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From being totally ignored and occupying an eternal place on the shelves of pharmacies and gondolas in supermarkets, the gel alcohol It became the most demanded and, at the same time, least found product in Argentina.
It was a niche product for daily hygiene, but it was largely forgotten by local consumers. And its popularity was surprising and due to the unfortunate coronavirus pandemic.
The demand was so great that the jars still available cost almost as a luxury or luxury product.. To such an extent that the Government had to go out to force manufacturers and businesses to roll back their prices to what they cost on March 6.
However, the shortage is almost total and its traditional manufacturers cannot cope because they do not have sufficient capacity to sustain demand, which is incessant and increasingly high simultaneously with the growth of the virus in the country.
In fact, only in March the demand multiplied by 10 being one of the most effective “remedies” to kill bacteria and fungi.
The main local alcohol gel manufacturer has 60% of the market share. This is the Cordovan company Porta Hnos, which is in the process of preventive bankruptcy and is famous for being the owner of the 1882 fernet brand.
But, with a liability close to $ 3,000 million, the company cannot maintain its supply levels of its product Bialcohol, the same thing that happens with the laboratory Elea Phoenix, from the Insud group of Hugo Sigman, another of the largest manufacturers of alcohol gel in the country.
Faced with this worrying situation and while waiting for the coronavirus to continue its upward course in the country, the Government began to outline a “war” strategy so that companies from other sectors can become not only momentary providers of gel alcohol but also of other medical supplies necessary to avoid contagion.
So far, the administration of Alberto Fernández managed that Important companies from sectors as different as the automotive, the winemaker and the biofuels come up with proposals to help in this critical moment of the pandemic.
The first sector that took over the post was that of the bioethanol producers and the main sugar mills in the country that offered to allocate part of their operations to increase the amount of alcohol that would allow, in part, to solve this lack.
This is because gel alcohol is made up of medicinal ethyl alcohol and glycerin, which in turn come from soybeans and corn, from where biofuels are produced.
In this framework, representatives of the Argentine Sugar Center (CAA), met last week with officials from the Ministry of Productive Development to analyze variants that allow them to help in this crisis.
Entrepreneurs offered to redirect part of their usual bioethanol production to make pharmaceutical-specified alcohol, the base input for gel alcohol.
The objective is to help normalize the supply of the product, which would require reducing the mandatory cut of bioethanol in fuels, which is currently set at 10% for biodiesel and 12% for bioethanol.
For now, several companies in this sector made unilateral contributions to the Government to try to alleviate the situation, as in the case of Ledesma group, who donated 2,500 liters of alcohol to the Jujuy Ministry of Health, in order to produce gel alcohol in the face of the health and epidemiological emergency decreed by the government.
Producers from Córdoba, San Luis and Santa Fe also donated 150,000 liters of the product to the respective provincial governments for the manufacture of alcohol gel.
Another example is that of the winery Chandon, owned by the French group LVMH, which He offered the government of Mendoza to allocate part of his vineyards in the town of Luján de Cuyo to produce 1,000 weekly alcohol gel.
The company seeks to make use of a resolution of the National Institute of Viticulture (INV) that allows the use of intervened wines, which due to technical deficiencies are not suitable for consumption but which, due to their high ethyl content, makes them ideal for the production of much-needed alcohol in gel.
In the sector it is assured that there is the possibility of making a free and beneficial distribution of almost four million bottles of alcohol gel from wines that arose due to volatile acidity above the established limit or greatly exaggerated characteristics of strange and unpleasant aromas and flavors .
In fact, the company has already started the procedures with the Ministry of Health of the province to start the production of this input in the winery with the aim of making donations to the main health centers in the province.
At first, There will be 1,000 bottles of 300ml of alcohol in gel as well as another 1,000 liters in bulk to be divided and to start production in the warehouse with a first delivery of 1,000 liters per week.
Another example of companies that are going to derive part of their productive capacities to the manufacture of instruments that help fight the coronavirus are those of the automotive company. Toyota and the auto part Mirgor.
For these hours, both companies offered the ministry led by Matías Kulfas help to combat the virus. In the case of the terminal of Japanese origin, it uses parts of its plant located in the Buenos Aires town of Zárate for the production of respirators that allow patients with coronavirus to be assisted.
The idea is to minimize dependence on imports as much as possible in order to obtain this medical equipment by assembling a highly useful metallic respiratory support to detect the virus.
But the possibility of producing mechanical respirators for people who have contracted the disease is also being evaluated.
In this case, Toyota will assemble an assembly line with parts that will provide the Mirgor auto partswhose core business It is usual to assemble on-board computers and air conditioning systems for cars.
In the area of beauty, the Brazilian cosmetics group was at the tip Nature that will temporarily modify all of its makeup and fragrance production lines in Latin America to manufacture hand sanitizer.
The company, which a few months ago closed the Avon purchase and became the fourth largest beauty products company in the world, thus joining a global trend by private companies to help in the battle against COVID-19.
But not only large groups are joining this initiative, but from the sector of the recovered companies and cooperatives They are also coming up with proposals to fight the virus.
An example is that of Savior Plastics, exOropel, whose operatives decided to keep the factory open to produce containers of alcohol in gel, more than anything to supply the demand of laboratories and private companies.
With this objective, they transformed their production since they usually manufacture containers for water, oil and pharmacies, in different volumes of between 10 and 500 milliliters.
Likewise, a gin distillery located in Coronel Vidal started manufacturing gel alcohol and has already reached 800 fermented liters that were donated to the towns of Mar Chiquita, Vivoratá and Coronel Vidal.
An example that is followed by another distillery, in this case located in Neuquén and which operates under the name of Patagonian Distillery, which until a few days ago made gin and vodka.
Its owners agreed with the provincial government to donate several thousand liters of alcohol, a product of its distillation chain, in addition to putting the distillery at the service of generating this product.
On an international level Bacardi It will produce hand sanitizers at its the world’s largest premium rum distillery located in Puerto Rico.
It will use the facilities of the plant located in the town of Cataño, where it produces more than 80% of its rum brands, to provide raw materials that will allow the production of more than 1.7 million units of gel alcohol.
Other similar cases occur in Brazil, where AmBev, the largest brewer in Latin America and owner in Argentina of Quilmes, which would modify one of its plants in the state of Rio de Janeiro to produce hand sanitizer.
Furthermore, its controller AB InBev began distributing 50,000 liters of disinfectant made with the alcohol that it withdraws from its beers without graduation to various European hospitals.
Meanwhile, the world’s largest manufacturer of distilled beverages, Diageo, owner of Johnny Walker or Baileys, will donate two million liters of neutral alcohol to make spirits to companies that make disinfectant gels.
In Germany, the liquor manufacturer Jägermeister He has promised to deliver 50,000 liters of alcohol to the Braunschweig Hospital Pharmacy to make these gels.
Even the popular Colombian singer Shakira He ordered his company to stop producing perfumes to make alcohol gel.
The singer resides with her husband Gerard Piqué and their children in Spain, one of the countries most affected by the coronavirus and which currently ranks second worldwide in the number of deaths only behind Italy.
In fact, in Europe there are many large groups that are following the same path, especially in the luxury industry, where companies such as Givenchy or Dior They will add to their exclusive perfumes the production of alcohol in gel.
Both brands are, like Chandon, owned by the LVMH holding company, and they also add the manufacture of masks to distribute for free in French hospitals, although they will extend the initiative to other countries, including Spain.
Also the Gallic group Pernod-Ricard, considered the second world consortium of spirits, donated 70,000 liters of pure alcohol to the French laboratory Cooper, the main distributor in national pharmacies for alcohol gel that has been exhausted in practically all French and Spanish establishments, where it has a plant in the Manzanares area.
In a document distributed a few days ago, the holding company assured that “it places its technical, human and production resources at the service of the authorities to produce hand gel.”
And that it will produce gel alcohol in all the countries where it owns distilleries, such as the Absolut Vodka plant in Sweden or the American Rabbit Hole (Kentucky), Smooth Ambler (West Virginia) and TX Whiskey (Texas).
Too The real wants to do its part. The French cosmetic giant launched this week a “European coronavirus solidarity plan” and in addition to increasing its production of gel alcohol, it will prioritize its distribution in hospitals and nursing homes.
Date published: Mar 30, 2020
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Pepsi’s New Ad Receives An Avalanche Of Backlash For Its Poor Execution
By Hannah Sofea, 05 Apr 2017
Earlier today, beverage brand Pepsi released a three-minute advert featuring model Kendall Jenner in her natural habitat as she ditches her photo shoots (and blonde wig) to join an ongoing protest.
A release made by the brand states that the spot stands as part of a campaign titled ‘Live For Now’—to live life “unbounded, unfiltered and uninhibited.”
In the beginning of the advert, the story seems decent—with various people of different ethnicities and backgrounds, including Jenner, coming together in the fight for peace and equality. Things take a turn towards the end when Jenner is seen handing an open can of Pepsi to a riot guard on duty. Cheers of joy and victory erupt from the crowd when the guard accepts Jenner’s offer and takes a long sip at the drink.
Social media, though, was definitely not chiming along to the irrelevant and tone-deaf advert.
In the act of promoting its beliefs, Pepsi has clearly failed tremendously. The video starkly showcases countless political references against the current administration, co-opting movements such as ‘#BlackLivesMatter’ and featuring various ethnicities coming in unison. Certainly, the idea of raising awareness to such issues was clear, but the execution of the ending has been deemed outrageous.
Pepsi has stood by its commercial and told Adweek, “This is a global ad that reflects people from different walks of life coming together in a spirit of harmony, and we think that’s an important message to convey.”
What do you think? Has Pepsi done poorly in its marketing or are the negative comments short of validity?
As of Wednesday morning, Pepsi has decided to pull the ad from all of its official sites.
Below lies the controversial advert published onto Kendall and Kylie Jenner’s YouTube channel, along with highlights of the responses from Twitter.
You can also see the most hilarious responses to the ad here.
and to think, all rodney king needed to avoid that beating was a pepsi— Ziwe (@ziwe) April 5, 2017
Tweet via ziwe
i get it now. if black lives matter protesters would've handed a pepsi to the cops they wouldnt of gotten tear gassed. it's so clear now.— quinta b. (@quintabrunson) April 4, 2017
Tweet via quintabrunson
"Wow, I just solved all the problems in the country by being rich and thin and white and pretty. What else should I do today?" pic.twitter.com/vZiAgrkmaF— Olivia A. Cole (@RantingOwl) April 4, 2017
Tweet via RantingOwl
Tweet via slchen_
[via Adweek, video via Kendall and Kylie, tweets via various sources]
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WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans increased their borrowing in August with the category that covers auto and student loans rising by the largest amount in nine months.
The Federal Reserve reported consumer debt rose by a seasonally adjusted $20.1 billion in August following a gain of $16.6 billion in July.
The August performance exceeded expectations. Many economists had been looking for a smaller increase of around $15 billion.
The gain was led by a $15.2 billion rise in auto loans and student loans, the biggest jump in this category since last November. The category that covers credit cards saw an increase of $4.8 billion, up from a $1.3 billion rise in July.
Consumer borrowing is closely watched for signals it sends about household spending which accounts for 70 percent of economic activity.


