July 21, 2008
Green Nissan
Today we announced that we have concluded sales with Nissan, one of the top auto makers in the world.
This marks a new milestone as we had not landed another major car maker since first beginning to supply VW, almost 3 years ago. Nissan is the fist of many others we intend on capturing in this captive market which needs to protect 12V vehicle batteries from ongoing drained when parked either in corporate or dealer lots.
Kudos to a team which had to jump hoops in order to land this account. The fact is that we have proven that our team is the best when it comes to providing solar solutions to the automotive industry. The saving grace of our solution not only reduces Nissan's carbon footprint, it reduces landfill and maintenane issues related to the old way of maintaining batteries (replacing them!).
Well done Team ICP!
Sass
Posted by sass at 01:46 PM | Comments (0)
June 12, 2008
The quiet period is over now..
Well you 've probably heard about our financing event yesterday, just the beginning of continued path towards the vision enumerated last year. Go to http://ca.finance.yahoo.com/q?s=ICPR.OB in case you missed it.
These are major institutions that have shown confidence in ICP Solar's business plan and are ready to back us up all the way. With renewed market capture at the consumer charger level, new OEM contracts and entry into the carbon credit segment of the market, ICP is continuing its rehabilitation into the Apple of Solar.
Stay tuned people...with our competition on the run, who knows which announcement may be next!
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:40 AM | Comments (0)
June 09, 2008
Eight years...
Lisa Batey. 8 years with ICP Solar today....and imagine, she started working with us on her birthday!
Happy Anniversary and Birthday to you Lisa! May the sunshine for your more and more every year of your life...
Sass
Posted by sass at 11:38 AM | Comments (0)
October 09, 2007
China Commodity Collapse
We are perhaps beginning to witness a sobering of stock values and an extra sensitivity to bad news which we had not previously. LDK Solar is involved in a bit of a controversy regarding inventory valuations, as reported by a former controller.
The effect is to have their stock lose 25% of its value last week and continue its slide into this week and to bring general sentiment on stock values down with it. This simply points to an immature investment situation where "invest in China" is the driver, rather than fundamentals of a growth industry.
Whether I am right or not is in fact immaterial to the discussion of how to bullet-proof your company against such swings, yet here are some ideas which we have put into place:
1. Transparency and Honesty
Magnifying results will always catch up, whether in the next quarter or the one after that. Look at how many solar companies went public after a great quarter only to have their stock fall up to 50% below their IPO price when they reported "disappointing" following quarters. If you tell me its coincidental or market driven, I have a piece of land in Florida I'd like to sell you!
2. Distinction
"Where is your uniqueness?" I am consistenly pressing my team to breathe into our communications, strategies and end-product results. The only way to avoid commoditization is to differentiate ourselves from the pack. It doesn't mean that we won't be grouped into a "market sentiment" which takes us up and down the investment cycle roller coaster, it simply means that our swings down won't be as dramatic as others.
3. Deliver
Deliver on our promises. It shows discipline, ability and control of our destiny. Investors like that.
4. Keep your people happy
Last and certainly not least, the LDK issue is because of a disgruntled former controller. Now I am not one to say that is impossible to overcome, as I will attest for ICP Solar, yet the fact is that the issue came about as a direct result of the controller questioning the "ethics" of inventory reporting. This comes back to the culture being professed within the enterprise and how the top level of the company acts, for the rest will follow, or they won't, and then you may end up with a major problem on your hands.
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:50 AM | Comments (0)
September 24, 2007
Solar Conference 2007, Long Beach, CA
ICP Solar Introduces Greenmeter™ and Thin-Film Solar Tile Products at Solar
Power 2007 Conference
Innovative Products Usher In an Integrated Solar Lifestyle
Montreal, Canada, September 24, 2007 – ICP Solar Technologies Inc. (OTCBB:
ICPR, FRANKFURT: K1U.F), a developer, manufacturer and marketer of solar
cells and products, today announced that ICP senior management, led by CEO
and Chairman Sass Peress, will introduce the Company’s amorphous Thin-Film
Solar Tile and Greenmeter™ at the 4th annual Solar Power Conference and
Ex po being held September 24-27 at the Long Beach Convention and
Entertainment Center in Long Beach, California.
The Sunsei amorphous Thin-Film Solar Tile is designed for seamless
integration into a roof system. It comes with an easy interlocking system
and in different colors and finishes. The amorphous technology allows for
high performance even under low light or high temperature conditions.
'Our Thin-Film Solar Tiles are designed to be appealing to architects,
contractors and most importantly, the home owners,' said Laurent Lafite VP
Marketing & Global Strategy. 'Our tiles come in different colors and
finishes and integrate into the existing roof system without additional
mounting systems. These features make them easy to install and visually
pleasing.'
The Wireless Sunsei GreenMeter™ monitors customer’s solar energy production
and energy consumption. Used in conjunction with an existing solar panel
system it can be use d as a peak shaving device which will allow customers
to secure electrical energy at the lowest possible rate.
'Our Thin-Film Solar Tile and GreenMeter products now allow us to address
the rapidly expanding residential and power generation markets,' said Sass
Peress, ICP CEO and Chairman. 'For two decades ICP’s customer-centric
approach has been critical in driving market adoption for our consumer
products. It is this experience that can now be brought to bear in order to
recreate similarly positive experiences for homeowners. We want our
products to make those solar lifestyle moments simple, measurable and
enjoyable.'
WHO: ICP Solar Technologies Inc.
WHAT: Solar Power 2007 Conference, America’s largest solar event
WHEN: Monday, Sept. 24 – Thursday, Sept. 27
WHERE: Long Beach Convention Center, Booth #1212
WHY: ICP Introduces the Sunsei Greenmeter™ and Their Thin-Film Solar Tile.
