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Google Unleashes Google CapitalÃ¢â‚¬â€Targets Only Startups in Growth Phase
After the unprecedented success of Google Ventures, GoogleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s innovative endeavor to invest in startups and acquire companies, the major internet giant has launched Google Capital amid speculations.
Google Capital will invest in startups in their growth phase unlike Google Ventures, which only invested in companies in their initial stages.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“WeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll be looking to invest in companies solely as they hit their growth phase. That means finding companies that have already built a solid foundation and are really ready to expand their business in big ways,Ã¢â‚¬Â stated Google in its blog.
SurveyMonkey, Lending Club, and Renaissance Learning are few leading firms among others that are being invested by Google Capital.
All such companies will have an access to GoogleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s technology and leaders.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“While many investors may contribute money and advice to the companies they support, Google Capital is going beyond that and tapping into our greatest assets: our people,Ã¢â‚¬Â companies under Google Capital venture stated.
Talking about the Google Capital, many other companies said, Ã¢â‚¬Å“weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re excited about what weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re doing todayÃ¢â‚¬â€but even more excited to see what happens in the years to come.Ã¢â‚¬Â
Google also announced its two-day workshop in Banglore, India recently to create Android applications in local languages.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“The next 300 million Internet users in India wonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t use English. ThatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s why weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re working on enabling the Internet in Indian languages, which is the key to driving growth,Ã¢â‚¬Â Rajan Anandan, Google managing director, said during an event.


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The Port of Baku has announced it has begun a cooperation agreement with a coalition of leading companies in the Dutch city of Venlo, one of the biggest logistics and transport hubs in Europe.
According to a statement, the agreement will see a closer partnership with the state government of Limburg, The Netherlands, and firms such as Cabooter Group, SMART Logistics Centre, the Limburg Development & Investment Company, Greenport Venlo and KLG Europe.
The city of Venlo, near the German border, is home to many distribution centers which are used by many of the world’s biggest companies, including agribusiness, clothing, electronics and other industries.
Most of the cargo which arrives at Europe’s biggest ports, such as Rotterdam, Antwerp and Amsterdam is delivered to Venlo and distributed throughout the continent.
A brand new Port Technology technical paper looked at Transshipment Traffic and Gateway Volatility
At the signing ceremony for the agreement, Taleh Ziyadov, general director of the Baku International Sea Trade Port, said: “Our cooperation, the foundation of which is being laid today, will be the result of attracting well-known companies from the Netherlands and Europe to the Port of Baku.
“It is gratifying that the Dutch companies in the logistics chain between Asia and Europe pay special attention to the new Port of Baku and seek to involve various services and production in our country.”

domain: news


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Fancy jumping on the 4K TV bandwagon but not so keen on the big price tags? Bush and Argos may just have the answer.
A 39in Bush 4K TV has gone up on the Argos website for just £500 – some £4000 cheaper than the last Ultra HD set that we reviewed (admittedly that was a much larger, 65in television, the LG 65LA970W).
The twist? It's not actually available to buy yet, currently showing as 'out of stock' both online and in stores.
We got in touch with Argos who confirmed that the TV shouldn't on sale yet, a spokesperson telling whathifi.com: "Unfortunately, this line has appeared early on our website in error – and there are currently no stocks available."
MORE: Best TV deals in the UK
It's not the first budget 4K TV that we've seen, with Kogan and Polaroid releasing cheap Ultra HD TVs at CES 2014.
This followed the Seiki SE39UY04 4K TV, which went on sale in the US for $699 (and looks not dissimilar to the Bush model, suggesting it could be a rebadged model).
Argos suggests the Bush 4K TV will have three HDMI inputs, a USB input and a smattering of legacy video connections, plus that all-important 3840 x 2160 resolution.
While the knockdown price will grab plenty of peoples' attention, we'd question whether a 39in TV is anywhere near big enough to see the benefit of the increased resolution.
And that's before we second-guess the quality of a Bush TV, a brand name that it's fair to say hasn't exactly been synonomous with high quality televisions in the past (budget TVs – yes).
Still, increased interest in 4K on the 'high street' and an increasing number of more affordable sets should help to bring down the price of models from more established brands.
Panasonic, Samsung, Sony et al., all have new TV ranges for 2014, so we look forward to seeing the prices of the new UHD TVs.
MORE: Best CES 2014 TVs
MORE: Best TV to buy in 2014
by Joe Cox


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While the vultures have not yet started circling over Cupertino, California, the home of Apple Computer Inc, the recruitment consultants have. Following the announcement that Apple was shedding 4,100 jobs, or a third of its workforce, as part of its latest efforts to revive its flagging fortunes, the headhunters swiftly moved in. One even hired a light plane to buzz Apple’s Cupertino campus trailing the recruiter’s contact details for anyone keen to avoid the kind of stampede that followed the earlier cut of 4,000 positions last Summer. With unemployment at only 3% in Silicon Valley, the prospects for the thousands sacked are good. If only the same could be said for Apple. Unless this latest radical restructuring by Gil Amelio (CI No 3,122) can turn the company around quickly, new personal computer buyers will be beyond its reach, and even the confidence among its faithful Apple user base will ebb away. Amelio has been described as a by the book manager and,some say, his plans for Apple reflect this. The product range will be pruned – with fewer Macintosh and PowerBook lines – and technologies such as video conferencing and IBM Corp AIX Unix server support ditched. Apple’s legendary profligate research and development spending will be scaled back to 5% of the company’s revenues. Having failed to push Apple into new markets, Amelio wants the company to fall back on its traditionally strong sectors, where loyalty to the Apple brand is fierce – specifically, education, publishing and new media, which includes Internet content building. What will stop much erosion of that user base is expectations for Rhapsody, the next- generation operating system technology that Apple is crafting following its $430m acquisition of NeXT Computer (CI No 3,069), the object-oriented software company of Apple founder Steve Jobs. Rhapsody is due in mid-1998, and will remove many of the weaknesses of Apple’s current System 7 operating system. Meanwhile, critics say a thorough restructuring of the company has been long overdue. Bureaucracy had run wild. For instance, the company had 20 different marketing departments. But the immediate effect of the changes will be yet more red ink on the balance sheet. The company’s results for its second quarter ending 28 March will show a $155m charge for restructuring on top of the $325m writedown it will take for the December purchase of NeXT. Apple says revenues for the quarter will weigh in at $1.6bn to $1.7bn, $250m below the most pessimistic analyst’s previous expectations. That will be followed by a further, smaller loss in the third quarter, predicts Amelio, and a return to profitability in the fourth. Financial analysts are divided over Apple’s future. Barry Bosak, an analyst with Smith Barney, has seen computer giants Dell Computer Corp and IBM turn themselves around and believes Apple can too if it focuses on its core market. But Eugene Glazer at Dean Witter Reynolds says that whatever Apple does its problems remain the same: It’s a niche company with a declining market share, he says.
From the April edition of our sister publication Computer Business Review.


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Hoping for a sale, Perkins & Marie Callender’s is finding the buyer’s market thin, according to a re
Perkins & Marie Callender’s
At its annual Brand Conference attended by nearly 500 owners, managers and business partners, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery announced that Ms.
As Perkins Restaurant & Bakery celebrates its 60th Anniversary, it announced the rollout of a new menu; the launch of a "Kindness Served Daily" campaign; and the hire of Thomas Yun, Vice Presid
Michael Holleman, Indian Harvest


