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Securing new customers and ‘continued organic growth’ has been key to Medequip’s expansion in the last year, which has seen it increase its sales by 7% to just shy of £160m.
The community equipment provider’s latest financial figures, published for the year ended 31 December 2017, also show that operating profit increased by 8% to over £7m.
In the last five years Medequip has grown by around £87m. It has made a number of key moves recently, including launching its first community equipment service contract outside England.
It has partnered with manufacturer Cefndy Healthcare at a depot in Newport to expand its coverage in Wales.
The provider said it is keen to roll this model out more widely, with a mind to provide a “unique selling point for both businesses who feel strongly about helping individuals to remain independent for as long as possible, whether that be in the community or in employment”.
Medequip also recently achieved CECOPS accreditation for its four sites in London, which between them serve 17 of the capital’s 32 boroughs.
All of its remaining sites have also been audited to CECOPS standards and the business is awaiting confirmation that it has become the first company to gain full corporate registration.
Medequip currently runs more than 40 contracts operating out of around 19 specially adapted depots across the country, covering a population of more than 14.5m people.
The provider claims it manages its operations to ensure efficient delivery of all services designed for high user and prescriber satisfaction.
It allows equipment to be ordered online to free up prescribers and prevent them from being tied down by logistical issues. It claims that 99% of its activities are carried out within the required timescales.


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A person A person exhales exhales vapor while using an electronic cigarette. / Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg
The Scourge of Vaping Is Hiding in Plain Sight
Two plastic vaping pens are tossed out every second in the UK as disposable e-cigarettes surge in popularity.
Three fires broke out at the Grundon waste disposal plant near London’s Heathrow Airport in the past six months. In each case, the chief suspects were disposable vaping devices containing lithium batteries.
Owen George, who leads recycling for Grundon, said the volume of discarded vapes has soared over the past two years and poses a growing risk because the small batteries “can catch fire or pollute the other recycling.”
The fires are just one consequence of the popularity of disposable vapes. The brightly colored e-cigarettes are also flooding the environment with plastic waste, creating an eyesore in parks and across city centers. And while UK health authorities say vaping helps smokers kick the habit, teachers warn that it’s setting a whole new generation of UK students on the path to nicotine addiction.
Laura Young, an environmental activist in Scotland, is urging politicians, businesses and charities to seek a ban on disposable vapes. Dundee City Council in the northeast of Scotland has backed her campaign, while the UK government is considering legislation to ensure vaping manufacturers foot the bill for the collection and disposal of used products.
“These have absolutely no place in an economy that is trying to be circular and reach net zero,” said Young, 26.
Vapes heat liquids to create an inhalable mist, providing a nicotine hit without at least some of the harmful health effects of burning tobacco. While single-use e-cigarettes can be recycled, they require special treatment and are frequently tossed in the garbage or into the gutter, with the lithium still inside. The metal is an essential material in rechargeable batteries that power everything from mobile phones to electric cars.
Disposable vapes have been on the market for years, but exploded in popularity during 2021 and 2022. By last summer, festivals, beer gardens and parks were filled with clouds of fruity smoke, with names such as Cotton Candy, Peach Ice and Bubblegum. As more entrants came to market, often offering vapes for £4 or £5 a pop, sales soared, leading to a corresponding increase in waste.
Material Focus, a non-profit organization funded by fees collected from electrical manufacturers who fail to meet annual recycling targets, estimates that 1.3 million disposable vapes are binned weekly in the UK, or about two every second. The group says that 90% of the smaller vape and vape juice producers in the country are failing to comply with environmental regulations.
The vaping industry, which includes big cigarette makers such as Philip Morris International Inc., is under pressure to reduce waste. PMI, the maker of Marlboros, is offering free vapes to customers who return products for recycling.
The company sends the used e-cigarettes to recycling centers in Europe — where the raw materials are re-purposed — but it concedes that less than half of users are returning their devices. In the UK, it’s targeting 20% to 25% compliance.
“It’s going to be an education process initially because consumers are not used to recycling a daily-use product,” Ashok Ram Mohan, the president of eVapor at PMI in Lausanne, Switzerland, said in an interview.
Each day, Eric Torrington picks up a blue Ikea bag and heads out for a walk around his home in Dursley, Gloucester. On a regular jaunt, the semi-retired engineer will return home with at least five disposable vapes found on the roadside or around industrial parks.
The past few months have been particularly fruitful — Torrington, 62, now has more than 500 disposable vapes in his garden, waiting to be dismantled and recycled. “I’m finding loads of Lost Mary’s at the moment, which is a particularly popular brand,” he said.
In Buckinghamshire, bus driver Richard Walker runs a litter-picking group in his spare time — often out both days at the weekend and twice during the week. The group, which was started four years ago by his daughter Abigail, now 18, collected almost 500 disposable vapes last month.
Walker, 45, takes as many of the vapes as he can back to shops to recycle. “We find most of them around schools and colleges,” he said.
While Britain’s National Health Service recommends vaping as a useful tool to help adults quit smoking cigarettes, the US takes a less favorable view. It banned flavored vapes and increased the legal age for use of any tobacco-related product to 21.
In the UK, teachers report an epidemic of vaping among students.
At All Saints Catholic College in Kensington, west London, the negative health effects of vaping are taught as part of the curriculum, and students face suspension if they’re caught. Yet teachers still find vapes in trash bins or strewn outside the school.
All Saints is determined to stamp out the habit. Paul Walton, the deputy head teacher, is considering a costly solution to stop pupils from vaping inside the school bathrooms — adding sensors that detect the vapor. At £220 ($267) each, installing the devices across the school would cost about £6,500.
“If it’s an extra deterrent, then it might be worth the investment,” he said.
Waitrose, the UK supermarket chain, has curtailed the sale of single-use vapes altogether. Offering the products “is not something we could justify given the impact on both the environment and the health of young people,” Commercial Director Charlotte Di Cello said in a statement.
Until disposable vapes took off, e-cigarettes were largely designed to be refilled and recharged, for repeated use. A different smoking alternative, IQOS, the heat-not-burn cigarette from Philip Morris International, comes with tobacco sticks that are “smoked” and then discarded — while the consumer reuses the heating device.
The UK government has no immediate plans to introduce a ban on disposable vapes, though it is looking at updating regulations on electrical waste and recycling. “We will consider what changes in legislation are needed to ensure the vaping sector foots the bill for the collection and treatment of their used products,” said a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Meanwhile Catherine Gemmell, Scotland conservation officer at the Marine Conservation Society, said disposable vapes are not only contributing to plastic pollution but are also leaking toxic chemicals into the sea. “Disposable options are a step backward when we need to be moving toward a society of reuse,” she said.

domain: news


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The city is home to 10% of the total welsh muslim population swansea's muslim community is raising money to open a new central mosque and community centre in. When muslims spotted an islamophobic sign at a new mexico convenience store the albuquerque-based mayhill store over one of a muslim man.
The mayhill convenience store in new mexico has reportedly displayed the business displays racist window signs about muslims and 'obama the independent us. (oklahoma city, ok, 2/28/2018) – the oklahoma chapter of the council on american-islamic relations (cair-ok) today joined muslim and interfaith leaders in condemning rep chuck strohm’s refusal to address his discriminatory house chaplain policy and offer a real solution. Mayhill, nm (krqe) – a convenience store in southern new mexico has been under fire for posting anti-obama and anti-muslim signs on its storefront window now, an advocacy group has filed a complaint because of the store’s denial of service to muslims in the little mountain town of mayhill.
The council on american-islamic relations said the not welcome sign was anti-muslim and 'kill obama' and 'muslims not welcome here' signs in the mayhill, new. Dr asad islam, md is a geriatric psychiatry specialist in lewisville, tx and has been practicing for 14 years he graduated from dow medical college.
A convenience store in mayhill, new mexico has sparked outrage online for displaying racist, xenophobic and anti-muslim signs in its store front window while also generating huge debate about the limits of the first amendment right to free speech. Anti-muslim anti-obama bigotry cair convenience store discrimination discriminatory first amendment rights mayhill muslim ban new mexico nm prejudice racist signs.
One new mexico convenience store really, really does not like president obama the tiny mayhill convenience store is now under new scrutiny for its years-long pattern of bashing obama — plus muslims, blacks and democrats in general — in inflammatory signs that call for deaths and deportations. (washington, dc, 12/13/2017) – the council on american-islamic relations (cair), the nation’s largest muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced the filing of a human rights discrimination complaint with the state of new mexico department of workforce solutions against a.
13 reviews of mayhill convenience store great convenience storemake amerikkka great again the windows were plastered with anti muslim and anti obama signs. Faculty of sprees michael denner mayhill fowler mayhill fowler tentatively titled encounters at the edge of the muslim world email: [email protected] A convenience store in mayhill, new mexico has sparked outrage online for displaying racist, xenophobic and anti-muslim signs in its store front window while also generating huge debate about the limits of the first amendment right to free. Mayhill convenience store, mayhill mccaslin walker — 1 star as an american with the muslim religion as my faith posts about mayhill convenience store.
2018. All Rights Saved


