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By Danielle Kutchel
Customers around Australia could soon be getting their parcels delivered more quickly, thanks to a new machine at Australia Post’s Dandenong Letters Centre.
The ribbon was officially cut on the new sorting machine at the Dandenong South facility on Wednesday 27 November, in front of hundreds of excited employees.
The machine will expedite the sorting and delivery of satchels and large letters.
It comes just a few weeks after the centre celebrated its 20th anniversary, and extends the centre’s capability beyond sorting just letters.
It is equipped with tracking capabilities to offer customers increased visibility on their mail, as well as character recognition technology to read the addresses on parcel labels and recognise barcodes from ecommerce stores.
Facility manager Rod Hoober said in its second day of operation, the machine sorted 120,000 items – but is expected to run through up to 200,000 on peak days.
“It’s built capability within the network. We’ve now got more processing power,” he said.
“We weren’t sorting parcels within this facility; it was a letters facility for the first 20 years of its life. With the decline in letters we’re moving to parcels, so it’s created opportunity within Dandenong,” he added.
Bob Black, group chief operating officer of Australia Post, said the Dandenong facility was a natural fit for the new investment as the decline in letters had freed up space.
“It’s also five minutes from Amazon, we’ve got some big ecommerce players around, there’s a lot of work that comes in here, and Melbourne’s growing in this direction so this was an ideal location,” he added.
He said the Dandenong Letters Centre is the largest letter facility in Victoria and will continue processing around 15 million articles of mail every week.


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EGT participated last week in another edition of the SAGSE Expo, which once again took place in Buenos Aires, Argentina, across November 20-22. "Challenges have mostly come last year from Argentina," said Marketing and Sales Director Stanislav Stanev, when speaking about the difficulties the LatAm region may pose. "But since we are here at SAGSE, we believe that we can continue growing in this market even with those challenges."
We are now on the second day of SAGSE. What can you tell us about the feedback received by the products and innovations EGT has been showcasing so far?
This year, we are introducing ‘General,’ a brand-new slot series of cabinets and games. We have already showcased these cabinets at ICE, then in Las Vegas and many other shows, so we were looking forward to bringing them here. One of the most attractive cabinets for this edition’s visitors was the G 32-32 VIP model, which is very comfortable for players, as it features a multimedia chair that enhances their overall playing experience. Actually, that model is currently one of the best-sellers from our company. So we are very happy to be bringing this product to Buenos Aires. The feedback received has been quite positive, so we are expecting to start making installations at the beginning of next year, hopefully.
Could you summarize the company’s accomplishments in 2019 as well as plans for 2020?
As I have already mentioned, the General series cabinets were a highlight this year, as well as a completely new line of software mixes from the same series. In fact, for these cabinets, we have now mass production and we have introduced this year five models. For next year, we are planning to launch another eight models. They could probably be introduced during the ICE Show in London. We have many different models with curved-screen designs, and screens with different sizes, different software, jackpot themes, and jackpot solutions.
Overall, all of the company’s divisions have kept growing this year. In terms of sales, land-based operations (from slots machines to roulettes and our casino management system Spider) have seen quite solid figures this year, as well as our EGT Interactive division, which continues adding value to our customers wherever we install our games. Currently, we have more than 200 hundred customers, 200 installations. The online division features now over 250 games in our portfolio, which is quite promising. Our online business is growing every year so we are very happy with the results.
Which jurisdictions do you feel currently offer the most potential for gaming growth?
We started just a few years ago developing our business in the LatAm market. So right after Europe, the LatAm market is the most important one for us. We currently have offices in several countries on the continent such as Mexico, Panama, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina, and these offices are doing very well: we are installing thousands of machines every year in the region.
Europe, of course, is our home market, so it is naturally very important to us. We have opened new offices in the Czech Republic, Poland, and we are working on some more to come in the region.
We have opened a new production facility which is accommodating all our slot machines, development, and production. So it is quite a big plan which is producing nowadays over 1800 slot machines per month. We are very proud of it because it was a very hard task to relocate all our production facilities under one roof. This has enabled us to increase our capacity, so for next year, we are planning to have a minimum of 2000 machines per month production. We really hope we can satisfy all our customer needs and requests from all around the world.
We are also looking forward to continuing our development into the U.S. market, Asia, and of course, several African countries that are also on our radar.
Some jurisdictions in Latin America have gone through or are currently experiencing severe political and/or economic crises. How does the company manage to overcome the different difficulties that this region may pose?
Challenges have mostly come last year from Argentina. But since we are here at SAGSE, we believe that we can continue growing in this market even with those challenges. To us, ‘challenge’ means that we can push ourselves to develop better products, a better sales structure, and customer base, so it is what motivates us. In every market, there are some kinds of challenges, whether it has to do with regulators or the economic and political backgrounds, but that always motivates us to give more to our customers and to try to be as close as possible to their needs.

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Hip Hop International and Mandt VR have partnered to livestream the World Hip Hop Dance Championship finals in virtual reality
The multi-platinum recording artist and producer joined [a]listdaily for an exclusive video interview to detail his philanthropic passion project in Akon Lighting Africa, as well as his new four-genre album “Stadium”
UrbanWorld Music, an VR/AR channel that focuses on hip-hop music and urban entertainment, is expected to launch in June
The hip-hop legend will work alongside the iconic company to produce an album inspired by classic games
Tells the tale of the story behind the album.
Four pro basketball players try their hand at evoking 90s hip-hop in this new spot gunning for the younger nostalgia vote.


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The Centrepoint and Ion Orchard are the best dressed buildings in Orchard Road for their Christmas decorations this year - going by the results of the Best Dressed Building Contest.
Ion Orchard - with its dazzling 20m-tall Tiffany tree adorned with more than 2,000 crystals, orbs and pearls - bagged the Judges' Choice Award. Visitors to the mall can also enter the Tiffany Box at the base of the Christmas tree and take photos against an attractive backdrop.
The Centrepoint, with its largerthan-life "show kitchen" manned by gingerbread men, was the voters' top pick, scoring about 5,300 out of some 29,800 votes. Other interesting features include a gumball glasshouse for visitors to climb into, a candy cane throne and a giant chocolate fountain.
The malls were judged for the day and night effects of their Christmas decorations as well as use of interactive features to create an engaging experience for shoppers.
Thanking contest participants, Mr Mark Shaw, chairman of the Orchard Road Business Association (Orba), said in an announcement of the results yesterday: "Orba hopes that visitors will not only enjoy the visual spectacle and fun activities along Orchard Road, but also help spread the joy this Christmas season."
Eight other malls received merit awards for their creative efforts - Forum The Shopping Mall, Orchard Central, orchardgateway, Paragon, Plaza Singapura, Tanglin Mall, Tangs at Tang Plaza and Wheelock Place.
The annual contest, organised by the association, saw 10 malls vying for the top two awards this year, compared with eight the previous year.
Ms Stephanie Ho, general manager of retail properties for Frasers Centrepoint Malls, which manages The Centrepoint, says every detail of its Christmas decorations this year "is about creating an experience that brings out the child in all of us".
"We brought to life highly Instagram-able and interactive decorations, including life-sized gingerbread men working up a storm in the pastry kitchen. This is our way of rewarding shoppers with fun and differentiated experiences each time they visit The Centrepoint," she says.
Mr Chris Chong, chief executive of Orchard Turn Developments, which manages Ion Orchard, says the group is "delighted to win the Judges' Choice Award". The mall won the same award last year.
Members of the public who voted for the best dressed building stand a chance to win $150 worth of shopping vouchers in a lucky draw. The 20 winners will be notified by post.
The contest is one of several highlights in the seven-week calendar for the association's Christmas On A Great Street - its line-up of festive events - this year. For the first time, Mastercard is teaming up with ComfortDelGro Taxis to knock $5 off all taxi fares to and from selected Orchard Road malls every weekend till Jan 2.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy their favourite Christmas carols, which will be piped through outdoor speakers lining the stretch from Ion Orchard to Ngee Ann City.
The association is holding a social media contest till Jan 2, encouraging visitors to Orchard Road to take photos of themselves on the shopping street. Two winners with the best photos and captions will win prizes of up to $250 each.
For more information, go to www.orchardroad.org/christmas


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Lakes has been shortlisted for two awards in the 2020 Construction Marketing Awards (CMAs) – ‘Best use of Advertising’ and ‘Best Stakeholder/Internal Communications’, working with MRA Marketing.
Full-service agency MRA Marketing has been shortlisted for 15 awards across 10 categories in this year’s prestigious Construction Marketing Awards (CMAs).
Lakes has launched an innovative new online platform to give its trade and end user customers a personalised showroom experience.
Full service PR and marketing agency MRA Marketing has taken the No.1 spot in the Construction Marketing Awards (CMA) Agency League, for the fifth time in six years.
IG Lintels is celebrating double success for its Spanning Suburbia campaign in the highly-respected Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Marketing Excellence Awards.
MRA Research, the specialist research division of full service marketing agency MRA Marketing, has been shortlisted for three awards in this year’s prestigious CMAs.
Full-service agency MRA Marketing has been shortlisted for nine awards in this year’s prestigious Construction Marketing Awards (CMA).
MRA Research, the specialist research division of MRA Marketing, asked building and home improvement product suppliers what they thought the impact of Brexit would be.
MRA Research recently conducted a survey, whereby merchants, suppliers and other construction industry stakeholders were asked about their views on Brexit.
MRA Research has extended its team with the recent appointment of a new Research Development Manager, Anna Eriksson.


