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We talked with two people who were out of work in March 2020 about how the pandemic has affected their private economies. © 2022 Guardian News & Media Limited or its affiliated firms. Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, where we answer your real-world cash questions. Amid a new spike in COVID-19 instances within the area attributed to the extremely contagious omicron variant, residents are required to remain at house, with one member of the family permitted to enterprise out to buy food and different requirements each two days.
The WIRED conversation illuminates how expertise is altering each facet of our lives—from culture to business, science to design. The breakthroughs and improvements that we uncover result in new methods of thinking, new connections, and new industries. How to Move Your Shop or Business OnlineThe pandemic prompted entrepreneurs to move their brick-and-mortars into the digital sphere. But individuals charged with crimes are hardly ever told an algorithm came into play. Connect with verified firms on a safe private community to find new shoppers, elevate money and discover reliable options for any business precedence. To stay on high of all the news impacting your small business, go here for all of our newest small business news and updates.
Policy And Telecoms
Pop-up stores create alternatives for corporations to attach with consumers, and expertise — like QR codes that allow consumers pay by way of their smartphones — facilitates these connections. Brands can reach their customers directly in a data-rich, direct-sales setting that can eliminate the want to go through conventional retail channels. Read extra about how companies can broaden their presence and combine their e-commerce capabilities with momentary physical mini-stores or showrooms right here. Consumers have shown during the pandemic that they’re quick to adopt tech that will make their lives easier. Big retailers like Walmart are investing in and partnering with tech startups to explore drone product deliveries to “store-hailing” platforms to keep step with consumers’ altering calls for. Now, most of the tech options being pioneered by main retailers will finally be provided to smaller companies by third-party, native suppliers.
The 2022 tax submitting season formally began on January 24, and the IRS has outlined some necessary dates and deadlines for business filers. Businesses and particular person taxpayers can begin filing returns by way of IRS Free File companions instantly. For S corps and partnerships, the deadline to file is March 15, whereas most companies and taxpayers have until Monday, April 18. Should you want an extension, April 18 is the final day to request one, and if approved, your new due date could be October 17, 2022. Consumer attitudes and expectations are shifting — changing the playbook for how corporations should put together to drive business this 12 months. Read extra on the tendencies forecasters say are crucial to rising business this yr right here.
Ukraine: Meta Bans Russian Media From Working Adverts Amid Censorship Row
Skills leaders need right now from the professor who wrote the book on leadership. From checking in frequently to organising a buddy system, you can assist strengthen the ties between your workers, which may provide long-term business benefits. Reducing vulnerabilities and shoring up your crisis-response group is simply your first line of defense. Former White House info officer Theresa Payton has extra thoughts.
Dr. Hillel Newman, the Israeli Consul General in Los Angeles, referred to as Arizona “a particular friend of Israel,” in remarks he delivered at an event hosted by the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations last Friday… At ABC Alabama , we are dedicated to putting the most effective talent on the development area. Achieving an inclusive, culturally diverse, and competent workforce that’s welcoming to all people—where workers are restricted solely by their own potential, work ethic and need to succeed. To get a take a look at how improvement agency Intent tailors its method to consumer wants, we spoke with Wojciech Borkowski, head of business growth, and CTO Peter Tuszynski. Hello pals and welcome to Daily Crunch, bringing you the most important startup, tech and venture capital news in a single package deal.


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Sears names new key executives
As part of an ongoing restructuring effort, Sears Holdings has named two new key executives of divisions within its home improvement business.
John Froman, formerly CEO of Namco, a regional chain of large-sized family recreation specialty stores, will serve as head of Sears’ tools and lawn and garden divisions. Prior to his time at Namco, Froman served 19 years at Circuit City Stores, most recently as executive vp and chief operating officer.
“John’s wealth of retail experience and demonstrated success in retail operations, merchandising and strategic planning will help us operate the tools and lawn and garden businesses more efficiently and effectively,” said Bruce Johnson, interim CEO and president of Sears Holdings.
Sears also announced the promotion of Douglas Moore to the position of senior vp and president, appliances. Moore was hired as senior vp-hardlines merchandising at Sears Holdings in June 2007. He spent 17 years at Circuit City Stores, most recently as executive vp and chief merchandising officer. He also served in senior leadership positions within sales, operations and installation at Circuit City.
The new appointments are part of a bid, announced Jan. 24, to reorganize Sears Holdings into separate and more autonomous business units, following weak sales performances and lagging earnings.
Boise Cascade secures additional financing
Boise Cascade, one of the largest distributors of engineered wood products and building materials in the U.S., has secured a $350 million asset-based loan that will be used for working capital and to refinance existing debt. Banc of America Securities provided Boise Cascade with the credit facility, which includes a $150 million accordion feature, according to the announcement.
Boise Cascade treasurer Wayne Rancourt said the loan should “help us grow our distribution and engineered wood products business by increasing our position in existing markets, entering new geographic markets and expanding our product line.”
Headquartered in Boise, Idaho, Boise Cascade manufactures engineered wood products, plywood, lumber, and particleboard and distributes a broad line of building materials through 30 wholesale locations throughout the United States. Sales for fiscal 2007 were $5.4 billion.
Williams-Sonoma earnings, sales rise in Q4
Williams-Sonoma Inc., parent of high-end retailers Pottery Barn and Williams-Sonoma Home, reported earnings for the fourth quarter rose 3 percent to $124.6 million from $121.1 million in the same period last year, a gain spurred in part by an extra week in the 14-week quarter. Sales were up 9 percent to $1.37 billion from $1.25 billion.
Howard Lester, chairman and CEO of Williams-Sonoma, said the fourth-quarter results represented the higher end of company estimates for that period.
“While the post-holiday macro environment continued to soften, we remained focused on the things we could control,” he said. “We are pleased with these results.”
Overall, the company’s outlet stores saw a 4.4 percent gain in same-store sales, the largest same-store gain overall. Pottery Barn stores were down 1.5 percent in same-store sales, while Pottery Barn Kids stores fell 2.4 percent in same-store sales. Same-store sales rose 1.1 percent at kitchen decor retailer Williams-Sonoma.
For the year, earnings fell 6 percent to $195.8 million from $208.9 million. Year-over-year, sales were up 6 percent to $3.94 billion from $3.73 billion.
The company still expects the next year to be challenging, with Lester commenting it is expected to be “one of the most challenging macro-economic environments we have seen in many years.”
“Accordingly, we are approaching 2008 with a high level of caution and a view to preserve flexibility in our business plans,” he said.
In the 2008, Williams-Sonoma plans to add 29 new stores – 12 in the West Elm division – and expand or remodel an additional 20 stores. The San Francisco-based company operates about 600 stores, seven mail order catalogs and six e-commerce Web sites throughout the United States.

domain: news


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Wherein I scan the Tuesday morning headlines so you don't have to.
From Advertising Age:
--Looks like we won't see any obnoxious ads with huge bows on cars this year. Silver lining to economic crisis!
--In case you hadn't heard, GM decided it wasn't worth paying Tiger Woods all that endorsement money.
--"Redemption" doesn't totally redeem Sunday night.
--At least GM is no. 1 in something: it's got the lead spot on the Parents Television Council list of worst advertisers.
--3 Minute Ad Age: Macy's Christmas windows still draw a crowd, but, c'mon, they're free.
--IDC is up with social media traffic; down with its ad revenue.
--BBDO wins Starbucks, thus advertisiing new caffeine infusion device.
--Mediacom makes some senior appointments.
--Ad of the Day: xBox 360 from T.A.G. and starring Burt Reynolds. It's below.
--Adidas to launch commercial for Adidas Originals starring David Beckham, DMC, Method Man. T'ain't on YouTube yet so I can't stream it for you.
--Buy a Subaru, have the company send a charity a $250 donation. Awwww.
--83 percent of retailers doing a holiday price promotion.
--The talking tub is back for Parkay margarine.
--Times Square goes down the toilet with Charmin.
--Apple sues a wiki. Not that wiki.
--We're watching even more TV.
--American Association of Hispanic Agencies is not pleased with Arbitron.
--Time Inc.-ers! You have one week left to take that buyout offer.
--Is anyone watching new shows from Sony's Crackle.com?
--USA Today looking for 20 volunteers to walk the plank.
From The New York Times:
--Will Sumner Redstone sell off his movie theaters?
--Fox gets rid of Saturday morning cartoons.
--Advertisers starting to give away cold, hard cash.
From The Wall Street Journal:
--First Bailey's campaign from JWT. Subscription required, but a stream of the ad is below.
That's it. The Thanksgiving news slowdown is upon us.


