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Photo Gallery: 2013 Shelby GT500 in Red Candy
Ford has more than a dozen Mustangs on display here at Barrett-Jackson, from SEMA concept cars to the entire 2013 lineup including special packages like the California Special. One of our favorites, though, is this 2013 Shelby GT500 painted in Red Candy. This color hasn’t been available on the GT500 in previous years, and it’s a shame because it’s an excellent combination, especially with the upgraded SVT Performance Package wheels. We definitely prefer it to Race Red (which has been available on the GT500 for the past few years).
You can see our live photos of the 2013 Shelby GT500 in Red Candy in the gallery below, and be sure to check back for more Mustang coverage at Barrett-Jackson over the next couple of days.
Photos ©2012 MustangsDaily.com
- Barrett-Jackson 2012: 1965 Shelby GT350 barn find sells for $385,000
- 1965 Shelby GT350 barn find to go up for auction at Barrett-Jackson in January
- First 2012 Shelby GT350 nets $137,500 at Barrett-Jackson
- Mustang FR500S with turnkey race package to be auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson for charity
- Shelby unveils 2011 GT350 at Barrett-Jackson
- Photo Gallery: Shelby GT Widebody
- Matching Ring Brothers Mustangs going up for auction at Barrett-Jackson
- Mint 1968 Shelby GT500 Convertible sells for $330,000 at Barrett-Jackson in Palm Beach
- First retail 2015 Ford Mustang to be auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson
- Barrett-Jackson 2014: 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 brings $291,500


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What makes a packaging concept not only functional and visually appealing, but also able to interact with our senses, when it comes to sound, touch, taste, or smell? That’s the challenge for this year’s design students in BillerudKorsnäs’ Packaging Impact Design Award, PIDA.
The competition aims to highlight young talents and their ideas but also push the development of packaging design even further. It has engaged thousands of students throughout the years and 2021 marks the 16th event since its inception in 2005.
This year, organisers are not only developing the competition into a modern, digital event but also expanding geographically to let design schools in the USA compete. During May and June, BillerudKorsnäs will host the competition at four events: Sweden, France, Germany, and a joint event for the UK and the USA. In September, an international winner will be selected in a Grand Finale at Luxe Pack Monaco.
“When we launched PIDA, we wanted to challenge the conventions of the industry and drive the development of packaging design forward, which is why we chose to highlight young new talents and their ideas,” said BillerudKorsnäs manager application development paperboard, Lenna Dahlberg. “Our hope [was] that their creativity and smart solutions would contribute with inspiration and new thinking for the whole industry, which is something that the students have really lived up to. Over the years, we have seen loads of smart and innovative packaging solutions, and naturally expectations are high this year as well.”
She continued: “The brief this year is Awaken the Senses, which encourages the students to create a sustainable, innovative, and functional packaging concept that stands out compared to the conventional applications that we find in stores today. The packing needs to engage our senses. It can be about making an impression through smell, sound, or tactile experience.”
Organisers have seen a big trend on social media around the theme ‘awaken our, with unboxing videos where consumers unbox a product while smelling, touching, rustling, and studying every little graphical detail now frequently seen on channels like YouTube.
“Packaging that speaks to our senses is a fast-developing trend,” said BillerudKorsnäs marketing manager Anders Gathu. “In the future, we can expect packaging concepts with sound effects, visual illusions and augmented reality. In an increasingly digital world, the packaging needs to stand out and in the interaction with consumers speak to all their senses.”
Students compete in four different categories: sustainability, user friendliness, innovation, and Gold Award – winner of all categories. The jury at each individual event consists of experts from the industry. The ‘Gold Award’ winners of the four PIDA events will meet in an international grand finale at the prestigious packaging trade show LuxePack in Monaco this autumn. The winning team in the final will be invited to participate in a design summit in Frövi, Sweden later this year.
Mr Gathu concludes: “PIDA offers a win-win situation for students as well as for the audience. Aside from the actual competition, PIDA offers a unique opportunity for the participating students to create relationships and build themselves a network within the packaging industry – while the audience gets to enjoy an enlightening and entertaining event filled with inspiration, creativity, and innovation.”

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The rise of the share economy – a wave of “non-ownership” spurred by companies like Uber and Airbnb – has been climbing for years, and it certainly has a hold on the millennial generation. Things that used to be considered status symbols, like home ownership and multi-car garages, have gone by the wayside in today’s society.
What’s causing this shift? In short: technology. Thanks to smartphones, peer-to-peer business is easier and faster than ever. Fancy going for a walk tomorrow but don’t have a dog? There’s an app for that. Need somewhere to leave your car but the spaces are all Residents Only? There’s an app for that. Want your preloved items to go to an appreciative new home? There’s an app for that. For just about any need (or want) you may have, there’s a piece of technology within reach allowing the community to be your new source of pseudo-ownership.
The longer answer to what’s causing this shift, however, is the desire to live a more sustainable lifestyle in a resource-conscious environment. And the rent-over-own mentality resonates heavily with the generation interested in only spending what’s needed, rather than investing in a depreciating product.
But what does the share economy mean for manufacturers?
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) – especially those with dealer networks – need to consider a shift in thinking that reflects the shift their customers are making. This is happening in the automotive industry with the introduction of subscription models that substitute owning or leasing a car. Clutch Technologies is a USA-based software platform that allows dealers and OEMs to sell vehicle subscriptions and related services. Monthly or daily car subscription includes insurance, maintenance, cleaning and taxes and a concierge service that delivers the vehicle of choice.
The Clutch software enables OEMs and dealers to offer these services efficiently and at scale. At the core of the platform sits a level of intelligence that understands consumer needs and matches them to vehicles, taking both the customer and the dealer experience to a whole new level. Porsche Cars North America has recently partnered with Clutch to pilot a sports car and SUV subscription program in Atlanta. Customers can fulfil the aspiration to drive a sports car for the commute and a people carrier for the weekend, for example.
Ensuring vehicles are in full working condition is critical to customer satisfaction and ultimately, profits. With a system rooted in keeping maintenance and supplemental costs at an all-time low for end-customers, Clutch, along with its competitors, is just one piece of the share economy puzzle that’s revolutionising the after-sales service supply chain.
It’s not just consumer products that are experiencing this shift – manufacturers and equipment rental companies are also preparing themselves to meet these new demands. Take “power by the hour,” for example: an agreement that allows a company to lease or rent equipment for a certain number of in-use hours, buying the functionality rather than the actual piece of equipment.
Rolls-Royce originally made the concept famous in the aviation industry, but for manufacturers of long-lasting durable goods, like heavy equipment or aircrafts, this is a model they must start watching. According to Grand View Research, the global construction equipment rental market is expected to reach $84.6 billion by 2022, due to increasing construction activities across the globe and rising government investment in emerging economies.
As with the car subscription model, rental companies and manufacturers must maximise equipment uptime to also maximise revenue. Being quick to react to service and repair requirements is good but to be excellent, the emphasis needs to be on pre-emptive maintenance, which requires more sophisticated management of service parts and after-sales service.
As with any business transformation, both challenges and opportunities exist for manufacturers and rental companies. Some organisations will need to transform and optimise their after-sales service departments to become more customer-centric and efficient. For the end-customer, it’s a win-win: with little risk associated with renting, replacement is less complicated, maintenance costs are lower and there are fewer transportation and servicing requirements.
As for manufacturers – organisations that don’t adopt rental models could get left in the dust, and those that do adopt rental models without improving the efficiency of their after-sales service functions will face challenges. The share economy can be a significant revenue driver, but companies must adopt the right technologies and business practices to be successful.


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The Philippine Retailers Association recently held its 4th annual Retail Executive Circle on October 27, 2021. Organized in partnership with Salesforce, this year’s exclusive and by-invite only virtual event was attended by top retail leaders and senior executives in the country.
Themed “Unlocking the full potential in your future of e-commerce business”, the event sought to address the shifts in consumer and business buyer engagement as well as expectations, and how digital commerce has changed the role of sales. There was a lively discussion around how to generate a single source of truth that enables personalization at scale and weaves loyalty throughout the customer experience.
The event was hosted by Raphael Layosa, Founder & CEO of Retailgate Technologies, Inc. and Chief Technology Officer of United Neon Media Group and Rosemarie Ong, President of PRA and Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Wilcon Depot welcomed the guests. They were joined by global thought leader Eron Sunando, Vice President – Commerce Cloud, Go to Market and Transformation of Salesforce, and guest panelist Deanna Rubiano, Chief Marketing Officer of Third Pillar Business Application Inc.
During the session, Sunando shared three (3) key tips to developing a successful marketing strategy in order to target the new wave of ecommerce shoppers.
- The Line Fades Between Physical and Digital Commerce
He said, “We are in the age of hyper-personalization and the content we are distributing across channels should be consistent”. He emphasized that last year, online is the lifeline for businesses. “If they (retailers) don’t have a strong strategy to engage their customers to purchase products and services online, the company will face an overall marketing challenge.”
“e-Commerce is really about omnichannel. It’s all about engaging your customer and prospect in the channel you want. They can start online and finish offline. They can start online and finish in the store. It really doesn’t matter and it’s time for retailers to stop treating e-Commerce as one channel,” said Sunando. “Retail shoppers are definitely embracing more creative and innovative digital experiences through live video, online selling and virtual demo rooms. These tools will help retail brands go to market faster and more effectively.”
- Direct-to-Consumer Initiatives Take Off
According to Salesforce’s latest State of Commerce Report [hyperlink to https://www.salesforce.com/ap/form/pdf/state-of-commerce/] , marketing leaders agree that COVID-19 is driving Digital Commerce. Sunando reveals that online grocery shopping is one of the fastest growing verticals in Q1 and Q3. “Customers will continue to buy essentials online. We saw a massive amount of increase in online grocery shopping. We think that this trend is here to stay and direct-to-consumer initiatives will become a priority for brands across diverse industries.”
- Shopping at the Edge Accelerates
Sunando then touched on the most exciting part, which is shopping at the edge. “One of the biggest bright spots to come out of this pandemic is that it has allowed more people to embrace and pursue creativity and innovation. ”
During the panel discussion, guest panelist Rubiano elaborated on the topic of experimentation, one of the best practices to engage with the right customers and target shoppers. “There are many consumers who are actually very vocal and they love to give feedback. We’re seeing a lot of retail brands who are owning and managing their own chat groups on social media to build their brand ambassadors and fans. These advocates are more likely to recommend these brands to their friends and community.
On the other hand, customer behaviours and expectations continue to evolve rapidly. Trends are no longer determined by a single industry or brand because of multiple consumer touchpoints and experiences. On the competition side, Sunando shared that it is starting to come from multiple fronts in a non-traditional sense. “It’s easy to disrupt right now.”
To conclude, Sunando and Rubiano shared some advice with C-level retail executives. Sunando said “You have to start listening actively to consumers, and be in the know on trends that are happening right now.” Rubiano agreed, “It’s our job now as business leaders to really focus on customers’ needs, and build around their expectations. That’s how we will gain a competitive edge.”
The 4th annual Retail Executive Circle Virtual Edition, the Philippines’ premier community for top retail executives and leaders, was made possible by our Content Partner and Host Sponsor Salesforce and our Program Partner Retailgate Technologies, Inc.
Salesforce is the #1 CRM, bringing companies closer to their customers in the digital age. For information, please visit www.salesforce.com.