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Euromonitor, the world’s leader in strategy research for consumer markets have released their annual World Travel Market Global Trends Report 2012 at London’s World Travel Market.
The WTM Global Trends Report has successfully predicted some significant … November 8, 2012
The Seychelles delegates, who were taking part in the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) from February 17 to 26 in India, have returned in the country, satisfied with the interest Seychelles gained as a holiday destination for the Indian market. OTM is India’s … March 18, 2012
When I first mentioned my decision to visit the islands of Grenada for Christmas, everyone was rather surprised. They made comments like "there would be no snow," or "where will you find a mistletoe?" I listened to all of their remarks, but I was determined … December 30, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Eid Al Fitr Celebration at the Riyadh Mayoralty has announced the Eid al-Fitr programs in various parts of the city to celebrate the Eid Holidays.
These include the 200 free events spread over more than 40 locations … August 31, 2010
City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in holiday style, in the air there's a feeling of Christmas. And it stretches from North Fulton County in metro Atlanta to Lumpkin County in the North Georgia Mountains, as the seven communities of the Hospitality … November 18, 2009
Award-winning European river cruise line, AMAWATERWAYS, announced “AMA-zing Holidays Savings” featuring free airfare to Europe on two 2009 itineraries, and 50 percent savings off a second stateroom on select 2010 cruises. These “AMA-zing” offers … November 13, 2009
Here come the holidays again, with the same old, same old meals, traditions, and decorations. Why not make a change this year and do something different - like taking the family away to a foreign country with its own cuisine, customs, and colors? Rentalo, … October 29, 2009
Operating in beautiful Cape Town for over twelve years, Icon Villas specializes in private and luxurious vacation rentals in and around South Africa’s number one tourist city. Started and headed up by Therese Botha, Icon Villas entertains guests with … September 1, 2009
When making their travel plans, 30.8 million Germans now rely on the Internet as a source of information. Of this figure, around 7 million use travel communities as a basis for making a final decision about their journey. A further 5 million intend to … August 18, 2009
BANGKOK, Thailand – It’s time to refresh, re-energize, and re-evaluate your lifestyle by getting away from tension-filled days and spending the holidays rejuvenating both the mind and body. As traditional Asian treatments become the preferred choice … November 9, 2008


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BECK Technology Ventures launches BECK Friends to disrupt the global logistics space
Sending a parcel aboard, regardless of the size of the package, can often be a hassle for the sender – the process is not transparent, there are often issues with the weight of the package, and the charges are often exorbitant. It is to address these concerns that BECK, a start-up that focuses on simplifying global logistics requirements through technology, has announced the launch of BECK Friends, its global peer-to-peer logistics marketplace. But how is BECK Friends different from other logistics services operating globally? The difference lies in the approach. BECK Friends is aimed at creating a simple, flexible, cost-effective platform for delivery solutions that reaches out to a global consumer base. Moreover, it also gives an opportunity to the user delivering the package to earn while they travel. With the platform, BECK is looking to disrupt the global logistics market through technology and help its users in sending anything anywhere economically by bringing in a community-led approach.
Speaking on the announcement, Deep Malhotra, Co-founder, BECK Technology Ventures, said, “We would like to disrupt the current logistics ecosystem through a habit-changing technology. A person's time is always valued more than money, and if we are able to give them a solution that values their time and also offers convenience, we are home. It is the kind of product that will have an organic growth as it is connecting users for a mutual benefit, and anything that grows organically is a good long term business to be in.”
The process for requesting and offerings services on BECK Friends is very simple. Users add requests in the location they choose, providing the details of pickup & delivery along with the package details and the picture of the package to be delivered. The platform’s algorithm then gives an estimated pricing based on factors such as the time requested for delivery, the package size and the distance. Other users can then respond to the request, which delivers a notification to the sender and gives him/her an option to see the Facebook profile of the user interested in making the delivery. Once the interested party is approved by the sender, numbers are then exchanged through SMS. This ensures privacy as well as establishes trust for both parties involved.
The founding team is robust with a good mix of technology & business expertise. Rahul Basu and Mayukh Basu two engineers in their early twenties from BITS Pilani lead the technology at BECK. Shikha Pandey, ex-Airtel & ex-Unilever, leads the operations & strategy of the business and Deep Malhotra, Ex-Google and Ex-Senior Director Myspace, who is on board as a Co-Founder and is leading the team.
Beck’s latest launch comes on the back of the recent launch of its intra-city instant delivery app, which is currently operational in Mumbai and live on iOS and Android platforms. The app has received an impressive response from the consumers, and has recently reached the milestone of 1000 deliveries in a month. With its Friends platform now live, BECK will be looking to further enhance the logistics landscape in India and across the world.
“Indian tech-enabled logistics start-ups attracted a funding of over USD 700 million in 2015. This year is touted to be the year of consolidation, and a product like BECK Friends can be the perfect platform to do so. Consolidating various players, along with peers, will give the user the flexibility to choose the best option according to their requirements,” adds Deep.
With the platform free to use at present, BECK Friends is focusing on creating a critical mass of users in form of peers, third party courier companies and truck companies amongst other partners. Users can sign up with BECK Friends on www.beckfriends.com to send things around the globe or simply look for opportunity to earn next time when you are travelling.


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We all know that opposites attract. You might like crunchy peanut butter, while your partner will always pick smooth — it’s like yin and yang, right?
Er, not so much. According to a new study by Duke University, liking different brands can affect your relationship more than your interests and personality traits.
“People think compatibility in relationships comes from having similar backgrounds, religion or education,” explains Gavan Fitzsimons, a marketing professor at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. “But we find those things don’t explain how happy you are in life nearly as much as this notion of brand compatibility.”
The research, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, found that the less-dominant person in the relationship can feel stuck with their partner’s preferred brand choices.
“Most couples won’t break up over brand incompatibility, but it leads to the low power partner becoming less and less happy,” explains lead author and former Fuqua PhD student Danielle Brick.
Researchers on the project studied brand preferences of couples and single people on soft drink, coffee, chocolate, beer, and cars, which was then linked to findings on relationship power and happiness.
Brick attributed these results to the much bigger roles that brands play in people’s lives. The fact that your significant other is more Nestle than Cadbury won’t be a deal-breaker when you first start dating, but according to Brick, it may cause problems for the two of you later in life.
“If you’re the low-power person in the relationship, who continually loses out on brands and is stuck with your partner’s preferences, you are going to be less happy,” she says.
So, there you have it. If you like opposite things to your spouse, maybe it’s time to talk it through now, rather than later.
This post was written by Jacqui King. For more, check out our sister site Now to Love.


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A growing movement calling for the “right to repair” is finding deep, cross-partisan support, with advocates ranging from medical personnel desperate to repair broken ventilators in a timely fashion to car owners who want to fix software glitches at their local garage. And policy-makers are increasingly tuning in, with the European Union taking the lead.
By 2021, EU citizens should find it easier to get laptops, phones, and tablets fixed, courtesy of new right-to-repair rules that were announced this past spring as part of the continent’s plan for a more sustainable and competitive circular economy, reports the New York Times.
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And in the United States, a bipartisan effort is moving toward tabling laws that will loosen the long-standing and iron-clad grip that manufacturers of everything from Gameboys to tanks to refrigerators have had over what happens when that console, turret, or ice cube maker stops working.
With the current status quo, many manufacturers across a broad range of sectors have become the sole provider of the necessary parts and technicians needed to repair their products. That has left consumers with only one path to repair—a lack of choice that can lead (or force) them to toss the defective item and buy a new one.
Right-to-repair advocates note that this trajectory is what continues to sustain economies built on the doctrine of planned obsolescence—“the idea that products are designed to be short-lived in order to encourage people to buy more stuff,” writes the Times. And, it adds, “more stuff” is exactly what the world needs least as it tries to rein in global emissions.
Citing Apple’s own manufacturing data (and noting the salient fact that manufacturing remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels), the Times flags the newest iPhone as a case in point: mining and manufacturing materials for the phone comprises “roughly 83%” of the product’s contribution to heat-trapping emissions in the atmosphere throughout its life cycle.”
Changing the rules around repair—specifically “requir[ing] companies to make their parts, tools, and information available to consumers and repair shops in order to keep devices from ending up in the scrap heap”—will have significant climate benefits, the Times writes. The story cites claims by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group that adding just one year to how long the average American cell phone user keeps their phone would produce “the climate-saving equivalent of taking 636,000 cars off the road, or about the amount of passenger vehicles registered in the state of New Mexico.”
In the U.S., more than 20 states—led by both Republicans and Democrats—have introduced right-to-repair legislation over the last few years, and this past summer the House of Representatives “advanced a funding bill that includes a requirement that the Federal Trade Commission complete a report on anti-competitive practices in the repair market and present its findings to Congress and the public.”
Crying foul, manufacturers are claiming that their control over the repair process is about consumer safety—and, when it comes to things electronic, about privacy and security, too.
But progress is nonetheless being made, writes the Times. In next week’s election, “Massachusetts will have a question on the ballot designed to ensure that drivers will continue to be able to have local repair shops—not just authorized dealers—work on their cars as they become more automated and manufacturers control access to that data.” The measure has been long in coming, adds the Times: it originally grew out of a 2012 bill “that required carmakers to provide independent repair shops with access to the diagnostic tools that had been available only to dealerships.”
And last fall, Apple announced its intent to allow independent repair businesses to provide “the same genuine parts, tools, and diagnostics for iPhone repairs as it gives to Apple-authorized service providers.”
Even so, legislation at the state or federal level will be needed to adequately move the needle on the problem of manufacturers controlling the repair market, in part because major manufacturers are conspicuous on panels that set environmental impact guidelines, said electronics consultant Mark Schaffer.
“As a whole, the industry needs to raise the floor on repairability,” he told the Times. “That’s probably not going to happen until there is a legal requirement at a state or at a national level.”
Does anyone know of a similar movement in Canada?


