Johnson Controls, the globally renowned company in smart, healthy and sustainable building solutions, together with Matrix, a global technology solutions provider, will equip the new headquarters of the Discount Group, near Tel Aviv, in Israel, with its OpenBlue digital platform technologies, in order to create new possibilities for operational energy efficiency, occupant comfort and sustainability in a dynamic solution.
Discount Group’s new HQ
One of the leading financial institutions in Israel, Discount Group’s new HQ Campus will provide the home base for the Group’s three main entities – Israel Discount Bank, Israel Credit Cards Ltd. (CAL) and Mercantile Discount Bank.
This modern campus with three 8-story buildings, built over two shared floors, will be a major milestone in the Group's history and a landmark building complex in the Rishon LeZion area. It includes the construction of approximately 150,000 square meters of floor space and basements and is expected to house about 4,500 employees and guests, along with some 200 external service providers.
OpenBlue solutions deployed
The complexity of the campus and the desire for an innovative and user-experience oriented building design, are two of the reasons why Matrix and Discount Group decided to choose Johnson Controls and its OpenBlue solutions.
The complete solution will also include the design, implementation and integration, by Matrix
The complete solution will also include the design, implementation and integration, by Matrix, of a range of complementary systems that will facilitate the control and management of a smart campus that will be sustainable, efficient and user-experience driven.
Tailoring the project scope to the specific needs of the Discount Group, Matrix will use its unique capabilities to deliver a comprehensive solution that will enhance the user experience of staff and visitors alike.
Implementing smart building solutions
As part of an ongoing relationship, Johnson Controls works with Microsoft to deliver OpenBlue solutions and applications in Microsoft Azure. The collaboration continues to focus on implementing smart building solutions that deliver key outcomes for customers like the Discount Group.
Johnson Controls will deploy its next-generation technologies and solutions, such as its OpenBlue Net Zero Buildings portfolio, which enables customers to achieve their sustainability strategy and goals that can drive significant improvements in energy efficiency and corresponding carbon emissions.
OpenBlue Enterprise Manager
This includes OpenBlue Enterprise Manager – a comprehensive suite of applications, designed to monitor and improve energy efficiency, tenant satisfaction, asset performance, maintenance operations, space performance and ultimately, the comfort of all occupants.
Johnson Controls will also be deploying its OpenBlue Companion app for all campus occupants. This will help create an enhanced, harmonized experience for employees and visitors, as they use the building and its grounds – from parking, to meeting rooms to the cafeteria.
Cost savings on energy and maintenance
Overall, Johnson Controls' OpenBlue solutions will enable Discount Group to save money on energy and maintenance
Overall, Johnson Controls' OpenBlue solutions will enable Discount Group to save money on energy and maintenance, in order to meet their sustainability targets, attract talent, and offer an attractive place for employees and customers.
Tomas Brannemo, the Vice President & President - Building Solutions EMEALA, at Johnson Controls, said “We are very pleased to be partnering with Discount Group and Matrix, implementing our OpenBlue solutions, to deliver buildings ready for the future, where sustainability, smart readiness and efficiency are core assets.”
Cutting carbon emissions with optimized building systems
Tomas Brannemo adds, “We have created a business fully dedicated to sustainability, delivering technologies and creating partnerships for decarbonizing buildings. The building sector accounts for nearly 40 percent of global annual CO2 emissions, so there is no tackling climate change, without substantial investment in buildings. We have the technologies to cut carbon emissions today that optimizes building systems and cuts both, emissions and costs."
Asaf Givati, the Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chairman of Subsidiaries at Matrix, said “With this project – a first of its kind in Israel – Matrix cements its position as a leading integrator of cutting-edge solutions. Complementing Johnson Controls' deep knowledge and innovative solution, matrix has vast experience in large project management, together with a wide range of technology capabilities.”
Cyber operational technology
Asaf Givati adds, “As well as infrastructure, cloud, cyber, user experience, system analysis and system integration, we also bring expertise in the emerging field of cyber operational technology, which is so key to the cyber defense of modern building management systems.”
Assaf Eldar, the Chief Operations Officer (COO), at Israel Discount Bank, said “Our new HQ Campus is designed to connect the capabilities of Discount Group, while enabling our employees, customers and visitors to enjoy an innovative, technological, safe and pleasant environment, as well as promoting our values of human centricity and environmental sustainability, through leading technology.”
Johnson Controls – Matrix partner in project implementation
Assaf Eldar adds, “In selecting Johnson Controls and Matrix to carry out this important project for us, we look forward to reaping the benefits that only a collaboration between three such companies can bring, in terms of cutting-edge technology, flawless implementation, and the highest levels of security.”
