Farnek recognises its most sustainable supplier - Middle East Business News and Information
UAE-based smart and green total FM company awards Fine Hygienic Holding for its commitment to sustainability during Farnek's annual green supplier awards
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, May 2025: Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek , has acknowledged Fine Hygienic Holding as its top supplier in 2024, for its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility and ethical governance.
Fine which supplies hygiene solutions to Farnek, was recognised by Farnek management for its net-zero strategy, ISO Certifications for Quality, Environment & Safety, good sustainability governance, annual carbon footprint and sustainability reporting, CSR policy and initiatives, strong worker welfare policy and for achieving the EcoVadis Silver Medal.
Farnek had made the EcoVadis rating system a mandatory criterion, integrating it into the overall supplier evaluation score. EcoVadis, the global standard for resilient, sustainable supply chains, helps organisations manage ESG risk and compliance and improve the sustainability performance of their value chains. Their scorecards, benchmarks, tools and insights guide an improvement journey for environmental, social and ethical practices for over 150,000 businesses across 220 industries and 180 countries.
'If Farnek is going to achieve its own net zero ambitions, then it is critical that we reduce our Scope 3 emissions, those generated through our procurement process. It is estimated that suppliers can contribute up to 65% of any organisation's carbon footprint, so we must encourage, recognise and reward our suppliers through programmes such as our green awards, which is now in its fourth year,' said Muna Al Nahdi, Director of Sustainability & Consultancy at Farnek.
Launched in 2022, Farnek's initiative integrates environmental and social considerations into its procurement process, to bring about a more positive environmental impact, by appreciating and prioritising its suppliers demonstrating a similar commitment and ESG values.
To achieve this, Farnek began by introducing green principles within its supply chain process, supporting its customers' eco-consciousness, to create long term valued partnerships, which drive supply chain sustainability.
Initially, Farnek provided training so that suppliers could understand the award criteria which also helped to increase participation by 20% this year.
Suppliers were then evaluated throughout a eight-stage process, which started with questionnaires being sent to key partners. Once these were completed and returned with supporting documentation, companies were scored, weighting their responses for each standard. By adopting a progressive rating system, Fine was the clear winner, scoring 95 out of a possible 100.
'All of the suppliers that submitted entries for the awards will receive feedback to help them improve their sustainability efforts. This is an integral part of our ongoing supplier engagement and supports our strategy to enhance our sustainable supply chain,' added Al Nahdi.
Photo caption: (L-R) Markus Oberlin, Group CEO, Farnek, Seifeddine Beldi, Country Manager & Head of Key Accounts, Fine Hygienic Holding, Muna Al Nahdi, Director of Sustainability & Consultancy, Farnek, Mira Hachem, Director of Procurement, Farnek & Zaid Zeitoun, Business Development Manager, EcoVadis.
About Farnek:
Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent total facilities management company.
