text:
US-China Chip War: Battle for “New Oil”
For more than a century, the scramble for oil sparkedwars, forced nations to form unusual alliances and sparked more diplomatic disputes. Now, the world’s two largest economies compete for another precious resource – semiconductors, the chips that literally power our daily life. It has become the “new oil” of the 21st century. The United States and China are engaged in a pitched chip war.
These tiny electronic chips of silicon are at the heart of a $500 billion industry expected to double by 2030. Whoever controls the supply chain is the key to becoming an unparalleled superpower. With the development of technology, more and more chips are used in modern equipment. For example, in 2021, there will be about 1,200 chips per car on average, twice as many as in 2010.
America is winning the war
China wants to own the technology to make chips, most of which comes from the US, which is why the US is cutting off Beijing’s access to chip technology to prevent high-end chips from powering China’s tech applications – from military use and artificial intelligence to supercomputers.
The BBC reported that Chris Miller, author of “War on Chips” from American Tufts University, said that the two countries are clearly engaged in an arms race in the Asia-Pacific region. But, he added, there’s more to the race, “it is happening in traditional areas, like the number of ships or missiles produced, but it is also it’s taking place in terms of the quality of Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms that can be employed in military systems”.
The BBC said that the United States is winning in this chip war, but the chip war it has declared on China is reshaping the global economy.
Semiconductors were invented in the US, but East Asia became a manufacturing hub over time. The US dominance of semiconductor technology enabled the country to develop commercial ties and strategic alliances with regions vulnerable to Russian influence during the Cold War. The same holds true now in the face of Beijing’s growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region.
The current race is to be able to mass-produce the best and most efficient microchips, and the smaller the chips, the better. Even for top chipmakers, that goal will not be easy. In mid-2022, Samsung will become the first company to start mass-producing three-nanometer chips. Later that same year, Taiwan’s TSMC followed suit.
These smaller, high-end chips are more powerful, which means they’re going into more valuable devices – supercomputers and artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things. Although non-high-end chips still power some of the devices in people’s lives, such as microwave ovens, washing machines and refrigerators, demand may shrink in the future.
US Chip Restriction Hit China’s Ambition
Most of the world’s chips are made in Taiwan, underscoring the importance of the West protecting Taiwan from Chinese influence. China has also prioritised chip production and is investing aggressively in supercomputers and artificial intelligence. While China is far from becoming a global leader, it has been catching up over the past decade, especially in its chip design capabilities, Miller said.
The Biden administration is trying to stifle China’s access to chipmaking technology. Last October, Washington announced total export controls, making it nearly impossible for global companies to sell chips, chipmaking equipment and software containing US technology to China. What’s more, the United States also prohibits American citizens and permanent residents from supporting certain companies in China to “develop or produce” chips.
The US measures deal a heavy blow to China, which relies on imported hardware and foreign talent to fuel its fledgling chipmaking industry.
The BBC said that the US restrictions are hitting the pain points of China. Following the restrictions, Apple has shelved a deal to buy memory chips from China’s Yangtze Memory Corp (YMTC).The United States is also seeking the support of its allies in the export of chips to China. White House National Security Advisor Sullivan confirmed on 12 December last year that the United States has discussed with partners in countries, including Japan and the Netherlands, how to tighten exports of chips and related equipment to China.
Dutch company ASML has a monopoly on key advanced chip-making tools. The United States has been working hard to prevent ASML from exporting advanced chip-making tools to China. The Wall Street Journal has reported that analysts believe that without ASML’s state-of-the-art machines, Chinese chipmakers cannot make leading-edge chips. It is estimated that it will take at least ten years for the CCP to reach ASML’s technological level.
China doesn’t have a good option to deal with this problem. Withdrawing goods or services or imposing its own export controls would backfire and could do more damage when China’s economy faces a severe slowdown.


text:
November 8, 2000 - Industry News
New York voters rejected a $3.8 transportation bond issue Tuesday, but their New Jersey neighbors overwhelmingly approved a measure that will free up money for roads, bridges and transi
Gunite Corp., a maker of wheel assemblies for heavy trucks, has laid off a third of its workforce at its Elkhard, Ind., plant thanks to a dramatic downturn in business
Independent truckers who continue to strike at the Port of Montreal could lose their jobs once the boycott is over, a spokesman for the trucking companies told the Montreal Gazette Tuesday
The U.S. Supreme Court is going to decide if the government must change the way it sets clean air standards.
In a case brought by American Trucking Associations and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the court yesterday heard arguments about a pair of decisions that could affect not only engine emission requirements but the entire federal regulatory mechanism
As close and uncertain as the election results are, it looks likely that we'll have Republican control of the White House and both houses of Congress for the first time in 48 years.
We will have to
November 7, 2000 - Industry News
As the heated debate continues on whether Britain should compensate those hit by the high cost of fuel, oil giant BP Amoco takes their record earnings public
Qualcomm, best known in trucking for its satellite-based communications system, may soon be known for something much more far-reaching
Prophesy now offers a comprehensive interface to most fuel card systems in its Dispatch & Accounting software
Prophesy is making it easier for smaller trucking companies to integrate Prophesy Dispatch with the popular QuickBooks accounting software
Phoenix-based Swift Transportation is planning to spend $3.8 million to buy nearly 30 acres of land in the Port of Tacoma's Frederickson industrial area
Portland, Ore.-based Freightliner Corp. recently announced two separate recalls affecting more than 15,000 vehicles
After two days of warnings, the government of Quebec is cracking down on striking truckers in the Port of Montreal by slapping the unions representing them with $1 million in fines
A lagging heavy-duty truck market has forced Volvo Trucks North America to eliminate about 200 more jobs at its Dublin, Va., plant
The Clean Air Trust recently accused oil giant ExxonMobil of trying to block the Environmental Protection Agency’s diesel clean-up plan, but the oil company denies the charges
November 6, 2000 - Industry News
Shippers with 150-pound-plus shipments that must be delivered by next-day noon
can now have carriers bid on their business instantly. UrgentFreight, a new FedEx subsidiary, is using a website to match carriers and shippers
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association is claiming a victory in its suit against a Kansas City, Mo., carrier alleging owner-operator leasing violations.
Friday, U.S. District Judge Fernando Gaitan issued a decision on OOIDA's request for a preliminary injunction to restrain Ledar Transport from operations under an often-overlooked provision of Federal Motor Carrier Leasing Regulations that specifies what must be contained in leases between a carrier and the equipment owner
Several major railroads are gearing up to offer new freight services specifically designed to win business from the trucking industry
Volvo is expecting continued problems with its truck unit in the U.S next year, according to published reports
SMC³, the trucking technology company, of Peach Tree City, Ga., has announced it will collaborate with the National Motor Freight Traffic Association and the American Trucking Associations to market the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) used by most less-than-truckload carriers
Truckers trying to get through the Port of Oakland in California regularly experience long waits to pick up or drop off shipping containers, but a proposal from transportation officials could help alleviate the situation
Pilot Corp. recently opened a new travel center in Breaux Bridge, La., located on U.S. Highway 328 at Exit 109, just off Interstate 10
Not too long ago, Allison Transmission's reputation was in tatters as it struggled with production capacity. But the company has come a long way and is now using large customer events such as TestTrack to regain people's confidence
Speedway Travel Centers have announced plans to open five new locations in early 2001
More than 400 striking truck-drivers gathered at the Palais des Congres in Montreal late last week to vent their anger at the provincial government, accusing it of trying to stop their attempts at a union-negotiated labor agreement
As Kathi Blevins and her service dog Oakley made their way through Peterbilt's Denton, Texas, manufacturing facility, they were met with inquisitive eyes, friendly smiles, welcoming waves and a few requests to pet the yellow Labrador.
We offer e-newsletters that deliver targeted news and information for the entire fleet industry.
The expert, Mark Betner from CITGO, will answer your questions
The expert, Rence Oliphant from Hendrickson, will answer your questions
McLeod Offers ‘Branded’ Driver App for Fleets
Paccar Announces MX-11 Diesel for North America
LED Flashlight Highlights A/C Leaks
LockLight Indicates When a Lift is Safe

domain: news


text:
Visual Content is Yet to Be Leveraged Fully by MarketersAdd bookmark
Infographics, videos and other visuals can provide a differentiated way to communicate with customers, but is not yet used as much as it could be.
Creating a diverse range of content to increase brand awareness and enhance the customer experience, is a common marketing strategy nowadays, yet despite a majority of 65 per cent of senior marketing executives understanding the value of visual assets in communication, new research has found that just 27 per cent have the ability to aggregate, organise and manage these assets across marketing and non-marketing teams - including those outside of the organisation.
This figure is particularly surprising considering that video in particular is a great way to leverage value from visuals nowadays, with YouTube alone comprising over one billion users and hundreds of millions of hours of videos are watched on the platform each day.
And the study from the Chief Marketing Officer Council - entitled "From Content to Creativity: The Role of Visual Media in Impactful Brand Storytelling" - reveals that 79 per cent of the senior marketers questioned believe that video will most dramatically increase in importance in the near future. Infographics (60 per cent), photographs (50 per cent) and illustrations (41 per cent) are also expected to increase in usage.
Conducted in partnership with Libris, the study reveals that internal silos, disconnected content development strategies and a vast list of other marketing priorities have prevented visual assets from being fully leveraged across the organisation.
Liz Miller, Senior Vice President of Marketing for the CMO Council, explained: "Marketers have been remiss in approaching the visual asset dialogue as part of the strategic customer experience and engagement dialogue.
"Perhaps because visual assets have long been the domain of creative or agency resources, the conversation around maximising value across the organisation has fallen off of the priority list.
"But as customers continue to react in meaningful ways to visual media, marketing cannot afford to stand idly by and not include visuals in the content ROI agenda."
Research from Zabisco also confirms that 40 per cent of customers will respond better to visual information than plain text.
Marketers have, in turn, shifted content production to include vast quantities of graphics, videos, photography and illustrations. And Zabisco estimates that infographic production increases by 1 per cent every day.
Yet according to the marketing executives surveyed by the CMO Council in the second quarter of 2015, current investments in centralisation of these assets do not reflect this level of priority.
The audit, conducted through the CMO Council’s Content ROI Center, tapped into the insights of 177 senior marketers, with 52 per cent from B2B organisations, 18 per cent from B2C companies and 30 per cent from hybrid organisations selling to B2B2C. A quarter of respondents hail from organisations with more than $1 billion in annual revenue, and 41 per cent hold chief marketing officer, head of marketing or senior vice president of marketing titles.
The clear conclusion from the report is that marketers can do more with visual content to engage with customers and increase brand awareness. How is the split between text and visual in your business? Are you making the most use of the different types of content available to you?


