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Developing new markets
By Syed M. Aslam
Apr 07 - 13, 2003
Pakistan houses about 2.4 per cent of the world population but its share in the global pharma market is unproportionately low 0.31 per cent. Despite the low share, the Pakistani pharmaceutical industry, otherwise, is well developed not only to meet local demand but to also exports its products to over 90 countries last year.
Though growth trends in the pharmaceutical industry differs from country to country, the global market of pharmaceutical industry has been on a constant rise — from $ 307 billion in 1998 to $ 339 billion in 1999 and to almost $ 363 billion in 2000. It was projected to grow to $ 408 billion last year. For details please look at the chart.
The US is the single biggest pharmaceutical market of the world. In 2000 it enjoyed a market share of almost 42 per cent while Japan was a distant second with 16 per cent of the market share worldwide. Germany, France and UK were the third, fourth and fifth biggest markets respectively at 4.7, 4.6 and 3 per cent respectively. Pakistan with around $ 918 million worth of sales lags far behind not only to the developed countries but against many developing countries.
The review of Pakistani pharmaceutical show that there are around 450 companies which are registered with the Ministry of Health, some 350 manufacturing units operating in the country including dozen multinationals. Multinational pharmaceutical companies have played a vital role to provide the base for the growth of the pharmaceutical industry since the emergence of Pakistan an independent country on the map of the world almost 56 years ago. They also enjoyed the bulk of the business, and keep enjoying it presently, though their collective market share has dropped significantly during last 18 years. In 1985, the MNCs enjoyed 65 per cent of the market share while the national companies had 35 per cent of it. The national pharmaceutical companies have since improved their market share by an average 1.2 per cent every year to push it to 53 per cent in 2000 and this 18 per cent gain has come at the cost of MNCs whose collective share has dropped by an equal percentage to 47 per cent during the same period. Thus in 2000, the share of national companies stood at 53 per cent, 6 per cent more than that of the MNCs.
Besides improving their market share within the country, the national pharmaceutical companies, about 20 in all, are also actively engaged in exploring new markets for their products overseas. Though pharma exports from Pakistan have been going on for last two decades, it remained negligible just about half a decade ago. It has only picked up in recent years to touch a significant figure of $ 40.6 million in 1999-2000, the highest exports ever. However, trends of pharma exports from Pakistan reeks of inconsistent performance — pharma exports dropped to $ 37.7 million in 2000-01 only to surpass it negligibly to $ 38.7 million a year later in 2001-2002. The inconsistent performance of pharma exports is visible from the Table forming part of this article.
So what could explain the inconsistent performance of pharma exports? Muhammad Younus Batla, the general manager exports of national pharmaceutical, Nabi Qasim, attribute it to a pervasive absence of export-orientation on the part of the pharma industry, particularly the national companies only a small segment of whom are actively engaged in exports. His view is shared by Wahid Raza Shami, manager export of another such company, ATCO Laboratories.
But 'attitude' is just one the reasons discouraging expansion of the base of pharma exports. To better understand the situation it is imperative to look at the major markets of the Pakistani pharmaceutical products. As mentioned earlier, Pakistan exported almost $ 39 million worth of pharmaceutical products in fiscal 2001-2002. Though little, what is significant about this is that Africa emerged as the top destination of Pakistani pharma products absorbing over 44 per cent of total exports to surpass exports to the Asia region which contributed 39 per cent to the total exports. A year earlier in 2000-01 Asia was the top region of the exports absorbing 35.6 per cent closely followed by 34.9 per cent by Africa.
In 2001-02, the top five destinations of pharma exports were Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Singapore, UK and Dubai. These five countries, part of over 7 dozen others, collectively contributed $ 21.6 million or 53 per cent to the total exports last year. What has made the emergence of Africa region, led by Nigeria, significant is that Pakistani pharmaceutical products have been able to make inroads into the most populated markets in the African continent.
Successful penetration of the Nigerian market is a welcome sign indeed for a number of reasons: It is the most populated country in Africa with a GNP of around $ 38 billion and most important of all, its health care spending is around $ 9 per person. Pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria is limited to few multinational companies and it has to import drugs from other countries to meet the local demand.
Making inroads into Nigeria is also important from another perspectives. According to Mr. Batla, Nigeria offers two distinct benefits. Number one, it is an established trading hub for West Africa, particularly the pharmaceuticals to serve as a distribution point for the region. Number two, it itself is the biggest and the most populated country in Africa as mentioned earlier. The opening up of the Nigerian market, irrespective of the problems as we will highlight later, is a significant development indeed.
"This is because African continent offers an immense potential for pharma exports, particularly pharma manufacturing has still to take roots there and countries in the region are dependent on imports to bridge the ever widening gap between the supply and demand. True, that a beginning has been made but Negerian-led African market offers challenges unique to its own.
"Despite low consciousness about health mainly due to poverty, low local manufacturing, limited buying power and presence of expensive multinationals' products (like Pakistan MNCs are also comparatively expensive elsewhere) consumers of pharmaceuticals in Nigeria and the region are reluctant to comprise on quality. By and large they seem to prefer to compromise on price rather than on quality. That explains why Pakistan has been able to successfully make inroads into Nigeria despite stiff competition from India, which has been there all along, as well as from China, whose pharma products are comparatively cheaper than Pakistani counterparts. Pakistani products have also been able to make inroads in other similar markets."
As stated elsewhere, Pakistan exported pharmaceuticals to 92 countries last fiscal, 12 more than in the previous year. While value of exports to most of these markets is small, only thousands of dollars in the majority of cases and as low as just $ 1,000 in the case of Malawi, it added up to a respectable sum of $ 39 million. The very fact that Pakistani pharma exports have been able to find a welcome niche in many of these markets despite presence of cheaper Indian and Chinese counterparts in itself can be seen as an acheivement. That's, however, should not in anyway be allowed to become smug. Rather, it necessitates the need to solidify the position by further developing, nurturing and exploiting these markets to help push the value of pharma exports. The way the comparatively higher priced Pakistani pharmaceuticals have been able to find receptive markets in an otherwise price conscious African and other developing markets offers many challenges as well as opportunities for the local industry.
However, it is also necessary to highlight the problems so as to tackle them more efficiently. As stated above the major hurdle to solidify Pakistani presence in these markets, and more importantly to keep maintaining the fruits of the breakthrough already made, is the absence of export-orientation on the part of the industry. Mr. Shamsi attributed it on lengthy and exhaustive paperwork as well as on the initial investment needed for a relevant presence and exposure in these countries.
Nigeria, the top market of Pakistan pharma products, serves as an ideal case to highlight the problems with other markets in Africa as well as many other markets in the developing world. According to Mr. Shamsi, Nigeria and for that matter other markets in the Africa region, is highly unregulated. "Around 80 per cent of pharma imports into the country comprise products which are finding their way into the country through illegal or extra-legal means including connivance with the customs authorities. The market is so unregulated that even drugs not registered in the country are easily finding their way into Nigeria. However, the government has announced to regulate the pharma trade much more strictly including registration of drugs by the Nigerian Ministry of Health. The measure aimed at better regulating the pharma trade in Nigeria, however, means a number of challenges for the Pakistani exports.
"The drug registration fee in Nigeria is one of the most expensive in the region to further discourage an already export-shy national-companies'-lead pharma industry of Pakistan by pushing the initial investment costs and already lengthy and exhaustive registration costs in a country not known for good business practices."
NIGERIAN MARKET: A CASE STUDY
Just how discouragingly high the registration fee is in Nigeria? Mr. Batla told PAGE that it is $ 2,200 per product for prescribed drugs and $ 10,000 per product for Over-The-Counter (OTC) drugs. "A separately registration is required for each variation of a drug be it a tablet, capsule, syrup and injection as well as all variable dosages of a same tablet be it 50 mg, 100 mg or any other variation thereof."
