Oman Drydock discusses strategy with potential suppliers

Muscat: Oman Drydock Company (ODC) has invited potential supply partners to its Duqm facility to outline its approach to blasting and painting activities, which are essential to deliver services to ship owners across the world.
The event, which was hosted by Andrew Chapell, ODC’s head of supply chain, was attended by senior representatives of regional and local suppliers. Chapell was supported by a team drawn from across the business, which had been instrumental in ensuring that the company’s needs were fully captured, according to a company release.
Chapell welcomed the delegates and provided them with an overview of the plans for the development of Duqm’s special economic zone. With ODC being seen as the key to regional success, he emphasised the broader business opportunities that would be created with the growth of the Al Wusta region.
Tim Emmerson, ODC’s painting manager, took the stage to speak about the technical aspects of ODC’s future blasting and painting requirements. Emmerson demonstrated the application of two coats of paint to over 30,000 square metres of hull, taking just under 12 hours to apply.
Suleiman Al Ghannami, ODC acting deputy chief executive officer of administration, outlined ODC’s plans to move to a more strategic relationship with fewer blast and paint contractors.
Al Ghannami also highlighted ODC’s focus in promoting in-country value (ICV). “We take our social responsibilities seriously,” he said. “Through our revised approach to contracting for blast and paint services, we aim to deliver great service to our customers, at the same time working with suppliers to enhance the skills and competencies of local businesses.”
ODC is also looking for innovation from its future supply partners. The team was candid about the technical and process challenges they faced, and recognised that the experts in the room could provide many answers.
Chapell explained later that this was the first in a series of supplier engagement days. “We have identified a number of areas where we are keen to establish more strategic relationships with key partners, and you can expect to see a range of ODC collaboration events in the future,” he emphasised. Next, ODC will focus on a supplier for steel and welding activities, he added.