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Audio expert Harman is getting into the autonomous car game. Continue Reading...
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BMW will have self-driving cars on the road this year. Continue Reading...
The car is apparently quicker than a Tesla Model S P100D in Ludicrous Mode. Continue Reading...
Toyota will showcase a new concept vehicle at the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Continue Reading...
CES has essentially become another full-fledged auto show, with automakers from all over the world displaying the latest technology they have to offer. Continue Reading...
Automakers have been becoming increasingly involved with CES over that past few years. What gives? Continue Reading...
Audi is showing off its high-tech future with a sophisticated new interior that sports responsive screens that recognize gestures like a tablet or smartphone. Continue Reading...
This van is retro and high-tech at the same time. Continue Reading...
Drive Wise is the new sub brand that describes Kia’s upcoming semi-autonomous driving systems. Continue Reading...
BMW rolled out two different i8 concepts along with an i3 and more to show off its latest technology at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show. Continue Reading...
This seemingly far-fetched 1,000-hp electric supercar concept is putting the industry on notice. Continue Reading...
Giving us a glimpse at the future, Harman revealed numerous cutting-edge technologies at CES. Continue Reading...
The company claims the car outputs 1,000 hp and can get from zero to 60 mph in under three seconds. Continue Reading...
Volkswagen has released a short teaser video for its upcoming concept that will debut at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show. Continue Reading...
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is adding to its suite of Uconnect Access apps. Continue Reading...
The second-generation Chevrolet Volt has broken cover ahead of its official reveal at the Detroit Auto Show later this month. Continue Reading...
Hyundai is set to debut a new smartwatch app at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Continue Reading...
Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche will unveil a new concept car on Monday, January 5, 2015 in Las Vegas during the Consumer Electronics Show. Continue Reading...
At the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kia previewed a pair of concepts that showcase the brand’s next-generation telematics and infotainment systems. Continue Reading...
Volvo is showing off its new, cloud-based Sensus Connect system at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show. Continue Reading...
Audi is showing off the interior for its new TT model at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Continue Reading...
The laser headlights featured on Audi’s latest Sport Quattro concept car on display in Las Vegas will reach production vehicles. Continue Reading...
At the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Toyota not only had its FCV concept on display, but brought along a prototype fuel-cell vehicle that has been delivering a driving range of 300 miles. Continue Reading...
Ford’s latest concept car wants to literally go off the grid and it’s using solar panels to do so. Continue Reading...


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Economists Suggest Possibility of Bank of Canada Rate Hike this Week
Date: June 5, 2023
Economists are contemplating the likelihood of a potential rate hike by the Bank of Canada this week, signaling a shift in the country’s monetary policy. As the nation strives to navigate a recovering economy amid inflation concerns, analysts are closely monitoring the central bank’s next steps.
Potential Rate Hike
In light of Canada’s economic recovery gaining momentum, experts are speculating that the Bank of Canada may opt to increase interest rates to manage inflationary pressures. While no official announcement has been made, economists are examining the factors that could influence such a decision.
A potential rate hike would have far-reaching implications for the Canadian economy. On one hand, it could help alleviate inflationary pressures by curbing excessive borrowing and spending. Conversely, it may also impact consumers and businesses, potentially leading to increased borrowing costs and a slowdown in economic activity.
Factors Influencing Decision
Factors that could influence the Bank of Canada’s decision include inflation data, employment figures, and the overall health of the Canadian economy. If the central bank determines that the economy can withstand a rate hike without derailing the recovery, it may choose to implement the adjustment.
Central Bank’s Approach
However, it is important to note that any decision by the Bank of Canada is based on a thorough analysis of numerous economic indicators and is not taken lightly. The central bank aims to strike a delicate balance between managing inflation and fostering sustainable economic growth.
As economists eagerly await the Bank of Canada’s decision, it is important to remember that any rate hike would be part of a larger strategy to ensure economic stability in the face of evolving market conditions. Ultimately, the central bank’s actions will reflect its commitment to steering the Canadian economy on a path of sustained growth and stability.

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Perspectives on Privacy, Cybersecurity & Data Protection
259 total results. Page 1 of 11.
SCOTUS: Accessing Private Database for Improper Purpose Not Violation of Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.
Headlines that Matter for Privacy and Data Security
Although the Connecticut legislature was not successful in passing a privacy law similar to those passed in California, Colorado and Virginia, on June 24, 2021, the “Act Incentivizing The Adoption Of Cybersecurity Standards For Businesses” (Public Act No. 21-119 ) (“Cybersecurity Standards Act”)
Colorado Privacy Act: Colorado Joins California and Virginia by Passing the Third State Privacy Law in the US
Colorado passes its own omnibus state privacy law. Although there are overlaps with the California and Virginia privacy laws, the Colorado Privacy Act has its own distinctions and variations, namely a longer cure period and an explicit ban on consent obtained through dark patterns.
Crippling data breaches and sophisticated ransomware attacks are increasingly common threats to modern businesses. Ransomware attacks can not only target confidential company data and data collected from customers but employee data as well.
The legislation updates the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) by prohibiting internet companies from collecting personal information from anyone 13- to 15-years old without the user’s consent
While California is the vanguard for state privacy laws, several states are considering bills (and Virginia passed a law) that are similar to the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) requiring organizations to offer and honor customer privacy choices.
In April 2021, the Second Circuit issued a decision recognizing an increased risk of future, unrealized identity theft or fraud as a basis for establishing Article III standing.
Join Jeff Blake, Managing Partner of Federal Compliance Solutions, Rick Moore, Managing Partner of Federal Compliance Solutions, and Stephanie Trunk, Health Care Partner at Arent Fox, for a Lunch & Learn
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) requires that the Attorney General establishes a recognizable and uniform opt-out logo or button to promote consumer awareness of the opportunity to opt-out of the sale of personal information.
2021 is off to a strong start in privacy legislation with Virginia passing the second state comprehensive consumer privacy law in the US.
Tides of change in the digital advertising and regulatory landscape over the last few years have recently ushered in an increasingly likely future without third-party cookies.
According to the Council of the European Union, there are plans to move forward with replacing the Cookie Directive with the ePrivacy Regulation.
Changes to Stark and Anti-Kickback Regulations Address Technology Advances, Tighten Rules for EHR Contributions, and Promote Cybersecurity
Fraud and abuse regulations have been adapted to meet today’s technology for electronic data, promoting cooperation among health care providers for the exchange of health information and the protection of such information from cyberattacks.
Class Actions Quarterly Update: Biometric Privacy Claims Not Barred by Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act
Class actions brought under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) continue to trend upward in favor of plaintiffs.
The DCIA was introduced on November 17, 2020, to replace Canada’s current national privacy law for the private sector, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced a settlement with Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (Zoom) after allegations that Zoom misled users through deceptive and unfair practices that made users believe their communications were more secure than they actually were.
The CPRA, also referred to as CCPA 2.0, is a more robust version of the CCPA. The original drafter of the CCPA put CPRA on the ballot to amend and bolster key provisions in the CCPA.
Last week, the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) issued a report about the July 2020 Twitter Hack titled “Report on Investigation of Twitter’s July 15, 2020, Cybersecurity Incident and the Implications for Election Security” (Twitter Report).
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is the landmark privacy law in the US that formally went into effect this year and provides California residents with various rights regarding the collection, use, and sharing of their personal information.