Meet Ted Turner’s Captain Planet and learn about innovative programs that
empower children and youth around the world to work individually and
collectively to solve environmental problems in their neighborhoods and
communities.
Posted by sass at 02:16 PM | Comments (0)
August 27, 2007
How the WES was won...
Big news today at ICP Solar as we announce the acquisition agreement with WES Power
Its another defining moment for us where we continue to grow our internal intellectual property, this time through acquisition, in our quest to be the leader in innovative products for the renewable energy market. This move towards the power generation market does not mean we are giving up the consumer market. In fact, we are doubling up our efforts in that core market, all the while adding resources to attack the much larger power generation market. And the IP that the team brings with it will have tremendous impact on the next generation of power management systems for the upscale Sunsei(R) brand of solar consumer goods.
We have noticed that our style of customer-centric approach can lead to success in any market which may benefit from our core competencies of innovation and branding in the renewable energy field. We continue to invest in our rooftop tile and the WES products bring a very nice compliment to continue growth in that area of the industry.
Their team is fantastic, full of energy and typical of what I love to see in ICP Solar. It will be an interesting integration of yet another culture (Newfoundland has its own just as does Quebec) into the ICP Solar family. Welcome aboard guys, its going to be a great ride!
You can read more about the purchase at ICP Solar or WES Power websites.
Sass
Posted by sass at 04:44 AM | Comments (0)
May 11, 2007
Solar Powered "Au Revoir"...
As many of those in the solar power industry would have read yesterday, ICP Solar has sold a majority stake in its UK thinfilm factory to ISE Solar LLC, a USA corporation with over 30 years of amorphous thin film manufacturing history.
Why now? Well frankly speaking, our strategy team reviewed developments in the thinfilm world and determined that this world is about to get far more competitive than ever before with entrants claiming up to 1Gigawatt of new capacity being brought online between now and 2010. So why stay in the "solar microchip" business when so much new capacity of increased efficiency and decreased cost technologies is coming onstream?
It all relates back to the "Apple of Solar" strategy we have publicized. ICP Solar fully intends now on focusing resources on customer application technologies, such as our rooftile project for which a substantive LOI has already been signed for Spain, and other such products. The divestiture of $2M USD of expense line actually means that even if our sales were to remain at last year's levels, with our improved operations we would be profitable.
Fact is that it was time. Our team in Bridgend did a marvelous job of keeping that factory running and continuously improving its output. By staying minority holder, ICP Solar desired to continue to have access to this fine product, and which will be improving once again at the hands of Robert Stabinsky, a solar guru who put down thinfilm factories for companies such as BP Solar in the past.
Its not adios to the team in UK, yet it is a handoff which is a very important moment for me. Many people had predicted the demise of the factory long ago when we were hit by the chinese knockoffs, yet we survived and managed to improve its output by about 50% over the years. Kudos to a wonderful group of people in that little welsh town.
Sass
Posted by sass at 05:40 AM | Comments (1)
May 01, 2007
ICP Solar Fiscal 2007 Annual Report
Today we filed our annual report for the year ending January 31st, 2007. While this was not the best year in our history, it was a monumental one in terms of turning the boat around. After we were hit by a chinese tsunami of fake rated products (still alive and kicking yet being found out each day for what they are...) we began a turnaround strategy whose culmination is the best line of mobile 12V solar chargers in the world (Sunsei) and a great OEM and rooftile initiative which will begin to bear fruit later this year.
So the results you see below were only surprising in the fact that we were able to maintain sales despite a low supply of silicon and financing. Once we went public in the Fall, things really began to turnaround for us. The best is always yet to come, however just as our competition begins to copy even our colors, we have a few surprises in store!
See results at this link.
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:33 PM | Comments (0)
April 29, 2007
ICP Solar Happenings...
Last Monday, ICP Solar held its first ever annual review board of directors meeting. What a mind-growing event for me. We had a packed agenda and had some members fly in from the USA, while another joined by teleconference from Sweden.
For myself, as Chairman, it showed me the depth of the people I have surrounded myself with. Deals on the table were not automatically accepted without challenge and request for modification. Employment agreements had to be justified. Options had to be vested over a longer period of time so as to truly act as "incentives to stay" (some call these golden handcuffs!).
The fact is that in the past seven months, ICP Solar has added a full Board of Directors (even now with audit and compensation committees), a VP of Marketing and Global Strategy, Senior Product Manager, Executive Assistant, Chief Financial Officer, Director of Operations, Managing Director for regions outside of America, Graphic Design artist, two sales coordinators and more are to join shortly....(I can hear the shareholders saying "watch those expenses" and don't worry, its all in the equation!).
All to say that its a completely different company from one year ago with very few exceptions (including yours truly still at the top). For how long will I stay at the top of this organization depends on two things only:
1. Do I deliver to the board and the shareholders that which I promise?
2. Am I still the person for the job as the company grows and develops new requirements from its leader?
These are two probing questions which challenge me each and every day through this growth phase. It will be interesting to come back to this posting at year end and see just how well I've fared in delivering on those two fronts.
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:08 AM | Comments (0)
February 27, 2007
As insiders do...
There is a lot to be said for the increased transparency that being a public company creates. Moves which otherwise would have stayed behind closed doors now become public fodder, for the media to play with as they would see fit.
Increasingly, investors look to see how insiders are operating, (even living their lives) to make judgements on how a company's risk profile should be seen and whether or not ultimately to invest in those companies. When insiders are selling what does it mean? Or when they are buying shares in the company for which they work does it mean the diametric opposite?