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Ticket sales for the long-awaited return of AutoShow kicked off December 1st and consumers are demonstrating their hunger for the show’s return by snapping up tickets at a record pace.
Advance ticket sales are currently running more than 200 per cent higher than they were for the 2020 Show, and now there is even more reason to celebrate! The AutoShow is proud to announce the return of one of the Show’s most celebrated features, with the LEGO Group once again showcasing a new North American first-reveal of their latest full-size replica supercar.
Building on the incredible success of the life-size LEGO® TechnicTM Bugatti Chiron that was the star of the 2019 AutoShow, the LEGO brand will return with another life-size replica along with a LEGO Play zone and retail showcase to delight and entertain the young and young-at-heart. The exact replica to be displayed at the AutoShow will be disclosed in January, along with opportunities for young creators to showcase their imaginative designs in person.
“We are excited to announce the first special feature of the 2023 AutoShow and welcome the LEGO Group back as an integral part of the event,” says Jason Campbell, General Manager of the AutoShow. “The LEGO Group is not only a ubiquitous brand that is universally loved among children and adults, but also a brand that has had a long association with automobiles. Countless kids have grown up building their LEGO dream-cars – it will be exciting to showcase a full-scale LEGO dream creation here once again at the AutoShow this coming February.”
The LEGO Technic™ building sets have been around for more than 40 years, allowing fans of all ages to explore their limitless creativity. It’s a building system that not only challenges new designs, but also incorporates new engineering functions.
Building life-sized re-creations of super cars is a special challenge for LEGO designers and builders at the Kladno factory in the Czech Republic, which is also where the impressive models for LEGO Retail Stores and LEGOLAND parks have been built. The replicas are meticulous creations that mimic iconic shapes and functions while also providing a fascinating example of the LEGO® Technic™ building system’s potential.
“The LEGO Group and the Canadian International AutoShow are both very popular with families,” says Raquel Faria, Director of Marketing in Canada. “Cars are a near universal passion among kids and adults. As families visit the AutoShow to connect on that shared passion, we hope to inspire them through building with LEGO bricks.”
The 2023 Canadian International AutoShow will take place February 17th to 26th, 2023, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. It returns with an exciting new feature exhibit — Electric City is a one-stop destination for AutoShow attendees to learn everything about automotive electrification. It will be accompanied by a first for the AutoShow, an indoor EV Test Track that will excite and educate attendees firsthand on the benefits of driving electric vehicles. Attendees will be able to experience EVs right on the show floor.
Tickets are now on sale at autoshow.ca.


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Newport Consulting is pleased to present its inaugural South-East Asia (SE Asia) State of Play report, “Managing Change in a Growing Region”. For the last five years, we have conducted State of Play reports in Australia and New Zealand, delivering business leaders, government and media latest insights into the real business methods and thought processes of corporates.
The SE Asia region presents so many exciting opportunities for both local and global businesses, and many leaders want to reap the benefits of all that the region has to offer. Despite the growth opportunities on offer, there are significant challenges in managing change and excellence across this diverse and fast-growing region.
The SE Asia State of Play report aims to accurately gauge business confidence and in doing so, challenge business thinking on operational excellence, high performance, customer service and innovation. How can businesses operating across Asia do so consistently, while meeting varying regulatory and compliance requirements, cultures, religions and tax structures?
More than 180 business leaders from Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia participated in the report, providing in‑depth insights into a number of critical business areas.
The report’s key findings include:
- Strong business confidence
Leaders across the region are very optimistic about the economy and the growth prospects of their organisations, with more than half of surveyed leaders(61 per cent) reporting growth forecasts of more than 10 per cent over the next 12 months. A further 63 per cent of surveyed leaders predict the economy to grow in the next three years and only one quarter said that the economy will slow or decline.
- Indonesian business leaders most confident
Indonesia comes out on top as the country where business leaders are very optimistic about the country’s future economic outlook as well as their own business prospects with many predicting significant revenue growth over the next 12 months. Of the surveyed leaders, 46 per cent are very optimistic about their prospects compared to the regional average of 32 per cent.
- Singapore’s leaders feel the impact of changing regulations
Only 10 per cent feel very optimistic about future growth and only a third expect growth of more than 10 per cent in the next 12 months, compared to a regional average of 61 per cent.
- Recruitment and retention keeping leaders awake at night
Recruitment and retention is the number one challenge for leaders across the region. With wages steadily increasing and unemployment low, the quest to retain staff is difficult when head-hunting quality staff is very competitive.
- Improved productivity is on the agenda
Companies are looking to adopt new technologies as a way to improve productivity and address rising business costs with the end result being greater process efficiency and customer service. Close to 70 per cent of business leaders across the region have cited productivity as a key focus growth area.
Download the full report here: SEA State of Play- Managing Change in a Growing Region-2013-14


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Eat Offbeat is one of many catering businesses that had to re-invent itself when COVID-19 struck 18 months ago.
But its employees had a little experience with sudden, difficult change: They all came to the country as refugees. And they say reinventing their business model overnight came naturally.
The New York-based company, founded by Lebanese siblings Manal and Wissam Kahi, was inspired nearly six years ago by Manal Kahi’s dual realizations: that she couldn’t find hummus “like her grandmother’s” in New York, and that the perfect people to cook food from their home countries were the refugees coming to the U.S. from around the globe.
She partnered with the International Refugee Committee to find cooks and launch a unique business. Now, the group has also released its first cookbook, “Kitchens Without Borders.”
In Queens, New York, the group cooks in


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NVIDIA is About to Copy One of the PlayStation 4's Best Features, and It Could Help It Crush AMD
PC gamers who ownNVIDIA's (NASDAQ: NVDA) latest graphics cards will soon have access to a number of new features, one of which had previously been exclusive to Sony's (NYSE: SNE)PlayStation 4. The update should make NVIDIA's cards more attractive, and help it further increase its market share dominance over rival AMD (NASDAQ: AMD).
NVIDIA introduces GameStream Co-OpOwners of Sony's PlayStation 4 can take advantage of a feature called Share Play. It requires an active subscription to Sony's PlayStation Plus service, but allows PlayStation 4 owners to play games with friends online.
Of course, online multiplayer has existed for years, but Share Play is quite different. Rather than play against each other in Call of Dutymatches or cooperatively in World of Warcraft, Share Play literally mimics the experience of playing a game with a friend in the same room on the same television. If it's a game designed for just one player, the host player can remotely "hand" their controller over to their friend.
NVIDIA's forthcoming update to Geforce Experience -- its driver software suite -- includes GameStream Co-Op, a service that functions almost identically to the PlayStation 4's Share Play. "GameStream Co-Op...lets you stream your game over the Internet to a friend and play together cooperatively -- just as if your friend was sitting in the chair next to you," NVIDIA writes.
NVIDIA's growing ecosystem of products and featuresIn the past, graphics cards were largely sold based on two factors: price and performance. But over the last few years, NVIDIA has been expanding the services and features exclusive to owners of its hardware, essentially building a sort of ecosystem around its cards.
GameStream Co-Op is the latest example, but just one in a long running series of advances. NVIDIA's Shield hardware -- which has included a tablet, handheld game console, and Android TV set-top box -- supports remote game streaming, allowing owners of NVIDIA's graphics cards to stream their PC games over the Internet to a corresponding Shield device -- a Shield set-top box attached to a TV in the den, perhaps, or a Shield tablet in a hotel room.
NVIDIA's G-Sync technology improves graphical fidelity when one of NVIDIA's cards is paired with a compatible G-Sync monitor. NVIDIA has also rolled out features that make it easier for owners of its cards to record and share gameplay (called Shadowplay), including broadcasting live to Twitch. In addition to GameStream Co-Op, its latest update includes support for YouTube -- NVIDIA gamers will soon be able to upload their recorded clips directly to the video platform.
NVIDIA is dominating AMDNVIDIA's share of the graphics card market has surged in recent quarters. According to a recent report from John Peddie Research, NVIDIA's cards accounted for more than 81% of the graphics cards sold last quarter. That's up from 62% in the same quarter last year.
Given that the graphics card market is a duopoly, NVIDIA's gains have come at the expense of its sole rival, AMD. Demand for AMD's cards has tumbled, as its market share has fallen from 37.9% in the second quarter last year to just 18% last quarter.
AMD has mimicked many of NVIDIA's advances -- in place of G-Sync, it offers FreeSync; in place of Shadowplay, it offers Game DVR -- but these updates have come only months after NVIDIA's. Even then, AMD has not managed to fully keep pace -- it has no Shield equivalent.
Updates like GameStream Co-Op may seem relatively insignificant, but overall, these features help set NVIDIA's cards apart from AMD's. With its market share surging, PC gamers clearly care.
The article NVIDIA is About to Copy One of the PlayStation 4's Best Features, and It Could Help It Crush AMD originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sam Mattera has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Nvidia. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Copyright 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.


