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PLANO, Texas, Jan. 22, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Just as Americans are finalizing game day plans for Super Bowl Sunday, Frito-Lay North America today announced its inaugural U.S. Snack Index – a poll asking consumers what they plan to snack on during this year's big game.
According to retail sales data, Super Bowl Sunday is one of the single-largest retail sales days for snacks at many supermarkets. So, Frito-Lay, the division of PepsiCo producing Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos and more, is listening so it can continue to delight consumers with many snacking options.
"The Super Bowl is synonymous with enjoying snacks with friends and family," said Steven Williams, senior vice president of sales, chief commercial officer, Frito-Lay North America. "As a leader in snacking, Frito-Lay keeps its finger on the pulse of snacking, always looking at what consumers prefer. It's interesting to see how different regions and age groups snack – whether it's potato chips or tortilla chips, classic or spicy – everyone definitely approaches snacking in their own way."
Key insights from the U.S. Snack Index included:
"Super Bowl Sunday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year for snacks. It's different than other holidays we see throughout the year as consumers are most likely to be enjoying snacks specifically at home, which can mean their choices can vary from other occasions," Williams added. "At Frito-Lay, we are hyper-focused in the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl to make sure consumers can get the variety of snacks they want for game day. What better time to launch our first U.S. Snack Index and get insights into their snack plans for this major snacking event?"
For more information, visit: FritoLay.com/SnackIndex. Frito-Lay is an Official Sponsor of Super Bowl LIII.
Frito-Lay North America partnered with Morning Consult to field the Frito-Lay North America U.S. Snack Index nationally. This poll was conducted from January 8-9, 2019, among a national sample of more than 2,200 adults. The interviews were conducted online and the data were weighted to approximate a target sample based on age, race/ethnicity, gender, educational attainment and region. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points.
About Frito-Lay North America
Frito-Lay North America is the $15 billion convenient foods division of PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ: PEP), which is headquartered in Purchase, NY. Learn more about Frito-Lay at the corporate website, http://www.fritolay.com/, the Snack Chat blog, http://www.snacks.com/ and on Twitter, http://www.twitter.com/fritolay.
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $63 billion in net revenue in 2017, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker and Tropicana. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 22 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
At the heart of PepsiCo is Performance with Purpose – our fundamental belief that the success of our company is inextricably linked to the sustainability of the world around us. We believe that continuously improving the products we sell, operating responsibly to protect our planet and empowering people around the world is what enables PepsiCo to run a successful global company that creates long-term value for society and our shareholders. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.
SOURCE Frito-Lay North America


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A man in South Carolina plunked down $540 to buy out a troop’s entire stock of Girl Scout cookies so the girls could close up shop and escape the cold weather. The Scouts were stationed outside a Bilo grocery store in Mauldin, S.C.
Kayla Dillard, who manages cookie sales for Troop #1574 — the group her daughter belongs to — said in a Facebook post on Friday that the customer first arrived and bought seven boxes of Girl Scout cookies for $40 and told them to keep the change. But she told Yahoo Lifestyle “we were all in total shock” when the man returned with a new offer.
The man said, “Pack up all of your cookies. I’m taking them all so y’all can get out of this cold,” and he proceeded to buy up every last box, including Thanks a Lots, Caramel deLites, Shortbread, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, S’mores, Thin Mints and Lemonades.
“The girls were almost speechless,” Dillard told Yahoo Lifestyle. “Then they got busy trying to calculate his total.”
The final amount the man spent was $540.
“We were just thankful,” she added — but unfortunately she doesn’t know who to thank, because she never got the man’s name and he still hasn’t come forward. “He mentioned he owned several businesses,” Dillard said. “We assume he was going to give the cookies away.”
Now that Dillard’s post has gone viral, internet sleuths are hard at work trying to identify the Good Samaritan. Dillard said the man has been tagged in the post several times by people who think they know him, but his identity remains a mystery.
Others were impressed by his extraordinary kindness.
“Wow, what a great big heart he has!! Kudos to him for doing such a wonderful thing! That is something they will remember for the rest of their lives!” one person wrote.
“This generous man probably shared the cookies with nursing homes, his employees/coworkers, homeless shelters and friends,” another speculated. “He seems to be a great person with a big heart.”

domain: news


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Inner City Redevelopment Corp. recently sold the 34,486-square-foot Brooks Plaza retail building at 2303-49 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Milwaukee, to 2349 LLC for $1.1 million, or about $31.90 per square foot. The building is located at the northeast corner of King Drive and North Avenue.
The buyer plans to open a grocery store in a corner space that was formerly occupied by a Walgreens store.
The building was constructed in 1984. The sale price was considerably below the assessed value of $2.37 million, according to city records.
Tenants in the building include Time Warner Cable and a JPMorgan Chase bank branch.
NAI MLG Commercial brokers Scott Satula and Bruce Westling brokered the sale for Inner City Redevelopment Corp.
2349 LLC is led by Anup Khullar, the owner of Andy’s gas stations in the Milwaukee area. 2349 LLC plans to open a “traditional” grocery store in a 12,125-square-foot corner space that was formerly occupied by a Walgreens store, Satula said. The space was vacated when a new Walgreens store was built two years ago on the east side of King Drive between Hadley and Locust streets.
A grocery store could provide an anchor for the Bronzeville district redevelopment efforts, which withered during the Great Recession.
“That intersection for a long time has been viewed as a gateway to the Bronzeville district,” Satula said.


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Image via Electronic Recyclers
Written by Gabriel Dillard
The April issue of The Silicon Review tech magazine has named the Fresno-based Electronic Recyclers International (ERI) to its annual 30 Fastest Growing Tech Companies list for 2019.
The Silicon Review is a monthly online and print publication designed to provide high-tech news and information for its audience of business and technology professionals, including CEOs, CIOs, CTOs, IT VPs and management. Every year, they put out the list, basing it on innovative technology, market positioning, business model and likelihood for continued expansion.
“It’s an honor to be featured as one of the tech success stories in a publication that provides such a valuable resource for those interested in learning about all sectors of the technology sector,” said John Shegerian, ERI co-founder and executive chairman. “Many thanks to Silicon review for capturing our passion and innovation.”
Shegerian went on to cite industry-first robotics and A.I., and proprietary tracking software among its innovations. ERI is an electronic recycling company that de-manufactures, and refurbishes electronic devices. Founded in 2002, it has eight certified locations, serving every zip code in the U.S.


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Today’s nanotechnologies can substantially improve the properties of a wide range of products in all sectors of activity, from the manufacture of materials with ground-breaking performance to medical diagnostics and treatment—yet they raise major technological, economic, ethical, social and environmental questions. Some of the spinoffs we can expect include the emergence of new markets, job creation, improvements in quality of life and contributions to protection of the environment. The impact of nanotechnologies is already being felt in sectors as diverse as agroprocessing, cosmetics, construction, healthcare and the aerospace industry.
These new developments, which could mean exposure of a growing number of workers to these infinitesimally small particles, are of particular concern to workers in industry and staff in research laboratories. It is estimated that in 2015 about 10% of manufacturing jobs worldwide will be associated with nanotechnologies, and more than 2,000 commercial products will contain nanomaterials.
Download the report
Read the News Release


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Fashion retailer Next’s chief executive pocketed more than doubled salary of £1.74 million last year, owing to performance-related bonus that jumped to £1.02 million as the retailer’s pre-tax profits climbed 18 per cent to £505 million in the year to January 20.
The fashion retailer said that Mr. Wolfson would get £340,000 of his last year's bonus in shares, which would be deferred for two years. However, these shares would be forfeited if he leaves the company before then.
As part of company’s long-term incentive plan, Mr. Wolfson could be provided with additional free shares which could worth around £3.4 million.
The retailer improved its fashion ranges, which helped it putting an end to four years of declining sales last year. However, Mr. Wolfson has warned that the retailer could see drop in sales this year as the next Government could take drastic steps to tame the budget deficit.
Share-holders in Next will enjoy an increase of 20 per cent in dividend payment.
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Some time ago someone broke the rumor based on a Korean trademark application that soon Samsung Mobile will be releasing a smartphone running Tizen OS. Every single blog and site on the internet including Evleaks confirmed the name and reported that Samsung ZEQ will be announced at MWC 2014.
Time passed and it turns out that Samsung was denied Samsung ZEQ trademarks in both US and Korean patent offices.
The trademark rejection is a setback for Samsung’s ambitions to create its own ecosystem with Tizen. Samsung has also struggled to attract developers and partners to support Tizen, which lacks Android and iOS popularity and app diversity. Samsung has postponed the launch of its first Tizen smartphone several times.
Samsung has not commented on the trademark issue or its Tizen plans. However, some analysts believe that Samsung will not give up on Tizen easily, as it still sees it as a potential source of differentiation and innovation.