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Little Mistress looks to take advantage of US demand for British brands with Stateside website launch
Young fashion brand Little Mistress plans to woo US customers already hooked on British brands such as Asos and Topshop.
The label plans to launch a US trading website this month and is in talks with upmarket department stores including Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s.
The brand has grown from a £2million business three years ago and expects to exceed £20million this year.
Expansion: Little Mistress is plotting a move Stateside with the launch of a US trading website this month.
It has set up five showrooms across the states and its web site will be supported by a company-owned warehouse based in Florida.
‘The potential is huge. US consumers are also becoming very aware of British style through retailers such as Topshop and Asos and we think our styling, prom and party dresses really resonate here,’ said chairman Mark Smith, who visited the US last month.
‘We’ve been planning this for 18 months and are prepared to be patient to get it right. We are under no illusions. The market is intensely competitive with some big cultural differences,’ he said.
Little Mistress sells in the UK through its own site, which accounts for 15 per cent of sales, and retailers such as House of Fraser, Asos and Very.co.uk.
The company, which is wholly owned by its management team, is looking at options for growth in the Far East and is also opening a Moscow showroom.
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Will the same branding principles that made Van Heusen one of the biggest shirt brands in America work in the world of high fashion?
Bruce Klatsky thinks so.
Earlier this year the chairman and chief executive of Phillips-Van Heusen Corp. pulled the trigger on a deal to buy Calvin Klein for more than $430 million. Now, as Klatsky oversees the 2004 launch of Calvin Klein better-priced collections at retail, the fashion industry is watching closely to see if PVH, expert at managing midpriced labels like Izod and Arrow shirts, will show the same touch with an iconic American designer label.
Klatsky, in his keynote address, embraced the challenge. “We bought a brand, maybe the Holy Grail of brands,” he said. “And you would be correct in assuming that our aggressive pursuit and acquisition of this particular brand says a lot about how we see ourselves and our place in the fashion industry.”
Klatsky conceded the acquisition of Klein boldly took PVH to places, especially distribution channels, where it has never been before, but he said the same focus on brand stewardship that had kept labels like Van Heusen and Bass vital for decades and longer would ensure that Calvin Klein could be developed successfully.
“Where [reporters, consumers and investors] see product and distribution channel, we see something entirely different,” he said. “We see brand. That’s why it doesn’t bother me at all to put Calvin Klein couture, Bass footwear and Van Heusen shirts in the same sentence —?and even in the same company. In today’s fashion world it is eminently sensible.”
Although the price points and positioning of Calvin Klein are different from those of Van Heusen shirts, the same principles will drive Calvin Klein’s success under its new ownership, Klatsky said. Regardless of their price point or distribution, brands require the same three elements for correct development: a product that is distinctive and true to itself; a distribution strategy that is appropriate, and a marketing proposition that is right for the brand.
“Calvin Klein is that rarest of rare birds — a world-class brand whose value is nowhere near being fully realized,” he added.
Asked whether his Calvin business would be affected if women’s designer Francisco Costa, a Gucci alumnus about whom there’s been speculation as a possible successor for Tom Ford at either Gucci or Yves Saint Laurent, left the firm, Klatsky said, “Calvin is an institution. It’s not dependent on [PVH’s president] Mark Weber or Bruce Klatsky, or anyone else.”
While commending Costa, Klatsky stopped well short of saying he was indispensable. “We want to provide Francisco with an environment he loves. He will contribute to the aesthetic of [Calvin Klein]. He’s a key member of the team,” Klatsky finally said.
The biggest challenge in the integration of Calvin Klein was transferring its men’s and women’s collection, previously produced in-house, to Vestimenta. That transfer has been completed and the line is selling “exceedingly well, I’ve been told,” said Klatsky. Van Heusen signed the Vestimenta deal in February.
Design and marketing remains at Klein’s offices on West 39th Street, though the back-office operations have been merged with PVH. The men’s sportswear business, which was kept in-house as a division of PVH, was moved to the Klein offices as well, he said.
With the relaunch of Klein under way, department stores are a topic close to Klatsky’s mind, and during his presentation he made an impassioned argument that national brands were key to the renewal of that sector. “It is not a stretch to say that the future of our company is in many ways linked to the continued health and vitality of department stores,” he said.
“The brands that department stores carry set them apart from their competition,” said Klatsky. “They establish uniqueness. They add prestige and cachet. They overcome resistance. They create excitement. They facilitate purchasing decisions. They attract customers. And they define the shopping experience.”
The department store segment is an area PVH has been carefully watching. Klatsky described the segment as “critical and a growing distribution channel for us…it remains the strongest and best retail concept for selling the kinds of quality brands that we are most interested in manufacturing and marketing.”
PVH sells its brands in a variety of distribution channels, including department stores for Van Heusen, Geoffrey Beene and Kenneth Cole dress shirts; middle-market chains for Arrow dress shirts, and mass retailers for private label. It also operates more than 700 stores, mainly outlets.
Although PVH uses a multibrand strategy, it ensures that its execution of that strategy preserves each brand’s uniqueness and value, Klatsky said.
PVH is returning Calvin Klein to department stores at a time when radical changes in global sourcing are making it harder for department stores to compete. The flannel shirt sold by a big box retailer is often made in the same factory that turns out designer clothes and, though the shirt may not be quite as well-made as the designer fashions, it still offers good value for its price, said Klatsky.
“Global sourcing has succeeded in delivering quality, fashion and value to mass merchandisers whose great creativity and ubiquity make them incredibly formidable competitors,” he said. Meanwhile, specialty retailers like Chico’s FAS, which found a niche serving normal-size, middle-aged women, are taking share from department stores as well, Klatsky noted.
The business has changed profoundly from years ago when brands like Gold Toe socks could analyze each market, and choose one department store to sell its products, said Klatsky. Now there is less loyalty on all sides of the equation. Consumers are more price-driven, suppliers serve multiple channels and department stores have turned increasingly to private labels.
As if it wasn’t enough to respond to those changes in the retail landscape, the fashion industry should expect there are more to come, said Klatsky. “I feel confident in saying is that within the next five years, some retail concept no one is anticipating will have taken the market by storm. And there is really nothing anyone can do to anticipate it or stop it.”
Department stores have turned increasingly to private labels, Klatsky noted, but he cautioned that if department stores depend too much on their own labels, they are essentially competing with specialty retailers on their own level, instead of playing up one of their biggest assets: the ability to offer a range of national brands.
But even if brands are department stores’ best defense against the competition, in today’s fast-moving world they are harder to develop than ever. In the past, retailers and wholesalers would stand behind a brand until it caught on with consumers, but today if something doesn’t immediately catch consumers’ attention, there is no room for it on the floor.
The costs of buying media time, as well as the challenges of developing product and establishing manufacturing also make it hard for new brands to be created, said Klatsky. “Hot new brands do emerge occasionally…but it is always serendipity when they do. And without proper attention and support to maintain their relevance to the consumer, such brands seldom last.”
To maximize the value of their brands, retailers and vendors need to cooperate as much as possible, Klatsky said. Vendors and wholesalers should be consulting on everything from preseason planning and brand assortment to promotional calendars and advertising, he said. Retailers should also choose their suppliers carefully since how they manage their brands can have a big impact on the bottom line.
Despite changes in the industry, consumers still know the best brands are found in department stores, Klatsky said. That means that brand management, brand development, brand preservation and brand extension are skills that fashion companies must have if they wanted to succeed.
As an example of successful brand management, Klatsky cited Van Heusen, which he called “in many ways the perfect brand,” with a large and loyal customer base and single-channel distribution. The brand has retained its unique image and iconic status even while responding well to line extension and updating, he noted.
“After 30 years of wringing value out of the [Van Heusen] name, I can tell you that it is a song that has much to teach us about all kinds of brands. And the message is relevant to brands across the spectrum — humble and post, inexpensive and premium, one-of-a-kind couture and dress-shirt common…
“It is by applying the lessons of Van Heusen and our other powerful brands…that we will orchestrate the symphony of Calvin Klein.”


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HUL contributes about 9%, or 4.5 billion euros, to the Anglo-Dutch company’s overall sales versus the US that accounts for 15%, or about 7.5 billion euros.
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday issued an ad interim injunction restraining the Baba Ramdev-owned company from airing the controversial advertisement.
It is looking to use the capital raised to fuel its branding efforts, new product development and expansion into offline sales channels like salons and supermarket chains.
As many as 56 executives at United Spirits (USL) took home more than Rs 1 crore in salary in the year ended March — against 52 in the previous year.
Business with CSD - which contributes up to 5-7% of sales for most FMCG companies -came to a standstill in June. and is still taking time to come to back to normalcy.
"We are planning to launch new variants within Dant Kanti — including aloe vera, fresh active gel and red toothpaste," spokesperson at Patanjali Ayurved said.
The company had reduced the prices of some of its detergents and soaps, extending the tax benefits it got under the GST regime to consumers.
Besides, demand for personal grooming products, including face cream, serums, hair gel, among others have seen uptrend, it said.
Sectoral leader HUL has come out all guns blazing in a naturals/herbals market.
Revenue for the quarter came in at Rs 9,094 crore, up 4.98 per cent YoY over Rs 8,662 crore reported in the same quarter last year.
Destocking in the weeks before the GST rollout is likely to dent growth numbers in June quarter.
The companies such as Patanjali, ITC, HUL and Marico are either slashing the prices of goods or increasing the grammage of the product on dispatches made from July 1 onwards.
Maruti Suzuki India saw its valuation slip by Rs 583.01 crore to Rs 2,18,038.37 crore.
Under the GST regime, tax credit system is reducing the absolute margins available to modern trade retailer and they are asking to retain at VAT level.
The companies have agreed to pass on the pre GST margins to the Kishore Biyani-led retail firm in the new tax regime starting from tomorrow except some small suppliers.
“If margins are not restored in absolute terms, then we will have to restrict shelf space and market shares of these companies,” said Kishore Biyani.
Reading about innovation strategies in textbooks is one thing and hearing about it from industry leaders is another.


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Centra is top winning convenience retailer at 2020 Great Taste Awards
22 September 2020 | 0
Convenience retailer, Centra, has claimed 35 accolades at this year’s Great Taste Awards, making it the number one award winning convenience retailer in Ireland.
Centra’s wins include 17 products from the Inspired By Centra range which helps make everyday moments special and includes something for everyone, ensuring that even if you are short on time, you don’t have to be short on taste or quality.
The Great Taste Awards, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, is the acknowledged benchmark for fine food and drink.
Inspired By Centra confirmed its position as the number one premium range in a convenience retailer with its 17 awards which includes Inspired By Centra Maple Syrup and Inspired By Centra Greek Feta, both were awarded two stars. Inspired By Centra 48 hour marinated Rotisserie Chicken, Inspired By Centra Raspberry Jam, Inspired By Centra Butter Chicken Masala, Inspired By Centra Buffalo Mozzarella, Inspired By Centra Freshly Squeezed OJ and Inspired By Centra Mini Mince Pies were all awarded one star awards.
Centra is known for its convenience and plenty of products that make life easier scooped awards including Centra Gourmet Sausage Roll with Black Pudding, Centra Crème Fraiche and Centra Ham and Brie Quiche.
“We are absolutely delighted to have taken home 35 accolades at this year’s Great Taste Awards,” said Ray Kelly, interim managing director, Centra.
“This is an incredible achievement and makes us the number one award winning convenience retailer in Ireland,” Kelly added. “As the world’s largest blind-tasted food awards, we are particularly proud of the wins for our Inspired By Centra range. Since its launch in 2018 the Inspired Range, which uses the highest quality home grown ingredients from trusted suppliers, has proved very popular with customers so we are thrilled to see the recognition of this through these awards.”
For more information of Centra’s achievements at the 2020 Great Taste Awards visit www.centra.ie.