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Wadi records successful turnover in H1
Wadi's successful H1 2017 means it has become operationally profitable
E-commerce platform Wadi has reported a 200% increase in turnover, resulting in the site becoming operationally profitable in the first half of 2017.
Wadi, a popular shopping platform in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, revealed that after securing $67m Series A funding in 2015 it has now moved towards net profitability.
Wadi also achieved a score of 60% on the Net Promoter Score, a global index that measures customer satisfaction for e-commerce platforms.
Pratik Gupta, one of Wadi's founders, said: "We are at a very exciting and pivotal phase of the Wadi story. In the last one year, our delivery is faster by 50% and our service and product range has changed the way people shop online. This has been made possible because of our dedication to pushing the e-commerce boundaries to further excel customer experience.
"Achieving our operational profitability has solidified investor confidence in us and deepened their understanding of Wadi's business culture. The next 18 months will see us achieving our net profitability and we can't wait for the next chapter in the Wadi journey."
In the second half of 2017, Wadi has revealed its expansion plans where it will extend its international product portfolio allowing customers to purchase such brands without incurring international shipping costs.
Wadi operates in 25 cities across the UAE and KSA, Wadi's large network of delivery systems, run by more than 200 delivery vans and drivers ensures an unravelled faster and on time delivery service.


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260 total views
(CHK) According to information from the dealer, the price of Toyota Veloz Cross is likely to cool down in the near future, increasing pressure on rival Mitsubishi Xpander in the sales race in the MPV segment in the Vietnamese market. .
Although only entering the MPV segment in the Vietnamese market, Toyota Veloz Cross has quickly proven its appeal. In the past month, along with Toyota Avanza, sales of Toyota Veloz Cross have reached an impressive milestone and proved not to be inferior to the “segment king” Mitsubishi Xpander.
Even now, the number of Toyota Veloz Cross cars is not enough to deliver to customers. According to a survey at many dealers, due to supply constraints, many Toyota Veloz Cross buyers have to wait until October and November to receive their cars. However, recently, an information related to Toyota Veloz Cross shows that the shortage period of Toyota Veloz Cross is coming to an end and it is likely that the price of Toyota Veloz Cross will also “cool down” in the near future.
Specifically, according to a source from the dealer, Toyota Veloz Cross will soon be converted to domestic assembly instead of importing CBU as it is now. As expected, the “rivalry” of Mitsubishi Xpander will begin to be assembled in the country from the end of 2022 and the first batch of assembled cars will be sold to the Vietnamese market in early 2023.
The locally assembled Toyota Veloz Cross means that the supply of this MPV model will be more secure. Besides, it is highly likely that the locally assembled Toyota Veloz Cross will have a “softer” price than the imported version, similar to many other Toyota models. Abundant supply along with affordable prices will be the factors that will help Toyota Veloz Cross sales peak in the near future. This will also be a big advantage of Toyota Veloz Cross before competitors in the same segment such as Mitsubishi Xpander or Suzuki XL7.
Toyota Veloz Cross owns an eye-catching and impressive design with many first-time equipment in the segment. The “threat” of Mitsubishi Xpander is provided by the automaker with an electronic handbrake, an automatic folding mirror with integrated turn signal, a touch screen connected to a wireless phone, automatic air conditioning and many other equipment and features. other attractiveness. Most recently, the price of Toyota Veloz Cross has been adjusted by Toyota Vietnam and increased by 10 million VND compared to the previous listed price.
#latest #information #Toyota #Veloz #Cross #Vietnamese #customers #wake #opportunity #buy #cheap #car #coming


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Dubai will welcome London concept China Tang this year, according to founder Evgeny Kuzin
Dubai-based hospitality firm Bulldozer Group is set to open nine dining concepts across the GCC, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, according to founder and managing partner Evgeny Kuzin.
Bulldozer Group, founded in 2013 by Russian entrepreneurs Evgeny Kuzin, Alex Orlov and Maxim Vlasov, is known for bringing global concepts including Monte Carlo’s famous Sass Café, London’s celebrity hangout Novikov, Sydney’s prominent Toko, and Venice’s legendary Cipriani to Dubai..
Speaking to Arabian Business, Kuzin said the region will see new restaurant openings in the next couple of months.
“We have nine projects in the pipeline for 2018 and 2019 in the GCC alone,” he said.
"We have more global plans for Hong Kong, London and New York. We’re investing a lot, but we have loyal customers, so we’re doing great."
The first opening is Greek-Mediterranean restaurant GAIA, which will open in September in DIFC and will be headed by Chef Izu Ani, famous for launching successes La Petite Maison and La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie.
Kuzin said the homegrown concept will open opposite Cipriani, the Italian franchise brought to Dubai by Bulldozer Group in 2016.
GAIA will be followed by the opening of London concept China Tang sometime this year in DIFC, he revealed. The restaurant in Dorchester Hotel serves Cantonese cuisine in rooms designed in Art Deco, aimed at evoking 1930s Shanghai.
The managing partner also said the group will expand Japanese Italian concept Novikov to Saudi Arabia “very soon, in a couple of months.”
The concept by Russian billionaire restaurateur Arkady Novikov was brought to Dubai by Bulldozer Group in 2015.
The group will also launch Italian restaurant Scalini in the kingdom in April, with an initial branch in Riyadh and future outlets planned for Jeddah. The concept in Dubai is located in the prestigious Four Seasons Resort in Jumeirah.
Kuzin said Novikov Dubai is doing “alright,” while Scalini is “doing great.” He opened Beirut rooftop concept Seven Sisters in April as an outdoor venue in JW Marriott Marquis in Business Bay. The venue will re-open in August following the installation of an air-conditioned retractable roof, enabling it to open year-round in 2019, Kuzin said.
He added that while Dubai boasts a large number of dining outlets, some of its franchises in the city are achieving the group’s highest results when compared to their other global concepts.
The Bulldozer Group is the Middle East arm of Bulldozer Group Worldwide (BGW), which has over 90 properties across eight markets.travel news from the UAE and Gulf countries, follow us on Twitter and Linkedin, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.


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Reliance Jio has taken a decision in the favour of jio phone users. On Friday Reliance jio said that they are working with Reliance Foundation to give 300 free minutes of outgoing calls per month, which amounts to 10 minutes per day, for the entire period of the pandemic.
The company said that the scheme is only for those io phone users who have not been able to recharge their mobile phones during the pandemic. This is first company which has given free talk time to their customers.
“Jio working with Reliance Foundation will provide 300 free minutes of outgoing calls per month (10 minutes per day) for the entire period of the pandemic, to JioPhone users who have not been able to recharge due to the ongoing pandemic,” Jio said in a statement.
Along with the free talk time, Jio has also announced the plan that they are going to add some other recharge plan of the same value for free. The company has said that they are going to give comfort to their customers, mainly who are not privileged sections of the society.


