Hassan Al-Hazeem, managing director, Intercoil. Hassan Al-Hazeem, managing director, Intercoil.

Intercoil, an official sponsor of the Hotelier Middle East Housekeeper Forum, which will take place tomorrow at Grosvenor House, tells us about its aggressive expansion plans, starting with a new factory in Ras Al Khaimah.

1. Why is it important for Intercoil/Simmons to support the Hotelier ME Housekeeper Summit?

Housekeeping is the invisible force behind a hotel’s success story and the custodians of guest comfort and hygiene. This initiative by Hotelier Middle East provides a platform for housekeeping community to interact and discuss issues, and to recognise and reward outstanding performances. Intercoil, in its 40 year history has always emphasised long term business associations, and as part of our support to the housekeeping community, and to show our strong commitment, we have agreed to support the event.

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2. What are the main topics you think will come up at the forum with regards to operations?

Globally, the trend is towards hotels that are eco–friendly, green, socially responsible in terms of reducing/recycling waste, and in the application of energy efficient technologies. The concept is so integrated in the system that during the purchase process, guest amenities require an eco-friendly certification, including our products – the mattresses. We are one of the few in the industry to be certified ISO 14001 for environmentally friendly production practices and our products are made from eco-friendly materials and recycled steel. Moreover, we were awarded the CSR label (corporate social responsibility) for the past three years by the chamber of commerce and industry.

3. What are the latest launches from Intercoil/Simmons?
Beautyrest Black, and we will soon be launching Beautyrest Comforpedic. We have also launched the world’s first air conditioned mattress. It is a very unique concept, micro climate being the key feature. Sleeping side by side, the advanced technology allows a different temperature level for the two sides of the mattress, thus offering the most suitable climate for the individual.

4. What news can we expect from Intercoil/Simmons in 2014? 
Intercoil is on a massive expansion path buoyed by a huge demand and our new facility in Ras al Khaimah is complete now. The new manufacturing plant in RAK is part of Intercoil’s aggressive expansion strategy which will see the company starting full-fledged manufacturing facilities in India and Egypt within the next 3-5 years. Intercoil also plans to expand its presence in at least two new countries every year – it currently operates in 21countries across two continents, and exports to more than 22 countries in the region. Intercoil was awarded the CSR Labels (Corporate Social Responsibility) consecutively for 3 years 2011,2012 & 2013 by Dubai Chamber. DQAP, Dubai SME100 and Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award. We will also have new manufacturing divisions, an expanded products range, and more focus on retail, targeting 50 factory outlets over the next 5 years.