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Paglalagay ng SRP sa bigas, pinag-aaralan na ng DTI
by admin | Posted on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2014
Bigas na tinitinda sa isang pamilihan (UNTV News)
MANILA, Philippines — Hinihintay na lamang ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) ang approval ni Pangulong Aquino sa paglalagay ng suggested retail price sa bigas.
Ayon sa DTI, ito ang magsisilbing gabay ng mga nagtitida at mamimili kung magkano ang dapat na presyo ng bigas.
Suportado rin ito ni Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization (PAFSAM) Sec. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.
“Ang maganda po kasi sa SRP, particularly for agricultural product, it works as a guide to everybody supply chain from manufacturers down to retailers”, pahayag ni DTI Usec. Victorio Dimagiba.
“Makakatulong ito para mabalanse pa natin yung interes ng consumer at yung ating mga retailers & traders”, ani PAFSAM Sec. Pangilinan.
Ngunit kung si Bayan Muna Representative Neri Colmenares ang tatanungin, mas makabubuti ang pagtatakda ng price ceiling dahil may kamay ito para parusahan ang mga nagsasamantala.
“Ang kinaiba lang ng price ceiling at ng SRP, dito sa price ceiling kapag umakyat ka sa price ceiling, kulong ka. May kaso ka whereas pag akyat mo sa SRP imbestigahan ka lang.”
Hindi naman naniniwala ang mambabatas na lean months o panahon ng anihan ang dahilan kaya’t mataas ang presyo ng bigas dahil base sa nakuha nitong record mula sa Department of Agriculture, sapat pa ang supply ng bigas.
Maging ang DTI ay hindi rin kumbinsido sa dahilang ito.
“When they use lean months, we also challenge that kasi yung lean months, padating palang yun. Hindi pwedeng gamitin iyan. Magagamit yun after the lean months”, paliwanag ni Dimagiba.
“Tumaas ang production, tumaas ang inventory so may supply. Kaya I tend to believe, yung analysis of other that there’s rice manipulation, may nagho-hoard despite na presence of supply”, ani Colmenares.
Nangangamba ang kongresista na kung hindi makokontrol ng gobyerno ang pagtaas ng presyo ng bigas ay aakyat pa ito sa mahigit ₱50 per kilo lalo na kung matuloy ang El Niño phenomenon.
Samantala, plano namang bilhin ng NFA ang may 50k mt na smuggled rice. Nakumpiska ito ng BOC mahigit sa 10 buwan na ang nakararaan lulan ng mahigit sa 2 libong container van.
“Sa halip na ibang bansa ang makikinabang sa pagbili ng bigas ay bilhin nalng natin sa ating sariling ahensya”, saad ni Pangilinan. (Rey Pelayo, UNTV News)
by Marje Pelayo | Posted on Friday, July 19th, 2019
MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has intercepted a number of pork products from Hong Kong and China at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in between June 19 to 28.
The items didn’t have sanitary and phytosanitary clearances from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and could have been infested by the deadly pig virus African Swine Fever (ASF).
China is one of the 19 countries from where entry of pork and pork-based products are banned.
From a total of 400 samples that BAI examined, 34 tested positive of ASF and these products could have caused infestation in the country’s hog industry if they were not intercepted.
Germany was the latest addition to the list of countries where entry of pork products to the Philippines was banned.
Though there were no reports yet of ASF-infestation in Germany, the Philippines included it in the list after a German company exported pork products to the Philippines along with some 250 kilograms of pork from ASF-hit Poland.
The said shipment was intercepted in Cebu on June 27 which included 27 boxes of pork items from Poland.
That incident, according to Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol, was a clear violation of the country’s Quarantine Law thus resulting in the ban of pork products from Germany.
“Nakikiusap ako.(‘Im appealing to you) Please understand, these are extraordinary times. We cannot take the risk,” Secretary Piñol said.
“Kasi tingnan mo, Germany napaka-respectable na bansa nyan. It’s export country known for its high standards, nasingitan tayo, (You see Germany is a highly respected country. It’s exports are known for its high standards but some banned (pork) slip past their screening,)” he explained.
Piñol stressed that ASF infestation would compromise the country’s P260-B worth of hog industry.
Some of the Philippines’ neighboring countries have already declared an outbreak of ASF such as Vietnam and Cambodia.
In May, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked store owners to self-recall pork products from China that covers those manufactured since the start of the import ban.
Still, Piñol assures the Philippines’ hog industry remains ASF free. – with reports from Rey Pelayo
by Robie de Guzman | Posted on Friday, July 19th, 2019
MANILA, Philippines – Officials and employees of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) tagged in corruption allegations will face administrative charges before the Office of the Ombudsman, Malacañang said on Friday.
“Administrative charges over allegations of corrupt practices in office will be filed against them before the Office of the Ombudsman, unless they opt to resign, and the prosecutors will ask for their immediate suspension,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
On Thursday night, President Rodrigo Duterte met with dozens of customs personnel in Malacañang.
Panelo said Duterte told them they will be given their day in court as part of the due process.
“The President has been forthright in telling these customs officials and employees that corruption has no place under his watch,” Panelo said.
“PRRD [President Rodrigo Roa Duterte] assured them that he would not begrudge them if they would avail of legal remedies to question their removal from office,” he added.
The president, Panelo said, “thanked them for accepting his invitation to meet him in Malacañang, which according to him, showed they still have respect for him.”
While waiting for the formal filing of charges, the said customs officials will be “in floating status without authority to act on official matters.”
The chief executive earlier ordered for the freezing of several high-ranking customs officials who were accused of corrupt practices in office.
“Let this serve as a reminder to all those officials or employees in the government that they cannot escape liability or accountability for their acts of corruption under the Duterte administration,” Panelo said. (with details from Rosalie Coz)
by Maris Federez | Posted on Tuesday, July 16th, 2019
Several business entrepreneurs on Tuesday (July 16) have joined the National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Summit conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
The summit aims to help small entrepreneurs on their businesses and to be “Smarter Entrepreneurs”.
The latest record of the DTI shows that the country has produced more than 900,000 MSMEs which have provided jobs to up to five million Filipinos.
President Rodrigo Duterte’s common-law wife Cielito “Honeylet” Avanceña graced the event and reminisced the time when she was still a struggling businesswoman.
“I’ve been with a donut company — franchisee of a donut company for almost 22 years. Kahit na ho pakonti-konti ‘yan [Even though it was just small], 22 years (have) provided you of, you know, a decent living. Mabili mo ‘yung gusto ng anak mo. Makapaglagay ka ng pagkain sa lamesa sa pamilya mo [You can buy what your child wants. You can put food on the table for your family],” Avanceña recalled.
“I don’t have to call my husband: ‘OK, can I buy this?’,” she added.
Meanwhile, the DTI hopes that the implementation of Republic Act 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business Act will help boost the small entrepreneurs in the country.
The President signed the law last year with the aim of curbing red tape in the bureaucracy.
Under the law, simple business applications must be processed within three days. A complex business application must be completed in seven days, while applications which are rather technical should only take 20-days processing time.
The law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) is expected to be signed in the very near future.
DTI chief, Sec. Ramon Lopez, has also urged the public to report to the anti-red tape authority any government personnel who will violate the said law.
“Assured ‘yung mga kababayan natin na matatakbuhan sila kapag nade-delay ‘yung mga application nila. So, pwede silang mag-complain [Our countrymen are assured that they have someone to go to when there is a delay on their application. They can file a complaint],” said Lopez.
The agency is also mulling over coming up with a “One Step” Business Registration to ease the processing of applications for a license to operate. (with reports from Harlene Delgado) /mbmf
UNTV is a major TV broadcast network with 24-hour programming. An Ultra High Frequency station with strong brand content that appeal to everyone, UNTV is one of the most trusted and successful Philippine networks that guarantees wholesome and quality viewing experience.


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‘Drones can help decarbonise the logistics industry’
Demand for drones is peaking in Africa and no one understands this better than Tom Plümmer, Founder & CEO of Wingcopter, a German drone delivery...
Astral, Reliable to work on automated aircraft for improving safety
Reliable is working with FAA to certify its automation system on Cessna 208 Caravan


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China Intl Cartoon & Animation Festival opens
The 18th China International Cartoon & Animation Festival opened in Xiaoshan district, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province on Nov 24 and will run until Nov 27.
The festival will feature 24 activities, including exhibitions, forums, match-making meetings, and competitions.
The highlights of the event include fashion shows of traditional Chinese clothing, the participation of ANIPLEX, TV TOKYO, and Walt Disney, and anime products related to the upcoming Asian Games Hangzhou.
At the opening ceremony, local authorities released a report containing suggestions regarding the development of Hangzhou's cartoon, animation, and esports industries. They also proposed that the combined annual revenue of the three sectors should amount to 60 billion yuan ($8.39 billion) in 2025.
November 25, 2022
November 24, 2022


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This past year Portland Headquartered Ad Agency Weiden + Kennedy had a realization. They needed to be better connected to innovative tech startups. So what did they do? They freed up some office space and started their own startup incubator called the Portland Incubator Experiment. With the help of several brands including Coca-Cola, Target, and Google, W+K invited entrepreneurs to apply for a three month stay along with $18,000 and access to some top mentors in the startup world. Today at Portland’s Bagdad Theater, the first round of companies will present their ideas and products to potential investors, media, and the public.
One such company is called MoPix. As CEO Ryan Stoner puts it MoPix is “creating the “post DVD” experience by enabling anyone with film or video content to brand, sell and distribute it in a social-enriched digital marketplace.” Ryan and his partners (including Portland native Slater Dixon) are looking to capitalize on the yet to be determined future of digital distribution. What MoPix brings is an agnostic digital outlet for indie film makers. It is no secret that the DVD platform is slowly dwindling. Sales are down and with traditional DVD storefront stores like Hollywood Video and Blockbuster becoming less common (if not extinct), a key revenue stream for content producers is literally evaporating before our eyes. Will Digital be the answer? Or are we as former NBC Exec Jeff Zucker said “trading analog dollars in for digital pennies”? It’s hard to say but I am encouraged to see that MoPix is looking to tackle this challenge.
Stay tuned for more exciting developments out of PIE, as several companies under the banner are gaining a lot of buzz. Word is that the next application round could come
as early as the spring. (UPDATE- at the event it was announced that PIE will begin accepting applications for the next class early in February)


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Tech Wrap: Amazon Prime Video gets Party Watch feature, Vivo Y51 launched
More tech news includes Apple Music support arriving on Nest smart speakers and Google caught spying on employees.
It was an interesting day in the world of technology today. On one hand, Amazon India released a new Watch Party feature on Prime Video. On the other hand, Google released Apple Music support on Nest smart speakers.
In addition to that Vivo launched the Vivo Y51 smartphone in India.
So, here's what made a buzz in the tech world today:
Amazon Prime Video gets Party Watch feature
Amazon India today Watch Party feature on Prime Video. This feature enables users to watch up to 100 Prime users to watch movies and TV shows together.
Vivo Y51 launched in India
Vivo today launched the Vivo Y51 smartphone in India. Priced at ₹17,990, the phone will be available in Titanium Sapphire and Crystal Symphony colour options.
Apple Music support arrives on Nest smart speakers
Google today rolled out support for Apple Music on Nest smart speakers. This feature will be available in the US, UK, Germany, France and Japan starting today. It will be available in other countries later.
Google reportedly spied on employees, fire them unlawfully
National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has accused Google of spying on its employees. As per the complaint, two employees named Laurence Berland and Kathryn Spiers, who were fired back in 2019 in connection with employee activism, were being spied on by the company.
iOS 14.2 drains iPhone battery faster
Apple recently released iOS 14.2 on iPhones. Now, several iPhone users have reported an issue wherein the battery life of their iPhones was depleting way faster than before. Here are all the details.


