Theodosis Michalopoulos has been named the acting CEO of Microsoft in Greece, Cyprus and Malta, upon the departure of Peggy Antonakou, until a new Chief Executive Officer is appointed, according to a press statement sent to Business Malta. In his new interim role, he will focus on contributing to the transformation and growth of the company’s customers and partners in Greece, Cyprus and Malta.

After leading the branch for seven years, Ms Antonakou will pursue a career outside Microsoft, and her role will temporarily be filled by Mr Michalopoulos, who is a member of the Leadership Team of the company and currently holds the position of Enterprise Commercial and Public Sector Sales Director for Microsoft in Greece, Cyprus and Malta.

Mr Michalopoulos joined the Microsoft in 2014, as of the Director of the Consumer Channels Group. Despite the challenging macroeconomic environment, he contributed to achieving a “highly-prosperous period in the sales sector” for three consecutive years, Microsoft says.

Becoming the Enterprise Commercial Sales Director, he led the transformation of a traditional sales approach into a modern customer-centric model “to significantly empower the digital transformation of Microsoft” in Greece, Cyprus and Malta, the Microsoft press statement adds.

Mr Michalopoulos holds a BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Sussex, an MSc in Communications & Signal Engineering from the Imperial College of Science & Technology of London and an MBA from the Athens Laboratory of Business Administration (ALBA).

The post Microsoft names interim CEO for Greece, Cyprus and Malta first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

Maltese films generated a total gross box office of €97,000 through 756 screenings with 17,911 people viewing, while foreign productions had 822,020 viewers delivering a box office of €5.4m via 44,255 screenings in 2018, the National Statistics Office (NSO) said in a report that investigated eight cinemas offering 35 screens and an accumulated seating capacity of 6,716. Recent statistics show that cinema attendance in Malta has increased considerably, which players see to be a very positive trend for the local industry.

“In general terms, interest in cinema in Malta is on the increase; figures reveal 673,487 admissions in 2016, 757,203 in 2017 and 839,931 in 2018. It means that people are going back to the cinema and everyone technically gains from this trend,” lecturer and freelance filmmaker Kenneth Scicluna weighs in on the matter when speaking to BM, mentioning statistics compiled by NSO. Mr Scicluna notes that since the NSO omits the titles of Maltese productions, it is difficult to ascertain whether the figures given included box office figures for episodes from popular local TV series shown in cinemas as season premieres or finales.

Beyond acknowledging the upward trend in cinema attendance, Mr Scicluna adds that Maltese titles also appear to have been fairly consistent in attracting people to the big screen. “In 2016, seven Maltese films sold approximately 11,000 tickets, and although a year later cinemas sold approximately the same amount of tickets for Maltese titles — albeit for 11 films –, 2018’s figures reveal consistency with the trend,” the filmmaker says. Last year, Maltese films were viewed by 17,911 people, according to NSO statistics, with 17 Maltese films reportedly making it to the big screen in 2018, therefore selling approximately 1,000 tickets per film in 2018.

Giving a framework to the Maltese market, Mr Scicluna says that the figures for Maltese films are relatively better than those of European films screened in Malta. In fact, Maltese cinemas screened 173 European-made films in 2016, 181 films in 2017 and 180 films in 2018, according to NSO statistics. Nevertheless, these films attracted approximately 144,000 people in 2016, which number fell to 67,082 in 2017, and was further down to 49,937, according to official NSO statistics.

“As NSO statistics reveal, 2018 was a phenomenal year for cinema in general, we are very happy and proud, especially when it comes to the box office performance and growth of the local cinematic market,” Carinzia Camilleri, General Manager of Eden Cinemas, confirms.

How far cinema can be a firm competitor in the entertainment business depends highly on the content aired. Good movies will attract more people, which is a factor out of the operator’s reach. Additionally to last year’s record-breaking performance, this year could further increase numbers chiefly due to The Lion King and Avengers movies. “It is still a bit too early to make a comment about a confirmed growth, however. Looking into the possibilities 2020 might have on hold, we have to see the lineup, which usually shapes up around October,” Ms Camilleri adds.

