengthening. Most notably, the UK’s new accord with the EU—the most comprehensive since Brexit—includes updated cooperation on trade, fishing, defence and energy, and offers reduced checks on UK food exports. This has the potential to ease frictions in supply chains and streamline cross-border operations. For Gapuma Group, which operates across energy, chemicals, logistics, and infrastructure in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, this development affirms a positive shift. The return of a rules-based, multilateral trading framework supports our mission to deliver secure, agile, and responsible distribution of critical materials worldwide. The prospect of deeper trade relations with the Gulf region also aligns with our strategy in energy and infrastructure sectors, where we support both private and government-backed initiatives across high-growth markets. With enhanced access and reciprocal standards, we anticipate accelerated opportunities for structured trade, financial partnerships, and end-to-end logistics. “We welcome the renewed momentum in UK trade negotiations,” said a Gapuma Group spokesperson. “Increased certainty benefits the entire value chain—from origin to end user—and strengthens the case for international investment in physical commodities and the infrastructure that supports them.” As the UK continues to strengthen its global trading relationships, Gapuma remains committed to advancing sustainable, resilient, and efficient trade across every region we serve.
A Moment of Global Significance: The Election of Pope Leo XIV
09th May 2024 The Gapuma Group extends its sincere congratulations on the election of Pope Leo XIV. This occasion marks not only a new chapter for the Vatican but also a moment of reflection for the global community. At a time when the world faces complex social, economic, and environmental challenges, the emergence of new leadership dedicated to peace, compassion, and dialogue offers renewed hope. While Gapuma is a secular organisation, we recognise the broader importance of leadership that inspires unity, understanding, and moral clarity. As a company operating across cultures, continents, and communities, we deeply value those principles in our own work—where collaboration, respect, and ethical conduct shape everything we do. We join many across the globe in wishing Pope Leo XIV wisdom and strength in his papacy, and trust that his leadership will encourage a spirit of inclusion and humanity in the years ahead.
Gapuma Strengthens Industry Ties at ChemExpo 2025
08th May 2025 Gapuma was proud to participate in ChemExpo 2025, South Asia’s premier international exhibition for the chemical industry, held in Mumbai last week. The event brought together over 500 exhibitors and thousands of delegates from across the globe, offering a vital platform for knowledge exchange, commercial collaboration, and industry insight. Representing Gapuma at the event, our Channel and Product Manager, Sunil Bahl, engaged with a broad range of suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers operating across key sectors — including pharmaceuticals, personal care, polymers, textiles, industrial coatings, and more. Among the many constructive conversations was a detailed exchange with senior representatives of Sarex Overseas, a respected name in the speciality chemicals space with a strong international reputation built over more than sixty years. Their focus on diversified application areas closely reflects Gapuma’s own commitment to providing integrated solutions to clients across complex global markets. Participation in ChemExpo 2025 reaffirmed the value of physical industry gatherings in building trust, uncovering innovation, and fostering long-term relationships. As demand continues to rise for reliable, ethical, and sustainable chemical sourcing, Gapuma remains at the forefront of efforts to connect world-class producers with end users across emerging and established economies. We extend our thanks to the organisers of ChemExpo for curating such a vibrant and forward-looking event. We look forward to building on the many conversations started in Mumbai and to continuing our mission of delivering value through global trade, sectoral expertise, and partnership-led growth.
UK–India Trade Deal Opens New Horizons
07th May 2025 On Tuesday, the United Kingdom and India finalised a landmark free trade agreement aimed at increasing bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually by 2040. The deal significantly reduces tariffs on a wide range of goods, including British exports such as cosmetics, medical devices, and aircraft components, while 99% of Indian exports — including textiles, foodstuffs, and jewellery — will face no import duty in the UK. For British commodities trading companies like Gapuma, which operates across sectors including, coatings, cosmetics, extractive industries, food and drink, manufacturing, and packaging, the agreement presents substantial opportunities. The reduction in tariffs on British goods exported to India, particularly in cosmetics and medical-grade products, aligns with Gapuma’s supply capabilities and could enhance its competitiveness in the Indian market. Furthermore, the removal of duties on the majority of Indian exports to the UK may benefit Gapuma’s sourcing strategies, particularly in textiles and food-related sectors, by reducing costs and broadening product availability. The deal’s provisions for goods and services trade, along with modest improvements to business mobility — including simplified visa access for Indian professionals — may further facilitate smoother operations and cross-border collaborations. As the global trading environment continues to evolve, Gapuma’s diversified portfolio and well-established international presence leave it well placed to take advantage of the new opportunities emerging from this UK–India agreement — a strategic move that could shape the future of commodities trading between two of the world’s largest economies.