text:
Businesses are always looking for ways to reduce their overheads and among the expenses are the costs of vehicles or paying mileage to employees whose jobs involve driving.
In addition, now concerns for the environment and climate change have moved to the top of the agenda and a business being able to demonstrate that it is “green” can do wonders for its reputation.
So, the advent of electrically powered vehicles (EVs) – and eventually perhaps driverless cars – might be considered welcome news for businesses.
However, according to Wired UK, the UK is well behind Europe in its uptake of EVs.
It says that a report by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (EAMA) found that in the UK in the first three months of 2019 registrations of hybrids and fully electric vehicles “increased by just 2.9 per cent, compared to the EU average of 40 per cent”.
With very few vehicle manufacturers left in the UK and the UK Government last year cutting subsidies for pure electric cars from £4,500 to £3,500, and completely eliminating the £2,500 grant for hybrid vehicles the manufacturers say it is not cost effective to make them in the UK because of the low volume of sales.
One reason that has been suggested for low sales volumes, apart from the generally higher prices of HVs and hybrids, is that many people worry about the batteries running out mid-journey. Although charging points are increasing, particularly at motorway service areas, there are still places, particularly in the rural parts of the UK, where they are in short supply.
Driverless cars are still a long way off
The BBC’s technology expert Rory Cellan-Jones recently explored the experience of travelling in a driverless vehicle, using a taxi service.
One problem encountered was that the vehicles missed exit points because of a solid line of traffic.
Then there have been accidents, in one case when an Uber car, in which there was a safety driver, ploughed into a woman pushing a bike across a road near Arizona State University.
These illustrate that there are still issues to be sorted out before driverless cars become more widespread and are largely to do with the real problems in mixing the robots, the human drivers and pedestrians on the same streets.
It seems it will be some time yet before driverless cars will become a feature of our roads.