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Hey Storage Spaces Direct fans, I have now had 3 separate customer cases where their Storage Spaces Direct hardware has been severely delayed due to shortages of Flash Memory. This is because the world is moving away from traditional storage “Spinning Rust’ and moving to Flash. This is apparent in almost every Hyper Converged design that I have done over the past 24 months. 100 % of them are all Flash and that isn’t changing anytime soon.
Here is where the rubber is coming off the road for your projects… Lead times are at least 6-10 weeks from most of the big Manufacturers like Dell, HP, etc. I will reference a quote from a customer email that I received earlier this week on a pending order from Dell:
Sorry but the 4 S2D servers won’t be shipping soon. We have to use very specific SSD’s that are on the Microsoft-Dell S2D hardware compatibility list. Combined with the global SSD shortage, please don’t expect these servers for at least another 4-6 weeks at the earliest.
We have expedited the order & are tracking updates daily.
Similar delays are happening across my customer base with all Server orders à I have an HP Order that is going on 8 weeks waiting for drives right now.
So, what could be causing all of these shortages???
In a report from the blog: https://9to5mac.com/2017/06/21/iphone-8-ram-flash-storage-chips/
Component orders for the iPhone 8 are creating a worldwide shortage of DRAM and NAND chips, with competitors struggling to secure their own supplies, says a report.
Some competitors are placing orders well before they need the chips, others are paying premiums to ensure a supply and – in the worst of cases – may even be forced to reduce the specs of their phones if they are unable to buy the chips they need …
Reuters reports that even large companies like LG are being forced to act.
‘After the supply shortages emerged we brought forward our procurement decisions … to ensure a stable supply, smartphone and personal computer maker LG said in a statement, adding it had pushed up quarterly purchase decisions by about a month.
Smaller suppliers may be forced to cut back on both RAM and flash storage.
Some analysts say device makers could be forced to cut down on the amount of DRAM chips, which help devices perform multiple tasks at once, or NAND chips that are used for long-term data storage, on new products if the cannot get enough chips.
Huawei has already used less advanced chips in its flagship P10 model, while component shortages are said to be limiting production of Nintendo’s Switch.
Camera sensors are another component in high demand, with Sony reportedly prioritizing orders from Apple and three other major brands.
An unnamed chip supplier said that the iPhone was in large part responsible for the flash storage shortage.
The problem will be more acute for the NAND market, where the iPhone remains a critical source of demand given the huge sales volumes and recent moves to increase storage capacity on the device.
Analysts estimate that Apple buys up around 18% of the world supply of NAND chips, and that this percentage could increase significantly if the iPhone 8 is a success. Some analysts predict that iPhone 8 sales could hit 100M units this year.
While suppliers are working hard to bring additional capacity online, the long lead times means that demand is expected to continue to exceed supply until some time in 2018.
I don’t expect this shortage to end anytime soon à So you had best be giving yourselves a LOT of lead time for any of your All-Flash Hardware for your Data Center. I wonder what the lead times actually look like for Azure Stack right now?
If the IPhone 8 takes off could it be conceivable that Apple will gobble up to 25 % of the worlds supply of NAND? Well, considering they are already at 18 % moving to 25 % doesn’t seem like that much of a stretch.
Thanks and happy learning,


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SMS second to Web in charitable donations: Study
According to a new study conducted by Luth Research for the Mobile Marketing Association, of the 33 percent of U.S. mobile phone owners who donated to Haitian relief efforts, one-third used a PC and Web site and 22 percent used SMS. In other words, one out of five mobile phone donors donated to Haiti relief efforts using SMS.
“As consumers continually develop use of the mobile channel, including the mobile Internet, we’ll see more of an uptake in mobile donations,” said Michael Becker, North America managing director for the MMA.
“We will also see increased use in stimulating conversations, volunteerism and enabling other activities that support charities as much, or if not more, than financial donations,” he said.
“Mobility can be the centerpiece that ties charities together with brands’ media strategies because mobile is effectively the glue that connects and combines interactivity.”
This research of mobile marketing behavior and opinions was highlighted in the latest Mobile Consumer Briefing, which is a monthly survey of adult consumers nationwide.
Luth surveyed a demographically representative sample of more than 1,000 adult consumers for this effort.
Per the findings, 23 percent of the respondents claimed they were very likely or somewhat likely to donate via SMS in the future.
In another finding, African Americans and Hispanics were found to be the largest demographic groups using SMS for donations.
Also, men contributed via SMS at nearly twice the rate of women.
As reported in this publication, consumers donated more than $35 million via text toward Haiti relief efforts. Of course, all the designated charities followed SMS best practice.
“All mobile marketing programs must be pre-approved, pre-opted programs to meet the highest available standards,” said Peter A. Johnson, vice president of market intelligence at the MMA, New York.
“The more [consumers] see their favorite charities are doing this, the more they will use SMS as a means of donating,” he said.
Mobile marketers can ensure safe mobile giving transactions through the current approved practices set by the Mobile Giving Foundation in partnership with wireless carriers.
“We encourage everyone to pay attention to the standards coming out of the MMA, in association with the Mobile Giving Foundation, mGive and other related players in the mobile marketing ecosystem who are setting the standards and best practices for mobile giving,” Mr. Becker said.


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MasterCard teams pair up with small local businesses and the Taproot Foundation at the fourth annual Pro Bono Challenge.
The latest jobs data is in and shows good news throughout the Hudson Valley—with huge gains in two specific areas.
Guest writer Nuno Teles, the chief marketing officer of White Plains-based Heineken USA, explains the steps involved in a successful marketing push.
In the crowded and popular phone case market, a local entrepreneur is making waves with her “eyn” case.
Two Scarsdale teenagers find success as entrepreneurs by teaching other teens how to jump into the business world.
Five 20-somethings tap a new delivery market in Westchester.
Edgemont resident Laura Preskin launches Yaffa, a new line of luxury tennis and golf activewear.
Plus, MSKCC gets a prestigious certification, a local music store gets a global award, and more awards and recognition being giving around Westchester.
After seeing the harmful effects of her children’s typical treats, Lisa Goldbaum created a healthy, tasty snack line—and it’s gone nationwide.


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The Metallica machine keeps rolling. Last week, we learned The Black Album returned to the Billboard charts at #200, pushing over 6,000 units that week, which accounts for purchases and streaming. In pure sales, the album sold 2,235 copies last week. It's monster numbers like that that led to Metallica being the #2 top selling artist in 2019.
The only artist to top Metallica in pure sales was Queen, helped by their blockbuster film, Bohemian Rhapsody. Metallica made an estimated $3.6M from album sales in 2019, which beat out the sales of Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney and BTS, among others.
Tool also made the top sales list, likely due to not only the release of Fear Inoculum, but having their entire back catalog available digitally for the first time. The band earned $1.5 million in sales alone.
Here are the top 10:
You can see the whole list at Billboard.


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Orlando, Florida: Walt Disney postponed test sailing on its first cruise after many crew members initially showed positive COVID-19 test results, but was later judged negative.
The vessel was scheduled for a two-night voyage departing on Tuesday as part of Disney’s plan to receive a conditional voyage certificate from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“We are postponing the simulation cruise due to the small number of inconsistent COVID-19 test results that are considered positive by the CDC,” the statement said. “The rigorous health and safety protocols we implement helped identify the situation, but the test results were ultimately negative.”
Disney Cruise Line has not disclosed when to start regular scheduled cruises.
Last weekend, the Royal Caribbean Group’s Celebrity Edge became the first ship to depart the United States from a major operator.
However, Royal Caribbean said two unvaccinated teenagers tested positive on the Adventure of the Sea vessel. The company said 92% of its guests were fully vaccinated.
Disney Cruise may change its test sailing schedule by July 18 after a federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction to the CDC to enforce a ban on cruises in Florida.
Disney postpones test cruise after crew positive Covid test
Source link Disney postpones test cruise after crew positive Covid test


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The 2017 model year isn’t yet coming officially, but the rumor on 2018 Toyota Highlander seems to be unable to wait. With the 2017 model get the makeover, it is estimated that the new 2018 Highlander will get only mild tweaks here and there. The complete details aren’t official yet, but it offers good speculation on the next-generation model.
Cash-strapped rally enthusiasts are always happy when there is a new Subaru Impreza, and with the 2017 modelyear they are even happier because they get a lot more car for just $18,395. That is the base price of the new model and it’s only a hundred bucks more than the previous model.
Volkswagen Tiguan R Spied for First Time — A prototype has been spotted in Nurburgring recently, and it is speculated to be the new Volkswagen Tiguan R variant. This is so interesting since the model is officially confirmed to come to auto market.
2018 Land Rover Discovery Complete Specs Revealed. Ahead of its appearance on 2016 Paris Motor Show event, the new 2018 Land Rover Discovery specs have been revealed. The SUV receives new change in its design, and it is reported to offer the most excellent features and capability.
Earlier this year at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, British tuner of Range Rover cars came up with two really special models that are now currently on sale. Overfinch Range Rover London and Manhattan have pretty self-explanatory names and they are some of the world’s most luxurious SUVs.
The ongoing Fusion has been around since 2012 and it received a large update with the 2016 version. This added a new trim level, a new engine as well as a lot of new equipment while looking a lot cleaner than before. However, being quite old at this point, a new model will be released sooner than many people expected. It seems that the 2018 Ford Fusion is going to be the redesign of one of Ford’s best selling cars in the World.
To be brutally honest, this review is almost certainly going to need an overhaul in the next few months, and as such will be irrelevant to new car buyers. Why, you may ask? Because we’re getting an updated Buick Encore before the year is out, with lots of hopefully lovely tweaks that make this car an even more attractive ownership proposition.


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“Google Inc.’s music service will now include free Web-radio stations, seeking to lure users days before Apple Inc. debuts its streaming feature,” Brian Womack reports for Bloomberg.
“Google Play Music, a streaming and storage service, will roll out ad-supported radio, beginning in the U.S., said Zahavah Levine, vice president of partnerships, Google Play,” Womack reports. “The new feature will provide stations based on songs that users like — or from Google’s Songza, which curates songs based on factors such as moods, activities and favorite decades.”
“The Mountain View, California-based company is stepping up investments in music as it prepares for digital-song pioneer Apple to push its monthly song service to hundreds of millions of iTunes users on June 30,” Womack reports. “Already, Apple offers online radio – – and is rolling out a 24-hour station ‘dedicated entirely to music and music culture’ that will be broadcast to more than 100 countries.”
Read more in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: This warmed over iTunes Radio won’t move the needle for Google.
In less than a week, Apple’s iTunes Radio becomes Apple Music Radio (build your own stations or choose from a wide range of genres; members can skip as many tracks as they like) and adds the live 24-hour worldwide radio station featuring Zane Lowe, Ebro Darden, and Julie Adenuga.