Multilayered competition

Although legal streaming services provide an alternative to people to watch their favourite films in the comfort of their homes, such techy solutions still do not seem to steal viewership from cinemas in the island nation, for the time being.

When big titles are released in Malta, locals still go to the cinema in high numbers, as figures reveal. This implicates that cinemas might still be very relevant in today’s society. The large screen, the great sound, and comfortable seating are all great advantages to experience a film in the best way possible, which extras might well contribute to the increasing popularity of cinemas.

“Speaking about competitors, other cinemas are not our only competitors. Anything related to the entertainment business is our competitor. Even the bowling in front of Eden can be a competitor which attracts people who go there instead of not going to the cinema,” Ms Camilleri tells BM.

Although online streaming is present in the online entertainment market, one “cannot compete with the unique atmosphere created by the cinema. If we talk about blockbusters, comic movies, live-action there is no comparison between streaming and cinema and we are not being affected in this case,” Ms Camilleri adds.

To make sure they stay in the competition, though, cinemas are improving their technological background to keep up the pace with the quickly-developing audiovisual market and easy access to top-notch tech at customers’ fingertips. It appears cinema operators are well aware of the disruptors of the market and apply a rather reactive approach to innovative challenges that the latest technology presents.

In recent years, cinemas all across Malta, have been going through technological developments, such as switching to digital picture technology. These advances are thought to surely influence the market as movie theatres are becoming able to offer alternative experiences. This tendency may help local cinemas to tap into niche markets and exploit cinema theatres not just for film purposes but for other entertainment options. Similarly to other sectors, customers’ expectations are increasing which local cinemas need to take into account to ensure that they are able to offer the best experience and services possible, to keep driving high attendance.

“We changed all our movie theatres to digital seven years ago, our 13 screens are all digital but we do not work with laser yet, we work with lamp. In the last five years, we have refurbished four of our theatres in terms of seating and screening. We have another refurbishment of three screens scheduled for the beginning of next year and other refurbishment works are underway when it comes to our main foyer,” Ms Camilleri of Eden says.

Mario Loporto, Consultant at Citadel Cinema in Malta’s sister island; Gozo, appears to be on the same wavelength. “The old technology used to be the classic 35mm which was labour-intensive and it was quite difficult to get a clear and stable picture, whereas the new digital technology is totally computerised and electronic, which makes it easy to prepare and air a film,” says Mr Loporto.

“Moreover, the picture is crystal clear since we use 4K projectors [a piece of technology that provides sharp images with a horizontal screen resolution of around 4000 pixels]. The public reacted positively to this change as attendances increased. This is a big attraction for the Gozitans and for the island of Gozo,” he adds.

“the picture is crystal clear since we use 4K projectors […] This is a big attraction for the Gozitans and for the island of Gozo.”

Mario Loporto, Consultant at Citadel Cinema in Gozo, Malta’s sister island.

Nevertheless, competition is not only global, due to around the clock connectivity and streaming, but also local. It appears that many people have their preferred cinemas and they do not feel comfortable in going to ones at different localities in Malta. Maltese industry insiders, however, say that the competition stays healthy in the Mediterranean archipelago.

Gozitan micro market

The island of Gozo presents its own market with the Citadel Cinema, and due to the small size of the sister island, the market has different goals and ambitions to Malta.

“Obviously, due to the small size of our operating market, which is made of circa 30,000 people compared to the approximately 400,000 in Malta, when films are less popular we operate on a much smaller market which affects our attendance numbers negatively,” says Mr Loporto.

Despite the main issue of size, people are always interested to spend a night out at the cinema with the family and the perspective for the future remains positive even in a small island like Gozo.