text:
Jaguar creates two F-TYPE Convertible rally cars to continue its celebration of 70 years of Jaguar sports cars
With design cues from F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition, the 300PS 2.0-litre rally cars feature bespoke FIA-spec modifications
One-off rally cars pay homage to the Jaguar XK 120, introduced in 1948, which itself achieved competition success in the RAC, Tulip and Alpine rallies
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 12 November 2018: Jaguar has developed two F-TYPE Convertible rally cars, with design cues from the F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition, to continue its celebration of 70 years of sports car heritage since the XK 120 was revealed in 1948.
The one-off F-TYPE rally cars also pay homage to the legendary Jaguar XK 120 registered ‘NUB 120’ which, in the early ......read more
Third Winner of the Audi Innovation Award to be announced on 13th November at 3pm at Design Week in the Audi Innovation Hub
The Audi Innovation Hub is a space designed by Riyad Joucka, founder – MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network) and will be the base for Audi Innovation Talks during Dubai Design Week
Konrad Troeger, Senior Lighting Designer from Audi AG attending Design Week and to give Innovation Talk
Dubai, UAE, November 12, 2018: The Audi Innovation Award is now in its third year and has consistently grown in status and popularity since its inception in 2016. The first of its kind in the Middle East, the Audi Innovation Award seeks to empower local designers and inspire the region with innovative creations that can improve the way we live. It is an annual competition open to anyone residing in the ......read more
Dubai, UAE, November 08, 2018: BMW is forging ahead with its model offensive in the luxury segment with the presentation of an open-top sports car which explores the highest reaches of dynamic flair, emotionality and exclusivity. The new BMW 8 Series Convertible blends ultra-sporty driving properties with distinctive design elegance and offers an extremely exclusive passport to hallmark BMW driving pleasure and a full-blooded open-top driving experience.
Premiere for the second model in the new BMW 8 Series luxury-class line-up: New BMW 8 Series Convertible combines dynamic flair and serene long-distance ability with a sumptuous open-top driving experience.
Open-air driving pleasure for four people. Classical soft-top roof with fully electric, extremely quiet operation, minimised weight and outstanding acoustic ......read more
Arc has pioneered Vector, the most efficient, safest and most fulfilling electric motorcycle experience yet
Vector has been revealed in Milan on 6 November
Vector comes with ground breaking haptic ride-wear and connected HUD helmet
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 07, 2018 – InMotion Ventures, Jaguar Land Rover’s venture capital fund, announces its investment in Arc, which unveils ‘Vector’ – the world’s first fully-electric motorcycle with Human Machine Interface (HMI). Arc Vector is the most advanced electric motorcycle ever brought to market, using exotic materials, thoroughbred componentry and cutting-edge architecture, wrapped in a futuristic body.
The investment from InMotion Ventures, along with Mercia Fund Managers, the Proof of Concept & ......read more
Al-Futtaim Automotive showcases a diversified fleet of passenger and commercial green vehicles echoing the UAE’s commitment to a sustainable future
Toyota to sell 5 million electrified vehicles including more than 1 million zero-emission vehicles (BEVs, FCEVs) by 2030
Toyota will invest 14 billion dollars to support the new plans
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, Nov 7th 2018: Displaying a variety of green technologies through a sample fleet of over nine electrified vehicles including models from Toyota, Lexus, Hino trucks and Toyota Material Handling, Al-Futtaim Automotive is front and centre at this year's International Conference on Future Mobility, being the Headline Sponsor for what has grown to become one of the region’s biggest sustainability forums.
Featuring a hydrogen ......read more
New model features bold new dynamic look with premium exterior styling upgrade
Smart interior includes dual-tone leather trim and latest cutting-edge technology
Fastback family sedan’s 1.5 L turbo engine offers 169hp and 0-100 kph in seven seconds
MG6 is the most spacious C Segment car on the market
Dubai, UAE, November 07, 2018: The all-new MG6 sedan has officially arrived in the Middle East. Now in its third generation, the new 2019 MG6 model has been upgraded with an array of premium and sporty features whilst delivering performance, efficiency and class-leading comfort.
With quality design features normally found on luxury brands, the MG6 has been given a new ‘Star Rider’ grill, carbon fibre detailing and LED headlamps - inspired by the London Eye - with progressive indicators. ......read more
Land Rover works with the Red Cross to help people in remote areas susceptible to disaster
World Disaster Report states 134 million people will need humanitarian assistance in 2018
Mexican Red Cross project alone aims to support 55,000 people in vulnerable communities
Together Land Rover and the Red Cross have helped over one million people globally since 2013
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 6 November 2018 – Natural disasters can strike at any time, so Land Rover and the Red Cross are helping people in remote areas to prepare for the worst.
Such support has never been more important: the World Disaster Report 2018 estimates 134 million people will need humanitarian assistance this year. The report, by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), ......read more
Festival-goers will be the first in the region to set sight on Cadillac’s first-ever compact SUV model
This is the fourth year the brand has collaborated with the region’s biggest cultural festival
Dubai, UAE, November 06, 2018: Cadillac has announced that the region’s biggest cultural festival, SOLE DXB, will set the stage for the unveiling of the brand’s very first compact SUV, the all-new XT4. Kicking off Cadillac’s product offensive through to 2020, the new model is aimed at the type of young, upwardly mobile consumers that the three-night, two-day festival attracts every year.
Running from December 6th to 8th, SOLE DXB will give its millennial audience, an exclusive opportunity to experience first-hand the all-new XT4 as part of the bespoke Cadillac themed activations ......read more
For a limited time only, customers can celebrate the New Year early with remarkable value on select Toyota SUV models
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 06, 2018: Al-Futtaim Toyota is ringing in the New Year festivities early with the launch of its “Celebrate 2019 Now” campaign, inviting customers to celebrate the New Year by treating themselves to special deals on a select range of SUV models, coupled with complementary four-year or 80,000 km service contracts.
Customers looking for the ultimate in off-road ability and urban presence can choose from the 2019 Land Cruiser 5.7L GXR, 5.7L VXR and the newly introduced Grand Touring edition. While those looking for a great family SUV, they can opt for 2019 Prado providing them ample space and comfort. Also, part of the promotion is the proven 2019 ......read more
Al- Futtaim Toyota introduces the new GX grade
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 04, 2018: Following the launch of the 2019 seven-seater Rush EX SUV earlier this year, Al-Futtaim Toyota, introduces the GX grade offering customers even greater value for money with a longer list of standard equipment.
Powered by an economical 1.5L four-cylinder engine making 103 horsepower, 13.8 Kg-M of torque and comfortable seating for seven, the Toyota Rush is the perfect family vehicle.
On the exterior the Rush GX includes a new smoke finish radiator grille, front fog lamps and headlights which lend a new level of aggression to the front fascia.
Equally kitted on the interior the GX hosts a full-colour infotainment system and Bluetooth, while the audio system has also been upgraded with eight speakers. Also ......read more
Selfridges Edition Land Rover Defender takes centre stage as London store unveils its new menswear space
Unique Defender 110 Works V8 Soft Top, complete with branded hood in trademark Selfridges yellow, will be on permanent display in the store
Shoppers will be able to sit in the one-off model and get a real feel for the iconic British vehicle
Finished 4x4 took five Land Rover Classic workers just over four days to rebuild on the shop floor after entering the building as a rolling chassis
New Designer Street Room at the Oxford Street store is now open and home to the Selfridges Edition Land Rover Defender Works V8
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 1 November 2018: A unique Land Rover Defender Works V8 is now on permanent display in the new Designer Street Room at Selfridges’ flagship department store ......read more
Scania has launched its new truck generation in the UAE in full range – long-haulage, urban, and construction (XT) applications
Scania’s new truck generation focuses on customer profitability, by providing customised transportation solutions for an even better total operating economy
Dubai, UAE, November 01, 2018: Scania, the world’s leading provider of transport solutions, has announced the launch of its¬¬ new and complete truck range in the UAE. Scania’s new truck generation is extending its offering, and can now, with its unique modular system, supply more performance steps, connectivity, and a comprehensive palette of productivity-enhancing services as well as customised transportation solutions. The promise is that Scania's customers will always be able to carry out their work in ......read more
F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition Coupé and Convertible revealed, celebrating 70 years of Jaguar sports cars since the XK 120’s introduction
Features include Chequered Flag badging, and unique branding on the headrests, tread plates and dark brushed aluminium centre console finisher
Windsor Leather interior with embossed Performance Seats, Ebony Suedecloth headlining and steering wheel with red top centre marker
Touch Pro infotainment system now with Apple CarPlay
Available in Caldera Red, Fuji White or Carpathian Grey matched with Black Contrast Roof* and 20-inch wheels in Gloss Black with Diamond Turned finish
Powered by the 300PS four-cylinder and 340PS and 380PS supercharged V6 engines exclusively with eight-speed Quickshift transmissions
Refined damper tune on F-TYPE R, improving ride comfort at ......read more
Strong and efficient turbo engine features an industry-first tri-power system
The engine will debut in the Middle East later this year on the all-new Cadillac XT4
Dubai, UAE, October 24, 2018: Cadillac has developed a new 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo engine as part of an all-new global architecture of versatile, high-efficiency engines representing the next generation of advanced powertrain engineering. Debuted earlier this year on the brand’s new compact SUV – the XT4, the lightweight engine, engineered with industry-leading valvetrain technology, delivers efficient performance, with immense power on demand at all speeds.
Set to launch in the Middle East later this year on the all-new Cadillac XT4, the new 2.0-liter turbo-charged engine features an advanced, power-dense ......read more
Dubai, UAE, October 24, 2018: Maserati announces an extended customer care service for its customers in the Middle East and Africa offering a seven-year maintenance and warranty package ensuring owners have peace of mind that their vehicle is kept in perfect working condition.
The 7-year Service Package is Maserati’s exclusive service that ensures that its cars are maintained at the highest level of efficiency and performance for years to come. The 7-year Service Package is linked to each individual vehicle and can be extended to any eventual subsequent owner during the entire seven-year period.
“The 7-year Service package gives customers maximum peace of mind and assurance that their vehicle meets the company’s strict requirements for safety, performance and reliability. This exclusive ......read more
By Sherif Marakby, CEO, Ford Autonomous Vehicles LLC
Ford is expanding its autonomous vehicle testing to Washington, D.C.
Ford and Washington, D.C. officials are committed to exploring how self-driving vehicles can be deployed in an equitable way across the various neighborhoods that make up Washington, D.C., and in a way that promotes job creation
Ford is also collaborating with the D.C. Infrastructure Academy in Ward 8, a workforce training centre, to prepare residents for jobs as vehicle operators and auto technicians
DUBAI, UAE, October 23, 2018 – Just like guiding a bill through Congress, establishing a self-driving vehicle business requires a lot of coordination. Not only do self-driving vehicles need to operate safely and reliably, but they also need to work in concert with the businesses, people and cities ......read more
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; October 23, 2018: Masdar City, Abu Dhabi’s flagship sustainable urban development, has embarked on the next phase of its sustainable mobility network with today’s formal unveiling of its first NAVYA autonomous vehicle.
Capable of transporting up to 12 people, the ‘Autonom® Shuttle’ was inaugurated in the presence of dignitaries representing the Department of Transport, Abu Dhabi Police, and the French Embassy.
Also attending were Khaled Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer for Aerospace, Renewables & ICT at Mubadala Investment Company; Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company); Mohammed Darwish Al Qamzi, General Manager of Integrated Transport Center, Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi and Jérôme Rigaud, Deputy CEO of NAVYA ......read more
France wins gold in the Jaguar Land Rover Driving Challenge, with hosts Australia claiming silver and United Kingdom bronze
First medals of the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 awarded by TRH Duke and Duchess of Sussex on Cockatoo Island, Sydney, ahead of tonight’s Invictus Games opening ceremony
Jaguar Land Rover is the Presenting Partner of the Invictus Games Sydney 2018, the international sporting event for wounded, injured and ill veteran and active service personnel
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 22 October 2018 – The Invictus Games Sydney 2018 presented by Jaguar Land Rover got off to a flying start for France, as they were awarded the first gold medals of the Games by TRH The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The France team, made up of Cedric Arci and Mickael Ranchin, took gold in the Jaguar Land Rover ......read more
Nissan Patrol Falcon, Gazelle and Gazelle X added to iconic Safari line-up
Dubai, UAE: 21 October 2018 – Nissan has expanded the iconic Patrol Safari range with the introduction of three exciting new editions. Exclusively developed for and available to customers in the Middle East, these cars are inspired by and named after two of the most iconic animals to inhabit the desert sands and skies of the region, the majestic soaring Falcon and fleet-footed Gazelle.
The Patrol Safari range has a long-standing heritage in the Middle East. With its rugged exterior good-looks, and superb off-roading capabilities that can conquer any terrain, the car has gained legendary status in the popular culture of the region. The introduction of the three new editions, the Patrol Falcon, Gazelle and Gazelle X, are set to continue the ......read more
October 21, 2018: Aston Martin Lagonda’s sixth region – Middle East, North Africa & Turkey (MENAT) – has been fully integrated into international operations with its UAE-based representative office now up and running. Previously President of Aston Martin UK & South Africa, Dan Balmer has taken the role of President, MENAT, and will head the team from the luxury British marque’s new regional office in Abu Dhabi.
Tasked with aligning the region with Aston Martin’s global strategy and driving forward President & Group CEO Dr Andy Palmer’s revolutionary Second Century Plan, Balmer will be responsible for a network of 11 dealers across the region.
“After months of preparation, we are pleased to finally be here and to speak out loud and proud about our plans for the Middle ......read more
The BMW X7 is the first car to fuse the presence, exclusivity and spaciousness of a luxury model with the agile and versatile driving properties expected of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).
A new dimension in luxury: The first BMW X7 combines the presence, exclusivity and spaciousness of a luxury car with the versatile, agile driving properties of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Production will take place at BMW Plant Spartanburg (USA). Market launch will be March 2019.
The largest BMW X model is 5,151 millimetres in length, 2,000 millimetres wide and 1,805 millimetres tall, and has a wheelbase of 3,105 millimetres. Its clear and precise design language spans a punchy, extremely prominent front end, large windows, high ground clearance, a long roofline and a two-section split tailgate. Exclusive detailing includes ......read more
Graphene is a material used in coating, cell phones and even some sporting goods – and soon, will be used under the hood in Ford vehicles, a first in automotive
Ford, along with Eagle Industries and XG Sciences, has found a way to use a very small amount of graphene while achieving major property improvements – more lightweight, better heat conductivity and noise reduction – a breakthrough application
In vehicles, graphene – which is lightweight and incredibly strong – will act like a pair of super-powered, noise cancelling headphones, reducing sound inside the cabin and creating a quieter ride
DUBAI, UAE, October 18, 2018 – It’s in cell phones and even some sporting goods – and soon, for the first time in automotive, it will be under the hood in Ford vehicles. ......read more
Dubai, UAE, October 15, 2018: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced that it is recruiting for 200 new positions, all based at the company’s Head Office and Manufacturing Plant in Goodwood, West Sussex. The new roles will bring the total workforce to over 2000 for the first time, a six-fold increase on the original total when the company first opened, at Goodwood, in 2003.
The new roles are available across all skilled production areas, including Wood, Leather, Assembly, Test & Finish, Paint and Logistics. The successful applicants will undergo extensive training before handbuilding the company’s model family members, including Phantom, Ghost, Wraith, Dawn and Cullinan.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, “I am delighted to announce our new recruitment programme. This ......read more
Dubai, UAE; Monday 15th October 2018 – W Motors has launched the all-new ‘BEAST PATROL’ in partnership with Safe City Group, following the advanced technology company’s initiative to develop the most advanced police vehicle in the world. The distinctive and highly advanced BEAST PATROL was showcased for the first time at GITEX Technology Week from 14th-18th October 2018, Dubai.
The BEAST PATROL integrates distinctive and highly advanced technologies, functionality and reliability, setting a new standard for security vehicles on an international level. With the introduction of this state-of-the-art vehicle - created by its Special Project Operations Division - W Motors demonstrates that its design and manufacturing capabilities go beyond the development of hypercars.
With striking new design details and a comprehensive list of equipment upgrades, the new Land Cruiser Grand Touring Edition brings the king’s indomitable spirit to the city streets
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 14, 2018: Having firmly positioned itself as the King of the Desert with bullet-proof reliability and exceptional off-road abilities, the Toyota Land Cruiser also dominates the concrete jungle, as the 2019line-up sees the introduction of the ultimate urban-spec SUV, the Grand Touring edition (GT) that comes with a host of features, designed to make city driving even more fulfilling than ever before.
Adding to the existing line-up of the entry level EXR, GXR and top-of-the-line VXR, the new GT edition, available exclusively in the GXR grade with a 4.0-litre V6 or 4.6-litre V8 ......read more
Brand partnership with Shell begins at preseason test
Dubai, UAE, October 14, 2018: Nissan will make its official on-track debut and begin a new brand partnership with Royal Dutch Shell PLC when the ABB FIA Formula E championship stages its preseason test this week.
The Nissan e.dams team will conduct three days of testing at Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain, alongside the other 10 teams competing in the upcoming season of the all-electric racing championship.
As the first Japanese company to enter Formula E, Nissan will draw on its track record of selling ......read more
The F-150 Raptor re-defines what it means to be the only purpose-built, high-performance off-road truck
Second generation 3.5-litre twin turbo EcoBoost, producing 421 horsepower and up to 691 Nm of terrain-busting torque
Raptor’s versatility as a motorway cruiser and off-roader put to the test in Omani adventure over summer
DUBAI, UAE, October 10, 2018 – Great vehicles inspire great adventure – and the Ford F-150 Raptor is the perfect tool for thrill-seekers and wanderlusters looking to explore corners of the region that lie beyond the reach of ......read more
First self-driving journey on challenging Coventry Ring Road completed by a Range Rover Sport
Vehicle can handle junctions, slip roads and lane changes – all autonomously at 40mph speed limit
Trials are part of £20 million government-funded UK Autodrive project that ends this month
Jaguar Land Rover plans to make self-driving vehicles a reality for customers within 10 years
Dubai, United Arab Emirates; 10 October 2018 – A Range Rover Sport has completed the first ever self-driving lap of one of the UK’s most challenging road layouts. A ......read more
The new UAE Tour’s event identity and winner’s prize are presented in style
The Middle East’s only WorldTour race is scheduled from 24 February to 2 March 2019
Audi Al Nabooda is confirmed as the official car of the race
Dubai, UAE, October 09, 2018: In the Audi Dubai Showroom, home of Al Nabooda Automobiles, the Supreme Organising Committee of the UAE Tour have unveiled the event’s new logo and the new winner’s trophy. Both heptagonal – seven sided – shapes to reference the seven United Arab Emirates involved: Abu Dhabi, ......read more
Al-Futtaim Lexus invites UAE-based creators to design a better tomorrow
Dubai, UAE –October 8th, 2018: Al-Futtaim Lexus invites all UAE-based artists and creators to participate in the 7th edition of the Lexus Design Award 2019. Since its launch in 2013, the worldwide design competition has served as a platform for emerging designers and creators whose works can lead to a better future for all. The annual event attracts thousands of upcoming creative talents from around the world, who aspire to win the coveted award for innovative design excellence.
Making ......read more
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 07, 2018: Whether you are in the market for the mighty Land Cruiser, the practical and reliable Camry or the nippy Yaris city car, there are exceptional deals to be had on a range of 2018 Toyota vehicles this October.
Available for a limited period of time ‘Bye. Bye. Buy’ is Al-Futtaim Toyota’s latest campaign, and it offers customers unprecedented value when choosing a brand new 2018 Toyota vehicle including Land Cruiser, Prado, FJ Cruiser, RAV4, Camry, Corolla and Yaris, making car ownership easier than ever ......read more
Six global winners, three special prizes from 47 regional winners
Eighth annual Land Rover BORN Awards held at The Design Museum, London
Honouring creative intelligence in six categories: architecture, interiors, sport, fashion, mobility and technology
The 2019 awards theme announced as ‘Desire’
Online registration now open for Land Rover BORN Awards 2019
Dubai, United Arab Emirates; 07 October 2018 – Creative greats from around the world gathered at the Design Museum for the eighth annual Land Rover BORN Awards. Honouring creative intelligence in ......read more
Powerful vehicle now available at Al Tayer Motors and Premier Motors
Dubai, UAE, October 07, 2018: The Ford F-150 vehicle line up in the UAE received a powerful boost with the Limited Edition Shelby version with 755 HP arriving at Al Tayer Motors’ showrooms in Dubai & the Northern Emirates, and Premier Motors’ showrooms in Abu Dhabi.
A limited number of vehicles are available for sale through the UAE’s official importer-dealer for Ford vehicles, which retails 24 variants of the multiple award-winning full-size pickup truck.
Also joining the line-up ......read more
Dubai, UAE, October 03, 2018: After its world premiere at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance®, the new special series Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has made its European debut at the Paris Motor Show. The 50th drop-top model to be introduced by the Prancing Horse is also the most powerful series production spider in Ferrari history, with an unprecedented weight/power ratio of 1.92 kg/cv.
The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider combines the finest race-developed technological solutions with the joy of en plein air driving to deliver an exhilarating experience ......read more
Dubai, UAE, October 03, 2018: F-MAX, the new tractor that Ford Trucks launched at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018, has won the “2019 International Truck of the Year”. The competition was adjudicated by a panel of independent judges, comprising leading specialised journalists from 23 European countries.
The new Ford Trucks tractor F-MAX, which was launched at IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 in Hanover, Germany, has won the “2019 International Truck of the Year” award. The prestigious award of the heavy commercial vehicles industry was presented by ......read more
Models inspired by the Sports cars that made history
Dubai, UAE, October 03, 2018: The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are the forerunners in a new concept, known as ‘Icona’ (Icon), that taps into a leitmotif of the most evocative cars in the company’s history to create a new segment of special limited series cars for clients and collectors. The intention is to use a modern aesthetic to reinterpret a timeless style, with technologically advanced components and the highest performance possible through continuous innovation.
The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are ......read more
Segment-leading icon celebrates its history of innovation
Dubai, UAE, October 03, 2018: Since its public debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August 1998, the Cadillac Escalade has become a cultural phenomenon and defined the full-size luxury SUV segment.
Escalade quickly grew to dominate its segment in the US, leading in total sales since 2014 and for 15 of the last 20 years. In fact, each year since the Escalade was redesigned in 2015, consumers have spent about USD 3 billion or more on the model. Sales have topped more than three-quarters ......read more
Adamas and Luminary Collections take ‘Bespoke’ to new heights
Abu Dhabi, UAE; 02 October 2018: Abu Dhabi Motors, the sole authorised dealer of Rolls-Royce vehicles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, has welcomed two limited edition Collections to its award-winning showroom. Expanding its unparalleled range of premium and Bespoke vehicles, the arrival of the Adamas and Luminary Collections further define Abu Dhabi Motors’ commitment to excellence, offering discerning customers the ultimate in Rolls-Royce luxury.
Embodying its namesake, the Adamas ......read more
110% year-on-year increase in sales of Nissan Patrol in the UAE in Q1 of fiscal year
MY19 model available in two new stylish colours and with refreshed exterior accessories
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 01 October 2018: Nissan Middle East has unveiled the latest updates to the Nissan Patrol MY19 in the UAE, with two bold new colours added to the line-up, along with exterior accessories that are exclusive to the UAE. Tough on the outside yet welcoming on the inside, the Nissan Patrol is an all-terrain vehicle that effortlessly combines luxurious style and ......read more
All New Ford Trucks F-MAX is ready to offer comfort, Power & Efficiency, and Cutting-Edge Technology
The F-MAX, the all-new tractor developed by Ford Trucks, launched at the 67th IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 in Hanover, Germany.
In its global debut, the F-MAX also won the prestigious International Truck of the Year award.
The newly designed 2.5m cabin combines innovation with cutting-edge technology, and has a cozy but spacious feel to make our drivers feel special.
Cost of ownership is key attribute of the new F-MAX. Cost of ownership is what sets the ......read more
Tougher, smarter and more capable 2018 F-150 is built to take on the region’s toughest terrain
New engines and powertrain combinations offer best in class performance
2018 F-150 debuts Co-Pilot 360 package of safety technologies
Dubai, UAE, September 27, 2018: With class-leading power, smart technology and unrivaled capability and safety features, the Ford F-150 is built to take anything the Middle East can throw at it.
The 2018 F-150 is the distillation of more than 100 years of truck development and the refinement of 42 years of F-Series leadership, ......read more
The mid-size crossover takes the path less travelled, thanks to a blend of professional-grade capability and premium appointments
Dubai, UAE, September 27, 2018: The GMC Acadia All-Terrain mid-size crossover is aimed at helping adventurous and thrill-seeking drivers stray from the beaten path while remaining confident and connected. This family-friendly SUV provides premium amenities and professional-grade capability that can deliver both on-road and off-road experiences.
Available with five-, six- and seven-passenger seating configurations on ......read more
Abu Dhabi, 26 September 2018: Al Masaood, one of the leading family businesses in Abu Dhabi, will be supporting the transport logistics of the Special Olympics World Games, which will be hosted for the first time in the Middle East in March 2019.
The leading UAE-based conglomerate has signed an agreement with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi, to support the world’s biggest sports and humanitarian event of 2019 as its exclusive automotive partner.
Under this agreement, Al Masaood, the authorized distributor of Nissan in Abu Dhabi, Al ......read more
Dubai, UAE, 25 September, 2018: In sweet home Chicago on September 25, 1928 brothers Paul and Joseph Galvin incorporated Motorola’s founding company, Galvin Manufacturing Corporation, with only one product and five employees. Flash forward through #90yearsmotorola and there’s no doubt we have transformed the tech industry. Join us as we travel back through 90 years of innovation and technological breakthroughs to see how we have changed from then to now.
1.) We said “goodbye” to Galvin and “hello” to Motorola
Galvin Manufacturing introduced the ......read more
Jaguar XE sports saloon establishes lap record for a production saloon at the original Circuit de Charade, Clermont Ferrand
Record set on first flying lap of the former GP circuit for 30 years
Vincent Radermecker piloted an XE 300 SPORT around the 8km, 48 turn track in 4min 09sec at an average speed of 116kmh (72mph)
300 SPORT model is powered by a 300PS 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol engine
Feat follows the Nürburgring lap record set by the XE’s track-ready stablemate, the SV Project 8
Track played host to French Grand Prix in 1965, 1969, 1970 and 1972
Dubai, United Arab ......read more
Dubai, UAE, September 25, 2018: The readers' choice "autonis - the best design novelty 2018" of auto motor und sport, the renowned German car magazine, is always a special indicator of the design capabilities of a car brand. During this year's prestigious vote, readers chose the Maserati Ghibli as their number 1 in its “upper-class” segment with more than 20 percent of the 11,990 votes. Overall, readers of auto motor und sport had around 90 models to choose from.
The Ghibli sedan is one of the most important models within the Maserati range. ......read more
Pirelli’s Third Flagship Store Now Opens Its Doors: Next Up Is Dubai at the Beginning of 2019
Pirelli Design Mv Agusta Dragster 800 Rr Also Makes Its World Debut at the Monaco P Zero World Launch
UAE, Dubai, September 24, 2018 – Just a few metres from the Portier corner on the Monaco Grand Prix circuit, which Formula 1 cars go through at 80kph in first gear before charging into the famous tunnel, Pirelli launches its latest P Zero World store. This is the flagship boutique that takes its name from Pirelli’s signature range of ultra high performance ......read more
The new generation of the iconic V12 Lamborghini flagship,
limited to 900 units
Nürburgring-Nordschleife lap record for production cars:
New design features focused on aerodynamic performance
Naturally-aspirated V12 engine, 770 hp, four-wheel drive
and four-wheel steering for technical supremacy
Lightweight materials, racing solutions and ALA 2.0
for best handling performance
0-100km/h in 2.8 seconds, top speed over 350 km/h
Dubai, UAE, September 24, 2018: The distillation of extraordinary ......read more
New video campaign links the beauty of the Portofino with the unique values of the Middle East
Dubai, 23 September 2018 – Ferrari pays tribute to the deep-rooted characteristics and unique values of the Middle East with a new ‘Portofino’ campaign; a breathtaking series of videos showcasing the attributes of four Middle Eastern countries, as celebrated by the stunning design and performance of the Ferrari Portofino.
In the series, the Portofino is exhilaratingly shot tackling the city streets and mountain terrain of the UAE, ......read more
Dubai, UAE, September 23, 2018: While most vintage car enthusiasts seek to return vehicles to their former glory, Jonathan Ward prizes and preserves the beauty in their decay, while hiding some high tech secrets under the hood.
Ward is the founder of ICON, a California-based company that reimagines classic SUVs like Toyota FJs and Ford Broncos with modern tech and materials.
While that remains the bulk of the business, Ward has another, more unusual passion project: take vintage cars and, instead of restoring it to the way that it would have looked and driven when it ......read more