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Oracle CEO Larry Ellison says he plans to turn the Hawaiian island of Lanai that he bought in June into a laboratory for experimenting with more environmentally sound ways of living.
SAN FRANCISCO — Oracle CEO Larry Ellison says he plans to turn the Hawaiian island that he recently bought into a laboratory for experimenting with more environmentally sound ways of living.
Ellison says he hopes to convert seawater into fresh water on the 141-mile-square mile island of Lanai. He also wants more electric cars on the island and hopes to increase its fruit exports to Japan and other markets.
Ellison made the remarks in San Francisco in an interview with the financial news channel CNBC that focused mostly on Oracle Corp., a software maker that he has been running for 35 years.
Oracle’s success has minted Ellison with an estimated fortune of $41 billion. He bought most of Lanai from billionaire David Murdock in June for an undisclosed price.
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Liverpool-based digital media, technology and entertainment company Starship has announced the development of Playworld Superheroes, its upcoming mobile game, which aims to engage a player’s imagination as they create their own superhero and take it on a series of adventures. The game is aimed at players aged 5+, and will be free from in-app purchases.
“CSI” franchise creator and executive producer Anthony E. Zuiker, in partnership with family-friendly entertainment company Fanlala and nabi tablet creator Fuhu, Inc. have today announced “Mysteryopolis,” an animated video series that combines traditional videos with interactive games in a new genre focused on “gamified narratives.” Mysteryopolis debuts this week, exclusively on Fuhu’s new nabi Pass, a subscription service available on the nabi family of tablets.
As we celebrate the Christmas holiday season, mobile developers are hoping to snag a bit of your time with themed content updates in many popular games on iOS, Android and beyond. Here’s a look at just a handful of the updates available, which should offer a little something for every type of gamer.
Zynga has today announced it is resurrecting and redesigning one of its previously shuttered Facebook games as a mobile experience. Empires & Allies, which was removed from Facebook in 2013, is being reimagined as a new mobile experience, developed using the insights and player feedback Zynga has accumulated over time.
Kabam and Marvel Entertainment have announced the release of Marvel Contest of Champions on iOS and Android devices. The fighting game was developed by Kabam’s Vancouver Studio and contains a storyline written by Marvel Comics writer Sam Humphries. In the game, players build and manage a team of heroes and villains from the Marvel Universe, taking them into battle against their enemies in a quest for power.
It’s time to once again celebrate the holidays in The Sims FreePlay, as a Christmas event has launched in EA’s life simulation game. Players can now decorate their homes for Christmas, and will eventually be able to complete new quests alongside Santa Claus as they work to save the holiday. This event comes with plenty of new items to decorate your Sims’ homes, and even dress your Sims (and pets) to match the occasion.
Pixelberry Studios has today announced a new version of its popular high school simulation game High School Story, introducing an SAT-prep feature to players. The new update will tackle the teen stress epidemic by allowing players to easily study word vocabulary within the game. This update follows other cause-specific updates Pixelberry has released, including one focused on cyberbullying and another that highlighted teen eating disorder and body issues.
Earlier this year, Electronic Arts and PopCap announced the development of Peggle Blast, a free-to-play installment in the popular franchise, which challenges players to shoot balls at pegs to remove them from the screen. The company has now announced an official release date for the title, as Peggle Blast will hit iOS and Android devices on December 2.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner (for those that celebrate it this week), and app developers are capitalizing on the holiday by giving us all something to be thankful for: content updates in popular games, from High School Story to Spider-Man Unlimited and beyond. Here’s a look at a few of those updates, available across smartphones and tablets.
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A fire broke out in the basement of a luxury hotel in the port city on Tuesday morning. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
Chattogram fire service officials told UNB that the fire started around 6.45 am at The Peninsula Chittagong and was contained within an hour and a half.
"The extent of damage is yet to be ascertained. A probe has been ordered to find out the exact cause of the fire," he added.
Founded on July 25, 2002, The Peninsula Chittagong is the first and among the very few luxury hotels in the port city.
Located near the famous GEC circle of Chattogram, the hotel is popular for its delicious cuisine, top notch services and attractive outlets.


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Apple's wireless AirPods headphones could see massive growth over the next few years, TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo wrote in a research note released last week. It's a positive sign for Apple as it seeks new growth areas that can help the company squeeze more revenue out of each iPhone user.
Kuo, who has a track record of accurately predicting Apple product launches, said AirPods are Apple's most popular accessory ever.
In the note, Kuo said Apple AirPods have the fastest growth momentum of any Apple product. Kuo estimates Apple will ship 26 million to 28 million AirPod units this year, up from 14 million to 16 million in 2017. Kuo also expects Apple to release a new version of AirPods next year with wireless charging that will help propel shipments to 50 million to 55 million units next year, 70 million to 80 million units in 2020 and 100 million to 110 million units in 2021.


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Electrocuted by iPhone while bathing, this Russian model dies
Electrocuted by iPhone while bathing, this Russian model dies – A 24-year-old fashion model from Arkhangelsk, Russia, was found dead in her apartment by Olesya Semenova.
Semenova's roommate, Daria, first noticed Semenova's body lying stiff in the bathroom. While trying to save Semenova, Daria said she felt an electric shock on her friend's skin.
At the scene of the incident, Daria also found Semenova's iPhone 8 immersed in the bathtub. It turned out that the cellphone was on charge, so it was calculated that it would generate an electric current in the bathtub where Semenova was bathing.
“When I touched her (Semenova), I was electrocuted. Apparently there is one cell phone that is being charged immersed in water," said Daria.
After further investigations were carried out, the paramedic team also said that the cause of Semenova's death was caused by an electric shock.
Usually, cellphones that fall into water don't pose a danger. The iPhone 8 itself has IP67 certification, so it can function even if it has been dropped in water with a maximum depth of 1 meter. all 30 minutes.
But in this case, Semenova's cell phone is currently on charge. So, the electric current from the charging port will have the potential to stab if it falls into the water.
Before she died, Semenova was found to have often taken her cellphone with her when she was going to take a shower. This can be seen from the various collections of pictures and videos in his cellphone gallery.
Tragically, this is not the first case of death stemming from a cell phone being charged in the bathroom.
Last August, a 15-year-old girl from Moscow, Russia was declared dead from an electric shock in her bathroom.
The same incident was felt by international poker star, Liliya Novikova. The 26-year-old woman was found dead after she was electrocuted while taking a shower.
The Russian Ministry has even issued a warning regarding the dangers of using a cellphone while charging it while in the bathroom.


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The Burlington Planning Board is . this afternoon in the Annex basement meeting room to discuss the 3A/Canyon project. The Canyon site is the
According to the meeting agenda, the discussion will focus on proposed rezoning and mitigation as well as any restrictive covenants between the developer and the town.
The Gutierrez Company, the developer looking to possibly purchase the land from the state and sell it to Target for a new location, has previously for Middlesex Turnpike and Wheeler Road in response to concerns that the proposed store will add to the already-congested traffic in the area.
, however, have remained unconvinced and expressed concerns at public meetings. The latest news is that the zoning change that was originally on the January Town Meeting warrant was held for a future date.
Burlington Patch will cover the meeting and carry a story on the proceedings. Anyone interested in catching up on the issue can find more information in the stories below:


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If you’re planning to be an early adopter of the Nintendo Switch, you might want to get your pre-order in quick as online retailers are already starting to sell out of their allocated launch stock. The console, which we now know will launch on March 3, has flown off the shelves on Amazon, with listings on its US and UK pages stating that all orders placed from now onwards will be fulfilled in the order that they’re placed, as and when new stock becomes available. How many units retailers have been allocated by Nintendo isn’t clear, but with Amazon being the largest online retailer out there, for it to have sold out already can only be a sign that the company has struck a chord with consumers this time around, right?
It’s much, much too early to say for sure, but it’s certainly a promising indication of confidence in the product, something the Wii U never quite managed to achieve. A combination of nonsensical branding and a lack of third-party support led to a relatively quick death for the Switch’s predecessor, a mistake that Nintendo has vowed not to make again.
But hey, we’ve dwelled on the past long enough. The Nintendo Switch will be with us in less than two months and while its launch line-up is looking a little lackluster, the confirmation that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will be available alongside the new hardware on March 3 truly is a monumental selling point that Nintendo needed.
Nintendo Switch will be available on the aforementioned date for $299.99 in the US and £279.99 in the UK. If you missed your chance to pre-order with Amazon, don’t despair – other retailers still appear to be going strong, although who knows for how long.


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Good news, we’ve recorded 2 brand new songs which will be released as an exclusive 7-inch by H42 Records, see pic below. It’ll be a limited run with several different vinyl colors and pre-orders start at Sept 3. Follow us and H42 Records on social media for more updates on this!
Lots of fun shows coming up and we start fall touring this week on Thursday in Duisburg. We’re hitting some venues we’ve been to several times in the past and some new places. On the October dates we’re joined by Swiss band, The Basement Saints, which will be fun! Looking forward to see some familiar faces as well as some new ones of course, bring your friends and we’ll bring the riffs!
There’s an up to date list of shows in the live section and for the nerds the setlist section is also up to date.
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Scottsdale is attracting younger visitors who aren’t afraid to flash some cash, according to a tourism study released Tuesday.
The Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau commissioned a study covering the period between June 2005 and May 2006 that analyzed records from 14 Scottsdale resorts and hotels.
For the second year in a row, the study showed visitors ages 35-44 made up the majority of people coming to Scottsdale, followed by those ages 45-54.
“We are seeing the age drop a little bit,” said David Richard, director of marketing at The Phoenician Resort. “It was more of a 55-type, and now we’re seeing more of the 40-to-45ish. You can tell a good amount of a young crowd is coming into the hotel.”
Baby boomers still make up a large number of guests, Richard said.
“But the Gen X traveler is spending a lot of money on travel and entertainment,
and the Scottsdale market is benefitting from that,” he said. “We see a lot more spa usage, and I think they tend to eat off-property a little bit more. I think those are probably the biggest changes we see.”
This trend mirrors the findings from another study of Scottsdale’s visitor demographics, which showed the average age in 2002 was 53.3. The average age in 2006 was 52.2. That information came from the Scottsdale Inquiry Conversion Study, conducted annually by Phoenix’s Behavior Research Center.
Urban development has been the main attraction to younger visitors, said Lauren Simons, vice president of marketing for the visitors bureau.
“Things like the Waterfront, the arts district, the Mondrian Hotel, the Hotel Valley Ho and the new W Hotel coming in attract a younger demographic,” she said.
Those people also have more discretionary income, she added.
Although New Yorkers between 19 and 24 make up less than 5 percent of the visitors, they match the amount of money spent per stay by the 35- to 44-year-olds — $1,750, the study reports.
And the same young group from San Francisco outspends almost all the others, at more than $1,250.
Only visitors 75 years and older spend more, according to the Visitor Industry Customer Analysis.
Simons said the shift toward younger tourists wasn’t part of a grand scheme — it happened organically.
“The night life scene in Scottsdale has sort of developed in the last few years to be something of a world-class night life scene,” she said.
Along with younger, spend-happy visitors, the study pointed to other trends in Scottsdale tourism.
Along with the biggest markets — New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco — the city is seeing more people from Denver and San Diego, the study reports.
California visitors are especially interested in the discounted summer rates at Scottsdale resorts, Simons said.
“It’s a quick getaway. They like the resorts, and the open space is a little bit more vast here than it is in L.A.,” she said.
The study also pointed out special events such as the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show bring lots of visitors — but they don’t stay long, an average of 2.6 nights. The visitors bureau plans to market Scottsdale’s other activities to encourage longer stays and to fill more weeknight rooms.
This is the third year the visitors bureau has participated in the study, prepared by Ruf Strategic Solutions. “It helps us get more strategic in our marketing programs,” Simons said. “We have a good idea of who’s coming to Scottsdale.”
Major findings from the study:
• While the New York City area is one of the most lucrative markets, visitors aren’t coming from Manhattan, but within Long Island and northern suburbs around the Big Apple.
• The most popular time to come is March or April, but the research shows growing interest in November and December.
• Events like the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction bring in thousands, but they don’t stay long — less than three days. The visitors bureau is looking for ways to tell people about other activities in the city.
Source: Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau


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5th Annual Food, Wine & Brew Festival, Nov. 4
Sample food from the best local restaurants around along with 100 craft beers and 30 wines from around the country. Enjoy the sports bar, live entertainment, and cigar lounge. It all takes place in beautiful downtown Daytona Beach at The News-Journal Center. For more information, visit News-JournalEvents.com or call 386-681-2365.
Halifax Art Festival, Nov. 5-6
Set in historic downtown Daytona Beach on the scenic Halifax River, this two-day professionally juried and judged art show attracts more than 200 artists from throughout the United States. It also features music, food, entertainment and special activities for children. For more information, visit HalifaxArtFestival.com.
40th Annual Greek Festival, Nov. 10-13
Come to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church and experience one of Daytona Beach’s most attended and enjoyed celebrations with authentic food, dance
and music. For more information, visit StDemetriosDaytona.org.
Flamingo Follies Holiday Art Show, Nov. 12-13
More than 120 artists and crafters from around the state will be on display in New Smyrna Beach for the 25th annual Flamingo Follies Holiday Art Show. There will also be plenty of entertainment and food vendors at this free event. For more information, call 386-424-2175.
DeLand Fall Festival of the Arts, Nov. 19-20
Woodland Boulevard blossoms into an artist’s garden of color as nearby DeLand hosts its ever-popular art show. Over 180 juried national artists will display and sell artwork in mediums including painting, glass, sculpture, jewelry, leather, photography, printmaking, wood, ceramics and fiber. For more information, visit DelandFallFestival.com.
43rd Annual Daytona Turkey Run, Nov. 24-27
Welcome to the largest combined classic car show and swap meet in the United States. Enjoy over 6,000 vintage, classic, muscle and race cars, and trucks. Includes a massive swap meet and car corral along with arts and crafts on Artisan Alley. All in Daytona International Speedway’s famous infield. For more information,
Ferrari World Finals, Dec. 1-4
For the first time in history the Ferrari World Finals, or the Finali Mondiali as it’s also known, will take place in North America at Daytona International Speedway! It brings together Ferrari Challenge competitors from around the world to battle for the World Championship. For tickets and more information, visit DaytonaInternationalSpeedway.com.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical, Dec. 21
The beloved TV classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. Come see all of your favorite characters as they come to life in this national Broadway Touring production at Peabody Auditorium. For tickets and information, visit PeabodyAuditorium.org.
Check out “Events Calendar” on DaytonaBeach.com for more ideas!


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Final Fantasy VII: The First Soldier will shut down on January 11th, 2023, Square Enix has confirmed.
This will be just over one year after the free-to-play battle royale game launched on Android and iOS in November 2021.
“Despite all our efforts to bring you regular updates with fresh and exciting content, we haven’t been able to deliver the experience that we were hoping to, and that you all deserve, so we have made the extremely tough decision to end service for Final Fantasy VII: The First Soldier,” Square Enix wrote in a statement via the game’s official Twitter account.
The company adds that it will continue to provide updates for the game leading up to its closure. However, Shinra Credits, the game’s in-app currency that can be purchased with real money, have been removed from the in-game shop. Therefore, only previously purchased Shinra Credits can be used until service ends.
Square Enix attempted to make The First Soldier stand out through multiplayer combat that mixed traditional guns with character classes, spells, monsters and locations from Final Fantasy VII. That said, the battle royale market is incredibly saturated, even on mobile, due to juggernauts like Fortnite, PUBG, Apex Legends and Call of Duty.
While The First Soldier is coming to an end, the Final Fantasy VII series is pushing along at full speed. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion, a remaster of the PSP prequel to the original FFVII, will launch on consoles and PC on December 13th. Additionally, Ever Crisis, a mobile retelling of the entire Final Fantasy VII series, is set to hit mobile sometime later this year. And, of course, there’s the highly anticipated sequel to Final Fantasy VII Remake, titled Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which will release on PS5 sometime “next winter.”
Source: Square Enix


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One of Britain’s brightest teenage entrepreneurs will open Belper’s Youth Market next month.
Scott Chapman, of Allestree, who was tipped as ‘the next Richard Branson’ by Dragons’ Den TV star Peter Jones, will kick-off trading at the event on May 4.
The 14-year-old shot to prominence three years ago, when he won the Tenner Tycoon competition – a nationwide project to promote enterprise in schools.
Run by Enterprise UK and fronted by Peter Jones, the annual contest involves tens of thousands of children across the UK being loaned £10 for a month, from which they are challenged to make money.
Fair organiser Kathy Fairweather said: “ We are privileged to have Scott Chapman, to come and open the festival. He’s a real inspiration.
“I’m also very pleased at the number of young creatives and caterers who have taken up the offer of free stalls to showcase their talents.
“This is a very innovative project for the area. This is trying to address the big issue of youth unemployment. The shocking government reports that there are 102,000 unemployed young people under the age of 24 in the East Midlands alone, are extremely worrying.”
The event is thought to be the first of its kind in the East Midlands and will include more than 50 stalls.
It will feature stalls and social areas where budding talents can earn some extra money by selling their creations, products and services – ranging from handmade jewellery, quirky craft items, vintage and second hand clothing or furniture to fashion designers, original artwork, catering and home-made food.
It is hoped young creatives will be able to develop their own personal brand, network with other budding entrepreneurs and explore the possibility of a more permanent business opportunity.
Mrs Fairweather continued: “This is a great opportunity for children or grandchildren who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs, there will be a number of or to get free advice and information.
“Please bring your whole family, this promises to be a fun filled day.”
The day will also be a celebration of all forms of art. Young artists and performers of all genres will be showcasing their talents and entertaining the visitors
Mrs Fairweather continued: “The day also marks the beginning of the Belper Arts Festival and offers fabulous entertainment by a variety of young performers.
For full details of the event visit www.belperyouthmarket.org.uk


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UMaine Extension Publishes Bulletin on Raising Rabbits for Meat
University of Maine Cooperative Extension has released a bulletin to inform people interested in becoming backyard producers of meat rabbits.
Gary Anderson, a UMaine Extension animal and bio-sciences specialist, authored Backyard Production of Meat Rabbits in Maine. Topics in the 15-page bulletin include the Maine environment, breeds and selection, reproduction, health management, predator control, market outlets and promotions, dressing out a rabbit fryer and recipes.
The popularity of raising domestic meat rabbits is growing in Maine, Anderson says, adding that benefits include nutritious food at a relatively low cost, potential for extra income and an educational experience for the family.
More information, bulletin copies for $1.50 each and free downloads are available from the UMaine Extension Publication Catalog or by contacting the UMaine Extension Publications Office at 207.581.3792 or firstname.lastname@example.org.


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9/14/2009 2:41:00 PM
O2 launches unlimited internet PAYG tariff
O2 has announced a new PAYG tariff, ‘text and web’, which will allow customers unlimited text messages and web access.
The new tariff will be available across the range of O2 PAYG handsets and for the first month, will be offered at £15 a month. After the 31 October, customers will have to top up £30 a month to take advantage of the offer.
O2 head of pay and go propositions, Jean-Michel Maltais, said: ‘Our customers are connecting with people more and more through social networks and need constant access to online sites, so we’ve built Text & Web with them in mind.
‘The unlimited web access means interacting with the internet is now even easier - they also get a rich text allowance which offers great value.’


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Luxury goods group Kering joined competitors in defying concerns of waning demand in China, as momentum at its powerhouse Gucci slowed slightly in the fourth quarter but still outperformed most other fashion brands.
It was probably inevitable given the publicity she received in May for the Meghan Markle wedding dress, but Givenchy artistic director Clare Waight Keller was named womenswear designer of the year on Monday evening.
Milan prosecutors have wrapped up their probe into alleged tax evasion of around 1 billion euros ($1.13 billion) by fashion group Gucci, paving the way for a formal request for a trial, a judicial source said on Tuesday.
The head of Gucci has reassured shop staff over a looming slowdown in the pace of sales growth after a revenue explosion at the Kering-owned label, according to an internal video message seen by Reuters.
The Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana has re-elected Carlo Capasa as its president for a two-year term. This is the third time that Capasa has been elected as president of the Camera, Italian fashion's governing body.