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Huawei and Apple might become the biggest rivals in less than expected, given the fact that both are the third and second largest smartphone maker in the world. And while the Cupertino firm is probably the most powerful tech giant, the Chinese company have grown so much in the recent years that its presence in the U.S. market might increase its power and importance in the phone business by large. Naturally, their flagships, Huawei P10 and iPhone 8, are expected to be most incredible smartphones in 2017. So in order to know which could be the greatest mobile device, here´s what we know so far.
Huawei P10 Rumors: Specs, Features, Release Date And Price
This promises to be one of the greatest next years since the rumors suggest that it would wear some incredible specs and features that will blow everyone´s mind. Apparently, the Huawei P10 might excel the quality of the previous model, since this flagship might have the Android 0S 7.0 Nougat, a Kirin 960 chipset, 6GB of RAM, 256GB of internal memory, an octa-core HiSilicon Hi3660 2.3ghZ CPU and Mali 6-71 GPU.
Also, it has been rumored that the Huawei P10 might have a 5-5inch touchscreen display with a 2560 x1440 resolution, in addition to a 12MP rear camera and an 8MP camera at the front to take selfies and for video chats. The most incredible details about this last feature are that the main could actually have a dual lens.
As reported in a previous article, the Huawei P10 is a mobile device that could be groundbreaking according to the latest rumors, since the smartphone could have a curved dual-edge display just as the Porsche Design Model Mate 9. This would definitely evidence Huawei´s intentions of being the most important player next year since this kind of design has only been used by the most important smartphones so far.
Also, another rumor that has been leaked about the Huawei P10 is the possibility of including a wireless charging, which would definitely turn this mobile device into something out of this world, considering that this kind of feature haven't been used by any other smartphone and the fact that is one of those things that users dream about.
Although there hasn't been an official announce of the release date, several reports estimate that this could take place in March or April next year. Also, it has been said that the Huawei P10 could by priced between $650 and $750, which would turn this mobile device into the most expensive Huawei´s phone in the history.
iPhone 8 Rumors: Specs, Features, Release Date And Price
There´s no doubt that the iPhone 8 would become one of the greatest smartphones in 2017 no matter what, given the fact that Apple has always surprised the world with incredible inventions, and next year the 10th anniversary of the first iPhone is expected to be one of the greatest moments in the company´s history.
So far, there has been a lot of rumors regarding the iPhone 8, and some of these suggest that this flagship will sport a curved OLED display, a 3D camera, and a new "all-glass" design that will turn this mobile device into a beautiful and futuristic work of art that will definitely surprised both Apple lovers and haters.
Also, the iPhone 8 could replace the home button with the Touch ID fingerprint sensor, which would be a revolutionary move that in addition to the wireless charging that could probably have; the smartphone world might be facing a device that would mark a turning point in its history. But naturally, there´s more rumors, since it's expected that the iPhone 8 could also wear a 5.8-inch display, an A11 chip, an iOS 11 software, and an Intel 7360 LTE modem.
Although it´s not known when would be the specific release date of the iPhone 8, it has been rumored that Apple could launch its flagship in September next year, since this is the month when the Cupertino company usually releases its smartphones. Regarding the price, the iPhone 8 could cost around $1,200, which is not exactly cheap but is expected to achieve a lot of sells, no matter its expensiveness.


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Jakarta, 8th September 2003
The Preparatory Meeting on Japan-Indonesia Economic Partnership
Based on the Joint Announcement by the Prime Minister of Japan and the President of the Republic of Indonesia on the Possibility of the Economic Partnership Agreement between Japan and Indonesia dated 24 June 2003, the Preparatory Meeting on Japan-Indonesia Economic Partnership was held in Tokyo on 8th September 2003. The Meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Tri Mardjoko, Director of Bilateral Cooperation I, Ministry of Industry and Trade of Indonesia and Mr. Fumio Yawata, Director of FTA/EPA Division, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, coordinating chair of Japan. The Meeting was well attended by representatives from various ministries and agencies concerned of both sides.
The representatives from both governments had good discussions on various subjects, including their basic views on FTA/EPA, each other’s on-going negotiations and consultations for FTA/EPA with third countries and their respective economic condition and trade policy.
Both sides discussed various issues, including trade in goods and services, customs procedures, movement of natural persons, intellectual property, mutual recognition/standards and conformance, investment, government procurement, cooperation (human resource development, small and medium enterprises, agriculture and fisheries, third country cooperation and others) and business environment.
The Meeting was an initial step in the process of consultations to explore the possibility of a bilateral EPA between Japan and Indonesia. The two sides reaffirmed their efforts towards continuing constructive discussions.
The meeting will be held regularly every 4 months or on the date agreed by both sides, alternately in Indonesia or in Japan.


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To celebrate the 80th anniversary of its iconic aluminum suitcase, Rimowa has unveiled an exclusive collaboration with Fendi.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of Rimowa’s emblematic line of aluminum luggage. To mark the event, Rimowa has teamed with Fendi to design an exceptional suitcase with the Roman fashion house.
Rimowa stands apart for its unyielding quest for excellence, constant innovation and impeccable craftsmanship. Now, for the first time, Rimowa has combined its savoir-faire with the inimitable style of Fendi. “Rimowa stands for design, durability and craftsmanship, and Fendi is the perfect partner with their distinctive DNA and bold creativity,” says Alexandre Arnault, co-CEO of Rimowa.
The fendi x Rimowa collection features an aluminum carry-on case with sophisticated Fendi styling details, including the emblematic Fendi double F logo in brushed aluminum that changes perspective in different lighting, as well as a web belt that runs across the case. Fendi’s artisanal savoir-faire is featured in Cuoio Romano leather handles and the black neoprene interior lining, also embossed with the double F logo. The case is a concentrate of Rimowa innovations too, fitted with the silent Multiwheel® system for optimum maneuverability and the Flex-Divider system for the most efficient possible packing.
“We are thrilled to be the first Maison in the LVMH Group to work with Rimowa, a world leader in premium luggage. This case expresses the distinctive DNA of both Maisons, resulting in a superb quality contemporary piece for both women and men,” said Pietro Beccari, President and CEO of Fendi.
The suitcase has been available since November 27th in a limited series at selected Fendi and Rimowa boutiques and on Fendi.com.


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Consumer confidence dips as Britons worry about global downturn and refrain from making big purchases
Worries about the global downturn have hit consumer confidence this month, according to a survey released today, a further sign of caution that the UK economy has slowed down in recent months.
Market research firm GfK said its consumer confidence index for October fell 2 points, down to its lowest in level in five months, with UK consumers less positive about the economic situation over the past 12 months and the coming year.
Britons were also more likely to restrain themselves from buying big ticket items such as TVs or furniture, the GfK report showed, even though they continued to be upbeat about their own current and future personal financial situation.
Shopping: Britons are currently more likely to restrain themselves from buying big ticket items such as TVs or furniture, today's GfK consumer confidence report showed
Joe Staton, head of market dynamics at GfK, said: ‘The good news on the domestic front – with households lifted by wage growth, low interest rates and near-zero inflation – is being tempered by concerns about our ability to shrug off the global downturn.'
‘Upwards momentum in the Index is also being dragged down by consumer worries about the past performance of the UK economy and expectations for the economy in the year to come.’
The GfK report comes after a separate survey yesterday by the Confederation of British Industry showed UK retail sales grew at a slower pace than anticipated in the year to October.
The CBI said some 38 per cent of retailers saw volumes up on a year ago this month, compared to 20 per cent who said they were down, giving a positive balance of just 19 per cent. That represented a slowdown from a balance of 49 per cent in September.
Less positive: GfK's onsumer confidence index dropped in the year to October
The latest Lloyds Bank Spending Power Report published this week suggested a drop in consumer confidence to its lowest level this year in September, with the proportion of people feeling that their household financial situation was comfortable also declining to hit a five-month low.
While sentiment over the future was unchanged from last month, the Lloyds Bank report said people’s perception about their personal situation and Britain’s employment situation deteriorated in September.
The evidence of consumer caution comes after the Office for National Statistics reported earlier this week that initial estimates for UK third quarter gross domestic product showed 0.5 per cent growth, down from 0.7 per cent growth in the second quarter, and lower than forecasts for 0.6 per cent.
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At the end of the last decade, there were many changes in Mumbai-based Bajaj group. In 2008, it demerged its two wheeler and finance businesses and two years later it exited scooter manufacturing to focus on motorcycles. The market valued the Bajaj group companies - Bajaj Auto, Bajaj Electricals, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Bajaj Holdings & Investment and Mukand -at around Rs 54,000 crore in 2010. Thanks to the aggressive market expansion of financial services and auto businesses, the average market value shot up to Rs 1.8 lakh crore in 2016.
Since then, it has moved up another 76 per cent to Rs 3.16 lakh crore till November 23. Flagship business Bajaj Auto registered a 14.5 per cent jump in the consolidated profit to Rs 4,800 crore in the last fiscal. Bajaj Finserv's net profit rose over 24 per cent to Rs 3,450 crore, while Bajaj Finance's profit saw exponential growth, rising 44 per cent to Rs 1,840 crore. These three together are valued about Rs 2.8 lakh crore in the market now. Analysts expect more upside as demand picks up.


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Kenya: Safaricom speeds up 4G network rollout
4 November 2016
Safaricom is betting on widening the spread of its LTE technology to drive its data services into seven more towns.
The move will leverage on 500 new 4G base stations to raise the total to 4,600 by the end of the year as data takes centre stage in the firm’s strategic positioning.
With the new development, customers in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Meru and Kisii will now have full 4G capacity. The number of counties covered by the service has increased to 30.
“Customers will be required to replace their old Sim cards to experience 4G services,” said Internet propositions manager Julius Kundu.
To drive mobile data uptake, he said, Safaricom has implemented a 36 per cent reduction in data pricing even as it continues its investment in building an advanced 2G, 3G and 4G capacities—having spent 32.13 billion upgrading the system. This included fibre-optic rollout and upgrade of its information systems.
Safaricom grew its data revenue by 59 per cent to Sh14.8 billion in 2015 with 12 million 3G mobile data users. In May 2016, the telco announced a 77 per cent increase in mobile data usage per customer as smartphone mobile ownership more than doubled.
Mobile data raised Sh6.62 billion in revenue in 2013 from Sh7.13 million users who later increased to 9.56 million in 2014 to raise revenues to Sh9.31 billion.
In addition to voice and all other 3G mobile services, the 4G system provides five times faster Internet speed on phones. It also provides faster broadband Internet access to computers and laptops linked to wireless Internet speeds—games and movies like Netflix, IP telephony, crystal clear mobile TV, video streaming and conferencing, 3D television and cloud computing.
Safaricom is also in the market with lower smartphone prices, which has been successful in driving a digital revolution in most parts of Africa, enabling more users to access the Internet at unprecedented levels.
The number of smartphone connections across the continent almost doubled in the last two years, reaching 230 million, and selling prices dropped from an average of $230 (Sh23,000) in 2012 to $160 (Sh16,000) in 2015, according to a report published by GSMA.
“Safaricom is offering smartphones starting from Sh5,999 to enable more customers to experience 4G experience and it comes with free 4GB data bundles which will expire after two days,” said Kundu.