One should be careful not to put too much weight on what one sees. All I can say, is that it simply puts further onus on a company to be honest, ethical and work with utmost integrity when dealing with ALL of its stakeholders, from clients to vendors to shareholders to team members.
Will the tremendous confidence that the ICP Solar executive team necessarily evidence itself through stock transations? Just watch us is my answer to that, for if you were a fly on the wall of our headquarters these days, you'd understand the meaning of the word "buzz". We know our targets and our plan is in motion.
Sass
Posted by sass at 11:15 AM | Comments (0)
February 12, 2007
Solar on the Seas...
If you read today's announcement by ICP Solar about our partnership with West Marine for their solar charger program then you will note that we're really on a great path of partnership with some of the biggest names in their particular industry.
It is a critical part of ICP Solar's strategy to partner with leading companies such as Wal-Mart, Costco, VW, Winnebago, West Marine, Sears, Conrad, Dick Smiths, Carrefour, Leroy Merlin and others who are leaders in their sectors. Leaders always demand honest, ethics and integrity not only from their partners but also from their own teams. Its what makes dealing with such companies a pleasure, albeit a demanding one!
While they will be some of the toughest negotiating partners you'll ever meet, the fact is that they understand a company's need to bring return to its stakeholders and that only through profits can a partner invest in the innovation required to continue to drive their businesses forward.
Solar power on the seas has never been better than with our Sunsei program, now available at West Marine. New products will hit their shelves shortly that will change the paradigm of a market which continues to look to ICP Solar for innovation. With investments in new technologies and through Merger and Acquisitions, ICP Solar has gained a lot of knowledge in the past few months which will translate into better solar power products for our partners.
We have rarely been in as strong a position to attack the market as we are now. Its a completely different feeling that we have when we walk into our HQ office today vs a year ago, and much credit goes to a team that never quit. Now with resources behind us, we are gaining market share and going after markets lost with a vengeance. I won't foretell the future here, yet I'll tell you that I am very enthused by what I see inside.
Sass
Posted by sass at 02:47 PM | Comments (1)
January 31, 2007
Demanding can create Outstanding
I've often been accused of being overly demanding and expecting too much of people. "I have a life outside ICP" I have heard in the past when reminding colleagues of deadlines, often imposed by external entities.
However, the key in dealing with a demanding boss is that the question is whether he/she is demanding of everyone or just particular people. In my case, I have found myself most demanding of those I believed in the most. They are the ones that I believe CAN rise to a higher level if they asked more of themselves. They have often become the most successful at what they do, even if they went on to compete with ICP Solar.
There are many ways to deal with a demanding boss, and this article on the internet is one of the best I've found. The question is never whether or not you'll one day end up with one, the question is how you'll deal with it.
The key in such situations, which can become explosive if both are strong willed, is respect. Yet it must flow both ways. One-way respect does not last. If you feel disrespected or are disrespecting, expect it back in return. It is rare that you won't get it back. And although we each have our own definition of respect, if we cross that boundary of someone's own definition, it is not for us to redefine the definition they hold true to their hearts, it is for us to recognize that we crossed it, and do two things from that moment on that can make a huge difference with regards to the future of your relationship: apologize and understand that this line is what it is and won't change just because we want it to.
While some people may see the demanding boss' requirements as disrespectful, they have a choice: to understand the reasons for the demands and work in a manner to avoid conflicts, or to choose conflicts and eventually lead to untenable situations which are not sustainable. Demanding can create outstanding. Can you think of any great company which does not have demanding leaders? Does it mean that life is out of balance for all those who are working there or does it mean that they have learned that balance and respect are the key to long lasting employee-employer relationships yet when the chips are down, they can count on each other because in the end, the one who can fire you the quickest and with least remorse..is the customer who has not been served because we won't go the extra demanding mile...
Sass
Posted by sass at 03:36 AM | Comments (1)
January 29, 2007
ICP Board announcement
Dear Shareholders (present and future),
Its with great pride that I announce the addition of Mr. David Dangoor to the board of Directors of ICP Solar. Please see the link for the publication of the press release this morning.
As we are maturing into our own, ICP Solar has undergone and will continue to undergo changes. It is the reality of any company that different stages require different skill sets and experiences. At our core, we are an innovation company which must emphasize best practices of innovation, engineering, quality and marketing to fulfill our obligations to our customers and other stakeholders. We’ve now transitioned from being a privately run show to a publicly listed corporation, and with such moves come changes in requirements ranging from legal to financial to market and even customer expectations.
Following the above sentiment, with David’s entrance, director Terry Chebountchak retired his position on the board. And so it goes for the board that it also goes for our company. We will have new people join us and we will have familiar ones leave, yet despite it all, we will always endeavor to press onto the next height. Terry helped us get to the stage we are at and for that I am very grateful and wanted to emphasize that his guidance through the IPO was of great value and I will always remember his input and patient demeanor as we learned the ropes of becoming a publicly listed company. He has helped me understand my new role as a public company CEO and the increased responsibilities that come with my new position as a Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Thank you Terry, you’ve been a great supporter and we wish you all the best!
Sincerely yours,
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:44 AM | Comments (0)
January 18, 2007
Surprise Discovery?
Well many of you may have read today about the news of the purchase of Discover Power by ICP Solar.
This news probably comes as a surprise to a solar power market which wasn't sure of our direction in this category, yet now confirms to it that we intend very much on being the dominant player in the "end to end" solutions market for home owners, both grid and off-grid.