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Callcredit and miiCard announce a strategic relationship to provide the UK's first true consumer focused identity verification service, combining robust credit bureau verification checks and strong impersonation protection which will change the way financial products are sold on-line.
The need to validate and verify identity without causing unnecessary intrusion on genuine customers is becoming ever more vital in the way we conduct business. Combining the need to meet regulatory requirements, reduce operational costs and stop fraud whilst providing a good customer experience is key to the success of many businesses trading on-line.
The combined capability of Callcredit's award winning data based electronic verification solutions combined with miiCard's anti impersonation technology will provide an unrivalled level of protection and convenience for consumers and companies wanting to do business with each other.
Blending the identity validation and authentication services of miiCard with the consumer data and identity verification services of Callcredit will create a new kind of online identity service that not only provides convenience for the consumer but cost savings, fraud protection and increased conversions for the industry.
James Varga, Chief Executive of miiCard commented "In a digital economy where there is an 70% to 90% drop out rate when selling financial products on-line as soon as the process goes offline, removing the drivers licence, passport and utility bill checks is critical. Creating this level of trust online will not only change the face of financial services but anywhere you need to know who you're dealing with."
Graham Lund, Managing Director of Callcredit commented "Callcredit is already a recognised leader in provision of identity verification and fraud prevention solutions. We have been working closely with miiCard to solve the problem of paperless straight through processing without compromising compliance with regulations, fraud rates and customer journey. The combined service provides a new consumer focused solution to address the problem by combining latest cutting edge technology with the widest range of robust data sources. Today represents a shift in the way consumers and companies will view identity verification in the future."


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Unlike other launches, replete with Bollywood stars, swelling crowds and burly security guards, this one was a chic affair.brunch Updated: Jul 21, 2013 10:04 IST
Unlike other launches, replete with Bollywood stars, swelling crowds and burly security guards, this one was a chic affair.
Jagat Singh and Sons launched their second store — Chef’s Gateway — that brings to you world-class bakeware and cookware brands under one roof.
The store is a one-stop shop for international brands such as Lodge, Wilton, Nordic Ware, Norpro, a first in city markets.
The store’s owner, Gurvin Singh, who has joined the family says, “The aim to bring such high-end brands to the city was to invoke the master chefs in our city clientele.”
Gurvin adds that customers were on the lookout for a gourmet store where they could buy quality equipments such as pasta machines, mini-dessert stands or something as simple as a fondant imprint in Chandigarh itself.
The store is equipped with basic yet essential items such as cookie-cutters, quaint cupcake stands or Kransekake forms (used to make large-size cakes) in a range of shapes and sizes that are not exactly pocket-friendly, but a good kitchen investment.
We bumped into one such happy customer Mansi Bansal at the store. Mansi, who recently started her venture, Sweetart, says, “A store like this is very convenient for me as it saves me a trip to Delhi for buying up-scale and professional equipments to bake.”
Located right opposite Hamleys Toy Store on the second floor, the store is worth a visit on your next shopping trip to Elante.
First Published: Jul 21, 2013 10:03 IST


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29 Aug Uniden selects Catalyst RFID software
MILWAUKEE — Uniden America Corp. is now using radio frequency identification (RFID) software from Milwaukee-based Catalyst International. Uniden is the world’s largest manufacturer of cordless telephones.
RFID mandates set by Wal-Mart and Best Buy prompted Uniden to engage the supply chain management technology, according to Catalyst. The telephone maker is using CatalystCommand iRFID to integrate passive RFID technology into its supply chain environment.
Uniden America Corp. is the North American subsidiary of Japan-based Uniden Corp.


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The Canadian retail market continues to polarize. Montreal-based dollar store retailer Dollarama has significantly increased its anticipated maximum number of Canadian stores, and competitor Dollar Tree is looking to increase its current store count five-fold. Family Dollar is also eyeing Canada, creating competition at the low-end which mirrors the potential bloodbath at the top end, as luxury retailers also battle to gain Canadian market share.
In March of 2014, Dollarama CFO Michael Ross said that the then 800-store retailer would expand by about 50%, eventually operating about 1,200 Canadian locations. This was based on a growth number of about 85 stores in 2014, and a further 70 to 80 locations in 2015. According to CTV, Dollarama’s Canadian store count recently sat at 972, with its 1,000th Canadian location set to open this fall. Remarkably, Dollarama now expects that it will eventually operate about 1,400 Canadian locations within the next several years.
American competitor Dollar Tree currently operates over 200 Canadian locations, under the ‘Dollar Tree Canada‘ nameplate. Remarkably, representatives say that its goal is to eventually operate in excess of 1,000 Dollar Tree Canada stores. Both Dollar Tree and Dollarama continue to sign leases and open stores nation-wide, with some busy locations earning well into the millions, according to some landlords we’ve spoken with.
Also operating under the same ownership is American chain Family Dollar. A company representative recently said that Canada is on Family Dollar’s radar, with the potential to open Family Dollar-branded locations in Canada within the next several years. It would be remarkable that Canada would host three large dollar retailers, considering its size and already intense competition.
On BNN last month, HRC Advisory CEO Antony Karabus described how polarization in the Canadian retail market continues to unfold. He noted how high-end and lower-end retailers seem to be succeeding in Canada, while ‘middle-market’ companies struggle and in some cases, close. Canada’s ‘dollar store wars’ is certainly an indication of this, as is increasing competition at the top end of the retail spectrum from a variety of luxury retailers.
Various luxury brands continue to enter the Canadian market, as well as expand existing operations. Prada, for example, will substantially expand its Canadian operations over the next 12 months, and brands such as Dior, Brunello Cucinelli and Jaeger-LeCoultre are preparing to open their first free-standing Canadian stores over the next few months. Large-format luxury retailers are also putting on the boxing gloves — Holt Renfrew, for example, is spending in excess of $300 million to overhaul and expand its store fleet, and Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom plan to open multiple Canadian stores. Upscale menswear retailer Harry Rosen is also spending millions to update and replace some of its locations, as retailers continue to profit from an increasing number of Canadian luxury shoppers.
One Canadian retailer appears to be addressing the polarization trend, carrying both lower-priced product as well as pricey luxury brands. Quebec City-based La Maison Simons, which we discussed yesterday, plans to open up to 25 Canadian stores, up from its current nine locations. About 80% of Simons’ product is reasonably-priced private label, with the remaining 20% being designer, with some fashions priced well into the thousands. Simons appears to be seeing success with its formula — not only does it plan to almost triple its current store count, revenues are forecasted to grow by over 30% within the next two years.


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Abanga Farms and Food Systems Ltd (AFFS) has been making significant strides in the food and agriculture industry, both in Ghana and Namibia.
Recently, (AFFS) has taken over the management of a grain mill in Namibia and is planning to invest in increasing its production capacity.
The investment in the flour mill comes at a time when Namibia, like many other African countries, is facing challenges in its food industry. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for countries to be self-sufficient in terms of food production and supply, and the investment by AFFS is a step in the right direction towards achieving this.
With the flour mill, AFFS aims to increase its production capacity and offer affordable and quality flour products to the Namibian market. This will not only strengthen the local food chain but also create employment opportunities for the local population.
Namibia has vast arable land and favorable weather conditions, making it ideal for agricultural activities. However, the country has been importing a significant amount of its food products, including flour, from other countries. The investment by AFFS in a flour mill is a positive development that will help to reduce the country’s reliance on imports and enhance its food security.
AFFS is committed to sustainable agricultural practices and has a track record of implementing initiatives that benefit both the company and the community. The investment in the flour mill is expected to have a positive impact on the environment, as the company plans to use renewable energy sources in its operations.
The investment by AFFS in a flour mill in Namibia is a positive development that will not only increase production capacity and strengthen the local food chain but also create employment opportunities and contribute to the country’s food security. It is a step in the right direction towards achieving sustainable agriculture and ensuring that Namibia is self-sufficient in terms of food production and supply.


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October 24, 2015
Smallworld Media is planning to launch its super-fast Max Broadband package for residential users in the UK, on November 1st.
The service provides broadband speeds of 30Mbps – the fastest speed currently available for UK users.
The new service, which will be available over Smallworld’s cable network, follows a major investment by the company in digital infrastructure and the launch of a new TV platform earlier in 2015.
Smallworld is providing Max Broadband as a bolt on to its existing packages. The service provides unlimited usage, eliminating worries about additional costs.
As it is provided over cable, all users benefit from the fast speeds, no matter how far they live from the exchange.
However, some customers will receive the service over BT phone lines, in which case Smallworld offers 18Mbps download speeds. Customers with this ‘unbundled’ service could be affected by distance from the exchange.
Smallworld has promised to make it clear to prospective customers which service they will receive – cable broadband or unbundled.
Smallworld is deploying the latest ADSL2+ technology to ensure that its claim of providing the fastest broadband connection will not be beaten.
Unfortunately the service is only available in Ayrshire, Cumbria and Lancashire.