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The Nigerian government has banned foreigners from approaching its local farmers for their produce. The decision was made on Wednesday at the Federal Executive Meeting headed by the country’s Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.
In a statement released by the government, it said only licensed local buying agents are allowed to buy the produce from the farmers.
“The Federal Executive Council (FEC) today approved a Ban on foreigners and their representatives purchasing agricultural produce at the farm gate.
“Henceforth, only licensed and duly registered LOCAL buying agents can now buy produce directly from farmers in Nigeria,” the statement released on microblogging platform, Twitter read.
The statement also revealed that the Attorney General will draft a law and send to the National Assembly for implementation.
“As part of the FEC approval, the Attorney-General will draft a law that will be sent to NASS to support the implementation of the new Policy.
“We will also use Commodity Associations, to which the farmers belong, to ensure effective implementation.”
The Nigerian government’s decision has been met with mixed reactions as some Nigerians commented that it limits the freedom of choice of the farmers.
Others stated that foreign owners who buy directly from these farmers at low prices go on to sell at exorbitant prices and also cause food inflation.
It’s unclear what the framework of the policy is with the government expected to reveal the workings of the new policy in the days to come.
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The Wide World of Electronic Sports is back! Given the holiday yesterday, the show has been moved from Monday to Tuesday, and will be going down a little earlier than you may be used to. Regardless, hosts Rodney and Bryan are excited to dig into the most interesting stories in esports over the past week, and there is certainly a lot to discuss. Get in here for WWES!
WWES will be happening today at 12 p.m. PT/1 p.m. ET over on the Shacknews Twitch channel. That’s where you’ll get to listen to/watch Rodney and Bryan discuss the biggest esports stories of the past week. Today’s topics include Summer Games Done Quick, which raised a whopping $3 million for charity. The crew will also talk about GOML 2022 and RLCS.
Of course, it wouldn’t be WWES without some sauce talk. On today’s episode, the hosts are talking about Taco Bell’s new Cheez-it Tostada, a menu item that features a massive Cheez-it in the center. There is also news of McDonald’s launching a “Camp McDonald’s” campaign, which will bring secret menu items and exclusive offers.
That’s what you can expect from this week’s Wide World of Electronic Sports. The action is going down soon, and you won’t want to miss it. Of course, Amazon Prime members can subscribe to our channel once per month at no additional cost with Prime Gaming. Be sure to stick around for all of the other exciting streams coming to our Twitch channel this week!


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Apple still trails rivals in artificial intelligence race
APPLE unveiled a series of improvements to its Siri digital assistant on Thursday, but the tech giant still trails rivals such as Google and Amazon in the red-hot field of artificial intelligence, specialists say.
Apple's biggest move was to open up the talking iPhone
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- HOLY, the pioneer in offering a healthier and sustainable alternative to traditional soft drinks, has successfully raised €10.5 million ($11.5 million) in a Series A funding round led by Left Lane Capital.
- The brand’s innovative approach saves over 90% of packaging waste, reduces carbon emissions, and offers low-sugar, functional soft drinks that appeal to the next generation of consumers.
- HOLY has already established a strong presence with more than 200,000 loyal customers across Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland, and plans to expand into new European territories, launch new products, and enter retail channels.
Embracing Health and Sustainability: HOLY’s Mission
HOLY, a revolutionary direct-to-consumer brand, is poised to redefine the landscape of soft drinks with its commitment to health, sustainability, and innovation. The brand has successfully secured €10.5 million ($11.5 million) in a Series A funding round led by global venture capital firm Left Lane Capital. Existing investors FoodLabs and Simon Capital, along with other notable contributors, also participated in this funding round.
Founded in 2020 by three visionary best friends—Frederick Jost, Philipp Nass, and Mathias Horsch—HOLY is disrupting the soft drinks industry by offering a healthier and more sustainable alternative to conventional options. The brand’s approach resonates with the evolving preferences of consumers who seek products that align with their health-conscious and eco-friendly values.
A Transformative Approach: Low-Sugar, Low-Calorie, Functional Soft Drinks
HOLY’s innovative approach to soft drinks addresses two critical concerns—health and sustainability. Traditional soft drinks often come with high sugar content, contributing to health concerns such as obesity and diabetes. Additionally, these drinks generate substantial packaging waste, harming the environment. HOLY’s offerings address these issues by delivering low-sugar, low-calorie soft drinks that incorporate functional ingredients like vitamins, nootropics, antioxidants, and fiber. The brand’s products are also crafted with natural flavors and colors.
“Our goal is to offer a compelling solution to the trade-off between great taste and good conscience. We’ve reimagined soft drinks to be not only healthier but also more sustainable,” explains Frederick Jost, HOLY’s founder and co-CEO.
An Eco-Friendly Approach: Saving Packaging Waste and Reducing Carbon Emissions
Beyond delivering healthier options, HOLY is committed to reducing its environmental footprint. The brand’s innovative powder-based soft drinks have the potential to save more than 90% of packaging waste compared to traditional bottled beverages. Additionally, HOLY’s operations contribute to lowering carbon emissions, making it a sustainable choice for conscientious consumers.
“By choosing HOLY, consumers are making a conscious decision to support a brand that cares about their health and the planet. We’ve created a product that’s not only good for you but also good for the environment,” says Philipp Nass, HOLY’s founder and CMO.
Building a Health-Conscious Community: HOLY’s Success Story
HOLY’s commitment to health and sustainability has struck a chord with consumers across Europe. With more than 200,000 loyal customers, HOLY Energy and HOLY Iced Tea products have garnered a strong following in Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland. This impressive success reflects the shifting consumer preference towards products that align with healthier lifestyles and sustainable choices.
Empowering Expansion: Funding for Growth and Innovation
The recent Series A funding round, led by Left Lane Capital, signals a pivotal phase in HOLY’s journey. The €10.5 million ($11.5 million) infusion of capital will empower the brand to accelerate its mission of becoming Europe’s leading healthier soft drink brand. HOLY’s strategy includes expanding into new European territories, including the UK, as well as introducing new product offerings and venturing into retail channels.
Jason Fiedler, Managing Partner at Left Lane Capital, commends HOLY’s brand and product attributes, emphasizing the brand’s potential to capture a mass market audience in Europe. Despite challenges in the DTC investment landscape, HOLY’s funding round has been recognized as one of the most competitive in the consumer sector this year.
A Collaborative Pursuit of Excellence
HOLY’s remarkable journey is the result of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to health and sustainability. The brand’s co-founders, along with strategic investors and industry experts, have come together to create a product that stands at the intersection of consumer well-being and environmental responsibility.
As HOLY looks ahead to a future of growth and expansion, the brand remains committed to its founding principles. “We’ve built HOLY on the foundation of health, sustainability, and innovation. With the support of our investors and our growing community of customers, we’re poised to transform the soft drinks industry,” affirms Mathias Horsch, HOLY’s founder and co-CEO.
About HOLY: A Visionary Brand for Health and Sustainability
Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Berlin, Germany, HOLY is a direct-to-consumer brand that is revolutionizing the soft drinks landscape. HOLY Energy and HOLY Iced Tea products offer a healthier, low-sugar alternative that resonates with health-conscious consumers. Beyond health, HOLY is dedicated to sustainability, with its powder-based soft drinks saving packaging waste and reducing carbon emissions. HOLY has amassed over 200,000 loyal customers across Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland, and continues to inspire with its vision of a better and more sustainable soft drinks industry.
For more information and career opportunities, please visit https://www.weareholy.com/careers
About Left Lane Capital: Empowering Entrepreneurial Ventures
Founded in 2019, Left Lane Capital is a global venture capital and growth equity firm with offices in New York and London. The firm specializes in investing in internet and technology companies with a consumer orientation. Left Lane Capital partners with visionary entrepreneurs to create category-defining companies across sectors such as software, healthcare, e-commerce, fintech, edtech, and more. The firm’s investments reflect a commitment to supporting extraordinary entrepreneurs in reshaping industries and creating lasting impact.
For more information, please visit www.leftlanecap.com
About FoodLabs: Nurturing Innovation in Food and Sustainability
FoodLabs, based in Berlin, is a pioneering pan-European Early Stage VC investor and venture studio that focuses on food, sustainability, and health. The firm believes that entrepreneurship holds the key to pushing the boundaries in the food industry. With an investment portfolio spanning over 50 early-stage FoodTech companies, FoodLabs is dedicated to backing purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are poised to transform the food industry.
Learn more: https://www.foodlabs.com/
About Simon Capital: Shaping Industries with Driven Founders
Founded in 2018, Simon Capital is an early-stage VC fund located in Düsseldorf, Germany. The fund invests in founders who are reshaping industries across consumption, well-being, and productivity. Leveraging its extensive network and entrepreneurial expertise, Simon Capital supports sustainable businesses that are primed for success. The fund’s active portfolio approach has seen investments in companies like waterdrop, Just Spices, MushLabs, MicroHarvest, and Sastrify.
Learn more: https://simoncapital.com/
About V3 Ventures: Partnering with Visionary Entrepreneurs
V3 Ventures, a consumer-focused venture capital fund, is backed by international growth investor Verlinvest. The fund specializes in early-stage digital consumer businesses that are building scalable and purpose-driven brands across Europe, the United States, and India. With a portfolio that includes innovative companies such as Yepoda, Katkin, Wild, and Cuure, V3 Ventures empowers visionary founders to create the consumer brands of tomorrow.
Empowering a Healthier and More Sustainable Future
HOLY’s journey is one of transformative change, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to health and sustainability. As the brand expands its footprint across Europe and introduces new offerings, it remains rooted in its mission to offer a better soft drinks experience—one that not only delights consumers’ taste buds but also aligns with their values and priorities. With a growing community of health-conscious and eco-conscious consumers, HOLY is poised to make a significant impact on the soft drinks industry and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.