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Blockchain innovator SImple Blockchain Applications (SIMBA) has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I grant by the U.S. Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office (AFRSO) to develop next-generation critical mission technology and digitally empowered supply chains. The solution is intended to give the Air Force the capabilities to manufacture, test and deploy sophisticated aircraft parts and other weaponry on-demand using advanced 3D printing supported and secured by blockchain. If successful, the Plymouth, Indiana-based business could be awarded up to $1 million in additional funding to develop further and commercialize the technology.
For the project, SIMBA teamed up with a California woman-owned startup called Steel Modular, known for turning underutilized shipping containers into customized buildings. The duo will seek to create a self-contained, mobile 3D manufacturing facility housed in a repurposed container. SIMBA said each 20- or 40-foot disposable receptacle would be equipped with all of the components and resources necessary for secure metal and fiber additive manufacturing (AM), final machining, an inspection of finished products, and communications. Moreover, the mobile 3D manufacturing units could be climate controlled to comfort and protect military personnel and equipment. Since the containers are designed to be transported virtually anywhere with their contents, they are ideal for AFRSO’s high-tech, battle-ready needs.
According to SIMBA, the solution includes blockchain to secure conversations and information critical to manufacturing specific parts and will support the Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD)’s strategy to make engineering practices digital. The solution is expected to accelerate the AFRSO’s ability to produce tooling, fixtures, support equipment, and aircraft parts on forward-operating locations and bases worldwide.
The 90-day project dubbed “RAD2 CAM-MCB” was awarded on March 8, 2021. It will determine the feasibility of deploying the mobile, self-contained 3D printing facilities to austere locations such as battlefields to support the warfighter within a rapid, austere, and controlled supply chain environment and in terms of deployability, functionality, affordability, and eco-friendly design. The Air Force is looking to lean into commercial off-the-shelf technology already used in private sector maintenance and manufacturing organizations and build collaborations, stated the company.
SIMBA Co-founder and CEO Joel Neidig said the project’s ultimate goal is to leverage AM so the Air Force can design and produce parts in days rather than months, respond faster to combat equipment needs on bases and overseas battlefields. It will also help backfill parts for aging but still serviceable planes for which there are no commercially available replacement parts. He also revealed that the project would enable and safeguard the digital supply chain, backed by SIMBA’s blockchain technology, which ensures data integrity and protects against tampering intellectual property and communications. Sophisticated hackers are a genuine threat, he went on, but deploying SIMBA globally and on a distributed, decentralized basis “provides an unhackable barrier” and “protects supply chain governance.”
The serial entrepreneur leads a company that is gaining big since its debut in 2017. After emerging as a spin-off out decades-old manufacturing solution provider Indiana Technology and Manufacturing Companies (ITAMCO), SIMBA has helped develop a secure, unhackable messaging and transaction platform for the US military that keeps the Air Force ready for battle thanks to its blockchain innovations. In 2020, the startup beat 16 finalists, including Stratasys and Boeing, during the U.S. Air Force’s first-ever Advanced Manufacturing Olympics and won the gold medal, along with $100,000, and has ensured projects with some of the most renowned companies worldwide, including Microsoft, Dow, and Ernst & Young.
Considered a game-changing technology, blockchain solutions have proven ideal to mitigate current risk in supply chains by improving traceability, organization and assuring the provenance of parts. More commonly known as the core technology behind cryptocurrencies, blockchain for AM can lead to a more secure and reliable process. As the Air Force increasingly incorporates AM technologies into its part production and processes, there will be a growing demand to build a more secure and connected manufacturing infrastructure.
Servicing companies as a cloud-based, easy-to-use blockchain platform, SIMBA enables users across various skillsets to implement decentralized applications, or dapps, that allow secure, direct connections between users and providers, eliminating third parties. Once stored on blockchain, data can’t be changed or deleted, creating a trust factor not afforded by other data sharing and storage solutions. SIMBA’s platform is increasingly becoming the “go-to” solution for the DoD’s AM needs.
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SIS and Playtech Enhance Betting Landscape with Groundbreaking Esports Offering
SIS, a leading esports betting content provider, has forged a strategic partnership with Playtech, the world’s largest online gaming software supplier, to offer its state-of-the-art esports betting products on Playtech platforms.
Expanding the Horizon: SIS and Playtech Partnership
SIS, an acclaimed leader in esports betting, announced its agreement with Playtech, a global frontrunner in online gaming software, to integrate SIS’s extensive esports offering, featuring over 150,000 annual events from ebasketball and esoccer, into Playtech’s online and retail betting platforms.
Enriching Playtech’s Portfolio
Through this collaboration, Playtech will enrich its portfolio with SIS’s end-to-end Competitive Gaming solution, fully developed in-house with a focus on integrity. As the largest online gaming software supplier globally, Playtech significantly strengthens its offering, providing innovative content and solutions to the industry’s top operators.
SIS Competitive Gaming, a product awarded the Esports Integrity Commission’s (ESIC) Gold Standards, ensures unmatched levels of integrity and safety in esports betting. Each event features live commentary and on-screen graphics, including unique betting prompts, offering a comprehensive betting experience.
Insights from SIS
Andy Kelly, Head of Commercial Partnerships at SIS, highlighted the significance of this partnership: “SIS and Playtech have a long and successful history through our racing and numbers products. We are excited to further strengthen this relationship with the inclusion of SIS Competitive Gaming. Playtech customers will now have access to our market-leading offering of competitive esoccer and ebasketball contests, promising high margins and unparalleled integrity. The product will be launched both online and through Playtech SSBTs, including full data and streaming capabilities.”
This partnership is a testament to the growing prominence of esports in the betting world. The integration of SIS Competitive Gaming with Playtech platforms opens new avenues for esports betting enthusiasts, offering innovative and secure betting solutions.
This expanded cooperation underscores both companies’ commitment to delivering high-quality content and services, enhancing customer trust and satisfaction in the rapidly evolving esports betting landscape.


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The rumor mill is telling us we should be expecting small redesigns for the iPad Air and iPad mini, and that Apple is working on an iMac with an iPad Pro design aesthetic. But we may have to wait a bit longer before these new devices actually launch.
According to a new report from DigiTimes, we may see the rumored 10.8-inch iPad Air (which may switch to USB-C!), the 8.x-inch iPad mini, and a redesigned 23-inch iMac launch before the end of this year. Unfortunately the report can only give us “second half” of 2020, so there’s no reason to circle a date on the calendar just yet. And while this may cast some doubt on any potential announcements rumored for WWDC 2020 (which starts on Monday, June 22), that doesn’t necessarily mean we won’t hear anything about new hardware at the developers conference.
It is possible that Apple could unveil these new products, especially considering the company is introducing new screen sizes to the mix. And just because Apple is planning to launch them later in the year doesn’t automatically suggest they won’t unveil anything later this month.
Especially when you consider the fact that the second half of 2020 starts just two weeks after WWDC 2020 wraps up.
Here’s the important bit from the report:
Apple’s new offerings for second-half 2020 are likely to include a 10.8-inch iPad Air and a 23-inch iMac device, with prospects to also release an 8.x-inch iPad mini and 12.9-inch iPad Pro with mini LED display in the first half of 2021, said the sources.
Apple is also expected to enlarge the size of 2020 iPad Air to 10.8-inch compared to the 10.2-inch one launched in 2019, said the sources, adding that volume production of the new iPad Air is to kick off in the third quarter 2020.
Major panel suppliers for the planned 10.8-inch iPad Air include LG Display, BOE Technology and Sharp, with Radiant being the sole BLU supplier, the sources added.
You may have noticed that DigiTimes is claiming here that the iPad Air, in its current form, has a 10.2-inch display, which is obviously not accurate. The iPad Air has a 10.5-inch screen, and it’s the entry-level iPad that has a 10.2-inch screen. As MacRumors points out, it also adds to the confusion whether or not this new 10.8-inch iPad is going to be a follow-up to the current iPad, or a new iPad Air model.
An initial rumor regarding these new iPads suggested that the new iPad mini, with an estimated screen size somewhere in the 8-inch range, would launch in 2021, while the 10.8-inch tablet would arrive before the end of 2020. So it all feels up in the air right now.


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UK car sales have slumped to the lowest level since 1992.
New data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed the biggest slump in new cars since the second world war – despite the rise in electric cars.
Sales dropped by 29% to 1.63m. The main factor in the decline was the first lockdown where car showrooms were forced to close.
Mike Hawes, the chief executive of SMMT, said: “2020 will be seen as a ‘lost year’ for Automotive, with the sector under pandemic-enforced shutdown for much of the year and uncertainty over future trading conditions taking their toll. However, with the rollout of vaccines and clarity over our new relationship with the EU, we must make 2021 a year of recovery. With manufacturers bringing record numbers of electrified vehicles to market over the coming months, we will work with government to encourage drivers to make the switch, while promoting investment in our globally-renowned manufacturing base – recharging the market, industry and economy.”
Sales in electric cars have almost trebled this year whilst sales of petrol and diesel cars have plunged. Demand for battery electric vehicles increased by 185.9% to 108,205 units. Sales of plug-in hybrids increased by 91.2% to 66,877.
The SMMT explained for the continuing demand for battery and hybrid vehicles: “Market share for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) continued to grow significantly, up 122.4% and 76.9% respectively.
“BEVs recorded their third highest ever monthly share of registrations at 9.1%, while PHEV share increased to 6.8% – a combined total of more than 18,000 new zero-emission capable cars joining Britain’s roads.”
Norway has become the first country in the world where the sale of electric cars has overtaken those powered by petrol, diesel and hybrid engines.