Discover Power is led by a superb team which has so much experience, they were even repairing charge controllers years ago in their back part of their warehouse. These guys know solar like nobody else, they are located in the largest solar market in America, and they have a superb growth plan which so parallels ours; it made perfect sense for us to buy them.
Above all, its about the people. Crystal and Damian have stellar reputations in the industry and bring to ICP Solar a wealth of knowledge and market information which will help guide our future developments. They have a great brand and will now propel it even further with our support. A flurry of early morning emails already tells me that ICP Solar's own retailers are thrilled to be able to add larger system knowledge and opportunities to their offerings as well. And the fact that Damian personally installed the first ever solar roof shingle system in Southern California, means that he'll be a huge guiding hand in our rooftop tile strategy for that market. Cannot imagine a better person to help ensure our product is RIGHT!
Onwards and upwards the plan goes...and its all pointing to the sun!
Sass
Posted by sass at 08:06 AM | Comments (0)
January 08, 2007
Solar Recharged
Well I'm back from holidays.Two weeks in the Caribbean sun and I'm solar re-energized and ready to go. Heading down to CES where we'll make a major announcement about some great news. Its always an exciting show where our clients, vendors and competition come to check out what's new at our booth. This year is looking to be specially exciting for ICP Solar. Can't wait to get right back down to the sun!
Sass
Posted by sass at 12:18 PM | Comments (0)
December 06, 2006
New Symbol, New Board Members, New Day
ICP Solar announced a new symbol today ICPR on the NASDAQ OTC exchange effective today. Finally we have our own symbol and soon the name will also match ours. Reverse Takeover is how Microsoft and others went public yet they are not always understood well by the investing public, so here's a stab at it.
Often times, smaller companies will try to attract funding through the establishment of a public company on the NASDAQ OTC exchange given that its much less costly and onerous on their small staff capabilities. Several of them don't end up finding financing and thus simply become empty shells.
Since they have already gone through all the headache and time to become public, they can often be "folded" into a real company with real potential. In some cases the "IPO" is in effect a merger with the private company "taking over" the public one. In our case, we entered into a financing agreement that, when all is said and done, gives ICP Solar access to US$10M of funding as part of the transaction.
The management and Board of Directors resign, and the recipient of the funds and new public entity starts to operate right where the old one left off, as a public entity, beholding to shareholders, the SEC and other stakeholders like any other.
When we did the takeover, we inherited the old company name and symbol. Today the symbol changed and very shortly the name will follow (its just a matter of different processes according to US securities laws).
So we took advantage of this fact to also announce two very prestigious additions to our board. Paul Maycock and Dave McDowell.
Further additions will be announced shortly.
As you can see, I did not choose a "yes-board" for ICP Solar. Paul and Dave held our feet to the fire as we discussed strategic directions and potential deals. Having these two by my side will help ensure that the strategies that ICP Solar understakes in the future are going to help ensure our long term success. And if today's market reaction to this little news is a gauge, it seems like we did something very right.
I'll begin blogging a big more about what I feel is the future of our industry shortly after the New Year. For the rest of this month, I've got to focus on my deliverables...as a CEO now beholden to thousands of investors, a board and a growing team which is depending on me for vision and direction.
Sass
Posted by sass at 05:23 PM | Comments (0)
October 31, 2006
Sunshine Returns to ICP Solar
Nothing really more to add than this journalist for the local Montreal Gazette newspaper hasn't said!
Its great to be moving ahead on our business plan with new team members, a new approach to the solar power market, new funding and new partners who understand the distinction between the stuff they were buying before, and the products from ICP Solar they'll now be offering!
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:43 AM | Comments (0)
October 04, 2006
ICP Solar Financial News
The news I could not specify in my last blog entry of September 29th is now out and available for reading on the ICP Solar website. The transaction only officially closed a few minutes after I had posted my last blog, and so begins a new life where I must be extremely judicious in what I publicize and when, lest it be construed as unfair publicity of information which has not been properly shared with shareholders of ICP.
For those who don't totally understand the event, ICP Solar, a company which has been privately held for over 18 years, is now a shared public entity, listed on the Nasdaq OTC exchange under symbol FCFN.OB. Anyone can now become a shareholder of ICP Solar as a result of this event.
Many wondered if I "knew what I was doing" in taking ICP Solar down the public path rather than having accepted numerous private equity offers received in past year. Frankly, in my mind, the public markets place a much higher value on solar entities than do private ones and our business plan is a very aggressive one which will change the nature of our group. Therefore, in my mind at least, it required a path which permitted us to have a new currency on which to trade, do business and be valued...public shares.
We have a great group of investors and a great team which will surely change/grow as a result of this liquidity event. To answer the question "was it the right move?"....ask me in a year's time for a more definitive response. So far, the overwhelming emails from clients, vendors and other partners are an early indication that many are pleased (some surprised) at this event for ICP Solar.
Sass
Posted by sass at 08:13 AM | Comments (0)
September 29, 2006
Our baby grows up....
This week is precisely 18 years after I founded ICP in 1988. How fitting therefore that today is the day in which we concluded an agreement to open up shareholding of ICP Solar to all team members and the public at large. Through a proposed merger with a publicly traded company, ICP Solar will heretofore become a shared-ownership entity, with thousands of partners to whom myself and colleagues will be accountable for the deliverance of value.
I think that this day begs a word or two of appreciation, for it is appreciation and respect that keep us humble. Where to start? Perhaps with those who gave me the fire, tenacity and genes as a head-start in the business world in which I chose to enter. There is no doubt that those that know my father recognize a trait which drives his eldest son to pursue his dreams and visions. Let there be no doubt that I recognize him for that gift, amongst others. As for my mother, it is clear that when I think of "seeing the positives" in challenging times, then she is clearly one of the inspirations that believes that the sun is always behind the clouds.