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Bugatti President Stephan Winkelmann will also become head of luxury brand Automobili Lamborghini, taking on a double role from December, parent group Audi said on Wednesday.
The move comes at a time when Audi's owner Volkswagen is legally separating its Lamborghini supercar and Ducati motorbike brands, as it seeks to streamline its operations and focus on mass-producing electric cars.
1498 cc|Petrol|Automatic (Dual Clutch)
As Lamborghini chief, Winkelmann will succeed Stefano Domenicali, who will move to the Formula One as head of racing, Audi said.
This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.


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Bethenny Frankel might have released a recipe book called Skinnygirl Cocktails, but it’s this shocking picture everyone is talking about! The Real Housewives of New York City star posted a photo of herself with her new book to her official Facebook page, before deleting it … [Read more...] about The Picture Bethenny Frankel Didn’t Want You To See – WE HAVE DELETED IMAGE
New reports in this week's Star magazine about Nicole Richie claim that she is becoming "scary skinny" and "won't stop cleansing" after she was photographed leaving a store with a bag of what appears to be "UltraCleanse Plus" shake mix. A source claims that Nicole's husband … [Read more...] about Nicole Richie Is “Scary Skinny” And “Won’t Stop Cleansing”!!
Guiliana Rancic has always been very slim but now she has lost even more weight, sparking concern at the E! 2013 Upfront event held at the Manhattan Center in New York on Monday. Her slinky black dress showed off her shrinking frame and limbs. When she turned to the side to … [Read more...] about Giuliana Rancic Has Lost Even More Weight (shocking new pixs)


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Report: 2021 Ferrari F16X Will Be Ferrari's First Off-Roader, SUV, Crossover, CUV, or Whatever Prancing Horse Designation Fits
Ah, it’s all coming together now. The FF was a trojan horse.
If the 2021 Ferrari F16X comes to fruition, it will be over the proverbial dead bodies of all those Ferrari executives who have denied the possibility of a Ferrari SUV. “We will not play with SUVs,” current CEO Sergio Marchionne said earlier this year in Geneva. “It’s not that we’re not planning an SUV for now — we’re not planning one at all,” former CEO Amadeo Felisa said in Frankfurt in 2015.
But a Ferrari SUV has nevertheless been long rumored, and the rumors were stoked when marketing chief Nicola Boari discussed at length earlier this year the way in which a Ferrari SUV would need to create a new segment.
Indeed, according to CAR, Ferrari’s first foray into the utility vehicle arena will be different: aluminum architecture, suicide doors sans B-pillars, a likely hybrid powertrain, and a price tag of roughly $350,000.
A few months back, Bertel decreed that TTAC would have no more duplicate reviews. If we wanted to test a car that had already been reviewed, we’d better have a dramatically different take on it. I had a FIAT 500 Abarth for the week. Jack and Alex had already covered it on track and off. I thought someone had a comparison with the MINI Cooper S on the way. What else could I possibly compare the Abarth to that would make sense? It’s not like there are any other high-performance Italian hatchbacks offered in North America…
Latest Car ReviewsRead more
Latest Product ReviewsRead more
- 28-Cars-Later Sad to see Honda sink so low.
- Tassos While it is understandable for an impressionable 4 year old (especially if the kid is not very bright) to be a big fan of this utterly ridiculous rolling ad for one of the WURST (pun intended), nutritionally poor and utterly tasteless (try a real good sausage once in your life and you will see what I mean) junk food, it sure is not normal to see adults take notice of the same crappy food and ridiculous contraption.In short, why the hell is this utter "kitsch" newsworthy?
- Ravenuer So what was wrong with wienermobile, anyway?
- Sayahh They tried New Coke playbook but nobody cared before nor after the name/formula change here.
- Kcflyer Can they delete the hideous cladding? Addition by subtraction


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REUTERS/Brian SnyderFacebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg speaks to reporters at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts November 7, 2011.
NOW WATCH: Tech Insider videos
Want to read a more in-depth view on the trends influencing Australian business and the global economy? BI / Research is designed to help executives and industry leaders understand the major challenges and opportunities for industry, technology, strategy and the economy in the future. Sign up for free at research.businessinsider.com.au.


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|Hikvision releases Fisheye Dewarping Solution for Milestone XProtect customers|
Reinforcing the benefits of security technology collaboration, Hikvision, the supplier of video surveillance products and solutions, has announced a Multiple Fisheye...
|Genetec announces launch of Citigraf: New public safety decision support system|
Genetec Inc., a technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, has announced the launch of its new public...
|Johnson Controls HD analogue video solution offers alternative to IP cameras|
Johnson Controls introduces its HD Video Solution, a new value-based solution that provides superior video quality while leveraging analogue infrastructure. The...


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By freaks, for freaks
The card-drawing, gun-blasting, speedrunning FPS Neon White is coming in hot. Annapurna Interactive and the dev team announced Neon White is landing on PC and Nintendo Switch next week, June 16.
Neon White is the new game from Donut County developer Ben Esposito and the crew at Angel Matrix. Rather than a cozy game about swallowing the world up, Neon White is about speed, execution, and anime. Just big anime vibes.
The demo for it really spoke to me earlier this year, with its mix of precision FPS running and social sim side-ventures. It won’t be long until it’s out and playable too.
Neon White hits Nintendo Switch and PC on June 16, 2022.


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- smt007 Magazine
Latest IssuesCurrent Issue
Boost Your Sales
Every part of your business can be evaluated as a process, including your sales funnel. Optimizing your selling process requires a coordinated effort between marketing and sales. In this issue, industry experts in marketing and sales offer their best advice on how to boost your sales efforts.
This issue takes stock of the current economic outlook and how companies are using current conditions to move themselves through technological evolutions, workforce shifts, and financial changes. Even with these headwinds, there’s forward progress to be made.
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- smt007 Magazine
YES (Yarbrough Electronics Sales) Adds New AOI EquipmentNovember 4, 2019 | Yarbrough Electronics Sales, Inc.
Estimated reading time: Less than a minute
Darrel Yarbrough, founder and president of YES (Yarbrough Electronics Sales) announced that his company has added a new AOI capabilities with the Nordson Yestech Model FX.
When making the announcement, Mr. Yarbrough said, “This is another key piece of equipment that we bought this year as we continue to grow our business. Our goal is to be the best equipped contract manufacturer in our area. After a diligent search, we are pleased to say that we chose what we consider the best AOI equipment model on the market today.”
About Yarbrough Electronic Sales
Yarbrough Electronics Sales, Inc. is a contract manufacturer for the medical, military, homeland security, and industrial communities. For over 30 years, we have established a reputation for high quality, flexibility, and responsibility to our customers. We are committed to solving the challenges facing the domestic electronics industry.
IPC White Paper Emphasizes the Critical Importance of Data Analytics for the Electronics Manufacturing Process02/26/2024 | IPC
The increasing complexity of electronics manufacturing requires embracing data analytics to manage electronics factories, according to a new white paper from IPC’s Chief Technologist Council (CTC), Outlook for Data Analytics in the Electronics Manufacturing Industry.
ROCKA Solutions is excited to announce that Justin Worden, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, will present at the upcoming SMTA Dallas Expo & Tech Forum. The event is scheduled to take place Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at the Plano Event Center.
KYZEN, the global leader in innovative environmentally friendly cleaning chemistries, is thrilled to announce the premier of a new online video series “Ask Dr. Adam.”
I-Connect007 has just released the latest episode of its podcast series, On the Line with..., which focuses on designing for reality in the electronics industry. In this episode, host Nolan Johnson talks with ASC Sunstone VP/Manager Matt Stevenson about CAD tool features and data formats that help designers make better decisions and transfer better designs to manufacturing.
TT Electronics, a leading provider of global manufacturing solutions and engineered technologies, proudly announces the grand opening of its newest manufacturing facility located in Mexicali, Mexico.