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According to the Kyiv School of Economics, only seven international businesses completed their departures from Russia in July, while 56% of companies monitored are still committed to staying in the country.
The list of those who exited in July includes trade credit insurance company Atradius, hygiene & health company Essity, fashion manufacturer & retailer GERRY WEBER International AG, Ikano Bank, merchant services technology company Ingenico, car parts maker ZF Group, and a food manufacturer Kellogg Company.
In early March 2022, the maker of famous Pringles chips, American Kellogg Company announced the cutting off of supplies to Russia due to its invasion of Ukraine. Media report that the new owner of the business may continue producing chips, but only according to its own recipe and without reference to Pringles.
Congratulations on making the right decision! Western business has no place in dictatorial and criminal regimes.


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IC Insights hit the front pages this week with their new report forecasting the continued double digit growth for the PC sector in semi. One important caveat, we're (finally) seeing the widespread categorization of tablet devices as "Tablet Computers."
The PC sector experienced a 19% post-recession rebound in 2010, and this year is forecasted to reach a "13% increase to 402 million systems worldwide in 2011 thanks to the rapid spread of PC sales in developing countries and the consumer market's year-old love affair with new tablet-style touch-screen computers," according to the IC Insights report. The variables cited (developing countries demand for PC and global CE market demand for tablets) are critical to understanding the new demand drivers not only in the PC sector, but for the wider, global semiconductor value chain as we settle into the global post-recession economy. Watch for Smith's upcoming MarketWatch Quarterly out in June, which includes a report on Brazil as a cornerstone market among the emerging economies for semiconductor value chain growth.
Importantly, we need to note the language and device category change in these recent industry forecasts: the new device category title of "Tablet Computer." While this might seem to be an arcane point, it is important that tablets are now a member of the PC sector. In Smith's first quarter 2011 MarketWatch Quarterly here and here, we provided detailed explanations as to why tablets are best understood as the newest member of the PC sector, based on their use as consumer and corporate devices (that is, how tablets are used and their demand trends) as well as based on their bill of materials (BoMs) and components (from pricing to component trending). See also EETimes recent discussion of the 'Tablet Computers' label here.
With tablets now entrenched in the PC sector for industry forecasting, the question of 'cannibalization' is finally able to be laid to rest and better understood as the market resolution of the 'natural competition' between devices. In other words, demand drivers favor tablets' device versatility and increased capability over the paired down features offered by netbooks. The volume numbers underscore the obvious feature and device preferences; the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the new tablet subsector is "forecast to climb at a CAGR of 152% in the 2009-2014 period reaching 132m units in the next four years," as summarized here by Electronics Weekly.
The strength of demand for devices with increased capability and versatility goes beyond tablets as is seen by the strong emerging market demand for traditional/standard notebooks: tablets are "forecast to grow more than 190% to 49 million systems in 2011, up from nearly 17 million in 2010," while standard notebooks are forecasted to be up 14% "to 182 million units in 2011" according to the IC Insights report here. Netbooks are the only category to drop, according to the IC Insights report and summary by Electronics Weekly, "netbook shipments are expected to fall by a 17% CAGR to 10m units i[n 2014] [sic] from 26 million units in 2009."
Beyond the numbers, what these forecasts tell us is that demand worldwide is trending to favor more features and more versatility from devices, rather than the pairing down of features to save on price (that is, when price is among the primary factors in purchase decision, there is a strong preference for traditional/standard laptops over netbooks). This demand trend is understood by industry and market analysts to extend beyond the PC sector and also be a growth driver for mobile telecommunications and automotive, as well as other sectors.


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Revenge supernatural thriller THE WAKE is hitting all platforms soon. The feature comes from Faouzi Brahimi and Bryan Brewer and follows a bunch of kids attending the wake of a kid they killed which may have not been the best idea. THE WAKE will hit multiple online platforms like iTunes, Amazon and more. It will also be released exclusively on DVD on Amazon MOD. It is set release on July 4th, 2017. Read ahead for the trailer and more in the latest release from Brain Damage Films.
From the studio that brought you “The Raking”. Five friends attend the wake of the young boy they accidentally killed a few days earlier, only to find themselves entrapped in what may become a funeral of their own.


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Interoperability of the many digital devices found in the home today may become a reality in the near future. Several of the largest consumer electronics and high tech companies have developed a set of technical guidelines on the interoperability of devices which was released on Tuesday.
The organization called the Digital Living Network Alliance (DNLA) include Hewlett-Packard Co., Intel Corp., Microsoft Corp., Nokia Inc., Philips, Samsung, Sony Corp, IBM, Sharp, Kenwood, NEC Corp. and Texas Instruments Inc.
Interoperability involves a network that enables consumers to share music, video and pictures stored in a computer in a computer with multiple devices, such as televisions, stereos and music players. However, lack of interoperability standards and copyright protection for digital content pose as obstacles in achieving a digital home.
The DNLA has already chosen standards for device communications and will be developing test for validating interoperability and designing certification logos for compliant devices.
The first consumer electronics supporting the DNLA's framework are expected to start hitting the market in the fourth quarter or early next year, with Panasonic and Samsung expected to be among the first, alliance officials said. Nokia is expected to ship compliant cellular phones in the first quarter of next year.
The group is still waiting on membership from the major entertainment companies which is being delayed due to copyright issues. "That is an order of magnitude more complex than what we've done to date," said Griffis, who is also director of world media standards for the Windows client division of Microsoft. The alliance has recently started considering digital rights management technology that would fit into the interoperability framework, but there's no timetable for adoption, Griffis said.
The DNLA is not the only group pursuing interoperability among home devices. Similar alliances have formed in Asian countries, such as Korea that focus on technology standards unique to their countries.


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EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was updated on Thursday, March 26, to include C&S Wholesale's new partnership with Performance Food Group.
C&S Wholesale Grocers is teaming up with foodservice distributors US Foods and Performance Food Group to address supply and job imbalances in the grocery and foodservice industries brought by the coronavirus pandemic.
Similarly, Albertsons Cos. is partnering with 17 companies in the restaurant and hospitality sectors to hire workers displaced by business shutdowns in those industries as states and municipalities face the spread of COVID-19.
The C&S-US Foods partnership pairs the nation’s largest grocery distributor with its second-largest foodservice wholesaler. Keene, N.H.-based C&S, in announcing the alliance Tuesday, said the initiative will ease potential worker shortages arising from escalating food retail demand by transferring employees at US Foods — which is grappling with plummeting demand in the foodservice sector — to similar job functions at C&S.
“We are very excited about our partnership with US Foods, which will keep the food supply chain strong despite challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mike Duffy, CEO of C&S Wholesale Grocers. “We are taking the steps necessary to on-board and train members of US Foods’ workforce to ensure our warehouses are staffed and deliveries are on the road, enabling families access to food across the country.”
C&S supplies more than 7,700 independent supermarkets, chain stores, military bases and institutions with over 137,000 products.
“We are vigilantly monitoring this situation around the clock and are in constant communication with government authorities and industry associations to ensure that we are doing everything possible to make sure everyone has access to food,” Duffy added. “We're thankful to have members of the US Foods team join us in keeping operations moving and store shelves stocked.”
Rosemont, Ill.-based US Foods noted that mounting restrictions imposed by federal and state government in response to coronavirus are changing Americans’ consumption behaviors, resulting in rising grocery purchases and much less dining out. The company works with about 300,000 restaurants and foodservice operators through its more than 70 locations.
“We are proud to be working with C&S Wholesale Grocers as their role in our communities increases in importance,” commented Pietro Satriano, chairman and CEO of US Foods. “This partnership is an excellent example of the ways in which we are leveraging our distribution capabilities in new ways to support our nation's retailers and we value this important opportunity.”
The C&S partnership with Richmond, Va.-based Performance Food Group will enable C&S to leverage PFG’s workforce to help handle the extensive increases in food and product needs in local communities around the country.
“Our communities have always been at the heart of our business,” said Duffy. “In partnering with Performance Food Group, we are in a better position to fulfill our commitment to ensuring grocery store shelves are stocked and families around the country have access to food and other necessities during these unsettling and unpredictable times.”
“We are excited to partner with C&S Wholesale Grocers during this critical time for our country’s food supply chain,” said George Holm, PFG chairman, president and CEO. “Our talented associates have valuable expertise in food distribution and we are proud that they will continue to play a vital role in keeping families fed. This is one of the many ways that PFG can utilize our people and assets to support our local communities as we all weather this period of disruption.”
This partnership is effective immediately with 35 PFG employees across two states starting this week. Over the coming days and weeks, more employees will be joining C&S, the companies said.
Retail jobs for restaurant workers
Meanwhile, Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons announced late Monday that it aims to provide part-time jobs to restaurant and hospitality businesses that have been compelled to close or scale back operations, furlough employees or cut hours amid the COVID-19 crisis.
To that end, Albertsons said it has secured partnerships with 17 companies, including ASM Global, BJ’s Restaurants, G6 Hospitality, Hilton, Inspire Brands, Marriott International, MGM Resorts, Regal Cinemas and G6 Hospitality, among others.
Plans call for Albertsons to immediately hire 30,000 part-time associates. Dedicated application sites have been set up for employees from partner companies, which will provide links when they notify their employees about the opportunity for part-time employment with Albertsons.
Supermarkets have been deemed “critical infrastructure” by the federal government and are required to operate during the pandemic, Albertsons noted. The company said it understands that most people hired will return to their previous jobs when the crisis ends.
“The most valuable asset and the core of any business is people, and we are working hard with many human resource teams across a variety of businesses, who are actively defining next steps for their employees,” Albertsons Cos. President and CEO Vivek Sankaran said in a statement. “So many businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors are scaling back hours or temporarily closing as their customers remain home and adhere to shelter-in-place orders. We are grateful to be a resource to help fill a critical need in our own business and take care of people who want to continue working during this time of national emergency.”
Overall, Albertsons Cos. operates more than 2,200 food and drugstores in 34 states and the District of Columbia under 20 banners, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen and Carrs.
For our most up-to-date coverage, visit the coronavirus homepage.