Then there is the person who has been at my side, shoulder to shoulder, for over 20 years, helping me believe in myself no matter the difficulties of our challenges. My wife and partner is one incredible source of energy, which I am blessed with. Thanks Renee, I know who the "wind beneath my wings" has been...
And as I went through the roller coaster of preparing ICP Solar for this day, there have been numerous people who have helped shape its future. To my pleasant surprise, the most influential person in this regard joined ICP just 10 months ago. Without a partner like Arlene Ades, I could not have gotten through the demands of the past year, as we restructured our organization and drove to success and excellence through the adoption of business practices she brought with her after decades of corporate training at Pitney Bowes. Just one month into her mandate, Arlene's belief in our vision was one reason why I refused what looked like an attractive take-over offer, yet pales in comparison to the exciting event which has taken place today. As for the rest of the "Team ICP", I thank all of the extended family (blood or not) which has been by our side through any part of the past, with particular mention of my younger brother who has helped me in many ways.
So today the child becomes adult. We'll make a more substantial announcement in the next few days. It's a new day for ICP Solar, as OUR company will be strengthened to take on even greater opportunities that lay awaiting us in this rising industry, and quite frankly, a day which I have quite openly desired for years. Happy Birthday ICP Solar! It's time for you to fly...
Solar regards,
Sass
PS. To the new team of stakeholders, accountants, lawyers, investors and anyone else who helped us get here today.. a big THANKS for believing in our dream!
Posted by sass at 12:24 PM | Comments (2)
July 21, 2006
A solar team comes together...,
Recently, one of our most cherished team members required a sabbatical for personal reasons. Given the strategic importance of this person's position, upper management was very concerned about how we'd react, particularly in this period of extensive vacation breaks and therefore skeletal staff. (With Montreal having two seasons, winter and "vacation", we tend to have block vacations taken together, which stretch customer service resources).
Well, I must say that after one week, it's been an incredible story of determination, loyalty, commitment and "can do" attitude. Tremendous credit goes out to team members like MikeO, LucG, RhodynaJ, IreneZ, MuminulC,GordT, BarbaraF, and SteveC who simply came together, took over the tasks that had been left stranded and proved once again the resilience of our ICP Solar team.
You see so many commercials touting that their company's difference is their "team". Well in this case, I can truly say that I had little to do with this success, and frankly, nothing can make me prouder than to pass the credit to the entire team who made it happen. You guys are showing just what true grit ICP is made of. Bravo.
Sass
PS. To that so-valued-team-member who is taking the break, you know how much I care and value what you have done for ICP Solar and hope that the future has something great in store for you, (with us or not). Take good care of yourself first, we'll be ready to welcome you with open arms if you ever are able to come back. And despite the fact that we've managed things, nobody can quite replace you and what you mean to us. Arlene, myself and the entire team wish you well...
Posted by sass at 06:09 PM | Comments (0)
March 21, 2006
Welcome back to Chuckie and A-man!
Two people who have over the years contributed not only to ICP's customer service levels but also our reputation for superior marketing are Charles Gelinas and Anthony Bejermi. Well..after a small time away from ICP...THEY'RE BAAAAAAAAAAAACK!
Just a quick note to welcome you tremendous duo back to ICP Solar. I am looking forward to working with you as we ascend to the pinnacle of extreme customer care and superior marketing efforts. If anyone ever "got it" at ICP Solar, you two were amongst that crowd. It's almost the same feeling one has with regards to customers. Its one thing to get one, its a whole other feeling to get one back. So far in 2005-2006, we're counting two of those (customers and team members) who have returned to ICP. Wonder if it's because they all missed me? NOT!
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:12 PM | Comments (0)
January 08, 2006
Bueno Ano Nuevas
As some of my regular readers may have noticed, I not only fulfilled my promise to stay off the internet (well, to be honest, 90% off...) but I also did not attend the Consumer Electronics Show for the first time in 18 years of leading ICP. Two weeks in the sun playing tennis each day with my kids was just what the doctor ordered (Dr. Renee, my wife) to regain my normal breathing patterns.
Arlene and I jointly decided that she would lead the team at CES and what a marvelous job she obviously did. Not only did our client, vendor and rep partners "eat her up", I believe they also were in awe when viewing the Sunsei line in all its glory in one location.
The CES show was the most attended ever and it is apparent from initial reports, that it was a huge success. Despite a relatively poor booth placement, it was buzzing at ICP Solar all show long!
So a great set of kudos to Arlene, Randy, Earl and Lisa for a great job. 2006 is looking "mucho bueno".
Sass Peress
Posted by sass at 04:36 PM | Comments (0)
December 17, 2005
Welcome, solar power partner!
Well after 18 years of total control and virtually sole ownership, ICP Solar and myself are blessed with a new partner.
Her name is Arlene Ades. She hails from a long history of professional accomplishments that are too long to mention. Growing up through the ranks of a professional sales organization for over 17 years, Arlene and I lived on the same block for almost 20 years. We grew up in the same community and share many of the same family and work-ethic values.
However it goes far beyond that. Arlene and I share a common vision which will become obvious to all as it's execution rolls out. We also share a dedication to make ICP Solar the #1 solar company to work for, the #1 solar company to work with, and the #1 solar company to trust.
Trust is a big issue with me, since I was robbed internally three years ago. It has also been the biggest hurdle to recover from. And yet Arlene has seen me go through much of that and as a result, understands from whence I come. Yet as importantly, Arlene is the consummate professional who brings process, rigor and a tough "take no prisoners" attitude in her work methods. She is a tremendous strategist and a HUGE asset to ICP.