“Due to production of many high-standard films that attract families and children, the market has improved a lot. We think that in the future there will be more room for the film industry to grow as long as we keep investing in the latest technologies,” Mr Loporto adds.

Citadel Cinema in Gozo offers two screens with a capacity of 128 and 167 seats, respectively. On average a new movie is introduced every week, in order to give something innovative to the audience.

Mr Loporto also notes that the attendance depends on the movie shown. For instance, the launch of good family movies, such as Pixar or Disney cartoons, brings more families to the cinema. Since at present good family movies are being launched, the attendances are very good, Mr Loporto reckons. This echoes Ms Camilleri’s point of view on the importance of content as an attraction factor of viewership.

Catering for social needs

In addition to cinemagoers favouring the comfortable seating and monumental experience of movie theatres, the activity is still viewed as a social gathering, similar to how it used to be decades ago. Even if recent tech solutions provide instant and flexible ways to enjoy a movie in the comfort and isolation of one’s home, people still seem to prefer a huge auditorium and would enjoy sharing the viewing experience with their fellows, at least in Malta.

Fintech solutions, similarly to other industries, appear to increase competition for cinemas too. Nevertheless, figures show that many people still want to experience a film in a grandiose setting and enjoy the cinema experience.

Cinema is highly about the social gathering factor – people go to the cinema not just to watch a film but to meet friends, to have a relaxing time with their family or else to enjoy a day or night out with the people closest to them. Cinema is not just about the film – it is more than that, hence it has still remained popular in Malta even though new options have emerged.

EDITORIAL NOTE: Industry insiders have been consulted for the present article to ensure that the coverage is in line with the most recent trends in the vertical. At the same time, Business Malta has reached out to all the major cinema establishments operating in the country and has included answers received by the time of publication of the present story.

The post Malta’s cinemas stand firm in diverse competition first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

GentingBet says this agreement fits into its strategy of strengthening European presence. GentingBet opened its new “Interactive Headquarters” in Malta earlier this year. Play’n GO tags the agreement as “another landmark” in the continued expansion of suppliers into the UK market.

“Genting is well-known for the high quality of entertainment it brings to its players around the world. Our library of award-winning content represents that quality, and we are delighted for it to be a part of their offering. We are excited to be working with them and look forward to the future,” said Johan Törnqvist, CEO of Play’n GO. 

“Play’n GO are key players within the casino industry and partnering with them to offer their content brings us closer to our vision of providing the best range of slot games to our customers online and land-based with a due course,” said Jeremy Taylor, GentingBet’s Managing Director. 

“They also join us at a very exciting time with our new mobile-first website covering Sports and Casino launching in August under the one GentingBet brand,” Mr Taylor added. 

The post Play’n GO to provide its content to GentingBet first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

The revamped websites offer new features and their redesign is thought to create a different user experience for customers, who send money to over two billion bank accounts and mobile wallets or to any MoneyGram location in more than 200 countries and territories. 

“The enhancements we have made to our website will provide a more customer-centric web experience, making it even easier for our customers to send money domestically and internationally to friends and family,” said Alex Holmes, Chairman and CEO MoneyGram. 

“We have made significant investments in our digital capabilities over the last few years in order to provide a differentiated customer experience, and the improved online platform is another way we’re driving digital growth and staying at the forefront of the industry,” Mr Holmes added. 

The group expects future partnerships the capitalise on MoneyGram’s digital and physical network in order to serve new customers.

The post MoneyGram launches new online platform first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

Emirates says that the continuous growth of the airline has spurred an increased demand for staff, therefore, the company is looking for both women and men to fill the new positions.

The employment package offered for Emirates cabin crew includes a variety of benefits such as a tax-free income, “high standard” shared accommodation in Dubai, transport to/from work, medical and dental cover as well as exclusive discounts on shopping and leisure activities in Dubai. Emirates also offers international travel benefits for its cabin crew as well as their families and friends on the routes of the airline.