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Disney is cancelling all its Disney Cruise Line sailings through January 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Disney Reviews CDC Guidance
The company is extending a previous suspension of cruises until early next year. The extension will affect the Disney Magic, Wonder and Dream cruises through Feb. 1. It will affect the Fantasy cruise through Feb. 6, the New York Post reported.
“Our team at Disney Cruise Line remains focused on the health and well-being of our Guests and team members,” the company said in a statement on its website. “We continue to carefully review the guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and are working toward resuming operations.”
“As we continue to refine our protocols for our eventual return to service, we have decided to cancel all sailings departing through January 2021,” the company added. “Sailings are canceled on board the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder and Disney Dream through February 1 and the Disney Fantasy through February 6.”
A list of affected sailings is available alongside the company’s statement.
CDC Says Cruise Travel Unnecessary
Customers who booked those cruises will receive a refund for the amount they paid or a credit for a future cruise. For sailings through next May, customers can change their sail date up until 15 days before departure. Or they can cancel for a full refund, provided it’s within 14 days of the sailing and they have a Covid-19 exposure.
This week, the CDC warned against cruise travel, saying the risk of Covid-19 infection remains “very high.” That’s despite the CDC’s decision to lift a no-sail order against cruise ships in the U.S. several weeks ago.
The CDC’s guidelines note that cruise passengers are at increased risk of catching infectious diseases like COVID-19. The agency further pointed out that most cruise travel takes the form of voluntary vacations, which can be rescheduled.


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Global cards from the four U.S.-based payment card networks expanded by 286 million credit and debit cards-in-force (CIF), over the past twelve months. Visa [V], Mastercard [MA], American Express [AXP], and Discover/Diners [DFS], global payment cards, including credit, charge, debit and prepaid products, grew 5.2% year-on-year (YOY) in the third-quarter (3Q/19).
Growth has been eroding the past five years, following an uptick in 2018 driven by U.S. and international debit and prepaid products. However, this year, a sharp decline in Visa and Mastercard U.S. credit cards, and a slight pull-back in international credit and charge cards has offset the gains in debit cards, notes Robert McKinley, Senior Analyst for CardData, CardFlash and CardTrak.
Among the four networks all the significant growth is driven by Mastercard U.S. credit/charge cards and international debit/prepaid cards, up 10% and 13%, respectively. American Express continues to struggle with new account acquisitions and introduced new or refurbished products in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, during second half of 2019. AXP also launched a major retail acceptance merchant campaign in U.S. during December.
Global Cards Projections
There is speculation of a merger of American Express and Discover in 2020. A possible combination would enable both companies to fully reach a broad credit spectrum in the U.S. from credit scores above 660. New speculation suggests an additional acquisition of a sub-prime specialist in scores below 660 would compete vigorously against Mastercard powerhouses such as Capital One [COF].
Currently, American Express U.S. high-end credit/charge rewards/perks products are impacting enhancement revenue by market leader Chase [JPM]. Internationally, it is unclear how a suggested combination would benefit both parties.
Based on the current five-year CAGR and projected GDP, the total number of global cards-in-force of credit, charge, debit and prepaid products will likely rise to 7.5 billion by 2025, approaching the 7.0 billion milestone in 2023. In 2020, the figure will easily top 6.0 billion.
Peer Group Performance
The payment networks reported 5762 million CIF in 3Q/19, compared to 5688 million for 2Q/19, and 5476 million for 3Q/18. In the third-quarter of 2015 the major four networks posted 4134 million CIF.
Global payments cards increased by 6.1% YOY in 2018, 5.5% YOY in 2017 (excluding Visa Europe), 5.5% YOY for 2016, and 5.4% for 2015. Including Visa Europe the 2016 YOY growth rate is 17.3%.
The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for global payments is running at 8.45%. Excluding Visa Europe cards following the 3Q/16 merger of Visa and Visa Europe, the five-year CAGR is 5.45%.
Visa and Mastercard global credit/charge and debit/prepaid CIF rose 5.4% YOY from a revised 5288 million one-year ago to 5575 million for 3Q/19, and compared to a revised 5502 million in the prior quarter. For the prior year Visa and Mastercard global credit and debit CIF increased 6.3% YOY. Visa and Mastercard global CIF is now running at an 5.64% CAGR, adjusted to include Visa Europe.
U.S. Payment Cards
Visa and Mastercard U.S. credit CIF rose 2.3% YOY from a revised 561 million one-year ago to 574 million for 3Q/19, and compared to a revised 569 million in the prior quarter. For the prior year Visa and Mastercard U.S. credit CIF increased 3.3% YOY. Visa and Mastercard U.S. credit card CIF is now running at a 2.52% CAGR.
Visa and Mastercard U.S. debit CIF gained 5.6% YOY from a revised 772 million one-year ago to 821 million for 4Q/19, and compared to a revised 808 million for 2Q/19. For the prior year Visa and Mastercard U.S. debit CIF increased 7.4% YOY. Visa and Mastercard U.S. debit card CIF is now running at a 5.33% CAGR, according to analysis by RAM Research and PYRPTS.
International Payment Cards
Visa and Mastercard international credit CIF increased 6.4% YOY, from a revised 1399 million one-year ago to 1489 million for 3Q/19, and compared to a revised 1464 million for the prior quarter. For the prior year Visa and Mastercard international credit CIF increased 4.2% YOY. Visa and Mastercard international credit card CIF is now running at a 4.06% CAGR.
Visa and Mastercard international debit CIF increased 5.5% YOY, from a revised 2556 million one-year ago to 2697 million for 3Q/19, and compared to a revised 2661 million for 2Q/19. For the prior year Visa and Mastercard international debit CIF increased 7.1% YOY. Visa and Mastercard international debit card CIF is now running at a 6.88% CAGR.
American Express Global Credit/Charge CIF
American Express global payment CIF was essentially flat YOY (-0.2%) from 115.1 million one-year ago to 114.5 million for 3Q/19, and compared to 114.2 million for 2Q/19. For the prior year American Express global credit/charge CIF increased 1.9% YOY. American Express global CIF is now running at a 0.62% CAGR.
During the second-half AXP introduced the Vitality Cashback Credit Card in the U.K., refreshed its AIR MILES Platinum Credit Card in Canada, upgraded its iconic Green Card in the U.S. and launched the Business Edge card in Canada
Discover/Diners Club Global Credit/Charge CIF
Discover and Diners Club global payment CIF was flat YOY from an 72.3 million one-year ago to an 72.4 million for 3Q/19, and compared to an 72.3 million for the prior quarter. For the prior year Discover and Diners Club global CIF increased by 8.0% YOY. Discover and Diners Club global CIF is now running at a 2.14% CAGR.
During the second-half, Discover began a contactless card rollout in the U.S. and added P2P to its U.S. card products. Additionally, D]The Discover.Diners Global Network signed significant acceptance agreements internationally.


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This week’s episode of “WisBusiness: the Podcast” features a conversation with John Umhoefer, executive director of the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association.
He discusses some of the top growth markets for Wisconsin cheese exports, highlighting some trends in cheese consumption for certain Asian and Middle Eastern countries. He also points to the importance of Mexico and Canada as consumers of cheeses made in the state.
Umhoefer explains how the pandemic has affected U.S. cheese consumption, as well as supply chain issues. He describes an “amazing roller coaster ride” in 2020 due to the economic shutdown caused by the pandemic.
“The cheese price at the wholesale level went to a record low of a dollar per pound, and then eight weeks later it went to a record high of three dollars a pound when things began to open up in the summer of 2020,” he said. “None of the supply chain had any cheese because they basically put a halt on things. It was a crazy ride in 2020, and we’re still feeling the effects. Some are positive, some are negative.”
The discussion also touches on some of the Cheese Makers Association’s top lobbying priorities, including a “truth-in-labeling” effort to restrict the usage of certain dairy product names like cheese and milk.
Listen to the podcast below, sponsored by UW-Madison:


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Based on popular demand, the brand has now expanded its popular collection to include the fresh addition of the Iconic Link in 40 mm especially for men.
- News from Mediawire agency
News from Mediawire agency
2 years ago
The packaging industry is up against some unique challenges in the face of COVID-19. The 21-day nationwide lockdown has brought the entire packaging supply chain to an almost grinding halt.
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Following the appearance of a listing for the Xbox 360 on Play.com - complete with a price tag of £399 and a launch date of November 29 - Microsoft has told Eurogamer that it's all mere guesswork on Play's part.
"The stories currently running on some retail sites regarding Xbox 360 launch price, launch timings and launch line up are pure speculation," said a representative. "We have not yet announced any specific launch details."
The listing has changed a little since yesterday - and no doubt since Microsoft got wind of it. The November 29 date has now disappeared from view, and a disclaimer has been added to the page: "The UK price and release date have not been confirmed and are subject to change.
"If the retail price is decreased you will receive the lower price," says Play.
There's still a full list of games up though, priced at £39.99 a pop - apparently saving you a tenner off the RRP. Call of Duty 2 is billed as the top seller, followed by Project Gotham 360 and Quake 4.
"Stay tuned for more information," Microsoft told us. Will do.