Recently, her former team gave her a going away party that she still raves about. What did Arlene do? She brought a solar panel to the party, insisting to share a bit of where she was headed. From an industry in the world which is hundreds of billions to one that is just billions, to make such a move takes a huge leap of faith in me and in the solar industry's continuing growth path.
I can't speak for the solar industry, but I can speak for myself. Arlene, I hope I won't disappoint. I can promise you it will be a fun ride filled with opportunity and challenge.
Welcome aboard partner. It's not a moment too soon...
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:24 AM | Comments (1)
December 16, 2005
Solar Power Camper
Now if I told you there was a solar powered RV in the parking lot of the recent RV show in Kentucky, you'd probably wonder how that worked. Frankly speaking, the RV pictured in this blog entry was NOT solar powered, yet it professed all we are talking about in the simplicity about our new brand SUNSEI.
It certainly got the attention of many of the visitors at the show as a "different" way to promote solar in this industry. Whereas 75% of RVs that are made in Australia come off the production line with solar panels already installed, the percentage in the USA is negligible. That is changing though. The RV you see in the picture is a Winnebago, a company that has just expanded its program with ICP Solar.
Peace, quiet, value, worry-free, easy, reliable, flexible, quality. All attritubes one may find in our solar panel selection. You didn't see the word "cheap" though. I am a firm believer that "cheap" is "expensive". You figure it out.
Sass
Posted by sass at 08:49 PM | Comments (1)
December 09, 2005
The solar energy within.
What a difference a year makes! Last year we were caught in a spiral due to fake solar products entering our main market in North America and thus a margin squeeze. With layoffs last December, you can imagine the mood at the "holiday party".
Well one year later, and "vive la difference" is all I can say. We had our annual party this week and what a lively, fun and upbeat event it was! Nobody put a lampshade on their heads, although Richard did wear a pink "boa" necklace and did one of the best "yabadabadoos" (part of our corporate initiation process to newbies).
It has been just a fabulous week. The acceptance of our new solar brand SUNSEItm has been outstanding. Yes, people are literally SCREAMING for more and we're pumping up the factory production (luckily we have our own solar cell factory to drive). It's good that this is happening now rather than "in season" so we have the time to catch up. We shipped huge lots this week of SunseiTM and as you all know, the market is just so wiped out of solar supply that we have all kinds of requests each day for more.
More solar price increases are threatened worldwide by the silicon based industry, so its going to be an interesting January. I guess you can say that the "energy within" our company and solar industry is going to new heights... :)
Sass
Posted by sass at 06:43 AM | Comments (0)
December 05, 2005
Loving what you do, doing what you love...
It's a real privilege to walk into an office each morning loving what the day is going to bring. ICP Solar like many companies caught in a major market shift, had a hard time keeping that spirit going. The necessary staff changes took a definite toll on the team. Imagine changing brands, products, manufacturing locations all within a few months time. But now we've done it and we are finally reaping the rewards. How do I define them?
Well, I have a brand new equity and managing partner in the solar business. SHE is amazing. The energy level at the office just skyrocketed today and I hope that is translated across the water to our UK and EU partners shortly. The office is buzzing as we began to ship the solar SunseiTM products last month and the demand keeps growing (largest order book in our entire history).
The greatest accomplishment of any leader is to be able to have his team take the credit whilst he exerts gentle influence on the company's direction and supports his/her team in their efforts. Just as giving ownership to a consumer of your brand is one of the best things you can do (if your brand stands for an expectation beyond all others), giving credit where its due (your team) is a great sign of having reached a level of leadership that one can label as successful.
I have much work to do in that regard, yet with enthusiasm I take that challenge each day. Our factory has achieved productivity and quality neverbefore seen from its machines and our team is busier producing plate at a torrid pace compared to years gone by. We've never run at four shifts and are about to turn on that tap. And nothing can make them happier than having to work hard to satisfy the demand that our marketing partner Twist Image helped us create through a tremendous branding initiative. Now our objective is to surpass the expectation of the brand with delivery, service, quality and ethics every step of the way.
We're not used to having to stay open Christmas week to satisfy demand. These are the woes a CEO dreams of...
La vita bella,
Sass
Posted by sass at 08:51 PM | Comments (0)
December 01, 2005
Yeehaaa......
So there we were, riding around in our RV with our Sunsei brand plastered all over the Winnebago in Louisville, Kentucky all week (pronounced LOOVILLE, as I quickly discovered). What a blast! So much so that I have been convinced by my wife and her partner in crime (Arlene the RV Queen) to go on an RV vacation this summer.
For those of you who know me, you'll understand when I write that this a big leap for me. Despite the fact that ICP Solar is the only accredited vendor to Winnebago for their RV's, I have never in fact ridden inside one, until this week in LOOVILLE. We were there supporting our distributors. I even received a nice visit from Terry of Camping World. He is a true gentleman who knows how to keep a door open. I admire that a lot in businesspeople.
In fact, I would say that the vast majority of people I have been exposed to in the RV industry are very down to earth, honest and ethical people. Perhaps its the influence of the RV lifestyle itself.
Anyhoooo, we had a good time, received a tremendous welcome to our new products and are very pumped about 2006's potential to once again turn the RV industry on its head when it comes to solar offerings. Hey, I guess every 5 years I wake up and say "its time to turn something on its head". As long as its not me, I'm OK with that!
C'yaah (they also drop the "LL" from "y'all" in Kentucky),
Sass
PS. We also had an interesting adventure with the built-in generator in the RV (We had not time to install solar!). It made so much noise and rumbling that we chose instead to turn off the appliances that were using it instead of running it. Great first hand experience at how solar can be a lifestyle enhancer! Power without fuel, direct from the sun!