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Local food is taking flight at the Calgary airport.
On Thursday, The Burger Federation — the first of more than 50 new and renovated eat and shop locations — was unveiled in the airport’s domestic terminal.
“The Burger Federation combines global trends, international flavours (and) most importantly 100 per cent Alberta Angus beef is used on every burger,” said Neil Thompson of HMSHost, which partnered with the airport to bring three locally inspired brands to the terminals, including Calgary staple Last Best Brewing and Distillery.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to share our love of quality food, craft beer and spirits,” said Last Best co-owner Brett Ireland.
“Last Best created a name by sharing a vision of Alberta’s world-class agriculture and our goal is to bring that to the forefront of guest experiences.”
The beers will showcase the province’s agriculture with items like an imperial stout aged in Alberta whiskey barrels and saisons made with locally sourced heritage grains. They will also sell their classics like Tokyo Drift, Show Pony, and Last Best IPA.
The new restaurant options will also include the Flames Grill in tribute to the Calgary Flames. Television screens will play every Flames game in addition to other live sporting events and will serve game-day inspired cuisine.
Another Calgary company making a home inside the airport is Made Foods, a locally owned and locally sourced eatery with healthy made-to-order and ready-to-eat options including salads, sandwiches and snacks.
“The need for healthy, convenient food options while travelling has never been greater,” said Chris Dobson, president of Made Foods, who added the location will have a variety of options for dietary preferences like dairy or gluten intolerance.
Additional newcomers include a gourmet food, retail and wine bar called the Three Sisters Market and Wine Bar, a new convenience store called Rundle Market and an outdoor shop called No Boundaries.
The two-year project will see a complete revamp of the post-security options and will include renovations to coffee and juice bars and existing restaurants like Chili’s. The new options were chosen following interviews with over 1,000 guests and airport employees.
“These partnerships make no doubt in my mind that every guest who passes through here is going to have a terrific experience, so that if they’re a Calgarian, they are going to love the way we represent our city, if they are visiting Calgary for the first time or the 20th time they are going to say this is a great place to visit,” said Michael Hayward with the Calgary Airport Authority.
“And if they are connecting through here, we’re going to tell them this is a place you should stop next time. Don’t just pass through.”


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According to data provided by PitchBook, here is a list of the biggest startup bankruptcies of all time.
Vice Media has filed for bankruptcy, despite having raised over $1.6 billion from venture capitalists.
The big picture: Vice now joins an ignominious club of well-funded flameouts.
- What follows are companies (excluding ones from China) that raised at least $1 billion in venture capital, but then either filed for bankruptcy or shut down, according to data provided by PitchBook.
- Boston-based Intarcia raised $1.98 billion from venture capitalists, including Fidelity and NEA. At one point it was the most highly valued biotech startup ever.
- But the company could never get FDA approval for its flagship product, a matchstick-sized implantable device for Type II diabetes treatment.
- The company filed for bankruptcy protection in late 2020, and early last year threw in the towel after yet another FDA denial.
- The FTX story — its rise to serve over 1 million users, its $32 billion valuation and its stunning collapse — is fundamentally one about its charismatic founder, Sam Bankman-Fried.
- The company, which operated a cryptocurrency exchange and crypto hedge fund, filed for bankruptcy last November after raising $1.97 billion from big-name backers that ranged from Sequoia Capital to Tom Brady.
- Bankman-Fried was charged with 13 criminal counts of fraud, conspiracy, campaign finance law violations, money laundering and bribery of foreign officials. He’s pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to face trial in October.
Douglas Boneparth, a 38-year-old financial adviser from New York, stated that the Greatest Wealth Transfer in History is no longer an impending phenomenon; it is now a present reality.


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TAGUIG CITY – Google Philippines is supporting the growth of the country’s digital economy with a Google.org grant to DigiBayanihan, a nationwide digital literacy program that promotes digital inclusion among Filipinos.
This was announced on Thursday when Google Philippines opened its new home, four years after it launched its first office in the country in 2013. The support from Google.org is expected to extend DigiBayanihan’s program to one million Filipinos in Visayas and Mindanao.
Google.org is the philanthropic arm of Google that supports and champions people and projects that are combatting some of the biggest human challenges of the 21st century.
“This step is part of our continuing effort to create a stronger, more inclusive digital economy in the Philippines. While Internet penetration has improved over the last five years, 2 out of 5 Filipinos are still missing out on the huge opportunities that come with being online. We want to empower them with digital know-how so that they can make the most of the Internet,” said Ken Lingan, Google Philippines country manager.
DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez, who was guest of honor at the launch, said, “With the population getting more connected and engaged every day, it is necessary for individuals, businesses, and communities to have the right skills to thrive in today’s modern economy. That’s why we welcome Google’s commitment to promote digital inclusion and empower every Filipino online, and in effect, drive the country’s economy forward.”
Google also highlighted the importance of developers in the digital economy of the country with the launch of the Launchpad Accelerator program in the Philippines. The program provides equity-free support to help start-ups scale into thriving companies.
Citing the recent Google-commissioned report by Temasek, Google said that the Philippines’ online market value is set to reach US$19 billion by 2025, making e-commerce a major economic driver in the next 10 years. “Our local developers and startups are instrumental in creating impactful businesses that are tackling tough local and global issues. We see the importance of their role in what will be a booming e-commerce in our country in the very near future because what they do has direct impact in people’s lives,” Ken said.
Innovative real-estate start-up Zipmatch, which uses 360° technology to differentiate its online portal, is the first Filipino participant in Google’s Launchpad Accelerator. Secretary Lopez recognized the program as a potential boost in the e-commerce industry, and encouraged micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to take advantage of the digital space and digital training provided by Google and DTI agencies nationwide.
“SMEs still account for more than 90% of our enterprises, and Filipinos rely heavily on them for goods and services. I think it is just right for the SMEs to embrace digital integration now and make use of programs like what we provide working with tech companies like Google so they can take advantage of opportunities that go with going digital,” Sec Lopez added.
In main photo are Dr. Alexander Cruz Mercado, President of Technical Vocational Schools and Associations of the Philippines, Google Philippines country manager Ken Lingan, and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez.


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The annual Garden Market was held on Sunday, 2 November with large crowds in attendance. Stall holders seemed delighted with the market.
Many thanks to Sue Albert for taking photos of the winners of this year’s Garden Market raffle, Mr and Mrs W Latimer from Barkers Creek. More photos! [click on any of them for a larger version.]


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The City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs on Wednesday announced the details of the upcoming holiday farmers markets. The markets include a Thanksgiving Market in West Ashley and a series of Holiday Markets in Marion Square.
The schedule is as follows:
- Final Regular Season Charleston Farmers Market
- Saturday, November 20th, 2021 8 am to 1 pm
- The final regular season Charleston Farmers Market will be held on Saturday, November 20th from 8 am to 1 p.m. in Marion Square. The CFM will be closed on Saturday, November 27th for Thanksgiving weekend, and open back up for the Holiday Market in Marion Square (details below)
- West Ashley Thanksgiving Market
- Sunday, November 21, 2021, 12 pm to 4 pm
- Prepare for the upcoming holiday by shopping locally at the West Ashley Thanksgiving Market at Ackerman Park this Sunday, November 21st from 12 to 4 pm
- Enjoy live music by Caja de Cuerdas from 2 pm to 4 pm
- Charleston Holiday Market
- The Annual Holiday Market in Marion Square will be held on Saturdays and Sundays, 9 am to 2 pm for the first three weekends in December (December 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th and 19th)
- Come and enjoy a bounty of fresh local produce and homegrown creativity with additional holiday décor and gifts being sold by a variety of local producers.
- The 2021 Holiday Magic Parking Voucher can be used for two hours of free parking in participating parking garages
- Find the voucher here: http://charlestonarts.org/holiday-magic/.
For more information, call the Office of Cultural Affairs at 843-724-7305.
Charleston Weekend Events
There’s ALWAYS something to do in Charleston – especially on the weekend. If you need help finding plans, just consult...


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Ninja told viewers about his playable, virtual twin during a Wednesday morning stream.
“It happened. It’s official,” he said. “We finally got a Ninja skin in the game. In Fortnite. We did it.”
You can purchase the skin when it comes to Fortnite on January 16 at 7 p.m. Eastern time, but if you want to see it in action, Ninja is using it now before it releases to the public.
Ninja said the skin "looks just like me.” The character sports his iconic, light blue hair and a sleek jacket with the Ninja logo printed on the sleeve. There are four variations of the skin, including one wielding two katanas.
The skin is the first of the “icon series,” which will bring real-world personalities to Fortnite. Epic teases that streamers Loserfruit and TheGrefg are among many that will be part of the series in the future.
Epic’s plans are grand, and they don’t stop at video games: The publisher says it will collaborate with not just gaming luminaries, but stars and personalities of all sorts, citing its previous collaborations with music artists Marshmello and Major Lazer. Epic has also teamed up with Disney in the past, hosting Avengers and Star Wars themed events.
Epic Games isn’t the only publisher teaming up with big names and superstars: Late last year, League of Legends announced its own skins designed by luxury brand Louis Vuitton.
“This is just the beginning of gaming, music, film, and fashion colliding in Fortnite,” tweeted Epic Games, the studio behind Fortnite.