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The ISP will raise the cost of the majority of home phone and broadband packages by 6.5 per cent on January 4, as part of its annual price review, the company admitted on Friday.
However, the launch of the BT Sport channel, which has the rights to 38 Premier League football games for the next three seasons, has reportedly cost the company in the region of £1 billion.
BT is offering the channels free to BT Broadband subscribers, but it appears that even those who're getting it free will be paying in one way or another.
In a statement given to the Guardian, BT denied the two were related. "These price changes are not linked to the launch of BT Sport.
"We revise our prices every year in what is an intensely competitive market and whilst some go up, others come down."
Only those who sign up for current deals or those on the new copper or fibre broadband connections launched in tandem with BT Sport will avoid the price hike.
For those who won't abide by the new charges, BT is offering users the opportunity to get out of their existing deals in ten days.


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The cars will be right-hand drive – also a first – and are aimed at business leaders and politicians who fear being kidnapped or car-jacked.
The E-class will be available from next summer, at the same time as the whole range gets a facelift. It will be available as the E350, E500 or E320 CDI diesel. Although there are no UK prices available yet, in Germany adding bullet-proof glass and bodywork loads €50,000 Euros (£35,000) onto the car’s cost.
The revamped standard E-class is expected to be unveiled at one of the major motor shows next year, probably Detroit or Geneva.
The protected S-class will go on sale through British dealers in late 2006. It will be based on the all-new car, unveiled at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show and to be launched here in March.
The car comes with the same extra features as the E-class, but there’s also a higher spec model that can withstand grenade attacks and high velocity military weapons. For security reasons, all cars are visually identical to the standard versions.


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Volkswagen Tiguan GTI Could Be In The Works
Volkswagen will be delivering an amped-up Tiguan R very soon with as much as 330 hp (246 kW) but a new report from CarBuzz suggests the hugely popular Tiguan lineup could also be set for a GTI variant.
Hein Schafer is the senior vice president for product marketing and strategy for VW’s USA division and in short, he reportedly said the company was always looking to find new options for engine efficiency and more horsepower.
That is not exactly concrete evidence that we could see a Tiguan GTI but it does seem to indicate that the door is definitely not shut.
If they are making a full-fat R version, it makes complete sense to offer the less potent less expensive GTI variant too.


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DSV opens new office in the US
We have added Pittsburgh to the list of US cities where we are present with an office.
Healthcare industry banks on logistics for safe, efficient and timely deliveries, notes Brazilian government official
Getting medicinal products from A to B in tamper-proof, cold-chain conditions requires highly efficient global supply chains. Logistics is essential for the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry, as commercial and regulatory experts increasingly realize. This was underlined by Brazilian authorities during the recent opening of Panalpina’s healthcare logistics center in Cajamar, São Paulo.
Partnership with Marimekko opens E-com doors in China
The Finnish design label Marimekko has been present with their own brick and mortar stores in China since 2012, but only recently opened their online shop in close collaboration with DSV.
One-stop-shopping in Krefeld, Germany is the key to further growth
In 2015, DSV in Germany merged all locations in the Dusseldorf area in Western Germany under one roof in Krefeld. That has improved customer service and it’s been conducive to business growth.
DSV opens new facility in the logistics centre of Turkey
A total of 45,000 square metres in Istanbul with state-of-the art warehousing located optimally for both air, sea, road and rail transports
Voted best fulfilment specialist for the 5th time in a row
Earlier this month, DSV’s European-based multi-channel fulfilment business was once again rated “best logistics service provider in e-business” by Emerce.
Building a gateway to Scandinavia
A new warehouse facility of 150,000m2 will become DSV’s largest logistics hub in Northern Europe.
Panalpina Brazil invests in cold chain logistics solutions
With extensive expertise in the healthcare and pharmaceuticals market and being recognized as one of the leading logistics operators in the country for this segment, Panalpina Brazil announces the expansion of its operations with a considerable investment in end-to-end logistics solutions for the cold chain.
Brexit: Panalpina is ready to uphold customers’ supply chains
Given the many Brexit challenges, Panalpina has set up a special task force to help customers find individual solutions. It also offers the following services to uphold customers' supply chains: tailored Air Freight solutions provided by the company's Charter Network, customs clearance and consulting, warehousing and other value-added logistics services, supply chain redesign and consulting.
Lubricating Shell’s supply chain in Singapore
Shell has awarded Panalpina a new warehouse management and distribution contract that will transform Shell’s supply chain in and out of Singapore into a full end-to-end operation. The new agreement with Shell goes in hand with Panalpina’s push for the further development of operations in Singapore and Asia-Pacific.


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We are a bi-monthly, not for profit community newspaper produced by local volunteers, the MDLC and Ferntree Gully Village Traders Inc.
- Car Park in Ferntree Gully Village?
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- Quarry Reserve – A Story of Community Action
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- The passing of historian Helen Coulson
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- Storm Recovery Support from Eastern Community Legal Centre
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Tag Archives: Village
The annual Ferntree Gully Food Trail, run by the Ferntree Gully Village Traders Association, will be launched in August 2022. This will be the second food trail run by the Traders Association and will include new activities and great deals … Continue reading
Concerns have been raised about a proposed car park in Ferntree Gully Village, which will have a major impact into the future. Continue reading
Perhaps it’s no surprise that we are seeing a rise in small shop alternatives to traditional supermarkets and coffee shops. Continue reading
A State Government Grant of $700,000 is set to tackle crime, graffiti and make our local community safer. Continue reading
These hidden gems are mapped out along the Foothills Art Trail, some hiding in plain sight, waiting for the discerning eye to seek them out. Continue reading
The new Station Street Organic Grocer has opened. On entry you are greeted by the owners Kat and Declan who make you feel instantly welcome… Continue reading
Ferntree Gully Arts Society is bringing art and the community together to experience a very different exhibition in the windows and on the walls of the local Ferntree Gully Village traders. Continue reading
Last year after months of lockdown during Covid-19, Ferntree Gully Village, like many local shopping precincts around Melbourne, seemed completely dead – with empty streets and no visitors. Anne Boyd thought: how do we get people back into Ferntree Gully … Continue reading
When: 26th March – 18th April The Ferntree Gully Food Trail around the Village shops gives everyone an opportunityto extend shopping habits, try out a new taste, a new takeaway, a coffee spot, bakery or bar. Funded by Knox … Continue reading


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(ECNS) -- A Chinese blogger who moved to the United States shared a video on overseas social media platforms, stating that she purchased a gasoline tricycle as a Christmas gift for her father-in-law. Priced at around $600, her father-in-law praised the gift endlessly upon receiving it.
The gasoline tricycle can be equipped with regular tires for urban commuting with passengers or off-road tires to serve as a utility vehicle for tasks such as transporting fodder, sand, or towing cars.
It is versatile, easy to use, charges quickly, and is robust and durable.
On the social media platform, videos show the versatility of the tricycle, capable of carrying goods, transporting people, and performing various tasks.
According to a sales representative from a gasoline tricycle manufacturer, their overseas sales are showing a significant upward trend. Consumers can customize battery capacity, carriage length, and vehicle roof according to their needs, with the products then shipped to export warehouses.
Why are they favored by overseas consumers? In the view of Zhang Xiang, an auto sector researcher at the North China University of Technology, domestically produced gasoline tricycles have a triple advantage of low price, good quality, and mature technology. Compared to foreign countries, China has a large rural population, and a broad audience for tricycles, making the technology more mature and the industry well-supported.
Zhang said most domestically produced two-wheelers and gasoline tricycles have intelligent network connectivity, allowing them to connect to smartphones for features like automatic unlocking and positioning.
"These features are not available abroad, and China-produced tricycles attract overseas consumers to try something new," Zhang said.
"China's intelligent products have matured significantly after more than a decade of development and have strong competitiveness internationally," Zhang added.
In his view, the rise of artificial intelligence technology brings tremendous industrial opportunities, and strengthening exports can effectively alleviate the risks of related overcapacity, which is of great positive significance.


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For years, Spotify has dominated the music-streaming market, but all of that could change after this week’s splashy press conference for Tidal, the latest streaming platform available in the U.S. The company was acquired by Jay Z when he purchased Aspiro in February for around $56 million; shareholders include Kanye West, Madonna, Beyoncé, Usher, Rihanna, Daft Punk, and Jack White, to name a few. Its key selling point, in addition to its star power, is lossless CD-quality sound for $20 a month. It’s a feature and price that artists will love but the average music listener can probably live without. If Tidal is going to distinguish itself as a leader, it needs more than hi-fi sound at the most expensive rate in the market — it has to convert young consumers who are used to getting something for nothing.
It’s a code the industry has been trying to crack since Napster, and Hov isn’t going to solve it overnight. In the meantime, Tidal plans to stifle its competition by offering exclusive content. Two of the artists behind this year’s most highly anticipated records — Rihanna and Kanye West of Roc Nation, also owned by Jay Z — are Tidal shareholders. There are rumors their next albums, and possibly a joint album between Beyoncé and Jay Z, will be released exclusively through Tidal. Alicia Keys has already released exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from her concerts. More will come in the coming months. Tidal also offers 75,000 HD commercial-free videos, and exclusive interviews and features curated by staff. All of this gives the company a leg up on Beats Music, whose Jimmy Iovine has been aggressively courting artists and labels for exclusives in time for Apple’s relaunch this summer. To sweeten the deal, Tidal, originally launched as a premium-only service for audiophiles, much like Deezer Elite, now offers a $10 version. That’s pretty good, but it’s not free.
Last year, ad-supported streaming increased by 34 percent, outpacing paid subscriptions by about 10 percent, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. In January, Spotify reported only 15 million paid subscribers, dwarfed by the 60 million active users who enjoy the free version. Ad-supported options are devastating for royalties (some artists are paid a fraction of a penny per stream.) In 2013, Spotify made $1 billion in revenue. Over 90 percent of its sales that year came from paid subscriptions, roughly $987 million. Only $90 million came from advertising. This bleak ratio has hindered the company’s ability to pay higher royalties to record labels. Spotify has yet to report a profit. When Apple launches its new streaming service this summer, it may not do any better, but as the Times pointed out, Apple can afford to fail. $1 billion is one half of one percent of the company’s annual $183 billion revenue.
In a way, Tidal has much more to lose: “We’re not even against other streaming companies,” Jay Z told Billboard. “We want everyone to do well. We just want to carve out our section and let our voice be heard.” Item No. 1 is to make sure artists are fairly compensated for their work.
Thus, Tidal’s press conference this week felt more like a plea than a presentation. Several of the biggest pop stars in the world stood onstage, hats in hand, to humbly ask fans to get behind their artist-friendly mission and “reestablish the value of music” by actually paying for it. One by one, they scribbled their names down on the Tidal “declaration,” a symbolic gesture meant to suggest we were witnessing the beginning of a new era for music. And maybe we are. Maybe streaming is the final frontier, or, as Hov put it, “the last music format that we see in this lifetime.” Consumers now have more options than ever to choose from, and the influx of competition is a good thing; it will inspire innovation and force companies to address the shortcomings of the status quo.
Tidal, as evidenced by its #TIDALforAll social media campaign, is not only a streaming service, it’s a rallying cry. It aims to prove music shouldn’t be free and that the current model isn’t sustainable. It wants to educate a new generation of listeners about the importance of quality sound even when their ears aren’t keen enough to recognize it. Whether or not Tidal will reach those young listeners remains to be seen. Noticeably absent from its list of high-powered shareholders was 25-year-old Taylor Swift, whose outspoken opposition to Spotify’s ad-supported service last year has arguably become the single most influential moment in the streaming debate. Swift did not turn her social-media avatar blue, as others did, in support of Tidal’s official launch earlier this week, but her catalogue won’t be found among Spotify’s 30 million tracks, either. Point, Tidal.