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The first announcement of Microsoft's delving into TV shows came nearly a year ago, and starting this June you'll be able to watch them. Finally. These shows, which will only be available on Xbox One, Xbox 360, and other Microsoft devices (but probably not your Zune), will be more than just the traditional sit-back-and-watch shows, as Microsoft is building interactive content into each. The first 12 committed and in-development projects were announced today.
Nancy Tellem, President of Xbox Entertainment Studios and former president of CBS Television Studios, said:
"I know full well from my years spent at traditional TV networks that creating a lineup of hit shows isn't easy. It's the beginning of a long journey, but we're incredibly excited to be on our way."
On the committed projects side of the list we find the announced-a-year-ago Halo TV series, which is being produced by none other than Steven Spielberg, plus a Halo digital feature produced by Ridley Scott and David Zucker, and directed by Sergio Mimica-Gezzan. "Every Street United" focuses on soccer players Thierry Henry's and Edgar Davids's search for the world's "most gifted and undiscovered street stars scouted across eight countries." On the drama side, "Humans" is set in "a parallel present" where a family bonds with a discarded robot servant. And Bonnaroo is… Bonnaroo.
Microsoft has also committed to six documentaries under the "Signal to Noise" title, including "Atari: Game Over" about the failure of the E.T. video game and the ongoing dig to recover copies of the game from a New Mexico landfill, When it comes to projects in development, Xbox Entertainment Studios is looking at a series based on Deadlands, a "hybrid stop-motion show" called "Extraordinary Believers" from the creators of Robot Chicken, a show about a former bomb tech and shark attack survivor who helps people "risk their lives to make the world a better place", a detective thriller series based on Warren Ellis's "Gun Machine" novel, a series based on the "Winderworld" series of graphic novels, and an improv comedy show from the likes of Sarah Silverman, Michael Cera, Tim and Eric, and Reggie Watts.
Source: Xbox Wire
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PS5 games prices are higher than Xbox — but is that a good thing?
Sony's PlayStation 5 reveal came with some big caveats, and one of the most overlooked ones is the fact that games will be more expensive, seemingly across the board. Should Microsoft and Xbox jump on that train as well?
Review: Gigabyte's Z490 AORUS ULTRA is a gorgeous Intel motherboard
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You can get the Windows 10 October 2020 update early – here's how
In this guide, we'll show you the steps to upgrade your computer to the final release of the Windows 10 October 2020 Update before it's officially available to everyone.
Up your Fortnite game with one of these great headsets
So you want to up your Fortnite game, do you? One of the easiest fixes is getting yourself a good headset. Whether you play on PC, console or mobile, there's something here for you.


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The pandemic and subsequent recovery battered the global travel industry. At first, cratering demand led to mass layoffs among cruise lines, airlines, hotel groups and other enterprises dependent on travel. Once health risks receded, there was a sudden increase in demand, catching many travel businesses off guard. Supply chain kinks, soaring energy costs, rampant delays and understaffing led to months of traveler misery that has only recently eased up.
Despite the rocky road, travelers apparently will not be deterred from their trips, according to newly released data charting the surprising strength of the travel industry at the start of summer.
Travel exceeds pre-pandemic high
Travel industry news site Skift recently released their June 2023 Travel Health Index report, which reveals global travel fully rebounded and further exceeded pre-pandemic strength compared to just a few months ago.
The Travel Health Index measures the travel industry’s performance using 84 travel indicators with data from 22 partners. As of June 2023, the global index sat at 104, an increase of 4% over the 100 peak pre-pandemic rating from April 2019. It also marks a 1% increase from the May 2023 index rating of 103.
At its lowest point during the early days of the pandemic, the Travel Health Index dipped to 20 in April 2020, a sign travel performance had sunk to 20% of April 2019 levels. Three years later, travel has fully rebounded and continually set new records across all global regions.
Referencing the strength of the U.S. travel market, Skift research analyst Saniya Zanpure tells Kiplinger they do not see travel performance slowing down in the U.S. "Since airlines, vacation rentals, and hotels in the U.S. outperformed 2019 performance levels, the travel index for the country in June 2023 is 8 percentage points above June 2019," she said.
Global travel gains aren't equal
The biggest winner of the global travel recovery is Latin America, the region that's proved the most resilient through the pandemic. By early 2022, Mexico’s impressive travel rebound accelerated, and the larger region began to exceed pre-pandemic performance. Latin America's travel index performance for June clocks in at a globe-leading 110. All other regions (and 17 out of 22 countries tracked in the report) had recovered or exceeded their pre-pandemic travel levels, albeit with less impressive marks.
The biggest outliers among the developed tourist destinations are Russia (67.9) and Hong Kong (69.7), whose continually lagging performance is dragging down the global index – and their respective regions. Russia's deteriorated tourism picture is likely a product of the ongoing war in Ukraine, resulting in extensive "do not travel" advisories and departing businesses. Meanwhile, factors including exceedingly harsh pandemic restrictions and democratic backsliding can be counted toward Hong Kong's travel woes.
The global car rental industry also diverged from other travel sector industries , receding to 108 in June from a record April mark of 112. Only North America increased car rental performance month over month. Still, despite the measurable dip since April, global car rental performance remains 8 percentage points above pre-pandemic levels.
How travelers can save in a pricey recovery
Travel is hotter than ever, as millions fully exit their pandemic hesitance to embrace tourism and business travel. NerdWallet's Travel Price Index reports that the overall cost of travel has grown 14% since the June 2019 pre-pandemic travel season.
Use the following tips from Kiplinger contributor Becca van Sambeck to save money while planning a vacation despite budget-busting price increases:
- Plan your trip early, no later than 28 days before departure
- Consider flexibility on location to maximize savings
- Consider camping and cabins instead of hotels
- Travel with a group to lower the average cost of lodging
- Use those credit card points and airline miles
Ben Demers manages digital content and engagement at Kiplinger, informing readers through a range of personal finance articles, e-newsletters, social media, syndicated content, and videos. He is passionate about helping people lead their best lives through sound financial behavior, particularly saving money at home and avoiding scams and identity theft. Ben graduated with an M.P.S. from Georgetown University and a B.A. from Vassar College. He joined Kiplinger in May 2017.
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Stock Market Today: Dow Slips After Travelers' Earnings Miss
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It would be easy to see Namibia's ascent as a run of great PR, but the country has been playing a long game to attract visitors from around the world. And now there's both more access and new product to match rising demand from travelers who crave isolation — not to mention social media cred.
Colin Nagy, a marketing strategist, writes this opinion column for Skift on hospitality and business travel. On Experience dissects customer-centric experiences and innovation across the luxury sector, hotels, aviation, and beyond. He also covers the convergence of conservation and hospitality.
You can read all of his writing here.
Namibia has had an incredible run in the press recently. There have been deep-dive features in glossy consumer travel magazines, a callout by the Wall Street Journal as a top-10 intriguing destination for 2019, lots of influencer chatter, and a smattering of new openings from established safari operators like Natural Selection and Wilderness Safaris, among others.
At a quick glance, it looks like the tourism board is surfing some nice waves and benefiting from the sometimes-fickle preferences of global-travel opinion makers. But the desert country, located on the southwestern coast of Africa, has been successfully setting the stage for some time, and now its ascent is the direct result of these efforts. Moreover, Namibia’s appeal sits squarely within the trend of today’s travelers wanting not only to break away from well-trodden destinations but also seek out visually unique natural landscapes.
Traditionally a destination for Europeans
First off, the demographics of travelers visiting Namibia have been changing. What was previously a destination frequented primarily by Europeans is now finding favor with Americans and travelers from farther afield.
Today demand is growing. The Namibia Tourism Board reported a 2.2 percent growth year-over-year from 2017 to 2018 (1.57 million visitors to 1.6 million visitors last year). That is on top of 2.1 percent growth year-over-year from 2016 to 2017. According to Ryan Brown, head of marketing for Go2Africa, “They thought they would get to 1.7 million by 2020 and with all the momentum, hot new openings, etc., they should beat that easily.” By comparison, its neighbor, South Africa, saw tourism growth of 1.7 percent, according to South Africa tourism’s insights and analytics team, while Botswana’s tourism sector grew 3.4 percent year-over-year in 2018, according to a report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
Namibia is not a new destination on the tourist radar by any means. It’s simply finding wide new audiences. And it isn’t just the cheap and cheerful European getaway.
“Previously the average tourist was a British camper hire, and the self-sufficient Germans and South Africans — the low-end, self-drive market which has been the bread-and-butter of Namibia,” said Suzanne Bayly-Coupe, owner of Classic Portfolio, a collection of hotels and lodges in Africa. “Access has previously pushed out the high-end travelers — but now there are more fly-in options available. Having good regional air access has substantially improved the desire to go there.”
The offerings now in terms of lodges, including the striking Hoanib Valley Camp and other developments like Shipwreck Lodge, have attracted a new set of luxury travelers and brought the destination onto more upmarket radars. And, as with anything in Africa, the ability to access areas easily helps a lot in unlocking tourism dollars.
Isolation and An otherworldly feel
Many are characterizing Namibia as the Arctic of Africa. The country is largely uninhabited, but instead of vast swaths of ice, its jaw-dropping desert landscapes are attracting more and more travelers. The desert terrain is compelling for those whose Instagram feeds are filled with more traditional safari photos and want something differentiated as they travel. In fact, the rise of social media has undoubtedly been a contributing factor in Namibia’s popularity. At the same time, the feeling of solitude and space that its scenery evokes — of true isolation — appeals to current definitions of luxury travel, as previously reported by Skift.
“What makes Namibia very special is the wide-open spaces and the fact that a country three times the size of France has a mere 2.2 million people, most of whom live in cities and the far north and northeast,” said Stephan Bruckner, group managing director of Wolwedans, a collection of camps and lodges in Namibia. “So 80 percent of the country has virtually no inhabitants. Landscapes are pristine, largely clean, and Namibia is politically safe. It’s one of the least populated countries in the world, which is special in today’s day and age.”
Victoria Alexander, the founder of Lux Perpetua who designs trips for the highly mobile, experience-driven, and travel-jaded, told me the locale has an immediate appeal for her audience and that social capital plays a role: “Everyone’s looking for something otherworldly, something that hasn’t been run into the ground. The interest we’ve seen from Namibia is surging, and our first forays into trips there have been incredibly well-received. It is like no other place.”
The country isn’t usually the jumping-off point for someone’s first trip to Africa but rather a destination that comes up in the planning process once someone has ticked off some of the other boxes of more traditional destinations and experiences. “Namibia is typically a classic second or third safari destination,” confirmed Bruckner.
Playing the long game
In July 2008 the Millennium Challenge Corporation signed a five-year, $304.5 million compact with the government of Namibia to reduce poverty and accelerate economic growth. The windfall was spent wisely, with a lot of emphasis, according to multiple tour operators working in the country, on promoting the destination in North America in a bid to broaden its appeal beyond the aforementioned European set.
The strategy was incredibly successful, according to Jennifer Lalley, one of the founders of Natural Selection. “It resulted in increased visibility, but there was an initial problem of increased demand but not enough supply,” she said. Now, as more air routes are coming into Africa, coupled with large, capital-intensive lodge investments, the pieces are coming together. The experience is starting to match up with the marketing of the destination. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s just a luxury destination, replete with the accouterments one would find in other destinations in Africa. The audience here now is instead coming to be part of frontier trends — and are perhaps willing to overlook the lack of coddling and highly refined hospitality that you’d find in other more established destinations.
“The interesting thing with Namibia is it is more adventure focused, and less game focused,” says Teresa Sullivan, co-founder of Mango Safaris. She suggested that Mango’s trips appeal to her clients who want to branch out from the more typical safari, those not wanting the Disney-moment spot. Also, the country allows for a variety of experiences; some visitors fly for some of the duration of their stay and drive the rest.
And while luxury camps continue to spring up around Africa, Namibia also offers opportunities for tourists seeking more entry-level prices. As travelers increasingly look for different experiences, as seen with the growing popularity of Rwanda and the Congo, Bayly-Coupe asserts that the country is “completely accessible, moderately priced,” citing some of the Wolwedans camps, which offer beautiful experiences at reasonable rates.
While Namibia may still have rough edges — Bayly-Coupe says some elements of the country are “like going back into the 1980s, all a bit naive, charming, backwards” — there’s still an opportunity for safe adventures in stunning surroundings, with the possibility of uncovering hidden gems that have not yet been discovered. And as the rest of Africa comes online for a wider range of travelers, the long game that Namibia has played is starting to pay off.
Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch
Photo credit: Hoanib Valley Camp at dusk in Namibia. The country is attracting a wider audience, including high-end travelers seeking the ultimate luxury: solitude. Hoanib Valley Camp