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• Tesla Inc. has recently slashed the prices of its vehicles in the United States, and other key markets in Europe.
• This price cut represents the third time the firm has done this and ranges from 1% to 17% depending on the specification of the car.
• Tesla is looking to attract new buyers at a time when more competing electric vehicle makers are introducing cheaper cars into the market.
Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) has reduced the prices of its cars in the United States and Europe as part of an effort to attract new customers. This is the third time the firm has cut its prices, and the reductions range from 1% to 17%, depending on the car specifications.
The price reductions are applied to the Model 3 and Y vehicles in Germany, which have become some of the most sought-after cars in the country. This move by Tesla is intended to help them compete against other electric vehicle makers who have recently introduced cheaper cars.
In the United States, the price cuts extend to the Model S, Model X, and Model 3 cars. In Europe, the price cuts affect the United Kingdom, Austria, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Switzerland. The reductions mean that Tesla cars are now more affordable in these countries, making them more attractive to potential customers.
Tesla is known for their cutting-edge technology, premium design, and luxury features that come with their cars. However, their prices have been a major deterrent for potential customers who are looking for more affordable options. This latest price slash is an attempt to make their cars more accessible to a wider range of customers.
The firm is also trying to reduce the cost of ownership for their customers by introducing cheaper battery options for their cars. This could help customers save money on their monthly energy bills. Additionally, Tesla has been working on expanding its network of charging stations and making them easier to access. This could help customers who live in areas with limited charging options.
Tesla’s latest price cuts are part of an effort to remain competitive in a market that is becoming increasingly crowded with electric vehicle makers. The firm is hoping that their reduced prices will help them attract more customers and remain a leader in the electric vehicle space.


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While Volkswagen AG couldn’t buy Alfa Romeo from Fiat SpA, it has stolen Giovanni Perosino, a top Fiat executive, to help head the marketing strategy of its growing number of brands, which now includes Porsche. Volkswagen is aiming to take Toyota’s title as the world’s No. 1automaker.
Perosino, 46, will take on the new role of group marketing communications head, the same role he had at Fiat where he also headed Chrysler Group marketing communication advisor. Christian Klingler, VW group’s board member for sales, said Perosino will help drive forward the “systematic coordination” of marketing communications.
Perosino will rejoin forced with Luca De Meo, his former mentor at Fiat. Both previously worked in Turin while De Meo was CEO of Fiat brand, Alfa Romeo and Lancia.
– By: Omar Rana
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)


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Same-day collection and delivery services startup Gophr has expanded its business through new partnerships with market-leading businesses, including Net-a-Porter, HelloFresh, Hostmaker and Krispy Kreme.
At the same time, Gophr announced that it has completed its 1,000,000th delivery and has doubled growth year-on-year for the past three years.
Ezgi Ozer, arrival operations executive from Hostmaker, said, “Gophr has transformed our logistics operations, by giving us a highly efficient and dedicated fleet of which we have total oversight.”
Gophr CEO and founder Seb Robert commented, “The Gophr platform allows us to offer our clients the best service, flexibility and transparency when it comes to making deliveries to their clients. It’s no surprise that some of the world’s most innovative businesses want to tap into that and work with us. From your brand-new designer purchase from Net-a-Porter to a sweet treat from Krispy Kreme we are keeping the modern delivery economy moving.”


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Samsung QD-OLED TV Finally, the name, price and possible release date. In fact, it looks like the new QD-OLED TV will hit shelves sooner than we first thought and may be a bit cheaper than initial speculation – adding to the anticipation already surrounding the exciting new panel’s suspension.
Oddly enough, Samsung isn’t making a lot of noise about the fact that the S95B will be one of the first QD-OLED screens to be introduced. Instead, the brand reveals the board as a file OLED TV When specifications clearly require QD-OLED technology.
With so many OLED TVs to choose from in today’s market, it seems strange for Samsung not to bring this to the market the television for what it is. Anyway, it looks like Samsung’s new QD-OLED TV will hit shelves for $2,200 (55-inch) / $3000 (65-inch) — a cut from the previous $2,400 / $3,500 price tag.
As always, we’ll update this page with the latest Samsung S95B release dates, news, pricing and specifications so you’ll be in the driving seat when it comes to our exciting new QD-OLED TV.
What is QD OLED?
For TV fans, it looks like 2022 will be one of the most exciting years in decades. It will feature a suite of never-before-seen technologies aimed at dramatically improving the visual experience – Samsung seems to be at the forefront of the action.
The TV technology that seems poised to bridge the gap between Quantum Dot and OLED is called “QD-OLED”, which is what makes Samsung’s new S95B TV so attractive. This groundbreaking new technology takes all the major advantages of OLED technology and enhances them with a thin layer of Quantum Dot – for greater color depth, vibrancy and accuracy. In addition, QD-OLED will also increase the brightness of OLED technology – a flaw that has often been criticized in the past.
Samsung S95B QD-OLED TV: Release date (what we know so far)
At the time of writing, information about the S95B release date is still relatively vague. The company published the details of the Samsung S95B phone on its phone editorial siteNoting that the TVAvailable in sizes 55 and 65 starting in April.There is no specific release date yet.
However, American consumers can now do just that Pre-order Samsung S95B With an expected release date of April 21 – so says the Samsung website.
Samsung S95B QD-OLED TV: Specifications
If the design of this TV doesn’t bother you, the specs do. The Samsung S95B QD-OLED is powered by the brand’s Neo Quantum Dot 4K processor – the same found in Neo QLED 4K and 8K TVs. As a result, users can expect a sophisticated 4K upscaling that enhances visual resolution when boosted from 1080p and 1440p – especially good for watching older TV shows and movies that were viewed at lower resolutions. There is no mention of the S95B’s dynamic tone mapping or in-depth learning capabilities yet – two features that are highly marketed by LG’s division due to C2 . series†
Regardless of the processing power, the big draw for this TV will be the QD-OLED technology at its core. New display technology will bridge the gap between Quantum dot and OLED technologies, resulting in a stunning visual experience that combines the best features of both technologies.
Of course, it looks like the S95B is ready to integrate a host of high-end models HDR Features including: HDR10 + (Samsung HDR standard). As one of Samsung’s first OLED displays, users can expect a significant increase in HDR performance compared to some of the brand’s other TV options. As always, we won’t see Dolby Vision integrated into this suite, which leaves out some potential buyers.
Gamers will be happy to hear that the S95B will fully support the next generation console, with four HDMI 2.1 The slots have a full 48 Gbps capabilities. In addition, the S95B will also offer Motion Xcelerator Turbo plus technology – a response time improvement technology that helps reduce annoying screen effects such as distortion and blur when viewing fast-moving images. At the moment, there is no talk of VRR technology – a feature needed to help both PS5 and Xbox Series X. Performance to the highest standards.
Samsung S95B QD-OLED TV: Price
Samsung has already mentioned the price of the S95B, and to our surprise it’s a lot cheaper than we initially thought.
The 55-inch S95B will retail in the US for $2,200 (£1,699) – $200 off the previously expected $2,400 price tag. The 65-inch S95B appears to be up and running for $3,000 (£2,299) – a $500 drop in price from previous price expectations. While US consumers will have the option to purchase the S95B from April, there is no indication that it will be available in the UK, EU and AU markets.
Samsung S95B vs LG C2: What Should You Buy?
One of the big questions we’ve been asked lately is: Should I buy an S95B or an LG C2? And the answer is relatively simple, especially since the two screens in question are slightly different.
One panel features QD-OLED technology, while the other uses OLED technology. Additionally, one appears to be geared more towards gaming, while the other is more suited for recreational consumption.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you give the highest priority to. If you are the type of person who plays games more than consuming general content, then you will probably want to choose the LG C2 – one of the best gaming TVs in 2022.
Instead, the Samsung S95B is sure to offer a much better visual experience than the LG C2, introducing an all-new display technology that seems to satisfy all the OLED flaws it has fallen victim to.
“Thinker. Coffeeaholic. Award-winning gamer. Web trailblazer. Pop culture scholar. Beer guru. Food specialist.”
Juice: Europa’s mission to Jupiter’s moons
TestGPT will (hopefully) find errors in your code
Oppo brings the Reno8 T with its 100MP camera to Belgium


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Location still the recipe for success
‘The Yeongdeungpo area close to Yeouido, Guro and Mapo needed a decent deluxe hotel.’ - Simon Bell, general manager of Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Times Square
Modern lifestyles have changed dramatically in just the past few years, especially for those living in the bustling city of Seoul.
One day, a trend is in. The next thing you know, it’s out like flipped-up shirt collars.
Simon Bell - general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Times Square, a business hotel opening next Monday in Yeongdeungpo, western Seoul - understands that fact very well.
And that’s why he’s psyched about the hotel’s location in the mega-mall Times Square complex, which opened yesterday.
| A view of the Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Times Square in Yeongdeungpo, western Seoul. Provided by the hotel|
This prime location, Bell said, will help the hotel capitalize on Seoul’s vibrant “hybrid” culture.
“Seoul is a tourist destination not only for experiencing traditional cultures and learning history but also for shopping and leisure,” Bell said in a recent interview. “The hotel being located in an area that is at the center of shopping, entertainment and business is a huge benefit. It will help us bring in more local and foreign customers.”
Times Square - owned by Kyungbang Company - is expected to quickly become a new commercial landmark in the western part of the capital.
The major tenants of the complex include Shinsegae Department Store, Kyobo Book Centre, CGV cinema, the large discount store E-Mart and a luxury fitness center. It also features premier fashion brands such as Zara and Mango.
“The Yeongdeungpo area close to Yeouido, Guro and Mapo needed a decent deluxe hotel,” the general manager said.
The hotel is the fourth Marriott-branded lodging property in Seoul, following the JW Marriott Seoul, the Marriott Executive Apartments and the Renaissance Seoul Hotel.
While the JW Marriott in Banpo-dong, southern Seoul - which is located near the Seoul Express Bus Terminal Station - is a full-service deluxe hotel, the Courtyard is a moderately priced brand offering basic services.
The new Courtyard in Times Square has 283 guest rooms, including 10 suites that measure 50 square meters (538 square feet) and 59 executive rooms coming in at 30 square meters.
There is an executive lounge (typically not found in moderately priced hotels) on the 15th floor, a 24-hour fitness studio on the fourth floor and five meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 80 people each.
To celebrate its opening, the Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Times Square is offering a promotional rate of 99,000 won ($81.74) for a deluxe room and 133,000 won for an executive deluxe room, through Oct. 31.
For information or reservations, call (02) 2638-3000.
By Lee Eun-joo [email@example.com]


