Promises and lies

The difference between what a company promises, and what it actually delivers is known as the 'brand gap'. Here are some words of wisdom from Mark Stevens in Brand Week:

'Then there's clubby little Starbucks. The brand says, in effect, "Your home away from home. Your second living room. Your refuge from the rigors of the day."

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Speak, not strike

The UAE government says it will deport the workers rounded up after riots at a Jebel Ali labor camp. The Labor Ministry called the protests "uncivilized" (stones were thrown and police cars damaged) and that it won't tolerate illegal strike action.

The workers can't say they weren't warned. The authorities have always insisted on a zero tolerance approach to labor relations, and that they will listen to any legitimate complaints. It can point to progress on contract disputes, wage increases, working hours, accommodation, transport, and summertime breaks.

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Let them eat cake

The meddlesome Ministries are at it again. The UAE's Higher Committee for Consumer Protection, under the Ministry of Economy, is telling private business what they think constitutes a right and proper price rise. Water, rice, cement and fast food suppliers are affected.

The move is a response, reportedly, to a 30% price hike by Oasis water during the summer. Consumers complained and the Ministry felt it should act. Could they not have told consumers to buy another brand of water?

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Travel: good for business

In 1492 the Christian monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella won control of Spain, forcing the Moors to leave the Iberian peninsula after seven centuries of rule. Today, for UAE travelers wanting to get from Dubai to Madrid or Barcelona it must have seemed the Spanish were still holding a grudge. Despite the huge growth in Emirates and Etihad, and with Spain being one of Europe's busiest tourist destinations, it has been impossible to fly direct between the UAE and Spain.

That is set to change following a deal to allow the designated airlines of each country to operate unlimited weekly flights in each direction with any type of aircraft. The deal also includes cargo services.

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