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You can also check out local Bitcoin Meetups in your area. CoinDesk 25 - October 1, 2020, SF Blockchain Week 2020, San Francisco California, United States. Sep 16, 2019 Bitcoin Exchanged for Weed Cannabis on a cash-only basis is risky, and for local tax collectors, it is expensive and time-consuming. Dec 13, 2019 A federal indictment in California of a 23-year-old Westmoreland order to take control of cellphones and steal cryptocurrency such as bitcoin. Coinme is the safest and easiest way to buy bitcoin with locations near you. In minutes you can purchase your digital THE LARGEST BITCOIN ATM AND KIOSK NETWORK IN THE WORLD 155 W California Blvd Pasadena, CA 91105. California Website Designer Accepts Bitcoin Payments come from any part of the world with the same ease as it is in the case of business from local sources.
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Tribune News Service
Srinagar, September 27
Stating that they had suffered immense losses this season, walnut growers have urged the government to introduce a similar scheme for them as was implemented recently for apple traders.
“This season walnuts have been affected by a disease and the yield has not been satisfactory either. On top of that, we have not been able to sell our remaining produce due to the present situation. The government should introduce a scheme in our favour so that we get compensated. They should introduce a similar scheme as was introduced recently for apple growers and buy walnuts from us directly,” said Abdul Majeed, who was part of a group of walnut growers.
The government recently introduced a scheme to buy apples directly from the growers for exports in an effort to nullify the role of the middlemen. The scheme was also introduced in the backdrop of fruit growers, especially apple traders finding it difficult to sell their produce in view of the prevailing situation following the abrogation of Article 370.
As business activities have remained affected since August 5, fruit mandis too had remained closed and fruit growers by and large were finding it difficult to sell their produce.
Same scheme as apple growers
Walnut growers say the government should introduce a similar scheme as was introduced recently for apple farmers and buy walnuts from the growers directly
Crop hit by disease
The season’s walnuts have been affected by a disease and the yield has not been satisfactory and the produce has not been sold due to the abrogation of Article 370.
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Categories: autonomy & technology
Seeing Stars: Top safety performers revealed in latest Euro NCAP results
All six vehicles in the most recent round of Euro NCAP testing announced today have achieved four or five-star ratings
Latest Euro NCAP gradings show Nissan and Volkswagen are bringing high-performance Assisted Driving to the mainstream
The latest round of Euro NCAP results feature assessment of four new cars with ‘Level 2’ Assisted Driving systems.
COMMENT: Thatcham Research responds to Highway Code changes designed to bring ‘self-driving revolution’ closer
Thatcham Research responds to Highway Code changes designed to bring ‘self-driving revolution’ closer
DS and Honda models perform well in latest safety testing, Dacia Jogger awarded one-star rating
Dacia Jogger produces it’s second vehicle to be awarded one-star safety rating
COMMENT: Mercedes-Benz to accept liability for accidents when Automated Driving System engaged
Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will accept legal responsibility for collisions that occur in cars fitted with an ‘L3’ Automated Lane Keeping System, when directly caused by a fault with its technology but not when the driver has "failed to comply with their duty of care".
With this news representing another significant milestone on the road towards Automated Driving, Matthew Avery, chief
Thatcham Research comment: First car safety testing results for 2022 set positive tone
This first set of Euro NCAP results for 2022 represents a great start to the year from a safety perspective
WTW partners with Thatcham Research to help insurers adapt to new vehicle technology challenge
WTW and Thatcham Research have announced a new partnership
COMMENT: Law Commission report marks necessary step on the journey to safe Automated Driving on UK roads
The Law Commissions have today (26 January 2022) published a joint report, recommending the introduction of a new Automated Vehicles Act to ensure the safe adoption of vehicles with self-driving capability.
CHARGING AHEAD: Gridserve wins 2022 What Car? Innovation Award, in association with Thatcham Research
Gridserve beats BMW and Hyundai to claim innovation accolade
Nissan Qashqai sets the safety benchmark, winning What Car? Safety Award sponsored by Thatcham Research
Nissan’s Qashqai is pound-for-pound the UK’s safest car in 2022.
Thatcham Research reveals the UK’s safest new cars of 2021
Year’s best performers across tough Euro NCAP and Thatcham Research testing revealed
BMW iX3 emerges as top performer in latest Assisted Driving Gradings
Latest assessments show some VMs getting Assisted Driving tech implementation and marketing right
Zenzic and Thatcham Research reveal plans for Automated Driving System consumer ratings
UK leads development of future independent consumer safety rating scheme
World-first consumer rating to support the safe introduction, adoption and use of Automated Driving Systems on UK roads – starting with Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS)
Project brings together globally renowned experts via Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) Testbed UK partners
Zenzic, the organisation dedicated
All-electric VW ID.3 cruises to What Car? Car of the Year Safety Award success, while Tesla takes home Technology Award
Thatcham Research reveals the winners of the What Car? Safety Award and Technology Award
World’s first Assisted Driving Grading unveiled
Thatcham Research has worked with Euro NCAP to grade the Assisted Driving systems on 10 new cars, to provide much-needed clarity to motorists regarding the capability and performance of current assisted systems.
Tesla Model 3 sets new safety technology benchmark in Euro NCAP testing
Results for the latest cars to be rated against Euro NCAP’s most demanding tests to date have been announced today. Cars from DS, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Škoda and Tesla all achieved the maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating for safety.
Thatcham Research welcomes 5StarS’ assurance framework for connected and autonomous vehicle cybersecurity
The 5StarS consortium has launched its proposed assurance framework for connected and autonomous vehicle cybersecurity
Clean sweep of five-star cars means drivers have never been safer
Cars from Audi, Lexus, Mazda, Renault, Toyota and Volkswagen all achieved the maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating for safety.
DLG Auto Services’ Nemhoy McCooty named Thatcham Research Apprentice Mentor of the Year
Apprentice Mentor of the Year Award celebrates the positive impact mentors have on apprentices while on their ‘learner journey’