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NVIDIA’s Android TV-based digital media player, the SHIELD TV is getting the biggest discount we’ve seen to date just for Amazon Prime Day. It’s hard to believe that Amazon and NVIDIA will continue to offer the same discount after June 22, so if you’re looking for a reliable Android set-top box, the SHIELD TV is one of the best on the market.What makes SHIELD TV a great product is that NVIDIA continues to support the media player many years after the original model made it to market. The model that Amazon has on sale right now was launched back in 2019 and fully supports 4K HDR streaming.
Typically, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV sells for $150, but during Amazon Prime Day, customers will score a $25 discount. Although the Android TV media player was part of many promotions in the past, this is one of the best offers we’ve been able to track until now.


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Chinese, Korean, and Japanese business school students to gather in Japan to analyze businesses for the Asia Business Field Study (July 7–July 14) “Productivity in the service industry－is Japanese hospitality profitable?”
July 3, 2018 Keio University
The Keio University Graduate School of Business Administration (KBS) has been offering the Asia Business Field Study (CKJ program) as one of the courses on its master’s program since 2012. This program is a fieldwork-based course on which students from business schools in China and Korea, and KBS students, visit businesses, etc., in the host nation with the objective of having discussions with their management, and based on the provided theme, analyze the businesses, identify problems, and make recommendations. In 2018, the program will be held in Japan, and students will analyze businesses such as inns in Yamanaka Onsen (Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture) and those in transportation, food and drink, and logistics under the theme of “Productivity in the service industry—is Japanese hospitality profitable?”
We invite members of the press to cover KBS’s efforts to foster the future generation of global leaders.


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The sale was vehemently opposed by Humm founder, director, and largest shareholder Andrew Abercrombie – who the resigning members of the board now reject working beside.
The Humm share price plunged almost 4% to 50.5 cents in early trading today before regaining ground to 51 cents at the time of writing.
Let's take a closer look at what might be weighing on the finance and buy now, pay later (BNPL) provider's stock today.
Humm share price slumps amid board resignations
The Humm share price is sinking on Wednesday. Its tumble comes after the company announced its chair and all directors – except Abercrombie – are stepping down.
It follows last week's news that the sale of Humm's BNPL business to Latitude Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: LFS) had fallen through. Its termination was said to be due to "major disruption in financial markets".
"The events leading to the termination of the proposed sale of Humm Consumer Finance to Latitude Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: LFS) … have caused the majority directors of Humm … to conclude that they cannot remain on the board of directors with Andrew Abercrombie," the company said in a release to the ASX this morning.
The release detailed the immediate resignation of directors Alistair Muir and John Wylie.
Meanwhile, Humm chair Christine Christian and directors Carole Campbell and Rajeev Dhawan will resign when replacement directors are appointed.
The company noted the gradual handover would allow the company to "deal with the challenges and opportunities ahead".
Abercrombie labelled the now deceased deal – that would see the company's BNPL leg sold to Latitude – a "dud" and "nothing but a garage sale".
That's despite Humm noting the business hadn't turned a profit in 2022 and risks the company's share price.
Board unanimous 'excluding one lone dissenting director'
The board further outlined its position regarding the failed sale in a letter to shareholders last night that accused Abercrombie of undertaking "a strident campaign against the proposed sale". The board went on to say:
The majority directors have been prepared to act to secure [the sale] despite multiple aggressively worded private threats of legal action against us personally from Andrew Abercrombie.
[T]his was the entire board of highly experienced people acting unanimously in all these decisions, excluding one lone dissenting director.
Humm's stock has struggled this year. It has fallen 45% year to date. It's also 50% lower than it was this time last year.


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A former Covid testing centre could be knocked down after being earmarked as the “only” site in Aberdeen suitable for a new drive-thru McDonald’s.
Rosehill Day Care Centre, on Ashgrove Road West, played a vital role in the pandemic as a walk-through facility when it opened last summer.
Now, people could be stopping by for meals-to-go instead of a lateral flow.
McDonald’s has applied for permission to knock down the three-storey Rosehill House to make way for the restaurant.
The global fast food giant says the “multi-million-pound” project can not be completed anywhere else in the Granite City.
Where would new McDonald’s be built?
The building was formerly a centre for autistic adults, but Aberdeen City Council put it on the market after an improved £4.3 million replacement opened in 2017.
The site lies on the junction with Anderson Drive and sits next to the SSE headquarters.
The proposed location is also close to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and Aberdeenshire Council headquarters Woodhill House.
Rosehill House site: Why is McDonalds lovin it?
Planning documents reveal that McDonald’s had assessed other sites in the city for the new drive-thru…
But bosses found reasons to rule out Cornhill shopping centre, Woodside and the Haudagain retail park.
And they said: “There are no available, suitable, or viable sites within the centre, or indeed in the wider surrounding area, suitable for a drive-thru restaurant.”
If the plan is approved, it would be the fast food chain’s sixth restaurant in the city.
There are already venues at Bridge of Don, Kittybrewster, Bucksburn, Union Street and Garthdee.
Covid testing centre demolition would make space for 120 new McDonald’s jobs
McDonald’s say the proposal is a “multi-million pound investment” in Aberdeen and would allow the firm to “meet customer demand and introduce additional choice in the market”.
The new restaurant is expected to employ more than 120 full and part-time staff if approved by the local authority.
It would have seating for 76 diners and an outdoor play area for youngsters to “climb and explore”.
A total of 50 car parking spaces has also been proposed along with provision for motorbikes and bicycles.
You can see the application for yourself here.


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Talpa, the production company run by The Voice creator John de Mol, has set up a group of joint ventures that will see the company produce on location across several major European territories.
The new companies include Talpa UK, a joint venture with Shed Media; Talpa Italia, a cooperation with Toro TV and Talpa Nordic, which will see the company work together with Nordisk FilmTV and Banijay Finland. Talpa UK will be based in London, Talpa Italia in Rome and Talpa Nordic in Copenhagen.
The deals will see the three new operations become the exclusive local producers of Talpa formats – including hit The Voice. The move will give Talpa and De Mol more control over how it rolls out new formats in Europe. In the U.S., Talpa already produces The Voice under its own banner – Talpa Media USA.
The new joint ventures will all coordinate operations with Maarten Meijs, managing director of Dutch-based Talpa International.
“In producing our formats, we’re used to working as co-producers together with local parties all over the world,” said Pim Schmitz, CEO of Talpa Holding. “What we’re now doing in the U.K., Italy and the Northern European countries goes a step further. Talpa will now produce under its own brand, and for us that’s an important milestone in terms of the company’s international growth.”
In addition to the Emmy-winning The Voice, Talpa’s catalog of formats includes The Voice Kids, I Love My Country, The Winner Is…, Dating in the Dark and newly-launched reality show Utopia.
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Glam Media is telling its publishing partners to expect slower payments given the grim online advertising climate.
Glam told publishing partners it would now take up to four months to pay them instead of the usual 60-90 days. The extra time will permit some of Glam's advertisers to stave off default, it said, and will also give the women's content and ad network a bit of extra earned interest income from the extended float on payments it does receive on a timely basis.
"Please be advised that to better prepare for the current financial situation, Glam anticipates a significant slow down in collection payments from advertisers," Glam said in the email. "Therefore we will need to align the expected timing of payments from advertisers with the payments we make to our publishers."
Glam said the payment amounts would remain the same despite the delays.
Delayed payments are fairly standard in publishing, both online and in traditional media. But Glam's switch to a longer payment time frame could have an impact on publishers, who will now miss 2-4
months of revenue as they wait to see earnings on ads that may already be dwindling from the stalled economy.
Glam's email to publishers, from TechCrunch, after the jump.


