Inside Asian Gaming recently announced local project delivery and construction services firm Bobadilla Group Macau (BGM) as Title Sponsor of the 2021 Asian Gaming Power 50 Black Tie Gala Dinner Official After Party on Friday 5 November 2021. BGM’s Project Development Manager, Laranja Iris Bobadilla Vera Carter, provides some insight into the company’s unique operations.
IAG: Bobadilla Group Macau was recently named Title Sponsor of the 2021 Asian Gaming Power 50 Black Tie Gala Dinner Official After Party at Wynn Palace. What attracted you to the Power 50?
LC: Honestly when I first saw your advertisement, I told myself “Yeah I’ll sponsor”. Then I got worried that Bobadilla Group Macau would not qualify as it has nothing to do with gaming but I thought I’d give it a try anyway. The whole event was put together to be very lively and it got me excited for a party like this. We have been stuck here in Macau and there’s been no live entertainment and no other place to go. I was starving for a party and can’t wait to dress up!
IAG: The Power 50 Gala Dinner has been growing bigger and better every year, and now the inclusion of an Official After Party is part of that. What are you most looking forward to at the After Party?
LC: It’s going to be at the Wynn Palace pool, yes? Can we swim? I’m looking forward to kicking on into the next party and getting to know more people in the industry. I’m also interested to see who will be the first person in the pool!
IAG: We’re honoured to have BGM on board this year. Can you tell us a bit about the history of the company?
LC: Initially Bobadilla started with Macau local labour and plant hire, including heavy and light machinery for the construction industry. After working with so many companies from Macau and Europe, I decided to expand the company to include specialised niche services which Macau seems to lack, and that is Theatrical Automation installations and ongoing operation.
I had a chance to hire Chuck Freyer as BGM’s Automation Manager and this gives me more confidence in keeping the company in maintenance and operation contracts. We have now hired Ryan Jones as Automation Director to strengthen our delivery capabilities. Both are very experienced in automation. These two gentlemen alone have more than 40 years combined experience in the Theatrical Automation Industry and have worked with nearly every major venue in town. Growing from there, I have expanded the team and have dedicated staff who are able to effectively and efficiently complete projects safely, on time and to clients’ expectations.
IAG: BGM certainly wears many hats. What are the various services you provide?
LC: Oh a few hats for sure, but not too many! We provide various construction services, theatrical automation, engineering and operational services, storage services – both indoors and outdoors – land hire, rigging services and design consultancy services.
IAG: There continues to be considerable development in Macau, particularly in regards to integrated resorts. What are the main projects in this sector that BGM has worked on and what involvement did the company specifically have on these projects?
LC: BGM works with contractors, suppliers and client groups locally in Macau and offshore. We put together delivery solutions for our clients including installation of FF&E, themed artwork, automation engineering, programming and maintenance. Some of our key projects have been Flip Out at Studio City; Crystal Palace at The Londoner; rigging, installation and automation of the Balloon Display in retail at Grand Lisboa Palace; automation works at the Catwalk Garden at Grand Lisboa Palace; aquarium installation at MGM Cotai; and fit out, mechanical automation and labour supplies for the House of Magic and Golden Reel at Studio City. We have also provided automations and skilled labour supplies for the House of Dancing Water at City of Dreams, and for Wynn Palace, MGM Theater in Cotai and Galaxy Macau.
IAG: What are the main challenges when it comes to developing integrated resorts in Macau?
LC: One of the most challenging aspects is the tender process. Most corporations just look at a dollar amount, not the capability of the company doing the job. I have seen many projects go under or be extended for what feels like forever because a company went with the lowest bid, not realizing it will cost them so much more in the long run.
IAG: You mentioned that BGM is known for theatrical construction work in Macau. What does this involve?
LC: Surprisingly a lot. This is a combination of theme artwork and engineering, so two fields of discipline. Each one has their exacting standards and it takes dedication and discipline to integrate them together. We are merging art and engineering on a daily basis.
IAG: Finally, for anyone in need of project management or any of the other services you provide, why is BGM the best choice?
LC: Our dedication to the project. No matter what is needed we shall give it the full attention it deserves to deliver the best product imaginable.