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Kawhi Leonard Naturally Did Not Celebrate His Max Deal
The Spurs inked the star forward to a five-year, $90 million-plus max extension this summer. As one might expect, the famously-stoic Leonard says the new contract was in no way a cause for celebration.
Nike x LeBron James Officially Unveil the Nike LeBron 13 (KICKS)
The brand and the man officially unveiled the 13th signature sneaker for King James, which hits retail worldwide on October 10.
WATCH: Stephen Curry Asks for Hi-Five With Three-Pointer Still in the Air
New season, same result: the Golden State Warriors are still winning, and Stephen Curry continues to put on a dazzling show.
SLAM Fresh 50 – 2016
The Class of 2016 has been highly heralded for years, with many comparing it to the Class of 2013.
SLAM 192 is On Sale Now!
The ever-transcendent LeBron James covers our new issue.
Derrick Rose Preparing for 2017 Free Agency
With all the big money coming into the League, D-Rose has his financial future on his mind.
Mo Williams: LeBron James’ Blessing Needed to Play for Cavs
Bron is the de-facto GM.
Report: Kevin Durant Considering Lakers if He Leaves OKC
The unending speculation continues.


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Purchase / NY. (pci) PepsiCo Inc. reported results for the first quarter 2020 and provided a 2020 business update. «Our sympathies go out to all affected by Covid-19 and we thank all those working to keep people safe through this crisis. I also want to personally thank every one of our associates for their tireless efforts to serve customers, consumers and communities with much needed food and beverages during these uncertain times. And to support our communities, PepsiCo launched an initiative to contribute more than USD 50 million focused on serving nutritious meals to people impacted by Covid-19 and providing vital support such as protective gear for healthcare workers, as well as testing and screening services. From community relief efforts to making, moving, and selling our products, PepsiCo employees around the world overcame immense challenges and disruptions. Our first quarter results reflect these efforts and the agility of our business which delivered high single-digit net revenue growth,» said PepsiCo Chairman and CEO, Ramon Laguarta.
«This gives us confidence that the investments behind our Faster, Stronger and Better framework are working – as we invest in our brands, supply chain and go-to-market systems, manufacturing capacity, capabilities and culture, and our society by integrating purpose into everything we do.
«I am also pleased to announce that we closed our highly strategic acquisition of Rockstar Energy Beverages and have entered into a national agreement to be the exclusive distributor of Bang Energy drinks in the United States. Together, these brands coupled with Mountain Dew, position PepsiCo to better participate and capture its fair share within an attractive and highly profitable category.
«Despite a strong first quarter, there is still a great deal of uncertainty that exists in relation to Covid-19, including how geographies, retail channels and consumer behaviors will evolve over time. Due to this uncertainty, the Company’s previous financial outlook regarding fiscal year 2020 is no longer applicable. However, with a strong balance sheet, highly cash generative business and ample liquidity, we believe we have adequate flexibility to meet the needs of our business and return cash to shareholders.
«With a strong portfolio of brands in attractive categories, an agile supply chain and flexible go-tomarket systems, we are successfully managing through the complexities of today and building competitive advantages to emerge an even stronger company in the future.» For further details please read PepsiCo’s PDF file below (295 KB).20200428-PEPSICO-Q1-2020


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myTukar has partnered with Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (DMSB), a subsidiary of MBM Resources Berhad (MBMR) to enhance the used car selling process, making it hassle-free. DMSB is the sole authorised dealership of Perodua and Hino in the country. Through the partnership myTukar will facilitate a smooth experience for all Daihatsu customers to sell their used cars. With its parent company MBM Resources Berhad (MBMR), it is a complete automotive group in trading, manufacturing and assembly.
Commenting on the strategic partnership, Derrick Eng, CEO of myTukar said, “The collaboration will leverage myTukar’s proprietary technology-enabled platform to speed up the selling process of used cars for all Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers. With this partnership, we want to provide Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers a one-stop platform to sell their old cars and get a new one in return, instantly and transparently.” The partnership is anticipated to positively impact between 300 and 500 customers monthly.
Moving forward, myTukar will be a trade-in partner for Daihatsu Malaysia Group, whose partners and customers will now get to enjoy and experience a hassle-free process in selling their cars. This experience will cover inspection services, collection, settlement and a quicker, smoother payment process. Derrick added “We believe this partnership will kick start a new phase for the brand, as the enhancement of the purchasing journey is set to boost the sales of new car purchases under Daihatsu Malaysia Group.” myTukar will also be supplying certified inspectors to perform on-demand vehicle inspection for Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers.
Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu Malaysia Group said, “With myTukar’s comprehensive and intuitive platform, customers with a used car that are looking to sell it and buy a new vehicle within our group will find the process to be smooth sailing.”
This enhancement to the used car purchasing process will create strong remarketing channels that will maximise trade-in value, directly increasing profitability. As a result of strengthening the remarketing channels, the purchasing process is set to become more transparent, opening more digital channels for the sales process of both new and used cars, for all MBMR automotive brands.
myTukar is currently spearheading an expansion into the Asia Pacific region. Aiming to onboard more used car dealerships, myTukar is in the midst of building a more inclusive used car financing system that rides on AI-driven lending metrics. To find out more information on myTukar and this partnership, please visit https://mytukar.com/


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Perfecta Products on Tuesday introduced the Zim's Advanced Cold Sore kit to its line of topical skincare, lip care and pain relief products.
The National Advertising Division referred to the Federal Trade Commission advertising claims made by Fiore RX, for its Antifungal Nail Lacquer after the company failed to respond to an NAD inquiry.
Erba Vita announced its entry into the U.S. market with a line of supplements, including Propolis, a resinous material collected by honeybees from tree buds and other plant sources shown to benefit the immune system.
Hebron USA on Monday announced the launch of the Florax DS, a line of ready-to-drink probiotics that doesn't require refrigeration.
Tom’s of Maine, a maker of natural personal care products, has announced the return of its Propolis & Myrrh Gingermint baking soda toothpaste.
Hebron U.S.A. last week introduced a brand popular in Brazil into the U.S. market at the ECRM Cough & Cold and Allergy EPPS.


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Venture capitalist Kevin O'Leary explains that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies make up 20% of his portfolio.
In an interview with CNBC, O'Leary compared owning bitcoin to using products from big tech companies like Google and Microsoft, noting that it's all software. He also acknowledged that he has softened his stance on digital currencies and is an advocate for the industry.
In advocating for cryptocurrencies, O'Leary called on the U.S. to support the industry in order to catch up with countries like Canada. In particular, he noted that policies should be put in place.
"I have millions of dollars. Twenty percent of my portfolio right now is cryptocurrency and blockchain. So we have to support this initiative and be political leaders. Because right now the world is waiting. We are far behind politically for this industry that is going to lead the world in financial services. We need to move forward."
Shark Tank Celebrity Doubles Cryptocurrency Assets
Kevin O'Leary, known as "Shark Tank," announced in December 2021 that 10% of his portfolio was in cryptocurrencies, and then announced his intention to double his stake. Earlier, O'Leary claimed that the lack of a clear regulatory perspective prevented him from fully starting to use cryptocurrencies.
He notes that when the environment is favorable, he will convert a large cash position to stablecoin.
The U.S. is increasingly turning to cryptocurrency regulation
O'Leary's concerns about regulations came after President Joe Biden signed an executive order on cryptocurrencies. The order was intended to clarify the government's direction on digital currencies.
The executive order will focus on elements of consumer protection, financial stability, illicit activity, U.S. competitiveness, financial inclusion and responsible innovation. Meanwhile, Senator Cynthia Lummis is working on a bill that would outline how cryptocurrencies would be integrated into the traditional financial industry. While the cryptocurrency advocate did not provide any timeline, he said the legislation is almost ready to go.
Interestingly, Jan van Eck, CEO of global investment management firm VanEck, warned that lawmakers' involvement in cryptocurrency regulation could disrupt the industry by creating unnecessary obstacles.
Disclaimer: What is written here is not investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments are high-risk investments. Each investment decision is the responsibility of the individual. Finally, Koinfinans and the author of this content are not responsible for individual investment decisions.