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VOL. 130 | NO. 145 | Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Bedrock Eats & Sweets Opens Downtown
By Andy Meek
One of the newest additions to the Downtown dining scene is a healthy eating option that Brandi Marter has expanded from a commercial kitchen in YoLo’s Midtown location to now a space of her own.
Bedrock Eats & Sweets, which helps customers eat better by selling healthy, pre-made meals, has opened a market and cafe Downtown, in the former Frank’s Market & Deli space at 327 S. Main.
(Bedrock Eats & Sweets)
Marter’s Bedrock Eats & Sweets, which got started back in 2013 as a way for people to order pre-made healthy meals, has moved into the former Frank’s Market & Deli space, at 327 S. Main. Marter, an avid Crossfit athlete, signed a lease for the space earlier this year after scouting potential locations beyond Downtown, including on Broad Avenue.
“That was a serious consideration,” Marter said about the possibility of setting up shop in the burgeoning Broad neighborhood. “But really, because we live off the meal delivery and the grab-and-go kiosks, I was able to pick a location that I’d just want to hang out in – a part of town I thought I could spend 17 hours a day in and be okay.”
It was probably inevitable she’d end up being pulled to the South Main district as the eventual spot for her first restaurant location. Her ties to the neighborhood include having a friend who owns Downtown Yoga, as well as routinely finding herself in the neighborhood for a variety of reasons over the course of a day.
Bedrock’s new Downtown spot, which has an open kitchen and 13 tables for eat-in dining, occupies 1,800 square feet – most of which, Marter laughs, is comprised of the back and basement.
It’s a tiny spot, which belies Marter’s big ambition. She wants to fundamentally change not just what people eat but their habits around eating, telling The Daily News not long after she first got the venture up and running in 2013: “You don’t want people to not eat this way because it’s inconvenient. It’s important for people to eat like this.”
The Bedrock concept is based on “real foods” and an aversion to anything processed and refined, making it amenable to patrons on a paleo or so-called “whole foods” diet. Marter started cooking out of the YoLo Midtown kitchen where she was a pastry chef. From there she launched a website that sold prepared meals.
Today, the business posts menus one week in advance. Customers place orders for next week’s meals by Friday. Meals are prepared fresh each day, and Bedrock sources organic fruit, local vegetables, and grass-fed, free-range protein.
Now, Marter has added a new flavor to Bedrock in the form of its Downtown presence, which affords everything from cafe service to use of the kitchen to boost production.
Marter said she has slightly fewer than 10 employees now and may add a few more over the coming weeks. She’s also in the process of getting a food manufacturing permit, which, she said, means Bedrock could put things out in grocery stores, among other things.
“There are lots and lots of possibilities. I’m just kind of trying to narrow them down right now,” Marter said. “Of course, right now I just want to concentrate on making this one as good as I can make it and from there move forward and see what the next logical step would be.”


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Some Kia owners question anti-theft software fix after cars were stolen following upgrade
The Center for Auto Safety is the nation’s premier independent, member driven, non-profit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to improving vehicle safety, quality, and fuel economy on behalf of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Michael Brooks, with the Center for Auto Safety, says these solutions aren’t enough. He’s among those calling for the feds to take action.
“Basically, they say there is a criminal act that has taken place that kind of lets Hyundai and Kia off the hook. We don’t agree with that,” Brooks said.
By Susan Hogan, News 4 Consumer Investigative Reporter, Katies Leslie, Jeff Piper, and Steve Jones
July 24, 2023
Marie Guerrero Pincheria and her husband, Jorge, don’t have TikTok, but they certainly have heard of the viral “Kia Boyz” social media challenge linked to a rise in thefts of Kias and Hyundais nationwide.
That’s why the Maryland couple booked an appointment at the dealership earlier this year when Kia offered a free fix: an anti-theft software it said would prevent thieves from hotwiring their car with a USB cord.
But just three months after having the software installed in their 2020 Kia Sportage – and anti-theft stickers placed on its windows – their car was stolen from outside their home.
“I was like, Kia, did you just put these stickers on or did you really do something? Or is the software not what you think it is?” Marie Guerrero Pincheria said.
She’s among a handful of Kia owners interviewed by the I-Team who question whether the software fix is enough to protect their cars. Meanwhile, the manufacturer says the software, which requires vehicles to be locked to function properly, is working as designed.


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GENERAL SANTOS CITY(MindaNews/10 September)— Direct trade exchange between Mindanao and North Sulawesi in Indonesia remains stalled due to the lack of cargo vessel to service the shipping lane.
Rey Billena, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry governor for Southwestern Mindanao, revealed that they are looking for investors to provide the cargo vessel after Indonesia barred its boat to ply the Davao-General Santos-Bitung route.
He said the Indonesian Consulate in Davao informed them that Jakarta objected to utilizing the vessel given to Talaud Island, as agreed earlier, to service the two BIMP-EAGA areas.
BIMP EAGA stands for Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area, a cooperation formed in 1994 to accelerate the growth of less developed areas of the participating member countries. Mindanao and Palawan in Luzon are the Philippines’ focus area for BIMP-EAGA.
“The vessel was acquired 20 years ago by the Indonesian government for Talaud Island to ferry its constituents. Also, there’s difficulty in converting it (into a cargo vessel),” Billena said in an interview on Wednesday.
He did not give a definite date when the Mindanao-North Sulawesi trade could begin, noting the lack of ship to service it even as he claimed that the “Philippine side is ready for its part of the action.”
Billena, one of the local business leaders actively involved in working to start the trade exchange between Mindanao and North Sulawesi, said they are hoping to find investors who can provide the ship to ply the route soon.
The shipping route needs a vessel with a gross register tonnage of 2,500, or one that can carry 120 container vans, he said.
The Davao-General Santos-Bitung sea route, which was supposed to start June last year, seeks to enhance connectivity to boost trade exchange in the BIMP-EAGA.
Billena said that the Davao-General Santos-Bitung sea route, whose servicing is also strongly pushed by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), would significantly reduce the cost of transporting goods between these points.
Currently, products from North Sulawesi going to the cities of Davao or General Santos have to pass through Jakarta and Manila, and vice versa.
Billena said producers could save as much as “40 percent in logistical expenses and 60 percent in travel lead time” with the Davao-General Santos-Bitung route.
General Santos and Bitung are just 350 nautical miles apart, he said.
Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, MinDA chair, said the direct shipping route can offer savings of as much as US$1,650 per 20-foot container for traders.
Citing a study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, shipping rate for the Davao-General Santos-Bitung route would cost only US$550 per 20-foot container, she said.
The agreement to operationalize the Mindanao-North Sulawesi shipping service was sealed in Jakarta in April 2014 by the representatives of the Indonesian shipping line PT Kanaka, the North Minahasa Chamber of Commerce of Indonesia, Philippine-based cargo company ARREE Freight Express and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)


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Staples, Inc. recently announced it has named Steve Matyas president of North American retail. He previously had been president of Staples Canada/Bureau en Gros since July 2000, and will continue to serve as a member of the company’s executive committee.
“Steve has over 25 years of deep experience leading Staples Canada and a proven track record of delivering profitable growth and innovation,” says Shira Goodman, interim CEO of Staples, Inc. “Realigning our retail leadership will strengthen our position as we continue to right size our store network and evolve to meet the changing needs of business customers.”
Matyas joined Business Depot Ltd. in Canada as its first employee in March 1991. He has also served as vice-president of operations, human resources and store planning, and vice-president of sales and operations.


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WASHINGTON – While failing to seal a deal on his ambitious plan to expand trade in the Pacific Rim, President Obama on Thursday said a long-stalled trade pact still can be finalized if Japan opens its markets and accepts more U.S. exports of everything from cars to farm goods.
“That’s my bottom line, and I can’t accept anything else,” Obama said at a news conference in Tokyo.
After meeting privately with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the president said that “important progress” had been made in trying to wrap up the deal, adding: “I continue to believe we can get this done.”
In Washington, opponents celebrated the lack of a final agreement of the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership, known as the TPP, Obama’s effort to broker the largest trade pact in U.S. history.
After many setbacks, “TPP should be ready for burial,” said Lori Wallach, director of Public Citizens Global Trade Watch, a group that opposes the deal.
U.S. business groups, which have lobbied for the trade agreement for four years, vowed to press on.
“The talks are alive and well, with more to be done, and they will be done,” said Cal Cohen, president of the Emergency Committee for American Trade, a group of leading U.S. international business enterprises promoting the trade pact. He added the negotiations “are a marathon, not a sprint.”
U.S. officials said more talks are expected in May.
Negotiators for the United States and Japan had scrambled to try to close a deal in advance of Obama’s four-nation visit to Asia, leading to high expectations on both sides.
In the end, the details again proved too intractable.
While exact minutia of the talks remain private, one of the biggest hurdles remaining is getting Japan and the United States to agree on tariffs for cars and crops.
In the United States, critics worry that Obama’s trade negotiators may lower or abandon automobile tariffs to win greater access to Japan’s markets for beef and pork, rice, dairy, sugar and wheat products. That would allow more Japanese cars to enter the U.S. at lower cost, angering the domestic auto industry.
At his news conference, Obama said it was time for the two nations to take “bold steps” to reach an agreement.
“There are always political sensitivities in any kind of trade discussions,” Obama said. “Prime Minister Abe has got to deal with his politics. I’ve got to deal with mine.”
But the president added: “All of us have to move out of our comfort zones and not just expect that we’re going to get access to somebody else’s market without providing access to our own.”
U.S. officials view the proposed deal as a potential gold mine for American businesses, with the 12 countries representing 40 percent of the global gross domestic product. And they say the opportunities will only grow, with Asia’s middle-class population, now at 500 million, set to explode in coming years.
Opponents fear the deal will chase more American jobs overseas and only benefit corporations.
“It’s going to take more than a market-access deal with Japan for the TPP to become anything but dead on arrival in the U.S. Congress,” said Arthur Stamoulis, executive director of the Citizens Trade Campaign, a coalition of labor, environmental, farm, consumer and human rights groups opposed to the pact.