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Playtech Acquires Aristocrat Lotteries - SYS-CON Media (press release)
2 Sep 2014 at 11:14am
GGRAsiaPlaytech Acquires Aristocrat LotteriesSYS-CON Media (press release)Playtech, the international designer, developer and licensor of software and services for the online, mobile, TV and land-based gaming industry, has entered into an agreement with global content and systems provider Aristocrat Leisure Limited to ...Aristocrat sells lotteries business for US$13.8 mlnGGRAsiaPlaytech Acquire Aristocrat Lotteries for ?10.5 MillionPokerNews.comAristocrat sells lotteries businessThe West Australianall 36 news articles »
Georgia Lottery fights federal proposal to outlaw online gaming - Atlanta Jou...
22 Aug 2014 at 11:58am
Georgia Lottery fights federal proposal to outlaw online gamingAtlanta Journal Constitution (blog)The Georgia Lottery Corporation began to sell tickets online in November 2012, making it one of the nation's first lotteries to expand sales to the Internet. The lottery put together a fact sheet it sent to supporters warning that the lottery would be ...
Today in the press - RTE.ie
19 Aug 2014 at 8:49am
Today in the pressRTE.ieIn addition, it expressed concern the National Lottery's new online channel would divert sales away from traditional retail agents. In its letter, RGData asked PLI to quantify the extent to which the growth in online sales would cannabalise the ...and more »
West Virginia Lottery Exploring Online Gambling Options - Bluff Magazine
27 Aug 2014 at 5:55pm
West Virginia Lottery Exploring Online Gambling OptionsBluff MagazineOn Tuesday, West Virginia's Lottery Director Lottery, John Musgrave informed the Lottery Commission that representatives had met with key casino personnel to discuss the state's online gaming options according to the Charleston Daily Mail. Musgrave was ...and more »
State Lotteries Speak out against Federal iGaming Ban - 4Flush.com
11 Aug 2014 at 3:18pm
4Flush.comState Lotteries Speak out against Federal iGaming Ban4Flush.comDE gambling Online gambling is a hot topic of debate in the US with those who are for the option and those who are against constantly going back and forth. Making the headlines as of late is the discussion of a proposed federal ban on online gambling.Lotto Directors Oppose Nationwide Web Gambling BanCardPlayer.comall 2 news articles »
State Lotteries Increase Use of Loyalty Programs - NACS Online
15 Aug 2014 at 2:02pm
State Lotteries Increase Use of Loyalty ProgramsNACS Online?CINCINNATI ? State-run lotteries have been around for a half-century, currently available in 44 states, but only recently have some of those lotteries started to implement loyalty programs, according to a report from Colloquy. In fact, when the Ohio ...
Online gambling and state lotteries should be left up to the states?not Congr...
11 Aug 2014 at 3:45am
Online gambling and state lotteries should be left up to the states?not CongressCanada Free PressWASHINGTON - From public education to increasing economic development to promoting health and public wellness to funding programs for veterans and senior citizens, state lotteries across the country have contributed billions of dollars to make our ...
State Lotteries Nationwide Trying to Attract Young Players - NACS Online
5 Aug 2014 at 5:27am
State Lotteries Nationwide Trying to Attract Young PlayersNACS Online?RALEIGH, N.C. ? Throughout the country, state lotteries are trying to engage 20- and 30-somethings to become interested in the lottery, but it's been a challenge. Lottery officials are hoping that mobile apps, websites and altruistic cause-based ...U.S. Lotteries Must Change Tactics to Attract Younger Players - World Lottery ...World Lottery Newsall 10 news articles »
Lottery Directors Oppose Online Gambling Ban - Casino.Org News
12 Aug 2014 at 4:02pm
Casino.Org NewsLottery Directors Oppose Online Gambling BanCasino.Org NewsThe statement pointed out that while many states do not offer online lottery products (such as Internet ticket sales), others do, and each state should be able to make their own decision on what was right for their own citizens. It also pointed out ...Negative effects of online gambling ban highlightedGamingTodaySlotsTodayM J Antony: Stand-off on the lottery tradeBusiness StandardPolice vehicle, lottery, biking criticizedGreat Falls Tribune (blog)all 9 news articles »
How the Web is Transforming the Lottery Industry - Business 2 Community
7 Aug 2014 at 2:15am
Business 2 CommunityHow the Web is Transforming the Lottery IndustryBusiness 2 CommunityInternet-based sales is transforming a centuries-old industry: by changing the distribution model (most lotteries have no control over messenger companies that sell online), and by removing geographic barriers that previously gave these state ...


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Gaining Clarity: Evolving your Brand
Making sure you and your customers understand your business
Friday, June 07, 2013 7:00 AM
Beth Cross said she knew it in her heart.
Cross, the CEO of Alt Studios, which was formerly known as Innova Ideas and Services, started to see the signs. The print design industry was changing. Clients were asking for different things.
It was time to rebrand the company.
So Innova changed its name to Alt Studios, changed its focus from print design to a three-pillar approach to client service of “digital, creative and strategy,” and transformed itself into an entirely new company.
“It just became clear that if we didn’t change, if we didn’t offer what our clients wanted, they would go elsewhere,” Cross said. “So we had to step up our game.”
Innova is one of two local companies that recently announce a major rebranding initiative. UnityPoint Health is the other.
Innova’s approach was as much about changing the company itself as it was about changing the perception of the company.
For many companies, said Mike Schreurs, CEO of Strategic America, rebranding is about changing the way a company expresses itself to its target customers. Strategic America is currently helping 10 to 12 companies with rebranding efforts, he said.
The Business Record took a closer look at companies that are going through rebranding process, and with the help of experts put together tips on when and how to go through the process.
When is the time right to rebrand?
“It usually is not a matter of choosing to do it,” said Schreurs. “It usually is that something has changed in the category or the environment.” Typically, clients choose to rebrand when something has changed either with a company’s competition, the market, or even its target demographic.
Before deciding to rebrand, companies should ask themselves a few due diligence questions, Schreurs said. Among them:
• “What’s happened in terms of sales?”
• “What’s happened in terms of market share?”
• “Is the market engaging properly or are you losing some engagement opportunities, and if you are, what’s it look like?”
• “Are there key performance indicators that you are watching that seem to be moving in the wrong direction?”
As Cross says, your clients will usually let you know. With Innova, she said, there were some things that customers asked for that the company couldn’t do, and other things that the company could do that clients just weren’t aware of. That led to missed opportunities simply because the company had the necessary expertise, but “we weren’t thought of that way.”
Best practices in rebranding
Take your time. Drew McLellan, owner of McLellan Marketing Group and a Business Record columnist, cautions that rebranding is not a month-long process. A company should take a year or longer to truly revamp the brand. Alt Studios’ efforts took about two years, as did UnityPoint’s efforts.
Involve your employees. Rebranding isn’t a senior-management-only project; it takes input and buy-in from people all throughout the organization, a belief pretty well shared by everyone interviewed. Employees “really have to be the advocates of the brand,” said Katy Lachky, vice president of communications at the shoe manufacturer Crocs, which kicked off a rebranding initiative in 2012.
Test your ideas. Schreurs points out the example of J.C. Penney Company Inc., which recently announced a first quarter loss of $348 million. The company has gone through a number of rebranding campaigns in recent years, one of which focused on getting rid of discounts and coupons and focusing on opening multiple in-store boutiques. It sounded like a good idea, Schreurs said, “but they forgot to test it. And the testing of it would have led them to understand, ‘Hey, our customers really do still like promotions.’”
Market the campaign, but remember that it isn’t just about a new logo. That’s window-dressing, not branding, said McLellan. “Real branding requires a look at every element of infrastructure in the company,” McLellan said. Adds Schreurs, “An advertising or promotional campaign is made to primarily sell product, or make an event more successful. But a branding campaign allows a way for all information to be generally aggregated and to build equity upon a truth that is carried in the heart and mind of a target consumer.” That said, a rebranding initiative typically does include some sort of advertising or promotional campaign, he said.
Three Rebranding Stories
Innova to Alt Studios
Why they did it:
About two years ago, Innova decided it was time to rebrand, CEO Beth Cross said. Innova, was founded in 1998 as a company owned by Sigler Co., and had been a print design agency. Ultimately, the company came to the conclusion that it had to focus on helping clients with a more holistic approach of creative solutions, brand strategy, digital focus and public relations. Innova was already doing some of those things, but not all clients and potential clients knew it. The company discovered it had to add some services.
Although Cross says she knew it was time for a change, she felt it was important to get the entire company involved to figure out exactly what that change needed to be. She started with a small group of 15 to 20 people who spent a few days discussing the initiative. Eventually, she got everyone in the company involved on one of five teams. Four of the five teams said Innova needed to become a new company.
In the meantime, Innova started adding employees with strategic talents that the company would need in the future, such as web designers, programmers, marketers and public relations experts.
The process was at times painful, Cross said. It required major restructuring, as the company trimmed itself from about 83 to 24 employees. A total of 28 landed at parent company Sigler Cos. Inc., but some lost their jobs while others left for new jobs.
Alt Studios, which is a metaphor for being a catalyst for change and an acronym for “art, logic, talent,” launched on May 1. Alt is now focused on sharing the reason for the change with its clients. Company officials say clients generally have an “aha” moment when they realize that the services Alt will offer that are different from those that had been provided by Innova. The next steps include further defining what size and type of clients the company wants to go after.
Iowa Health to UnityPoint
Why they did it:
For one thing, Iowa Health System was operating in Illinois as well as Iowa. The other reason for change was that care coordination is changing. Iowa Health has physician offices in hospitals, clinics and home health agencies. “We really needed to find a way to reform the payment models and those kinds of things, and better collaborate to keep people healthy,” said Laura Sinnard, director of communications and public relations. Iowa Health officials sought a branding strategy by thinking about what patients are looking for in health care, and what they wanted their experience to be. The goal became to show patients that “you are at the center of everything that we do.”
Iowa Health hired ZLR Ignition to help with the process. The two companies did research by holding focus groups with consumers, physicians and employees. In all, hundreds of people, maybe even a thousand, were involved, Sinnard said.
“We didn’t just say, let’s pick a name and throw an ad campaign together,” Sinnard said. “We took a lot of time.”
After coming up with potential names that weren’t already being used by other organizations, Iowa Health set out to decide which name best communicated that care revolves around patients. UnityPoint was a name that consumers in the focus groups said felt the best.
UnityPoint is planning to fully implement its brand over a three-year period, Sinnard said, in part because it takes time to do things such as change signs on buildings, and in part to help make sure employees really understand the reasons for the change.
“Many would say it’s a name change,” Sinnard said. “For us, it’s so much more than the name change.”
Why they did it:
When you think of Crocs, chances are the image of a colorful clog comes to mind. That’s been the company’s bread and butter throughout most of its existence, but today Crocs Inc. has more than 300 styles of shoes, said Katy Lachky, vice president of communications.
Lachky spoke on rebranding at an April American Advertising Federation event in Des Moines. The challenge, she said, is showing people what Crocs has to offer. The company has 90 percent brand recognition, she said, but most people don’t know that Crocs have any products besides its clog.
The company is in a three-year plan that kicked off in 2012. Last year, the goal was to let consumers know that “we’re more than a clog,” Lachky said. In 2013, it is to let people know that Crocs has footwear that they’d be interested in, even if they’ve never worn Crocs before.
What makes the process challenging is that the company is a global brand, with different management in different regions.
“Corporate devises a strategy and then regions do the local applications,” Lachky said. “So, for instance, none of our websites had kind of that same user predictability experience. ... So it’s allowing the brand to take ownership of the unique but predictable experience.”
Also important is marketing “through the clog,” which is still the most recognizable shoe the company has. That means using the most basic characteristic of the clog – comfort – and showing consumers that the company’s other shoes have that same characteristic.