Further perks of working for Emirates include and “outstanding career opportunity” accompanied by thorough training and “unmatched cultural exposure” working in the international team of over 135 nationalities including a 60-staff cabin crew from Malta, the company press statement underscores.

Paul Fleri Soler, Country Manager for Emirates in Malta, describes the Emirates cabin crew as open-minded, helpful, friendly and service-oriented. “This open day is a great opportunity for Maltese candidates to get their career off to a flying start. The airline is looking for candidates who reflect the values that Emirates cares for, such as professionalism, empathy, progressiveness, visionary and cosmopolitan worldview,” the country manager says.

Applicants are highly advised to attend the open day and go with an up-to-date CV in English and a recent photograph. Candidates will need to arrive prepared to spend the full day at the venue if required. Shortlisted candidates will be informed of timings for further assessments and interviews.

Aspiring cabin crew members have to possess certain qualities in order to stand a good chance in qualifying for a position offered by Emirates, such as being positive, confident, flexible, friendly and very keen to help others.

The official website adds a list of requirements as follows:

• At least 21 years of age at the time of joining
• Arm reach of 212 cm while standing on tiptoes
• Minimum height of 160 cm
• High school graduate (Grade 12)
• Fluency in English (written and spoken)
• No visible tattoos while you are in Emirates cabin crew uniform (cosmetic and bandage coverings are not allowed)
• Can adapt to new people, new places and new situations
• Physically fit for this demanding role with a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI)

The official Emirates website adds that a good candidate should be determined to always perform well, and be ready to adapt to a “pretty demanding work schedule”. Cultural awareness is another important cornerstone of the company that the cabin crew has to represent.

Emirates has been operating in Malta since 1998 and connects passengers to more than 158 destinations across six continents, operating a daily service between Malta and Dubai.

The post Emirates to hold open day, looking to recruit in Malta first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

The second quarter of 2019 saw 130 cruise liner calls, with an increase of 27 calls compared to 2018. Transit passengers accounted for 79.9% of the majority of total traffic of 210,671. 

Furthermore, 2,421 passengers visited Gozo while 8,419 spent at least one night on board their berthed cruise liner. Every vessel that berthed in Malta carried approximately 2,028 passengers, 253 more than the previous year, the NSO press release says.  

On the one hand, tourists from EU member states represented 65.5% of total traffic, with Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and France being the major markets. On the other hand, the total number of passengers from non-EU countries stood at 90,966, of whom 42.6% came from the United States. 

Focusing on genders and age, women passengers made up 54.3% of the total and the largest share of passengers fell within the 60-79 age group and was followed by those aged between 40 and 59.  

Traffic ups in H1

Moreover, during the first six months of the year, total cruise passengers increased by 35.3% to 341,659 over 2018. Some 65.6% of the total came from EU member states. Major increases were recorded in the German, American and British markets, according to the NSO figures.

In the first half of the year, women passengers were 184,799 and represented the majority. Most passengers were between 60 and 79 years old, amounting to 138,732, who were followed by passengers aged 40-59, reaching 103,988. 

In addition, there were 151 cruise liner calls during the period January-June, with an average of 2,263 tourists per vessel, compared to 120 calls and approximately 2,105 passengers in the same period of 2018.

The full report with charts and tables is available for download at the NSO website.  

The post Malta’s cruise pax influx soars 44.2% in Q2 first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

The cinemas employed an average of 174 people, 83.5% on a part-time basis. 

Furthermore, in Malta and Gozo, there were 450 films projected and they registered a total of 839,931 admissions in 2018. In addition, the total screenings amounted to 45,011 with an average of 100 screenings per film. 

The 91.5% of customers have watched films from the US and Maltese productions attracted 2.1% of the total number of admissions.  

Furthermore, 3D movies accounted for 11.8%, while 87.2% of admissions were for non-3D films. Moreover, 292 fiction films amounted to 292, attracting 77.3% of people. On their part, animation films amounted to 49 and attracted 19.8%.