With a skilled workforce of more than 10,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management and security services across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mid East Info
an hour ago
- Mid East Info
UAE SMEs show steady optimism despite economic headwinds, says RAKBANK SME Confidence Index 2025
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June, 2025 – RAKBANK has released its latest SME Confidence Index, highlighting a promising outlook for the UAE's Small & Medium Enterprise (SME) sector. Based on insights from over 1,200 UAE-based SMEs collected between October and December 2024, the report – done in partnership with RFI Global – reveals an SME Confidence Index score of 57. Measured against a base score of 50, the findings reflect a stable and optimistic sentiment against a dynamic economic environment. The 2025 findings illustrate that UAE SMEs continue to build on the momentum of the resilience demonstrated in recent years. Despite a marginal drop in the overall Index score by 4 points from 61 in 2023 to 57 in 2024, the findings show that optimism remains steady, with over two-thirds (68%) of SMEs viewing the future business environment as favourable, and more than 60% reporting revenue growth over the past two years. While challenges persist, including rising operational costs, corporate tax implementation, and high borrowing costs, the overall trajectory signals adaptability and optimism among SMEs in navigating the evolving business landscape. Raheel Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of RAKBANK, commented on the findings, saying: 'This has been a milestone month for RAKBANK's Business Banking Group, reinforcing our commitment to the UAE's dynamic SME sector. We first launched the RAKBANK RFI SME Confidence Index in 2024, providing timely insights into SME sentiment, challenges, and growth outlook across the country. RAKBANK has also been named the UAE's Best Bank for SMEs at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, a recognition of our continued focus on enabling business success. In a further boost to the SME ecosystem, RAKBANK and Emirates Development Bank announced a strategic AED 1 billion co-financing partnership during the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. Small and medium enterprises are the backbone of every thriving economy, and in the UAE, they play a central role in driving diversification and sustainable development. At RAKBANK, we continue to reinforce our commitment to be a trusted partner on their journey, providing the insights, tools and support they need to grow their businesses and contribute to the wider economy.' Key highlights: The report showcases several trends shaping the SME sector in 2025. Consumer & Retail Services remain the highest-performing sector, driven by a continued rise in consumer spending and successful adoption of new business channels. The report also highlights how SMEs across industries are prioritising product innovation and market expansion as key strategies for growth in a competitive landscape. While Consumer & Retail Services SMEs achieved a sector confidence score of 60, Construction & Manufacturing (57), Transport (57), and Trading (58) remained steady in confidence, while Public Services and Professional Services saw more notable declines to 56, largely due to increased costs and lower confidence in debt servicing. Key takeaways include: Overall confidence remains above baseline: While the Index score decreased slightly to 57 from 61 in 2024, it still signals positive sentiment across the board. Revenue growth continues: More than 3 in 5 SMEs reported an increase in annual revenue over the last two financial years. SMEs with revenue up to AED 30 million posted the highest confidence score at 58, while larger SMEs (AED 30-100 million) dipped to 55. Rising costs present challenges: Over two-thirds of SMEs experienced higher operational costs, while only 39% expressed confidence in meeting debt obligations, down from last year. Digital adoption is on the rise: 22% of SMEs now sell their products or services online, and 45% use digital banking channels monthly. Sustainability is gaining attention: 55% of SMEs are either on or planning to begin a sustainability journey, with 1 in 3 citing it as a short-term business objective. Meeting challenges head-on: While UAE SMEs remain optimistic, they are also navigating barriers such as increased costs of doing business, rising demand for credit, competitive pressures, and adapting to the corporate tax regime introduced in 2024. To address these issues, many SMEs are investing ambitiously in technology, operational efficiencies, and sustainability strategies aimed at long-term growth. The report further emphasises the role of financial partners in this equation, with SMEs citing tailored banking solutions as a key support system. This finding underscores RAKBANK's continued mission to empower UAE SMEs with innovative financial products, relevant market data, and strategic guidance. What's especially encouraging from the survey, is the sector's forward-looking mindset. We're seeing increased focus on entering new markets, investing in talent, and modernising payment infrastructure. At RAKBANK, we see our role as a partner in that journey, providing not just financial solutions but also the advisory support needed to help them grow with confidence. About RAKBANK: RAKBANK, also known as the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C), is one of the UAE's oldest yet most dynamic banks. Since 1976, RAKBANK has been a market leader, offering a wide range of banking services across the UAE. We're a public joint stock company based in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with our head office located in the RAKBANK Building on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The Government of Ras Al Khaimah holds the majority of our shares, which are publicly traded on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). RAKBANK stands out for its innovation and unwavering commitment to delivering awesome customer experiences. Our transformative digital journey aims to be a 'digital bank with a human touch,' accompanying you during key moments. With 21 branches and advanced Digital Banking solutions, we offer a wide range of Personal, Wholesale, and Business Banking services. Through our Islamic Banking unit, RAKislamic, we provide Sharia-compliant services to make your banking experience seamless, whether you visit us in person or online.