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Apple said Wednesday it was delaying the worldwide release of the iPad for a month because of heavy U.S. demand.
“Faced with this surprisingly strong U.S. demand, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the international launch of iPad by one month, until the end of May,” Apple said in a statement.
“Although we have delivered more than 500,000 iPads during its first week, demand is far higher than we predicted and will likely continue to exceed our supply over the next several weeks.
“We will announce international pricing and begin taking online pre-orders on Monday, May 10,” the California-based company said.
“We know that many international customers waiting to buy an iPad will be disappointed by this news, but we hope they will be pleased to learn the reason — the iPad is a runaway success in the U.S. thus far.”
The new tablet computer from Apple went on sale in the U.S. on April 3.


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The CEO of autonomous vehicle company Cruise indicated on Wednesday the General Motors subsidiary aims to offer shared rides “at a radically lower cost” as part of a bid to move eventually “beyond the car.”
Dan Ammann, former president of the biggest Detroit automaker and now the CEO of Cruise, wrote in a blog post that to make order-of-magnitude — rather than incremental — enhancements in transportation, “we need to build alternatives that are superior to the status quo in every way.” The post was titled “We Need to Move Beyond the Car.”
Cruise’s mission, he stated, is to decrease congestion by making shared rides more compelling by offering an awesome experience “at a radically lower cost.” Only then, “will we truly move beyond the car to the transportation system that we deserve.”
Ammann did not detail on Cruise’s plans in his post.
Cruise on Wednesday stated it would offer more information at an event in San Francisco on January 21.
Cruise earlier announced a partnership with Honda Motor to create a purpose-built autonomous vehicle for use in ride-sharing. Honda has made a small investment in Cruise.
Cruise was valued at $19 billion in May following a $1.15 billion round of investment. General Motor’s market capitalization stood at $50 billion on Wednesday.
Previously this year, Ammann scrapped the goal of releasing a Cruise robotaxi service by the end of this year.
General Motors competitor Ford Motor and its development partner Argo AI are preparing to start self-driving vehicles in commercial ride-sharing and delivery services in the United States in 2021.
Alphabet Inc’s Waymo is currently providing ride-sharing services in Arizona in partnership with Lyft.


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Posted by Dan Malachowski, Product Marketing Manager (Search and Performance Media)
March has been a busy month for online privacy. The month started off with now-defunct Adzilla being sued in federal court for ISP-based (deep packet inspection) ad targeting. Adzilla is being sued for allegedly violating wiretapping laws by looking into the web packets of customers of Adzilla’s partner ISPs without the customers’ knowledge. The partner ISPs have also been named in the suit. Adzilla stopped U.S. operations in October 2008 but is being sued for the money the company made while engaged in these ad-targeting practices.
Obama named privacy advocate Jon Leibowitz head of the FTC. The tech-savvy Leibowitz is expected to scrutinize the online advertising industry and make sure ad companies are protecting consumer privacy. We’ll see if Liebowitz continues the FTC’s push for ad industry self-regulation or takes a more regulatory approach. In the meantime, Representative Rick Boucher (D-VA) is preparing a bill to regulate behavioral targeting. Privacy legislation has also been introduced, but not yet passed, in Massachusetts, New York and Connecticut.
Google made a splash with its beta launch of “interest-based” advertising on YouTube and the Google Content Network. The ads categorize Internet users based on interests (such as sports, music or pets) associated with the types of sites and pages the user visits. Users will not see interest-based ads for sensitive categories like health. The news was released on Google’s Public Policy blog by Google’s Deputy General Counsel, Nicole Wong. Wong stresses that the ads are transparent and provide consumers with an easy opt-out mechanism. Users have a say in the type of ads they see by using Google’s new Ads Preference Manager. With Ads Preference Manager, consumers can add/remove interest categories or opt-out of interest-based targeting completely. ClickZ’s Rebecca Lieb calls Google’s interest-based ads “a model of decorum and simplicity” and “just what the FTC ordered” regarding consumer protection and privacy.
In terms of industry self-regulation, the UK Interactive Advertising Bureau released its Good Practice Principles, the UK’s first self-regulatory guidelines for behavioral targeting. Wong notes that Google’s interest-based ads clearly adhere to these, and similar, industry guidelines. The UK guidelines highlight three main principles:
1. Notice– The ad company must inform the Internet user that data is being collected.
2. Choice– The consumer should be able to easily opt-out.
3. Education– The ad company must inform the consumer how their information is being used and how they can opt out.
The action around Internet privacy in March hasn’t indicated if the industry will be allowed to self-regulate or if legislation will come down. However, one thing is for sure- Internet privacy issues are center stage.


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Starbucks’ New Green Cup Sparks Controversy
- febbraio 11, 2016
- Life & Culture
- 0 Comments
In a hurry for the holidays, Starbucks raised eyebrows earlier this week when they brought back their holiday drink menu just three hours after Halloween ended.
Just a few days before that, an image of the company’s hotly-anticipated red holiday cups were leaked on the image sharing site, imgur.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — according to Starbucks, anyway.
Just a few hours after Halloween officially ended—and after the design of their new holiday red cups was leaked—the coffee chain announced that all their signature holiday drinks are returning to stores on November 1st. The six seasonal favorites include the Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, Eggnog Latte, Gingerbread Latte and the regular and skinny versions of the Peppermint Mocha. Starbucks is also making a few of the festive drinks available for customers at home with a line of grocery store products.
RELATED: The Return of Starbucks Holiday Red Cups Is Imminent—See the New Design
But those stopping by their local store will notice a new vessel for their holiday drinks. The company commissioned artist Shogo Ota to create a green cup with a sketch of more than 100 people drawn in one continuous stroke. While the cup is not a direct symbol of the holidays, it does have a very spirited message.
WATCH THIS: Sprinkles Founder Candace Nelson Talks About Friendship With BFF Reese Witherspoon
In September, Starbucks revealed the return of their cult-favorite Pumpkin Spice Latte and addition of the new Chile Mocha Latte—cocoa-infused steamed milk with espresso that is topped with a spice blend of ancho chili pepper, sea salt, cinnamon, paprika, cayenne chili pepper and sugar.
RELATED: Starbucks Just Upgraded the Pumpkin Spice Latte in a Major Way
Those looking for the classic red cups will have to wait till November 10, when they will be released, but in the meantime you can get a sneak peek of the new design here.