Mr. Shamsi informed PAGE that drug registration fee in Pakistan and other African countries are much less. "Just how high the registration fee in Nigeria is evident from the fact that registration fee in Pakistan is Rs 15,000 or just $ 260 at current exchange rates. Registration fee in almost all other African countries, all of whom have various degrees of Pakistani presence, are also much less compared to Nigeria — $ 500 in Ethiopia, $ 1,000 in Kenya, $ 500 in Ghana, $ 300 in Uganda, $ 250 in Sudan."
Despite the immense potential that Nigeria offers to Pakistani pharmaceutical industry as the major distribution point into West Africa, there are many problems that are shying away local traders. The biggest problem is the lack of trust on the part of Pakistani exporters and traders due primarily to the absence of good business practices necessary to conduct mutually beneficial business. "There are cases where Pakistani exporters lost monies when bank drafts turned out be fakes," said Mr. Batla.
Another major problem is that Nigeria still much remains an extremely unregulated market. According to Mr. Shamsi 80 per cent of the Nigerian pharma market is flooded with drugs finding their way into the country illegally. "This includes drugs not registered into the country by the unscrupulous elements having connection in the right circles. The rampant unethical business practices surrounding all areas of pharma market in Nigeria is discouraging many potential exporters to take risks."
CATEGORY OF EXPORTERS
That explains why commercial exporters are playing the leading role to help develop market for Pakistani products in Nigeria, and for that many other similar markets such as Somalia, Rwanda, Burundi and Myanamar. According to estimates the share of commercial exporters is around 60 per cent, pharma companies about 25 per cent while the remaining comprises non-pharma products such as cotton, gauze etc.
Mr. Shamsi said that Nigeria importers prefer to buy pharma products from commercial exporters in Pakistan instead of buying the products directly from the company. "The companies have to follow all the rules and laws thus making it hard for them to export pharmaceuticals to Nigeria while dealing with commercial exporters leave a whole lot of room for play which has become almost a rule in the unregulated market."
The commercial exporters, thus, are playing a pivotal role to develop markets and continue maintaining presence in Africa and elsewhere. While the national companies are the major beneficiary of pharma exports, the multinationals are also benefiting from it in part. The commercial exporters buy the products from the market directly and in many cases also act as an agent for many companies who don't want to get directly involved with exports for one of many reasons mentioned above. The commercial exporters with offices with local staffs who understand the ground realities in their particular company buy products directly from the market or acting as an agent have to stock up these markets with particular products as and when required. Thus while the national companies are the main beneficiary the MNCs are also benefiting from exports without getting involved directly with it. In any case the real beneficiary is the Pakistani pharma industry.
Though, commercial exporters understanding the preference of products of MNCS in the African market, are more inclined to ship the branded products the overall ratio of MNCs and national companies in pharma exports is 50 per cent each. Mr. Batla claimed that 80 per cent of all pharma exports by the commercial exporters comprise MNCs' products and only 20 per cent of it is made up of products of the national companies.
PRICES: THE DECIDING FACTOR
OK so we have been able to make inroads into major and minor markets across the globe. We also enjoy an edge over such established and comparatively cheaper competitors as India and China as far as quality is concerned. However, both of these two competitors enjoy an edge over pharma products in term of price. Indian products are cheaper and Chinese, even cheaper. The question is: would we be able to make deeper penetration of pharma markets in various stages of development?
Mr. Batla feels that there would be no major changes in the next few years. "We will just not be able to do anything to make our pharma products more price competitive in these markets for the simple reason that Pakistani pharmaceutical industry, both MNCs or national, are heavily dependent on imported basic raw materials. Unlike India and China the basic raw materials required for the manufacture of drugs are not produced locally thus pushing our production costs resulting in comparatively high drug prices."
In addition, the costs of such major inputs as utilities and petroleum have been on a constant rise to push the production costs even further. Pakistani pharma products in the overseas markets are more expensive not only than Indian and Chinese counterparts but also Egyptian products.
But price is just one many factors. Thus far the bulk of Pakistani pharma exports to Nigeria and elsewhere comprise unregistered drugs which have been finding their way into these countries for reasons obvious to all of us. However, promises of stricter implementation of the laws by the Nigerian government may pose problems in the near future. Stricter implementation of laws would mean that a sizeable quality of exports, a substantial portion of which comprise unregistered drugs, would just not be able to find its way into these markets.
On the other hand, both Mr. Batla and Mr. Shamsi agreed that the costly drug registration fee for every single variation and form of the same product would shy away many Pakistani exports, both commercial and company, from the Nigerian market. "The high registration fee in such an extremely unregulated market in the absence of good business practices is feared to affectively closed the doors of the Nigerain market for many pharma exporters."
The Pakistani pharmaceutical industry, many national companies in particular, already facing stiff competition from low-priced Indian, Chinese and Egyptian products may not be able to afford the high registration fee. This would be particularly true for national companies encouraged by the rising share of generic products in the world market which has risen from 22 per cent in 1985 to 45 per cent or $ 143 billion in the year 2000. The rising share of the generic products in the global pharmaceutical market can be attributed mainly to the price factor as they retail for as low as one-third of the price of the branded products. That also explains the cool reception of Pakistani pharma products in the price-driven markets of Africa.
PRICE NOT THE ONLY FACTOR
Though price remains the detrimental factor, it is not the onlt factor. Mr. Batla said that the Indian competitors are ready to go to any length to win an export order even if it means circumventing or altogether disregarding the international drugs laws. "India products are certainly cost efficient but they the Indian pharmaceutical industry feels no qualms to disregard international laws to win foreign orders. For instance, Indian exporters are ready to manufacture tailormade order for a 125 mg tablet instead of world accepted variations of 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg. In contrast, pharmaceutical manufacturers in Pakistan follow strict international standards where a 125 mg tablet just cannot be manufactured no matter how big the export order is."
Fiscal incentives the worldover play an important role to encourage exports. However, no such incentive was offered to Pakistani pharma exporters till January 1 this year. It came in the form of duty drawback announced by the Revenue Division of the Central Board of Revenue (CBR), the premier tax collecting agency of the country. A 4.15 per cent duty drawback is now offered on the exports of tablets and capsules, 2.5 per cent on liquid and syrups, 2.62 per cent on cream ointments, 3.31 per cent on injections and injectibles and 2.04 per cent on intravenous IV solutions.
However, the main hindrance to pharma exports can be attributed to pervasive lack of commitment to explore and enter export markets. Despite the wide availability of the technology, abundance of skilled manpower, strict adherence to WHO's Good Manufacturing Practices, quality imported basic ingredients and packing materials this lack of commitment to exports is keeping a large number of the receptive markets closed for the majority of pharma manufacturers in Pakistan. These challenges, however, are real opportunities that the local pharmaceutical industry, particularly the national companies should wake up to.
Pharma exports offer unique opportunities and immense potential to find, develop and nurture markets to make it the top non-traditional exports. The challenges are really opportunities in disguise particularly as a meaning-some beginning has already been made in over 90 markets worldwide — some big, some not so big and most very small but all offering immense potential yet remain to be fully tapped. The comparative easy access to markets in Asia and Africa and the growing population and demand in these regions worth the risks, exhaustive process and most of all initial investment to help establish and maintain presence. Most required is to make the industry fully export-oriented.
TOP 10 MARKETS OF PAKISTANI PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS IN 2001-2002
(VALUE US $ MILLION)
2. Sri Lanka
8. Russian Federation
GLOBAL PHAR MARKET: SHARE OF GLOBAL SALS
GLOBAL PHARMA MARKET
PAKISTAN'S EXPORTS OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS
+ 19.8 %
+ 28.9 %
- 6.9 %