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Nouriel Roubini is at it again, calls crypto decentralization a “myth”
October 8, 2018
Nouriel Roubini, a noticeable economic expert as well as professor at New York University’s Stern College of Company goes to it once again. In his most current tweet, he fired ...
Coinbase announces support for trading Bitcoin and other cryptos using British Pounds (GBP)
September 6, 2018
Earlier this month, cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase introduced that they would be turning out British pounds (GBP) assistance for their UK-based clients. Adding to it, Coinbase revealed on Thursday that they’re ...
Menlo micro raises $18.7 million funding from GE Ventures
Allstate Corporation acquired square trade for 1.4billion dollars
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What a privilege to have legendary fourth generation distiller Eddie Russell of Wild Turkey stop by the shop. Eddie has been involved in the Wild Turkey Distillery for almost 30 years. About a decade ago he collaborated with his father, Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, to create the “Russell’s Reserve” line of products. Which included a 10 year bourbon, a 6 year rye, and more recently a 55% (110 proof) single barrel bourbon that I’d highly recommend trying next time you see it.
Wild Turkey has been working on building a much larger facility the last five years to keep up with the increased global demand for their products. Eddie told me one of the best aspects of the expansion has been the addition of a bottling line, which used to be completely outsourced. Not having a bottling line on site increased the time it took to get the finished bourbon to market and also added additional layers of costs. Another benefit of having a bottling line is that they can now begin a private selection program for accounts like us, allowing retail shops or bars to choose their own single barrel and have it bottled just for them. He figures the private barrel program is likely to come to fruition early next year.
A couple special releases to look forward to this coming winter are:
-A very limited older bourbon to commemorate Jimmy Russell’s 60 years with the distillery.
-A really unique blend of a bourbon and rye that I’m told happened by accident.
Both sounded amazing, releases we’ll definitely be looking for closer to the holiday season. Cheers


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2018: Cyber Monday hit $6 billion in digital spending in 2018, according to Comscore. That’s a 28% uptick year over year. This year, the pattern of Black Friday and Cyber Monday blurred even more, with some retailers’ “Black Friday” and “Cyber” sales overlapping each other during Thanksgiving weekend.
How much money has Cyber Monday made?
Holiday shoppers went online Monday and spent $10.8 billion, setting a record for the largest U.S. internet shopping day ever, according to Adobe Analytics data.
Is Cyber Monday really worth it?
If you’re asking, “Is Cyber Monday worth it?” the short answer is yes! … So these Monday offers are certainly worth checking out. For one thing, retailers typically offer sitewide coupons on Cyber Monday. Even better, the coupons often stack, resulting in excellent price lows.
Was Cyber Monday 2020 a success?
Adobe expects Cyber Monday 2020 to become the largest online sales day in history, with spending between $10.8 billion (15% year-over-year growth) and $12.7 billion (35% year over year growth). People wear masks due to COVID-19 as they shop on Black Friday in Rehoboth Beach, Del., Nov.
How was Cyber Monday Sales 2020?
Cyber Monday 2020 is expected to break more records and keep its top spot as the busiest online shopping day, with shoppers expected to spend as much as $12.7 billion or 35% more than in 2019, Adobe said.
Why is it called Cyber Monday?
In the 2005 press release that debuted the term “Cyber Monday,” the NRF credited faster internet connections at work and online retailers wanting to attract holiday shoppers as the impetus behind this new trend. In other words, online merchants wanted the money brick-and-mortar stores were making on Black Friday.
Is Cyber Monday better than Black Friday?
When it comes to Black Friday versus Cyber Monday, there’s a lot to consider. A solid rule of thumb is that Black Friday is a better time to buy newer, big-ticket items. It’s also the best day to shop in stores, though you can also shop online. Cyber Monday is a better day to shop for tech deals and smaller gifts.
Is Black Friday actually cheaper?
Is Black Friday really cheaper?” The good news is Black Friday is absolutely worth all the hype. Almost everything you can think of goes on sale in some capacity, with the best discounts being 50% or higher. Even Apple items — which practically never go on sale — see significant discounts during Black Friday.
What are the best items to buy on Cyber Monday?
4 things that are better to buy on Cyber Monday
- Speakers. Whether you’re looking for a full sound system or a portable Bluetooth speaker, Cyber Monday will provide great opportunities to save. …
- Toys. We expect to see more toy deals on Cyber Monday than on Thanksgiving or Black Friday. …
- Clothing. …
- Laptops (sometimes)
What are good deals for Cyber Monday?
Best Cyber Monday computer and tablet deals
- HP 15-inch 2-in-1 Laptop – $799.99 (Save $200).
- Lenovo 11-inch 2-in-1 Chromebook – $179 (Save $100).
- HP 11-inch Chromebook – $149 (Save $70).
- Asus 14-inch Gaming Laptop – $1,199.99 (Save $250).
- LG 27-inch IPS LED 4K Monitor with HDR – $279.99 (Save $150).
How did Black Friday Go 2020?
Black Friday 2020 was always going to be different. Masks, socially distanced lines, limited foot traffic in stores — Black Friday this year was different both structurally and visually. This year, retailers collectively blew up the traditional start to the holiday shopping season.
How did Black Friday Sales 2020?
Black Friday 2020 online shopping surges 22% to record $9 billion, Adobe says. Consumers spent $9 billion on the web the day after Thanksgiving, up 21.6% year over year, according to data from Adobe Analytics. … Cyber Monday 2020 is expected to become the biggest digital sales day in history in the United States.
What are the cyber 5 days?
The Cyber 5 period—Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday—brings in record shoppers and sales for many retailers. And this year was no different. For some retailers, it’s the most important time of the year, as they’ve spent months preparing for the influx of shoppers.
What stores are doing Cyber Monday 2020?
Cyber Monday 2020 deals by store
- Amazon Cyber Monday deals.
- Apple Cyber Monday deals.
- Best Buy Cyber Monday deals.
- Kohl’s Cyber Monday deals.
- Macy’s Cyber Monday deals.
- Target Cyber Monday deals.
- Walmart Cyber Monday deals.
- Wayfair Cyber Monday deals.
Is there Cyber Monday 2020?
Cyber Monday 2020 is on 30 November.
What stores are doing Cyber Monday?
The Top 9 Stores for the Best Cyber Monday Deals in 2020
- Dell Home and Dell Technologies.
- Home Depot.


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If you were an employee of Facebook (NAS: FB) sitting on millions of dollars of paper wealth, how would you feel about the stock's plunge since its IPO? If you're like me, you'd be waiting for the chance to turn those paper dollars into real dollars by dumping shares as fast as you can. Soon, inside investors and employees will get their wish, and the rest of us should be very aware of what it means for us.
In less than a week, some Facebook insiders will get their chance as the lockup period ends for some shares post-IPO. On Aug. 16, about 271 million shares will be able to be sold by insiders, except for Mark Zuckerberg. Another 243 million will be available to be sold between Oct. 15 and Nov. 13. On Nov. 14, the floodgates open and 1.2 billion shares will be freed. Keep in mind that the IPO sold only 180 million shares, so in a week the float will increase substantially.
These are surprisingly important days for investors in IPOs, especially those with a small float. When employees and other investors who were locked up get their chance, they often dump shares, causing the stock price to dive.
When the recent IPOs of Tesla Motors (NAS: TSLA) , Zipcar (NAS: ZIP) , Groupon (NAS: GRPN) , and LinkedIn (NYS: LNKD) hit their IPO lockup period expiration, the stocks all fell as shares flooded the market. These didn't have the same staggered lockup like Facebook and instead had a more traditional 180-day lockup.
Date Lockup Period Ended
Share Performance Day After Lockup
Share Performance 1-Month Before Lockup
Dec. 27, 2010
Oct. 11, 2011
June 1 2012
Nov. 21, 2011
What's interesting to note is that shares also plunged in the month leading up to the lockup expiration as investors anticipated the flood of shares. This could be another factor helping drive shares of Facebook south over the next three months.
Incentive to sell
The majority of Facebook's shares will be able to be sold on Nov. 13, and there is a huge tax incentive to sell before Jan. 1. That's when the long-term capital gains tax will go from 15% to as high as 25% if the Bush-era tax cuts aren't extended.
Whether investors bought shares in a funding round or got them through working at Facebook, this is an extra incentive to sell their stock.
Get out while you can
The history of stock performances after lockups end is mixed, so if I were interested in buying shares I wouldn't be afraid to just because shares dive leading up to Nov. 14. Zipcar rose 6% in the moth following the lockup, while Tesla and Groupon declined slightly. What I would be very wary of is loading up on shares now with a tsunami of Facebook shares hitting the market in the next three months.
Foolish bottom line
There are nuances of the market that investors, especially retail investors, should be aware of and often aren't. The IPO lockup is one of those nuances, and it has a huge impact on how a stock trades and performs around the lockup date.
The shares coming to the market, combined with Facebook's uninspiring financial performance, are enough for me to think shares will underperform the market over the next six months, and I'll back it up with a CAPScall on My CAPS page. You can see the rest of my picks.
For an in-depth look at Facebook and why investors will want to own shares eventually, check out our analyst report on the stock. It comes with a year of updates when big events happen. Get your copy of the report.
The article The Date All Facebook Investors Should Dread originally appeared on Fool.com.
Fool contributorTravis Hoiumhas no position in any company mentioned. You can follow Travis on Twitter at@FlushDrawFool, check out hispersonal stock holdings, or follow his CAPS picks atTMFFlushDraw.The Motley Fool owns shares of Facebook, LinkedIn, Tesla Motors, and Zipcar.Motley Fool newsletter serviceshave recommended buying shares of LinkedIn, Tesla Motors, Zipcar, and Facebook. We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe thatconsidering a diverse range of insightsmakes us better investors. Try any of our Foolish newsletter servicesfree for 30 days. The Motley Fool has adisclosure policy.
Copyright © 1995 - 2012 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.