Mercury’s life rules 2018

The most popular movies were “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again” and “Johnny English Strikes Again”, the NSO press release says.  

Freddy Mercury and his life story attracted, in fact, 8.2% of the total admissions, while “Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again” and “Johnny English Strikes Again” engaged 5.8% and 5%, respectively. 

In terms of age classification, 33.8% of the films were rated as 15 while 18.9% 12A, which means they were suitable for children aged 12 and over. Only 2.2% were rated as 18+.

Focusing on running time, 62.4% of the movies fell within the 76 to 120 minutes bracket. These were followed by durations of 121 to 180 minutes, amounting to 27.3%. 

On the one hand, the “Live/Encore” type of shows which includes operas, ballets, and theatre, had the longest-running time with an average of 165 minutes. On the other hand, animation films were the shortest with an average of 91 minutes.

The full report with charts and tables is available for download at the NSO website. 

The post Maltese titles generate €97,000 in local cinemas first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

The highest number of passengers was recorded in June with 534,433 passengers (33.9% of the total for the quarter). Moreover, the number of vehicles increased by 7.5%, totalling 454,818. 

The number of trips amounted to 6,289, an increase of 8.9% over the same period in 2018. The majority of trips took place again in June, with 36.9% of total trips for the Q2 2019, the NSO figures show. 

Furthermore, during the first six months of this year, passenger traffic originating from Ċirkewwa was busiest on Friday and Saturday, whereas the highest numbers from Mġarr were recorded on Sunday and Saturday.  

The full report with included charts and tables is available for download at the NSO website.

The post Malta-Gozo transport grows in Q2 2019 first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

This state visit was a follow-up meeting to the visit the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic paid to Malta last August when the two leaders discussed matters related to immigration.

“Cooperation between Malta and the Czech Republic, as well as the good relations between the two countries and on a personal level between the two prime ministers, is the essence of the European Union,” said Mr Muscat. “Despite the many different features between Malta and the Czech Republic, sitting around a table helped us to understand each other better,” Mr Muscat added.

In addition, he explained that this year marks the 20th anniversary since the first direct flight between the two countries. Mr Muscat also underscored the importance of continuing the development of these connections.

Mr Babiš acknowledged the similarities between the two countries; that both countries joined the European Union at the same time and also that both Malta and the Czech Republic have open economies, as the press release says. Consequently, he announced that a business delegation will be sent to Malta to explore further potential business cooperation especially in the fields of innovative technologies and education.

In addition, Mr Babiš noted that 22,000 tourists travel from the Czech Republic to Malta on a yearly basis, according to the press release.

The post Maltese, Czech PMs discuss ties and cooperation first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.

The customers are asked to file all the needed paperwork online and complete their application prior to turning up at a branch of the bank. After filing the documentation, the bank calls and offers an appointment, avoiding to queue later on. At the end of the process, the clients immediately receive their bank cards and equipment to log into their internet banking.

Furthermore, Premier account customers receive a travel cover, as well as some additional rewards of the HSBC Premier World Mastercard. HSBC Advance account holders are also eligible for travel insurance and all the rewards that come with the HSBC Advance Visa Platinum card. Customers eligible for a regular account are offered internet banking and mobile banking.

“Our customers told us opening a bank account was too difficult. We listened to their feedback and I am excited that we have launched a brand-new experience which I believe will change the way people feel about opening bank accounts in Malta and Gozo,” said Daniel Robinson, HSBC Malta Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management. “I want to welcome new customers to HSBC and I believe the changes we have made will make this simpler, better and faster for them,” he added.

By the end of this year, HSBC also foresees to launch an upgraded mobile application and to revamp its internet banking services.

Daniel Robinson, HSBC Malta Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, explains in the video below how the online application takes place, and what further improvement his bank expects this year.

The post HSBC Bank Malta streamlines bank account opening process first appeared on The Malta Business Weekly.