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Ford Motor Company this week announced the next phase of its Ford Smart Mobility plan.
Ford is moving from research to the start of implementation, including new strategic areas of focus, new pilot programs and new mobility product experiments.
Ford Smart Mobility is the company’s plan to deliver the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and big data.
The company introduced the plan in January.
“My great-grandfather helped put the world on wheels so everyone could enjoy the benefits of mobility,” said Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford. “Our vision today is to expand that same thinking using advanced technology and new business models, and addressing the mobility challenges people face around the world.”
Following six months of gathering data and consumer insights, Ford is honing in on two strategic areas: flexible use and ownership of vehicles and multimodal urban travel solutions.
“We now are moving from experimentation to implementation,” said Mark Fields, Ford CEO, speaking today at the annual Further with Ford trends conference in Palo Alto. “We have learned a lot in the past six months, and now are ready to put insights into action.”
Ford Motor Credit Company announced today Peer-2-Peer Car Sharing, a pilot program for select customers in six US cities and in London.
New findings from Penn Schoen Berland, an independent research company, show one third of Millennials in the United States are interested in renting out their own belongings as a way to supplement their income and that more than half of Millennials report being open to sharing rides with others.
Ford also recently announced GoDrive, an on-demand, public car-sharing pilot.
Ford also this week introduced a new electric bike and a prototype smartphone app that makes using the eBike even easier for urban commutes. The bike’s center frame assembly includes the motor and battery, while the front and rear assemblies and wheels can be configured for road, mountain or city riding. The bike folds and stores inside any Ford vehicle, where it can be charged while stowed.


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It comes shortly after The Romans parted ways with BrewDog, the brewer that has had a long-running feud with Diageo.
The agency is understood to have been given a wide-ranging comms remit, reporting to Diageo’s culture and entertainment team, led by Leila Fataar.
The agency was appointed after a competitive pitch and will work on the brand alongside ad agency Anomaly, which launched a campaign for Gordon’s in November under the tagline 'Shall we…?'.
In a joint statement, Romans founders Misha Dhanak and Joe Sinclair said: "The Gordon's brief presents a huge creative and cultural opportunity to differentiate an iconic household favourite amongst an increasingly diverse competitive set. Diageo’s commitment to creating conversations through Culture and Entertainment chimes closely with the very reason we set up The Romans."
A Diageo spokesperson confirmed the appointment.
The Romans and BrewDog parted ways at the start of this month, with the brewer moving its PR account back to Manifest.
BrewDog has had a feud with Diageo dating back to 2012 when the drinks giant blocked the Scottish craft brewer from winning an industry award. Diageo later apologised for its actions.
Last year BrewDog promised to "take revenge" on Diageo when it released a beer called Jet Black Heart, which mocked the famous Surfer ad for Diageo brand Guinness. The Romans did not work on that campaign, the agency said.


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Streets Of Rage 4 Release Date Announced
The developers of the fighting game (a game that focuses on hand-to-hand combat) Streets of Rage 4 posted a new trailer
and announced the release date. The video was published on April 17 on the YouTube channel of the French publisher Dotemu.
The game will appear in the Steam catalog on April 30, 2020. Its distinctive feature will be the Legacy Battle Mode, which introduces 4 characters from previous games in the series to Streets of Rage.
Interestingly, the release of the third part of Streets of Rage took place more than 25 years ago — March 17, 1994. In Japan, this game was known as Bare Knuckle III, it was released on the Sega Mega Drive console.


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Randall Castillo Ortega, a venerated figure in the logistics sector, has today revealed a comprehensive plan to integrate sustainability at the core of global supply chains. Determined to combat climate change, Castillo’s strategy focuses on introducing sustainable practices and technologies that aim to revolutionize the industry and contribute to a healthier planet.
Innovating for a Sustainable Supply Chain
Recognizing the significant environmental footprint of logistics and transportation, Castillo introduces an innovative approach that revolves around the use of renewable energy, the adoption of eco-friendly materials, and the implementation of waste-reduction techniques to minimize the industry’s carbon footprint.
Electrification and Renewable Energy Adoption
Central to Castillo’s strategy is the electrification of logistic fleets and the integration of renewable energy systems within supply chain operations. The goal is to shift away from fossil fuels and toward greener alternatives that promise reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.
Revamping Packaging and Materials
Castillo is setting new industry standards by prioritizing biodegradable and recyclable materials for packaging. This pivot reduces the environmental impact and aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainable products and practices.
Comprehensive Carbon Management
With an acute focus on sustainability, Castillo is enabling businesses to conduct detailed carbon footprint analyses. His systematic approach helps companies identify emission hotspots and implement strategies to lessen their environmental impact.
Forging Sustainable Alliances
Castillo actively seeks collaboration with global entities sharing a common vision for sustainability. These partnerships are crucial in driving industry-wide change and establishing a collective effort towards a more sustainable future.
Encouraging Sustainable Certification
By promoting the adoption of green certifications, Castillo’s initiatives reward companies that demonstrate environmental leadership. These certifications serve as a benchmark for sustainable practices and incentivize other businesses to follow suit.
Transparency in Sustainability Efforts
Castillo is a strong proponent of transparent sustainability reporting, which he believes is essential for corporate accountability and stakeholder trust. By setting clear reporting guidelines, he is fostering a culture of openness and responsibility within the logistics sector.


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Imagen | Daniel Horacio Agostini
In addition to seeing the latest wonders in the mobile world, at the MWC there will also be time for startups looking to attract future investors. Wednesday, March 4, will be the day for digital media to shine at 4YFN, with interesting lectures on the subject and a competition in which eight startups will be trying to prove they have the brightest idea.
Despite the crisis in traditional paperbacks, the world of journalism offers an attractive present and a promising future thanks to new digital media and new forms of storytelling—we are already more than familiar with concepts such as transmedia (developing a narrative across various platforms and formats) or brand journalism. Some of the sector’s towering figures will be present on Wednesday in Barcelona.
Probably one of the most anticipated conferences is the one to be hosted by the president of Vice, Andrew Creighton and its CEO, Hosi Simon. Together they will discuss this publication, available in 17 markets and being noted for its journalistic video production and topics focused on a young audience.
When talking about new media, we cannot ignore Fusion, a web targeted at a ‘millennial’ audience with a blend of pop culture and irony, very similar to Vice’s. Isaac Lee, CEO of the company, will be talking about this platform and new ways of journalism, in Barcelona.
While digital media means new media, it also means that traditional media is adapting to a new environment. An example of this is television. François Moreau de Saint-Martin, CEO of Viaccess-Orca, will run through what are, in his opinion, the seven best practices in Internet and mobile technology to improve TV, which is facing major challenges due to YouTube and user-generated content.
Imagen | Hubert Burda Media
Lately we’ve been hearing a lot about wearables, phablets and content—and 4YFN is not about to leave any of these out. On Wednesday, there will be another panel discussion called ‘Content is King’. Among other speakers, we will hear from Shaul Olmert, founder and CEO of PlayBuzz, a service that is famous for its varied questionnaires and checklists that are being shared en mass in social media and that one can create oneself.
But there will also be time for reflection. The entrepreneur Andrew Keen will be interviewed regarding the publication of his book ‘The Internet is Not the Answer‘. According to the book, the Internet has brought about “a disastrous impact on our lives”, adversely affecting our culture and economy. This British-American author has published other books in the same vein, such as: ‘The Cult of the Amateur: How Today’s Internet Is Killing Our Culture’ and ‘Digital Vertigo: How Today’s Online Social Revolution Is Dividing, Diminishing, and Disorienting Us’. Undoubtedly, his opinions will not leave anyone indifferent.
At the same time, eight media startups will be competing against one another, trying to show why they are the best of the bunch. They will have to prove their claim before a select jury including Cristina Riesen, head of Evernote in Europe; Phil Sage, manager from the toy company Hasbro and Krishna Visvanathanm, a venture capital investor, among others.
What’s more, conferences will be held by Rich Riley, CEO of Shazam, the application that identifies songs in just a few seconds, and John Ploumitsakos, Senior Director of Product Strategy and Sales at Twitter. What more could you ask for? See you all in Barcelona!


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TOKYO (REUTERS) - Japan's retail sales rose for a fifth straight month in July, beating expectations as the consumer sector continued its recovery, although a coronavirus resurgence has cast doubts over the spending outlook.
A surge in Delta-variant cases this month forced the government to widen state of emergency restrictions, which are now threatening to hurt consumer spending and derail a fragile economic recovery.
Retail sales advanced 2.4 per cent in July from the same month a year earlier, government data showed on Monday (Aug 30), slightly faster than economists' median forecast of a 2. 1 per cent rise in a Reuters poll. It followed a 0.1 per cent increase in June.
"The recent strength in retail sales is unlikely to last," Mr Marcel Thieliant, senior Japan economist at Capital Economics, said in a note.
"The severe Delta wave now hitting the country coupled with an ever-expanding list of prefectures under states of emergency resulted in a renewed weakening in consumption this quarter," Mr Thieliant said.
The better-than-expected rise in retail sales last month came as the authorities struggled to get a defiant public to heed stay-at-home restrictions in major cities like Tokyo, which hosted the Olympics.
The trade ministry data found strong demand for a variety of items such as cars, clothing, general merchandise and food, while fuel was helped by higher petrol prices.
Small retail establishments like convenience stores and drug stores saw the biggest sales growth from a year earlier.
However, growth was also flattered by the comparison with last year's steep slide, when consumer demand was hurt by the coronavirus pandemic.
Compared with the previous month, retail sales gained a seasonally adjusted 1.1 per cent as consumption continued the surprising growth seen in the second-quarter, helped by the Tokyo Olympics.
The world's third-largest economy grew at a better-than-expected rate in the April-June quarter, thanks largely to private consumption, which makes up more than half of the country's gross domestic product.
But rebounding consumer activity poses a challenge to policymakers as the more contagious Delta variant of Covid-19 upends the nation's healthcare system, with state of emergency curbs now covering nearly 80 per cent of Japan's population.
"People's mobility has been decreasing, and consumption may peak out in August," said Itochu Economic Research Institute chief economist Atsushi Takeda, noting that the downward trend could drag until September.