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Not sure which of your smartphones to launch first in a market in which you are making a comeback? Let your social media fans decide for you.
Lenovo has unveiled social media campaign moto VOTE in mainland China asking Internet users to pick their favourite Moto X look.
Lenovo announced in a blog post yesterday that it will be relaunching Motorola mobile phones in the mainland early next month.
When Motorola Mobility was still owned by Google, it had pulled out of China in December 2012.
The Motorola blog post published yesterday said, "Chinese consumers have long been at the leading edge of smartphone use, blazing trails in mobile messaging, media and more."
"With the Lenovo acquisition complete, Motorola is returning to China."
The Moto X will be offered first in early February, in time for Chinese New Year, while two new Motorola smartphones will be made available at a later date.
The most popular materials and colours selected by users participating in the moto VOTE campaign will be unveiled first in the market.
Ending on 26 January, the campaign runs on WeChat and Weibo.
On WeChat, users vote for their favourite material and colour for the back of the smartphone through an interactive mini-app.
[gallery link="file" ids="79227,79225,79226"]
The graphics in the mini-app leading up to the actual poll is heavily branded.
[gallery link="file" ids="79235,79234,79236"]
After taking part in the poll, users are told how their chosen look ranks among other participants and the three most popular looks so far.
As an incentive to encourage people to take part in the WeChat poll, users who have voted and followed Motorola's official WeChat account are given the chance to win a Moto X phone featuring the most popular look.
The Weibo part of the campaign is much more about sharing the news of the poll and the brand's relaunch.
PC and mobile users are asked to follow Motorola's official Weibo account and re-tweet the brand's Weibo post about the poll for a chance to win a Moto X phone.
The idea of customisation will go beyond the campaign. After Chinese New Year, Lenovo will launch its digital design tool Moto Maker, which allows users to customise the look of Moto X virtually, in mainland China.
Moto Maker was first launched in the US in August 2013 and the UK last September.


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Following a series of federal raids on and around Los Angeles' historic Fashion District, earlier this week, it’s come to light that the notorious Sinaloa drug cartel has been using wholesale fashion store fronts as a way to launder and transfer criminally-earned money back to Mexico.
Since 2010, when Mexico limited the amount of U.S. currency that can be deposited in their banks, exchanges and brokerage accounts, the cartels have been hard pressed to find ways to get their drug dealing, and related criminal activities, earnings from the states back into their possession in Mexico, without alerting authorities.
However, as is usually the case with hugely successful criminal enterprises, it looks like they managed to find a way. Taking a page from the good old Colombian drug cartel king, Pablo Escobar's 1980s’ Miami money laundering tactics guide book, the Sinaloa drug lords starting utilizing wholesale retail businesses to funnel their dirty cash and then return it, nice and clean, back to Mexico.
It worked like this, black market peso brokers would contact legitimate businesses south of the border and broker deals to import clothing goods from LA. Once a deal was struck, the peso brokers would contact a U.S. based cartel employee and they would pay the cost of the order in cash dollars to one of the LA Fashion District wholesalers. Meanwhile, the importer in Mexico would transfer the order amount into the broker’s account, in pesos—the broker would then take their cut and pay the remainder to the cartel.
And, bingo! Just like that the dirty dollars became clean pesos in the cartel’s grubby hands and Mexican bank accounts.
One of the businesses being utilized by the cartel was QT Fashion, a maternity clothing store in downtown LA, which helped facilitate the laundering of $140,000 in ransom money paid by a cartel hostage’s American family in order to secure his release.
And, they would have got away with it if it wasn’t for those pesky law-enforcement dudes!
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents had been monitoring the laundering operation for some time, before going undercover—infiltrating black market peso brokerages, and approaching the suspected Fashion District stores with bundles of shrink-rapped, blood spattered cash they claimed had come from drug trafficking and needed laundering. According to the agents, nobody even blinked at their request, and willingly took the dirty dosh.
The FBI became involved in the operation following the kidnap ransom payment, and, when they finally gathered enough intel they struck— conducting dramatic raids of 75 LA area locations on Thursday.
According to the LA Times, the raids resulted in nine arrests and the seizure of $90million—$70million of that in cold hard cash.
During one of the raids, on a condo, Feds uncovered a whopping $35 million packed inside banker boxes piled in a bedroom—in another, at a Bel-Air mansion, they discovered $10 million stuffed inside of a duffel bag


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Ah, summer. Let's see. Basking in the sun is out because of skin cancer. Those mosquitoes could be carrying the West Nile virus. And the steaks sizzling on the grill, sending their smoky aroma into the air, could be culinary cancer causers. It's enough to make you want to stay inside.
But wait: Isn't cooking indoors less healthy because of all that fat in the pan? And what about food-borne bacteria problems with meat not cooked long enough?
I asked two nutrition researchers and an epidemiologist how serious the cancer dangers are and how to minimize them. (Most grilling cookbooks are too macho to even mention the word.)
There are three potential problems to consider:
High heat, indoors or out
When protein from any muscle source -- beef, chicken, pork or fish -- is exposed to high temperatures for a long time, it forms a chemical called heterocyclic amines, or HCAs. That can occur indoors on a cooktop or under a broiler, as well as on a grill outside.
HCAs have been linked to a variety of cancers in animal and epidemiological studies. The most recent, presented at a cancer meeting in April, found that out of 62,581 people in a big government study, those who preferred well-done steak had a 60% greater likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer than those who liked it less well-cooked or didn't eat steak at all.
The absolute risk of pancreatic cancer is small, and researchers can't say with certainty that HCAs cause it. But the findings do reinforce an earlier study linking well-done red meat and pancreatic cancer, says lead researcher Kristin Anderson, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health. She notes that scientists are keenly interested in pancreatic cancer, because it is often rapidly fatal.
No one has established exactly how much well-done meat is too much, or how done is too done, but Dr. Anderson says the hotter and longer meat is cooked, the more risk there is.
That doesn't mean that you need to give up grilling.
"My husband has a huge Weber grill in the backyard. We just try to cook meat indirectly, so it's not right over the hot coals or flames," says Dr. Anderson.
You can also minimize the formation of HCAs by raising the grill rack, waiting until the coals burn down and flipping the food frequently. "The issue is burning meat rather than grilling it," says Sherry Bale, a spokeswoman for Weber-Stephen Products Co. "We've always said that burned barbecue is bad barbecue."
Traditional long, slow barbecuing avoids the high-temperature problem. Microwaving meats first and grilling just briefly cuts exposure time (though the very notion makes some chefs shudder). And marinating, particularly in citrus or vinegar-based liquids, can reduce HCAs by as much as 96%.
Removing any visible charring is helpful -- but a few dark stripes don't necessarily mean trouble if the meat isn't overcooked inside. As for the danger of undercooking, that's avoidable if you use a meat thermometer. (Ground beef and pork should be cooked to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit; poultry and hot dogs to 165; beef, veal and lamb to between 145 and 160.)
Smoke and flames
A separate hazard occurs when fat drips onto flames and creates smoky flare-ups that coat food with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs. Long-term exposure to PAHs has been linked to some cancers, but the evidence is less clear than with HCAs.
Cooking lean chicken, fish and beef and removing any visible fat can greatly reduce PAHs. "The fattier the item you are cooking, the more drippings you have, and that generates more smoke," says Karen Collins, a nutrition adviser to the American Institute for Cancer Research. Grilling fruits and vegetables doesn't create HCAs and PAHs. "That's a great solution for people who just love grilling and don't want to give up the flavor," she says.
A smoky taste doesn't indicate the presence of PAHs; smoking is usually done at low temperatures that don't cause flare-ups.
Is sitting near a smoky grill hazardous? Not in the open air where smoke can dissipate, says Denise Snyder, a nutrition researcher at the Duke School of Nursing. "But I wouldn't stand directly over the grill for a long time," she adds.
Red and processed meats
Evidence is growing that what people eat may be a bigger issue than how it's cooked. A National Cancer Institute study of 500,000 people found that those who ate four ounces of red meat or more daily were 30% more likely to die of any cause over 10 years than those who consumed less. Those who ate mostly poultry or fish had a lower risk of death. Many experts advise eating meat sparingly and filling up your plate with vegetables instead.
- Email HealthJournal@wsj.com


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This isn't the first time the Los Angeles-based designer has made headlines for her fashion week decisions. This season, Rebecca Minkoff has decided to forego fashion week altogether.
Last year, she chose to show her collection in Los Angeles instead of New York's iconic fashion week. She showed at The Grove causing a ripple effect for designers to decide to move their shows to the West Coast. This year, as reported by WWD, Minkoff will be skipping the NYFW presentation because she is expecting her third child. She will also be participating in a women's empowerment project, based off the Women's March.
Based off of the brand's Instagram, Minkoff helped to participate in the march this past weekend and even supported the protest with their own signs. The social media page has been reposting several women in Hollywood with a "Grl Pwr" sweatshirt and has been supporting the overall Women's March movement. Due to this and the pregnancy, it seems that the designer and her iconic handbags won't make an appearance in New York this season.