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WASHINGTON, DC (WITN) North Carolina is paying close attention as foreign governments are considering targeting U.S. farmers as the world teeters on the edge of a trade war.
Our Washington D.C. Bureau talked with U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, who says his agency is prepared to compensate farmers if they get stung by new taxes on products sold abroad.
He says they've decided on a formula to calculate losses due to new tariffs, as opposed to regular market ups and downs, but he won't say how that safety net would work, emphasizing they want trade, not aid.
Perdue says, "That's why we hold these things in our back pocket. If need be, the president has insisted that he will protect our agricultural industry and protect farmers. They will not bear the brunt of any trade disruption."
Perdue says farmers are understandably anxious.
Possible new tariffs on American produce, a direct response to U.S. taxes on imported steel and aluminum, could take effect as soon as July first.
Europe, Canada, and Mexico have threatened to hit goods ranging from pork to maple syrup.


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Toyota’s Partnership with Suzuki Is Because of India
Toyota partnered with Suzuki and puzzled many. Many could not help but ask why.
Companies such as General Motors and Volkswagen have in the past, partnered with Suzuki. Now Toyota is doing it too. But why? Is this a trend? There is a good reason here.
According to Carbuzz, the deal will involve Toyota purchasing a small share in Susuzi and vice versa. By doing so, they can work together is penetrating new fields, which benefit them both.
Toyota says in a statement that the partnership will allow for "collaboration in new fields, including the field of autonomous driving." If successful, there is no doubt that Suzuki and Toyota can both be better off. Their collaboration will eventually lead to the building of Suzuki-badged vehicles. Toyota will have personal gains over this partnership too.
According to Automotive News, this partnership will allow Toyota to be more successful in India. At present, it is very behind compared to Suzuki and Hyundai when it comes to market share in India. The partnership can boost Toyota's presence and sales in this crucial market.
There is no secret benefit here. Even before this deal was even announced, both Toyota and Suzuki were already negotiating on how to be more successful in the Indian market. Earlier this year, Suzuki eve promised to build two Toyota-badged compact vehicles solely for the Indian market. It also promises to build a Suzuki compact SUV, but in a Toyota plant. Toyota and Suzuki also promised to collaborate and promote hybrid vehicles for Toyota.
In other words, the deal is not merely for Toyota to follow some form of a trend, nor is it for Suzuki's benefit. Toyota has plenty to gain, but of course, this is not without its own hard work. Emerging markets such as India is not that hard to penetrate and be competitive in, so Suzuki will be a good mentor.
Suzuki and Toyota's alliance is raising a few eyebrows because the two did not always have a smooth relationship. As reported by Nikkei Asian Review, it can be remembered when Hiroshi Okuda became Toyota's president back in 1995, he criticized Suzuki Motor for taking advantage of the then quite favorable tax rules to boost domestic sales while putting Toyota and other big brands at a disadvantage.
Still, it can also be recalled that Toyota already saved Suzuki Motor several times. A labor dispute in 1950 almost ruined Suzuki had not Toyota extended a loan. In the 70s, when Suzuki Motor had difficulties meeting new emission standards, Toyota provided Suzuki with Daihatsu engines.


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27.06.2022 / New LCV market forecast
New LCV market forecast is formed taking into account three scripts: basic, optimistic and pessimistic.
According to all forecast scripts, Russian LCV market has been negatively affected by following factors.
After 24th February 2022 there were economic sanctions imposed against Russian Federation. They affected among other the automotive market. For example, countries which imposed sanctions prohibited the import of microelectronic devices and auto components into Russia.
Sanctions against russian lCV manufacturers
The GAZ group has been included in the USA Finance Ministry sanction list since the 6th of April 2018. Despite that, before the 25th of May 2022 there was an actual postponement allowing to the Group to work with American suppliers and their affirmed mediators according to current contracts. Since the 25th of May this postponement has been cancelled and GAZ lost access to auto components imported directly from the USA and American companies located in other countries.
On the 3rd of June 2022 EU imposed sanctions against UAZ because of their vehicles` exploitation by the Russian Armed Forces. Despite that, UAZ has been working in absence of auto components supplies from European OEM and is consequently realizing the component base replacement program.
In the end of February – beginning of March 2022 because of imposed sanctions AutoVAZ was forced to stop vehicle manufacturing due to delays in auto components supplies. Since the 6th of June 2022 LADA resumed vehicle manufacturing in basic modifications.
Stop of foreign LCVs and auto components manufacturing and import
Since February 2022 Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Mercedes-Benz etc. have stopped manufacturing on all Russian platforms and suspended news LCV and genuine auto components import. Due to logistic problems with auto components supplies Peugeot and Citroen significantly reduced manufacturing and sales.
2. COVID-19 LOCKDOWNS IN CHINA
The restrictions referred to the COVID-19 pandemic in China in 2022 can lead to delays in auto components` supplies for the Russian platforms such as UAZ, AutoVAZ and others using Chinese components. This will inevitably lead to the decline of Chinese LCV import into Russia. All these factors will provoke new manufacturing outages and growth of vehicle shortage on the Russian market.
3. DECLINE OF RUSSIAN MACROECONOMICS
Sanctions put a negative effect on macroeconomic figures. According to the Central Bank forecasts, Russian GDP can be reduced by 8-10% in 2022.
Inflation level in Russia showed 17,8% in April 2022, according to Federal State Statistics Service. In the end of 2022 Russian Ministry of Economic Development predicts 17,5% inflation.
In 2022 the international transfer is going to be reduced because of the sanctions. The turnover of bulk trade and retail also tends to decrease, which will provoke financial difficulties for road haulers and companies using LCVs for personal needs. In these conditions the LCV corporate fleet renewal will be significantly slowed down.
Autocredits appreciation can also negatively affect the automotive market because of Russian Bank key rate increase in comparison with 2021. At the same time the automotive leasing also appreciated, what reduced vehicle procurements by corporate customers.
The autocredit key rate has been decreased up to 14% since the 14th of May, up to 11% since the 27th of May and up to 9,5% since the 10th of Jone 2022. This will lead to decline of credit and leasing rated in June 2022, however, they will exceed the figures of 2021 (key rate 5 - 5,5%).
4. NEW VEHICLE PRICE GROWTH
In connection with logistic chains` complication, auto components` shortage for LCV manufacturing and increasing inflation, new LCV prices are significantly growing. Considering the financial problems of haulers and other companies consuming LCVs, this will lead to further LCV demand reduction.
5. TCO GROWTH
In 2022 г. prices for spare parts, tires etc. showed a significant increase. TCO growth can negatively affect the decision making about new LCV purchases in 2022.
6. BIG VARIETY ON THE USED LCV MARKET
Last years, a diversified used vehicle fleet was formed in Russia. During the crisis a part of customers prefers used vehicle purchases to the new ones, including «grayly» imported vehicles. Besides that, «fresh» used LCVs can appear on the market because of business reduction of haulers and other companies.
Despite that, here are given the factors allowing to minimize negative tendencies on the new LCV market in 2022.
1. PARALLEL IMPORT LEGALIZATION
On the 6th May 2022, Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade published the list of vehicles and spare parts available for parallel import without right owner`s authorization. The allowed LCV brand list included Volkswagen, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Dodge, Chevrolet, Jeep, GMC. The parallel import provides foreign LCVs inflow on the Russian market, however, in connection with logistical complications, supply volumes do not tend to be significant in the current year and will not lead to significant market growth.
2. RUSSIAN AND CHINESE BRANDS CONSERVATION ON THE MARKET
Russian and Chinese brands are planning to conserve their positions on the LCV market. In June 2022 GAZ Group enterprises announced that they will continue working in a full-time week during the year. On the 5th of May the Government of Russian Federation intensified the financial support of GAZ and increased the subsidiary credit limit from 10 to 20 billion rubles.
UAZ continues working according to the standard timetable after a small delay in May. Since the 6th of June AutoVAZ has restarted LADA vehicle manufacturing and will be working in the 4-day working week mode until the 4th of September.
Chinese OEMs are planning to continue LCV supplies into Russia. Despite the logistical problems while transporting vehicles and auto components, these companies are going to stay on the Russian market and to organize sales.
3. STATE PROGRAMS RESTARTING
On the 17th of June the head of Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov declared that beneficial autocredit and autoleasing programs will be restarted according to Russian Government statements № 364 and № 649 correspondently. TCO limit for vehicles included in these programs is going to be increased from 1,5 to 3 million rubles.
Totally, in 2022 Russian Government is planning to subside 20,7 billion rubles for automotive market support. Autocredits will be subsided with 10,2 billion rubles, beneficial leasing – with 4,9 billion rubles, discounts for electric vehicle – with 2,6 billion rubles, gas fuel vehicle procurements – with 3,3 billion rubles.
Basic forecast script supposes that sanction measures against Russia will be conserved up to the end of 2022. GAZ and UAZ will continue LCV sales in «basic» versions. AutoVAZ restarts manufacturing and sales of LADA Largus in the 4th quarter. Chinese brands will be able to establish the logistic chains for vehicle and spare components transport into Russia in the 2nd half of 2022. LCVs, whose supplies into Russia are prohibited, will be parallel imported in small volumes. Russian economy will show a depressed tendency up to the end of 2022, but without dramatic declines.
Optimistic forecast script supposes that sanction measures against Russia will be conserved up to the end of 2022, but will be gradually relented. GAZ and UAZ will continue LCV sales in «basic» versions. AutoVAZ restarts manufacturing and sales of LADA Largus in the 3rd quarter. Chinese brands will be able to establish the logistic chains for vehicle and spare components transport into Russia in the 2nd half of 2022. LCVs, whose supplies into Russia are prohibited, will be parallel imported in small volumes. Russian economy will show a depressed tendency up to the end of 2022, but several macroeconomic figures are going to grow in the second half of the year in comparison with March-April.
Pessimistic forecast script supposes that sanction measures against Russia will be conserved up to the end of 2022 and restricted. GAZ and UAZ will continue LCV sales in «basic» versions, but sales volumes will be decreased. AvtoVAZ does not restart LADA Largus manufacturing and sales. Chinese brands will not be able to establish the logistic chains and will stop vehicle and spare components transport into Russia in the 2nd half of 2022. LCVs, whose supplies into Russia are prohibited, will be parallel imported in insignificant volumes. Russian economy will show a depressed tendency up to the end of 2022, several macroeconomic figures are going to decline in the second half of the year in comparison with March-April.
According to the basic forecast script, new LCV sales will be reduced by 45,68% in 2022 in comparison with 2021 and will show 69,22 thousand. According to the optimistic script, sales decrease will show 41,26%, 74,85 thousand LCVs will be sold. According to the pessimistic script, the sales will be reduced by 50,81% дup to 62,68 thousand.
New LCV market forecast before 2022, thousands
New LCV market structure forecast in 2022
 Here and further: except supplies for Russian Ministry of Defense, security departments


