ENG. Sami Safran, the CEO of MEPCO, the Middle East and Africa’s leading vertically-integrated paper manufacturer, ws recognized as one of the Top 100 CEOs in the Arab World at the Arab Best Awards, hosted in Marrakesh, Morocco. The honor was announced at an award ceremony held last Nov. 27, attended by sheikhs, princes, ministers, and prominent business figures from across the GCC. The Arab Best Awards recognized excellence by identifying distinguished Arab leaders and Arab institutions that have achieved prominence across a variety of sectors. MEPCO’s accolade was awarded on the basis of a grading system that considered key criteria including Management/Organization, CSR/Societal Services and Innovation & Learning, among other metrics. Eng. Safran said: “I am pleased to have been recognized on behalf of MEPCO, particularly in the company of such a distinguished group of award winners and nominees. This award marks a significant milestone for our company, and crystallizes the collective efforts that our organization has made together. MEPCO has become the region’s leading vertically integrated paper manufacturer, and our commitment to environmentally and socially sustainable production practices has been an essential part of that journey.” Saudi Arabia-based MEPCO is among the world’s foremost manufacturers and suppliers of high-quality paper products, having realized approximately 700% sales growth in 15 years. The company exports to more than 40 countries internationally, in addition to occupying a dominant share of the Saudi and wider GCC markets. — SG