Posted by sass at 04:34 PM | Comments (0)
November 02, 2005
Pop, Pop, Fizz, Fizz....
...and you know the rest of the jingle!
It's like the day after the one before. What a relief! With a few glitches (will all be fixed in the coming days) our website launched yesterday at 1PM ET. We've received a number of reviews, and they are overwhelmingly positive. What we hope is that we give people an experience like no other in solar and from that you, our customer, gains the confidence to partner with ICP whether as a reseller or consumer.
In fact the most critical person (constructively of course)has been my wife. Being the Victoria's Secret and other fashion online shops guru, she took a look at our site and gave me a few good hints on how to make it more enjoyable. Now if you were me, would you take that advice?
Sass
Posted by sass at 07:17 AM | Comments (0)
November 01, 2005
Sunsei Solar Power Sunshine is rising...
Well, we are finally at the start line my team and I have been looking forward to for a long time.
After months of strategizing, investigating, developing and now preparing to deliver a new brand, new products, new website and even many changes within our company... we made it. The start line to this "F1 race" was always defined by me as November 1st. We now have the best car and the best driver. Our pit crew is ready to handle the onslaught of added business and just today, we injected the gasoline into the engine required for this race. Leadership doesn't come cheap and this exercise has demanded a lot. Yet, it is so overwhelming that the largest influx of investment ever in our history has just been secured to ensure we now deliver on the great promise and expectation we are about to create.
Imagine changing so much in so little time. No doubt it created much anxiety along the way, but I think you'll agree that the new ICP "gets it".
We'll soon know if we get the consumers to whom we have been listening attentively for many months and now structured our offerings according to their lifestyle and needs, rather than simply what the technology can do.
We'll soon know if we get the trade customers who told us that delivery, quality, distinction and margins were of tantamount importance in growing business together.
For the first time in the history of our solar cell factory, it's at full capacity! There is no secret formula except to say that we are now targeting customers who have the highest standards for specifications. They have discovered that our gospel is matched by our product quality. The development and factory team in Wales deserves huge kudos and I am personally grateful for their continued efforts and success.
And so today (sometime during the day because not all internet service providers pick up the new site at the same time) we turn on a tap at ICP SOLAR or SUNSEI SOLAR websites, and wait to see the results. I feel like a father in a birthing room. I can't do the mechanics, the baby is not inside me, but man can I savor the moment that baby comes out and gives new meaning to our corporate vision and future life. The change is not simply philosophical either!
We have also opened a webstore, similar to the AppleStore. While some may say that this is competing with our own customers, nothing is farther from the truth. The webstore is more like a mechanism to give us further consumer insight into our products. Imagine launching a new item, shipping it to a distributor (30 days), they then sell it to a dealer (30 days) who then sells it to a consumer (30-60days). It could therefore take up to 120 days before we'd know that our new products had an issue. We simply could not afford that. So the webstore gives us direct and immediate feedback on new products, while also helping to pay for the website investment (huge!) that we have obviously made. And while the ICP site was sending just a few hundred visitors to other sites, our retail partners get MILLIONS of visitors each month. So you can see that the effect is negligible on the retail side yet its very important on the side of complete customer service. Nevertheless, we'll also be improving our "FIND A DEALER" section in the coming weeks as more and more pick up the new SUNSEI line. Besides, we'll never undercut our retail-partners. Now THAT would be suicide!
To Mitch Joel and the Twist Image team, thanks! You've given so much to get here (and put up with a lot too!).
Sass
PS> Special thanks to Howard Firestone for the intro to Twist. Life will never be the same!
Posted by sass at 04:34 AM | Comments (3)
October 21, 2005
Solar Suction
One of my pet peeves is seeing a whole bunch of portable solar chargers on the market for mobile phones that are designed without even a clue as to how the user will use them.
Somebody basically took two solar cells, put them in a case and added a connector. It reminds me of a trip I took to Asia years ago with the first prototype of our iSun solar charger. I was on a plane from Tokyo to Hong Kong and my Ericsson T28 phone was dead. So I took out the prototype and held it to the window of the plane while the phone was sitting in the pouch of the seat in front of me.
I must have looked like a clod! Sitting in my chair, holding the unit up against the window. Well you guessed it, that lasted all of 5 minutes before I got tired. Lo and behold, I had the first experience with our new product and I was frustrated. Imagine someone who just spent their hard earned cash on what seemed like a good idea. So we simply added suction cups. You heard it, simple solution to a simple problem. And yet our product management team had not thought of it.
This brings me to a point I've been debating. Where does product management differ from product development? In a cradle to grave model of business, it doesn't. The Product Manager in a consumer products company belongs in Marketing. In an industrial products company, the PM belongs in engineering. He/she understands the market and seeks out solutions. The PM in a consumer products unit engages a cross functional team to develop products, marketing campaigns and sales efforts that are coordinated. Some call it a Project Coordinator. In essence, its all about really knowing your customer's needs and wants.
All to come back to suction cups. If you don't hear the sounds of your customers, your products may sell, but they won't last.
Sass
Posted by sass at 10:12 PM | Comments (1)
September 23, 2005
Here comes the bride...