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Mercedes-Benz announced multiple newsworthy innovations during its Operating System Strategy Update in Sunnyvale, California earlier today. The German automaker announced it is building its own proprietary operating system called MB.OS which will offer features like navigation and maps from Google. Additionally, Mercedes announced it is expanding upon a previous partnership with lidar specialist Luminar in a new multi-billion dollar deal to integrate the tech by mid-decade.
First things first. Earlier today, Mercedes-Benz announced plans to develop its own operating system that will debut on its new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) platform. By developing MB.OS in-house (a’hem, with partners), the German automaker says it can retain full control over the relationship with its customers while protecting their privacy.
The design itself is a purpose-built chip-to-cloud architecture that operates major EV domains holistically from infotainment, to charging, and even autonomous driving (more on that in a bit).
The automaker also said MB.OS decouples hardware from software, expediting updates and future innovations. It was designed to also connect all the major aspects of the company’s value chain, including development, production, omni-channel commerce, and service. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius spoke:
At Mercedes-Benz, we are dedicated to building the world’s most desirable cars. Accordingly, we made the decision to be the architects of our own operating system – a unique chip-to-cloud architecture that leverages its full access to our vehicles’ hardware and software components. By combining this in-house expertise with a selection of world-class partners, we will create an outstanding customer experience, from driving assistance, navigation and entertainment, all the way to integrated charging. MB.OS will feature full upgradeability and constant improvements.
The new operating system was created to become standardized across Mercedes’ entire portfolio of vehicles, EVs included of course, by mid-decade when the MMA platform arrives. Another partner in the development of new Mercedes operating system in addition to Google, is NVIDIA.
The software and AI specialist is providing its Orin system-on-chip to enhance benchmark SAE Level 2 and Level 3 automated driving systems, which can further be supported by lidar technology implemented on Mercedes vehicles developed by Luminar Technologies ($LAZR).
Mercedes locks in “multi-billion dollar deal” for lidar tech
According to Luminar Technologies Inc., Mercedes-Benz has significantly increased its investment in a previous partnership between to two companies to incorporate the former’s Iris lidar technology into its next generation of vehicles, again by mid-decade.
The companies have been in close collaboration for over a year following their initial partnership, but Luminar’s Iris lidar only entered series production in October 2022. We have followed its progress as it is currently available as an add-on for Polestar 3 SUV pre-orders, and is an integral component in Volvo’s upcoming EX90, which the automaker is hailing as the “safest vehicle it’s ever built.”
In terms of its work with Mercedes, Luminar says its lidar program has successfully completed its initial phase and associated milestones. Mercedes intends to use Luminar’s next generation of Iris lidar technology to help safely navigate the automated driving systems MB.OS will deliver. This includes higher speeds on freeways and enhanced driver assistance in urban areas.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, spoke to the expanded partnership with Luminar to implement its lidar technology:
In a first step we have introduced a Level 3 system in our top line models. Next, we want to implement advanced automated driving features in a broader scale within our portfolio. I am convinced that Luminar is a great partner to help realize our vision and roadmap for automated and accident-free driving.
Luminar states it will unveil the next-generation version of its Iris lidar system during its Q4 and full-year report next Tuesday.


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Healthcare businesses will experience seismic shifts as consumers take ownership of their data.
Three percent of consumers drive 70 percent of pharmacy spend. Pharmacy is ripe for change.
There's big buzz around consumer behavior driving outcomes. But clinical data doesn't yet align with behavioral data.
Shifting demand will change the nature of work in healthcare.
It's time to marry trust with data ownership.
As featured in this year's Oliver Wyman Health Innovation Journal, we examine the emerging sparks beginning to define the dimensions of a new healthcare industry.
From Walmart to Amazon to 23andMe, these 11 market scenarios paint a picture of what disruption looks like, both in and out of healthcare.
What missed opportunities will incumbents one day wish they had taken advantage of? Adopting a new mentality will disrupt the industry from the inside out.
Oliver Wyman's Chris Schrader shares insights gleaned from this week's mega-event, HIMSS 2017.
Six ways that the new generation of connective technologies can impact the industry and drive long-term value.


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The CEO Today Magazine has yet again awarded Paul the UK CEO of the year 2022 in the manufacturing sector. CEO Today identifies and honours the most respected companies and their C-Level executives who lead the way on a global stage. With the work Paul has undertaken in the field of sustainable polymers and products to meet and support the drive towards a circular economy with Anacarda, Bitrez, and CPS, the team of judges have recognised the benefits this disruptive new technology is providing and we are pleased that that he has been recognised as one of the top CEOs and to report that Paul H. Jones of Bitrez Ltd is a 2022 award winner.
The CEO Today Magazine judges recognised and praised Paul in each of his operations, having a core responsibility to determine the strategic direction of the business. Maintaining a dynamic approach to satisfy short-term, and long-term objectives require the identification of potential hurdles that stem from numerous sources.


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Recently announced by Apple, on Septemeber 12th they will be hosting there annual keynote event at the new Steve Jobs Auditorium at Apple's new headquarters (commonly known as Apple Park) in Cupertino, California, USA which opened to staff in April, 2017.
During this event, it is rumored that the long rumored and numoursly leaked new iPhone 8 will be revealed at this event.
This will likely be the main and biggest reveal of the event.
It is also rumored a new Apple Watch may be revealed during this event.
THIS EVENT WILL BE LIVESTREAMED ON APPLE'S WEBSITE ON SEPTEMBER 12TH AT 10:00 AM PAcific Time Zone/11:00 AM Mountain Time Zone/12:00 PM Central Time Zone
For more info, check out a page about the event on Apple's official website at:
Studio created by @miles854
Logo of this Apple Keynote/The Studio image is from Apple


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CAITLIN Baker has decided to turn the profits from Saturday’s business over to the Leukemia Foundation and World’s Greatest Shave, after she found out the mother of one of her clients had the disease.
Miss Baker runs Evolution Hair and Beauty, and said on Saturday, she would charge only $10 per haircut (with $5 hair sprays), and donate the proceeds to charity.
“We have decided to participate as the cause is very close to our hearts,” she said.
“In recent times we to have lost family members to some form of cancer, and wish to spread the awareness and help those in need.”
She said prices for additional services would remain the same, but any money made would go toward the Leukemia Foundation.
She said three boxes of hair products worth $200 would also be raffled off, to go toward the cause as well.


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Looking for a roundup of the latest and most important news from the automotive world? You've found it in the Daily Drive-Thru. Check it out every weekday to see what you missed and what you need to know.
Confused/concerned/curious about the future of autonomous cars? It's OK, even the people making them are.
Automakers at odds over autonomous car regulations
As manufacturers are racing to develop autonomous vehicle technology, the U.S. government is working just as quickly to put in place laws and regulations for them. Automakers, tech companies and citizens are all petitioning the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which has made for an interesting discourse that has pitted some parties against one another, such as General Motors (pro) and Google (against) on whether autonomous cars should still have steering wheels, brakes and accelerators.
Top priorities that have been discussed include road safety, cyber security and, for manufacturers in particular, ensuring that the guiding hand of the government does not obstruct the development of this technology. Federal regulators will spend the coming months and years answering all the questions that have been hurled at them, but automakers are hoping those answers come quickly, as many are hoping to roll out their autonomous technologies en masse by 2020.
BMW and its i3 electric car have beaten out Tesla Motors for the right to don the Los Angeles Police Department shield. Looking to purchase a fleet of EVs for community outreach and police business, the LAPD tried out both the i3 and Tesla Model Slast year and opted to contract with BMW.
While the Model S can accelerate quicker and reach higher speeds, the i3 won where it really counts: the price tag. At just $42,000 apiece, the i3 is a little more than a third of the price of a Model S P90D, and that difference really adds up in a 100-car fleet. The BMW EVs also features a 150-mile gasoline range extender to quell the police department's concerns about use during a power outage.
Chevrolet is not afraid to get in bed with Ford, but only to prove a point. I should clarify, the bed, or beds, rather, are attached to the F-150 and Silverado pickup trucks and Chevy is in each to prove that it's truck is made from more durable material than Ford's.
Chevrolet released a video this week showing a variety of tests it put the two truck beds through, including an in-lab puncture test with a sheet of metal from each pickup, as well as two more visually striking tests: dumping 55 bricks onto each from 5 feet in the air and pushing a steel toolbox into each from the side railing. The Silverado outperformed in each test, which isn't surprising considering that Chevrolet released the video, but it should serve as potent ammunition in this latest battle in the pickup war.
Without Lyft or Uber, Austin finds a way to rideshare
In classic oddball, Austin fashion, residents of Texan capital have found a way to continue ridesharing despite a city law barring ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft. Though it's not quite as efficient or seamless as the aforementioned apps, ride seekers can now coordinate transportation by posting on a Facebook page.
It might seem primitive by 2016 standards, but the Arcade City Austin / Request A Ride page has more than 32,000 members and is working quite well, according to Autoblog. Ride seekers post a request that includes where they are, where they're going and when they need to go and a would-be driver replies with an ETA, price and phone number to call. It's a peer-to-peer network, so prices are negotiable and payable by cash (or any other agreed upon payment).
Correction: Samsung will not provide Model 3 batteries
I told you yesterday that Samsung was closing in on a deal with Tesla Motors to be the exclusive supplier of batteries for the upcoming Model 3 sedan, but that is, in fact, incorrect. Tesla CEO Elon Musk took to Twitter to right the record after a bevy of outlets ran with a story from Reutersthat cited unnamed sources to reported that the two companies were close to an accord on the Model 3. Musk said his company would be sticking with Panasonic to power the electric motors inside its forthcoming affordable EV. Panasonic has supplied all the batteries for Tesla's Model S and Model X vehicles.
The initial news was a boon for Samsung's stock, but once Musk took to Twitter, all that market confidence went out the window, causing the company's shares to drop 8 percent, or in other words $580 million. If it's any consolation to Samsung and its investors, Musk confirmed that the Japanese company is still in the running to provide batteries for Tesla Energy, the company's in-home battery operation.


