We started our day at Vassiliko Cement Works to learn about their company. Vassiliko is unique because it is one of the few modern companies that still practices vertical integration. Vertical integration means that a company owns all aspects of the supply chain, from raw materials to final product. Vassiliko fits this mold perfectly. The collect raw materials from quarries they own and transport them to the factory with their own trucks. Their factory then houses all equipment needed to turn the raw materials into the final product, whether that is clinker or cement. Vassiliko even owns and operates their own port meaning they also control the exportation of their product. From start to finish Vassiliko owns everything needed to produce cement making them an ideal example of vertical integration. On the other hand, VTTI is a specialization company that partakes in virtual integration. VTTI stores and handles bulk liquid products, and their Cyprus location is right next to the Vassiliko Cement Works plant. While at Vassiliko we heard from a VTTI rep who explained their company owns infrastructure not materials or products. They must work with other companies in order to have a complete supply chain, hence they are virtually integrated. Before leaving Vassiliko we got to tour the cement plant, and it was so cool to see all the parts that go into such a common material.
After touring the Vassiliko factory we stopped for lunch. Today the group ate lunch together at a local fish tavern where we tried their seafood meze. While most of the seafood wasn’t for me, I did enjoy the Feta and bread as well as the falafel. Following lunch, we visited the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI). CMMI focuses on ‘driving sustainable blue economy addressing the needs of industry and society’. This means that many of CMMI’s research projects are focused on collecting and analyzing data to understand how we can best help marine life. They are also working on the digitalization of ports and marinas to maximize efficiency and reduce unnecessary carbon emissions. One of the projects I found interesting was their zero-emission vessel. This boat runs on electricity and solar power resulting in a near silent motor. Not only is this vessel better for the environment but it doesn’t disturb the marine life as it passes. CMMI has such a large variety of projects in the works, and it was fascinating to see where marine technology is headed. Before heading back to the hotel, we made two cultural immersion stops: St. Lazarus Church and Hala Sultan Tekke. Both of these locations were gorgeous and exemplified the differences in the two religions. Finally, we returned to the hotel with some pizza for a relaxing night in.