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By Mark Cecil and Jeremy Harrell
Not in question is that prices have gotten much higher. From 2000 to 2007, average purchase-price-to-EBITDA multiples for retail LBOs in the United States nearly doubled, rising from 6.3x to almost 11.5x, according to Standard & Poor’s Leveraged Commentary and Data.
Lindsey Alley, a managing director in the consumer and retail group of investment bank Houlihan Lokey Howard & Zukin, said that the multiples paid for retailers in the last few years have simply gotten “too high.” The need to service the loans used to pay those lofty prices could siphon off cash that retailers need to put to work to freshen up brands for fickle consumers, she said. “I’ve yet to see a big retail transaction that can support those kinds of multiples, unless there’s underlying savings I’m not aware of,” Alley said of the 12x to 14x multiples she’s seen being paid to acquire specialty retailers.
Indeed, debt multiples for U.S. retail deals followed right along with the skyrocketing prices. The amount of senior debt piled on to LBO’ed retail companies rose from an average of 3.0x EBITDA in 2000 to 4.9x EBITDA in 2007, while overall debt loads increased from 4.2x EBITDA to 6.2x EBITDA over the same period, according to S&P Leveraged Commentary and Data.
Granted, the loans taken out to finance these deals came with historically low interest rates, and with favorable covenants (if there were any). Moreover, retail chains often have valuable real estate holdings to support inexpensive, asset-backed loans. John M. Baumer, a partner at consumer-focused LBO shop
Maybe not. But over the long haul friendly loan terms can’t save retailers from defaulting on their payments. Rising gas prices and a housing slump that has dried up the market for home-equity loans—an important source of consumer cash—could well spell trouble for cash flow in coming months.
Needing to move mountains of money, many generalist firms joined sector specialists over the last few years in a retail-company shopping spree. It marked a big change for many firms because retailers, with their unsteady cash flows, had not previously been considered good buyout candidates.
In fact, U.S.-based buyout firms in 2000 completed just 15 retail deals, and those with disclosed valuations totaled $318 million, according to Thomson Financial, publisher of Buyouts. By 2005, the number of deals had more than doubled to 39 deals, while the disclosed deal value spiked to more than $2 billion. Through Sept. 18, the industry had already far surpassed its full-year 2006 disclosed value total—$16 billion vs. $6 billion—and was on pace to complete rougly as many deals, although the pace will certainly slow in the last quarter of 2007.
Notable deals in the last two years include the $7.6 billion purchase in 2005 of Toys ‘R’ Us by
The same can’t be said for Linens Holding Co., the parent of retailer Linens ‘N Things.
Anthony Chukumba, a senior research analyst at FTN Midwest Securities Corp. and an expert on the retail sector, said that while Linens ‘N Things comes with its own set of baggage—such as intense competition from lower margin competitors like Target Corp.—the company’s difficulties showcase the risk of rising leverage multiples. If consumer spending heads south, or a brand suffers in the marketplace, LBO firms have little flexibility to contend with the difficulty.
To be sure, covenant-lite loans do give retailers greater margin for error than might otherwise be the case, said Chris Farrell, managing director and head of specialty retail banking for UBS AG. But the lack of covenants means that LBO firms run the risk of missing out on the warning signs that come with meeting loan benchmarks.
“The fear is that covenant-lite deals, designed to provide breathing room and flexibility, may in fact mask serious problems that when finally uncovered are too late to rectify,” said Farrell. “We could see a fair number of restructurings.”
Return Of The Strategics
Lofty prices probably won’t be much of an issue in the coming months. Turbulence in the credit market suggests that large-scale retail deals are off the table until at least 2008. “I think it’s a relatively slow period over the next few months,” Leonard Green’s Baumer said of retail deal-making. “There are real questions about whether consumer spending is tapped out.”
One benefit of a slowdown would be the opportunity to spend more time preparing retailers for any downturn. Buyout shops will also have the opportunity to take advantage of the M&A market as sellers, although they are naturally unlikely to command the same multiples they paid just months earlier.
Macy’s lost nearly a quarter of its market cap between July 4th and Labor Day once it became clear that a $17 billion buyout was not viable. Grocery store chain Kroger lost 5 percent during the same period, while electronics retailer Best Buy fell 6 percent. Buyers are paying a turn or less for retailers in today’s market, while still-active sponsors are expected to put more equity into deals or take minority stakes, like the recent investment
Deals will get done, said Jamie O’Hara, managing director of
“The pendulum has swung back to strategics, and we can expect them to take advantage of the current environment,” since they can leverage their balance sheets and offer stock and cash to effect mergers, UBS’s Farrell said,
Another deal-environment-shifting change is also under way in the retail sector, one that would be exacerbated if the economy indeed heads south, according to Farrell. The double-digit profit growth rates that the big-box retailers produced in the last decade have cooled off into the single-digits. If consumer spending slows, the pressure will build for these retailers to show results, and that will likely push them toward consolidation to wring greater profits from operations, Farrell said.
Whether sponsors are immediately willing to participate in any consolidation, either as buyers or sellers, remains to be seen. Farrell notes that in some cases, sponsors behave like “quasi-strategics” given the retailers they already own. A good bet is that they’ll find a way to take part by writing larger equity checks.


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Updated October 22, 2020 - 9:30 pm
Circa will unveil what it claims to be the world’s largest sportsbook on Wednesday.
The stadium-style venue is described as a “one of a kind betting experience” by Circa sportsbook director Matt Metcalf, with single-seat, cushioned chairs in front of a 78-million-pixel, high-definition screen; a dedicated broadcast studio with real-time, in-depth analyses; and enough room for up to 1,000 bettors.
Industry watchers say the glamorous new offering will put pressure on other properties to invest in their sportsbooks, even as the lion’s share of many sportsbooks’ revenue comes from online bets.
“Things just gain traction in Las Vegas and make their way across the entire Strip,” gaming consultant Sara Slane said.
Representatives for Caesars Entertainment Inc., MGM Resorts International, Station Casinos, Wynn Resorts Ltd., Las Vegas Sands Corp. and Boyd Gaming Corp. declined to comment or did not respond to a request for comment on what sort of response, if any, their sportsbooks have to Circa’s opening, but public company documents show casino operators have been increasingly focused on their sports betting offerings.
Last month, Caesars Entertainment announced it had agreed to buy sports betting operator William Hill for $3.7 billion. MGM rebranded all of its sportsbooks to fit under the BetMGM brand this year. Wynn Las Vegas renovated its race and sports book in 2017, and its sister property, Encore, debuted its own sportsbook that same year. Station Casinos renovated Palace Station’s sportsbook as part of a $192 million modernization project in 2018, adding a bar, raised VIP lounge and special VIP booths. Between August 2018 and the end of 2019, Boyd Gaming Corp. opened seven sportsbooks in four states.
And now, Metcalf says Derek Steven’s Circa has created a “mecca” for sports bettors, “where they will be able to experience the electricity that can only be found in a Las Vegas sportsbook.”
The investments come as sports betting expands across the U.S. and handle sizes swell. In 2019, the total handle of sportsbooks in Clark County was $299.2 million, more than six times the amount made five years earlier, according to the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
Westgate Resorts sportsbook Vice President Jay Kornegay said there is no doubt that Circa’s opening will affect other retail books in the Las Vegas market.
“Vegas has been known for keeping up with the Joneses over the years,” he said. “I think that’s going to continue.”
Kornegay said Westgate just updated its screens during the shutdown, and more upgrades — which he declined to disclose — are in the pipeline.
“If you look at the history of Las Vegas, we’re always new and improved, and everyone’s going to continue that, even post-pandemic,” he said. “I wouldn’t say that happens because of what we see (downtown); I think it’s just the way Las Vegas is.”
Bigger is ‘often better’
While spokespeople for Circa declined to share the sportsbook’s square footage, Stevens told the Review-Journal in June that “there’s no question” that the property is the largest when measured by cubic feet, which accounts for its height.
Westgate has long held the world’s largest sportsbook title, with a 30,000-square-foot venue that can hold 2,019 guests. Kornegay said he sees no problem with a “friendly rivalry” with downtown’s newest attraction.
“I’ve been here for 30 years, and whenever we have a new property or an exciting new venue, everybody in Vegas benefits,” he said. “We think we can co-exist (with Circa). We have a good relationship with the team down there, and we welcome them. … As far as the sports world goes, it’s still an underserved market.”
Kornegay doesn’t think every operator will shift sportsbook operations because of Circa’s opening, but he does expect Las Vegas sportsbooks to continue to grow and expand.
Chris Grove of gaming consulting firm Eilers & Krejcik said people often come to Las Vegas expecting a larger-than-life experience, and sports bettors are no exception.
“If bigger isn’t always better, it’s often better,” he said.
While sports betting is a notoriously low-margin business — its handle accounted for just 2.7 percent of Nevada’s total gaming revenue in 2019 — Slane said high-end venues can attract spending in other areas, such as food and beverage. Extravagant sportsbooks don’t make sense in every gaming market, but it’s a solid strategy in Las Vegas, where two-thirds of Strip casinos’ revenue comes from nongaming amenities, according to data from UNLV.
Metcalf said in an email that Circa’s construction “signals to the rest of the world that the demand for the Las Vegas-style sportsbook experience will always be there.”
In-person vs. mobile bets
Retail sportsbooks are constantly getting bigger and better, but the majority of many sportsbooks’ revenue comes from online bets. That’s especially true now, with the pandemic pushing many to stay at home.
Kornegay said occupancy limitations have caused the brick-and-mortar sportsbook’s business to drop roughly 30 percent. Even so, August sportsbook numbers were “smashing” old ones, and mobile numbers continued to set records in September.
That has allowed overall numbers to flourish: Kornegay said the September ticket count from retail and mobile was up 27 percent year over year, while the total handle was up 17 percent.
He gave credit to this year’s sports schedule, which saw the NBA playoffs and NHL Stanley Cup playoffs overlap for the first time in August, and limited entertainment options.
“It’s not like people are traveling often. You can’t go to entertainment venues and see a band or concert,” Kornegay said. “Sports betting in Nevada, you can do from your couch, and a lot of people are comfortable with it (in a pandemic).”
Before the virus outbreak, Kornegay estimated about 60 percent of the sportsbook’s revenue came from mobile. Now, it’s closer to 68 percent. He said that growth could continue, even as restrictions on other entertainment options are lifted.
“We introduced sports betting to so many new guests (during the pandemic),” he said. “People that have never done it before, prior to (the outbreak), are having a lot of fun with it.”
Many of those users are expected to stick with mobile betting. A 2019 Associated Press report found casino industry leaders expect up to 90 percent of all sports bets to take place on a computer or smartphone within the next 10 years.
Nevertheless, Grove said there is still tremendous value in retail sportsbooks.
“I think the boom of online sports betting is nothing but a positive for retail sportsbooks,” he said. “It’s worth remembering that online poker and live poker in the U.S. peaked at roughly the same time.”
Metcalf believes there’s a buzz at retail venues that mobile betting can’t replicate.
“There is a certain energy that permeates a big-time sportsbook,” he said. “It’s the combination of large sums of money being bet, professional and recreational bettors coming together, and the belief that this could be the day that you make the score of a lifetime.”
The pressure to create a unique in-person betting experience holds especially true in Nevada, where state laws require bettors to register in person at sportsbooks before they can place a mobile bet, according to Slane. Big, flashy sportsbooks can help ensure those bettors keep coming back.
“(Retail books are) not going away. They’re certainly additive, in the right location,” Slane said. “They can be extremely lucrative.”
And its users are loyal — even during a pandemic. Despite capacity limitations and new pandemic-driven protocols, Kornegay said Westgate has been surprised with the sizable crowds that have shown up since reopening. He, too, said nothing can compare to the unique experience of a Las Vegas retail sportsbook.
“When you have eight or 15 games going on at the same time, there’s just no experience like that,” he said. “You can’t do that at home.”
Circa’s hotel tower is set to open this year.
The Review-Journal is owned by the family of Las Vegas Sands Corp. Chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson. Las Vegas Sands operates The Venetian and Palazzo.
Top Nevada race books and sportsbooks by square footage
Every year, Nevada casinos report race book and sportsbook square footage to the Nevada Gaming Control board. The counts listed here may differ from how properties count their square footage; the Westgate, for example, considers its sportsbook to be 30,000 square feet, more than twice what’s listed by the control board, by including expanded viewing areas from its food court, food court seating and bar seating areas.
South Point: 21,411
Red Rock Resort: 14,066
The Venetian: 12,200
Mandalay Bay: 11,693
Sam’s Town: 10,500
Sunset Station: 10,247
Texas Station: 9,709
All numbers are from fiscal year 2019. Source: Nevada Gaming Control Board.