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The music you bought this week: Beyonce, Lloyd, Bon Iver and more
Music sales may no longer be the surefire barometer of success they once were, yet the Nielsen SoundScan charts Wednesday represent perhaps an even broader snapshot of artists resonating with fans. Though the charts are no longer the providence of the mainstream, below is a snapshot of some of the music that has inspired the populace to part with cash.
At the top: A slow week for major releases keeps Beyoncé and Adele in control of the top two positions on the U.S. pop chart. In its second week on the market, Beyonce's "4" sold 115,000 copies, giving the set a two-week stand at 426,000. Meanwhile, Adele's "21" remains the model of consistency, racking up another 80,000 copies sold in its 20th week on the charts. So far, "21" has sold well over 2.5 million copies.
Gaga progress: Lady Gaga's debut "The Fame" sold more than 4 million copies by steadily hanging around the upper echelon of the chart for more than a year. So there was cause for concern when Gaga's latest, "Born This Way," fell out of the top-10 last week in only its sixth week on the chart. Gaga's sales aren't up this week, but "Born This Way" experiences a relatively small sales dip, allowing it to worm its way back into the top-10. "Born This Way" is at No. 8 this week with 30,000 copies sold and 1.5 million total.
A 'King of Hearts' is No. 10: Young R&B star Lloyd, who walks the line between the profane and the romantic, just barely lands in the top-10 with his latest, "King of Hearts." The effort sold 26,000 copies. "King of Hearts" is the only new album to debut in the top-40, and Billboard reports that "King of Hearts" doesn't quite measure up to the first week sales of his 2008 effort "Lessons in Love," which opened with more than 50,000 copies sold.
So this exists: When last we saw a new album from Limp Bizkit it was 2005 and the band had just issued the brief "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)." The latter is still without a sequel, but the band is back with "Gold Cobra." The album bowed in the top-20 last week, but slips to No. 56 this week, having sold 35,000 copies in its two weeks. Your prior thoughts on the band, whether good or bad, will likely be reinforced by "Gold Cobra."
One for the sensitive folks: The surprising success story of indie softy Bon Iver continues this week, as sophomore album, "Bon Iver," rests at No. 11 in its third week. It's the same post the album held last week although sales are down 24% to 24,000 copies. To date, however, the set has moved 167,000 copies.
Locals, etc: Electro-pop act Foster the People are at No. 31 this week, adding another 11,000 copies sold of "Torches" to bring its seven-week total to just over the 100,000 copy mark. "Goblin," the solo effort from Tyler the Creator, the anchor of hip-hop outfit Odd Future, is in danger of falling off the top-200. It's at No. 170 this week, and has sold 89,000 copies in eight weeks. Retro-soul act Fitz & the Tantrums bounce back onto the chart, benefiting, perhaps, for an iTunes promotion that placed "Pickin' Up the Pieces" on sale for $6.99. It's the second time that Fitz has been in the top-200, and "Pieces" has sold 71,000 copies to date.
-- Todd Martens
Photo: Beyoncé performs during the taping of the third to last episode of "The Oprah Winfrey Show." Credit: Peter Wynn Thompson / AFP/Getty Images


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Elevated Third has just launched the new version of the website for BrandJuice
Online PR News – 08-July-2011 – – DENVER, CO - Denver interactive agency Elevated Third has just launched the new version of the website for BrandJuice, a Denver-based branding and innovation agency. The new site went live on May 23, 2011 at http://www.brandjuice.com.
BrandJuice was not seeking a full website redesign but want to have a much easier way to add new content to the site as needed. Kevin Cook, a developer at Elevated Third, converted the BrandJuice website to Drupal, an open-source content management system. The new website retains the same design and navigation, only now, it is far easier to add, remove and update content.
About BrandJuice: Based in Denver, CO, BrandJuice has become a leader in branding and innovation. Working with Fortune 100 clients, BrandJuice has been successful in creating new products, re-imagining old products for a new market or audience and finding the right identity for an exciting new idea.
About Elevated Third: Founded by Jeff Calderone in 2005, Elevated Third is a Denver Interactive Agency (http://www.elevatedthird.com) that uses the Drupal content management system and creates conversion-focused websites. The firm also offers search engine marketing services and website design services.


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MOTIV Bowling Advances to the PBA National All-Tour Program
It hasn’t even been 2 years yet and, already, the MOTIV™ brand of bowling balls is surpassing expectations. This success has allowed the company to step up their game with the PBA and advance registration to the national level.
For the 2010-2011 bowling season, MOTIV™ equipment will be registered under the All-Tour Competition program. This allows MOTIV™ equipment to be used, not only in regional and senior PBA competition, but in national events as well. This is a huge step forward for the young brand.
Now that the company is registered nationally with the PBA, the opportunity to get more bowlers MOTIVated is massive. “We are absolutely fired up about advancing our PBA registration to the national level”, states Scott Hewitt, VP of Marketing. “When we launched the product line less than 2 years ago, we could only imagine how exciting this opportunity would be. This PBA All-Tour Competition registration is a big investment for us and we believe it will further strengthen our position in the bowling market.”
Without a doubt, MOTIV™ is getting recognized in the bowling industry. When the brand launched, many people in the industry questioned the decision of the company to launch a new bowling ball brand. “I think one of our distributors said it best”, states Hewitt, “He said to me, think of the bowling ball market as a big mountain. Other ball companies are just trying to hang on. Then, here comes MOTIV™, running up the side.”
The people at MOTIV™ were always confident in their future success. One reason was because of the solid experienced team of people behind the operation. Before the MOTIV brand was launched, the company had manufactured high performance bowling ball cores for other brands in the bowling industry. But, this manufacturing expertise alone was not enough.
According to Scott Wilbur, President of the company, “We knew MOTIV™ was going to be a huge success when we engineered NeoMark™ coverstock graphics technology (patent pending). Instead of engraving logos onto the high performance balls, like every other brand, our NeoMark™ graphics integrate with the coverstock and make MOTIV™ equipment distinctive.”
Certainly there is something unique about MOTIV™, and the new PBA national registration will enable the company to Motivate more bowlers than ever before. For more information on the company and its products, visit www.motivbowling.com.


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Keyword: ADVA Optical Networking
Edgecore Networks and Adva announced today that they were developing a white box gateway for mobile cell sites as part of Facebook's TIP initiative.
After a somewhat rocky start, virtual network functions are poised to grow to $16.4 billion in revenues by 2022, according to an IDC report.
Adva has put its three years of experience working on NFV into a major revamp of its Ensemble suite that it says will make deploying NFV much easier.
Colt Technology Services has rolled its On Demand service into Singapore while also launching SD-WAN in Asia Pacific and the United States.
Colt is close to launching a new universal customer premises equipment (uCPE) platform that's the first flavor of its new on-demand platforms.
Colt is working with German vendor Adva to build and globally deploy its new universal customer premises equipment (uCPE) platform.
Adva has added zero-touch provisioning capabilities to its FSP 150 ProNID edge device line.
Ciena has taken the number one position in the Ethernet Access Devices market, says IHS Research.
Take a look back at the key trends that were seen at last week’s OFC 2018 tradeshow.
Adva says that despite excitement around the technology, the evolution to 400G will take several years.


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CDS targets rapid growth with strategic new hires
Two key new appointments to expand and strengthen New Business and Account Development
Multi-award winning communications agency, CDS, has made two key new appointments.
Alex Coates, Director of New Business and Account Development (Leeds)
Alex moved to CDS from RR Donnelley where he had been responsible for their Retail and Consumer Brands business in Europe.
Alex is particularly interested in consumer behaviour.
Alex said, “Being in the mindset of the consumer and their developing expectations for a personalised experience is key to understanding the challenges for today’s Chief Marketing Officer.”
He added, “I believe it is both a privilege and a responsibility to support customers in capitalising on the ‘consumerisation’ of technology, access to data and the true integration between traditional and digital channels. This presents huge opportunities — for the benefit of both consumer and brand.”
Before his time with RR Donnelley, Alex gained more than 10 years’ experience in business process and technology outsourcing. He has a track record of delivering significant improvements in client operational efficiency, agility and financial performance.
He has worked with the world's most recognised multi-national brands as well as the UK's most trusted retail and eCommerce businesses.
Samantha Chapman, Account Manager (London)
Samantha has extensive account management experience guiding complex projects, in print, digital and packaging, from design through production.
Most recently Samantha has worked across integrated advertising campaigns for Sky. She has managed global campaigns for retail brands and packaging redesign projects for fast-moving consumer goods retailers.
Samantha was initially attracted to CDS due to the interesting and varied clients they work with and their broad service offering.
After starting at CDS, she said: “I am excited to become part of such a collaborative and passionate team and to make a positive impact in delivering innovative solutions to benefit existing and future clients.”
I am thrilled to welcome Alex and Sam into the team. We have strong plans to continue the business growth so hiring the best talent is critical to our success as we build our existing and new sector development. We are already seeing significant new business wins and key sector development. The new appointments strengthen our position, on our way to achieving the £50m target set in our 2020 strategic plan.
CDS Managing Director


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A cell phone tower in South Bay is getting a new look with an elevated art piece called 'Birds on Blue.'
It's one of the first art pieces in the telecommunications industry designed both to conceal a cell phone tower and offer an artistic component for the community. According to the designers, the sculptures were made from foam and covered in protective fiber glass.
San Diegans will see the art piece when taking the Beyer exit on Interstate 905, between Interstate 5 and 805, as the cell phone tower is visibly positioned next to the freeway.
"I hope they notice something unique, something that may catch their eye or get their curiosity, rather than just one more piece of utility," said Sandy McDaniel, one of the designers of 'Birds on Blue.'
Another designer who partnered with McDaniel to create the art piece, Ron Pekar, told NBC 7 there are about 75 birds in the project, each one individually sculpted.
According McDaniel, the piece was not designed solely for the purpose of hiding the cell phone tower. 'Birds on Blue' was designed as an opportunity to enhance the community and create an interesting visual for locals as well.
"The birds represent flight, free spirit, and they just kind of blend in with the sky and clouds; and they will change as the lighting changes and the shadows change, said McDaniel.
Some of the challenges included gaining prior approval from the City of San Diego, Caltrans and a community group, said Pekar. Another challenge was not being able to use steel and having to find radio-friendly art materials.