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Tensions around of import-export relations of Russia and Turkey continues. After Turkey suspended the acquisition of six food products from Russia worth about $ 1.3 billion, the first reaction came from the Kremlin.
The tension in relations between Russia and Turkey with the destruction of the Russian plane, finds a solution in diplomacy, but remains in the economy. In this process, which began last year, the flow of Russian tourists to Turkey have stopped, some Russian companies operating in Turkey, stopped their investment or moved them to other countries, was again introduced visas. In the last few months have seen an easing.
The resumption of political dialogue between Moscow and Ankara was a signal that an embargo on the export and import of food products will be removed. During the visit many of the Turkish delegation led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Moscow this expectation has come to the forefront. Russia lifted sanctions against some food products. Among the goods on which the ban was lifted, — onions, shallots, cauliflower, broccoli, salt, carnation flowers and chewing gum. The total value of these products was less than $ 20 million. The attention of the Turkish farmers was focused on fresh vegetables and fruits, which we sell to hundreds of millions of dollars. But the expectation did not materialize, and this move of Moscow Turkey responded by suspending imports of six food products worth about $ 1.3 billion: corn, wheat, crude sunflower oil, sunflower meal, peas and rice. Moscow reacted to this decision of Ankara. And the first reaction came from the Kremlin.
The Russian delegation will not come
Of all the reactions that followed from Russia after the news, which first reported the newspaper Dünya, the greatest attention is drawn to the statement of the Rosselkhoznadzor… He announced the desire to create an agricultural company in Turkey in order to grow their own food and “ensure food security”, and announced that the lifting of the ban on the import of tomatoes, cucumbers, apples and pears from Turkey are planned. In a statement the Ministry of agriculture of Russia was said to discuss a full or partial lifting of restrictions on Turkish products, Turkish side needs to terminate the prohibitions imposed with respect to the products purchased from Russia. Moreover, in April Turkey was to visit the delegation, which can make the decision on the abolition of certain restrictions, but this visit was cancelled.
Back 16 tons of quince
One of the most important fronts of food tensions, the ongoing mainly between tomato and wheat, and fruits. Russia uses the limitations not only in relation to tomatoes, but these come from Turkey products, such as quince. So, the other day at the checkpoint “New yurkovichi” Rosselkhoznadzor was not allowed the transportation of fresh quince, arrived from Turkey. Service that as a reason pointed to the fact that ive brought from Turkey does not comply with sanitary standards and contains no harmful organisms, took 16 tons of product and returned the quince Turkey.
Tomatoes — the most important front
Okay, but what turns food price tensions between the two countries?
It’s good to say. The most important articles in this tension — tomatoes and wheat…
Turkey’s share in world exports of tomatoes to 4.5%. Tomatoes account for 62% of total vegetable export of Turkey. The embargo that Russia applies in relation to Turkish agricultural products since the beginning of 2016, is most influenced by producers of tomatoes. In 2015, we sold Russia’s tomatoes in the amount of 259 million dollars. In 2016 — just for 87 thousand dollars. Stopped the sales of another important product — the seedless grapes. Sales of $ 70 million in 2015, fell to zero in 2016. In the export pomegranate loss 77%. The export value of $ 35 million in 2015, fell to 8.2 million. If you look at the overall picture, our exports of fresh vegetables and fruit to Russia, which amounted to 875 million dollars, has decreased by 62% and fell to 331 million dollars. If we imagine that our total fruit and vegetable exports — $ 1.9 billion, Russia’s share more than half.
We are among the most important customers
Now about the products that we buy from Russia In 2016 Turkey bought sunflower oil in the amount of 963 million dollars. The share of Russia, which is in the first place, which is 720 million dollars. The figures for corn — $ 128 million. The share of Russia, which again is the first line, — $ 76 million. Our total imports of wheat — 892 million dollars. From Russia, which is again in first place with a share of 55%, the cost of purchases $ 490 million.
The probability of the lifting of restrictions no
The press-Secretary of Rosselkhoznadzor Julia Melano noted that the Rosselkhoznadzor has no plans to eliminate existing restrictions against the Turkish products, and said the following: “Rosselkhoznadzor considers the possibility of lifting the restrictions imposed on the supply Turkish products.”
Minister çelik: not retaliation, and the requirement importers
The Minister of food, agriculture and livestock Faruk çelik (Faruk Çelik) is considered incorrect wording such as “We also limited the import of Russian products, especially of wheat.” He said, “This is only a requirement of the importers. Importers act on the basis of what and where they intend to buy. In agriculture, the two countries should make reciprocal steps that will satisfy farmers. We have such statistics. In Russia we sell tomatoes for $ 250 million, but these tomatoes enter Russian market through third countries. Know about it and the Russian authorities. We say, why do I need to do it indirectly when you can sell directly? At one point our sales of product “A” in some of the country increased 10 times, 100 times, a thousand times. What does it mean? Providing Russian needs in that market. I am convinced that we should not resort to all this and will be correct if in all areas, we will act in the framework of the obligations which fall on us as two friendly neighbouring countries”.
Charge d’affaires of Russia was summoned to the Ministry
The official representative the Ministry of foreign Affairs Muftuoglu (Müftüoğlu) stated that after the death of the Turkish military as a result of the fire opened from the territory under the control of the Party “Democratic Union” (PYD) / Kurdistan workers ‘ party (PKK), charge d’affaires of Russia in Ankara was summoned to the Ministry. “He was told what to do all the necessary to avoid such accidents in the future, if this happens, the terrorist organization will be given an adequate response,” said Muftuoglu. To answer the question of Turkey’s demands to close the PYD office in Russia Muftuoglu noted that Turkey on each level is divided with Russia his views on various terrorist organizations affiliated with the PYD, the PKK terrorist organization, and their offshoots. “It is a known fact. We expect Russia to take steps towards closing this office,” — said the spokesman.