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Rumor has it that Target and Kroger are talking about a merger. Citing unnamed sources, an article by Fast Company reports that the companies started discussing the prospect last summer, as the deal would be a boost to Target’s grocery business, while Kroger would reap the benefits of more merchandise and e-commerce.
However, CNBC is reporting that the two companies are not in talks to merge but rather are discussing Target’s acquisition of Shipt, a same-day delivery company, which occurred in December.
Find the fake news: This article is part of the Food Safety Tech April Fool’s edition. To find out which stories are fake and which are real, log onto our site on Monday afternoon (April 2) and click on each story for the update.You can also sound off in the comments section.
Think this is the fake news? Wrong! Here’s our April Fool’s story.


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In July 2010, we compared Google to the Wild West in our post "The Wild West and Google Places (Local Business Listings) - Google's Sheriffs Are on Patrol". In our article, we underlined Google Places as the "wild west" of online marketing because at that time there did not appear to be any concrete rules
In the Internet and Big Data Era, where information is launched and never vanishes, it could be arduously difficult to erase any information from the World Wide Web. In the world of Internet Law, the “right to be forgotten” or “the right to oblivion” is defined as a person’s right to remove personal details and
As a part of international accords, a new Canadian Anti-Spam Law (CASL) will take effect on July 1, 2014 and will impact the entire email marketing and internet marketing industryin Canada. The CASL applies to any commercial electronic messages sent by companies in Canada from small to medium and large sized organisations, including non-profits and charities (there are some exceptions) as well as international companies doing business in Canada.
As the realm of Internet Law has been growing, though not nearly as fast as the Internet itself has, more and more people previously innocent are being brought to court for crimes that they are innocently unaware of. Take the case of first-year Carleton University journalism student Zack Bradley from Oshawa, who at age 20 is still a kid, though technically not a minor. He, like many sports fans, decided to rail on sports players and GMs alike, and apparently got on the bad side with ex-Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke. So, what's wrong with blogging and expressing a little freedom of speech? Apparently, a lot.


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New Delhi, Jewellery stocks today took a sharp hit and closed the day with up to 14 per cent losses following the government’s move to withdraw notes of higher denominations.
Shares of Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri slumped 14 per cent, Thangamayil Jewellery 12.05 per cent, PC Jeweller 9.19 per cent, Shree Ganesh Jewellery House 7.64 per cent on BSE.
“Jewellery companies will also get impacted as they see slowdown in sales,” said Kalmesh Rao, CEO, Kotak Securities.
Sentiment took a hit following the government’s surprise move to ban Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in a bid to curb black money, triggering all-round selling, dragging down the key indices form their key levels.
The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex ended with a loss of 338.61 points at 27,252.53 after falling 1,688.69 points during the day.
“This is a rare and blackswan event for the country. On markets, this will have a long-term positive effect. A lot of flow and liquidity will be directed and brought in the economy,” said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research Pvt.
India is the world’s largest gold consumer and imports a sizeable chunk of its total annual consumption of around 900-1,000 tonnes.PTI


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Having lived with the pandemic for over two years, it is safe to say COVID-19 has become the key driver for most changes happening in and around our lives. The 2021 holiday season will be different in many ways, enabling a few industries to flourish more than others. Changing consumer habits, pent-up demand, and greater adoption of online shopping are driving these industries’ right to succeed. But that does not mean all brands are winning. Only a few are successfully leveraging the new normal and creating benchmarks in consumer engagement for others to follow and learn.
ADMERASIA, in partnership with G & Co., presents trends, case studies, and opportunities for five industries* that are winning the 2021 holiday shopping season and beyond. Click here to download the report.
*At-Home Entertainment, Beauty & Personal Care, Cross-Border eCommerce, Home Décor, Luxury
Audience Insights Manager&
Racism Is Contagious by ADMERASIA – a platform that provides consolidated, impactful tools to combat the spread of hate crimes against the Asian American community. Visit https://racismiscontagious.com/ to learn more.
ADMERASIA’s winning spot, INVISIBLE, shows why it is time to tell better stories about Asian Americans. Take the pledge. Visit www.threeinfive.com to know more.


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Two thirds of the US economy depends on consumer spending, and credit cards account for a big proportion of that. But with more and more people struggling to pay their bills, credit card companies are now making it harder. Is anyone looking out for consumers? Is there a need for reform? Also, AIG audaciously issues $165 million in bonus payments, and the Irish language, called Gaelic in the US, is one of thousands of endangered languages.
The Credit Card Economy Comes Home to Roost
From this Episode:
AIG Audaciously Issues 165 Million Dollars in Bonus Payments
Yesterday, Obama administration officials went on TV to deplore the revelation that $165 million in taxpayer dollars will be used for executive bonuses at the failed...
As the world prepares for another St. Patrick's Day, the traditional Irish language is appearing on green T-shirts and being mangled in pubs. But Irish, or Gaelic, is one of...