Chemicals with a Conscience: Shaping a Sustainable Future
By: Jack Bardakjian – Group Managing Director May 2025 Tackling the Environmental Pressures of the Chemical Industry The chemical industry plays a vital role in the global economy, supplying essential materials to a diverse range of sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing. Yet, this criticality is accompanied by substantial environmental challenges within the supply chain. Issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, hazardous waste generation, and resource depletion have long been prevalent, creating an urgent need for a shift towards more sustainable practices. Gapuma, a leading provider of chemicals and other commodities, is committed to tackling these challenges head-on. Through its operations, the company integrates sustainability into its core values, advocating for a broader industry-wide transformation that embraces the future of responsible production and distribution. The Ecological Footprint of Chemical Production The chemical supply chain is complex, spanning everything from raw material extraction to production processes, transportation, and waste disposal. Each stage of this chain has unique environmental consequences. Resource extraction often leads to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. As environmental scientist Dr. Jane Goodall has highlighted, “The degradation of our natural environments cannot be separated from the industries that exploit them.” Furthermore, processing these materials is energy-intensive and often results in significant emissions. Chemical production remains one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. The chemical industry accounts for around 5% of global CO₂ emissions, as outlined by the International Energy Agency (IEA). This underscores the urgency of adopting emission-reduction strategies across the sector. The logistics of distributing chemicals globally often relies heavily on fossil fuels, exacerbating the industry’s carbon footprint. Efforts to reduce this reliance and embrace cleaner transport solutions are key to advancing sustainability in the chemical supply chain. Improper disposal of chemical products can lead to severe environmental contamination, threatening both ecosystems and human health. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has long called for the adoption of sustainable waste management practices, stressing the importance of minimising toxic releases into the environment. How Gapuma Is Leading the Way in Sustainable Practices Gapuma recognises the gravity of these environmental challenges and has taken proactive steps to integrate sustainability into its operations. This commitment manifests in several key areas. Gapuma is pioneering the provision of high-performance chemicals designed to optimise energy production processes while reducing environmental impact. By embracing green chemistry principles, the company helps its clients achieve cleaner, more efficient production methods. As noted by Professor Tim Jackson of the Centre for Understanding Sustainable Prosperity, “Green chemistry not only reduces environmental harm but also drives innovation and new business opportunities.” Beyond the operational sphere, Gapuma places a strong emphasis on supporting the communities in which it operates. This reflects the company’s holistic approach to sustainability, recognising that a truly sustainable business must consider the well-being of its people and the wider community. Shaping the Future: Industry Trends and Innovations Gapuma’s initiatives resonate with broader industry trends that seek to reduce the environmental footprint of the chemical sector. Leading practices include Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM), a strategic approach that integrates environmental considerations into supply chain management. By focusing on reducing waste and emissions, GSCM supports the chemical industry’s transition towards more sustainable practices. As a recent report by the World Economic Forum indicates, “The future of supply chains lies in their ability to adapt to both environmental imperatives and evolving market demands.” Many chemical companies are adopting ISO 14001, an internationally recognised standard for environmental management. By doing so, they establish frameworks for systematically reducing their environmental impact, which is becoming increasingly essential in a world that demands accountability. Another promising innovation is the chemical leasing model, which focuses on selling the function of chemicals rather than the quantity. By encouraging more efficient use and reducing waste, chemical leasing represents a path toward greater sustainability. According to a study by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), this model not only reduces environmental impact but also offers significant cost savings for businesses. Turning Challenges into Opportunities: What’s Next for the Chemical Industry? While the journey towards sustainability in the chemical supply chain is challenging, it also presents significant opportunities for innovation and leadership. The chemical industry operates within a highly regulated environment, due to concerns around safety and environmental impact. Companies must stay vigilant to evolving regulations, which requires both flexibility and foresight. As Dr. Michael E. Porter, a renowned expert on business strategy, has said, “Regulations, when embraced correctly, can drive innovation and competitive advantage.” Developing and implementing new, sustainable technologies can be resource-intensive. However, as the shift towards sustainability accelerates, businesses that invest in these technologies stand to benefit from increased operational efficiency and long-term cost savings. Striking a balance between sustainability and profitability remains a critical challenge. However, as many companies are discovering, integrating sustainable practices not only helps protect the planet but can also be a powerful driver of business growth and consumer trust. These challenges present opportunities for businesses to lead the way in shaping the future of the chemical industry. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can gain a competitive edge, meet regulatory requirements, and contribute positively to global environmental stewardship. Charting a Path Forward: Sustainability as a Strategic Advantage The environmental challenges within the chemical supply chain are vast and varied. However, companies like Gapuma are demonstrating that it is possible to integrate sustainability into core business operations while driving meaningful change across the sector. By embracing industry-wide best practices, focusing on innovation, and addressing the environmental challenges head-on, Gapuma is not only advancing sustainability within the chemical supply chain but is also contributing to a more responsible and prosperous future for the entire industry.