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Hooker, OK, located in the Oklahoma Panhandle at the juncture of Highways 54 and 64, is the site of a $200-million beef processing plant Smithfield Foods plans to break ground on in January. The announcement on the 50/50 joint venture was made this week by Smithfield Beef Group Inc., and ContiGroup Companies.
Construction of the 650,000-sq.-ft. plant, the first of its size in more than 20 years in the U.S., is scheduled for completion in mid-2008, and will have a processing capability of more than 5,000 head/day. Five Rivers Ranch Cattle Feeding LLC, the world's largest cattle-feeding enterprise, another 50/50 joint venture between ContiGroup Companies and Smithfield Foods, Inc., will supply most of the cattle for the packing venture. Five Rivers consists of 10 feedyards in Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas with a one-time capacity of 811,000 head.
According to Meatingplace.com, Smithfield Beef Group CEO Richard Vesta said the company explored 30 locations before settling on Texas County. The proximity of the Five Rivers operations was cited as one reason for the decision, which would save transportation costs and provide traceability advantages.
-- Joe Roybal


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- Shortly after announcing a new five-year strategy, Canada Goose made a slew of executive appointments, including naming its first chief digital officer and bringing on a chief transformation officer.
- Joining the company are Juliette Streichenberger, president of Canada Goose International AG and Europe, the Middle East and Africa; Matt Blonder, chief digital officer; and Daniel Binder, chief transformation officer and executive vice president of sales operations and planning.
- At the same time, President of North America Ana Mihaljevic will also become Canada Goose’s head of global stores, and Patrick Bourke, who previously led investor relations, will transition to senior vice president of strategy and corporate development. All in all, the retailer made five changes to its leadership team.
Canada Goose is bringing on a host of seasoned executives to lead its five-year strategy.
Unveiled in February, the plan includes doubling its brick-and-mortar footprint and reaching $3 billion in revenue by 2028. It also relies heavily on direct-to-consumer sales: the channel is expected to account for 80% of the retailer’s total revenue by then.
Accordingly, the retailer has named an executive to lead its long-term physical store roadmap and tapped its first chief digital officer to oversee digital innovation and strategy. Blonder, who is taking on the latter role, has more than 20 years of experience in digital, DTC and omnichannel efforts, including at Reebok, where he overhauled the company’s e-commerce site. He joins after a stint as president of global e-commerce at Wolverine Worldwide, which owns Sweaty Betty and Sperry, among other brands.
The retailer’s other appointments are equally as experienced: Streichenberger joins Canada Goose from Hermès and has almost 30 years of global luxury experience at companies like Prada and LVMH; Binder has more than 35 years of retail experience, including at LVMH and Macy’s. The appointment of Binder as chief transformation officer comes after he already held some consulting and interim roles with Canada Goose. His position is aimed specifically at ensuring scalable growth, which has been a challenge for many DTC brands and has led many companies to layoffs and restructuring in recent years.
“The execution of our five-year strategic growth plan requires an experienced and talented team of experts that will help us expand our direct-to-consumer business, reach new audiences and build new categories,” Dani Reiss, chairman and CEO of Canada Goose, said in a statement. "As we accelerate our business and execute against our strategic growth pillars, these appointments reflect the performance luxury brand and global retailer we are today – and strengthen the foundation we’ve built for the business we will be in the future."
In addition to expanding its store footprint and improving its digital presence, Canada Goose also has its eye on growing its product offering. The retailer expanded into footwear in 2021 and is planning to diversify its assortment to appeal to more seasons.


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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has reported that it generated N4.3 trillion as tax revenue between January and October this year.
FIRS Executive Chairman, Babatunde Fowler, who disclosed this during the “Federal Inland Revenue Service Special Day” at the just concluded Lagos International Trade Fair held at Tafawa Balewa Square expressed optimism that the service would meet up with its 2018 revenue target before the end of the year.
Represented by Mrs Angel Fadahunsi, FIRS South West Head, Federal Engagement and Enlightenment Tax Team, Fowler stated, “I am pleased to inform you today that the FIRS has recorded remarkable performance in terms of revenue collection this year.
“For instance, as at October 31st, our collection was N4.3 trillion and we believe we have the potential to meet our assigned target at the end of the year.
“We realised that this performance would not have been possible but for the present administration’s policy of expanding the nation’s tax base and blocking revenue leakages,” he said.
According to him, the agency focused its attention on businesses with over a billion naira in annual turnover without any record of commensurate payment of tax obligations to boost its revenue performance, adding that 6000 of such companies had been identified and contacted by the service leveraging on various data sources.
” We will continue to focus on recovering all such revenues due to the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria.
” We encourage the business community and all well-meaning citizens to continue to partner with us to ensure that defaulters are traced and face the consequences while compliant businesses receive all the support they require,” he added.


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In theory, the QE process is supposed to create money to encourage businesses and consumers to borrow more leading to more spending and eventually economic growth.
What seemed to have happened with QE in the US and the UK is that a 'business opportunity' was created for the 'super-rich' and the rest of the economy lagged, leading to the top 1% now owning and controlling nearly half of the wealth of the UK.
Today's QE argument from the ECB is that the eurozone is suffering from deflation. But what exactly do they mean by deflation? According to supply side economic theory, deflation is defined as 'the deterioration of the monetary standard' and occurs when prices fall. The ECB is worried that eurozone deflation will create a dangerous situation because growth will stall as businesses and consumers stop spending, waiting in anticipation for prices to to fall even further.
Deflation, according to the theory creates some confusion because commodity prices fall even though the cost of living continues to rise:
The effects of government fiscal policy and monetary policy on investment decisions are constantly changing … (s)ome business sectors will benefit more than others by the effects of these policies ...ECB QE could be five times less efficient than in the US according to SocGen.
during the deflation of 1996-2001 the dollar’s value increased by about 44%. If the Federal Reserve continues causing the dollar’s value to swing upward and downward … with increasing frequency, investors must be well-advised to stay whole and to prosper.
They claim the ECB had run studies suggesting that €1000bn QE will only boost eurozone price levels by 0.2-0.8 percent, which is 'five to nine times less efficient than the US or the UK.'
Something tells me this is just the beginning


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Charge for them.
Let users be customers and not just consumers. Let demand engage supply the old fashioned way: by paying for goods and services, and making the sellers directly accountable to buyers in a truly competitive marketplace.
Here’s the thing. We, the customers of Apple and the consumers of both Apple’s and Google’s free map services, are getting screwed by value-subtracting games played by both companies.
Millions of us are highly dependent on our phones’ primary maps app. From the beginning on the iPhone that app has been Google’s — or at least seemed to be. By replacing it with a shamefully lame app by the same name, Apple screwed its customers, hard. Why? Because it wanted to screw Google. And why screw Google? Because Google had been screwing both Apple and iPhone/iPad customers for the duration.
Or so I assume. I really don’t know.
A few days ago I asked A question about Apple vs. Google maps. Noting that Google’s Maps app on iPhone lacked at least two features found on Android versions of the app — adaptive turn-by-turn directions and vocalization — I wondered out loud if Google was playing a passive-aggressive game with Apple by crippling the iOS version of the app. One commenter said it was Apple’s choice not to include those features; but in a New York Times column a few days ago, David Pogue confirmed my original suspicion:
After poking around, here’s what I’ve learned.
First, why Apple dropped the old version: Google, it says, was saving all the best features for phones that run its Android software. For example, the iPhone app never got spoken directions or vector maps (smooth lines, not tiles of pixels), long after those features had come to rival phones.
Hey, if that’s the case, and if I were Apple, I’d be pissed too — and I’d want to offer a better maps app than Google’s. As an iPhone and iPad user, I’ve been annoyed for years at Google for obviously crippling its iOS Maps app. (Datum: I’m also an Android user.) But now it bothers me a lot more that Google hardly seems to mind that Apple killed the Google-sourced Maps app for the entire iOS 6 user base. Why would Google be so blasé? One big reason is that Apple’s users pay nothing for the app. And, because users pay nothing, Google can ignore those users’ suffering while relishing the sight of Apple embarrassing itself.
To fully understand what’s going on here, it is essentiall to respect the difference between customers and users (aka consumers). Customers pay. By not paying, and functioning only as a user, you have little if any economic leverage. Worse, you’re the product being sold to the actual customers, which are advertisers.
This Google vs. Apple thing reminds me of my days in commercial broadcasting. There too consumers and customers were different populations. Consumers were listeners and viewers whose ears and eyeballs were sold to advertisers, who were the real customers. Listeners and viewers had no leverage when a station or a network got in the mood to kill a format, or a show. We’re in the same spot here, at least in respect to Google.
With Apple it’s different, because iPhone and iPad users are actual customers of Apple. Now chagrined, Apple is pressing that advantage, starting with Tim Cook’s open letter to customers. An excerpt:
We are extremely sorry for the frustration this has caused our customers and we are doing everything we can to make Maps better.
We launched Maps initially with the first version of iOS. As time progressed, we wanted to provide our customers with even better Maps including features such as turn-by-turn directions, voice integration, Flyover and vector-based maps. In order to do this, we had to create a new version of Maps from the ground up.
There are already more than 100 million iOS devices using the new Apple Maps, with more and more joining us every day. In just over a week, iOS users with the new Maps have already searched for nearly half a billion locations. The more our customers use our Maps the better it will get and we greatly appreciate all of the feedback we have received from you.
While we’re improving Maps, you can try alternatives by downloading map apps from the App Store like Bing, MapQuest and Waze, or use Google or Nokia maps by going to their websites and creating an icon on your home screen to their web app.
If you buy an iPhone you’re already paying for the Maps app. So this post is mostly for Google. While I think an apology is owed to iPhone and iPad users, for withholding features just to disadvantage those devices against Android (if in fact that’s what happened… I still don’t know for sure), I’d rather see Google offer Google Maps for sale, at a fair price, in the Apple Apps store. And I’d like to see Apple approve that product for sale, pronto.
Trust me: plenty of customers will pay. Google will not only drive home the real value of its Maps app (and all the good work behind it), but get some long-overdue practice at doing real customer service. Google’s high dependence on a single source of revenue — advertising — is a vulnerability that can only be reduced by broadening the company’s businesses. The future of selling direct has been looming at Google for a long time. There is a great opportunity, right now, to do that in a big way with Google Maps.
Data wants to be free, but value wants to be paid for. Let us pay. We’re the damed market. Let us help you work out the kinks in your products. Develop real relationships with us, and provide real customer support that’s worth what we pay for it.
[Later…] Some tweets, sort of threaded:
@Kevin Marks: @jamiestarke @dsearls http://wireless.fcc.gov/releases/9182009_Google_Filing_iPhone.pdf … Google Latitude was rejected because Apple believed it could replace the preloaded maps app (p3) [Link]
So are you (Owen and Kevin) saying David Pogue got bad info from Apple in the piece quoted above?
Either way, the question then is, Who crippled the old Maps app? Was it Google, Apple, or both? Also, Why?
I still stand by my recommendation that Google offer the map for sale on iOS. And on Android too, for the reasons I give above.
Meanwhile, somebody ought to put up a post, or a site, explaining the particulars of this case. Such as whose app Maps was, and is now. Most stories (seems to me) about the fracas say the old app was Google’s. If it wasn’t, and was instead an Apple map fed by the Google API, that needs to be made clear. I’m still fuzzed around the details here.
[Later (1 October)…] Christina Bonnington in Wired says it was Apple’s decision not to include turn-by-turn directions in the Maps app. She writes,
When iOS first launched in the iPhone in 2007, Apple embraced Google Maps as its mapping back-end. But over the years, rivalry between the tech giants increased to a fever pitch. So it’s likely that Apple decided some years ago to eventually abandon Google Maps, and create its own platform. And because Apple knew it was eventually going to drop Google as its back-end, there was no point in pushing further innovation or integration with the system doomed to a limited lifespan.
But do I believe her, just because she’s writing for Wired? Do I believe David Pogue, just because he’s writing for the NY Times? Obviously, they don’t agree. At least one is wrong about whether the Maps app was crippled by Google (says David) or Apple (says Christina). At this point I can’t believe either of them. For that I’ll need. at the very least, a quote from a source who knows. I mean, really knows.
Mother Jones‘ original slogan was, “You trust your mother. But you cut the cards.” So here’s my card-cutting: I want hard facts on exactly what happened here. Who made the decision not to include turn-by-turn and voice directions in the Maps app on iOS? It had to have been Apple, Google or some combination of both. Which was it? How? And why?
[Later (2 October)…] In Voice navigation killed Apple-Google maps talks, John Paczkowski of Fox News does the best job I’ve seen yet of pulling the covers back on what actually happened:
Google Chairman Eric Schmidt said Apple should have continued to use Google’s mapping application in iOS 6 instead of swapping it out for its poorly received home-brewed replacement, and given the sour reception Apple’s Maps app has been given, he may have been right.
But multiple sources familiar with Apple’s thinking say the company felt it had no choice but to replace Google Maps with its own, because of a disagreement over a key feature: Voice-guided turn-by-turn driving directions.
Spoken turn-by-turn navigation has been a free service offered through Google’s Android mobile OS for a few years now. But it was never part of the deal that brought Google’s Maps to iOS. And sources say Apple very much wanted it to be. Requiring iPhone users to look directly at handsets for directions and manually move through each step — while Android users enjoyed native voice-guided instructions — put Apple at a clear disadvantage in the mobile space…
Apple pushed Google hard to provide the data it needed to bring voice-guided navigation to iOS. But according to people familiar with Google’s thinking, the search giant, which had invested massive sums in creating that data and views it as a key feature of Android, wasn’t willing to simply hand it over to a competing platform.
And if there were terms under which it might have agreed to do so, Apple wasn’t offering them. Sources tell AllThingsD that Google, for example, wanted more say in the iOS maps feature set. It wasn’t happy simply providing back-end data. It asked for in-app branding. Apple declined. It suggested adding Google Latitude. Again, Apple declined. And these became major points of contention between the two companies, whose relationship was already deteriorating for a variety of other reasons, including Apple’s concern that Google was gathering too much user data from the app.
“There were a number of issues inflaming negotiations, but voice navigation was the biggest,” one source familiar with Apple and Google’s negotiations told AllThingsD. “Ultimately, it was a deal-breaker.”
So maybe we’ll never know. “Sources” will, but the rest of us won’t.