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Complete systems specialist Fischer Panda UK say the rise in interest in electric propulsion in the inland waterways sector helped drive a record number of visitors to its new demo trailer at this year’s Crick Boat Show.
With more boat owners looking for alternatives to traditional petrol or diesel drive systems, Fischer Panda’s comprehensive range of battery, parallel hybrid and generator supported electric propulsion systems combined with its full-system capabilities and service support attracted more enquiries than ever before over the Bank Holiday weekend.
In addition, visitors were also able to view a Fischer Panda UK-supplied system onboard an Elton Moss boat at the show, with installed equipment including a Bell Marine 20kW motor with a parallel function working alongside an existing engine, Fischer Panda AGT 13000 DC 48v generator and Dometic reverse cycle air conditioning system
Chris Fower, Sales and Marketing Director, Fischer Panda UK, said: “We brought our upgraded display trailer to the show for the first time and the feedback from customers was fantastic. It made a real difference for people to be able to experience the sound, operation and functionality of the products and equipment in this setting. Everyone that came onboard was impressed with the system approach offered by Fischer Panda UK and said we really simplified what can seem to be a confusing subject at first.
“Crick Boat Show is always a key event for us, so we are delighted that it was our most successful in terms of visitors and enquiries. We have several follow up meetings with boatbuilders and customers in the pipeline to discuss new opportunities around our electric propulsion capabilities.”
Marking its 25th anniversary year, Fischer Panda UK enjoyed its most high-profile presence yet at the annual May event, highlighting its marine generators, electric propulsion and integrated systems.
The Fischer Panda UK trailer will also be at this year’s Southampton Boat Show on Stand E020.


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2020 is off to a great start for Retail Associates
It’s been a very busy start to the year for our team here at Retail Associates.
We’re delighted to announce two new product launches, including a new external freezer refurbishment service and a budget kiosk front line.
Our team have been very busy preparing for the Nisa Expo on March 24th and 25th. We will be exhibiting at the event and we look forward to launching our brand new budget kiosk front line exclusively at the Nisa Expo 2020.
We also had the pleasure of attending EuroShop, the world’s number 1 retail trade fair. The event which showcases the best of retail marketing, retail technology, lighting, visual merchandising, shop fitting & store Design as well as refrigeration and food service equipment solutions, saw some of the most prominent industry leaders share their invaluable insights into the future of our industry and our team left the event with a host of new ideas and solutions that we hope to bring to customers in the near future.
We will also be attending the National Convenience Show once again this year, and although our team won’t be exhibiting we’d still love to meet and have a chat to see how we can help you solve your retail needs.
If you’re also attending this year’s National Convenience Show and would like to speak to a member of our team please call Julie Willis 07850 774 826.
Our engineers have also been extremely busy following a roll out for one of our clients, which has seen our team work on 165 sites, assisting with the installation of self-checkouts, as well as providing the client with our own bespoke cable management solution.
We’re also delighted to announce that we have expanded our service across the Crawley region which has resulted in a new field service engineer joining the team, whilst Liam Jones, our new Design Engineer, has joined the team at our Head Office in Warrington.
It’s been a fantastic start to 2020 and we look forward to the rest of the year and meeting lots of clients and customers, both new and existing.
You can keep up to date with all our latest news by signing up to our newsletter, or visit our blog section by clicking here.


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Lenovo Reportedly Negotiating Purchase of Lexmark
According to these sources, Lenovo is currently negotiating the purchase with Goldman Sachs, which is representing Lexmark, and with Lexmark management. In the past, Lenovo has purchased several distressed businesses, including IBM’s Think Pad and server businesses, and Motorola.
In October 2015, Lexmark announced that it had hired the investment firm Goldman Sachs to “explore strategic alternatives,” and in the company’s earnings call for third-quarter 2015, Lexmark management said these alternatives could include a possible sale of the entire company or part of it.
In July 2015, Lexmark CEO Paul Rooke said Lexmark would cut 500 positions worldwide, and then last month, the firm announced that it would eliminate another 550 positions.
- February 2016: Slow Quarter for Lexmark; Job Cuts Planned; ‘Positive Interest’ for Possible Sale
- February 2016: Canon, Ricoh May be Seeking to Acquire Lexmark’s Printer/Copier Group
- January 2016: Lexmark Revamps A4 Color Printer/MFP Lineup in a Big Way; Includes New ‘Light Production’ 60-PPM A4 CX860 Copier/MFP
- January 2016: Lexmark Said to Be Considering Separate Sales of Its Printer/Copier and Software Groups
- October 2015: Lexmark Reports Third-Quarter Results; Exploring ‘Strategic Alternatives’; Sale Rumored
- July 2015: Revenue Flat for Lexmark, Announces Restructuring Plan and 500 Job Cuts
- May 2015: Lexmark Completes Kofax Acquisition; Bish is New President of Lexmark Enterprise Software Division
- April 2015: Lower Revenue at Lexmark for First Quarter, But Meets Earnings Forecast


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San Francisco: A day after South Korean giant Samsung launched Galaxy S10 5G smartphone at a packed event here, US President Donald Trump on Thursday said American companies must step up their efforts or get left behind.
In a tweet, Trump said he wants 5G, and even 6G, to be rolled out in the US as soon as possible.
“I want 5G, and even 6G, technology in the United States as soon as possible. It is far more powerful, faster and smarter than the current standard,” the US President tweeted.
“American companies must step up their efforts, or get left behind. There is no reason that we should be lagging behind on…,” he added.
His comments came a day after Samsung showcased the Galaxy S10 5G smartphone here.
“Samsung is putting the power of 5G in consumers’ hands with Galaxy S10 5G, Samsung’s first flagship 5G smartphone,” said the company.
With Galaxy S10 5G, consumers on a 5G network can download a full season of a TV show in minutes, play graphics-rich cloud games with virtually no lag, enjoy enhanced virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences and stay in touch with friends and family via real-time 4K video calls.
Trump’s concerns are real as after the US telecom carrier Verizon announced a 5G-enabled smartphone with Samsung, AT&T has also announced plans to grow its mobile 5G device line-up with a 5G smartphone from the South Korean giant in the first half of 2019.
AT&T is also working with Samsung to create America’s first manufacturing-focused 5G Innovation Zone.
Verizon and Samsung in December announced to jointly launch one of the first commercials of 5G-enabled smartphones in the US in the first half of 2019.
Samsung has also partnered with major European operators to deliver true 5G connectivity on its latest flagship smartphone.
“Samsung is proud to be making 5G a reality for European consumers by collaborating with some of our most trusted operator partners to introduce Galaxy S10 5G to the market this summer,” said DJ Koh, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), IT and Mobile Communications Division, Samsung Electronics.