text:
But while it’s taken far too long it does seem to be getting closer:
Africa has built the world’s largest free trade area with 1.3 billion customers, heralded as a chance to begin a new area of prosperity.
The agreement, signed by 54 African states and creating a bloc encompassing economies worth $2.5 trillion, took almost 20 years to negotiate. It is hoped that the African Continental Free Trade Area will give its members the benefits of economies of scale and cheaper imports, which would mean more affordable products. The countries have lacked many of these typical advantages of free trade.
There is that view out there - a particularly silly one in our opinion - that free trade is just the manner by which those of us in the rich countries continue to pillage and colonialise those in the poor. Obviously, we don’t agree. But even if you do want to maintain trade barriers between rich and poor on some spurious grounds of infant industry protection this is still an advance, this free trade area.
The entire continent of Africa is, in economic terms, about the size of the UK. Togo around and about the economic size of Swansea. Swaziland of Wolverhampton. Nigeria or South Africa perhaps equal to London.
Whatever we do about trade beyond the borders of this sceptered isle we all know that we’d be immeasurably poorer if we had trade barriers between the conurbations within it. Even if nothing else just that economies of scale argument - no one British town is large enough to support an entire supply chain of all the necessaries for an advanced industrial society. It would be absurd for Bath, Bristol, Gloucester and Swindon all to have their own steel mills, fertiliser and tyre factories. And yet that’s the sort of economy that a non-internal free trade Africa does have.
It may have taken too long to arrive and implementation is bound to be patchy for a time. But it’s still a good thing - Africans will be richer for it which is, after all, rather the point of having an African economy in the first place.