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Building on its introduction of over-the-air (OTA) programming for its proprietary engines, International Trucks is now the first truck OEM to offer OTA programming for Cummins engines.
Over-the-air programming, available through the nine-pin International LINK device, enables drivers or fleet managers to utilize a mobile interface to initiate engine programming at the customer’s facility over a safe, secure Wi-Fi Connection. The service offers drivers and fleets an easy, secure means of updating engine control modules to reflect the latest manufacturer-approved calibrations, without the necessity of visiting a dealer or other service facility.
This new service for users of Cummins engines builds on our commitment to open-architecture solutions that provide drivers and fleets with improved uptime. Many of our customers have mixed fleets, and thanks to this industry-leading innovation, customers will be able to program Cummins’ engines without having to leave their own facilities. This open-architecture approach will provide drivers and fleets with an added measure of ease, convenience, efficiency and productivity.—Terry Kline, senior vice president and chief information officer, Navistar
The service will first be available for limited production release of Cummins 2017 model year engines, beginning in fall 2016. The two companies plan to expand the service to additional model years.
International was the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to introduce OTA programming of engine control modules (ECMs). It first offered the service for International trucks powered by its N9, N10 and N13 proprietary engines. The company partners with industry-leading data and technology companies to ensure that the system offers the highest level of security.


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Did you miss a session from GamesBeat Summit Next 2022? All sessions are now available for viewing in our on-demand library. Click here to start watching.
What does Microsoft have to prove with Windows Phone 8? In short, quite a bit.
Microsoft is kicking off its Windows Phone Developer Summit today in San Francisco, where the company says it will reveal the “future of Windows Phone.” Microsoft is expected to finally unveil the details on its next major mobile OS version, Windows Phone 8, which also goes by the codename Apollo.
I initially expected the Windows Phone Dev Summit to be a low-key affair. After all, Microsoft’s developer events have never rivaled the frenzy of Apple’s WWDC, and it’s also set a week before Google’s I/O developer conference.
We’ve been hearing about leaked Windows Phone 8 features for months now, including multi-core processor support, new screen resolutions, and an updated Zune client for Windows PCs (ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley has a long list of other expected features). But all of those features seem incremental and fairly unexciting. More interesting to me are the things we haven’t heard a peep about — announcements big enough to potentially turn the tide for Windows Phone’s tiny market share.
Here’s what I’m hoping to learn about Windows Phone 8 today:
Old device support: One of the biggest questions running up to the Apollo launch is, which, if any, existing Windows Phones will be upgradeable to the new OS. Right now Microsoft is playing coy with upgrade details, but if the reports are true, the company will need to have a good reason for keeping Windows Phone 8 from modern Windows Phone devices like the Lumia 900.
Where are the developers, developers, developers?: How will Microsoft encourage developers to think of Windows Phone as more than just an afterthought? Early reports indicate that the company may make it easy for Windows 8 developers to bring their Metro apps to Windows Phone, but Microsoft still needs to do more to spark a healthy developer ecosystem.
What the heck is going on with Skype?: Microsoft bought Skype for a whopping $8.5 billion last year, but the fruits of that union have yet to appear. It took forever for a Skype app to finally land on Windows Phone, and the Skype desktop apps haven’t seen major updates (though the Mac Skype app got a worthwhile facelift). We’re hearing that Microsoft is planning a revamped Skype app for Apollo, but it won’t actually be integrated into the OS.
VentureBeat’s Jolie O’Dell will be on the ground at the Windows Phone Developer Summit, so check back for more details throughout the day. You can view the event streaming at Microsoft’s Channel 9 starting at 9 am PST.
Lumia 900 Windows Phone 7 photo: Sean Ludwig/VentureBeat
Design is determining the winners in everything mobile. The most successful players are focusing on one thing: How to make products, services, and devices as compelling and delightful as possible – visually, and experientially. MobileBeat 2012, July 10-11 in San Francisco , is assembling the most elite minds to debate how UI/UX is transforming every aspect of the mobile economy, and where the opportunities lie. Register here.
VentureBeat's mission is to be a digital town square for technical decision-makers to gain knowledge about transformative enterprise technology and transact. Discover our Briefings.


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Jackson, Mich. – Women are in the driver’s seat when it comes to digital photography and camera ownership, according to PMA.
In 2007, women overtook men in digital camera purchases for the first time, according to the association’s 2008 Digital Imaging Survey.
Women accounted for 58 percent of all digital camera purchases in 2007, PMA said. Females “are even more likely than males to own digital cameras and they tend to take control of picture taking, printing and sharing,” PMA reported.
Digital SLRs, on the other hand, appear to be the last redoubt of male dominance. Males purchased 50 percent of all d-SLR models in 2007, PMA said, although “with models aimed at all types of consumers more widely available at affordable prices, more females may be inclined to replace point-and-shoot digital cameras with DSLR models in the near future.”
Household penetration of digital cameras grew 20 percent from 2006 to 2007, reaching 66 percent of U.S. homes, PMA noted.