Mid East Info
an hour ago
- Mid East Info
HITEK AI achieves ISO 42001 certification, the first international standard for AI management systems - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Middle East-based smart AI-powered FM solutions provider HITEK AI , which is part of the Farnek group of companies, has achieved ISO 42001 certification, the first international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems. With a strong focus on operational excellence and risk mitigation, ISO 42001 provides a structured framework for organisations to design, develop, implement, monitor, and improve AI systems responsibly and ethically. 'HITEK AI is the first FM-related company in the Middle East to achieve ISO 42001 and as such this gives us and all Farnek group companies a distinct competitive advantage and demonstrates our leadership by complying with international AI standards and aligning with global best practices and ethical principles,' said Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director, HITEK AI. 'This enables HITEK AI to demonstrate its leadership in AI governance and compliance, setting a benchmark for responsible AI implementation throughout the region's facilities management industry,' she added. HITEK AI achieved ISO 42001 certification following a long rigorous audit process conducted by Callids Global Quality & Standardization, an accredited external auditor. This involved comprehensive assessments of their process management systems, policies, risk management frameworks, data governance practices, and ethical compliance measures. The extensive evaluation demonstrated its commitment to aligning with international best practices and standards for AI management, security, and transparency. Throughout the certification process, the company consistently evidenced robust implementation, continuous monitoring, and systematic improvement of its AI solutions and protocols. 'This certification is more than just a milestone for us… it's a clear signal that HITEK AI operates with a strong, structured internal compass to govern the way we build and manage AI. In a fast-evolving landscape, where trust and transparency matter more than ever, ISO 42001 is a stamp of quality assurance that we've embedded ethics, quality, and accountability into the heart of our AI systems. We're not just innovating for today here…we're leading responsibly,' commented Ryan Mitchell, Director – QHSEW, at Farnek. ISO 42001 also allows organisations to identify and mitigate AI-related risks, including critical errors, security threats, and ethical concerns, which supports and improves responsible decision making. 'Moreover, our certification will improve the accuracy, reliability, and sustainability of our AI modeling and optimise AI-driven operations to realise maximum impact. Businesses working with us can rest assured that they have chosen a partner with reliable, responsible, and secure AI processes, supporting their innovation and growth,' added Aijaz. Photo Caption: (L–R) Markus Oberlin, Group CEO, Farnek; Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director, HITEK; Ryan Mitchell, Director – QHSEW, at Farnek. About HITEK AI: HITEK AI is a part of Farnek Group, a leading industry expert with over 45 years of technical expertise and operational experience in Facilities Management, Hospitality, and Technology Infrastructure. Our broad range of intelligent applications is a result of people, processes, and technology empowering our customers with digital, business, and technological transformation. Our solutions are aimed at complementing leaner and more sustainable operational processes that increase productivity and reduce energy consumption. Any FM Company would like to adapt the power of digitalisation, can contact HITEK Services on info@ About Farnek: Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss- owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 10,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services across several sectors: Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure, and Entertainment.