text:
London, UK: Queue-Fair, the original patented virtual waiting room for business websites, are delighted to announce they are partnering with Acquired.com, a leading payment processing solutions provider. This partnership will bring together two technology-driven solutions which aim to maximise conversion opportunities for eCommerce businesses.
Businesses that utilise Queue-Fair's technology will be able to benefit from Acquired's payments solution and securely process card payments, digital wallets and Faster Payments via web, mobile and virtual terminal with improved conversions and automation. Acquired's payment gateway provides a rapid, secure, and data-driven solution which is poised to deliver improved customer experience and increased payment acceptance rates.
Matt King, Managing Director, Queue-Fair said “We are bringing together the powerful combination of our virtual waiting room and Acquired's seamless payment processing platform. Both our businesses are committed to helping businesses optimise conversion rates and I am excited to see the benefits this partnership will bring to businesses with a high volume of website visitors and payment transactions”
This mutually beneficial partnership will also support Acquired's customers in benefitting from Queue-Fair's powerful Virtual Waiting Room platform. Allowing businesses to safely manage surplus traffic that would otherwise slow down or even crash websites, in a cost-effective manner. Their solution has been developed in the knowledge that thousands of consumers and customers leave sites due to frustration and anxiety every year, costing businesses thousands in conversions and sales. Queue-Fair helps business ensure that visitors to their website always enjoy a responsive experience, even during very busy times.
Gerald Kitchen, Acquired.com's CEO said “Website traffic and payment processing issues can cost businesses thousands in unrealised conversions. We are delighted to be working with Queue-Fair to support businesses in perfecting their eCommerce customer experience through streamlined and secure solutions that are focussed on improving conversion success rates.”
PRESS RELEASE ENDS
Media Contact: Mike Lowe
December 16th 2021
+44 1234 4323
Queue-Fair is available through The Fair Queue People Ltd which is part of the Orderly group, at Queue-Fair.com - the Orderly group also includes Mr King’s award winning WeQ4U app which has had close to two million downloads in the UK and has a 4.9 out of 5 star rating on the Apple Store, Google Play and TrustPilot. WeQ4U won the Real Business Future 50 People’s Champion award in 2012. The app queues for callers so they do not have to stay on hold on the phone, automatically connecting them when an agent answers, as well as saving them around 45p per minute on their 084 and 087 calls. London-based entrepreneur Mr King appeared on BBC Dragon’s Den last summer.
Acquired.com makes payments simple, all on a single platform. We support businesses in accepting card payments, applepay, googlepay and also offer banking services Our deep data expertise and consultative approach enables businesses to accelerate their growth. Our solutions are custom built to overcome the many challenges faced when collecting and remitting funds, and we continuously innovate to build customer-led solutions.
2023 The Fair Queue People Ltd. - All Rights Reserved.
Part of the Orderly family of queue solutions - OrderlyQ - OrderlyStats - WeQ4U


text:
Jobs irate over proposed digital music price hike\"Some leading music labels are in talks with online retailers to \"http://news.ft.com/cms/s/3d9b6fee-892d-11d9-b7ed-00000e2511c8.html\">raise wholesale prices for digital music downloads in an attempt to capitalise on burgeoning demand for legal online music,\" the Financial Times is reporting. The move, which aims to secure the record labels a larger stake in the digital music arena, has reportedly left Apple chief executive Steve Jobs fuming. However, around this last year, Apple \"http://www.macnn.com/articles/04/05/07/appe.no.itunes.price.hike/\">denied similar \"http://www.macnn.com/articles/04/05/07/itms.singles.to.cost.more/\">rumors published by The NY Post. \"These rumors aren\'t true,\" Apple spokeswoman Natalie Sequeira said at the time. \"We have multiyear agreements with the labels and our prices remain 99 cents a track.\" This is the second year in a row that talk of digital music price hikes have surfaced around the anniversary of the iTunes Music Store — a period where Apple\'s contracts with the labels may be up for re-negotiation. The store first launched on April 28, 2003.
On Topic: General
- This week on AI: New MacBook Pro rumors, Apple's answer to Echo, Apple Car charging & more
- Apple details efforts to ease environmental impact at Irish data center
- Jawbone said to end fitness tracker sales, may sell off speaker business [u]
- AirPort Extreme, Time Capsule pulled from U.S. Apple Stores
- Congress won't consider mandatory encryption bill after Apple battle - report


text:
Allstate launched Virtual Assist two years ago to provide a method by which a shop could immediately reach an adjuster and get an answer about a supplement by showing the relevant damage during the video chat.
Gerber could use the service in-house in a similar fashion, according to Allstate.
“Gerber recently tested Virtual Assist using the collaboration software to create internal efficiencies before deciding to license the right to use it across its organization,” Allstate wrote in a news release. “The technology, licensed by Allstate, helps a body shop employee, or potentially a vehicle owner, connect with another employee using real-time video and skill routing technology to gain capacity, reduce overall cycle time and improve the customer experience.
“With Virtual Assist, Gerber’s hundreds of U.S. locations can help each other through their busiest periods. A decision on parts and labor is made in real time, and that helps reduce customer wait times. It all means a faster turnaround for a damage appraisal by an expert, which leads to a better experience for the vehicle owner.”
Gerber said no information which could identify a customer would be shared.
“We are exploring this path with Allstate because technical innovation in the collision repair space is moving quickly,” Boyd Group marketing Vice President Susie Frausto wrote in an email. “Gerber is proud to be taking a test, learn, and iterate approach. How Gerber ultimately uses the technology may become one of the small ways we differentiate ourselves.”
Allstate spokesman Justin Herndon on Tuesday explained why a collision repair chain would use Virtual Assist rather than having locations Skype or FaceTime each other.
“So, FaceTime is a great ‘one to one’ way to share live video,” Herndon wrote in an email. “Virtual Assist is different because it allows the (‘caller’) to be bounced up against a group of individuals that have capacity to handle the supplement right then and there as well as one that is licensed in the state. Virtual Assist uses intelligent routing to make sure the call is handled live by someone that can handle the caller’s need.”
Herndon made a similar point in 2017 in discussing why Allstate and a shop wouldn’t just communicate through typical video chat methods.
A consumer’s ability to chat with a collision repair facility and give or receive a video chat tour of vehicle damage could also make scheduling or approving additional repairs more efficient and consumer-friendly than other options today today.
“Getting the right work to the right resource in real time creates an opportunity for us to handle the entire process during a single customer interaction,” Tim O’Day, president and chief operating officer of Gerber parent Boyd Group, said in a statement. “This has the potential to be a game-changer for our business and the industry.”
Allstate in 2017 had offered to licensed the technology to other insurers, referring them to its telematics spinoff Arity, and Herndon said the Gerber Virtual Assist deal announced Tuesday wasn’t exclusive. Other repairers or even other industries could license the tool.
“As to availability, Virtual Assist was conceived and built as an industry solution and is available to companies who see value in licensing the collaboration tool,” he wrote. “This might be MSO’s, other insurers, IoT device support companies, or even roofing contractors.”
Allstate, May 28, 2019
Allstate’s Virtual Assist App is shown in this image provided by Allstate. (Provided by Allstate)
Allstate’s Virtual Assist is shown in these images provided by Allstate. (Provided by Allstate)