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Equifax and U.S. government agencies announced on Monday that the credit reporting agency is prepared to pay up to $700 million to settle charges related to the massive 2017 data breach that impacted roughly 147 million people.
According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Equifax has agreed to pay at least $575 million, but the amount could be increased to $700 million if necessary. The money will be used to compensate consumers and settle charges brought by the FTC, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and 50 states.
Equifax will set up a $300 million fund to provide credit monitoring services to affected customers and compensate them for credit and identity monitoring services and other expenses for which they paid themselves in response to the data breach.
In addition, $175 million will be paid to 48 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and $100 million represents civil penalties paid to the CFPB.
On a website set up by Equifax for the consumer class action settlement, the company has pointed out that a federal court will need to approve the deal. If the settlement is approved, customers can receive free credit monitoring or $125 in cash if they already benefit from credit monitoring services for at least another 6 months. Impacted customers are also eligible for up to $20,000 in cash for the time spent dealing with the breach, including for losses resulting from the incident, and dealing with fraud, identity theft or other misuse of personal information.
“Equifax denies any wrongdoing, and no judgment or finding of wrongdoing has been made,” the company said on the consumer settlement website.
As part of the settlement with authorities, Equifax has also agreed to implement a comprehensive cybersecurity program, which will be assessed every two years by a third party.
“This comprehensive settlement is a positive step for U.S. consumers and Equifax as we move forward from the 2017 cybersecurity incident and focus on our transformation investments in technology and security as a leading data, analytics, and technology company,” said Mark W. Begor, CEO of Equifax. “The consumer fund of up to $425 million that we are announcing today reinforces our commitment to putting consumers first and safeguarding their data – and reflects the seriousness with which we take this matter. We have been committed to resolving this issue for consumers and have the financial capacity to manage the settlement while continuing our $1.25 billion EFX2020 technology and security investment program. We are focused on the future of Equifax and returning to market leadership and growth.”
Hackers gained access to a database associated with Equifax’s Automated Consumer Interview System (ACIS) after the company failed to address a critical vulnerability it learned of a couple months earlier. The attackers gained access to the database in mid-May 2017 and made roughly 9,000 unauthorized database queries before Equifax detected suspicious activity in July 2017.
The hackers gained access to names, social security numbers, dates of birth and other information belonging to over 145 million individuals. Roughly 209,000 payment card numbers and associated expiration dates were also compromised.
Following the disclosure of the incident, Equifax was accused of failing to implement a policy for efficiently patching vulnerabilities, failing to segment its network to prevent attackers from moving laterally, failing to install robust intrusion detection systems, and storing sensitive information in plain text.
“I’m far from an Equifax apologist, but the truth is it could have been anyone. It’s not an excuse, but rather the reality we live in,” Adam Laub, CMO of STEALTHbits Technologies, told SecurityWeek.
“The best outcome isn’t Equifax making the situation right – although that is important for all of those affected – it’s everyone else learning that the price to be paid outweighs the inconvenience of ensuring proper measures are taken to secure the data that puts them at risk in the first place. And it’s got to be from the ground up too. There’s no silver bullet. There’s no one thing that mitigates the exposure. A multi-layered, multi-faceted approach is critical to making the juice not worth the squeeze for bad actors looking to score quickly and easily,” Laub added.
Related: Moody’s Downgrades Equifax Outlook to Negative Over 2017 Data Breach
Related: Former Equifax Executive Gets 4 Months for Insider Trading
Related: Equifax Was Aware of Cybersecurity Weaknesses for Years, Senate Report Says


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WASHINGTON/DETROIT — General Motors and a joint venture with LG Energy Solution are to announce investments of more than $6.5 billion next week in Michigan in new electric truck and battery factories, according to a state document and sources informed about it.
The Michigan Strategic Fund said Friday it plans to review at a Tuesday board meeting plans by GM and joint venture Ultium Cells to invest $6.5 billion and create 4,000 jobs. at the Lansing and Orion Township sites.
In December https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/gm-eyes-3-billion-investment-michigan-ev-plants-source-2021-12-10, Reuters reported that GM offered to build a $2.5 billion battery factory near Lansing with LG Energy Solution creating 1,700 jobs. The two companies should share the costs.
GM is also expected to invest at least $4 billion in Orion Township to build versions of the new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra electric pickup trucks, sources said. A major factory expansion is expected to be completed by 2025.
The automaker is also planning electric versions of its heavy-duty pickup trucks, but they are unlikely to be built at the expanded Orion plant, one of the sources said.
GM announced plans in January 2021 to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035. The company confirmed this month that it also plans to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new heavy-duty vehicles. by 2035.
GM said in a statement Friday that it appreciates the support “related to two potential projects GM is considering in Orion Township and Lansing. Until these projects receive final approval, we have no comment on potential announcement timing”.
GM announced in June that it would increase spending on electric and autonomous vehicles to $35 billion through 2025, a 30% jump from its previous forecast.


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$32 Million Natural Pet Food Consumer Fraud Lawsuit Settlement Affirmed
On July 5, 2017, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, in St. Louis, affirmed a $32 million consumer fraud class action settlement for Missouri consumers and those in other states who purchased certain types of Blue Buffalo cat and dog food. Gray Ritter Graham attorney Don Downing represented the Missouri consumers in the litigation. The plaintiffs alleged that the Blue Buffalo pet food included poultry byproducts although the company misleadingly touted them as “all natural,” containing no such fillers. Per settlement terms, consumers with receipts for their Blue Buffalo purchases between May 2008 and December 2015 are eligible to receive up to $200. All class members who filed claims will receive at least 100 percent of their claim amount.
Posted in News on July 11, 2017


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In 2012, the Cinderella Project gave away 45 prom dresses to high school girls who otherwise would not have had the money to outfit themselves properly for their big night.
Last year, the project gave away more than 480 dresses as well as a handful of tuxes for boys.
Recipients also got shoes and accessories, as well as vouchers and coupons donated by hairdressers, limousine services, restaurants, and other prom-related service providers.
Cinderella Project coordinator Ann DeWitte told the Times-News Tuesday that the average Cinderella Project recipients probably get more than $1,000 worth of goods and services. In many cases, the dresses are brand new and retail from several hundred dollars to more than $1,000 each.
When you figure the project gave away more then 480 dresses last year, that’s at least $480,000 in goods and services distributed in 2016 alone.
“To be honest, I never really thought about it like that,” DeWitte said. “On dress giveaway days, we’re so busy we never have gotten around to adding it all up. To me this has always been about the kids — making sure they have everything they need for prom night from head to toe.
“When you add it up, that is a lot of money, but we are 100 percent supported through contributions. And 100 percent of everything that comes in through donations goes right back out to benefit these kids. A kid who comes to the Cinderella Project doesn’t have to pay a penny for anything we provide.”
The Cinderella Project is based at the Hope Community Church in Allandale located off Stone Drive in the old Winn-Dixie store behind Walgreen’s.
DeWitte and her Cinderella Project staff are preparing for three dress giveaway events scheduled for March 3-4 and April 1.
That means they’re currently in full fundraising and “dress-raising” mode.
Right now they have about 600 dresses in stock, but there is a shortage of plus size dresses — size 12 and above.
They also need tuxedos or black suits with white shirts and dress shoes that would be suitable for a boy to wear to prom.
Contributions are also being sought from businesses that provide services to prom attendees such as beauty shops, limo services, and restaurants.
And, of course, cash is always welcome. DeWitte often uses cash contribution to purchases things the project falls short of, such as shoes, accessories, and travel or meal expenses.
Last year the project served only about 40 boys, but DeWitte said that was probably because boys didn’t know the service was available. She’s hoping to spread the word that the Cinderella Project can outfit them for prom as well as girls.
“Last year people brought me donations and sent me donations from area tuxedo rental places,” DeWitte said. “I’ve asked for a bunch of suits, but right now we’re way behind on boy’s suits and shoes.”
The program often receives major dress contributions from area boutiques, but word has spread across the country about the program, which has received dresses from as far away as Texas and New York.
But there’s a lot of local support as well.
Many former recipients are also good about turning their dress back in after graduation, even though they don’t have to.
DeWitte said she can’t say enough about Collier Cleaners, which has literally dry-cleaned and/or repaired hundreds of dresses and never charged a dime.
DeWitte also praises the women of Hope Community Church who always donate their time and resources to the project.
They try to make the dress giveaway events special for all the recipients. It turns into part fashion show, part free shopping spree as each girl tries to pick out every element for her perfect ensemble.
The Cinderella Project has also become a regional program.
Last year the program served students from Hawkins, Sullivan, Claiborne, Johnson, Unicoi, Carter, and Knox counties.
DeWitte said she fully expects 2017 to be the Cinderella Project’s biggest year yet.
The March 3 event begins at 3:30 p.m. and the March 4 and April 1 events are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Contributions can be mailed to the Cinderella Project, P.O. Box 35, Rogersville, TN 37857, or call DeWitte at (423) 754-5585.
The Hope Community Church has a service called Hope Helps, which is an emergency food and clothing pantry. Any donations of dresses, tuxes and other items can be dropped off there as well on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
File Video from Cinderella Project event March 12, 2016:


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Chennai: Tasmac shops that sell liquor in Tamilnadu will be shut for four days owing to elections.
According to a statement issued by Tasmac managing director Kirlosh Kumar, the dry days are 16, 17, 18 April. Tamilnadu is going to polls 18 April for the Lok Sabha as well as State Assembly and, hence, liquor shops and bars attached to such shops are to be shut on the three days.
In his circular, Kumar cited a government order from the Home Department that liquor shops and bars should be closed from 10 am 16 April to 12 midnight 18 April.
Similarly, Tasmac shops and bars will be shut 23 May, when counting of votes takes place for the polls.
The Tasmac circular has asked its zonal managers, district managers and godown in-charges, liquor shops and bars attached to such shops to be shut on these four days to ensure there is no problem during elections and counting of votes.