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As a sales and marketing executive at a small apparel company, Adam Goldberg feels responsible for keeping a lid on airline costs. But since his business trips are almost always last-minute, round-trip airfares often cost him as much as $2,000.
Mr. Goldberg may have found a solution, however. By switching from his usual carrier to tiny Frontier Airlines, which recently introduced two daily nonstop flights between New York's La Guardia Airport and Denver, he hopes to save his company, Great Neck, L.I.-based NPI Inc., thousands of dollars a year.
"With Frontier, I can pay as little as $169 one-way to Denver," says Mr. Goldberg, who figures he will save $10,000 this year by flying 3 1-2-year-old Denver-based Frontier instead of United Airlines, the dominant carrier for the La Guardia-Denver route.
Tapping into frustration
By peddling fares that are as much as 60% cheaper than those offered by major airlines, a growing number of small companies are taking aim at the sizable number of New York business travelers who are fed up with record-high fares. Their hopes are not entirely unjustified.
A new survey of 1,200 corporate travel managers by the National Business Travel Association found that companies' use of low-cost carriers climbed from 30% in 1996 to 43.5% in 1997. Not coincidentally, the rise in the use of low-cost airlines, known as "upstart" carriers, corresponded with a 39% jump in the average cost of business fares.
Fleet of discount carriers
AirTran Airlines, which recently acquired ValuJet, introduced service at La Guardia in December. The Atlanta-based carrier flies six nonstops between New York and Atlanta, with prices ranging from $99 to $200 one-way.
The region's two other main airports, John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark International Airport, also house low-cost carriers, such as Vanguard Airlines, American Trans Air, Kiwi International Air Lines and Tower Air.
"I have no qualms about using them," says Susan Goldfarb, corporate travel director for Random House, which has been relying more on low-cost carriers to shuttle authors, salespeople and top executives around the country. "It's gotten ridiculous. The airlines are out of control."
While skyrocketing fares have many corporate travel managers wringing their hands, getting employees to switch to upstarts isn't easy. With few flights to even fewer destinations, they often fall short in one very important category: convenience. Unlike major carriers, small operators are less able to accommodate last-minute reservation changes or cancellations. They are also less able to offer such perks as hot meals or frequent-flier programs.
Even Tom Allee, national director of sales for Frontier, is willing to concede this point. Discount operators, he says, "are for the segment of road warriors who have some flexibility in their schedules."
As the Davids in a David-and-Goliath battle, upstarts face intense competition from their larger rivals. To compete with these pesky new entrants, major carriers have been moving downmarket by starting shuttle services. When United began losing money and market share to Southwest Airlines in 1994, it introduced a lower-cost shuttle service. Similarly, Delta Air Lines launched a Business Express service in Florida in 1996 to combat defections to an upstart carrier in that market.
"That's the ultimate weapon of the major carriers against the low-fare carriers," says a United spokesperson. "If we start losing market share, we'll put (a shuttle service) out East."
The biggest challenge facing low-fare airlines, however, may not be competition. One of the highly valued perks of business travel is frequent-flier miles. Getting executives to part with those miles and switch to airlines that don't have frequent-flier programs -- or offer scaled-down versions -- is a formidable task.
"Passengers don't want to give up the miles," says Nancy Leff, an agent associated with McCord Travel in Manhattan. "If they save the company $800, that's great for the company. But it's going to cost passengers their frequent-flier miles."
Despite the obstacles, low-fare carriers insist they have a viable product which is fast becoming attractive to companies. Frontier says 40% of its New York passengers are business travelers. Its goal is to raise that to 50% by stepping up its sales and marketing efforts. Frontier expects to add a third La Guardia-Denver flight later this year.
AirTran is also going after business travelers, having recently added a business-class section. It features wider seats, more leg room and upgraded service that is comparable with first class on other airlines. The cost for a one-way last-minute ticket from La Guardia to Atlanta? $225.
"The last time I checked, round-trip first-class between Atlanta and La Guardia on Delta was $1,400," says an AirTran spokeswoman.


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US probes effectiveness of Chrysler air bag recall
DETROIT - U.S. safety regulators are investigating whether a recall to fix air bags on nearly 745,000 Chrysler SUVs is working properly.
The company recalled older-model Jeep Grand Cherokees and Libertys in 2012 because the air bags could inflate without a crash, causing injuries.
Chrysler installed an electrical filter to eliminate electrical spikes on air bag circuits and thought that would solve the problem.
But since the recall, the company has received six reports of air bags inflating without a crash on SUVs that had the recall repairs.
No crashes were reported, but owners said there were some cuts and burns, according to documents posted Monday on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.
The safety agency says it's investigating whether the recall is working. Chrysler says it's cooperating but hasn't determined whether the recall is working.
The investigation affects Libertys from the 2002 and 2003 model years and Grand Cherokees from 2002 to 2004.
The company says customers with concerns can call (800) 853-1403.


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Most physicians favor state legislation that prohibits secondary sources, such as pharmacies, from selling prescribing information to data-mining companies for commercial purposes. However, 85% of doctors have no problem divulging their prescribing practices to the pharmaceutical industry through market research questionnaires. Those are some conclusions from a new Internet survey of physicians conducted by market research firm TNS Healthcare. TNS also found that to date, only a fraction of physicians (4%) have made use of AMA's opt-out program that keeps their prescribing information from being shared with pharmaceutical sales reps. The TNS study was conducted in January and covered 1,000 doctors.
To see more Hot off the Press news articles, click here.
To go to the Drug Topics homepage, click here.


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Washington's ski resorts finally get some snowon December 27, 2011 @ 5:33 am (Updated: 7:55 am - 12/27/11 )
Crystal Mountain received its best snow of the year Sunday night; nine inches had fallen by morning. More than 5,000 people took advantage of the fresh powder on Monday, which was Crystal's biggest day of the season so far.
The Summit at Snoqualmie reports two inches of new snow and Steven's Pass has four.
If you can't make it out there today, don't worry. There are a couple more storms in the forecast, which should produce new snow through next weekend.
KING-TV Meteorologist Jim Guy says snowfall by Tuesday night will be anywhere from four to ten inches in elevations higher than 3,000 feet.
Microsoft calls its new Xbox 'truly intelligent TV'
Amazon has new plans for huge biospheres on its new campus
Nature's Reality Check
We can conquer terrorism, cure cancer, but a tornado can remind us of our insecurity
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U.S. manufacturers continued to add jobs at a steady clip in September, even as hiring overall in the U.S. slowed, according to the latest jobs report from the Labor Department issued October 7th.
In September, U.S. manufacturers added another 22,000 new positions, adding to the 22,000 jobs the sector added in August. Meanwhile, the economy added 263,000 jobs overall in September, down from the 315,000 jobs gained in August.
Meanwhile, the latest Job Openings and Labor Turnover survey finds the number of job openings in manufacturing declined further to a preliminary 801,000 in August from in 943,000 in July (August JOLTS data is reported in October).
If you’re looking to help manufacturers with their staffing, workforce or automation needs, an IndustrySelect subscription can help you find new customers in the industrial world. Click here to try out a free demo.
Today, we’re exploring the most recent manufacturing numbers from the Labor Department, providing the gains and losses by specific subsector, as well as the latest in manufacturing job openings.
In September, manufacturing job gains were largely led by the durable goods sector, which increased by 16,000 jobs. Non-durable goods added another 6,000 jobs.
Gains in durable goods were led by transportation equipment, which added 8,400 jobs in September, and for a third straight month, the fabricated metals sector added a significant number of jobs, up by 6,300. Electrical equipment and supplies added 3,000 jobs, and wood products another 2,200.
On the non-durable durable goods side, job gains were overwhelmingly led by the food processing sector, up 7,800 jobs. This chemicals industry added another 3,400, while miscellaneous non-durable goods manufacturing added another 1,300.
Manufacturing job losses in September were led by printing and related support activities, down 4,300 jobs. Computer and electronic products declined by 1,700 jobs, and nonmetallic mineral products lost 1,500. Plastics and rubber products lost 1,400 jobs.
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The American big coffee chain is becoming mega and entering the home of the espressos.
So could this invasion of Starbucks into the Italian market will make the Italians jump into the Starbucks coffee bandwagon?
Well, we think that this is another milestone of the big chain entering into the land of where coffee is ingrain in their national culture where coffee is not a coffee with sugar.
The Starbucks company did not have a smooth sailing entering the Italian market before they got the sweet spot they endured setbacks and delays since it was first suggested more than two years ago. However this year, during Milan conference, Starbucks’ executive chairman, Howard Schultz, confirmed that the opening of the first ever Starbucks in Italy would go ahead in September.
The company has chosen a historic building on one of Milan’s grandiose squares where they planned to open its first foray into the home of the espresso.
The location was a high-end address in the city that was a former post office in Piazza Cordusio, near the Duomo.
Finally, the never-ending speculation of coffee lovers over the years about Starbucks entering the city has put an end. Though we know that Italians serve their coffee differently from which American culture used to have where an espresso or cappuccino can taste very different from the chain’s offerings, however, the people seem ready to try something new.
Paolo Nadalet, the president of the Italian Espresso National Institute, said: “We are really happy that a large company like Starbucks is coming to Italy because we think that the coffee it serves is not like an Italian espresso but is still coffee that tastes good.”
“And Milan is the right place to start: it’s close to fashion and other Italian ways of living, and for us, coffee is a way to live. Starbucks is doing its own job with its own philosophy, but it’s still very close to our culture in ensuring that its consumers have good coffee in their cups.”
Starbucks’ executive chairman, Howard Schultz reassured consumers that the big company is finally coming in Italy, “with humility and respect, to show what we have learned”.
Schultz said his vision started during the time he visited Italy in 1983. “My imagination was captured by Italian coffee.”
Starbucks dream to enter Italy came into reality with the help of Antonio Percassi, a former footballer and entrepreneur who was responsible for bringing the Spanish clothing chain Zara and the US lingerie retailer Victoria’s Secret to Italy.
There will be a tough competition between Starbucks and other coffee chains in Italy, especially people, are not used to what Starbucks has to offer, but Nadalet said he did not believe it would dent the local business.
“We have to increase our knowledge in coffee and I think Starbucks can help all other bars to improve on both service and taste,” he said. “Big chains are using our coffee machines worldwide, so this could be a big moment for the Italian market. Foreign companies want to open in Italy and we have to let them.”
So do you think Starbucks will surpass the espresso culture in Italy? Share us your thoughts about this news in the comment section below.