text:
MUSKEGON, MI – Former Trophy House sales employee Matthew Edwin Preston has pleaded no contest to felony embezzlement for the theft of thousands of dollars worth of team uniforms and other merchandise from the Muskegon company.
Under a plea agreement with the Muskegon County Prosecutor’s Office with the consent of the victims, Preston will be allowed to withdraw his felony plea and earn a misdemeanor conviction if he pays full restitution, according to court records.
Preston pleaded as charged Friday morning, Feb. 1, to embezzlement of between $1,000 and $20,000. Muskegon County 14th Circuit Judge Timothy G. Hicks scheduled sentencing for 1:30 p.m. March 11.
Preston, 44, of Roosevelt Park was charged in March 2012 with stealing team uniforms valued at about $8,000 from Trophy House & Jones Sports, 2350 Henry St.
The stolen merchandise included uniforms and warmups that Preston delivered to local high school and middle school sports teams in 2010 and 2011, according to a Trophy House news release. School officials believed the merchandise, which the schools did not order, had been donated anonymously, the company said.
School officials cooperated in the investigation.
Preston was fired in December 2011 for an unrelated reason, according to the company. Company officials uncovered abnormalities while completing paperwork for Preston’s final sales commission, leading to discovery of the 2011 theft, the company said. Further investigation led to discovery of merchandise stolen in 2010.
“We are very satisfied with the outcome,” the Trophy House said in a statement.
Trophy House & Jones Sports is an independently owned and operated supplier of team-sports merchandise, retail sporting goods, trophies, awards and corporate promotional products.


text:
Salmon bacon recall issued by seafood processor
Fearing that a segment of its products could potentially be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum – a bacterium known to cause botulism – the Swinomish Fish Company has decided to recall packages of its Native Catch Salmon Bacon.
The recall includes both traditional and peppered packs of the Native Catch Salmon Bacon with “Best Buy” dates that fall on or between 23 January 2016 and 16 March 2016. The action comes after a routine inspection conducted by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) raised concerns that the products were potentially under-processed.
As of now, no illnesses linked to the consumption of the product have been reported. All other offerings associated with the Native Catch product line are not affected or involved in the recall.
The recall has been made with the awareness of the WSDA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), said Swinomish, and retail outlets selling the products are being notified to remove the affected date-coded packages from their shelves and warehouses immediately. Potentially contaminated items were shipped to Washington and Florida retail locations between 10 August 2015 through to 11 December 2015, according to an FDA press release.
Specific item codes are as follows:
- Peppered flavor with UPC: 7 83583 27965 9, packaged in 8 oz. and 14 oz. clear vacuum bag with Best By codes 1/23/16 and 3/16/16.
- Traditional flavor with UPC: 7 51778 15900 0, packaged in 8 oz. and 14 oz. clear vacuum bags with BEST BY codes 1/23/16 and 3/16/16.


text: Dairy farmers across Wisconsin got less for their milk to end last year, but it’s more than they were getting a year-ago. The USDA released its latest milk price report yesterday. The report says Wisconsin dairy farmers got 23-dollars and 30-cents per hundredweight in December of last year. That’s down 30 cents from November of last year, but a dollar-80 more than farmers got back in December of 2021. Nationally, milk was $24.70 per hundredweight to end 2022, compared to $21.70 at the end of 2021.


text:
- Google and Samsung have confirmed the existence of security vulnerabilities affecting millions of devices.
- The vulnerability impacts all Google handsets, including those beyond the Pixel product line.
Erez Yalon, Director of Security Research at Checkmarx disclosed the security vulnerability stemming from permission bypass issues on Tuesday. The bug, dubbed as CVE-2019-2234, allows cybercriminals to hijack Android’s phone camera and covertly take pictures or record video even if a device is locked.
The vulnerability impacts all Google handsets, including those beyond the Pixel product line.
How the bug got discovered?
Checkmarx, after discovering the flaw on Google and Samsung devices, commented that it is possible that hundreds of millions of end users could be susceptible to the exploit.
- The researchers started with a security investigation of smartphones' camera capabilities by exploring the Google Camera app on a Google Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 3.
- As per the discovery, the researchers could tamper with devices using particular actions and, overall, make it possible for rogue applications without specific permissions to control the Google Camera app.
- They could take photos, record video during the moment target device was locked or when the screen was turned off, or even when a victim was speaking on a phone call.
In Google devices, however, users must accept permission requests, but in Checkmarx's attack scenario, these requirements were overlooked and bypassed.
"Unfortunately, storage permissions are very broad and these permissions give access to the entire SD card," the researchers note. "There are a large number of applications, with legitimate use-cases, that request access to this storage, yet have no special interest in photos or videos. In fact, it's one of the most common requested permissions observed."
Additionally, since images are often recorded and embedded with the GPS metadata while being stored on the device, it is possible that an attacker could extract this data and gain knowledge of the target’s whereabouts.
To consider a worst-case scenario for the identified vulnerability, researchers performed a demonstration mocking a weather app. The app, when opened, connects to a C&C server and waits for the operator to send commands to take and steal footage.
Using the PoC exploit, they could perform functions including:
- Taking a photo or recording a video and uploading it to the C&C
- Silence the phone while taking photos and recording videos
- Parse photos for GPS tags and locate the phone on a global map, and more.
The experiment proved that, as long as there are basic storage permissions in place, this attack vector is possible.
Google was informed of the researchers' findings on July 4, 2019, and by August 1, Google registered the CVE and confirmed that it affected other vendors too. A fix was soon released, leading to public disclosure.
Comments from the giants
Google thanked the research team who discovered the flaw and said, "the issue was addressed on impacted Google devices via a Play Store update to the Google Camera Application in July 2019. A patch has also been made available to all partners.”
A Samsung spokesperson told ZDNet, "Since being notified of this issue by Google, we have subsequently released patches to address all Samsung device models that may be affected. We value our partnership with the Android team that allowed us to identify and address this matter directly."
For proper mitigation and as a general best practice, keep all applications on your device up-to-date.


text:
Print Edition - 2018-05-25 | MONEY
Carmakers dismayed as US weighs auto tariffs
-, FRANKFURT AM MAIN
May 25, 2018-
German automakers reacted with dismay Thursday as the US Commerce Department said tariffs on car imports could be on the horizon, potentially opening a new front in a burgeoning transatlantic trade conflict.“One-sided protectionism has never helped anyone in the long term. Only free
and fair trade secures increased prosperity,” a spokesman for industry behemoth Volkswagen told AFP.
American Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross had announced Wednesday he had initiated a so-called Section 232 investigation on auto trade—which would provide the legal basis to impose tariffs, if his department finds imports threaten US national security—after speaking with President Donald Trump on the matter.
Ross promised “a thorough, fair, and transparent investigation into whether (auto) imports are weakening our internal economy and may impair the national security.”
The move comes as a June 1 deadline approaches for the White House to decide whether imports from the EU will remain exempt from border taxes slapped on steel and aluminium.
Trump’s recourse to national security arguments for potential tariffs echoes his justification for the metals duties. In a separate statement released by the White House, the president said “core industries such as automobiles and automotive parts are critical to our strength as a nation.”
Germany’s Federation of the Automotive Industry (VDA) noted that German carmakers employ some 36,500 people in the US and car parts producers 80,000 more. And it highlighted German firms’ “significant contribution to the American balance of trade in cars” with their exports to third countries.
“An increase in tariff barriers should be avoided,” the body said, saying it had “always spoken out in favour of mutual reductions in tariffs and for free-trade agreements”. German carmakers exported 494,000 vehicles to the US last year, the VDA said, while the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) calculated autos and parts accounted for 28.6 billion euros ($33.6 billion) of Germany’s 111.5 billion euros in exports to the US.
Shares in Volkswagen, high-end BMW and Mercedes-Benz maker Daimler were among the worst performers in the DAX index of blue-chip German shares just before midday (1100 GMT) Thursday.
Imposing car tariffs would open yet another front in the Republican president’s confrontational rows over trade that have drawn global outcry from allies and partners.
“Evidence of significant economic damage due to the trade conflict is mounting,” tweeted economist Marcel Fratzscher of the DIW think-tank in Berlin.
“The Trump administration now adding new threats with tariffs on European cars could make things a lot worse.” Meanwhile Japan’s trade minister Hiroshige Seko said Thursday that car tariffs would “plunge the world market into confusion” and be “extremely regrettable.” Passenger cars make up around 30 percent of Japan’s total exports to the United States and Tokyo has already threatened Washington with retaliation at the World Trade Organisation for the steel tariffs.
The Wall Street Journal reported earlier Wednesday that Trump was asking for vehicle import tariffs as high as 25 percent.
Published: 25-05-2018 09:01


text:
Royal Cashews, a proud Sri Lankan company empowering local cashew cultivators, and has reached greater heights in local and international markets, won the Gold Award in the Snacks and Confectionery Product category at the National Industrial Excellence Awards organised by the Industrial Development Board (IDB). The award ceremony was recently held at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre in Colombo under the patronage of the President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the Minister of Health and Industries Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, the State Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Prasanna Ranaweera, the State Minister of Primary Industries Chamara Sampath Dasanayake, and the Chairman of the IDB Dr. Saranga Alahapperuma.
Being the first cashew processing company in Sri Lanka with all certificates of standardisation such as the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems Standard Certification, the ISO 22000:2018 Food Safety Management Systems Standard Certification, the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Certifications, Royal Cashews is working painstakingly to add new, high quality cashew products with scientifically enhanced new flavours to both local and international markets. Royal Cashews cashew nut and related products are exported to several parts of the world such as Malaysia, Japan, America, Switzerland, Britain, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, China, West Indies, and Maldives. In addition, it is Royal Cashews that has the largest cashew sales outlet network in the country with 15 showrooms located in foremost locations such as One Galle Face, Shangri-La, Colombo City Centre, Crescat, Marino Mall, WTC, Nugegoda, Borella, K-Zone, KCC, Welipenna Service Area, and Galle.
Royal Cashews has also introduced an online cashew delivery system where cashews could be delivered free of charge to any point in Sri Lanka. Through that, cashew products in 19 varied flavours could be purchased in 682 varied packagings and gift packs at special discounted prices. In 1999, Royal Cashews was launched with the objective of taking Sri Lankan cashews to the international level. At present, Royal Cashews has become a group of companies in partnership with Royal Food Marketing (Pvt) Ltd, Trust Lanka Suppliers (Pvt) Ltd. and Green Way Asia Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. All three companies purchase the harvests of cashew cultivator, turn them into value-added products in their factory, and supply to the local and global markets.
CAPTION: Left to Right: Ruwan Lahiru Danthanarayana – DGM – Royal Cashews Group, Dr. Ruwan Wathugala – MD – Royal Cashews Group, J. M. Thilaka Jayasundara – Secretary – Ministry of Industries, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana – Minister of Health and Industries, Dr. Saranga Alahapperuma – Chairman – IDB.