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Prices may be skyrocketing everywhere else, but you can save big bucks every day at the DNC’s Veep Outlet Store!
Huge discounts on all irregular or damaged Veep products currently in stock!
Pay a fraction of what you would in department stores!
TODAY’S SPECIAL: Steep discounts on photos with Vice President Kamala Harris!
Why pay $15,000 to get a picture with Kamala when here at the Veep Outlet Store you can get the same picture at the low-low price of $5,000?!
No other store gives you that kind of discount!
But here at the DNC’s Veep Outlet Store, we sell only irregular or slightly damaged Veeps and we pass the savings on to you!
The DNC’s Veep Outlet Store is also featuring out-of-season pricing on other irregular stock including classic products from the Walter Mondale collection and the Joe Biden collection*!
And you won’t believe the discounts we have in store for you on the entire DNC line of Lloyd Bentsen products that we accidentally bought too much of in 1988 when we thought Dukakis was going to win.
This week only, buy two Bentsen products and we’ll throw in any overly-confident over-order item from the 2016 Tim Kaine collection ABSOLUTELY FREE!!!
Don’t miss the savings waiting for you at the DNC’s Veep Outlet Store!
Some restrictions apply.
*The talking Biden doll isn’t technically irregular. It’s supposed to speak gibberish.
Okay, I thought that up in the shower this morning at three, so there’s a strong possibility I’m the only one who found that funny.
Yesterday, reporter Tara Palmeri of Puck News tweeted that after the DNC failed to sell enough tickets for donors to pose for a photo with Vice President Kamala Harris, the “Women’s Leadership Forum” fundraiser scheduled for May had to be postponed until June. This time, to sweeten the pot, the DNC has slashed the price for a photo from $15,000 a pop to only $5,000 in hopes of attracting more
So while consumer prices continue to rise at a staggering pace, the DNC had to offer a deep 60% discount just to get people to agree to pose with the deeply unpopular Kamala Harris.
I admit, when I saw Palmeri’s tweet, I laughed so hard, I nearly coughed up a lung.
Talk about ending up with egg on her face. This must be eating Kamala alive.
Remember when The Hill reported back in September that the Democrats believed Kamala Harris was going to be their “secret weapon” in the Midterms?
The Hill wrote at the time:
Harris’s allies believe she will play a significant role, both by fundraising and participating in campaign rallies.
That was then…
Now? Kamala Harris is collecting dust on the discount rack at the DNC’s Veep Outlet Store.
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Ford has partnered with BET to send one lucky winner to the 2013 BET Awards in Los Angeles on June 30th, including exclusive access to the Ford-sponsored pre-show Red Carpet, access to the Ford Hot Spot social media room, where celebs and bloggers hang out to Tweet and Instagram. The winner also gets to travel around town all weekend in an all-new 2013 Ford Fusion.
Now that I have your attention:
- Read ecoXplorer reviews of best 2013 and 2014 cars under $20,000
- Read ecoXplorer reviews of best hybrid cars like the Ford Fusion Hybrid
Ford is calling this sweepstakes the ‘Rolling with Ford AND The BET Awards Contest’, and it’s FREE to enter. Just sign up at the special BET-Roll With Ford microsite by June 13. To be entered into the contest, create and upload an original 60-second video showing and telling why you should be a guest of Ford at the 2013 BET Awards, which is being hosted by comedian Chris Tucker and will include exciting performances by Chris Brown and R. Kelly.
Join the conversation on Twitter by using hashtag #FordHotSpot.


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ATLANTA — Puma had a ground-breaking ceremony this week for its new Puma Plaza headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, the sports apparel and footwear lifestyle company’s hometown.
The 538,000 square-foot site will house a seven-story administration center for the central European hub, a new brand center and a new concept and factory outlet store. Puma expects construction to be finished at the end of 2009.
The three new buildings will form a space in the middle, creating the plaza. The brand center will exhibit innovative lifestyle collections in a presentation space of nearly 108,000 square feet.
On the energy conservation front, Puma plans a photovoltaic generating station on the roof of the outlet center, as well as solar modules to be integrated in the window front. Water will be partly heated by solar energy. Presence detectors will ensure energy conservation by turning out the light when an employee leaves his office. Concrete core temperature controls meet the highest ecological standards, Puma said, and will ensure sustainable heating and cooling.


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IHS Markit has become increasingly concerned about the lack of visibility for strong global demand in the second quarter of 2020, compounded by the additional manufacturing capacity (cells and modules) expected to start ramping production in the first half of 2020. Image: Jolywood
IHS Markit has reiterated its global solar demand forecast for 2019, despite lower expectations for China.
The market research firm said that faster than anticipated growth in some international markets such as the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Italy, Turkey, or Ukraine had reduced the growth risks associated with weaker demand in China.
IHS Markit also remained bullish on the APAC region outside of China and several South American markets having greater upside potential for solar installations in 2019.
As a result, global solar installations are expected to be around 129GW in 2019.
However, the market research firm has become increasingly concerned about the lack of visibility for strong global demand in the second quarter of 2020, compounded by the additional manufacturing capacity (cells and modules) expected to start ramping production in the first half of 2020.
The impact of weak demand and potential overcapacity could impact the entire supply chain and initiate another cycle of gross margin compression for the PV industry.
Leading ‘Solar Module Super League’ supplier, JinkoSolar has teamed with experts from TÜV NORD and Soltec to provide as usual a technically driven PV Tech ‘TechTalk’ series webinar to further understand the Tiger PRO modules impact on LCOE metrics. Register free now.
PV Tech is hosting a TechTalk Product Series webinar with LONGi Solar to help PV project developers, asset owners and interested parties become aware of the latest in utility-scale PV panel technology, performance and size that is redefining LCOE metrics.
Going into its fifth year over 200 delegates from 150 companies and 20 countries representing the PV supply chain will gather in Malaysia to discuss the technology roadmaps for PV cell advancement in GW markets. The scope of the event has been expanded this year, to cover developments in wafer supply and thin-film investments and technologies alongside all the regular benefits to all stakeholders tracking PV technology and investment trends for the next 5 years.
Understand fully the technical and logistical supply chains that determine the production and performance of solar modules, including all related factors impacting quality, reliability & bankability.


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Tag: Fresh Taiwan
Taiwanese Cultural and Creative Merchandise Heading to Ambiente, Fresh Taiwan Explores European Market with Creativity and Quality
The Fresh Taiwan Project launched by the Ministry of Culture will take 10 Taiwanese design brands to Germany to participate in the world’s largest “Ambiente Frankfurt” for the fourth time this February.
It may be surprising to know that image licensing appears all over our daily life. It is present on ordinary merchandise from bags, suitcases, leatherwear, shirts, pants, and shoes, to credit cards, postage stamps, coffee shops, and even aircraft fuselage. Brand licensing is currently one of the most powerful strategies for marketing and brand promotion.


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This morning I got an email from a Richmond resident regarding the process by which council is considering the proposal to Ban the Sale of Dogs in Storefronts. This is an excellent query, so here’s a little history and some information on current events.
Richmond’s petition to stop the sale of animals in pet stores was started during a RAPS board meeting, and was based on the need to stop the steady stream of dogs, cats, rabbits, guineas pigs and birds that were purchased at local pet stores and quickly surrendered to the Richmond Animal Shelter. A new balance between incoming animals and re-homed animals had to be established. Hence, the need to stop retail sales of animals. The petition has been circulated by volunteers and by the BC SPCA.
In 2009, Councilmen Ken Johnston brought forth a proposal to Richmond’s council to Ban the Sale of Dogs in Storefronts. That proposal was considered during the March 2 General Purposes Committee meeting. See minutes here.
During that meeting, committee members asked staff to research items further, but as of Sept. 1, this issue has not been put on the General Purpose Committee agenda. We are encouraging council to put this issue on the Oct. 4th General Purposes Committee agenda.


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Stores 'fixed sports bra prices'
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has accused three major department stores of colluding with a manufacturer to fix the price of sports bras.
The agency said Debenhams, John Lewis and House of Fraser agreed to set the prices of the Shock Absorber range of bras, made by DB Apparel UK.
The anti-competitive agreements were made from 2008 to 2011, the OFT said.
DB Apparel rejected the OFT allegations while the retailers said they were confident they had not broken the law.
"We have been transparent with UK authorities since the beginning of this process and will continue to defend ourselves vigorously in this investigation," a DB Apparel spokesperson said.
At the time covered by the investigation, the Shock Absorber range accounted for 15% of the sports bra market.
The alleged agreements applied on a nationwide basis to a number of products within the Shock Absorber range, the OFT said.
The manufacturer and department stores are accused of retail price maintenance - where the supplier specifies a price for their product, and the retailer agrees to it.
A House of Fraser spokesperson said: "We are co-operating fully with the Office of Fair Trading and the ongoing investigation and will respond accordingly."
"We are confident that we have been operating within all laws and regulations and are very supportive of any initiative which ensures pricing policies are fair for our customers."
A John Lewis spokesperson said: "John Lewis always strives to operate within the law and comply with regulations. We are fully cooperating with the OFT and will respond in due course."
A Debenhams spokesperson said: "Debenhams plc disputes these provisional findings of the OFT but is not in a position to comment further at this stage. The matter is being dealt with by its external lawyers."
The OFT said the agreements had the aim of increasing the prices of Shock Absorber bras in each of the three department stores.
"The OFT takes allegations of price-fixing seriously," said Ann Pope, senior director of services, infrastructure and public markets at the OFT.
"Resale price maintenance limits competition between retailers and can lead to consumers paying higher price.
"No assumption should be made at this stage that there has been an infringement of competition law. We will carefully consider the parties' representations... before deciding whether competition law has in fact been infringed."


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On Friday, fashion group FNG officially filed the books of twenty companies before the Mechelen corporate court. According to the company itself, banks eventually pulled the plug on the bank by claiming outstanding loans and blocking bank accounts.
ALSO READ. Fashion group FNG files for bankruptcy: “1,300 Belgian employees affected”
CEO Paul Lembrechts announced on Friday that FNG will no longer be able to pay wages from 1 August, Christian union ACV Puls reports on Saturday. Lembrechts says he is shocked by the unseen aggressive démarches of the banks. They make it particularly difficult to ensure continuity in the Belgian retail chains, ”the union writes in a press release.
According to Lembrechts, this is a problem for this weekend. “Wages for July were paid on the 25th when we still had access to our bank accounts. We no longer have that access, so we as management can no longer guarantee payment. The banks, which are currently the economic owners of the companies, have informed us on Friday afternoon that they do not want to guarantee wages. We communicated that to the employees. ”
On Monday morning, the corporate court will probably confirm the bankruptcy of the companies. “At that time, a trustee in bankruptcy will be appointed, who will in turn discuss the wages with the banks,” says Lembrechts. “But there is a problem for this first sales weekend.”