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Killer Bees Honey is proud to announce that we have been accepted as a Certified Naturally Grown apiary. Certified Naturally Grown (CNG.org) was established in 2002 as an alternative to the odiously expensive and sometimes irrelevant FDA and USDA standards for “organic” honey certification. Instead of using USDA accredited third-party certifiers, CNG farms and apiaries are inspected by Agricultural Extension Agents, Master Gardeners, customers, and other CNG farmers. All CNG farms are subject to random pesticide and herbicide residue testing.
Why is this important to our customers?
The FDA has no safety standards for honey, only “guidance” for labeling honey and honey products. The USDA grading system is just as milquetoast regarding honey quality. The USDA does not inspect apiaries for pesticide use. The USDA does not test honey and related honey products for herbicides, fungicides, pesticides or other toxins. There are no USDA protocols to follow, thus nothing to enforce. No action has ever or will ever be taken against a honey producer or packer who sells toxin-corrupted honey. According to the USDA, they’ve done nothing wrong.
The USDA recently tested 315 samples of honey for pesticides. Intriguingly, if you look at the summary results under “EPA tolerance level, PPM” you have a continuous line of NT’s. Meaning: no tolerance (NT) level for that particular pesticide was set by the EPA.
Damn the pesticides! Full retail sales ahead!
Because of the complete lack of USDA and FDA standards, honey production should ultimately be monitored by the growers and consumer. This is why Killer Bees Honey joined the Certified Naturally Grown program. We intend on inviting our Ag Extension Agent and local Master Gardener to examine of our apiary, but the final word will be from customers who have come and attended our tours to personally see the transparency of our operation and the purity of our honey.
On a related note, it has been rumored that the EPA may set a national standard for glyphosate in honey. It’s ironic that the EPA has established tolerances for glyphosate in other foods which are enforced on manufacturers, but not honey. Sue Bee likes to call itself “America’s Honey.” It's “100% Pure” and “All Natural” labels would be misleading, false and deceptive if judged by the EU thresh-hold for glyphosate in honey. It was discovered through FOIA requests that Sue Bee honey had high residual amounts of glyphosate in its honey. Results from a more recent study of off the shelf, store bought honey showed honey lots from Iowa (Sue Bee is located in Iowa) with glyphosate residues of 653 ppb — more than 10 times the limit of 50 ppb allowed by the European Union.
Speaking of transparency, the new owner of Monsanto’s Roundup, Bayer AG had its pending glyphosate case bifurcated. A win for them; now plaintiff’s attorneys must show that glyphosate caused the cancer of their client, Edwin Hardeman, before they can present evidence proving malice on the part of Monsanto. The trial begins in February and is the first of an expected 9,300 U.S. glyphosate lawsuits. Let transparency prevail.
This brings us back to Certified Naturally Grown and its rigorous standards. Killer Bees honey supports CNG’s philosophy that food be grown and processed using sustainable and non-toxic methods. Animals and insects are to be cared for in the most ethical and sustainable manner. Pest control should be benign to the bees, without the use of harmful, synthetic pesticides which would undoubtedly end up in the honey.
"Certification for farmers, not corporate conglomerates" is an apt tag line for CNG.org.


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By Peter M. DeLorenzo
Detroit. It’s Vehicle Display week right here in the Motor City. Sure, you read through that properly. Following two-and-one-fifty percent decades of postponements, bogus starts and navel-gazing concerns as to “what is it all about?” the Detroit Vehicle Present, these types of as it is, is slated to start off with a media working day on Wednesday (this week’s publication date – WG).
Really, this “media day” is a misnomer, because what utilized to be two jam-packed days of media push conferences, product or service rollouts and intensely orchestrated and, in some cases, excruciating govt pontificating, has been lowered to a half-assed facsimile of what utilised to be.
Oh confident, there are outdoor shows, and tightly controlled “ride and drives” in and all over Huntington Position (formerly regarded as Cobo Corridor), but the reality is that what was as soon as a proper global car demonstrate stuffed with crucial new item reveals has now been reduced to a hometown retail display, where the thousands of men and women who are possibly immediately or indirectly included in the vehicle business in this area can go and revel in the fruits of their labor and say one thing like, “We did the reduced entrance valance on the new Mustang.”
It is no massive revelation that the COVID pandemic essentially ruined the automobile present design. It upended the car display calendar and hastened its demise by putting the entire circus on a practice to Oblivion, which is one stop earlier Out of date Station.
Is this the Detroit Clearly show organizers’ fault? Not in the minimum. These people are struggling mightily to make the Detroit Auto Clearly show relevant and an vehicle-themed location for family members entertainment. A substantial effort and hard work is currently being designed – supported by the regional media – to make the show attractive all over again. But the reality is that the plot has been shed and the absence of the Detroit Vehicle Show has not designed hearts increase fonder. Rather it has planted an overpowering feeling of ennui, which has permeated the collective consciousness of the people today who utilized to give a damn.
Indeed, the situations have improved. The car manufacturers have realized that the collective hundreds of hundreds of thousands of dollars they employed to devote on car displays was a large squander of revenue. Vehicle reveals have been replaced by specific product rollouts to what passes for the automotive media, alleged social media “influencers” and properly-heeled clientele who can unfold the phrase substantially a lot more competently and in essence, instantaneously.
It doesn’t assist that the retail automobile market has inexorably improved much too. Individuals really do not store at dealers any longer the limitless source chain difficulties have place paid out to that quaint idea. Now, it’s spec-out an purchase for a motor vehicle and wait around or hope somebody on a checklist to get a vehicle cancels and results in an open up slot.
Wait a moment, wouldn’t that make the Detroit Automobile Show far more desirable? Really, no. People are used to viewing every little thing and nearly anything to do with new and future vehicles on the Net. Right now. There’s no secret or attract any more, no waiting around with anticipation for the sellers to get rid of the paper covering up the showroom windows like ancient occasions. Individuals now know what is coming a 12 months or far more in advance down to the previous element, it’s just the way issues are done these days. And aside from, folks around listed here are conscious of cars from all of the makers properly ahead of everybody else. We see prototypes on the road all the time, many years in advance far too.
Is there nearly anything heading on at the “new” Detroit Auto Present? The only reveal of observe in Detroit will be Ford’s expose of the very last ICE Mustang, Wednesday night time. Is this event more than enough to give the Detroit Car Show believability or desirability? No. It is akin to the Detroit Lions holding “family” day. You in essence know what’s likely to transpire – with a several wrinkles thrown in for the sake of “new” – but we’ve all been there and done that prior to, haven’t we?
This column will be a bitter capsule for some, but actuality has a way of receiving in the way. The Significant-Octane Truth of the matter is that the Detroit Car Demonstrate is useless, no issue what sort it takes. And what’s taking place in its put this week will be a a person strike wonder. There is just not plenty of “buzz” to maintain things past this year.
Oh, and a person additional thing. I refuse to sit by and let suppliers create artificial seems for their EVs and get in touch with it “good” or suitable. Stellantis is touting the artificially-developed muscle audio emanating from its new Charger EV prototype as a little something that is authentic and fascinating. But that is Unmitigated Bush League Bullshit. Digital-produced and projected audio – no make a difference how enhanced – is the quintessential definition of synthetic phoniness. There is nothing at all “authentic” about it and there is no “there” there. The Substantial-Octane Real truth is that it is flat-out silly, no matter how it’s offered. And it’s the most depressing progress to hit this organization in a very long, very long time.
There you have it. Two wildly unpopular topics this 7 days.
The Superior-Octane Truth has under no circumstances been effortless, always feel-great well-liked, or for the faint of heart.
And which is the Superior-Octane Truth for this 7 days.
Even if some of you simply cannot cope with it.
“You Can’t Cope with The Truth” – A Couple of Superior Males.


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Following the announcement by its parent company to separate its global tea business, as part of a strategic review, the Management of Unilever Nigeria Plc. (UNILEVER) yesterday, via a letter to the NSE informed the investing public of the ongoing process which it expects to conclude by the end of 2021.
Analysts say that while the FMCG giant is focused on streamlining its business interests with a view to optimizing value, its decisions have had unintended consequences, particularly on its Nigerian subsidiary.
Recall that the company had towed a similar line with its spreads business, first separating and subsequently selling it off in 2018 – a move that resulted in a 34.89% drop in revenue for Unilever Nigeria in 2019FY (as against prior years of consecutive growth) and an after tax loss of NGN7.42bn.
Revenue has not recovered to previous levels since the divestment.
In the event that the company does eventually sell off its tea business, Unilever Nigeria’s food portfolio which is responsible for about half of the company’s revenues (contributing 56.10% of total revenue as at 9M:2020 and 5-year average contribution of 50.06%) would be reduced to just two seasoning brands: Knorr and Royco.


