UK-based energy group BP has discovered a major new oilfield in the Gulf of Mexico.

UK-based energy group BP has discovered a major new oilfield in the Gulf of Mexico.

PetroChina has agreed to buy a 60 percent stake in two Canadian oil sands projects for $1.7 billion.  The Chinese state-owned firm, which is AsiaÔÇÖs largest oil and gas operation, bought the holdings from Canadian firm Athabasca Oil Sands (AOSC).

Al Habtoor Leighton Group has won a QR750 million (Ôé¼145 million) contract to build new water stations in two Qatari communities, it has been announced.

Houston-based energy services company Baker Hughes has agreed to acquire its smaller rival BJ Services for $5.5 billion, it has been announced. The deal, which could be concluded by as early as the fourth quarter of this year, will boost Baker HughesÔÇÖ position among the industryÔÇÖs other big players such as Schlumberger and Halliburton. Acquiring BJ Services, also based in Houston, will enable Baker Hughes to offer a wider range of servicesÔÇöa key capability that energy companies such as Exxon Mobil and Chevron are increasingly seeking when hiring contractors. The de

Investing in learning
Volkswagen South Africa is taking the subject of training and individual development exceedingly seriously, with massive sums being invested, as Alan Swaby learns.
There was a good deal of criticism about the South African governmentÔÇÖs early attempts at redressing the countryÔÇÖs economic balance. A handful of black entrepreneurs did very well for themselves but the vast majority of ordinary people were no better off than ever they had been.

Industrious Italians
In an economy dominated by two tribes, outsiders often found it tough to make a way in South Africa. But hard work usually pays offÔÇöand it has for the family behind Scribante Construction, as Alan Swaby learns.

The attraction of outsourcing
Minopex works in the mining industry but as Alan Swaby learns, it prefers to see itself as part of the service industry.

Self-propelled
Lamprell grew from buccaneering opportunist to substantial global oilfield service provider over three decades and in 2008 returned its best results ever. But scale alters the case and the company is making radical changes to meet new market realities. John OÔÇÖHanlon looks at some achievements and challenges.