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ADVISORY, Sept. 4, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
Quartz, a digital global business news brand, will visit the NASDAQ MarketSite in Times Square in celebration of its 2nd Anniversary.
In honor of the occasion, Jay Lauf, president and publisher, and Kevin Delaney, president and editor-in-chief, will ring the Closing Bell.
NASDAQ MarketSite – 4 Times Square – 43rd & Broadway – Broadcast Studio
Friday, September 5, 2014 – 3:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET
Quartz Media Contact:
Fiber Line (Encompass Waterfront): 4463
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For multimedia features such as exclusive content, photo postings, status updates and video of bell ceremonies please visit our Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/NASDAQ.
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For exciting viral content and ceremony photos visit Tumblr Page: http://nasdaq.tumblr.com/
A webcast of the NASDAQ Closing Bell will be available at: https://new.livestream.com/nasdaq/live or http://www.nasdaq.com/about/marketsitetowervideo.asx
To obtain a hi-resolution photograph of the Market Close, please go to http://www.nasdaq.com/reference/marketsite_events.stm and click on the market close of your choice.
Quartz (qz.com) is a digitally native, global, business news brand launched by Atlantic Media in September 2012. It provides a 24/7 digital guide to the new global economy designed to serve business professionals who travel the world, are focused on international markets and value critical thinking. Quartz is optimized for access on tablets and mobile devices, and is also easily accessible on computers. Free and built for social distribution with no pay walls, registration walls, or app downloads, Quartz can be accessed simply at qz.com.
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TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust.
The Xbox 360 may be five years old this November (has it been that long?), but Microsoft expects this to be a "very big year," calling 2010 the "mid-lifecycle" of the console. In an interview, Microsoft executive Chris Lewis told Gamesindustry.biz that the platform at least another five years of life.
With the redesigned Xbox 360 and new Kinect motion controller, the company says it will enjoy ongoing momentum and continue offering great experiences for people. "We continue to attach more games than competitive platforms and we have the healthiest ecosystem with 25 million people connected through Xbox Live."
The chat also cleared up concerns about whether Microsoft would abandon the hardcore market with the release of Kinect, instead favoring casual gamers. Lewis said that the company will remain committed to its hardcore audience, but it wants to enter the casual market and it will do so without alienating its core customers.
You can read the full interview here, although you'll have to register (it's free).


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Entrepreneurs have found it very easy to attract surrogate investments. Last year the cryptocurrency investments in Russian startup projects have increased tenfold and reached $ 200 000 000, as reported by CryptoBazar platform. The experts explain such dynamics by the lack of strict regulation of the cryptocurrency stock markets, saying that it is easier to raise funds there than by more traditional means. However, there is a flip side to that, and that is the lower risk-proof rate of such investments.
In Russia, the aspiring entrepreneurs face difficulties while trying to attract some investments to their business: banks tend to be very reserved at providing loans for high-risk projects, whereas venture capital investors try to impose disadvantageous terms. Therefore, and against the background of drastic popularization of cryptocurrency agenda, the startuppers increasingly shift to ICO-based mechanisms of project development.
– Banks are very reluctant to give loans to farmers. Even if they do so now and then, the payment conditions are very harsh. It is like they are letting me buy a goat, but taking away my house for that. Having launched an ICO instead, I’m now paying back by my own products and have enough clients” – Mikhail Shlyapnikov, the farmer and “Kolinovo Ecosystem” ICO project initiator said to “Izvestia”.
He launched colions – a cryptocurrency of his own – followed by ICO. As a result, the farmer managed to raise the cryptocurrency amount worth $510 500 from 103 participants to the project. Now he supplies saplings, potatoes and poultry for his “bonds outstanding”.
– Last year, Russian entrepreneurs managed to attract cryptocurrency investments from all over the world worth more than $ 200 000 000. The year before these were ten times less. More than a hundred of projects was launched by the Russian startuppers in 2017, whereas in 2016 there were around 20 at best,” – Oleg Ivanov, the founder of CryptoBazar platform and the homonymous foundation stated.
According to expert estimates, every fifth currently existent ICO was made by people originating from Russia. In total, teams from Russia have raised more than $ 260 000 000 in last four years, which is 11% fraction of world’s cryptocurrency investments for this period. SONM supercomputer ($42 000 000), “Russian Mining Company” (RMC) ($45 000 000) and MobileGo mobile game platform ($53 000 000) are all among these. There are some industrial production projects as well, such as ZrCoin ($ 4 500 000), the industrial startup for synthetic zirconium dioxide production.


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Reflecting another jump in energy prices, the Labor Department released a report on Friday showing U.S. producer prices increased in line with economist estimates on the month of February.
The Labor Department said its producer price index for final demand climbed by 0.5 percent in February after surging up by 1.3 percent in January. The price growth matched expectations.
The increase in producer prices was partly due to a continued spike in energy prices, which shot up by 6.0 percent in February after soaring by 5.1 percent in January. Gasoline prices skyrocketed by 13.1 percent.
Food prices also showed a significant increase, jumping by 1.3 percent in February after edging up by 0.2 percent in the previous month.
Excluding prices for food, energy, and trade services, core producer prices crept up by 0.2 percent in February following a 1.2 percent jump in January. Core prices also rose in line with estimates.
The uptick in core prices was partly due to a continued surge in prices for transportation and warehousing services, which climbed by 1.1 percent in February after increasing by 1.3 percent in January.
The report also showed the annual rate of growth in producer prices spiked to 2.8 percent in February from 1.7 percent in January.
Core producer prices in February were up by 2.2 percent compared to the same month a year ago, reflecting an uptick from the 2.0 percent growth in January.
“While underlying price pressures will inevitably heat up amid a healthier, fiscally stimulated economy and strong base effects, we believe inflation is unlikely to spiral out of control,” said Mahir Rasheed, Associate U.S. Economist at Oxford Economics.
Rasheed added, “The Fed should therefore look through the transitory spike and stick to a very dovish policy stance.”
On Wednesday, the Labor Department released a separate report showing consumer prices also increased in line with economist estimates in the month of February.
The Labor Department said its consumer price index climbed by 0.4 percent in February after rising by 0.3 percent in January. The increase in prices matched expectations.
Gasoline prices led the way higher once again, surging up by 6.4 percent in February following a 7.4 percent spike in January.
Excluding food and energy prices, core consumer prices inched up by 0.1 percent in February after coming in unchanged for two straight months. Economists had expected core prices to rise by 0.2 percent.
On an annual basis, consumer price growth accelerated to 1.7 percent in February from 1.4 percent in January but core price growth slowed to 1.3 percent from 1.4 percent.
The material has been provided by InstaForex Company – www.instaforex.com


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Patents used to protect intellectual property. Now they stifle innovation.
Patents are the gold standard of national competitiveness. The more we have, Americans often think, the more innovative our economy is.
That’s a big mistake, according to Michele Boldrin and David K. Levine. Patents don’t often encourage innovation—they stifle it. Companies use the system to freeze out competition and leach off the commercial successes of others. Writing in Journal of Economic Perspectives, the authors, both economists at Washington University in St. Louis, argue that the patent system should be abolished.
The real engine of innovation and economic growth is competition. Companies and individuals profit handsomely when they beat competitors to a new idea. After the iPhone’s debut in 2007, Apple sold more than five million of its game-changing devices before rivals could muster a challenge. Even then, the iPhone’s peerless design—not patent protections—allowed the company to reap lavish profits.
In theory, a perfectly designed, rationally administered patent system would work well. But in the real world, maturing industries flex their political muscles to game the system and protect themselves from competition.
Compounding the problem is the fact that today’s products often contain so many patentable components. In 1983, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted about 60,000 patents. By 2010, the annual number—which by then included software innovations, as a result of a 1994 court case—had quadrupled, to some 244,000.
The patent glut accomplished little. “Academic studies have . . . typically failed to find much of a connection between patents and innovation,” Boldrin and Levine write. Instead, it has created a Scylla-and-Charybdis world in which innovators must navigate between infringing on countless patents and paying multitudes of stiff licensing fees. When Google made a foray into the mobile phone market, for example, Apple and Microsoft used patent suits to slow the creative newcomer.
To avoid such headaches, Google forked out $12.5 billion in 2012 to purchase Motorola Mobility, Motorola’s smartphone arm. With the acquisition came a trove of Motorola patents. “Google’s purpose in obtaining this patent portfolio is purely defensive,” the authors write. “It can be used to countersue Apple and Microsoft.” Google is not alone in using this strategy. Companies spend vast sums every year to buy intellectual property of dubious real value.
Legal battles waste more time and money. One study found that during the 1990s companies spent an amount equivalent to 14 percent of their research and development budgets on patent litigation.
Big pharmaceutical companies are among the staunchest defenders of patents. Without patent protection, they contend, drugs developed at enormous cost would be swiftly copied, making it hard to recover expenses and discouraging future innovation. But Boldrin and Levine say it takes a long time for competitors to reverse-engineer pathbreaking drugs. The authors also point out that some 80 percent of the $1 billion it typically takes to develop a new drug is consumed by the final phase of clinical tests required by law. There are much cheaper ways to help manufacturers recoup that expense—including government subsidies—than granting them monopolies that cost consumers dearly.
Other patent champions insist that patents foster collaboration and transparency. Not true: Today’s patent applications are carefully designed to be incomprehensible to anyone but a patent attorney.
Not coincidentally, attorneys lobby hard to defeat reform. So do so-called patent trolls, companies that amass patents merely for the purpose of suing alleged infringers. In 2006, a company called NTP Inc. claimed that the maker of the BlackBerry mobile phone, Research in Motion, was infringing on one of NTP’s patents. Research in Motion paid NTP a $613 million licensing fee. A court subsequently invalidated NTP’s patent, but the company kept the fee anyway.
Boldrin and Levine would prefer to scrap patents entirely. If that’s too radical a solution, they suggest limiting their number and duration, a reform that would free competitors from today’s morass. “The patent system arose as a way to limit the power of royalty to award monopolies to favored individuals,” the authors observe. “But now,” they conclude, “its primary effect is to encourage large but stagnant incumbent firms to block innovation and inhibit competition.”
THE SOURCE: “The Case Against Patents” by Michele Boldrin and David K. Levine, in Journal of Economic Perspectives, Winter 2013.