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Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Go Live at Lewes Ferry Terminal
Stations Operational and Open to the Public; First Customer Powers-up
(Lewes, Delaware) Today, Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) officials announced that the two electric vehicle charging stations at the Lewes Terminal of the Cape May – Lewes Ferry are “open for business.” The DRBA received the charging stations through a collaborative research program agreement between the University of Delaware (UD) and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). The Program, “Charging-Up Delaware” is designed to promote a network of charging stations to facilitate long-distance trips with electric vehicles in the State of Delaware.
“The charging stations are really convenient and easy to use,” said Laura Trethewey of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, who was the first customer to use the charging station. “It’s a great service for both locals and Ferry customers who are looking for a place to recharge their electric vehicle.”
The Level 2 charging stations, which are located in the public parking lot near the passenger terminal building, are available during the Cape May – Lewes Ferry’s business hours. The DRBA maintenance department installed both the charging stations as well as the terminal signage directing electric vehicle owners to their location. These stations are available at no charge, on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Charging-Up Delaware program is designed to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles by removing a significant obstacle to the adoption of electric cars: “range anxiety.” Potential buyers may hesitate to purchase the vehicles for fear that their battery will run out of charge beyond the range of a charging station. Based on studies by UD and other EV research institutions, placing charging stations at key locations will encourage use of electric vehicles, whether used to recharge, or simply to lower anxiety by knowing they are available if needed.
“The Ferry is already a tourism magnet, helping more than a million people a year cross the Bay or visit its shoreline,” said Heath Gehrke, Director of Ferry Operations. “We are happy our full-service Lewes Terminal now provides the owners of electric vehicles with a bayfront haven during their coastal Delaware visit.”
About the Cape May-Lewes Ferry
The Cape May – Lewes Ferry is owned and operated by the Delaware River and Bay Authority, a bi-state governmental agency created by Compact in 1962. The Ferry is open year-round and has carried more than 43 million passengers since its inception on July 1, 1964. In 2014, the ferry service, which connects Victorian Cape May, New Jersey, and historic Lewes, Delaware, transported approximately 275,000 vehicles and nearly 1 million passengers. For schedule, rates and other program information, please visit the ferry’s website at www.CMLF.com, or call toll free, 800-643-3779. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @CMLFerry.
Photo Caption: Ms. Laura Trethewey who works at the Lewes Automall, charges her 2015 Chevrolet Volt, becoming the first person to use the new Electric Vehicle Charging Station at the Lewes Ferry Terminal.
PDF of Press Release


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In that time frame, it's been purchased and used by hundreds of millions of people and powered computers numbering in the billions.
It's also brought in billions in revenue for Microsoft — in fact, Microsoft would nab pretty high spot on the Fortune 500 with Windows alone.
We've rounded up the best numbers and comparisons for getting an idea of just how big Windows really is.
During the Windows XP era, Microsoft had near-complete domination of the PC operating system market. Amazingly, those numbers didn't even include a huge portion of Windows users. 24 million gamers purchased Windows devices in the form of the original Xbox, which ran a modified version of the Windows NT kernel from Windows 2000.
Get the latest Microsoft stock price here.


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Technology group Wärtsilä will partner with Korean shipping giant Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) in a decarbonisation-focused effort to develop ammonia-fuelled vessels for future newbuild projects.
Having already tested an auxiliary engine running with a 70% ammonia fuel mix, Wärtsilä aims to have an engine concept capable of 100% ammonia by 2023.
Stating that ‘decarbonisation has become the industry’s goal’, Östen Lindell, Sales Director, Wärtsilä Marine Power, said, “We at Wärtsilä are committed to doing everything possible to achieve this ambition.”
“The adoption of a new generation of carbon-free fuels is central to a decarbonised future for shipping,” he added.
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On a significant development front, the Indian government has taken a proactive step towards promoting and strengthening the turmeric industry in the country. In a recent announcement, the formation of the National Turmeric Board has been declared. This move is aimed at harnessing the potential of the turmeric sector and ensuring its global dominance. The establishment of this board signifies the government’s commitment to the growth and development of the turmeric industry, which holds immense economic and cultural significance in India.
The Need for a National Turmeric Board
The decision to create a National Turmeric Board has been prompted by various factors, including:
Economic Significance: it is a vital cash crop in India, contributing significantly to the country’s agricultural revenue. By forming the National Turmeric Board, the government seeks to maximize the economic benefits of this sector.
Quality Assurance: To maintain the quality and standards of turmeric products, it is essential to have a dedicated body that oversees production, processing, and marketing. The National Turmeric Board will play a pivotal role in ensuring quality control.
Also Read: Dry rose petals in Bareilly
Global Competition: India faces stiff competition in the global turmeric market. By establishing this board, the government aims to enhance India’s competitiveness and increase its share in the global turmeric trade.
Coordination with Spices Board: The National Turmeric Board will work closely with the Spices Board and other relevant government agencies to streamline efforts for the betterment of the turmeric sector. This collaboration will result in more efficient policies and initiatives.
Research and Development: The board will invest in research and development to improve turmeric cultivation techniques, enhance yield, and promote sustainable farming practices. This will benefit both farmers and consumers.
Quality Certification: Ensuring that turmeric products meet international quality standards is a priority. The National Turmeric Board will implement certification and quality control mechanisms to boost the export potential of Indian turmeric.
Market Access and Promotion: Facilitating market access for Indian turmeric in various countries and promoting its health benefits will be part of the board’s efforts. This will help expand the reach of Indian turmeric products globally.
Benefits for Farmers and the Turmeric Industry
The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is expected to bring about several benefits:
Empowering Farmers: By providing technical guidance, access to resources, and fair pricing, the board will empower turmeric farmers across the country, improving their livelihoods.
Increased Exports: Through quality enhancement and international marketing, Indian turmeric is likely to witness increased demand in global markets, thereby boosting exports and foreign exchange earnings.
Health and Wellness Promotion: it is renowned for its health benefits. The board’s efforts in promoting these benefits will not only drive demand but also contribute to a healthier society.
Economic Growth: A thriving turmeric sector can contribute significantly to the Indian economy, generating employment opportunities and improving the socio-economic conditions of the regions where it is cultivated.
Challenges and Future Prospects: While the establishment of the National Turmeric Board holds immense promise, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that may arise during its implementation:
Market Fluctuations: it prices can be volatile due to various factors, including weather conditions and global market trends. The board will need to use strategies to shield farmers from these fluctuations.
Research and Innovation: Continuous research and innovation are crucial for the sustained growth of the turmeric sector. The board should ensure that adequate resources and support are provided for ongoing advancements in cultivation and processing.
Climate Change: Climate change poses a significant threat to agricultural practices. The board must encourage and support climate-resilient farming techniques to mitigate potential losses.
Compliance with International Standards: Meeting international quality standards and regulations is vital for exporting turmeric. The board should work closely with farmers and processors to ensure compliance.
Promotion and Marketing: Effective marketing and branding of Indian turmeric products are essential to compete on the global stage. The board should collaborate with industry players to create a strong, unified identity for Indian turmeric. In the long term, the National Turmeric Board is expected to drive transformative changes in the turmeric industry. It has the potential to turn India into a global hub for turmeric production, processing, and export. By addressing challenges head-on and leveraging the strengths of the sector, the board can help secure a prosperous future for both turmeric farmers and the country as a whole.
Diversification of Agriculture: The board’s efforts to boost the turmeric sector serve as a model for diversifying Indian agriculture. By focusing on high-value crops like turmeric, the government can reduce dependence on traditional crops and enhance rural incomes.
Empowering Rural Communities: its cultivation is a source of livelihood for countless rural communities. The National Turmeric Board’s initiatives will empower these communities by providing them with the resources and knowledge needed to thrive.
Sustainable Agriculture: The board’s emphasis on research and development can lead to more sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. This aligns with global trends toward environmentally responsible agriculture.
Global Export Hub: With its commitment to quality control and international marketing, India has the potential to become a global export hub for turmeric and turmeric products. This, in turn, can boost the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Health and Wellness Promotion: it recognizes health benefits can contribute to a healthier population. The board’s focus on promoting these benefits aligns with growing global interest in natural and holistic wellness solutions.
Global Leadership: As India establishes itself as a global leader in the turmeric industry, it can set standards and best practices for the sector worldwide, influencing not only production and trade but also research and development.
Conclusion: The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is a promising development for India’s turmeric industry. With its clear objectives, focus on quality, and commitment to promoting turmeric on the global stage, this board has the potential to revolutionize the sector. By overcoming challenges and fostering innovation, the board can lead the way in making India a dominant force in the global turmeric market, bringing prosperity to farmers and contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth. As the board begins its journey, the future of the turmeric sector in India looks brighter than ever.
The formation of the National Turmeric Board is a commendable step by the Indian government towards realizing the full potential of the turmeric industry. With a clear focus on quality, research, and global outreach, this board is poised to elevate India’s status as a dominant player in the global turmeric market. Moreover, it promises to be a game-changer for the millions of turmeric farmers who rely on this golden spice for their livelihoods.


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While Japanese gamers recently celebrated to learn that Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is set to arrive in stores on Sept. 2 (meaning, thankfully, that’s one fewer that would’ve required waiting in mile-long TGS lines), the good news isn’t without the bad…or awkward. It’s not necessarily bad news about the game itself, but the uncomfortable social spat between publisher Konami and director Hideo Kojima is becoming unsettling.
But in what may be a legal move or may be high school bullshit, the Kojima Productions logo and the phrase “A Hideo Kojima Game” have been removed from the official Japanese Metal Gear Solid V website.
But it doesn’t stop in Japan, apparently. While typing this up, I realized it’s happening everywhere. So there’s that.
What are your thoughts on this? Is a simple disagreement becoming a war of words and passive-aggressive slaps? Something more? Something less?