Mid East Info
10 hours ago
- Mid East Info
UAE SMEs show steady optimism despite economic headwinds, says RAKBANK SME Confidence Index 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June, 2025 – RAKBANK has released its latest SME Confidence Index, highlighting a promising outlook for the UAE's Small & Medium Enterprise (SME) sector. Based on insights from over 1,200 UAE-based SMEs collected between October and December 2024, the report – done in partnership with RFI Global – reveals an SME Confidence Index score of 57. Measured against a base score of 50, the findings reflect a stable and optimistic sentiment against a dynamic economic environment. The 2025 findings illustrate that UAE SMEs continue to build on the momentum of the resilience demonstrated in recent years. Despite a marginal drop in the overall Index score by 4 points from 61 in 2023 to 57 in 2024, the findings show that optimism remains steady, with over two-thirds (68%) of SMEs viewing the future business environment as favourable, and more than 60% reporting revenue growth over the past two years. While challenges persist, including rising operational costs, corporate tax implementation, and high borrowing costs, the overall trajectory signals adaptability and optimism among SMEs in navigating the evolving business landscape. Raheel Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of RAKBANK, commented on the findings, saying: 'This has been a milestone month for RAKBANK's Business Banking Group, reinforcing our commitment to the UAE's dynamic SME sector. We first launched the RAKBANK RFI SME Confidence Index in 2024, providing timely insights into SME sentiment, challenges, and growth outlook across the country. RAKBANK has also been named the UAE's Best Bank for SMEs at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, a recognition of our continued focus on enabling business success. In a further boost to the SME ecosystem, RAKBANK and Emirates Development Bank announced a strategic AED 1 billion co-financing partnership during the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. Small and medium enterprises are the backbone of every thriving economy, and in the UAE, they play a central role in driving diversification and sustainable development. At RAKBANK, we continue to reinforce our commitment to be a trusted partner on their journey, providing the insights, tools and support they need to grow their businesses and contribute to the wider economy.' Key highlights: The report showcases several trends shaping the SME sector in 2025. Consumer & Retail Services remain the highest-performing sector, driven by a continued rise in consumer spending and successful adoption of new business channels. The report also highlights how SMEs across industries are prioritising product innovation and market expansion as key strategies for growth in a competitive landscape. While Consumer & Retail Services SMEs achieved a sector confidence score of 60, Construction & Manufacturing (57), Transport (57), and Trading (58) remained steady in confidence, while Public Services and Professional Services saw more notable declines to 56, largely due to increased costs and lower confidence in debt servicing. Key takeaways include: Overall confidence remains above baseline: While the Index score decreased slightly to 57 from 61 in 2024, it still signals positive sentiment across the board. Revenue growth continues: More than 3 in 5 SMEs reported an increase in annual revenue over the last two financial years. SMEs with revenue up to AED 30 million posted the highest confidence score at 58, while larger SMEs (AED 30-100 million) dipped to 55. Rising costs present challenges: Over two-thirds of SMEs experienced higher operational costs, while only 39% expressed confidence in meeting debt obligations, down from last year. Digital adoption is on the rise: 22% of SMEs now sell their products or services online, and 45% use digital banking channels monthly. Sustainability is gaining attention: 55% of SMEs are either on or planning to begin a sustainability journey, with 1 in 3 citing it as a short-term business objective. Meeting challenges head-on: While UAE SMEs remain optimistic, they are also navigating barriers such as increased costs of doing business, rising demand for credit, competitive pressures, and adapting to the corporate tax regime introduced in 2024. To address these issues, many SMEs are investing ambitiously in technology, operational efficiencies, and sustainability strategies aimed at long-term growth. The report further emphasises the role of financial partners in this equation, with SMEs citing tailored banking solutions as a key support system. This finding underscores RAKBANK's continued mission to empower UAE SMEs with innovative financial products, relevant market data, and strategic guidance. What's especially encouraging from the survey, is the sector's forward-looking mindset. We're seeing increased focus on entering new markets, investing in talent, and modernising payment infrastructure. At RAKBANK, we see our role as a partner in that journey, providing not just financial solutions but also the advisory support needed to help them grow with confidence. About RAKBANK: RAKBANK, also known as the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C), is one of the UAE's oldest yet most dynamic banks. Since 1976, RAKBANK has been a market leader, offering a wide range of banking services across the UAE. We're a public joint stock company based in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with our head office located in the RAKBANK Building on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The Government of Ras Al Khaimah holds the majority of our shares, which are publicly traded on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). RAKBANK stands out for its innovation and unwavering commitment to delivering awesome customer experiences. Our transformative digital journey aims to be a 'digital bank with a human touch,' accompanying you during key moments. With 21 branches and advanced Digital Banking solutions, we offer a wide range of Personal, Wholesale, and Business Banking services. Through our Islamic Banking unit, RAKislamic, we provide Sharia-compliant services to make your banking experience seamless, whether you visit us in person or online.