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Fortinet has released a new paid tier for our FortiPresence product. This will allow users to store and analyze data across an entire year as opposed to the one week limit in the current free tier. Additionally the new paid tier will remove the 5-site limit. FortiPresence is licensed on a per AP basis and is compatible with all three of our management offerings (FortiGate, FortiAP Cloud, or Dedicated Controller). For those customers using our cloud management, our paid cloud licenses for FortiAP Cloud will now include FortiPresence access.
This new offering adds a new option to our FortiPresence line of products which already includes a free tier of FortiPresence as well as the FortiPresence PRO offering which features CRM integration and customer focused campaigns.
FortiPresence represents an excellent opportunity for wireless customers to monetize their wireless network in new ways and obtain interesting insights into visitor's behaviors in the environment. For more information on the benefits of a FortiPresense system, see our recent blog here: https://www.fortinet.com/blog/business-and-technology/using-location-analytics-to-improve-your-business.html
More details on FortiPresence and the differences between the free and paid tiers can be found here: https://www.fortinet.com/content/dam/fortinet/assets/data-sheets/FortiPresence.pdf


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Oh drat! I had intended to post this on September 9, but just discovered it still sitting in the drafts folder.
Jamie Doward reports:
The continuing export of British-made surveillance technology has been thrown into question after the government admitted it had moved to restrict sales of spying software to Egypt.
Human rights campaigners say the government’s decision to restrict the export of Gamma International’s software, the first time it has taken action on such an issue, is a significant step towards the regulation of surveillance technologies. However, many other products remain a cause for concern, they say.
Read more on The Guardian. And a HUGE hip, hip, hooray! for Privacy International for their outstanding advocacy on this issue.


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Nov 6, 2014 1:45 PM by News Staff
A Live Oak woman is facing 20 years in prison after she plead guilty in federal Court Thursday to conspiring to commit mail fraud in a fictitious employer scheme.
34-year-old Iqila Khan is one of 28 defendants charged in a long-running Yuba City-based scheme in which the defendants set up farm labor contracting businesses that purported to provide labor to harvest various crops in Sutter and Yuba Counties.
The defendants registered the businesses with the California Employment Development Department and reported employees and their wages to EDD. Organizers of the scheme sold fraudulent paystubs to other people and reported the wages to EDD. The purchasers of the fake wages could then subsequently file for unemployment or disability benefits with EDD based on their fictitious "employment."
According to court documents, Khan sold fake wages on behalf of the companies at a rate of $250 for every $1,000 of reported "wages."
Khan will be sentenced on January 29, 2015.


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On Thursday, Omar Alghabra, transport minister for Canada, announced in Vancouver that the ban of cruise ships sailing in Canadian waters will end as of November 1, 2021. That's an early end for the nation's previously announced one-year ban for cruise ships and Arctic pleasure craft; it was originally slated to end February 28, 2022.
"We will welcome cruise ships—an important part of our tourism sector—back in Canadian waters for the 2022 season," Alghabra said. So, cruise lines can once again make plans for the 2022 Alaska summer cruise season with ships sailing from Vancouver or Victoria.
The Economic Hit
"We know that the maritime and tourism sectors have been hit hard by the global COVID-19 pandemic," Alghabra said the announcement about ending the ban earlier than anticipated.
The cruise industry contributes more than $4 billion annually to the Canadian economy and directly and indirectly generates 30,000 jobs.
This year's passage of legislation by the U.S. Congress temporarily exempted foreign-flagged cruise ships—comprising the bulk of the cruise industry—from a U.S. law that requires these vessels to make a foreign port call when sailing between U.S. ports. As a result, large cruise ships are sailing from Seattle directly to Alaska ports this month during the 2021 Alaska cruise season. But the end of that Canadian ban will mean those foreign-flagged ships will again need to make a foreign port call when sailing between U.S. ports after November 1.
While that won't impact this year's Alaska season sailings, it signals a return to embarkations/disembarkations and port calls by foreign-flagged vessels at Vancouver or Victoria for the 2022 Alaska season.
"As we reopen safely, we are already preparing for the upcoming cruise season that will help grow our economy," Alghabra said, noting that even though cruise ships would be welcome on or after November 1, operators would need to fully comply with Canada's public health requirements.
Charlie Ball, chair of Cruise Lines International Association – North West & Canada (CLIA-NWC) welcomed Canada's announcement, saying it "provides greater clarity for a return to cruise to Canada for next year," and will allow lines to begin important planning to restore 30,000 jobs and $4.3 billion in economic activity across Canada.
That said, "before we can resume operations in Canada next year, cruise lines will need to re-establish supply chains with local businesses, such as tour operators, hotels, food suppliers, transportation and technical support providers, as well as travel agents,” he emphasized.
Ball added that the extra time the announcement provides will also allow cruise lines to more effectively market cruise itineraries that include stops in Canada for the first time since 2019.
CLIA-NWC stressed that much had changed since the pandemic began early last year:
- More than 600,000 passengers and crew have sailed safely with new safety/health protocols in Europe, Asia and the South Pacific
- More than 30 cruise ships have returned to operation
- Cruises to Alaska from Seattle have resumed and will continue through the summer and into fall 2021
“CLIA member cruise lines place the health and safety of their passengers, crew and the communities they visit as their top priority,” said Ball. “We thank our cruise and tourism partners in Canada for their expressions of support, and look forward to working with the Government of Canada, provincial authorities and our many partners as we develop plans for a successful 2022 cruise season.”
Transport Canada also said it will continue to work with the Public Health Agency of Canada, other levels of government, the United States government, transportation industry stakeholders, indigenous peoples and Arctic communities to help ensure Canadians and Canada’s transportation system remain safe and secure.
“I would like to thank the federal government for working collaboratively and constructively with us, and for taking action on this issue that is an important part of BC’s economy, said Rob Fleming, minister of transportation and infrastructure for British Columbia.
Mayor Lisa Helps of the City of Victoria, B.C., said "our local economy has definitely taken a hit," and thanked the Canadian government for "for doing the necessary work to keep Canadians safe during the pandemic, but also for understanding how much the cruise industry means to the entire south island and for making this announcement today to give predictability and certainty to the industry going forward.”


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May 12 - Heavy lift freight forwarding network the Project Professionals Group has appointed international air freight wholesaler Air Cargo Group in China as a Project Support Member.
PPG general manger Kevin Stephens said ACG would provide PPG members with value-added international airfreight services tailored to their needs.
"ACG has excellent global reach that strongly complements the needs of a network like the PPG that is now represented by 140 member offices in 93 countries," Mr Stephens said.
"ACG's China representative will provide PPG members with access to special air freight consolidation rates, air cargo charters and specialised neutral air transport handling."
All ACG members are IATA licensed and users of bonded warehouses and breakbulk facilities. ACG is among the top global air freight players in the air cargo industry offering scheduled air freight consolidations worldwide, airport to door, wholesale express, neutral handling and brokerage, chartering and special air transport.
PPG's new membership category for Project Support Members was recently established specifically for equipment owners and operators and service providers including stevedores, owners of heavy haulage and multi-axle trailers and specialist engineering equipment, ship owners-brokers, rail owners and operators, aircraft owners and operators and air cargo handling equipment, crane companies, barge owners and operators, port authorities, surveyors, insurance companies, and marine consultants.
Contact: Air Cargo Group Association Co., Ltd. Mr. Christos Spyrou. Yanan Road West 726, Room 19 I, Cross Road Jiangsu Road, 200050 Shanghai, China Tel: (+86-21) 5237 3509 / Fax: (+86-21) 5237 3391.


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Dated on Nov. 22, 2018, Chairman Nie Songlin warmly received Mr. Wang Qiang, general manager of Sinopec North China Branch with his team.
TDF is one of Sinopec's gold customers and has maintained a good cooperative relationship for several years. Mr. Nie introduced the construction of Chuzhou TDF plant and the marketing results of the polypropylene material company this year. Wang Qiang and his team appreciated the development achievements of TDF in recent years, and were proud to participate in and witness the rapid growth of TDF.
After that, Mr. Wang Qiang and his team visited the production workshop for polyester roofing carrier, and discussed how to reduce the production cost in details, and finally reached an agreement to improve it. They also exchanged views on raw material supply and marketing policies in 2019 with us openly.
Dated on March 18th, 2019, the re-evaluation meeting of China's constructional nonwoven waterproofing materials research and development base was held in TDF Holdings Co., Ltd. China's constructional nonwoven waterproofing materials research and development base was established in 2016, on the basis of TDF Nonwovens Co., Ltd., which has been operated for 3 years successfully. The meeting was organized by the China Industrial Textile Industry Association, and industry experts and customer representatives were invited to conduct an on-site inspection of the production base, reviewed the application materials and listened to the report on the base construction and future development plan.
According to the "Implementation Plan for Environmental Protection Acceptance of Construction Projects of Dezhou Environmental Protection Bureau" (Dehuanhan  No. 10), it is now published:
The completion date of the semi-coke boiler of TDF Nonwovens Co., Ltd. is July 15, 2020. And the commissioning date of pollution prevention facilities is from July 16, 2020 to Aug 30, 2020.


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DDI Announces New Corporate Brand & LogoSeptember 8, 2017
DDI System will reveal a new corporate brand and logo during ISSA/INTERCLEAN® 2017 North America next week.
DDI System will showcase the new brand and logo in Booth 1773 beginning September 11. “Our new brand identity is a logical step that communicates to both current customers and potential customers that we continue to provide products and services that consistently outpace our competitors,” said Jennifer Rosvally, director of marketing for DDI System.
About DDI System
DDI System is a Sandy Hook, CT-based software company that provides enterprise resource planning solutions, including business analytics, e-commerce, and other solutions for wholesale distributors. For more information, visit www.ddisys.com.