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A digest of important news from sources selected by our local editors. Delivered weekday mornings.
“There is little practical difference between a debit card transaction and a check,” she said. “You are simply withdrawing your money from your account.”
However, bankers say that banks bear the risks and costs associated with nonpayment with a debit card – unlike a check, in which retailers must go after nonpayment.
“I think retailers know that they would rather have a customer use a debit card, so they can get their money immediately and not have to worry about a check being returned,” SouthPoint’s Smith said. “The reason there is a fee on debit cards is because we cover fraud and issue new cards when there is identity theft.”
According to the National Retail Federation, the fee cap should save merchants and their customers an estimated $1.2 billion a month.
“Two dollars of every $100 the consumer spends using plastic goes directly to the credit card industry,” Nancy Dennis said. “The average American family pays more than $300 annually in interchange fees. They just don’t know it. Making the fees relate more to the true cost of processing the cards will allow retailers to pass those savings onto the consumer in order to stay competitive.”
A final rule on the Durbin Amendment is expected from the Federal Reserve on April 21, and the rule will go into effect in July. Bills introduced into the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives would delay swipe fee reform until the Fed can study its impact further.
“(The Alabama Bankers Association) would certainly like to see the implementation of the interchange fee provision delayed,” Bailey said. “We think that there needs to be more information put on the table for this to be considered because right now only the retailers would benefit.”
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While America's pork producers wage a new marketing campaign, their rural ethanol-producing counterparts have a growing public relations kerfuffle.
Critics have labeled the nation's predominant home-grown fuel as a catalyst in escalating grain prices which THEY argue contribute to food riots worldwide. Ethanol proponents have refuted those accusations in light of $100 oil siphoning profit margins and raising the costs for everything from operating a farmer's combine to producing plastic food containers.
For many, it's a flashback to 2008 – when food prices grew across the globe. A similar disproportionate economic squeeze on citizens in third world countries is now building. And according to various global aid groups, it could get worse.
Global food prices are the highest in 20 years and the United Nations warns they could go even higher. The spike is blamed on rising oil prices stemming from the unrest in Libya and the Middle East.
Echoing previous statements, World Bank President Robert Zoellick said last month that, "Food prices are at dangerous levels."
The Food and Agriculture Organization, or FAO, reported its food price index was up 2.2 percent last month. That marked the eighth consecutive month that food prices have risen, and they're now at their highest level since January 1990 when the agency started monitoring prices.
News of soaring food prices comes on the heels of crude oil trading above $100 a barrel. Nearby crude oil futures prices settled above the century mark Tuesday for the first time in three years.
Wheat prices soared in February on U.S. commodities exchanges, but have since fallen back to January levels. But, corn prices continue to climb, rising nearly 33 percent since December. Meanwhile, soybean prices have fallen slightly after steadily increasing since December.
Cereal prices rose 3.7 percent over January averages, while meat and dairy prices expanded by 2 percent and 4 percent, respectively.
FAO officials say the world can expect further price increases if oil prices continue to rise.


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A new study reports that a variety of vitamin D practice patterns exist in primary care and they are often led by patient demand.
Tag Archives: vitamin d test
New research has found that recent Canadian immigrants are tested for vitamin D deficiency at a lower rate than other sociodemographic groups.
Vitamin D testing has increased dramatically in New South Wales, Australia in recent years, new study says
A new study has found that vitamin D testing in New South Wales has increased 8-fold between 2001 and 2010, but vitamin D levels are still low.
TechNavio, a company that provides market research reports, has just recently released a report predicting significant growth in the vitamin D testing market between 2014-2018.
Tom Weishaar discusses the dramatic increase in vitamin D testing during the past 10-15 years.
Recently, doctors at Harvard Medical School and colleagues in Pakistan supplemented women with extremely high doses of vitamin D.
Alaska State legislator, Representative Paul Seaton, wants to test the vitamin D levels of all newborns in Alaska.
New study reports a 6.2% decline in vitamin D levels from the previous report issued in 2010.
A recent study from Dr. Beth Baily and colleagues at East Tennessee State University reveals that frequent vitamin D blood tests mean lower, not higher, total medical care costs.
Dr. Cannell takes a look at a recent paper by Dr. Krasowski on vitamin D testing and discusses his general testing philosophy.


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Fujifilm is rumored to announce the XF 10-24mm f/4 and XF 56mm f/1.2 lenses within the next couple of months to add more prowess to the X-mount line-up.
There are many lenses available for photographers who have purchased an X-mount camera. Additionally, the camera choices are also pretty diverse, but Fujifilm is working to expand them both.
Fujifilm to launch two lenses within two months
If a weathersealed shooter is on its way, then the potential buyers should be aware that two new lenses will also be officially introduced in the foreseeable future.
The company’s roadmap includes the XF 10-24mm f/4 and XF 56mm f/1.2 optics and the rumor mill has come forth to say that one of them is coming by the end of the year, while the other one will be launched in very early 2014.
Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 lens announcement set for November 20
According to sources familiar with the matter, the first to be unveiled is the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 lens. Its announcement date appears to have been scheduled for November 20.
The price is unknown, just like the release date. However, we should expect this product to become available during the first weeks of next year for a somewhat expensive price tag. Either way, it will provide a 35mm equivalent of 15-36mm.
Fuji taking the wraps off of the XF 56mm f/1.2 lens around CES 2014
The second model is the Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 lens. People familiar with the matter are claiming that its launch event will take place on January 6, possibly somewhere in the surroundings of CES 2014 event, which opens its doors to visitors on January 7. Its 35mm equivalent will stand at 84mm and coupled with the bright aperture, it should prove to be an excellent glass for portrait photography.
Its price is unknown nonetheless, just like its exact release date, but photographers will not be left waiting for very long, as the competition keeps getting stronger and long delays are not acceptable. An example of the lengthy and unhealthy delays include the Leica 42.5mm Nocticron for Micro Four Thirds cameras, which has been announced several times and it still cannot be purchased.
Weathersealed X-mount camera also coming in early January
Meanwhile, Fuji has recently confirmed that many lenses will be launched over the following 12 months. We already know many things about the first two, but we are digging to find out more information about them.
The company’s fans are probably more excited about the new X-mount X-Trans II weathersealed camera that is believed to be announced at the Consumer Electronics Show 2014, so the next few months should be really interesting.


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C-CAMP Agri Centre of Excellence will hold Agritech Entrepreneurship Program (ATP), an online workshop for first-time agri-entrepreneurs.
Dates: 27-29th May, 2020
Online engagement with speakers - Dr Basavaraj Girennavar, MD, Criyagen Agri & Biotech, Mr Vishal Gandhi, Founder and CEO, BioRx Venture Advisors, Mr Rajeev Aiyappa, Strategic Advisor to Startups, Dr H.E. Shashidhar, CEO, Cultiva AgriTech
The program will have sessions on how to
- fuel innovation thinking (Dr Basavaj)
- pitch for grants (Mr Vishal and Mr Rajeev)
- grab business opportunities (Dr Shashidhar)
To register write to firstname.lastname@example.org. Online link will be shared with registrants.
[Registrations have been closed for May edition of program]


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Fast growing supermarket chain Morrisons is to open a new store in Mitcham. This follows its successful bid to become the tenant of the property currently occupied by Somerfield.
Morrisons moving to Mitcham will mean that the current Somerfield employees will all be able to maintain their jobs, becoming Morrisons employees.
Deputy Leader of Merton Council Councillor Samantha George said: “We whole heartedly welcome Morrisons to Mitcham. The town has a great deal to offer along with growing potential as somewhere to do business. It’s wonderful to see another major company and employer investing in Mitcham and adding to the economy in the area.”
Notes to editors
1. Asda owns the site in St Marks Road, Mitcham. This is currently occupied by Somerfield supermarket. Asda has expressed its continued commitment to Mitcham and the regeneration of the town centre.
2. The Co-operative Group recently bought Somerfield for £1.57 billion. As a condition of the buy-out the Co-operative Group has had to sell more than 130 of its supermarket stores to comply with competition law.
3. Morrisons has agreed to buy 38 stores from the Co-operative Group.
4. Morrisons is Britain’s fourth largest supermarket group with 117,000 employees.
5. Latest Morrisons interim results for the 26 weeks ended 3 August 2008 (latest) show a total £7.1bn turnover.


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itel Inaugurates its New Operations within the Altia Smart City in Honduras
San Pedro Sula, Honduras: November 16, 2021. Today marks the grand opening event for itel’s new operations in Honduras, located in the Altia Smart City in San Pedro Sula. This new, state-of-the-art business center has been in development since August of this year, and to-date, itel has hired more than 250 bilingual team members for their customer experience center.
Honduras continues to establish itself as an attractive destination for many outsourcing services and technology companies, not only because of its great commitment to innovation and infrastructure, but also because of its incredible talent pool.
"One of our main goals at itel is to create the most inspiring and productive workspaces for our team members around the world, which is why we are proud to make Altia Smart City our home in Honduras. This modern high-tech facility is designed to nurture the lifestyle of our employees and inspire creativity. It is an ideal environment for our company culture, which is based on the belief that the employee experience equals customer experience. We are delighted to have Altia Smart City as a trusted partner as we continue to expand operations in Latin American markets,” said Yoni Epstein, Founding Chairman and CEO of itel.
Altia Smart City, developed by Grupo Karim’s, a privately held multinational corporation with more than 12 years of experience offering competitive advantages and specialized services in office spaces, is the first developed smart city in Latin America and has become a pioneer in attracting BPO companies to the region.
“At Altia Smart City, we always aim to simplify the day-to-day life of our customers. Since our inception, we have worked tirelessly to provide our clients with innovation, quality, and safety in all our services. We are very happy to have itel as a strategic partner, since together, it will allow us to continue offering employment opportunities and improve the quality of life of Hondurans. We are sure that itel will continue to expand its presence in the country with Altia and we are grateful for the trust they have had in us," said Yusuf Amdani, Grupo Karim’s CEO.
In addition to providing adequate infrastructure, Altia promotes and supports economic development in both Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, offering people sustainable, meaningful, and rewarding job opportunities that today generate more than 8,000 direct jobs for the Honduran people.
Learn more about job opportunities at itel. Visit our Careers Page for available positions.