Isabel is getting married tomorrow. She's my trusted assistant you may have read about in earlier blog entries. I can't imagine ICP without her and yet for two whole weeks she'll be away in Tuscany with her new husband Gary. I can't wait to see her walk down the aisle tomorrow and say "I do". Well, Issy, here are a few other questions to which you can consider that response to:
1. Do you know that you help me be a better CEO?
2. Do you know that you are a great contributor to the "social health" at ICP?
3. Do you know that we are all going to miss you for the two weeks you'll be gone?
4. Do you know that you are absolutely making a great choice tomorrow?
5. Do you know that no matter how hard you try to avoid me, I will insist on one dance with the bride tomorrow?
6. Do you take ICP, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer,
for better or worse, to be your lawfully wedded career for years to come? (Didn't want to write 'til death do you part only because you might consider killing me as a way out of that one)?
Smile and enjoy the moment Issy. We're all in your corner too.
Sass and company
Posted by sass at 06:42 AM | Comments (0)
September 06, 2005
David and Goliath
ICP Solar welcomed a new and important member today. He's David Johnston, former VP Operations at Ballard Power and Chief Operating Officer at Ballard's Stationary Power Division. "DJ" (as I have nicknamed him) has led many energy companies operations and has joined ICP as Chief Operating Officer. He'll be taking over all operational aspects of the company while I am freed to be involved in financing, innovation, corporate vision and "helicopter" views, which as CEO I need to be. A CEO can't drive the vision if he's stuck on the ground floor. I need to be on top of the ladder seeing what lies ahead for our company. Freedom is what comes to mind when I describe my feeling today when it was announced internally at HQ. David is part of the "A-team" I am building to deliver on our mission to be "The customer's choice in power solutions based on solar technologies". And now I can write as many solar blogs as I can think of because that's what I will be relegated to? Well maybe not so fast..
Coincidentally, ICP received confirmation today of its largest OEM contract ever. We took on a "goliath" competitor. Yet our innovation, value-proposition and quality-management team were our "modern day sling" which won the customer over. Team ICP, the best is yet to come...
Sass
Posted by sass at 09:41 PM | Comments (0)
August 25, 2005
Raise da Roof..
The solar slate we've all been waiting for is finally about to be placed on new roofs for beta testing. This is the beginning of a new era in solar power for homes. It looks like a roof, installs like a roof, and maybe we'll even make it smell like a roof (they say that products which attract all senses win more hearts, minds and wallets!).
Yesterday, this article appeared in our local paper. The kudos belong to Tony, Phil, Randy, Tom, Chris and everyone attached to this great team that is bringing it to market. Spain will be the first install. And with the initiatives coming to Canada...who knows but maybe we'll soon see a solar roof in our neck of the woods. One thing for sure, it will be like "finding Waldo", since you won't be able to tell the roof tiles from the solar one...
Sass
PS. The solar panel you see me holding is our "formerly known as" 18Watt unit. We're taking the same marketing approach as "Prince" did..until we release its new name!
Posted by sass at 03:20 PM | Comments (1)
July 06, 2005
The Suns of change are shining...
Here I am at Lac a L'eau Claire, in Quebec, Canada, attending the annual ICP Solar Sales and Marketing sessions. At these pow-wows, our teams from all regions and company areas get together once a year to discuss the changes for the next year. This year something amazing has occurred...we have all 3 areas of our company (Solar Consumer Products, Solar Cells and Solar Construction Materials) slated to grow at the same time and the energy is simply so energizing, that I can't wait to get out with our sales teams to spread the news of what's coming to the market soon.
New products, new branding, new channels, new logistics, new production capacity, new ERP system... all coming online within months. A mammoth task that I know my team is up to. Its so energizing listening to this tremendously qualified team. During one of the breaks, we got word that our biggest potential customer was just confirmed. Its immediate needs and pipeline potential has 10 times the forecast of our largest previous client. Our issue will be supply to a market already starving.
Remember the Santa at Macy's who referred the kids and their moms to other stores? Macy's sales skyrocketed as it began to sell things through the increased visits simply because it became a one-stop-shop for information, not simply product. Guess what happened? People walking in and out almost always bought something else they did not come for. So ICP will be the same.
We'll share our plans with the market in the coming months and be honest with those that we can't partner with, and those that we can, simply due to capacity. Those that cannot be supplied will be referred to other ethical vendors. And because competition at the low end has been hobbled by recent independant tests and increased rigor in rating reporting, the situation will only serve to aggravate the demand for honestly-rated cells and products. Retailers who previously did not think twice about selling fake-rated items, will now be forced to do so. Manufacturers who now make fake-rated items will lose markets everywhere. The pressure for new production capacity will rise once again.
Such excitement..I think I'll go jump in the lake right next to the hotel to cool off! Oh, before I forget, check out this link created by Gregg Cohen, latest addition to the ICP team. This file perfectly reflects the spirit this week: Download file
Tata for now,
Sass
Posted by sass at 04:26 PM | Comments (0)
June 14, 2005
Au Revoir, Amazing Solar Annie
A new beginning for a dear friend and colleague. Annie Tam has worked with me for over 6 years in Hong Kong and recently in Adelaide, Australia. It became clear that it was impossible for her to achieve her usual level of excellence in managing our Asian operations from Adelaide due to the need for proximity to component supply and sub-contractors, and so with my full support and understanding, she's embarking on a new life path. Its sad for ICP, yet I am so happy for her.
Annie leaves with head high knowing she helped ICP make some of the more difficult changes the markets demanded in order to become a leaner, meaner fighting machine. Since change is the only constant (are you tired of seeing me write that yet?) then this move for Annie and ICP are simply a part of the roadmap of our lives which we must embrace.
I've always called Annie my "chinese sister" and she'll always be that to me. A great giver to all that surround her. We all love you Annie and wish you the best that life has to offer in your new opportunities.
Tata for now,
Sass
Posted by sass at 05:21 PM | Comments (0)