domain: news


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London, July 30: A British designer has come up with a sports car that can be folded in half to park it in tight spaces.
Daniel Bailey, 22, has revealed that the BRB Evolution jacks up on its nose with its back wheels sliding underneath on two rollers, and thus uses 50 per cent less parking space. He says that motorists will have to step out of the car before it morphs into its "upright" parking pose. He adds that the car will run on electricity or hydrogen fuel, and will be more "sexy, sleek and mean" than other eco-cars.
According to him, his invention is inspired by the Lamborghini Murcielago and Peugeot 908.
"I figured two of the main problems of future cities would be pollution and over population," the Telegraph quoted him as saying.
"With more vehicles needing more places to be stored, I came up with the concept of a folding car.
"The car folds up to 50 per cent of its original size, and uses the negative vertical space, usually disregarded. This potentially doubles the amount of parking spaces," he added.
Bailey has revealed that he has submitted his concept to Peugeot as part of a design competition.


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During Windows Build this year, one of the more interesting announcements made was around a product called Windows Ink. With the latest Windows 10 Insider Builds and Windows 10 Mobile Builds, Windows Ink has become available for those to try.
Windows Ink is a Microsoft based program that gives users with pens, ways to taking screenshots, writing on those screenshots, marking up maps and photos, or just simply drawing. It also makes Windows 10 doodlers for those who dabble in that trade.
What Is Windows Ink?
Windows Ink is an internal project at Microsoft, and is harnesses the power of the pen on Windows 10. Users can create sticky notes, doodle on the sketchpad, sketch all over their screens, and open apps compatible with Windows Ink.
Users will be able to then use these drawings and sticky notes, to integrate them with Cortana. With the initial releases of Windows Ink on Windows 10, Windows Ink doesn’t fully work with Cortana, but Microsoft has stated this will come soon for users.
Windows Ink Brings Creation Tools To Users
While Windows Ink surprised users at Microsoft Build, many didn’t expect Microsoft to release it so soon. Now, for those with Surface Pro 3, Pro 4, and Surface Book devices, it means drawing tools are available in an amazing tool.
The Surface Pro line of laptops and tablets are perfect for Windows Ink, and Windows Ink lets creators use the pen surface in great new professional ways. It’s still got a ways to go, but its free, and built in the latest Windows 10 Insider releases.
If you’re on the fast ring of the Windows 10 Insider program, try Windows Ink. It’s a pretty cool tool, and great for those with pens.


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Stadia, the Cloud Gaming service by Google has just blown its first candle in November 2020. Unfortunately, we can not really say that the service is up to the revolution announced by Google. A few days ago, Phil Harrison, the boss of Google Stadia, confirmed the closure of “Stadia Games & Entertainment” as well as the departure of its manager of the development studios: Jade Raymond.
Harrison also announced that Stadia could opt for a “significant opportunity to work with partners in the search for a gaming solution based on the technical infrastructure and advanced platform tools of Stadia.” Despite everything, this opportunity should not prevent the platform from offering new experiences to its subscribers. Thus, in 2021, more than 100 new games “should” arrive on Stadia.
Play on Stadia, but without exclusivity!
Obviously, Google no longer wants to develop games and offer exclusives to players, but the American giant still wants to attract third-party publishers. Thus, we learn via a new article on the official Stadia blog that more than a hundred games are planned for this year 2021. The list of the first nine games has even been revealed.
- Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Ultimate Edition – February 23
- Shantae: Risky’s Revenge – Director’s Cut – February 23
- Kaze and the Wild Masks – March 26
- It Came From Space And Ate Our Brains – March 2
- FIFA 21 – March 17
- Judgment – April 23
- Killer Queen Black – TBD
- Street Power Footballl – TBD
- Hellpoint – to be determined
FIFA 21 and Judgment games stand out a bit on this list of mostly indie games. It seems hard to believe that Stadia will be able to compete with Microsoft’s XCloud or Amazon’s Luna by offering no exclusives and with a majority of independent third-party games.
Last year, Google promised over 120 new games for the Stadia catalog. A promise that will not be kept. Still in 2020, Google criticized third-party publishers for not making an effort to offer new games on its platform. Obviously, the year 2021 seems to be a logical continuation. We still hope that some nice surprises will be announced in the coming weeks!


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Got diet milk? The dairy industry for the past three years has been hoping to sell you some under the guise of just plain "milk," so that chocolate and strawberry varieties that contain artificial sweeteners would no longer need to carry a special label.
Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acknowledged a 2009 petition from the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and the National Milk Producers Federation that seeks to drop the FDA requirement to label milk and other dairy products as "artificially sweetened" when they contain sweeteners such as aspartame.
The FDA asked the public to submit data, information and comments related to aspartame and other artificial sweeteners in milk last week.
The agency currently lets the dairy industry use the unmodified "milk" label for unsweetened milk or milk that contains sweeteners with calories, like sugar and high-fructose corn syrup.
Aspartame is used in a range of products, including diet soda and yogurt, and is sold to consumers under the brand-name Equal (which also includes some other ingredients). Some researchers have found that artificial sweeteners alter people's brain chemistry, making them crave higher-calorie foods, which in turn makes them more prone to obesity and diabetes.
The dairy lobby argues the opposite, claiming that allowing aspartame in milk would make it a healthier product and reduce childhood obesity by offering milk with fewer calories.
The move comes as milk's popularity is in serious decline and other beverages, including soy and rice milk, take on more market share.
If history is any indication, the dairy lobby may get its way; it's a powerful force on Capitol Hill, according to Mother Jones.
CORRECTION: This post initially reported that the dairy industry was asking the FDA for permission to include artificial sweeteners in milk. The article has been updated to reflect that aspartame and other artificial sweeteners already are allowed in milk. The FDA simply requires the front of the label to note that the milk is artificially sweetened.