text:
If the freeport initiative can be fully realised, this could lead to significant gains for the UK as some of the GENN nodes emerge in its jurisdiction.
The idea was developed by the current Chancellor Rishi Sunak while he was a back bench MP and was quickly embraced by the current Trade Secretary, Liz Truss. The vision is to create a number of free ports that would be more than just Free Trade Zones, but would include elements of Special Economic Zones and Enhanced Economic Zones. They would include regulatory frameworks that could be pro-competitive and generate economic growth. Done right, they could become engines of economic growth connected in to GENN and carrying trade superhighways.
Former Director of the World Customs Organisation, Lars Karlsson, Frank Dunsmuir, head of international trade at Fujitsu, and Daniel Gottschald, head of Technical University Munich’s international venture arm, and I have written a detailed response to the UK government’s free port consultation which we attach here. Our response, and the freeport initiative shows that even well established countries that are in the G7 can demonstrate policy innovations which can be quite dramatic in conception and design.
In our response, we highlight the potential economic value of the programme.
The UK’s freeports initiative is potentially a powerful tool in the revitalisation of the UK and global economy, post Covid-19. There will be renewed emphasis on ensuring the resilience of global supply chains, and the increasingly important role that global nodes will play in trade superhighways, as we will seek more and better information about supply chains. In addition, it is likely that regional supply chains will rise in importance as political pressures drive more onshoring. In both of these scenarios, freeports have an important role to play.
But freeports cannot be looked at in isolation. The UK will need to operate in four dimensions after the crisis. First, it must play a role in promoting better co-ordination and consistency between global institutions. Special Economic Zones could play an important role and need to be supported by the WTO, IMF, World Bank and World Customs Organisation as legitimate tools for economic growth. Second, the UK must promote international co-operation via maintenance of a liberal and open economic order. There will be increased pressure for autarkic and protectionist policy responses post Covid-19. Since the US is increasingly embracing such measures, the countries that promote such open policies grows thin. The UK will have to step up and maintaining open and competitive policies at home, including freeports, is an important way of achieving this. Third, national level economic reform and the adoption of a pro-competitive regulatory reform set of policies will be important. Fourth, subnational policies such as freeports, Free Trade Zones and special economic zones are critical to ensuring the delivery of national level reforms, as these can be tested in zones (especially where the zones can operate in different ways in a decentralised and more localised system). Freeports in this context can also contribute to all of these dimensions of needed policymaking. They can act as nodes on global trade superhighways in some cases and in others they can be more regional nodes as inevitably some supply chains shorten and become more regional. Major trade superhighways are likely to require more focus in order to maintain resiliency, including greater use of technology to ensure visibility into supply chains where such global nodes become ever more important.
It is to be hoped that as we emerge from economic ravages of Covid-19 and our responses to it, the UK freeport initiative can drive economic growth.


text:
WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2017 – For all the talk of Mexico ditching U.S. corn, soybeans and rice, there hasn’t yet been a major shift despite the faltering efforts to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement.
It’s become increasingly clear that Mexican importers are looking to South America and elsewhere for supply options if efforts to rewrite NAFTA fail and the U.S. abandons the current trade pact, but U.S.-Mexican trade remains robust.
“We have seen crushers in Mexico make purchases from South American buyers, but it’s not accurate to say that those purchases are because of fallout from NAFTA negotiations,” said Patrick Delaney, a spokesman for the American Soybean Association. “It’s still accurate to say that our primary concern is not current lost sales … but rather the potential for broad-based market share loss if we pull out of NAFTA.”
If the ongoing renegotiation talks are scrapped and the U.S. withdraws from the 23-year-old trade pact, pre-NAFTA tariffs are expected to snap back in place and push up the cost of buying U.S. farm commodities. If that happens, countries like Brazil and Argentina become much more attractive to Mexican importers.
Mexico has been buying corn from Brazil this year, but not much more than normal, U.S. Grains Council President Tom Sleight told Agri-Pulse. Those purchases from South American vendors have sparked concern because of NAFTA’s precarious situation, but shipping manifests for Mexico’s imports show the vast majority of deliveries are still from “Estados Unidos de America.”
A September snapshot of Mexico’s corn imports shows three deliveries of corn from Brazil and one from Argentina that total about 142,000 metric tons, according to data provided by USGC. In contrast, there were 12 shipments from the U.S., delivering 1.5 million tons.
“Mexico is the number-one market for corn this year,” Sleight said. “The final figures were just released and Mexico came into the number-one spot again for the full marketing year for corn.”
Mexican feed companies and other grain and soybean importers want to keep buying from U.S. suppliers, but it is getting harder and harder not to increase purchases from South America as Mexico’s relationship with the U.S. frays and uncertainty increases over the future of NAFTA, said Bosco de la Vega, president of Mexico’s largest farm organization.
Mexican government officials are pushing for “diversification” when it comes to sourcing grain imports, de la Vega said in a recent meeting with U.S. reporters, but so far there has been resistance.
“The position of the Mexican private sector is to wait and see what happens in NAFTA and then afterwards start looking for alternatives … if the U.S. pulls out,” he said.
But the threat of the U.S. pulling out seems to be growing. President Donald Trump has threatened to end the talks with Mexico and Canada several times, and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told reporters last week that the talks were not going well.
“The threat of Mexico turning to other suppliers is higher than it was a year ago because of the uncertainty that surrounds our relationship under NAFTA,” USGC spokeswoman Melissa George Kessler said. “The next few months will be telling, and we are watching the negotiations and our customers’ approaches closely.”
U.S. corn and soybean farmers aren’t the only ones concerned. Mexico is the largest market for U.S. rice, but the Mexican government has made recent moves to test the waters for shifting purchases to Vietnam, an international powerhouse for rice exports, and other countries like Thailand.
On March 1, Mexico opened up a 150,000-metric-ton tariff rate quota for rice imports from countries with which Mexico has no free trade agreement. Under that TRQ, Vietnam and Thailand would not have to pay the 20 percent tariff that normally keeps them out of the Mexican market.
“They’re lining up their alternative sources, but they’re not using them yet,” said a spokesman for the USA Rice Federation.
Maintaining foreign markets for U.S. farmers amid growing global competition is a priority for groups like the USGC, ASA and the Rice Federation, but the Trump administration continues to assert that reducing overall trade deficits – like the one with Mexico – is its primary objective.
“NAFTA has resulted in a huge trade deficit for the United States and has cost us tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs,” Lighthizer said last week after the conclusion of the fourth round of talks in Arlington, Virginia. “The agreement has become very lopsided and needs to be rebalanced. We of course have a $500 billion trade deficit. So for us, trade deficits do matter. And we intend to reduce them.”
The majority of that deficit is generated by automobile imports from Mexico. Trump and Lighthizer have both expressed frustration over U.S. companies moving plants south of the border and shipping the finished products to the U.S.
“As difficult as this has been, we have seen no indication that our partners are willing to make any changes that will result in a rebalancing and a reduction in these huge trade deficits,” Lighthizer said of Mexico and Canada.
And if that trade relationship cannot be rebalanced, Lighthizer told reporters, he will be OK with a dissolution of the trade pact.
“If we end up not having a trade agreement, my guess is all three countries will do just fine,” he said.
The U.S. ag sector, which sold about $18 billion worth of farm commodities to Mexico last year, would likely disagree.
“Mexico and the U.S. feed-grain interests have been partners in progress since 1981,” Sleight said. “Our biggest goal is to get back to business as usual with our partners in the livestock industry in Mexico.”
For more news, go to www.Agri-Pulse.com.