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Finance Wales has invested in a London-based tech company which has established a new operation in Cardiff creating four jobs.
The Welsh Government wholly-owned investment bank subsidiary has backed cloud.IQ as of part of a £4m equity investment round.
Cloud. IQ's artificial intelligence platform uses machine learning to enable e-commerce business to increase revenues and reduced costs.
Powered by data an analytics, the platform responds to data sets in real time to trigger personalised customers experiences and as a result drives customer conversion results at scale.
Its customers include Samsung, EE and TUI.
The latest funding round was led by Nauta Capital, who were advised by Armada Ventures.
Finance Wales, which declined to confirm how much it invested in the round, also participated alongside existing investor Juno Capital.
At this stage the company has created four jobs at its new operation in Cardiff.
However, Finance Wales said the plan was for the company to create more jobs in the future, but didn't confirm how more are expected to be created.
Cloud.IQ has set up a new base at the Creative Quarter in the Morgan Arcade in the centre of Cardiff.
While Finance Wales would not disclose the level of its investment, it is understood to be at least a significant six-figure sum.
The Welsh Government said the decision of Finance Wales to invest in a company with its head office in London was one that didn't require any sign off from Business Minister Ken Skates.
Finance Wales said it has always been its strategy since being formed in 2001 to invest in companies outside of Wales, if it resulted in an entire or a substantial part of a business moving to Wales.
In a statement Finance Wales said:"cloud.IQ is an exciting company with high-growth potential.
"The business has established a new base in Cardiff’s Creative Quarter creating four highly skilled jobs. Further job creation is expected as the company expands.
"We can disclose the total round size of £4m. Finance Wales was a co-investor in the round which was led by Nauta Capital, alongside existing investors Juno Capital.
"Investing in companies relocating, or basing a substantial part of their business in Wales has been within the scope of our investment funds since Finance Wales started operations in 2001.
"Attracting ambitious companies to Wales is and will continue to be a priority for Finance Wales."
Headquartered in London, with offices also in Sydney, cloud.IQ was co-founded by James Critchley and Paul Phillips in 2012.
Mr Critchley said: "Having studied at Swansea University, Wales is very important to me. I’m excited and proud we’re able to expand our team and operations here."


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The Atlanta, Ga.-based parcel giant posted a net income of $1.27 billion for the second quarter of 2016 on revenues of $14.63 billion, year-over-year increases of 3.2 percent and 3.8 percent, respectively.
The U.S. International Trade Commission has recommended to the White House that certain changes to the country’s Harmonized Tariff Schedule be made to conform with the World Customs Organization’s amendments to the global harmonized system.
The U.S. International Trade Commission said the Earned Import Allowance Program continues to fall short at boosting the Dominican Republic’s apparel exports to the United States.
Registration takes less than 1 minute.
The parcel carrier has partnered with automobile manufacturer Smart to conduct a market test in Stuttgart, Germany this fall on a service that will deliver packages directly to the trunk of a customer’s Smart car.
The United States has asked the World Trade Organization to press for China's elimination of export duties on nine different raw materials used in the manufacture of wide range of high-tech and industrial products.
The world’s largest convenience store chain teamed up with independent drone delivery service Flirtey and the Nevada Institute for Autonomous Systems to conduct the first fully autonomous aircraft delivery to a U.S. customer.


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WASHINGTON, July 1 (UPI) -- Search engine giant Google said Friday it would hire a dozen Washington area lobbying firms as the Federal Trade Commission prepares its antitrust inquiry.
"We have a strong story to tell about our business and we've sought out the best talent we can find to help tell it," a Google spokesperson told The Hill in an e-mail.
Google has been scrutinized by Congress since last year because of privacy concerns, prompted in part by a WiFi spying incident in which Google collected personal information through unencrypted wireless networks. It is also mentioned during ongoing legislative debate about online privacy and behavioral advertising.
Most of the firms haven't registered on behalf of Google, The Hill reported, but expect to do so soon.
In the 1990s, Microsoft, one of Google's top competitors, was the target of an FTC antitrust investigation into the company's decision to bundle Internet Explorer with Windows. An eventual settlement barred Microsoft from predatory behavior and helped ensure competition in several emerging markets.
Reports surfaced last week the FTC subpoenaed documents for an investigation into whether Google abused its dominance of the search market, The Hill said. It is the first broad antitrust investigation of the firm.


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The Foreign Ministry’s feedback survey on business diplomacy indicates that Estonian companies appreciate the support offered by the ministry, and use it actively when entering new markets and boosting exports.
According to Andres Rundu, the Undersecretary for Economic and Development Affairs, entrepreneurs have recognised the rapid development of business diplomacy. “Businesses have noticed our strategic steps to reinforce the business diplomacy support we are offering. For example, we have received positive feedback about our ambassadors advocating more for our companies and the Foreign Ministry showing flexibility in reacting to the interests of companies on foreign markets,” Rundu said.
The feedback showed that companies would mainly appreciate the Foreign Ministry’s support in creating business contacts abroad and passing on information. The survey also highlighted that this support would be most useful in Russia, United Arab Emirates, China, Japan, South Korea, Germany, the United Kingdom, and African and Scandinavian countries.
“We have active business diplomats in representations across the world. For example, in Abu Dhabi, we have an ambassador who is working closely with Estonian companies, and a business and investment officer will join the embassy soon. From late August, Estonia has had a chargé d’affaires in Seoul, who will set up the embassy and boost the business diplomacy dimension. We also have the newly-appointed Ambassador at Large for African Economic Affairs, Margus Rava,” Rundu said, outlining recent steps in external economy policy.
In total, 66 Estonian companies from various sectors took the 2020 business diplomacy survey. 54 companies responded that they were very satisfied or satisfied with the support offered by the Foreign Ministry. More than a half of the respondents said they had used the help of a foreign mission or honorary consul of Estonia when doing business abroad.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia


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Archive for jeff.graham
Lady Gaga alleges that when she was 19 years old, she had a terrifying sexual encounter with a man who was 20 years her senior.
Earlier today she posted this pic on instagram with #2015. She’s up to something!
Rihanna taste-tested fashion photographer Steven Klein at Monday night’s British Fashion Awards.
Turns out, the guys in One Direction face the same struggles as regular, non-rock star guys their age.
At a recent Hello Kitty Con, the atmosphere surrounding Hello Kitty’s 40th birthday festivities was one of pure joy.


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Record number of original TV shows created in 2019
A whopping 532 original scripted television series were created last year, according to the latest data from FX Networks Research, up 7% from the year before.
Why it matters: In recent years, experts wondered if the TV market would eventually reach "Peak TV," or a point of total saturation. The new data suggests that hasn't happened yet.
Be smart: The rise of streaming over the past decade can be credited for bloating the TV ecosystem, but it's also complicated it.
- FX researchers used to show the number of original scripted series that were released by genre, but because streamers have become so intertwined with the traditional television ecosystem, that calculus no longer makes sense.
- For example, Disney announced last year that Hulu will become the official streaming home for FX content. The partnership will offer current and new FX series to Hulu subscribers at the same time when they air on traditional TV.