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Entries in 'ea' (498)
Thanks to yesterday’s release of the Battlefield 4 beta, we’ve now got a better idea than ever about how the next-gen and current-gen versions of Battlefield 4 compare.
Graphics card manufacturer AMD spent between $5m and $8m to secure its Battlefield 4 partnership, a new report has claimed.
Grand Theft Auto V has been knocked off the top of the UKIE GfK Chart-Track All Formats Top 40 in only its second week.
EA has reportedly decided to shut down its mobile-focused studio in North Carolina.
EA has canceled its annual collegiate American football title through at least next year.
One of the biggest releases of the year arrived at midnight last night, but retail is again playing it safe with its pricing for FIFA 14.
The attacking potency of forward players in FIFA 14 is likely to be toned down in a future update to the game.
While Britons patiently wait until tonight's midnight launches for EA Sports' hotly anticipated blockbuster, some Europeans have already got their hands on it.
Legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto has been accused of dropping the ball by EA’s chief creative officer Richard Hilleman.
Apple has swiftly denied a statement from Electronic Arts’ executive Frank Gibeau that the iOS device-maker paid EA to delay the Android release of Plants vs Zombies 2.
‘Hundreds’ of GAME stores will be opening on Thursday night for the midnight release of EA’s FIFA 14.
The console and mobile games markets are very different beasts. But that isn’t stopping the industry’s biggest publishers bringing their blockbusters to the small screen.
Supermarket behemoth Tesco has detailed its promotional plans for the launch of FIFA 14.
Gamers on the continent intending to upgrade key games from current to next-gen have been given another option by retailer GameStop.
Updated kits and squad rosters are the only addition to the 3DS version of FIFA 14.
From Battlefield to Titanfall, EA has a huge line-up of triple-A next-gen blockbusters.
Another option has been offered for those hoping to upgrade to the next-gen versions of EA’s upcoming games.
EA's Patrick Soderlund talks Call of Duty, not messing up Star Wars and love for PlayStation in the latest edition of MCV.
EA Games boss Patrick Soderlund has reignited the war of words over Battlefield versus Call of Duty.
The next piece of DLC for EA’s SimCity will allow gamers to improve the real-world as well as their fictional hangouts.
After six months, the search is over, EA's board of directors has picked the firm's new CEO.
Battlefield 4, FIFA 14 and Madden NFL 25 will be available in their next-gen guises ahead of their respective hardware launches in the US.
Some copies of Battlefield 4 on the PS3 will include a code inside that entitles the owner to a digital PS4 copy of the game for just £10.
There’s something quite refreshing about the executives at Sony.


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Reuters Odd News Summary
Following is a summary of current odd news briefs.
Prague opera lovers watch 'Don Giovanni' on rooftop - and in bath tubs
Mozart's "Don Giovanni" has been a favorite among opera lovers since it premiered in Prague in 1787 but it is unlikely that any have ever watched it on a rooftop in the Czech capital while submerged in a bath tub, a glass of bubbly in hand - till now. That's how Prague cafe owner and culture promoter Ondrej Kobza arranged his performance, delivered by top Czech opera singers, including soloist Adam Plachetka from the Vienna Opera, as the sun set over the historic city center on Thursday night.
Amazon Echo link could be turning UK parents off the name Alexa
The number of parents in Britain calling their baby girls Alexa dropped by more than half last year, statistics showed on Thursday, possibly due to the link with Amazon Echo voice-controlled gadgets. The Echo, a smart speaker that can perform household tasks such as adjusting lights, responds to the name Alexa.
Statue resembling Trump erected in Melania's home country Slovenia
A large wooden sculpture that strongly resembles Donald Trump was erected this week in Slovenia, home country of Trump's wife Melania, though its designer insists it is meant to represent a "statue of liberty," not the U.S. president. Tom Schlegl's 8-meter (26 foot) statue in the village of Sela, north of the capital Ljubljana, depicts a man with blond hair and an angry expression, wearing a blue suit, white shirt and red tie. His right arm is raised with a clenched fist.
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Today, we are getting our first look at the horizontal Grovemade iPhone 12 MagSafe Dock. The brand has been on a roll over the last few months, slowly unleashing its 2020 lineup of desktop and Apple gear accessories, with premium hardwood construction, wool finishes, and best of all, launch day pricing. Head below for a closer look at the new iPhone 12 MagSafe Dock.
The 2020 lineup of Grovemade desktop and Apple gear accessories — all of which featuring matching wooden, steel, and wool designs — include the new iPad and MacBook stands as well as the vertical iPhone 12 Wood MagSafe Dock (now known as the wood MagSafe Stand) we featured at the top of the month. The horizontal iPhone 12 MagSafe Dock being introduced today continues these trends with a lay-flat and expected premium design.
Grovemade iPhone 12 MagSafe Dock
Available in two natural wood colorways, the new Grovemade iPhone 12 MagSafe Dock is designed to “create a low-profile and fluid charging experience” based on Apple’s reintroduced magnetic technology. It features a solid steel base (machined stainless steel and Cerakote ceramic coated mild steel) that acts as a “steady anchor” alongside your choice of Eastern Hard Rock Maple or American Black Walnut wood builds. Grovemade has once again employed natural cork feet for added stability on the tabletop as well.
Apple MagSafe Charger required
Compatible with all iPhone 12 models, the horizontal MagSafe Dock is just that, and it requires you to own one of Apple’s MagSafe Chargers (it’s not included with the dock). No third-party options are supported here. The dock uses “microsuction to hold MagSafe charger in place,” which Grovemade describes as being “secure but removable.”
As we mentioned above, if you jump in, now you won’t have to pay full price either. The new Grovemade iPhone 12 MagSafe Dock carries a $100 MSRP but can now be yours for $80 shipped. It is currently listed as shipping in “4- to 6-weeks.”
Once again, Grovemade is offering iPhone 12 owners a dock worthy of Apple’s gorgeous design. But much of the same criticisms remain from the vertical stand option we featured earlier this month. While the static viewing angle isn’t as much of a glaring issue with the lay-flat design here, making use of Grovemade’s new docks and stands require folks to purchase the $39 Apple MagSafe Charger, putting the price of admission up at closer to $140. Having said that, Grovemade’s attention to detail, quality materials, and dedication to both make its Apple solutions worth at least a quick look from anyone that appreciates these kinds of things, especially considering they are the kind of folks that will likely splurge for Apple’s first-party charger anyway. While I, for one, would have preferred anything other than being able to see Apple’s white charging puck when the phone isn’t in place, it is among the prettiest options out there otherwise.
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Earthlink Apparel is just one corner of a larger organisation, Earthlink Incorporated which focuses on social, environmental and economic sustainability, and supporting coping with mental health or addiction issues find sustainable employment. Other initiatives include NZQA accredited training programmes, recycling and horticulture services and a curtain bank.
The apparel arm was launched as an operational business in 2014 to divert end-of-life corporate apparel and recover textiles resources previously being wasted.
Talks about diving into the clothing world started in 2012 as part of Hutt City Council’s ‘Silver Lining’ initiative. An initial pilot project, largely focused on the recovery of end-of-life New Zealand Post and Kiwibank uniforms, resulted in a total of 40,200 garments being recovered – saving some 40 tonnes of textiles from being disposed of offshore or in landfills.
Earthlink Incorporated chief executive Shirley Cressy says every part of donated garments is used in some way.
“We guarantee we’ll recycle, upcycle or repurpose everything we get in and the garments we haven’t been able to use we either put into rags or send to other non-profits around New Zealand.”
The only limitation in the clothing is that no logos can be used, so they are cut out and shredded. The shredded fabric can be used for stuffing pillows and toys or used in upholstery.
New Zealand disposes of 100,000 tonnes of textiles annually, making textiles the fastest growing waste stream worldwide. According the Ministry for the Environment figures, textiles account for 4 percent of all waste sent to New Zealand landfills.
Earthlink Apparel’s aim is to recover, repurpose or recycle a total of 80 tonnes of corporate apparel by April next year.
The non-profit currently makes clothing for children up to the age of 10. Most are made from merino uniforms, suits and business skirts. The clothing doesn’t just help reduce consumers’ carbon footprint – it’s also easy on the wallet. All the clothing is sold at affordable prices, between $5 and $45.
Depending on the size of clothes being made, a single suit jacket could be used to make up to three items of clothing. The trousers could be made into five pairs of shorts.
“We do all sorts of things like turn sleeves into trousers and incorporate design elements on the clothing, like buttons and pockets, into the new garment.”
Since the non-profit began its work, a number of qualified designers have given advice on how best to utilise different parts of the clothing.
In 2015 the charity partnered up with researchers and designers at Massey University’s Space Between – a sustainable fashion initiative – to come up with the ‘Fundamentals’ womanswear range. Designed by Massey fashion lecturer Jennifer Whitty and manufactured at Earthlink Apparel, pieces from Fundamentals’ collection were displayed at New Zealand Fashion Week earlier this year.
And people are embracing the up-cycled fashion movement. A PledgeMe campaign run by Space Between in August to keep the project sustainable surpassed its $10,000 goal by more than $1000.
Earthlink Apparel is currently available in their Lower Hutt store, as well as at selected markets and retailers around Wellington. In the next few months they are hoping to move into the online shopping world as well.