text:
Textiles And Apparel Will Play Key Role In Haiti Recovery
James A. Morrissey, Washington Correspondent
As the massive relief efforts in Haiti move forward, U.S. textile and apparel manufacturers and
retailers will be playing a major role in that nation's immediate and long-range recovery.
Prior to the devastating January 12th earthquake, apparel manufacturing was one of Haiti's most important industries, employing some 25,000 workers and accounting for more than three-quarters of the nation's export earnings, with 82 percent of the exports going to the United States. The National Retail Federation (NRF) estimates that as a result of the earthquake, Haiti's apparel industry is operating at only 50 percent, and it expects it will take several weeks for repairs and water and electricity to be restored and pave the way for a gradual restoration of production. As an example of the extent of the problem, NRF said a T-shirt plant that employed 500 workers was destroyed and all of its workers were killed.
In an effort to support the relief effort and long-term assistance, the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) has created a Haiti-AAFA Recovery and Reconstruction Team (HARRT) to assess recovery needs and help with reconstruction planning. AAFA says the mission of HARRT is to ensure the apparel and footwear industries "play a responsible and proactive role in Haiti's overall recovery." The recovery task force will assist the Haitian apparel and footwear industry in addressing infrastructure problems, factory capacity levels, workforce training and sourcing patterns.
HARRT Steering Committee Co-chairman Rick Helfenbein, president of Englewood Cliffs, N.J.-based TellaS Ltd., a division of Hong Kong-based Luen Thai, said the U.S. apparel industry has a long partnership with Haiti and is "ready to be a cornerstone of Haiti reconstruction." HAART Steering Committee Co-chairman Jerry Cook, senior vice president of government and trade for Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Hanesbrands Inc., said: "We must do everything we can to help rebuild this industry that has positively contributed to Haiti's economy. We have our work cut out for us as we get started making sure growth is sustainable and continues into the future."
Since 2006, apparel trade with Haiti has been governed by the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act (HOPE), which created special trade rules giving preferential treatment to U.S. imports of Haitian apparel, provided the exports met specific rules of origin that placed emphasis on yarn and fabric inputs from the United States and Caribbean nations. In 2008, HOPE II was enacted, extending the HOPE Act for 10 years and broadening coverage to include more apparel, particularly knit products. Essentially, HOPE II gives duty-free treatment to apparel using U.S. yarn and fabric, but for every three garments using U.S. inputs, one garment may be made from non-U.S. yarn and fabric. U.S. textile and apparel manufacturers have supported HOPE II.
On February 2, Sens. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Bill Nelson, D-Fla., introduced the Renewing Hope for Haiti Act, which extends the expiration dates for two trade preference acts benefiting Haiti and calls for other measures to facilitate trade. It would extend the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act that allows Haiti and other participating countries to export qualified apparel duty-free into the United States through Sept. 18, 2013 rather than letting it expire this October, as is currently scheduled. The deadline for expiration of HOPE II would be extended through 2022 rather than 2018. In addition, the Wyden-Nelson bill would require U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to establish a presence in Haiti in order to offer commercial assistance and help facilitate trade among Haiti, the neighboring Dominican Republic and the United States. The measure would establish a Haiti Recovery and Investment Task Force led by the Secretary of the Treasury that would identify and help remove barriers to trade.
In introducing the measure, Wyden said: "The millions of dollars flowing into Haiti now are essential to addressing the immediate crisis, but Haiti's long-term survival depends on immediate steps being taken to protect its economic future. By renewing pro-Haitian provisions in U.S. trade law, streamlining Customs processes and opening up avenues for foreign investment, the U.S. can have a significant impact on this fragile economy and restore a much-needed sense of normalcy."
NRF, AAFA and the National Council of Textile Organizations all support the Wyden- Nelson bill. Rep. Charles B. Rangel, D-N.Y., chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, has been a long-time supporter of preferential trade and aid for Haiti, so the Wyden-Nelson bill could receive swift action.
Commenting on the overall Haiti recovery situation, Eric Autor, NRF's vice-president and international trade counsel, said: "Haiti is a growing source of apparel for U.S. retailers, and at the same time U.S. stores are a market that has played a major role in building up the Haitian economy. It is more important than ever that this two-way relationship be continued and expanded. The legislation will put Haitians back to work at a crucial time, and will help provide long-term markets for their products that will help build the foundation for economic prosperity and political stability.
February 9, 2010


text:
Next year, all mainstream Windows 10 computers will be able to run augmented and virtual reality applications built for the Windows Holographic platform, Intel CEO Brian Krzanich announced at the Intel Developer Forum earlier this month.
Windows Holographic was originally developed for the HoloLens, Microsoft’s augmented reality headset.
Watch demo video below:
- Top 10 VR headsets to spice up your Thanksgiving - November 25, 2021
- Educator compares virtual worlds for education, prefers OpenSim - November 18, 2021
- Despite outages, OpenSim land and actives users up sharply this month - November 16, 2021


text:
Gilas Pilipinas is getting new kits for the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Sportwear giants Nike and Jordan Brand unveiled the new uniforms Thursday, with Team USA and World Cup host China getting special uniforms that have an 80-20 split in color blocking plus their own special team crest logos.
As part of the unveil, the Philippines got its new jersey which should be debuting in the World Cup starting in late August and will run through mid September.
Gilas’ blue jersey was featured in the release by Nike and it boasts white “PILIPINAS” text with white trims.
The Philippine flag is placed on the neck tape.
Nike made uniforms for Team USA, China, the Philippines, Angola, Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Japan, South Korea, Lithuania, Puerto Rico, Senegal, Spain, and Tunisia. Jordan Brand was in charge for the jerseys of Argentina and France.
This story was originally published on the ABS-CBN Sports website.


text:
Plymouth’s latest Starbucks drive-through will open next month bringing the number of outlets in the city to four. The American coffee leviathan has almost completed construction of its unit close to the Range superstore in Derriford.
It will open on Saturday, February 4, and serve customers every day from 6am to 10pm. Starbucks has created 30 jobs at the new outlet.
It will start trading just a year after Starbucks opened a drive-through at Coypool Retail Park. The Seattle-headquartered chain also has coffee shops at Drake Circus Shopping Centre, in Mutley Plain, and inside the Cineworld cinema at the Barcode.
Planning documents revealed the new single-storey drive-through, in William Prance Road, is composed of mixed glazing, cladding, and dark brick. Plans, approved in 2021, show about 50 seats inside and 24 outside.
A Starbucks spokesperson told PlymouthLive: “We can confirm the Starbucks store at William Prance Road will open on Saturday, February 4, creating 30 jobs for the local community. Opening hours will be 6am until 10pm, Monday-Sunday.”
Andrea Johnson, a former Tory councillor for Compton who this month lost to Labour’s Will Noble in the Moor View by-election, said the new outlet would be a boost for the area. She said it would complement plans for a multi-million-pound district shopping centre at the former Seaton Barracks Parade Ground.
Marks and Spencer, Aldi and Starbucks’ rival Costa Coffee are already earmarked to move into that development. Further retailers and a gym operator are yet to be confirmed.
Ms Johnson said: “I welcome Starbucks’ arrival in the North of the city. Choosing to locate a new drive-through at Seaton Business Park brings jobs for local residents, and attracts further inward investment to our great city.”
“The arrival of big brands such as Marks and Spencer and Aldi further complements the existing offer adjacent to the Range. It provides residents with more choice in where to shop or socialise. As a local resident, I’m looking forward to this new retail park on my doorstep.”
In January 2023, Plymouth gained its latest Costa Coffee outlet when Starbucks’ rival opened at Plymouth Golf Centre. The 40-seater in Haye Road, Elburton, created nine jobs and joined about 17 other Costa coffee shops, drive-throughs or expresses in the city.
In 2022, Canadian coffee and doughnut chain Tim Hortons created 50 jobs when it opened a drive-through at Crownhill Retail Park, just across the A386 from the new Starbucks. The Ontario-headquartered fast food business started trading from the former Pizza Hut outlet opposite B&Q.


text:
LEDGIT - Of Legacy Heritage & Provenance Blockchain
Cryptocurrency, Blockchain and the likes have been introduced to our generation, and with it, there is an infinite amount of possibilities. With the advent of these new technologies, I learnt a little bit here and there, more so at the grand launch of Ledgit.com last week. Ledgit is a Malaysian based company that has developed a means of utilising blockchain technology in our day-to-day living. Yes, it’s no longer that complicated anymore! Read on.
|LEDGIT - Of Legacy Heritage & Provenance Blockchain|
What is Blockchain & how does Ledgit utilise this technology?
Just a short info on blockchain technology to bring us up to speed. Did you know that the term blockchain comes from the means to digitise, decentralise, providing a public ledger of all cryptocurrency transactions. Interesting right? In a nutshell, this allows virtually any trading participants to transact safely, secure in the digital space without the need to have a central place to keep records.
|Grand launch of Ledgit.com|
I was interested in how Ledgit uses Blockchain tech to incorporate into their services and products. IN fact, during the grand launch of their company in D6 Offices Sentul last week on 7th July 2018, Mr Ivan Ku, CEO of Ledgit helped us to understand better on his business structure.
|Mr Ivan Ku, CEO of Ledgit|
|Provenance Blockchain, one part of what Ledgit offers|
Ledgit brings with it new offerings, developing a smart application platform integrated with the blockchain of provenance to enable the tracking and tracing of the origins of goods and products. On top of that, their second line of products enable the recording of the history of family linages to enable the legitimacy and legacy to be established throughout generations to come.
|Guests and investors at the grand launch|
|Mr Ivan Ku, CEO of Ledgit during our interview session|
Mr Ivan Ku explained to us in layman terms, which made everything easier to digest, considering all these were pretty new to me. He divided his business into two parts: Legacy Heritage & Provenance Blockchain.
In the Provenance Blockchain portion, it will allow suppliers, retailers, distributors and consumers to make their products and provenence not only more transparent, but much easier to trace and trustworthy with the integration between the blockchain technology ‘Smart Contract’ and a ‘Smart Application Platform’ (SAP). Traceability, that’s the keyword here.
I’m very much interested in the Legacy Heritage portion that Ledgit offers. Ledgit constitutes a more transparent provenance of knowledge and insights regarding the origins of their lineage and heritage. These are to be recorded and passed on throughout generations after generations by integrating the blockchain technology and a ‘Smart Application Platform’ (SAP).
Imagine being able to record a video of your grandmother, talking to your future 30 year old grandson. How’s that? The data will be preserved in a very secured way, stored without the risk of it being destroyed. Good stuff here.
|A shot with Mr Ivan Ku during the grand launch event|
|One for the album|
Unlike conventional method of data storage and authentication, Ledgit utilised blockchain that allows for a really secured system, making it almost impossible to be compromised. Blockchain tech is currently the most secure way to store data in the world, that’s what I understood.
|Scan and stay connected, for updates and rewards!|
Don’t forget to download the free Ledgit mobile application from Google Playstore (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Ledgit.Ledgit) . Check out more information on them at their official website (www.ledgit.com) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LEDGITapps/).
IN fact Ledgit is on Telegram as well, scan the barcode here (https://t.me/joinchat/JO43BkjwWXFVzJnRXY49Ag)