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A group of Republican senators is asking Amazon.com Inc. to explain why it recently removed a book about transgender issues that had been on sale on the platform for about three years.
In a letter to Amazon Chief Executive Jeff Bezos dated Wednesday, Sens. Marco Rubio of Florida, Mike Lee of Utah, Mike Braun of Indiana and Josh Hawley of Missouri said a book by conservative scholar Ryan T. Anderson, “When Harry Became Sally: Responding to the Transgender Moment,” was no longer available on Amazon nor on its Kindle and Audible platforms.
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BlackRock trims exposure to CH Robinson and Expeditors
Here we go
Shippers should consider options such as air-sea cargo and coastal shipping to send goods to Australia and New Zealand.
According to CH Robinson, it’s vital to explore a variety of transport modes to keep supply chains moving.
Andrew Coldrey, CH Robinson’s vice president for Oceania, said: “The airfreight market is fluid and changing daily, therefore it may be beneficial for international goods to be transported using both air and ocean shipping.”
Indeed, forwarders are using Asian hubs such as Shanghai and Hong Kong to tranship airfreight to containerships bound for Australasia, avoiding the dearth of available air cargo capacity and taking advantage of rock-bottom intra-Asia ocean rates, with the most common routes from Europe and the US.
Mr Coldrey told The Loadstar: “We recently transported 225,000 face masks for a major retailer from Shanghai to Australia, and this meant the face masks were delivered a week ahead of schedule.
“Costs vary wildly with this option, depending on route, size and weight. It has been mostly used for commodities, not just food and beverages, but also machinery and manufacturing tools.”
A new development in Australia has been an uptick in coastal shipping, with CH Robinson reporting a 20% increase in volumes.
“A large portion of food and beverage suppliers have increased their use of the domestic shipping service, to cope with the increase in consumer demand, and negate the capacity and state-based restrictions of road and rail,” Mr Coldrey said, claiming coastal shipping can provide a 60% saving over road and rail.
“We’ve seen an increase in volume movements of liquor, particularly French wine and scotch whisky,” he added.
As for the remaining airfreight options, CH Robinson has engaged a number of heavylift and direct charter flights.
But the 3PL warned Australian shippers to consider their logistics options should the country enter a stricter, “Level 4” lockdown, like New Zealand.
“The port of Tauranga announced it was prioritising the unpacking of essential goods,” said Mr Coldrey. “We saw some delays in getting non-essential goods de-vanned and unloaded.”
However, New Zealand has announced an easing of lockdown restrictions from today, which Mr Coldrey said would help to reduce the backlog.
“But cargo moving in and out via air will continue to be affected until passenger flights are fully restored,” he added.
He said the issue now was the impact reopening businesses would have on freight movements, as businesses only had a few days to shut down.
“To ensure a smooth transition, it is important for these businesses to consider whether the recommencement of operations would be staggered, what goods or orders are required to meet the operation timeline and whether these are urgent.”


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Adults who have at least one diet drink a day are three times more at risk of a stroke or dementia.
This, according to researchers at Boston University, who believe the artificial sweeteners found in diet drinks including aspartame and saccharine maybe affecting the blood vessels, eventually triggering strokes and dementia.
Results of the study, conducted on 4,400 adults, found that diet drinks are more likely to cause strokes and dementia than those full of sugar.
While there was no link between sugary beverages and either of the illnesses, researchers aren’t encouraging us to drink them either.
Scientists say they should no longer be regarded as the healthier alternative and urge the public to stick to water or milk.
According to the results of a recent major review by Imperial College London, researchers found they were no better at assisting with weight loss than their sugar-filled counterparts. And in fact, authors suggested they were encouraging obesity by triggering the sugar receptors in the brain, making us crave sweet food.
In this latest study headed up by researchers from Boston University and published in the American Heart Association’s journal Stroke, researchers analyzed questionnaires from 4,372 adults over the age of 45.
Participants were asked questions pertaining to their food and drink intake in the 1990s, then tracked for the next ten years.
Results indicated that adults who had one (1) or more diet drinks per day were 2.9 times more likely to develop dementia, and up to 3 times more likely to experience strokes when compared to those who did not drink diet soda.
“Our study shows a need to put more research into this area given how often people drink artificially sweetened beverages,” said Matthew Pase, senior fellow in the department of neurology at Boston University School of Medicine.
[You May Also Be Interested In: Drinking Diet Soda Can Have Harmful Effects On Your Lungs, Brain, Kidneys, and Teeth”]
He encourages people to drink water instead of sugary drinks and cautions that while results of their research indicate those who drink pop are three times as likely to develop stroke or dementia, it is by no means a certain fate.
“In our study, 3 percent of the people had a new stroke and 5 percent developed dementia, so we’re still talking about a small number of people developing either stroke or dementia.”
The former chairwoman of the American Heart Association’s Nutrition Committee and professor of nutrition at the University of Vermont, Rachel Johnson, said: “We know that limiting added sugars is an important strategy to support good nutrition and healthy body weights, and until we know more, people should use artificially sweetened drinks cautiously.” Like Pase, she also encourages people to choose healthier drinks options, adding that diet drinks “may have a role for people with diabetes and in weight loss, but we encourage people to drink water, low-fat milk or other beverages without added sweeteners.”
Previous studies have shown they tend to be consumed by adults who are already overweight or obese.
“As people are becoming more aware of the consequences of a high-sugar diet, many are turning to artificially-sweetened diet fizzy drinks as an alternative to those with lots of sugar,” said Dr. Rosa Sancho, Head of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK. Adding, “this interesting new study has pointed to higher rates of dementia in people who drink more artificially-sweetened drinks, but it doesn’t show that these drinks are the cause of this altered risk. Future studies will need to confirm these findings in other groups of people, and explore what might be underlying any link between artificially-sweetened soft drinks and dementia.”
While future research is required to draw direct correlations between the consumption of diet drinks and heightened risk of stroke or dementia, the message is loud and clear. We simply don’t have a full understanding of the long-term effects these drinks are having on our bodies. Therefore, limit your consumption of diet soda and always opt for healthier options when you can.
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Global PC shipments will hit an estimated total of 51.9 million in Q4 2004, a 10.1 per cent increase from the same period last year. Strong sales to business are offsetting weak consumer demand to produce a positive outlook for the market, according to analysts Gartner. It reckons increased competition from digital entertainment products is hitting sales into the home.
"Aside from mobility, there is conspicuous lack of 'must have' new features for home PC users, and this is noticeably impacting home sales, especially replacements purchases," said George Shiffler, principal analyst for Gartner's client platforms research. Gartner reckons more and more homes are splashing out on flat panel TVs and similar gizmos rather than PCs.
View: The full story
News source: The Reg


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It’s late on a Friday afternoon in Castiglione del Lago, Italy, and the sailors from around the world have retreated to the clubhouse after a day of racing in the world championships.
In any given week, Tom Allen Jr. could leave his modest boat factory on Buffalo’s East Side and wind up here or in other locales halfway across the world sailing boats with customers.
But this isn’t vacation. Allen is on call.
As owner of Allen Boat Co., international excursions come with the territory. He goes where his customers are.
Allen and his seven-person staff build Lightnings – 19-foot racing sailboats made of fiberglass – in an aging brick warehouse at 370 Babcock St. for sailors who compete in some of the world’s most prestigious regattas.
On the Friday in June of last year, during the 2013 International Lightning Class Association World Championship, 18 of the top 20 finishers sailed on Lake Trasimeno in a boat made in Allen’s shop.
Allen attended and sailed, too. He’ll travel to about a dozen events each year to make himself available for customers – and noncustomers – who could use an impromptu repair.
“Almost all of the time, when everyone else heads to the bar or buffet, you’ll find Tom on his back underneath some boat, repairing fiberglass for somebody else,” said John Faus, president of the ILCA, which regulates the production of Lightning boats, “ – even if they’re not a customer of his.”
Chances are, though, that they are.
There are slightly more than 15,500 Lightnings in active circulation worldwide, according to the ILCA. Allen estimates his small company built around 30 percent of them.
History of winning
One of Allen’s most loyal customers, Kenmore resident David Starck, skippered an Allen boat when he won the World Championship a year ago.
Starck said he has purchased 10 boats from the company since he began racing.
“It’s a great story, the Allen Boat Co. as a small business,” said Starck, who also is a vice president for the ILCA. “Around the world, they’re like royalty. You can go to South America and they know who Tom Allen is.”
Allen Boat Co. customers range from apple farmers in upstate New York to shippers in Greece or businessmen in Ecuador.
The clientele is diverse because the company is one of a handful of certified Lightning Class manufacturers in the world and one of two in North America.
Customers pay about $30,000 per order, which could include the boat, a custom trailer to tow and all the other parts a customer might require, beside the sails.
“It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme,” said Allen, who has a degree in naval architecture and marine engineering from the University of Michigan.
The name Tom Allen became synonymous with Lightning boats in 1961 when Allen’s father, Tom Allen Sr., started winning events while crafting his own boats.
Tom Allen Sr. raced to four world championships. His competitors took notice.
“People would see his boats and go, ‘Oh, that’s pretty nice. Could you build one for us?’ ” Allen said of his father. “And all of a sudden he wasn’t building one boat for one guy, he was building five or six and next thing you know, he’s in business.”
From the mast to the hull, Allen, 53, builds them nothing like his father. The Lightning industry has changed substantially since he took over the business in the 1980s.
Tom Allen Sr., who passed away in 2012 at 81, is known to have produced as many as 80 vessels per year, relying on a sterling racing reputation and charismatic approach to selling to put boats in customer docks.
Lightnings were made of wood back then. Much of Tom Allen Jr.’s challenge has been perfecting the transition from wood to fiberglass, a building trend that began in the 1970s.
Today, a single Lightning takes Allen and his staff more than a month to build, molding each fiberglass piece from scratch and assembling by hand. The company takes its time producing about 15 each year, Allen said.
But now, with many sailors seeking to downsize to a more cost-effective product, Allen said the Lightning Class business is increasingly gaining a working-class reputation.
“It’s not an ultra high-end boat to get into and so that sort of promotes more of a down-to-earth, seat-of-the-pants type of group,” Allen said.
Allen Boat Co. will be on the international stage again beginning June 28, when the Buffalo Canoe Club welcomes the world’s top amateur Lightning sailors to Crystal Beach, Ont., for the ILCA Junior World Championship. It’s the fourth time the Buffalo Canoe Club is hosting the international event.
All 24 amateur sailors in the event will use Allen boats donated by the Canoe Club and sailors throughout the region.
Next summer will be even bigger for the Canoe Club and Allen Boat Co., when the club is set to host the World Championship for the first time since 1973.
Between the two events, Lightning Class sailing will bring hundreds of people from all over the world to the area, Faus said.
The ILCA selected the Buffalo Canoe Club and Lake Erie over venues from around the world for many of the same reasons sailing of all types is a popular pastime for Western New York – its wind conditions and facilities make Lake Erie a world-renowned destination for sailors.
“Water sports like sailing, kayaking and sport fishing are a vital part of the region’s tourism economy in the summertime,” said Brian Hayden, a spokesperson for Visit Buffalo Niagara. “There’s no question that our proximity to Lake Erie helps drive visitors to our area in the summer.”
That, in a nutshell, is why Allen has remained loyal to the region as his source for building world-class boats from Buffalo’s backyard.
“People are going to go where they feel they can get the fastest boats,” Starck said. “If someone else was building a faster boat, they would buy them there. We are very fortunate to have the company in our backyard.”