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In the never-ending war of one-upsmanship, we have a Bloomberg report that Samsung is also working on its wearable devices line by developing a wristwatch. This confirms rumors from last month about a Samsung watch in the making.
During an interview in Seoul, Korea – Lee Young Hee who is E.V.P of Samsung’s mobile business said “We’ve been preparing the watch product for so long…we are working very hard to get ready for it. We are preparing products for the future, and the watch is definitely one of them.” Hee did not give a glimpse behind the curtain regarding features or pricing. Some attest Samsung’s disclosure about their watch to based on reports that Apple has about 100 product designers working on everything from shape of the glass and housing to map capabilities, bio-sensors, and a complete iOS.
According to rumors coming out of the Cupertino campus, Apple wants to introduce the iWatch (unofficial but makes sense) later this year. If that happens, they can set the market with a price that can capture the initial influx of consumers who may turn out to be loyalists to their platform – outside of the present Apple loyalists of course – for the smart watch. In that regard, Apple would have an advantage on pricing. Then again, if Samsung were to deliver the goods first the advantage could lie with them just as easily as many would be expecting an OS much akin to the Android platform.
Considering that both Samsung and Apple are fully aware that smartphone sales are slowing down (analysts project growth will slow to 9.8% by 2017 down from 27% this year) the race for a smart watch is on. Wearable devices are expected to be big business especially if an item like a smart watch can sync with already owned devices such as a tablet or smartphone. The key will be ease of use and style.
A new product line is needed and the first to deliver wins. For now at least.


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Atlus has released a Japanese TV commercial for Dragon’s Crown Pro. In-store demo events in four separate locations were also announced.
Posts related to Vanillaware.
Atlus USA has announced that pre-ordering a copy of Dragon’s Crown Pro in North America will secure a copy of the “Battle-Hardened Edition” of the game.
A gameplay demo of the English version of Dagon’s Crown Pro was shown off at PlayStation Experience 2017 by members of Atlus USA.
Atlus USA has announced the Western release of Dragon’s Crown Pro for the PS4 and PS4 Pro in Spring 2018.
The list of retailer exclusive pre-order bonuses for the Japanese release of Dragon’s Crown Pro has been fully updated today.
Atlus has uploaded the third in a series of character trailers for the upcoming Dragon’s Crown Pro remaster, featuring the “Elf”.
The exhibitors for next month’s PlayStation Experience 2017 event have been announced, as well as a list of the titles that will be available to play there.


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Meta sues surveillance company for scraping user data with fake Facebook accounts
Voyage Labs has been intentionally surveilling public data
➡ The Shortcut Skinny: Voyage Labs lawsuit
🔨 Meta has sued to block a data-scraping company from its platforms
🔎 Voyage Labs collects publicly available social media data for commercial use
🦶 But Meta wants to kick Voyage Labs off Facebook and Instagram
🚫 It’s taken out a lawsuit alleging the company has violated its terms of service
Meta is taking legal action against a company that allegedly created fake Facebook accounts to collect public user data for its own business and surveillance services.
Voyager Labs is a self-styled “world leader in advanced AI-based investigation solutions” that monitors and collects large troves of social media data to make behavioral predictions.
It lists government and law enforcement agencies, as well as private sector companies, among its clients, and a Guardian investigation in 2019 revealed it had partnered with the Los Angeles Police Department to surveil citizens and monitor potential threats.
Meta alleges Voyager Labs improperly collected data from Facebook, Instagram and other websites. According to CNBC, the legal filing alleges the company created over 38,000 fake Facebook accounts alone that scraped publicly posted information from more than 600,000 other, real users of the platform.
Meta says it disabled over 60,000 accounts associated with Voyager Labs and is seeking an injunction against it after it violated its terms of service. It’s also requesting the firm give up its “ill-gotten profits in an amount to be proven at trial”.
“Voyager developed and used proprietary software to launch scraping campaigns against Facebook and Instagram, and websites such as Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and Telegram,” Meta said.
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“Voyager designed its scraping software to use fake accounts to scrape data accessible to a user when logged into Facebook, including users’ profile information, posts, friends lists, photos and comments,” it added.
“Voyager used a diverse system of computers and networks in different countries to hide its activity, including when Meta subjected the fake accounts to verifications or checks. Voyager did not compromise Facebook, instead it used fake accounts to scrape publicly viewable information.”
Meta was made to settle a lawsuit itself last December, coughing up $725m million after it was alleged the tech giant illegally allowed consulting firm Cambridge Analytica and other third-party companies to access Facebook users’ personal data. A few weeks before that it laid off over 11,000 employees and CEO Mark Zuckerberg admitted he’d overestimated the company’s growth
It’s not only social media platforms that have to deal with fake accounts. Last year, Amazon filed a lawsuit against admins of more than 10,000 Facebook groups to combat fake product reviews. The groups offered money and other forms of compensation in exchange for positive, bogus Amazon reviews, tricking users into purchasing a supposedly five-star item and boosting the seller’s visibility on the platform.


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AUSTIN, Texas -- The smartphone of the future is going to require a "revolution" in thinking about technical design and "not enough people are prepared" for the challenges coming in here years, the president of Samsung Electronics said in his keynote at the Design Automation Conference (DAC) here today.
Based on the chip and electronic design automation (EDA) in existence today, the industry has done well with smartphones so far and will roll along for the next two or three years, said Dr. NamSung ("Stephen") Woo, president of Samsung Electronics and general manager of the System LSI business. But the smartphone of the future is going to be one that has a flexible screen that can be folded like a handkerchief, plus better and new applications and high-end cameras that demand a profound design overhaul.
Putting forward a vision of the future smartphone, Woo suggested the broader semiconductor industry and the electronic-design automation industry, the audience he was addressing, and Samsung, too, need to do things a lot differently than they do today.
"We still have to use over a dozen chips to build a smartphone," said Woo. But smartphones are being asked to perform more services, such as voice command, location-based services, Web browsing and applications like gaming, as display-screen resolution and camera sensors improve dramatically. The basic engineering design challenge that relates to space, battery, low-power and heat level is soon going to hit a sort of crunch time.
That's because of the advent of "flexible display," a bendable screen that can fold up like a handkerchief and be unfolded again for use, Woo said.
Flexible screens, an innovation first shown by Samsung, is clearly a "disruptive technology," said Woo. It not only "requires a new look" for a smartphone, it calls for the need of a "system on a chip" which doesn't really exist today, he pointed out. "Still what we have is a system on a dozen chips, not a system on a chip."
It's going to require new technologies for three to five years from now to meet the challenges of the smartphone of the future. But today, the industry is not yet pointed toward it. "We are not there. We are walking one way that's good so far," said Woo, but Samsung, like others, "may have to shift our direction to address this challenge."
Ellen Messmer is senior editor at Network World, an IDG publication and website, where she covers news and technology trends related to information security. Twitter: @MessmerE. Email: firstname.lastname@example.org.
Read more about anti-malware in Network World's Anti-malware section.


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Culture Kings collaborated with Timberland for an exclusive 6-inch premium boot collaboration with six fresh colorways.
VIBES, the rolling papers and apparel brand from rapper and entrepreneur Berner, rolled out a new fashion line inspired by MLB teams.
Summer Smash, the music festival curated by Lyrical Lemonade, partnered with fashion brand Culture Kings for an exclusive merch drop.
Major League Soccer (MLS) and October's Very Own (OVO) launch a new capsule collection featuring three MLS teams.
One of the most anticipated drops is almost upon us. The Telfasr x Eastpark collection has been unveiled to the public.
The latest campaign from Savage X Fenty is known as "Love On The Edge," and the distinction is an honest assessment of the new offerings.
In celebration of Xbox's 20th anniversary, the company dropped a collection that highlights the Microsoft brand's trademark colors.
Whether you like his style or not, Tyler, The Creator’s eye for quality can’t be denied. His preference in suitcases isn’t cheap and we finally find out why.
The veteran comedian and television host is extending his season of drip, and folks on Twitter have some comments about his latest fits.
. In recent weeks, the comedian and television host has made some more bold choices in those areas, and his latest outfit has Twitter reacting only as they can.
A photo of Gunna's outfit at New York Fashion Week hit the Internets and fans on Twitter are really going hard with the slander.
A fan on Twitter posted a photo from 2003 of Pharrell while remarking that it's the way some dress today, and others on the social media network are agreeing.


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Honor 20 Renders Online with Triple Rear Cameras & in-display Fingerprint Sensor
Honor 20 which is the successor of the Honor 10 smartphone launched in 2018 has leaked online. The device has been leaked by a leaker called iChangezone in high-quality HD renders. Recently we have seen Honor announcing its V20 smartphone in China and now this new device could be introduced soon. According to the leaks, the smartphone will be priced around 2999 Yuan (approx Rs. 36,000) for the 6GB RAM variant while the 8GB variant could be priced at 3399 Yuan (approx Rs. 40,000).
The device is said to be featuring a 6.1-inch 2340 x 1080 pixels (FHD+) resolutions with OLED display and could come with a 2650mAh battery with the support for 22.5W fast charging support. Under the hood, there could be Huawei’s own Kirin 980 chipset coupled with 6GB/8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It will come out of the box with Android 9 Pie Oreo operating system with EMUI 9.0 on top. The handset will also receive further updates when available for it.
The onboard storage on the handset is 128GB/256GB and we are not sure if it would come with a dedicated microSD card slot as of now. This dual SIM variant is said to be coming with a 48MP rear camera along with a secondary 20MP Ultra Wide Angle lens and an 8MP Telephoto lens with 3x lossless zoom. There is also a 32MP selfie camera for providing high-quality video calling and images.
Furthermore, the Honor 20 is said to be coming with an in-display fingerprint sensor but we need to wait for more days to officially get all the information on the same. The device could be introduced later this month but nothing is known about the exact launch date as of now. Are you planning to get this handset? Comment in the section below and stay tuned to PhoneRadar for more news and updates.