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Newburgh residents will soon have a new option for their morning cup of coffee and donuts.
According to Evansville 411 News on Facebook, the new location will be open to businesses starting this Monday, October 11.
Plans for the new location were announced almost a year ago in December 2020. As Evansville 411 News notes in its article, the new store will be located at 3955 Orchard Lane between the relatively new Tommy’s Express Car Wash and McDonald’s. in the Apple Center parking lot. along Highway 66. The Apple Center is also home to Ruler Foods, Traderbakers, and Ryan’s Do It Right Hardware and Paint.
As I mentioned in December when the announcement was made that Dunkin ‘was coming to Newburgh, I’ll be curious to see how well that goes given that Donut Bank is about a third of a mile east. at the intersection of highways 66 and 261. While we adore new restaurants in the Tri-State, we are creatures of habit too, and Donut Bank has been a staple in Newburgh at this location for many, many years. I imagine the lines inside and at the drive-thru will be stable for a few months while everyone tries. We’ll see if it will stay that way beyond.
Based on responses to the Evansville 411 News post, the majority of people seemed excited about the new location. However, some are encouraging everyone to buy local and support Donut Bank instead, while others have expressed concern about the potential traffic problems this could cause on Highway 66 if the drive-thru lane runs from the parking lot to the road.[Source: Evansville 411 News on Facebook]


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Game developer and publisher FunPlus, together with its KingsGroup studio, are proud to announce the wildly successful first two years of its mobile strategy hit State of Survival.
The free-to-play strategy game, available on iOS and Android devices, has also crossed 100 million downloads as it makes the global craze available in Japan, which is known as the world's third-largest gaming market according to Newzoo.
"We're incredibly proud of State of Survival's ongoing success. Reaching the 100 million downloads milestone cements the game at the top of both the zombie survival and strategy genres," says FunPlus Chief Business Officer Chris Petrovic. "As we bring the game to a major new market in Japan and continue to create engaging content, in-game events and partnerships for players to enjoy, we're excited to see the game continue on this upward trajectory."
The Walking Dead Meets State of Survival
The hit game kicked off 2021 strong with the introduction of Daryl Dixon, one of the main characters from the AMC hit zombie series The Walking Dead. Daryl became one of the playable heroes in State of Survival, voiced by none other than Norman Reedus himself, who also portrayed the character in The Walking Dead. Furthermore, FunPlus assures its global fanbase that there is still a lot to look out for the year comes to a close. The latest challenge for the game's second anniversary tasks its players to join their fellow survivors in building a massive airship that can safely soar above the endless Infected hordes.
To give the survivors additional odds of making it through alive, especially with the new airship challenge, Becca, a long-time fan-favorite NPC, rejoins the game as a legendary playable hero. With her active skill "Raid," Becca can use her grappling gun to leap, kick, and stun all nearby enemies. Additionally, she has two passive skills: "Incindiary Bullets" give her a chance to use modified, area of effect explore rounds, while her "Killer Instinct" allows Becca to deal more damage to Elite enemies.
Of course, all players who log in during this anniversary season will receive 200 Supply Cases. Additionally, players will also have a chance to unlock Daryl Dixon as their hero through an in-game promo.
Established in 2010, FunPlus has grown to be a world-class, leading independent game developer and publisher current headquartered in Switzerland, with operations in China, Japan, Spain, Sweden, Singapore, Russia, and the United States. As a company the fosters the best creative and most diverse talent in the world - with a workforce of 1,700 people - the company has developed and published games that have ranked in the top spot for the mobile gaming market across 70 different nations, including Guns of Glory, Kings of Avalon, and State of Survival.
FunPlus studios also currently include studios KingSgroup, Puzala, Seven Games, and Imagendary Studios, each with a specific focus on creating unique genres of innovative and engaging games for the global market. The FunPlus brand powers FunPlus Phoenix (FPX), one of the world's largest and most successful esports organizations.
RELATED ARTICLE: Gaming On-The-Go: What Makes A Good Mobile Game?
Published on Tech Times
Written by Mark B.


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Wednesday, August 26, 1998 Published at 13:02 GMT 14:02 UK
Business: The Company File
Yardley faces collapse
Yardley's is the Queen Mother's favourite
One of the most famous British names in cosmetics and perfumes has called in receivers.
Yardley, which has Royal warrants to its name, is to be run by receivers from accountant KPMG while they seek a buyer.
It employs some 300 people.
The crisis comes as the company, founded in 1770, tries to shake off its old fashioned image and trying to reinvent itself.
Last year, the group changed its advertising model from actress Helena Bonham Carter to supermodel Linda Evangelista.
One of the new adverts showed Ms Evangelista shackled in chains and handcuffs.
Administrator Tony Thompson said: "Our first priority as receivers is to quickly take control of Yardley's businesses and its assets.
Mr Thompson said the company had recently been unable to fully develop its brands because of cash shortages.
He said a number of potential buyers had already been identified in the UK and overseas.
The Company File Contents


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The brand, however, wanted to continue being connected with customers and to cheer people up while being locked inside their homes, Tata Starbucks has come up with an innovative social media campaign, #ReconnectWithStarbucks to keep its online audience engaged.
The campaign, which was launched earlier this month, was rolled out in two phases. The first leg asked coffee enthusiasts to share their favourite past times that helped them to ‘reconnect’ during quarantine. TataStarbucks also encouraged its fans to share their favourite Starbucks memories from the past and upload it on their personal Instagram handle, with the hashtag #ReconnectWithStarbucks.
Commenting on this campaign, Deepa Krishnan, head of marketing, Digital, Loyalty and PR, said, “Tata Starbucks has always been about connecting with its customers, partners and the communities we serve. Through #ReconnectWithStarbucks campaign we wanted to keep the cherished Starbucks ritual alive albeit virtually and wanted to spread cheer amongst our beloved customers and most importantly stay connected with them in these times.”


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Shuttered bars, restaurants, and food courts across the country are slowly opening back up, but experts say it could take years before they’re experiencing pre-pandemic levels of business.
Shortly after the coronavirus pandemic spurred state and local governments nationwide to close restaurants to onsite dining, challenges in the supply chain became readily apparent. Dairy producers began dumping milk as orders from foodservice customers dried up. As the virus spread to processing plants, hogs couldn’t be processed, forcing the humane destruction of thousands of animals. Beef processors also began shutting down, forcing producers to enter the queue and wait to send their cattle to market.
The tide is again shifting as food processors refit their operations for social distancing, and restaurants throughout the country reopen their doors — or at least their patios — to consumers, allowing parts of the idled supply chain to slowly start moving again. However, analysts expect a recovery in food demand at foodservice to take months, if not years.
According to a recent report by Rabobank, the worst of COVID-19’s impact on U.S. foodservice is over, and sales declines are expected to moderate, from being down 50% at peak to down 12% to 14% over the next 12 months. “We expect this recovery to continue to strengthen and sales to return to pre-COVID-19 levels by mid- to late 2022,” the report states.
Amit Sharma, senior consumer trends analyst at Rabobank, notes restaurants account for 85% of total foodservice sales, with the remaining 15% coming from other sectors, such as schools, cafeterias, and large events. Food demand from mass gatherings, such as concerts, conferences, and sporting events, remains on hold. Demand from schools also remains uncertain, and even the restaurant recovery will be uneven.
“It will be a longer trip back for the independents. People sitting down in a restaurant to eat is something that will take longer to come back,” Sharma says.
While the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act threw a lifeline to small businesses, the report notes that as many as 50,000 to 60,000 independent restaurants could close permanently over the next 12 months, an attrition rate of 15%-20%. The rate of attrition for all restaurants could rise to 8%-10% over the next year, according to Rabobank.
Some of the more permanent structural changes in restaurants going forward will include converting some restaurants to takeout and delivery only, exiting enclosed shopping malls, increasing automation, and providing less expansive menus. “The days of having a 25-page menu are probably over,” Sharma adds.
Rabobank’s baseline scenario assumes no relapse in COVID-19 infections this fall. “If an effective vaccine were to become widely available, that would accelerate the recovery timeline,” Sharma says. However, later this year and next, Rabobank’s outlook for foodservice becomes more reliant on the economy, which officially entered recession in February, and less reliant on the virus.
Ernie Goss, economist with the Heider College of Business at Creighton University, says the outlook for the economy will depend in large part on the pandemic. “The number-one factor will be the direction of the virus. Does the infection rate increase?” Goss notes.
Worst-case for the economy, Goss says, would be for the virus to come back with a vengeance. A depression could occur if states shut down businesses again or if consumers themselves decide to quarantine. The best-case scenario would be for an early vaccine. In that case, economic growth could return to 2019 levels.
“If a vaccine comes out, all hell will break loose with consumer spending,” Goss adds. However, until the virus has waned, or a vaccine is developed and deployed, Goss expects restaurants to continue to struggle, as capacity is limited either by regulation or consumers’ reluctance to return to dining out.
From 2014 to 2019, spending on food eaten away from home increased from 50.1% to 53.3%, but the volume of food eaten at home is probably closer to 70%-75% of all food demand, Sharma notes. To entice consumers back to their restaurants, the price inflation seen over the last few years could moderate. “There will be more value-oriented offerings and dollar menu items offered by quick-serve restaurants,” he adds.
An earlier Rabobank report, Catching up with U.S. Food Demand During the Coronavirus Crisis, notes that every 10% drop in spending on food eaten out of the home translates into a 3% increase in spending at retail, meaning total dollars spent on food categories during the pandemic has also shifted. For example, beef, chicken and bacon are eaten in greater quantities at restaurants than at home, while pork is less exposed. About 40% of cheese, or 440 million pounds per month, is eaten away from home.
“Breakfast has been the meal that has suffered the most because people are not driving to work and stopping off for a quick breakfast. Two-thirds of bacon consumption is eaten away from home,” says Don Close, senior animal protein analyst with Rabobank AgriFinance. Demand for chicken wings also fell as sports bars and sporting events shut down.
At the other end of the spectrum, 85% of fresh fruit and vegetables are normally consumed at home, according to Rabobank.
“A different situation exists for frozen potatoes, since 85% of consumption occurs in the foodservice channel,” the report states. “The increase in retail frozen potato sales will not be enough to offset lost foodservice sales.”
Temporary disruptions in food supply chains continue to emerge but not to the degree they did when the foodservice sector suddenly closed, causing panic food buying and retail price spikes.
“Consumers went through a period of high prices and out-of-stock items, but given the quality of the product coming, they will be rewarded by an ample supply of product and very attractive prices,” Close says.
Interested in more coverage and insights? Receive a free month of Agri-Pulse or Agri-Pulse West by clicking here.
Eventually, a good selection of restaurant-quality beef will end up being sold through retail meat counters, and prices for lower cuts will decline.
“It will all clear the market. It will be consumed. It will find a market clearing price,” Close adds. While that might mean that producer prices could fall below where they were pre-shutdown, as supplies normalize later this year, prices will eventually recover to pre-COVID-19 levels.
With nearly 21 million Americans still filing for weekly unemployment checks and daily cases of COVID-19 infections increasing in many states, eating at home will likely be the default for the near-term.
“The American psyche is scared right now, and when you are scared you don’t spend,” Goss says.
For more news, go to www.Agri-Pulse.com.