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The American auto industry may be on the edge of collapse with the US Senate set to reject the proposed $14 billion auto bailout, the last opportunity to approve the bailout until the new year.
The formal vote is still to be had, and Democrats said that they would present it anyway, but talks with minority Republicans failed to find support.
The White House said in a statement that it would evaluate its options, but declined to say what those options may be. Democrats have previously asked that some of the $700 billion bailout package approved in October be used to prop up the auto industry, an approach President Bush has so far rejected.
Oh well, they can always sell their corporate jets, that might cover GM and Chrysler for a day of two until they file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.


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WarnerMedia today announced that it has ordered two non-scripted series from the respective producers of Queer Eye and The Amazing Race for its upcoming streaming service, HBO Max.
Executive produced by Scout Productions’ Queer Eye operatives David Collins, Michael Williams and Rob Eric, Legendary will be a competition series themed around voguing, a competitive style of modern dance featuring over-the-top fashion and choreography based on classic model-on-catwalk poses. WarnerMedia has ordered 10 episodes of Legendary for HBO Max.
WarnerMedia has also commissioned Scout Productions to produce 10 episodes of The Greatest Space, along with New Media Collective (NMC), the shop behind The Amazing Race that features Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri
The Greatest Space will be a one-hour show featuring interior designers traveling around the world to transform an eclectic mix of empty rooms into spaces that are, you know, fabulous.
“Unscripted programming will be an incredibly important component of our HBO Max originals, and this is just the beginning of our venture into this space,” said Sarah Aubrey, head of original content, HBO Max. “These two initial shows will transport audiences to underground worlds and take them on visually stunning, exotic adventures, equaled only by the compelling stories of each contestant.
Related: HBO Max Lands Exclusive Streaming Rights to ‘Doctor Who’ in BBC Content Deal
WarnerMedia has put out a steady stream of programming announcements as it preps for the launch of its new subscription streaming platform in the spring off 2020. The latest reports put the monthly price point for the new service at around $15 a month, three times what Apple will be charging for its new originals-based platform, Apple TV+.
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Butlin’s, Haven & Warner Leisure Hotels will no longer be sold through travel agents as parent company Bourne Leisure has pulled its trade channel.
Bourne Leisure said it would focus its investment in “other areas of guest sales and communication” and has begun informing trade partners. It would not confirm the proportion of its business sold through the trade.
A transition period is underway, with some agent partners able to continue to sell stays at the parks, resorts and hotels until the end of contracts that are already in place.
A reduced trade sales team with remain in place for the duration of the transition period to ensure a smooth changeover and helping hand for partners that still hold bookings for customers. National trade sales manager Louise Tansey and head of trade sales and marketing, Erman Housein, will remain in their roles for the transition period, which will run until February 26, 2021.
Any Butlin’s, Haven or Warner Leisure Hotels breaks that have already been booked for 2021, as well as any booked during the transition period, will continue as planned and each brand will honour any current booking.
Bourne said it was also creating new roles as part of the consultation, and would look to redeploy staff affected by the restructure within the business “where possible”.
In a statement, the company said: “We have had to make some difficult choices over the last few months and one of these is unfortunately the decision to exit the travel trade.
“This has not been an easy decision especially as we know that our colleagues in the trade have also suffered as a result of the pandemic and we hugely value the relationships we have had for many years with these partners and thank them for their support. However, at this time we need to focus our investment in other areas of guest sales and communication.
“We have started the process of informing our partners in travel trade and the transition period will start immediately. We will have a team in place to manage any travel trade enquiries until the end of February and any holidays that have already been booked for 2021 and any booked during the transition period will continue as planned and each of our brands will honour any current booking.”
The company said Covid-19 “has had a seismic effect on the tourism and hospitality sector” and that, as a result, it was “making necessary changes to the products and services that we offer”.
Changes involve the three brands working more autonomously as separate businesses “with their own priorities” a decision Bourne Leisure said was “to allow us to emerge from this pandemic in a position to move forward strongly and continue to offer millions of guests a fantastic UK holiday”.
There will also be ‘organisational and operational changes’ at its Hemel Support Centre and at parks, resorts and hotels.
“We are confident that our three brands will grow and thrive in the future, but at this stage we cannot say when that will exactly be,” the statement said.
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It gets pretty hot in Qatar. In summer, temperatures can hit 47 °C, hot enough to make any outdoor event – like, say, the 2022 FIFA World Cup – a pretty uncomfortable experience.
This could have proved problematic for the designers of a new outdoor shopping complex at Doha’s Katara Cultural Village, too. But they’ve come up with a solution: they’re going to install outdoor air conditioning in the centre’s main plaza. Because that’s not an insane idea.
Outdoor air conditioning is actually becoming quite a big thing in Doha. This year, it was installed in the fan area of the Aspire Track Zone football stadium, as a trial for using similar technology at the World Cup.
The same system will be used in the shopping centre, at what developers the Albi Bin Ali group claim will be the first outdoor air conditioned plaza in the world.
Here’s how it works: air sucked in from outside is passed through an underground evaporative cooler, which lowers its temperature through condensation. Then, the air is passed over the water again, to cool it further, and passed out through grills onto the plaza, up to a height of about 2m.
The creators of the technology, Air2O, claim the method uses only 47 per cent of the energy used in conventional air conditioning units. However, its effectiveness relies on external conditions: on a very windy day, for example, the cooled air could be swept away much more quickly, making the whole thing far less efficient.
A spokesperson for the Ali Bin Ali group told us the system “is intended to keep the walking areas cool in extreme weather conditions, so as to provide a comfortable outdoor conditions for the visitors”.
Oh, and they’re also planning to build a special “children’s shopping centre” shaped like a giant wrapped present:
Image: Ali Bin Ali Group.
In for a penny.


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Ukrainian refugee sets up vodka importer in the UK
As war approached, Fedir Haidai and his family left their home in Kyiv to stay with a sponsor family more than 1,500 miles away in Harrogate, Yorkshire. Now, he is preparing to set up a new a business bringing Ukrainian vodka to the UK market.
Haidai was involved with two businesses in Ukraine, a paving tile manufacturer and a central heating pipe importer, but had to abandon both when the Russian army invaded, as he told The Yorkshire Post:
“I was on a business trip to Kherson in February when we heard that Russia was assembling soldiers, tanks and military equipment around 100 kilometres away. I spoke to my wife in Kyiv and said we must go now. She left work, picked up our son from nursery and a few belongs from home. We crossed into Moldova, where we were able to stay with friends. A few hours later we watched on TV as the invasion started.”
Upon eventually arriving in the UK some weeks afterwards, he joined the North Yorkshire branch of the Institute of Directors and used his connections to set up three new businesses. SunFlower-UA supplies Ukrainian sunflower oil to the catering industry (and demand is high as the invasion has caused major shortages). Another business assists in relocating Ukrainian IT experts to other parts of Europe.
The third is a response to what Haidai has called: “[the] significant demand for Ukrainian vodka”. Indeed, the combination of heavy tariffs on Russian products and a desire among consumers to express solidarity through their buying choices has created a call for the spirit.
The vodka Haidai will be importing is Hetman, produced in Lviv. The brand name refers to a high-ranking military officer, as the city’s vodka was known to be a favourite among Cossacks.
Perhaps fittingly, the specific Hetman on the bottle, Petro Doroshenko, sought to unite the left and right banks of Ukraine against Russia in the 17th century, though the Hetman company itself was founded in 1996. The decision to import a vodka from Lviv was partly due to the city’s relative security, being in the west of the country.
Haidai intends to sell the vodka online, via retail and through the on-trade. He said that he was “surprised and happy” to see the support Harrogate locals had given him in this new venture: “I need a lot of money to import vodka due to alcohol duty, but I have found some people who want to help me.”
Though he has been joined in Harrogate by his sister and niece, Haidai’s parents are currently still in Ukraine. He expressed optimism that his businesses would benefit his compatriots: “My business will be paying money into Ukraine and my hope is that will help local companies to employ more people”.