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New research into home Internet use published this week shows that British women are catching up with their male counterparts.
MMXI, an Internet audience monitoring firm, has seen steady growth in the number of UK women going online over the last nine months, and believes that we might see an equal ratio of the sexes in this country within twelve months. In the US, more women than men now surf the Web.
Last October of the 7.8 million home Internet users in the UK, women made up 39 percent. Figures for June show that the number of home Internet users has risen to 10.6 million with women now accounting for 42.5 percent.
Lucy Green, marketing director at MMXI, believes this trend will continue. "We're seeing a rapid increase in the numbers of women logging on to the Net across Europe, as ease of access improves," she said. "If this growth continues, it's possible that there could be as many UK women as men surfing from home within a year."
Green explains that usage patterns show that women use the Net for practical tasks. "We're seeing women primarily use the Internet for shopping and to find information. E-banking, e-commerce and travel sites are all very popular," she said.
Women represent the largest proportion of visitors to tescodirect.com, tescodirect.co.uk, egreetings.com and handbag.com. "Another growing trend is the popularity of health sites, where a mother can type in her ill child's symptoms and receive advice," she added.
Green believes it is possible that if women continue to use the Internet for practical tasks they could become a more important audience than men for web retailers. "We could reach a situation where most UK women are using the Internet to shop, check bank accounts and book holidays, while men primarily log on to find Web content and to download games," she says.
Take me to the e-commerce special.


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Tesla is trying to ramp up production of the Tesla Model 3 to 5,000 units per week by the end of June, and it’s starting to see some progress toward that goal. This week, the automaker pushed out 500 Model 3s in a 24-hour period, according to an email from CEO Elon Musk.
In an email sent companywide Thursday morning, Musk congratulated staff and said it was the first time “we’ve been able to run at a rate of 500/day or an extrapolated 3500 customer deliverable cars per week.
“Congratulations on a big milestone!” Musk said.
Tesla still has its work cut out to hit the 5,000 per week target by the end of next month, and the automaker has seen ebbs and flows in production of the sedan since it launched the car last summer.
The electric carmaker has had a bumpy ride as of late, with Musk now regularly slamming news outlets for what he perceives as biased reporting against the company, despite years of Tesla receiving adoring coverage from the press.
In a previous email obtained by Jalopnik, Musk said Tesla’s looking to hire more workers at its assembly plant in Fremont, California, as part of an effort to hit an estimated 6,000 units by the end of June. Musk said the target is 6,000 units—not 5,000—because “we cannot have a number with no margin for error across thousands of internally and externally produced parts and processes, amplified by a complex global logistics chain.”
“Actual production will move as fast as the least lucky and least well-executed part of the entire Tesla production/supply chain system,” Musk said then.
The automaker recently introduced a performance model of the Model 3, priced at $78,000. The base model, starting at $35,000, and the major selling point of the Model 3 when it was first introduced, has yet to be made, but Tesla believes it’ll start production on it by the end of 2018.
A Tesla spokesperson had no comment when reached by Jalopnik.


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Introducing the Ms Galaxy UK division!
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that for the 2016 UK Galaxy Pageants, we will be introducing the Ms Galaxy UK division!
Due to all other divisions being such a success in the UK, we have decided to launch the Ms division in the UK starting from 2016!
This means that in 2016 we will be sending NINE girls to America!!
Ms contestants must be 30+ and must be unmarried. We were joined by the lovely Sydney Lipsey, Ms Galaxy, at the 2015 final of the Galaxy Pageants and we were so excited to announce the new division alongside Sydney and Maria Torres, Director of the international Galaxy Pageants, at our UK final!
We are so excited for this development in the UK Galaxy Pageant system, and can’t wait to meet our 2016 contestants already!


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The draft prepared to include cryptocurrencies within the scope of the law in Turkey will be presented to the Parliament before the end of the year.
According to Yeni Şafak’s report, the offer is expected to be submitted by the end of the year. ensuring financial stability and cryptocurrency better protection of investors is targeted.
Legal regulation, cryptocurrency industry for money laundering and terrorism financing purposes misuse of will also prevent it.
Social media influencers are also considered to be included in the offer. In recent operations, influencers were used to launder money. uses cryptocurrency had emerged.
The proposal that would bring cryptocurrencies within the scope of financial regulation would with the existing legal framework will make it compatible.
Thanks to this regulation, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to keep it on the gray list There will be no reason. To get off the list, industry experts advise emphasis may be placed on licensing he said.
It was reported that the AK Party’s 80-article omnibus bill, which includes increasing the penalties for hoarders, will be presented to the Presidency of the Parliament this week.


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Amazon is preparing to launch a new, big-screen version of its Kindle e-book reader - just three months after it for releasing the second generation of the gadget.
The new Kindle, which is due to be introduced at a press conference in New York on Wednesday, is set to supplement the existing model by providing a larger screen that can more easily display newspaper and magazine pages... potentially giving the struggling print industry a chance to find some light at the end of the tunnel.
Rumours of a larger model have been doing the rounds for about a year, but the New York Times reports that not only is it imminent, but that a number of print operations are hooking up with Amazon for the announcement, including (surprise) the New York Times:
Unlike tiny mobile phones and devices like the Kindle that are made to display text from books, these new gadgets, with screens roughly the size of a standard sheet of paper, could present much of the editorial and advertising content of traditional periodicals in generally the same format as they appear in print. And they might be a way to get readers to pay for those periodicals — something they have been reluctant to do on the Web.
The existing Kindle already offers users the chance to buy some newspaper subscriptions, so that their paper is delivered to their e-book each morning. But it's no secret that newspaper organisations have been looking for a device that they feel can do the printed form justice and help them shift to a more hi-tech delivery system (I know plenty of titles have had exploratory meetings with hardware manufacturers over the years).
For all the talk of newsprint, however, Larry Dignan at ZDNet says the move is really about textbooks: allowing students, a natural constituency given their propensity to lug huge piles of books around, to use larger format titles without losing anything. That's certainly a big potential market, even if the Kindle 2 has been selling well.
The new device is expected to have a screen that's approximately the size of an A4 piece of paper, as opposed to the current paperback-sized 6-inch display. But reaction so far has been muted - Peter Kafka at MediaMemo says "It doesn't matter how you deliver the information if you can't afford to generate it in the first place", while MG Siegler at Techcrunch says it's a Hail Mary pass.
I can't help but agree; it's a strange little manoeuvre from Amazon. No surprise that the egotistical news industry thinks it's all about them - but whether or not this is a play for the educational market, perhaps the opportunity to bring newspapers and magazines under their wing was too good to pass up.