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- Lee Tulloch: Why I'm still loyal to Qantas
- Qantas jobs: managers culled in shake-up
- Qantas: the changes you will notice
Qantas frequent flyer members think of their points as a right rather than a reward, which will trigger a backlash over a revamp of the airline's loyalty program, a leading aviation commentator has warned.
The airline "ought to be very careful in how they tread in this area" because of increased competition from Virgin Australia, the editor of AirlineRatings.com, Geoffrey Thomas, told Fairfax Media.
"Two to three years ago, Qantas didn't have any competition in business class or full service economy, but they now face very real competition from Virgin Australia," he said.
"Today, many people are members of both Qantas and Virgin Australia loyalty programs, and they can make choices to swing one way or the other if one is annoying them.
"Passengers don't think of it as points; they think of it as dollars.
Mr Thomas said the change was "absolutely profit driven".
"Doing something like this may look good to an accountant on paper, but in the cut and thrust of intense competition, this may be a frequent flyer point too far."
Under the revamp, announced on Thursday night, customers will earn points based on their ticket class, rather than the distance flown.
For example, a customer flying from Australia to London on a discount economy fare, which includes sale tickets, will receive 6200 points, while those travelling on a more expensive flexi-saver will receive 12,400 points.
The airline will also reduce the number of status credits that discount customers earn with partner airlines.
This will make it harder for those customers to reach the program's silver, gold, or platinum level.
Gold and platinum frequent flyers are given free access to the Qantas Club and earn more points when they travel.
The changes come into effect on July 1.
Qantas sent an email to its 9 million Frequent Flyer members outlining the revamp, and assuring them they would not affect current points balances, or the way points are earned with airline partners.
"When it's time to redeem, there's no change to the number of points you need for a Classic Award, or how you use your points for your chosen reward," it said.
Qantas said the changes were designed to reward customers who booked more expensive fares.
"It's all about creating a fairer, more simplified program, designed to align the number of Qantas points and status credits you earn more closely with the fare you pay, where you fly and the airline you choose," it said in the email.
A Qantas spokeswoman said members would accumulate more points on more expensive flexible fares.
She said the airline will introduce a new points earning table for Qantas and Jetstar, which will be followed by partner airlines.
Qantas has also reduced the minimum points guarantee for members flying on economy and discount economy fares from 1000 to 800.
The Qantas program is one of the most popular airline loyalty programs. Points are currently awarded based on distance, with bonuses that vary depending on travel class. Points can also be earned via Qantas-affiliated partners, such as Oneworld airlines, credit-card providers and hotels.
Consumer group Choice spokesman Tom Godfrey said the news did not bode well for consumers.
"A lot of consumers who are looking for discounted airfares and seeking to get a benefit from signing up to a rewards program will have to think twice before looking at Qantas," he said.
"Maybe it's time Frequent Flyers should change its name to Premium Purchases, because, at the end of the day, Qantas is not rewarding your loyalty or how far you fly, but rewarding the premium price you pay for tickets."
The changes have prompted anger from Frequent Flyer members on Twitter, with some slamming Qantas' decision as a "high buyer" scheme.
But Mr Thomas believes Qantas' reputation is "good enough to withstand the backlash in the long run".
"Yes, they've taken a bit of a battering, but as long as they continue to deliver a valued product, they will survive," he said.
Australian Business Traveller editor David Flynn said that for some passengers, the changes will be a case of "the golden handcuffs".
"Can they afford to walk away from their bank of frequent flyer points and their shiny VIP cards by shifting to another airline?" he said.
"Certainly, the passengers paying top dollar for their tickets won't see any disadvantage; in fact, they'll come out better off, which is exactly what Qantas wants."
Mr Flynn said that despite the timing of the changes, they intend to "make it easier for travellers to work out how many frequent flyer points they'll earn on any given flight and type of ticket".


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Struggling for a New Year’s Resolution?
Each January, hundreds of thousands across the UK and the rest of the world join in with Veganuary. The annual challenge involves participants pledging to follow a vegan diet for the month of January, cutting all animal-derived products from their diet, with some participants going further and cutting animal products from their lifestyle entirely for the month. Last year, over 620,000 took the pledge to try the vegan diet, and since the initiative was launched in 2014, the challenge has gained increased media attention and participants with each passing year. Cognisant of the growing popularity of Veganuary, many companies and brands will release special vegan products during the month of January. For example, this year, Asda has launched its own brand new vegan range of food products, with over 100 vegan products for customers to choose from.
Beyond January, however, many are now choosing a plant-based diet as a long-term lifestyle choice and vegan products in our shops and supermarkets are staying on shelves for much longer than just January. The number of vegans in the UK is also steadily increasing. With the current focus on the global climate crisis, these numbers do not look set to reduce in the coming years. Indeed, market research group Mintel found that 49% of people in the UK are now limiting their meat consumption.
It's not just consumers making changes, however – the agricultural industry in the UK is also beginning to become increasingly involved in the discussion around plant-based living and sustainability.
The agriculture industry in the UK is a sector that is a major source of harmful greenhouse gas emissions – in particular, methane gas, with agriculture being responsible for an estimated 48% of all methane emissions in the UK in 2020. Livestock in particular is one of the main sources of methane gas, and farmers, like the rest of the UK population, are becoming increasingly aware of their own and their sector’s carbon footprint. In recent years, various organisations have emerged to help farmers combat these emissions and make changes towards more environmentally-friendly farming.
Farmers for Stock Free Farming (FFSFF) is a Scottish-based, grass roots organisation whose purpose is helping to support farmers who want to transition to animal-free agriculture. Speaking to the BBC last year, their executive director acknowledged that, in the UK, farmers have been in a difficult position for some time, given the impacts of Brexit, the low price of produce and the detrimental impact animal farming can have on the environment. FFSFF helps to inspire farmers to make different choices and explore different revenue streams beyond simply growing crops. Using land for glamping, for example, is one of the suggestions they have for farmers who are looking to move away from animal farming in a way that is financially viable.
They are not alone in this mission. UK organisation Refarm’d is another UK-based company whose mission is to help farmers transition away from farming livestock. In particular, Refarm’d works with dairy farmers and helps them in the process of selling plant-based dairy products and substitutes. With demand for milk substitutes growing, and the difficulties smaller dairy farms are facing in terms of running a profitable business, more dairy farmers may be looking for ways they can make the transition to producing plant-based milk alternatives.
Across the agriculture sector, there is an acknowledgement that the demand for plant-based products is growing exponentially and farmers keen on reducing their carbon footprint are looking towards new, more environmentally-friendly ways of making money from the land they own.
The Vegan Land Movement is a Community Interest Company and a crowd-funded platform in the UK which, at its core, understands the importance land ownership plays in animal agriculture. Their mission is to buy up parcels of land being put up for sale, either by farmers or with agricultural development in mind, and use these instead for more environmentally-friendly purposes. To date, the group has bought 25 acres across four parcels of land by outbidding farmers at auctions. Three of these plots are now being re-wilded, with trees being planted on them and the fourth is potentially going to become a veganic community orchard.
By buying up this land, preventing it from being used for agriculture, they are playing a vital role in helping to promote and protect not only the environment, but also biodiversity. Diminishing biodiversity, that is the variety of animals and plants present in an environment, is a serious problem in the UK. The State of Nature Report in 2019 found that 41% of the UK’s species have declined, in part due to the impacts of agriculture and climate change. The Report found that changing agricultural management has had the biggest single impact on nature in the UK over recent decades, with 72% of UK land managed for agriculture.
Despite some efforts being made to reverse this, it looks as though this is a trend that is set to continue, and declining biodiversity could have a disastrous impact on our ecosystems. The State of Nature Report highlighted a need to slow down agricultural expansion, but there is a lack of any real desire to make legislative changes at government level. So, grass roots organisations like the Vegan Land Movement are at the heart of the fight to save our rapidly dwindling native biodiversity.
Overall, while Veganuary is a great challenge and opportunity for people to learn more about the ways in which what they eat and where it comes from impacts the environment, making positive changes to support the environment should be a year-round commitment for us all, not just for January. Declining biodiversity and the continued growth of the UK’s agricultural sector is something that, if not seriously curbed, could have disastrous consequences for everyone.
So, as thousands across the country take part in Veganuary this month, we should all take the time to consider the impact of commercial farming not only on livestock, but on the animals and nature around us as well.
This article was co-written by Georgie Naysmith, Trainee Solicitor.


