By
Theodoros Kioukas |
Since it was created as a traditional family enterprise in Piraeus, Greece, in 1960 by Markos Kioukas, Decon has been involved in a wide range of vessel interior outfitting projects. Decon has the experience and the knowledge to undertake projects in their entirety, covering the full range of the project scope requirements. The basis of our success is that we strictly implement the terms, scope, time schedule and financial arrangements of any agreement.
Another key factor in Decon’s growth is our strong production base, which is situated in Athens, Greece, and includes 5,000 covered square metres of factory facilities including steel, carpentry and painting departments. Having an in-house design department is a great asset for the company because daily communication and feedback between our design and production departments enables us to adapt to any client’s requirements. In addition, we monitor production schedules weekly, so we can update clients about the progress of their project. Meanwhile, our quality control and continuous research and development activities enable us to secure the up-to-date machinery, provide new materials, and develop innovative construction techniques.
By staying abreast of technological developments and observing new safety requirements, Decon has been approved and certified with ISO 9001 and MODULE ‘D’ by Bureau Veritas International. All materials we use are also subject to the Safety of Life at Sea regulations.
Throughout the years, Decon has successfully worked on projects to supply and outfit passenger vessels, ro-ro ferries, cruise vessels and luxury yachts. We specialise in the installation of balustrades, bar counters, fixed furniture and detailed decorations, as well as outfitting public toilets, installing teak decks, and carrying out glasswork, plumbing and upholstery. These capabilities make Decon a top turnkey marine outfitter for public spaces such as casinos, theatres, lounges, restaurants, cabins and outdoor areas.
To successfully deliver such projects, we know that we need to have more than just technical know-how; it’s mandatory that we also have a strong and flexible management strategy. After carrying out work in Korea, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Germany and France, Decon is capable of operating a fully functional on-site office, providing clients with stand-by support whenever they require it.
Decon also has a longstanding partnership with Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. Having established the Decon France branch in 2007, the company now owns a warehouse near to the yard for stocking materials, allowing it to quickly fulfil urgent requests from clients.
The capacity of the company overall is also remarkable; over the past few years we have been working on multiple projects per year for major cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean International, MSC Cruises and Celebrity Cruises.
All of these achievements would never have happened without devoted employees, the company’s most valuable resource. Decon’s strong belief is making things happen together, working and performing eagerly and creating a healthy and content environment for its people, partners and customers.
Theodoros Kioukas is CEO and owner of Decon
This article was first published in the Spring/Summer 2023 issue of Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed. Subscribe to Cruise & Ferry Review for FREE here to get the next issue delivered directly to your inbox or your door.