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The commodity supercycle has been kind to New Zealand, a small open economy that has seen huge growth in demand for its main export products coming from the rapid development in China. Much of the strength in the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) over the past decade has been related to the rise in export prices, which have boosted incomes and allowed the domestic economy to grow rapidly without the resulting rise in consumer goods imports causing much of a decline in the current account.
However, recent developments in dairy and forestry prices highlight the risks of relying on a single export market, especially one as difficult to predict as China. Prices for Whole Milk Powder have fallen by 46% since February, while log prices are down 44% from the levels in March this year. These are important developments for New Zealand with dairy products representing almost a third of exports and forestry products a further 12%. How permanent are these price falls and does this mark a turning point for the NZD?
Whole milk prices fall another 11.5% in the bi-weekly Fonterra auction and are now down ~50% since Q3 last year
The causes of the declines in dairy and log prices are somewhat different, but both relate to Chinese policy decisions. Specific policies introduced following food safety scandals to improve the quality of locally produced dairy products have reduced demand for imported dairy from New Zealand. Logs are primarily used in Chinese housing construction and have been affected by government efforts to slow house price appreciation, while construction is no longer increasing as the reconstruction of poor quality housing stock is now completed and demographic shifts will see new household formation stabilizing despite ongoing urbanization.
Without the support of rising export prices, the NZD appears significantly overvalued on our long term metrics, suggesting the potential for a large fall when demand for carry trades slows. As the strength of the domestic economy also looks to be fading and volatility is rising across other asset classes, it is time to look at ways to combat a weaker NZD.


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It looks like Microsoft is going to surprise the public with the release of a new Microsoft Surface Desktop. The name Microsoft Surface All-In-One might not sound interesting, but the features might be an eye-opener for dedicated Microsoft users.
The company is getting ready for the launch of Surface Pro 5 and Surface Book 2 as well, but this one is quite new to the Internet. Here's everything we know about the upcoming product.
Sources claimed that the Microsoft Surface desktop will be out in October and will come in 3 different variants. According to ZDNet, they will launch a personal computer which goes with the codename "Cardinal."
The date is yet to be determined, but as per the site, it could be on the third or last week of October, in New York City. On the other hand, The Verge reported that Microsoft might unveil a 21-inch, 24-inch, and a 27-inch model of the Surface All-In-One PC.
However, it is still unclear whether the firm will officially release three different screen sizes. Other features are yet to be revealed as well.
The website hinted months ago that Microsoft might unveil a new product in the third quarter of 2016, hence the Microsoft Surface Desktop. More than that, they are also planning to release three more next year.
On the other hand, PC Advisor noted that the upcoming event in October might introduce fresh processors and other new gadgets as well.
According to the website, Microsoft may upgrade a device like the Surface Pro 4 with a Kaby Lake chip, or a Surface Book 2 and possibly a Surface Pro 5 which could be available next Spring.
Also, there might be announcements about the updates regarding the tech giant's latest operating system, Windows 10. Expect to know more about the Microsoft Surface Desktop here at Auto World News so stay tuned.


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Charleston, S.C. -- Horizon Forest Products recently welcomed Wilson Crouch to the inside sales team in Charleston, SC. This new addition is sure to bring success by being able to better assist Horizon Forest customers in this area. Wilson has always worked with the mindset of putting the customer first and it is this mentaility that makes him an excellent addition for the inside sales team.
Prior to starting with Horizon Forest Products, Crouch worked with Knight Printing and Graphics, where he strived to give his clients the best quality service on a daily basis. His attitude towards the quality of work he delivered to his customers is what Horizon Forest looks for in its sales team members.
“We are excited to have Wilson on our Inside Sales Team here at Horizon,” said Wes Vicars, Charleston branch manager at Horizon Forest Products. “He works hard for us and makes an impact with our customers by always providing a ‘Horizon Hardwood Expert’ level of service. We look forward to seeing our branch grow and succeed with him on our sales team.”
Crouch added, “The time I have been at Horizon Forest thus far has been a very rewarding experience. The work environment here is incredible and I look forward to providing the best service possible to our amazing customers here.”
For more information, visit www.horizonforest.com.


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More than half of all F-Series drivers regularly use their trucks for towing, which is part of the reason Ford made sure its 2011 pickup roster debuted with best-in-segment maximum tow ratings across the board. And now the company is launching an exclusive new technology that will help those drivers take advantage of that maximum power with minimum hassle: The Truck App.
Archive | May, 2011
You may not see the all-new Ford Focus and Ford C-MAX on the road until later this year, but they’re already hot sellers in Europe. Ford was Europe’s No. 2 best-selling brand last month, and much of that momentum was attributed to the popularity of the all-new Focus and C-MAX models.
While their advanced hybrid powertrains are key enablers of their best-in-class fuel economy, cars like the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also pack a wide range of other efficiency enhancers, all working together to deliver optimum performance for environmentally conscious drivers. Among them: Ford’s unique SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a breakthrough so innovative it just received two patents from the U.S. government.
Ford is preparing to launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid in 2012. In an effort to ensure the success of these highly-anticipated models, Ford is working with cities and utility partners around the U.S. to identify key infrastructure building blocks that will enable metropolitan areas to be EV-ready.
The American Park Network, the Student Conservation Association and Ford Motor Company have come together to create the free Oh, Ranger! Park Finder iPhone app. The app is sponsored by the 2011 Ford Explorer and helps users locate more than 6,000 parks and public lands across the U.S. including national forests, wildlife refuges, Bureau of Land Management sites and US Army Corps of Engineer recreation areas. The published Oh, Ranger! Guides are read by more than 20 million park enthusiasts each year, the app version is available for the iPhone, iPad and soon the Android, making public park information easily accessible to more park visitors.
Spring is in the air, which can only mean one thing — allergies. Millions of people suffer from allergies which is why Ford has gone to great lengths to ensure its new vehicles are as “allergy friendly” as possible. Ford’s new C-MAX MPV has been granted the “Allergy Tested Interior” Seal of Approval by Germany’s world renowned TÜV Rheinland testing authority. The vehicle was also awarded the Quality Certificate by the Berlin-based European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation.
In November of 2010, Paul Bedewi was driving his Ford F-150 Platinum through a busy intersection near Washington, D.C., when another driver ran a red light, striking Bedewi’s truck head on at a speed of 50 mph. At first disoriented by the impact, it took crucial minutes for Bedewi to even think about calling for help—luckily, however, he didn’t have to. His F-150, boasting Ford’s SYNC system with standard 911 Assist, had done it for him.
The 911 Assist feature is an integral part of SYNC, offering the benefits of automatic technology without the drawbacks found in competitive systems. For example, because 911 Assist is not a subscription-based service, drivers don’t have to worry about renewals or paying monthly fees. Further, instead of relying on a third-party advisor, who then contacts first-responders, the Ford system connects drivers directly to a 911 operator.
Ford Hybrids are rated highest for payback and fuel cost savings compared to competitors. Thanks Ford!
With gas prices on the rise, the interest around fuel efficiency and hybrid vehicle options is top of mind for potential car buyers. But are all hybrids created equal? Recent industry studies show that certain hybrid models provide car buyers with much more bang for their buck, and the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Ford Escape Hybrid are at the top of those lists, demonstrating the best return on investment compared to competitors.
Edmunds.com lists the Ford Escape Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid as class leaders for best monthly fuel cost in the publication’s annual best and worst monthly fuel cost estimates analysis. The hybrid versions of both vehicles led the pack for best monthly fuel costs, with consumers paying over $100 less for fuel per month, compared to competing vehicles.
In honor of Earth Month, we take a look at ways we can green up our driving. What began back in 1970 in the United States as an initiative to bring to light decades of environmental pollution has become a worldwide movement of awareness. http://www.topix.com/autos/gmc/2011/04/make-your-driving-more-eco-friendly?fromrss=1
Guys are simple. They like pickup trucks and also aspire to own fast, racy cars.
While such blatant simplicity has serious flaws, it is definitely a fair conclusion from looking at the lists of the top five vehicles with the highest percentage of men and women buyers. Men go for looks, while women go for practicality, according to a study of about eight million 2010 retail car-buying transactions by TrueCar.com. And besides favoring fuel efficiency, women also seem to like imports. http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GmcInTheNews/~3/WkMJehp3XQU/
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From 4 May, a number of airlines are introducing mandatory requirements for passengers to wear face masks onboard.
Passengers flying with the Lufthansa Group and its airlines will be required to wear a face mask covering the nose and mouth on board their flights. In addition, the group recommends that passengers wear them throughout the entire journey. This includes prior to and after the flight, and throughout the airport when the required minimum distance cannot be guaranteed without restriction. All flight attendants on Lufthansa Group flights in direct contact with customers will also be required to wear a mask.
All passengers are requested to bring their own face mask and a reusable fabric mask is recommended, but all other types of coverings such as simple disposable masks or scarves are also acceptable. The airlines will inform their passengers in advance by SMS or e-mail and on their websites about the new regulations.
The obligation to wear the mask will preliminarily apply until 31 August 2020.
The current regulation of Lufthansa Group Airlines to keep the neighbouring seat free in Economy and Premium Economy Class will no longer apply, as wearing the mouth-nose cover provides adequate health protection. Due to the current low occupancy rate, seats will nevertheless be allocated as widely as possible throughout the cabin.
In the US, JetBlue passengers customers will be required to wear a face covering during travel. The policy comes after the airline began requiring all crew members to wear face coverings while working. JetBlue has modelled its policy on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines that indicate all individuals should wear a face covering in public to help slow the spread of the COVID-19.
This new policy will require customers to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth throughout their journey, including during check-in, boarding, while in flight and deplaning. Customers will be reminded of this requirement before their flight via email and at the airport by both terminal signage and announcements. Small children who are not able to maintain a face covering are exempt from this requirement.
CDC guidance defines a suitable face covering as an item of cloth that should fit snugly against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include multiple layers of fabric and allow for unrestricted breathing. The CDC recommends surgical masks and N-95 respirators be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.
From 1 May, American Airlines will start the process of distributing sanitising wipes or gels and face masks to its customers. This offering will expand to all flights as supplies and operational conditions allow.
Masks will be required for flight attendants during every mainline and regional flight. In addition, the airline has added a drawer in the galley on every mainline flight containing personal protective equipment, including masks for flight attendants and pilots, and other sanitising items.