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Yahoo Finance autos correspondent Pras Subramanian outlines Tesla's plans to unveil its electric freight truck tonight.
DAVE BRIGGS: All right, let's check out shares of Tesla trading just about level but down a pinch today on some rather big news, big in terms of size anyway. The EV maker will unveil its 18-wheeler semi at a factory in Nevada tonight. And PepsiCo will receive the first delivery of Tesla semis tonight. This all comes after a three-year delay.
Yahoo Finance's senior autos reporter Pras Subramanian joins us with the details. What do we know about this big boy?
PRAS SUBRMANIAN: It'll be the first time seeing it, the production version, in the flesh here, this 18-wheeler semi truck, as they call it. It should possibly-- we're hearing that it will have around 500 miles of range, which is very impressive, towing 80,000 pounds, which is the max weight that a class A, I guess, vehicle can tow, so very impressive stats.
We'll get the official-- hopefully get the official numbers later tonight at the reveal event in Giga Nevada. And like you said, PepsiCo will be the first recipient of these trucks. They're going to use them use them in their Frito-Lay facility in Modesto. So they're going to be kind of rejiggering that facility to kind of deal with electric trucks and those big kind of semis as well.
So a big night for Tesla here. But I think there's some concern or some kind of skepticism if this thing can actually do that for the right price.
SEANA SMITH: Yeah.
DAVE BRIGGS: Let alone if the power grid can support them.
SEANA SMITH: Yeah, then that's another big factor in all this. Pras, there was also a couple of headlines crossing today just in terms of Tesla adjusting their prices on a couple of models in an effort to boost demand. Why are they doing this now?
PRAS SUBRMANIAN: Yeah, I mean, it looks concerning on the face of it, right, cutting prices? ElecTrek reporting that they're sending out dealer notices to cut the Model Y and Model 3 price by $3,500 bucks each in the month of December to kind of boost deliveries in this month because of the fact that they're concerned, or they're seeing people canceling orders because they want to get that IRA tax credit that starts again for Tesla in January.
So they're saying, hey, we'll give you half that credit now if you get this truck now or get this car now. So that's kind of the reason behind it, because they don't want to have a backlog of cars sitting on their lots in December when their numbers come out for Q4 deliveries. They want to get those cars out the door and restart it again in January for Q1.
DAVE BRIGGS: And I think the semi has a $40,000 tax break. Yeah, so that's a big one.
PRAS SUBRMANIAN: Which is a huge--
DAVE BRIGGS: Big incentive there.
PRAS SUBRMANIAN: And that's why we saw Elon Musk say, hey, we've got that truck coming soon, December 1. That came out of nowhere.
SEANA SMITH: Hmm, all right, we'll see. I don't know. I guess it'll be entertaining.
DAVE BRIGGS: It always is.
SEANA SMITH: Unveils are always interesting. So we'll see.
PRAS SUBRMANIAN: Real quick, there might be a surprise. So we'll see.
SEANA SMITH: What do you think that will be?
PRAS SUBRMANIAN: I might-- you might hear some news about the new Tesla Roadster, that supercar that they teased awhile ago. We'll see. We'll see.
DAVE BRIGGS: Good tease, brother.
SEANA SMITH: OK, we'll sit over here. All right, Pras, thanks so much for having on set--


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How the DQ Grill & Chill Concept is Growing Throughout the Southeast with Experienced Business Operators
How convenience store and oil company McDonald Oil is tapping into the food-service industry with the Dairy Queen brand
By Katie Murray
Dairy Queen Contributor
(RestaurantNews.com) With more than 40 years of business experience, the McDonald Oil Company, a well-known oil and convenience store operator, is broadening its business scope and diversifying its portfolio with the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.
President of McDonald Oil Company Tim Huff saw that the food industry, specifically QSR segment, was on the rise and saw it as a smooth transition to balance the fluctuation of the oil business. With the creation of a new


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Dealers Warn of Lafite Bubble as Auctions Double on Asia Demand
Surging demand in Asia for Chateau Lafite and other prestige French wines may be causing a bubble, dealers said.
The warning for 2011 comes after the three biggest wine auctioneers had final sales figures of $258.3 million for 2010, more than double 2009, according to Bloomberg calculations.
“At first, the Asian average buyer was a consumer,” David Elswood, Christie’s International’s head of wine, said in an interview. “Over the last year we’ve seen the emergence of the Chinese speculator. There have been auctions where just two or three bidders have taken 80 percent of the top lots. Often the items are put on deposit and we store them on the buyers’ behalf for the foreseeable future.”
Asians have dominated the market after the Hong Kong government scrapped import duty on wine in February 2008 and newly wealthy Chinese acquired a taste for prestige Bordeaux and Burgundy. Prices for the top labels rose between 60 percent and 100 percent last year, according to Elswood.
The London-based merchants Wilkinson Vintners Ltd. sold two 12-bottle cases of Lafite 1982 in December for almost 48,000 pounds ($74,830) each that will be drunk during the Chinese New Year in February, said Paul Bowker, a director. In September 2008, two cases of the same wine fetched 18,400 pounds and 19,550 pounds at Sotheby’s London.
“Prices have escalated dramatically,” Bowker said in an interview. “Lafite is the biggest bubble. While it won’t burst, growth will slow when people realize you can buy a not dissimilar wine like Chateau Latour for half the price. It’s only the very top of the market that’s been affected.”
Acker Merrall & Condit reported a full-year grand total of $98.5 million of wine sold, a record for an auction house, the New York-based company said in an e-mailed statement. Two-thirds of sales were made at events in Hong Kong, it said.
Sotheby’s and Christie’s respective totals of $88.3 million and $71.5 million were both records for their wine departments.
Hart Davis Hart Wine Co.’s total increased 63 percent to $39.2 million, the company said in an emailed release.
Two-thirds of all the lots valued at more than 10,000 pounds at Christie’s auctions in the U.S., Europe and Hong Kong fell to Asian bidders, Elswood said. Demand from the Far East is concentrated on a limited range of fewer than 20 prestige labels with Pauillac’s Chateau Lafite at the top of the list.
“The Asian market is brand-driven,” he said. “If they can’t buy Lafite, they’re not going to buy Chateau Lynch Bages instead. They’d rather have a Rolex or a Ferrari.”
In October, three bottles of Lafite’s 1869 vintage, sourced directly from the chateau, were sold by Sotheby’s Hong Kong for record prices of HK$1.8 million ($230,000) each. They had been estimated to fetch between HK$40,000 and HK$65,000 per bottle.
“For 200 years wine has been a stable and predictable market,” Elswood said. “Now, because of a small number of wealthy bidders, it’s unstable and unpredictable. Anything can happen at an Asian auction. Sales continue to be underpinned by consumers, though.”
Lafite was Acker’s top-seller in 2010. A lot containing single bottles from 69 vintages ranging from 2003 to 1799 fetched HK$2.6 million -- more than double the HK$1 million low estimate -- in Hong Kong in March.
“It’s a beast that can’t be tamed,” John Kapon, Acker’s president, said in an interview. “The market is as strong as it’s ever been. Every day we meet new buyers from China, and every day the wine gets consumed.”
Ever-rising prices may make top-name Bordeaux a liquid asset that owners are less and less inclined to consume.
“It’s becoming more and more difficult to drink top wines,” said Elswood. “If you’ve got a case that cost you 2,000 pounds two years ago and is now worth 15,000 pounds, you’re going to think twice about opening it. Everyone wants to do that in Asia.”
U.K. composer Andrew Lloyd Webber is the latest collector to be offering a major consignment in Asia. He will be selling 747 lots of Bordeaux and Burgundy at Sotheby’s Hong Kong on Jan. 22, valued at as much as HK$32 million.
(Scott Reyburn writes about the art market for Muse, the arts and culture section of Bloomberg News. Opinions expressed are his own.)
To contact the writer on the story: Scott Reyburn in London at firstname.lastname@example.org.
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Mark Beech at email@example.com.