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MMSports realised to CapMan Buyout XI
CapMan Buyout’s fund CapMan Buyout XI has entered into an agreement to invest in the leading sports nutrition and equipment company MMSports. CapMan will acquire a majority equity share in the company, with key members of the MMSports organization investing a significant share. CapMan Buyout will partner with the MMSports team to continue to support its accelerated growth and international expansion. The investment is the third of the CapMan Buyout XI fund, which was established in 2019.
MMSports AB was founded in 2002 and is one of the leading sports nutrition and health supplement companies in Sweden. The company’s product offering consists of sports nutrition, health supplements, gym equipment and accessories. MMSports has a strong portfolio of proprietary brands and products developed in-house, as well as a selection of external brands. The company has its own e-commerce platform, mmsports.se, through which most products are sold. MMSports also operates nine physical stores in Sweden. Currently, specialist growth investor Verdane owns the majority stake in the company with the founder being a significant co-investor.
“During the past three years, the company has been able to execute fast growth and improve profitability. Today, the company has operations primarily in Sweden, but sales also to Norway and Denmark. We are excited to join MMSports on its journey to capture further growth in Sweden and accelerate international expansion. We are especially impressed by the strong winning culture in MMSports, which is and will continue to be a key success factor for any company. The strong focus on their proprietary brands and in-house developed products is also something we expect to build further on.”, says Tobias Karte, partner at CapMan Buyout.
“We are looking forward to the next phase of growth and are excited to start collaborating with the CapMan team. We see great potential in the market and believe that with our high-quality products and strong team we will be able to grow sales, also outside of Sweden. CapMan will continue to bring the support needed for our organization to take the next step,” says Erik Sjöberg, CEO of MMSports.
“We want to extend our warmest thanks to Erik and the MMSports team for a productive collaboration and wish the team all the best, as they continue their growth journey together with the CapMan team”, says Christian Jebsen, partner at Verdane.
The CapMan Buyout team comprises of 10 investment professionals working in Helsinki and Stockholm and the funds managed by CapMan Buyout invest in medium-sized, unlisted companies in the Nordic countries. The investment in MMSports is made from the CapMan Buyout XI fund, which was established in 2019 and is the fund’s third investment. The transaction is expected to close within a few weeks.


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Qinhuangdao Port opened the first low-carbon sea land new channel05/09/2022
Qinhuangdao Port opened the first low-carbon sea land new channel
Original title: Qinhuangdao Port opened the first low-carbon sea and land new channel on September 18th, the first sea rail transport container train issued by Baoding Jingxiong International Smart Hong Kong into Qinhuangdao Hong Kong New Harbor Container Terminal. The deposit boxes of the Baoding in Hong Kong will take the Qinhuangdao Port as the transfer base. On September 22, the "new tulip" round to South Korea is equipped on September 22.
This marks the new level of the Green Efficient Cross-border Haitro-Hong Kong Green Efficient Cross-border Haitrid, which has opened up "Baoding – Qinhuangdao Port – Incheon", China. This is the reporter learned from the Provincial Development Reform Commission. Since this year, under the guidance of the Provincial Development and Reform Commission’s landing port development center, Qinhuangdao Port actively promotes the construction of modern integrated trade ports and accelerates the layout of the inland port. Qinhuangdao Port and Tail International Transportation Co., Ltd. jointly investigates the demand for supply and export of supply and enterprises in Baoding to promote the path of "public transfer" optimization of transportation structure, formulating "Jingxiong International Wisdom Hong Kong + Qinhuangdao Port" to overseas Strong, low-cost green low-carbon seatrooped multi-purpose transport plan reduces corporate transportation costs and improves transportation efficiency.
It is reported that the shipping new channel is full of "container railway + container line" transportation mode, which is less energy consumption in the past, and less emissions. The new channel achieves seamless docking inland ports and coastal ports, but also performs domestic trade, foreign trade, "all the way" and China-European class, China’s Dongmeng class transport business, China can radiate East China, South China, international radiation Europe, America, Japan and South Korea and Central Asia will effectively promote interval cargo circulation and economic and trade exchanges, and help build new development patterns of domestic international dual cycles.
(Reporter Pan Wenjing, Source) (Editor: Zhang Xiaobo, Zhu Dragon Super) Sharing Let more people see recommendation reading.


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New shop opens downtown
HUNTINGTON -- There's a new shop open in downtown Huntington.
Bow Love opened Thursday at 905 4th Ave. in the space formerly occupied by Richard's Hallmark, and it's a fashion-conscious girl's paradise.
Owned by Misty Olin, the boutique sells hair bows and other accessories for infants, girls and women, as well as some infants and girls clothing. Brand names sold there include Mud Pie, Persnickety and others.
Olin started the business by making bows from her home in Teays Valley and selling them in shops throughout the Tri-State, before opening a location at the Huntington Mall. She closed that spot earlier this year to move and expand her business.
In its new downtown location, Bow Love also will provide party services for small and large parties, including everything from photography to catering assistance to helping with crafts, games and party favors.
Olin's mission is to help girls grow to be both confident and kind, she said. Bow Love will offer free story hour events at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of every month, and at 4 p.m. on the third Monday of every month. Reservations are requested by calling 304-437-7155.
For more information, visit Bow Love on Facebook.