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An Australian man who spotted "the girl of his dreams" in a supermarket is on an Internet hunt to find her, in spite of the fact people are finding it creepy.
Brok Neilson, from the Gold Coast in Queensland, thought he had experienced love at first sight when he spotted a mystery brunette from afar in the fruit and vegetable section of Woolworths on Monday. What began as a Facebook post, soon spiralled into an online campaign to reunite the pair.
Although some find the gesture romantic, the ordeal has faced heavy backlash from people who don't see the rosy side of capturing and sharing a photograph online of a woman who didn't give her consent.
How the story unfolded
Blake Mitchell Nicholls, a friend of Brok Neilson, posted on the Woolworths Facebook page on Monday, asking if the supermarket chain could help with finding a mystery brunette girl, who was apparently shopping for mushrooms. A distant photo with the girl's back turned was attached to the post.
"I was at Woolworths (Q Super Centre) this evening at 7:38pm (AEST) with my friend Brok buying fresh produce to make butter chicken when he's glanced over at the girl of his dreams," Nicholls wrote. "Girl buying mushrooms if you read this, we will be in this section every night at 7:38pm until we meet again."
The post culminated in an online campaign created by Neilson's friends to find the mystery woman, titled Hope For Brok. Long story short, the original post gathered thousands of likes and shares from the public, and attracted a pun-heavy reply from the supermarket chain.
"Next time tell Brok not be chicken, just rice up and say hello! We hear love grows in the produce department," a spokesperson for the company wrote on Twitter, with a winking face emoji in tow.
Soon enough, this so-called social media romance was picked up by the Australian media, as the quest for Neilsen's unrequited love continued. But it was soon to take a negative turn.
The criticism: Is it cyberstalking?
Neilson's quest for love was quickly criticised online, with many labelling it "creepy" and an act of harassment. Commentators wondered why Neilsen didn't just approach her — instead of taking a photo from behind and using the Internet to find her.
Some people highlighted the fact the unknown woman didn't consent to the photo, and were not certain if she was open to these kinds of pseudo-romantic approaches.
It also became the focus for a number of opinion pieces disparaging the campaign, one of which by The Guardian's Elle Hunt, took aim at not only the act of taking the photo and sharing it, but also the media for reporting "on every bozo's bid for internet infamy."
"Whether or not these stories have 'happy endings' is sort of beside the point: women have a right to be in public spaces (and private ones!) without being co-opted into some bloke's bid for 'love' or likes," Hunt wrote.
The people behind the Hope For Brok campaign are yet to respond to any of the criticism when asked by Mashable Australia.
It could be an elaborate hoax
Put on your tin foil hats, this story could be a ruse to make us think Woolworths supermarkets are an ideal location to start a dalliance.
While we're yet to see any evidence to suggest so, the swift transformation from Facebook post to online campaign raises questions, although it's highly conceivable that Neilson's mates are likely just an enthusiastic match-making bunch.
Although to further add to the conspiracy theory, it is nearly one year to the day since the supermarket's widely lambasted "Fresh In Our Memories" Anzac Day campaign was launched, as one tweeter pointed out.
Despite the critics, the search continues
"Mystery brunette's friend came to meet us to make sure Brok isn't a creep and it's a match! Who knows what will happen next with this mysterious brunette!" an admin wrote on the Hope For Brok page.
The update included a recent photo taken of the mystery girl. A "mate" of Brok's named Adrian, who is managing the Hope for Brok Facebook page, told Mashable Australia on Messenger the photograph was captured by a friend of the girl's. It is not yet known if or when the pair will meet face-to-face. "I can't say much just yet, but she sent her friend back to meet us," Adrian said.
As the story continues to steal the Internet's attention, the question still remains for many people: Is it okay to photograph and share a photo of a woman in public online, if it's apparently for love?
Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.


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Omnicom Group's TBWA\ and PHD to handle Lead School's creative and media
Account won post a multi-agency pitch
Jun 21, 2021 07:23:00 AM | Article | Campaign India Team Share -
Lead School, a player in the edtech space, has announced the appointment of TBWA\ and PHD, as its creative and media partner. The mandate, won during a multi-agency pitch, will be managed from Mumbai.
TBWA\ has been appointed to develop communication and creative strategy across television, outdoor and digital. PHD's mandate is to handle media buying and planning.
Anupam Gurani, chief marketing officer, Lead School said, “TBWA\ and PHD are admired globally for their campaigns that are testimony to their disruptive and digital-first brand storytelling and creative thought process. We are confident that this synergy will create a strong brand story for Lead School which complements with our proposition of delivering a highly enriching and personalized educational experience to students, parents through our partner schools and teachers. We are excited to partner with TBWA and PHD in our journey of building Lead School as India’s most loved education brand.”
Govind Pandey, CEO, TBWA India, said, “It is inspiring for us to partner with LEAD School in creating a disruptive brand with the purpose that every child deserves an excellent education. We look forward to this journey together fulfilling this vision.”
Parixit Bhattacharya, managing partner - creative, TBWA\, said, “The Edtech category is ripe for disruption. We look forward to creating an inspiring brand with the energising team at Lead School. After all, it is not every day that you get to work on the future of the nation.”
Monaz Todywalla, CEO, PHD Media, said, “We are excited to partner with Lead School for its national media mandate. Customisation is the keyword of the decade and Llead School is bringing that to education by seamlessly integrating it with technology but through a unique platform that enables the entire ecosystem. We hope to bring their mission to life with our resources and lead Lead School to a resounding digital growth.”


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Our database is updated daily through information sent by vendors and distributors. Here are the latest updates :
Arabian peninsula and Iran
Russia and CIS
Ingram Micro gets global cloud force in place
Broadliner Ingram Micro has amassed a 300-strong force of dedicated cloud experts to execute its global cloud plans and is expanding the team further to cope with demand. Earlier this year the distribution giant unveiled its Ingram Micro Cloud Marketplace plans at its Global Cloud Summit in Florida, which it claimed would offer a complete ecosystem of buyers, sellers and solutions to enable simple and rapid cloud adoption. Resellers would also have access to a number of "white glove" services including technical sales engineering, migration, remote infrastructure management and service desk. Initially rolled out in the US earlier this month, the initiative is set to be unveiled in Canada next month, Mexico in August and Europe for Q4.
Moravia in the education market with Fourier
Science education device/probeware vendor Fourier Education has appointed sparepart and mobility specialist Moravia Europe as official distributor in Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Exertis Micro-P brings sound to life through Audio Pro distribution
United Kingdom: satisfying the needs of appreciators of high quality sound, is set to become easier for resellers, as broadliner Exertis Micro-P has been appointed a distributor of Audio Pro's range of home wireless audio loudspeakers. Combining elegant Swedish design with high quality sound at the best price, Audio Pro's range offers wired and wireless hi-fi solutions to optimise any occasion, whether listening to music or watching a film or DVD.
Omnilogic distributes Kofax
Romanian infrastructure VAD Omnilogic has been appointed official distributor by Kofax for Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia.
TIM in the cloud with Quantum
Germany: storage VAD TIM has expanded its partnership with Quantum and is now authorized to distribute its MSP hardware and software offer, for VARs who wish to build their own cloud, on Quantum technologies.
Cyberoam partners with SNB
Middle East: UTM vendor Cyberoam, which has been acquired by Sophos, has appointed Dubai-based network and security VAD SNB Middle East as a distribution partner for the Middle East region. SNB will be the authorized distributor for the vendor in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. As a value-added distributor, it will provide sales support, market intelligence, pre-sales support and commercial skills services for the entire Cyberoam stack to its value-added reseller partners.
Swivel in partnership with ePrinus
Poland: security VAD ePrinus has been chosen by authentication specialist Swivel as new official distributor in the country.
A new channel manager for Westcon
South Africa: the software solutions division of network and telecom VAD Westcon has appointed Bianca Dalgarno as new channel manager for Microsoft volume licensing. Bianca brings with her 16 years of experience in the IT industry, nine of which have seen her in the positions of Microsoft licensing specialist and Microsoft licensing manager at previous companies, and the most recent of which she held at Dell SA.
MUK monitors traffic with Infowatch
Ukraine: despite war with Russia, infrastructure VAD MUK has reached a deal with Russian DLP vendor Infowatch, and will distribute its Endpoint Security, Traffic Monitor Standard and Traffic Monitor Enterprise Appliance in the country, as well as in Armenia, Georgia and Moldova.
Huawei appoints Memodis
France: Chinese vendor Huawei has appointed storage VAD Memodis as official distributor for its servers and storage solutions.
Last 30 news
Moravia in the education market with Fourier 2014-07-24
Omnilogic distributes Kofax 2014-07-24
TIM in the cloud with Quantum 2014-07-24
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Swivel in partnership with ePrinus 2014-07-23
A new channel manager for Westcon 2014-07-23
MUK monitors traffic with Infowatch 2014-07-23
Huawei appoints Memodis 2014-07-23
A new MD for SecureData 2014-07-22
Ingram Micro bets on wearables 2014-07-22
Stéphane Courgeon back in the distribution 2014-07-22
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