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First Friday features Octoberfest in downtown
First Friday in downtown Greencastle will be holding its Oktoberfest celebration from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1.
In addition to the fine local merchants and artisans that you've come to expect, this month's event offers a free outdoor concert, beer tasting, wine tasting, food, kid-friendly activities, fall items for sale, pumpkin decorating contest, and much, much more. With so many activities, October's First Friday is sure to have something for everyone!
Headlining First Friday is the ever-popular Maryland area blues band, Rudy and the Bluefish, which will be performing on the square. Their mix of blues and bluesy rock favorites ensures a good time for all.
Bob's Florist and Gift Shop is sponsoring a Pumpkin Decorating Contest. There is a $1 entry fee. Participants can pick up their small pumpkin at the shop and use markers, glitter and paint to decorate it. Finished pumpkins need to be turned in by Thursday, Sept. 30. They will be judged and put on display during First Friday at Bob's. Prizes include a giant pumpkin for carving as first prize; and the choice of a fresh floral pumpkin arrangement or gift certificate for candy as second and third prizes.
First Friday welcomes Tuscarora Mountain Winery, that has opened a new shop on Baltimore Street and will be having a wine tasting. For beer lovers, Roy Pitz Brewing Company will be hosting a beer tasting at the Fran Kenawell State Farm office.
Many food choices will be available. CenturyLink, previously known as Embarq, will be giving away free hot dogs and sauerkraut. Mrs. Gibble's Restaurant will have free samples of its popular items, and Mikie's Ice Cream will be selling ice cream and sundaes. Pure & Simple Café will remain open, serving smoothies, coffee and their new bakery items.
In keeping with the Oktoberfest theme, the Greencastle-Antrim High School Art Club will be featuring pumpkin painting for kids, Butterfly Gardens from McConnellsburg will be selling pumpkins, mums, and other fall favorites, and Tracey's Orchard will be selling seasonal produce.
To honor Breast Cancer Awareness month, Anna's Paperworks, which will feature a preview of fall classes and papercrafting, will be providing pink refreshments and giveaways. Any donations will be given to Cumberland Valley Breast Cancer Awareness.
Many shops have new and exciting merchandise for fall, and many artists are showcasing their pieces, including candlemakers Ken and Alice Seylar, collage artist Betsy Harnish and polymer clay artist Jen Rosenberry. Jewelry designers Heather Nowell of Zen Creations, Elysa Koons, Jessica Higgens, and Elisa Tlanda of Spanish Cage Jewelry will be displaying their artistry, including Jessica's handmade felted bags. Regina Rosenberry and Laura Shindle will be showcasing their cards and paintings. Dave Miller of Mountain View Pottery will be displaying his pieces. Cassie Schook will be showcasing her photography and artist Rebekah Zeimann will have painted pumpkins.
For information, including a list of participating merchants, news and artists, visit www.firstfridaygreencastle.com or call the Greencastle-Antrim Chamber of Commerce at 717-597-4610.


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On 09, Nov 2015 | In Events | By Alisa Maier
The implementation of the EU WEEE Directive (2012/19/EU) is accomplished in most of the EU Member Countries. Germany’s transposition, the so called new ElektroG, has entered into force on October 24, 2015. The new ElektroG introduces some major changes to producers’ obligations. Furthermore, Stiftung ear is adapting registration procedures to meet the new requirements.
Globally acting companies producing or selling EEE across Europe face the challenge to understand the impact of the new legal requirements on their business in all their target markets.
Meike Ruoff, Director at 1cc GmbH, will provide an insight into the main elements of the new ElektroG for German and foreign producers, and how these are put into practice across Europe.
Date: November 12, 2015
Time: 3 p.m. CET
Sign up: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7404276598329553921
Participation in this 1cc Webinar is free. However, the number of participants in the webinar will be limited to 20 attendees.


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The American department store supremo and marketing pioneer John Wanamaker famously quipped that half the money he spent on advertising was wasted; the problem was, he didn’t know which half.
Many Australian business leaders know that feeling all too well. But while some degree of opacity may be considered acceptable when business is booming, it’s less likely to fly when times are tough – and, in 2020 Australia, tough they most certainly are.
As the country’s commercial sector begins the long journey out of coronavirus-induced recession, business leaders are looking to rationalise expenditure and ensure they get maximum value for every cent they outlay, across all aspects of operations.
Some companies lost no time in taking a machete to the marketing budget after the COVID-19 pandemic struck. According to a Digital Ad Impact Study published by IAB Australia in April 2020, 86 per cent of local brands had changed their digital ad investment over the previous month. Half of those polled said they were making decisions on the fly, reviewing their advertising spend at least daily.
The survey found 57 per cent of businesses had cut back and around one in five had paused ad spending entirely. Just 15 per cent reported they increased or maintained their pre-coronavirus ad budget.
Opinions on the wisdom of each approach are divided – but whether you choose to slash or spend, it’s important to ensure that the money you invest in digital advertising is delivering the best return possible, in the here and now.
That starts with calculating your Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) – the amount of revenue you gain from each dollar invested in advertising. You can do so by dividing the revenue a campaign generates by the cost of running it. Unlike Return on Investment calculations, this sum doesn’t factor in profit margins or other related
If your ROAS numbers look lacklustre, it’s time to act. Benchmarking and comparing the channels you use will enable you to double down on the ones which are delivering the best return and put a pause on those which aren’t driving activity.
While tough economic conditions can see sales shrink across the board, it’s important to remember that not all customers stop spending. That’s why it makes sense to home in on those who are most likely to open their wallets, based on past behaviour. Excluding those whose history indicates they’re tougher to convert can also be a sensible move. When advertising resources are limited, a targeted campaign is likely to be more cost-effective than a scattergun approach.
A unified customer data platform can take the guesswork out of understanding customers and making decisions about how to allocate your advertising budget, in good times and bad.
Being able to easily analyse the effectiveness of your campaigns and channels and use that intelligence to inform your tactics can help you get the best bang for your buck, at a time when doing so has never been more important.
Prakash Durgani, Regional Vice President – Asia Pacific and Japan, Segment


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28 3 2017
Competition is high in all segments and price pressure offsets sales volume growth, meaning that the already low profit margins will remain under pressure.
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19 12 2018
Despite efforts of food exporters to diversify shipments away from Britain, a hard Brexit remains a major challenge, also for shipments to mainland Europe.
Growth is set to continue, but the strong export orientation makes many food businesses susceptible to trade disputes and price/currency fluctuations.
Many meat processors and producers suffer from higher procurement prices, while their ability to pass on those increases to retailers is limited.
Even the biggest food retailers are small compared to other major international players, and e-commerce is increasingly challenging traditional businesses.
The new Mexican government could launch policies in order to increase domestic production and put emphasis on domestic agricultural support programmes.
Higher input costs have increased the pressure on margins in recent years, with a recent draught in Australia having and additional negative impact.
The number of protracted payments in the sector is rather high as larger businesses use their leverage against suppliers by demanding long payment terms.
10 12 2018
The UK leaving the EU without a deal would be a major disruption, causing business insolvencies to be higher in the UK and EU27.
03 12 2018
The USMCA has finally been signed on November 30, easing short-term uncertainty surrounding North American trade.
27 11 2018
The main potential downside risk for the industry is a deterioration in orders from main buyer industries, especially from the automotive sector.


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Two key players on the Oppenheimer sales team will bring their game faces to top positions after recent promotions.
Walt Breeden brings 25 years of experience in produce to his role of director of sales for Canada. His tenure with Oppenheimer began in 1987, selling California-grown produce throughout Western Canada. In 1997 he was promoted to sales manager, and in 2001 he led the opening of the company's Calgary, AB, office.
In his new position, Mr. Breeden will continue to strategically oversee the efforts of Oppenheimer's Western Canadian sales team while aiming to increase sales in Eastern Canada.
"As our business expands eastward, it's imperative that we leverage the consumer behavior and buying patterns in those regions with Oppenheimer products," Mr. Breeden said in a press release. "We offer a wide range of items that are suitable for the eastern market, like our new apple varieties."
Mr. Breeden was convention chairman of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association in 2006 and currently sits on its board of directors. In 2014, he will take on a promotion of a different nature when he becomes CPMA chairman.
"Oppenheimer and our President, Chairman and CEO John Anderson have always been involved in giving back while encouraging people to get involved in the industry," said Mr. Breeden, noting that Mr. Anderson and recently retired sales representative, Rick Wallis, have both been CPMA chairs in the past.
Mr. Breeden is also the past president and former director of the British Columbia Produce Marketing Association.
David Cheung will step into Breeden's previous position of sales manager in Oppenheimer's Vancouver office. He will be responsible for leading the local sales team while driving the company's Western Canadian sales initiatives.
"Davidis a team player and a natural leader," Mr. Breeden said in the press release. "His tremendous knowledge of the produce industry combined with an aptitude for customer service makes him an invaluable asset to both our sales team and Oppenheimer."
Mr. Cheung currently sits on the board of directors for the British Columbia Produce Marketing Association. He was a buyer for the Overwaitea Food Group of Vancouver, BC, before joining Oppenheimer as a sales representative in 2006. Experience in the retail sector allowed him to develop a strong understanding of the unique challenges faced by retailers in today's market, Mr. Breeden said.
"The produce industry is dynamic and unpredictable," said Mr. Cheung. "It's important to have a flexible, adaptable team that is adept at building and maintaining relationships with various touch points. Understanding the needs of retailers is key, and I'm proud to say this is an area where Oppenheimer's sales team excels."


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Shanghai’s deputy major has announced the city’s plans to end its Covid-19 lockdown and to return to economic activity and a more normal life from June 1.
The city’s lockdown has lasted more than six weeks and led to a decline in the country’s imports and exports and general economic activity. The Guardian reported that Deputy Mayor Zong Ming had announced at a media briefing on Monday that Shanghai would be reopened in stages, using a Chinese term that refers to the period between May 11 and 20. This would be done to prevent a resurgence in the number of new infections.
“From June 1 to mid- and late June, as long as risks of a rebound in infections are controlled, we will fully implement epidemic prevention and control, normalise management, and fully restore normal production and life in the city,” Ming said.
Shanghai's hard lockdown and Covid curbs on hundreds of millions of consumers and workers in dozens of other cities impacted retail sales, industrial production, and employment, raising concern that the economy could shrink in the second quarter. The restrictions have also impacted the global supply chain and international trade, which have not faced similar restrictions in the rest of the world in recent months.
China’s industrial output declined 2.9% in April compared to the same period in 2021, a sharp drop from the 5.0% increase recorded in March. Retail sales tanked 11.1% year-on-year in April after declining 3.5% the month before. Economists had not expected such sharp declines.
Analysts have forecast an improvement in May and expect the Chinese government and its central bank to implement stimulus measures to boost the economy. However, China’s stringent “zero Covid” policy that aims to eradicate all outbreaks at any cost could impact the speed and strength of the recovery.