Cable management

The MT32 power distribution system from Marshall-Tufflex is a fast-track plug-and-play power connection solution that eliminates hard-wiring on-site a

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Cable-management specialist Marshall-Tufflex has strengthened its presence in the Gulf with the appointment of Svetislav (Bata) Bulajic as international technical sales manager. We talk to Bulajic about technical standards in the region and the latest trends.

What is your background?

I worked for EKA Building systems (EBS) until my move to Marshall-Tufflex (MT) earlier this year. I have been working with modular wiring systems, underfloor busbar power distribution and underfloor air-con systems for almost 15 years. My work with EBS in the GCC market was during the rapid expansion of the raised-access floor market, especially here in the UAE, and along with it complete acceptance of ‘intelligent’ building systems such as modular wiring systems, underfloor-to-desk solutions and flexible air-con systems.

What is your role at MT?

My role is international technical sales manager serving the GCC countries, plus Iran, Iraq and Yemen. With my background in design through to commissioning of a range of solutions, together with my knowledge of local standards and project requirements, I am supporting our clients to meet their ever more demanding needs through what are virtually bespoke design solutions for power and data provision. Modularity and flexibility are our key design parameters, and it is my role to interpret clients’ requirements to provide realistic and successful solutions.

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How important is the Middle East region to MT?

Growing our business in the Middle East is a key strategy, and led to the creation of my role to serve our customers here from a UAE base. For the last three years we have exhibited at the Middle East Electricity Show, and will be doing so again in 2011. This focus is underpinned by our experience of almost 30 years in the Middle East market, and recognising that modern building practices are being adopted here with a renewed passion.

What are your opportunities and challenges?

Our main opportunities are coming from the need for reliable, safe and, maybe most importantly, fast and trouble-free power distribution installations using products like our MT32 and MT 507 systems. With our new business – Marshall-Tufflex Energy Management Ltd – our Voltis, Ipsis and Sinergy ranges are ready to make a significant contribution to the UAE green building regulations and energy-saving initiatives. Our continuing challenge is to gain acceptance of total cost-saving models over piecemeal comparisons when alternative solutions are being considered.

How does this market differ from more established regions like the UK and Europe?

I think I could write a book and still not be sure if I have given the right answer to that question. The truth is, as always, somewhere inbetween. The largest international consultants are present in this market – that means that they should bring their experience to the region and specify the best solutions available globally for their clients. At the same time, existing client requirements, cost expectations, comparable local experience and local regulations, as well as climate, can sometimes slow down the adoption of alternative technologies.

However, what we do have here, which is often lacking in the UK and Europe, is the vision to push the boundaries and find solutions to technical problems that seemed insurmountable. In many ways, this region is the biggest technical playground in the world and a great place for us to demonstrate and apply our innovation and experience from almost 70 years in business.