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UK tech investment has bounced back from Covid-19 in the first half of 2021, setting the scene for a record-breaking year. Startups and scaleups raised £13.5bn during the six-month period, almost three times what was invested in the first six months of 2020, creating 20 new tech ‘unicorns’ (companies worth more than $1bn) in the process.
The UK is now home to more than 100 tech unicorns and 153 ‘futurecorns’ – high growth companies with the potential to become unicorns. Also grazing in the UK’s metaphorical tech paddock are 12 ‘decacorns’ (companies worth more than $10bn), of which seven have been created in 2021.
For Tech Nation’s Head of Insights George Windsor, who compiled the figures with Dealroom and LocalGlobe for the UK’s Digital Economy Council ahead of London Tech Week 2021, the UK’s admirable VC haul wasn’t entirely unexpected.
“We are in the midst of the most astonishingly high growth ever seen in UK tech.”
Exogenous shocks in recent history suggest that the UK would enjoy a strong first half of 2021 as it began to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. The 2008 Financial Crisis and double-dip recession of 2012 (later resurfacing in 2017) all led to temporary increases in VC investment, but the recoveries that followed paled in comparison to H1 2021’s boom, explains George.
“We are in the midst of the fastest and most astonishingly high growth we’ve ever seen in the UK tech ecosystem,” he says, adding, “so much so that when it comes to the size of VC investment rounds, we are going to have to re-evaluate what we think of as being significant.”
VC investment in UK startups soared during H1 2021 to £13.5bn (around $18bn)
Enter the ‘mega round’
Investment into UK tech in H1 has almost exclusively been made into later-stage companies in the form of ‘mega rounds’ valued at £72m ($100m) or more. London has attracted the bulk of the investment overall, followed by Bristol, Birmingham and Cambridge. Tech companies in Scotland have raised £53.3m so far this year, and those in Northern Ireland have attracted £18.8m.
Notable mega-rounds in the half-year period included neobank (and Tech Nation Future Fifty 8.0 alumnus) Revolut (£577m); cybersecurity platform Synk (£289m) and online events platform Hopin (£289m). However, the largest belonged to Manchester-based car sales platform Cinch, which raised a £1bn round in May. For George, the “unprecedented and astronomical” achievement indicates that UK VC is pulling away from Europe and edging closer towards the US when it comes to deal size.
‘Mega rounds’ are changing the face of the UK’s tech sector
“We are starting to see a step-change in how the UK is being viewed on the global stage,” George says. “The UK is a mature ecosystem that’s growing like an extremely nascent one, which is incredibly interesting.”
What’s more, UK VCs have raised record amounts (around $7.1m) of dry powder (unallocated capital available to spend) investment, so the boom could continue into the second half of the year. “We may see VC investment fall back, but it doesn’t seem like that in terms of the broader ecosystem conditions,” George says.
“We are starting to see a step change in how the UK is being viewed on the global stage.”
Impact on tech ecosystems
Whatever happens in the next six months, the £13.5bn pledged in H1 will take some time to have a tangible impact on scaling the UK tech ecosystem and won’t materialise immediately. The investment will be spent in areas conducive to growth – such as R&D and international expansion – leading to positive outcomes over a period of time.
It will also create new jobs and encourage the development of skills, contributing to the growth of companies while opening the door for people to work in the tech sector. Data shows that back-end development, sales and marketing will prove the most in-demand roles as companies recruit to develop their products and services.
The investment pledged in H1 will translate into new job roles in time
Clearly, VC-backed companies have a duty to generate a return for their investors, but George believes that those participating in mega-rounds should also reconsider what areas they want to make an impact in the tech ecosystem.
Individual employees that benefit from new wealth creation have the option of reinvesting back into local seed-stage ecosystems or even forming new impact tech companies that lean towards purpose and have a more favourable impact for a greater number of people.
“Companies now have an individual responsibility to think about where they want to make an impact.”
“A company’s individual responsibility is to return a fund or payout dividends to their shareholders,” says George. “After that, it’s to think about where they want to make an impact in terms of their purpose, as well as wealth creation and achieving the sort of exit that they want to achieve.”
With seed-stage investment falling as a proportion of all investment in recent years, UK tech would benefit from more money being re-invested into building local-seed stage systems (versus something else), but George is keen to see a balance. “The UK is still fairly embryonic and we still have a long way to go in understanding what sort of a balance we want,” he says.
Stuck in the middle
If mega-rounds are fuelling late-stage tech companies all the way up to decacorns, and their employees redistribute wealth at the opposite end of the scale, George suggests that the sector could switch its focus on helping the “misunderstood, poorly-assessed middle ground that gets the least attention.” He defines this as scaling companies with between 50 – 100 employees that are raising Series A rounds.
“These mid-stage scaleups have firm foundations in place, so they aren’t starting from the lowest of bases but have lots of growth to go,” says George. “That growth is going to be potentially painful because they’re doing it so fast, and that’s where we need to take a deeper look.”
UK VC investment is anything but dull as we head into the second half of 2021. With potential new mega-rounds on the horizon and the real-world effects of H1’s deals yet to materialise, it could usher in a fascinating period for UK tech that leads to an unprecedented opportunity for people to join the burgeoning sector.
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Halle Berry Chooses Organic Clothing For Upcoming Baby
Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry recently announced that she is expecting her first child with model Gabriel Aubry. Wasting no time getting ready for the new addition to the family, Berry was recently spotted picking out some organic baby clothing.
The organic baby scene has received a lot of press over the past year; no doubt in large part thanks to the immense amount of celebrity parents getting behind the industry and choosing the environmentally-friendly wear over traditional garb. Berry chose an organic pant and tee set from Baby Brown’s. To see their full selection, hit the jump for more!
Thanks to Erin for the tip!


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By Rosemary Iwunze
Royal Exchange General Insurance Company (REGIC) has declared a Gross Written Premium, GWP, of N14.20 billion for the financial year ended December 31, 2022.
This was disclosed by the Chairman of the company, Mr. Ike Chioke, during the company’s 15th Annual General Meeting in Lagos.
Chioke also stated that the accounts, which have been approved by the National Insurance Commission, NAICOM, show that the company is on the path of profitability and sustained growth, as all financial indices are positive for the company and future results will position Royal Exchange General Insurance Company as a profitable enterprise in the insurance industry in Nigeria.
A further review of the results shows that the total net claims paid to policyholders increased to N1.97 billion, representing a 43percent growth in paid claims, when compared to the 2021 figure. Underwriting profit increased marginally by six percent from N1.70 billion in 2021 to N1.81 billion for the period under review.
Speaking on the performance of the company, Chioke said: “During the year under review, the company carried on with consolidating our plans and strategies, deploying resources to ensure we remain on the right path towards growth and profitability. Going forward, we will continue to invest in our people, facilities, and ICT infrastructure to deepen market penetration in the direct and retail segments, enhance our product offerings in the market, grow our Agric portfolio and leverage business analytics for strategy and decision making”.
Also speaking, Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu, said that despite the very harsh operating environment, the company was able to grow its topline figures and maintain its leadership in key corporate accounts, participating in large-ticket insurance transactions, its renewed focus on the retail markets – which continues to be a growth market – and agriculture insurance, which is beginning to gain traction in the insurance market in Nigeria.


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AFTA is delighted by South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba’s announcement, that the new immigration regulations requiring travellers under the age of 18 to travel with unabridged birth certificate or equivalent from their country of origin, has been deferred until June 1, 2015.
The deferment comes following months of fervent lobbying by ASATA and its trade association partners in South Africa, including meetings with both the Minister and Deputy Minister, letters to the Ministry and opinion pieces in the press, to raise awareness around the negative impact that these new immigration regulations could have on the travel and tourism sectors and the shortfalls in the ability of Home Affairs to meet their own objectives regarding various amendments to the Immigration Act.
AFTA Chief Executive, Jayson Westbury, recently expressed his own concerns to South African Tourism Update believing that the South African government has not effectively communicated new travel regulations to the international travel industry.
“We as the industry association have not been approached by the South African Tourism Department or anybody to articulate this to our constituency,” Westbury said.
According to Westbury, the lack of communication was a good reason for the government to delay implementing the new regulations.
“It takes a good government to realise that sometimes the best thing to do is pause while further consultation is undertaken. The South African government and ASATA have done tremendous work building the destinations brand and so it would be a shame to damage that reputation now,” Westbury said.
AFTA will do its job to support ASATA and educate the Australian travel industry and consumers about the changes before they come into effect 1 June, next year.


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Spokane's Commuter Cars Corp. showed off its 39-inch-wide Tango at the Detroit auto show last month. The electric car has two tandem seats and can travel up to 200 miles on a charge. Delivered as a kit, the car requires some final assembly. Company president Rick Woodbury says actor George Clooney was among the first Tango customers and paid $108,000 for his.
Ford intends to sell an all-electric version of the Focus starting next year, it announced at the Detroit auto show. The price will be competitive with other electric vehicles, such as rival Chevrolet's Volt, the company says. The electric version of the Focus will be built at a factory in Michigan that formerly manufactured SUVs.


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Restaurant shares are again on the menu as the reopening trade picks up steam.
Matt Maley, chief market strategist at Miller Tabak, agreed with Atlantic Equities on a type of names.
“The rally since last summer has been spectacular. The problem is that basically all of them are getting quite overbought. That probably means they’ll take a bit of a breather and then move a lot higher, but there is one exception. There’s one stock that is not highly overbought, and that’s Starbucks,” Maley advised CNBC’s “Trading Nation” on Tuesday.
Maley mentioned Starbucks took successful asserting its earnings in January however has since damaged out to a better excessive.
“This is one that has more upside movement to a group that should do well throughout the rest of the spring and summer,” he mentioned. “I want to have the one that has the most upside. For me, right now, that’s Starbucks.”
Starbucks shares have rallied 4% this week however have underperformed the S&P 500 this yr, including 6% versus the broader market’s practically 9% acquire.
Steve Chiavarone, portfolio supervisor at Federated Hermes, broke down the renewed urge for food for these shares on Tuesday.
“Humans haven’t changed. We’re still social, we want to go back out, and we’re going to,” he mentioned throughout the identical interview. “Consumers are sitting on roughly $3 trillion of excess savings. … We expect that consumers are going to refocus a lot of their wallet here, away from your home goods and spending on their homes back towards experiences, and that’s going to include restaurants, and casinos and hotels and things of that nature.”