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Offers include Target’s most popular Cartwheel deals, half off an annual Shipt same-day delivery membership and special savings with Target REDcard from Sept. 16-22
Next week, Target guests will be able to take advantage of incredible deals – from the very best Cartwheel promotions to big savings on same-day delivery, shopped by Shipt, and special offers for Target REDcard holders. Offers are valid Sept. 16 – 22.
Week-long “Best-Of” Cartwheel Deals
For the first time, Target is making the most popular Cartwheel promotions available for an entire week, including guest favorites like 20 percent off select home, apparel, food, health and beauty items and more. Hundreds of additional in-store deals will also be available. Guests can access the savings through Cartwheel in the Target app starting Sept. 16.
Savings on Same-Day Delivery, shopped by Shipt
Guests who haven’t yet signed up for Shipt same-day delivery service will be eligible for $50 off an annual membership (regularly $99). This is the first time Target has provided all guests in markets that offer Shipt delivery service the opportunity to save half off a membership. Guests can visit Target.com/Shipt and type in their zip code to find out if the service is available in their area. Existing Shipt members will also be rewarded for making a Target run next week – when they spend $100 or more on a same-day delivery order, they’ll receive a $15 credit on their Shipt account for use on a future order.
Bonus Target REDcard Offers
Current REDcard holders will find special bonus coupons via Wallet in the Target app, including a surprise offer available starting Sunday.* Plus, those who apply and are approved for a new REDcard Sept. 16 - 22 will receive a coupon for $30 off a future qualifying purchase of $100 or more.** As always, Target REDcard holders save 5 percent in-store and online every day and get free two-day shipping on hundreds of thousands of items on Target.com.
Planning next week’s Target Run
Guests can check out the Target app starting Sunday, Sept. 16 to access the week’s offers through Cartwheel and to view and redeem REDcard bonus coupons in Wallet. The Target app is one of the easiest ways to shop Target stores, offering the convenience of payment and REDcard, Cartwheel offers, Weekly Ad, coupons and GiftCards, all in one place. Wallet in the Target app combines Cartwheel offers and digital store coupons plus a debit or credit REDcard so guests can save and pay – all with a scan of their phone at checkout.
Minneapolis-based Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) serves guests at more than 1,800 stores and at Target.com. Since 1946, Target has given 5 percent of its profit to communities, which today equals millions of dollars a week. For the latest store count or more information, visit Target.com/Pressroom. For a behind-the-scenes look at Target, visit Target.com/abullseyeview or follow @TargetNews on Twitter.
*Offers are only available in the Target app and require linking REDcard to Wallet in the Target app.
**Some restrictions apply: Visit Target.com/redcard for more information starting Sept. 16.


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Last week, Texas Roadhouse of Lafayette had some renovations completed that would help with peak dining hours.
The renovations included transforming a portion of the indoor waiting area as a new togo space with a separate access door from the main entrance. More outdoor seating has been installed to accommodate increasing customer volume.
When writing about the new togo area, we figured that it was to accommodate delivery service employees. But to our surprise, Texas Roadhouse is staying away from those services citing issues with food temperature during logistics.
“We encourage all of our competitors to do as much delivery as they can so they can deliver lukewarm food to their people,” founder and CEO Kent Taylor snapped to investors this week after being asked why the chain is breaking from the herd. “We will stick to our guns on this.” — restaurantbusinessonline.com
***short story — This small town boy’s first filet steak came out of Texas Roadhouse of Alexandria. It was then that I quit using A1 sauce on my steaks. And while I still enjoy Texas Roadhouse’s filets, there are many other steaks in town that are enjoyed. POUR in River Ranch has a great filet, probably one of the best I’ve had in a while.


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Parents just don’t understand, right? Not according to the new study published in Preventing Chronic Disease, which found the amount of teens using sunscreen in the last decade has dropped by 12 percent.
"Unfortunately, we found a decrease in the overall percentage of teens who reported wearing sunscreen, from 67.7 percent in 2001 to 56.1 percent in 2011," said Corey Basch, lead study author and an associate professor in the Department of Public Health at William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J., in a press release.
What didn’t decrease enough, however, were how often teen girls took a trip to a tanning salon. The percent of teens frequenting them in 2009 was 37 percent, dropping to only 29 percent in 2011.
To teens, these tanning beds seem like a safe alternative to the sun, but The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reported the ultraviolet (UV) radiation from artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, is a known carcinogen. In other words, indoor UV radiation can cause skin cancer, too — sometimes more so than good old-fashioned sun.
What’s the deal? Dr. Jeanine Daly, a dermatologist at North Shore-LIJ Health System in Manhasset, N.Y., chalks it up to suntan color still being “in vogue.” In fact, one AAD survey found 80 percent of people age 25 and younger thought they looked better with a tan. This vogue tan color often comes at a price. Not wearing sunscreen or sun-protective clothing significantly increases risk for skin cancer. According to the AAD, of the more than two million people diagnosed with this type of cancer each year, many can easily be prevented.
However, prevention is harder when it comes to teens because doctors don’t think to look for skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation cited that there aren’t even set guidelines for skin examinations in children. So teens who skip sunscreen for the salon, or really can’t be bothered, may have cancer and won't receive a diagnosis in time.
Despite how hard professionals and nationwide campaigns have worked to encourage the use of sunscreen (Team USA soccer player Landon Donovan and Desperate Housewives actress Eva Longoria come to mind), teens aren't getting it. The worst part is that all anyone can do is yell the message louder with hopes it eventually takes hold. The message of course being it’s cool to care about your skin. If nothing else, it saves your life.
Per AAD guidelines, sunscreen is necessary every day you’re outside and should generously coat exposed skin. It’s equal to the amount that would fill a shot glass. Brand-wise, use broad spectrum brands with an SPF of 15 or higher, 30 for prolonged outdoor activity. For more on sun protection, visiti the Skin Cancer Foundation’s website.
Source: Basch CH, Basch CE, Rajan S, Ruggles K. Use of sunscreen and indoor tanning devices among a nationally representative sample of high school students, 2001-2011. Preventing Chronic Disease. 2014.


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The Battambang provincial agriculture department reports that a significant 60 per cent of Samlot durians, totalling 300 tonnes, have already been reaped from the 417ha dedicated to cultivation in Samlot district this July.
Heng Sithy, an expert from the department, confirmed on July 2 that this year’s harvest broadly mirrors those of previous years.
“This year’s durian harvest was not much different from the previous years, which is typically around more than 5,000 tonnes,” he said.
The prevailing cost of pungent fruit ranges between 13,000 to 15,000 riel ($3.15 to $3.65) per kilogramme. Sithy noted that this price fluctuates based on the variety of durian and where it was procured. Particularly, Samlot district cultivates durians on a total of 546ha, with 417ha being harvested and generating more than 12 tonnes per hectare.
“Generally, the durian harvesting season may end by the end of July. The climate change does not have significant impact on durian. The kind of Monthong durian, which has good taste, is the most expensive one among other kinds,” he said of the top-notch durian variety that has small, hard seeds and known for its mild aroma and delectable taste.
Nay Chorn, president of Samlout Durian Cluster, reiterated that this year’s yield closely mirrors the last, estimating 300 to 400 tonnes harvested annually across approximately 20 plantations owned by cluster members. So far, the cooperative has successfully harvested about half the produce.
Chorn highlighted that Phnom Penh is the main marketplace for their durians, supplemented by sales within Battambang province and direct purchases from tourists visiting plantations in Samlot commune.
In terms of export potential, Chorn revealed that they had liaised with companies in Thailand, China and from within Cambodia that expressed interest in bulk purchases.
But supply constraints sparked concerns.
“The Samlout Durian Cluster has been discussing with members many times about the export of durian to China as they questioned us about how much we can supply per year. They need a detailed data,” he said.
While the taste and quality of Samlot durians have found favour with prospective exporters, there remain apprehensions about fulfilling contractual obligations.
“Most members are worried if we cannot supply them according to the contract. On the other hand, in terms of supply and phytosanitary requirements, the Chinese side needs us to improve, which requires a lot of capital expenditure,” Chorn said.