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Walmart raises one million dollars
For 24 years, Walmart Canada, through the Children’s Miracle Network, has been a tremendous partner of the IWK Foundation.
This past year, Walmart Canada stores across the Maritimes in partnership with you, their customers and the community, raised an amazing $1,006,097. This outstanding total made them the first-ever donor to present a cheque over $1 million on the IWK Telethon for Children on CTV.
IWK Run for Families
More than 5,000 people participated in the IWK Run for Families on the Confederation Bridge as part of BridgeFest 150 on June 18. Together, they raised over $223,000 for the IWK Foundation. With walkers and runners from every province, 16 US states – and even Germany and Australia – this event was the largest Canada 150 event east of Montreal. Wow!
IWK 250 laps the competition
Since 2007, stock car racing fans eagerly gather in Antigonish, NS at the Riverside International Speedway for the IWK 250 presented by Steve Lewis. Every year, a NASCAR driver is selected to drive the “Cat Car for Kids,” which is brought to the IWK Health Centre before the race so that patients can sign it. Over the last 11 years, the IWK 250 has helped raise awareness and more than $438,000 for the IWK.
Youth fundraising for the IWK
We are grateful for all our donors, especially our amazing youth. Every year, countless Maritime youth donate their birthday money or host a fundraiser for the IWK, proving there is no age limit on generosity.
One such donor is Mya Williamson from Moncton, NB. An IWK nephrology patient and brain tumor survivor, Mya raises money in a variety of ways, but most often by selling Brave Stones – magnets she hand paints with friends and family. This past February, Mya was the Change Challenge Hero for the Moncton Radiothon and raised $11,755.81, bringing her lifelong fundraising total for the IWK Foundation to over $30,000!


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Wipro comes on-board as Chelsea FC’s official Digital and IT Partner
Wipro Limited, a leading global information technology, consulting and business process services company, today announced that it has been chosen by Chelsea Football Club as its official digital and IT partner.
Chelsea FC, the reigning champions of the English Premier League, is one of the earliest adopters of digital to engage and differentiate themselves – both as a team and as a club. Wipro will support Chelsea FC in this transformation journey by bringing together strategy, design and technology.
The partnership will help Chelsea FC re-imagine the digital and technology experience. As one of the world’s leading sports brands, Chelsea FC will work with Wipro to create experiences for millions of fans that span not only the in-stadium, game-day experience but also their digital experience, anytime and anywhere.
Commenting on the partnership, Rajan Kohli, Senior Vice President and Global Head, Wipro Digital said, “Chelsea FC is renowned for its commitment to excellence and developing passionate fans across the world. Their confidence in Wipro Digital is a testament of our value proposition for global sports and gaming entities. Our unique ‘Customer Journey Engineering’ methodology will enable Chelsea FC to continue to be a preeminent digital brand.”
Christian Purslow, Managing Director, Chelsea FC said, “Wipro is a leading global company delivering world-class services that put their customers at the heart of everything they do – we plan on using this partnership to truly enhance the fan experience for millions of Chelsea supporters worldwide. Wipro’s expertise in building winning propositions that sit at the intersection of strategy, design and technology will help sustain our position as the digital leader in global sport.
It is also exciting for Chelsea FC to enter into a global partnership with Wipro given their significant presence and brand coverage in India – a market where we have over 50 million passionate supporters and where there is great potential to further build our fan base.”


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Published: 2017-10-24 11:18
Last Updated: 2017-10-24 12:19
A new “historic” tourist route transporting travellers from Israel, through Egypt, to Jordan was launched earlier this week, according to the Facebook page Israel in Jordan.
On Sunday, a luxurious cruise ship set sail from Jaffa Port, making its way through the Suez Canal to Egypt, before it heads to its final destination, Jordan, in the next 15 days.
Travellers who were lucky enough to take the cruise had to fork out $8,000 each for the 17-day trip. Seven out of the seventeen days will be spent at sea.
During the exciting journey, tourists will get to explore the West Bank, as well as Israel.
Palestinian writer and analyst, Fayez Abu Shamala, told online newspaper Arabi21 that Israelis will be offered safe accommodation during their stay in Jordan and Egypt.
Fifteen cruises are set to take off from Jaffa Port in the next few months and during 2018.


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Following a teaser a couple of weeks ago, Kia has now revealed the all-new 2019 Kia ProCeed ahead of its public debut at the Paris motor show next month. The new model is inspired by the stunning ProCeed Concept that debuted last year.
Like the concept, the new model takes on a shooting brake body profile. In other words, it’s kind of a sporty wagon that has some coupe and hot hatch appeal. And just like the new Ceed GT also revealed today, the new ProCeed will be a Europe-exclusive model.
It must be said, the exterior design is brilliant. At the front is a focused and pouncing face, while towards the back it forms into an elegantly sweeping, coupe-like profile. Kia says the mission was to combine the DNA of a coupe with the versatility of a wagon. It’s actually lower and longer than the Ceed five-door hatch and Sportswagon, too. Speaking about the design, Emilio Herrera, COO at Kia Motors Europe, said:
“The ProCeed takes the Ceed model family in a bold new direction. Where the Ceed Sportswagon majors on practicality, the ProCeed provides couples or young families with the space and versatility of a wagon, combined with an emotive, swept-back design. Where focusing on one of these normally compromises the other, the ProCeed is the first car in the mainstream segment to combine both.”
To add even more appeal, the new Kia ProCeed will be offered with the company’s traditional GT-Line package, which adds a range of sporty details. Kia will also offer a flagship variant called the GT, equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine producing 150kW and 265Nm.
Even in the mainstream lineup, the new model will be offered with a range of interesting engines. It all kicks off with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol producing 88kW and 172Nm. This is the same feisty engine offered in the Euro-spec Picanto GT-Line. Further along is a new 1.4-litre turbo that develops 103kW and 242Nm, while a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel generating 100kW and 280Nm rounds out the lineup.
For the interior there’s either a 7.0- or 8.0-inch touch-screen media interface, depending on the variant, packing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. A powerful JBL audio system will be on offer, as well as Normal and Sport driving modes via a Drive Mode Select system.
As mentioned, the Kia ProCeed will go on sale exclusively in Europe. Showroom entry is penned in to commence in the first quarter of 2019.


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Star Wars drone show lights up Oakland A's game
OAKLAND, Calif. - The Oakland RingCentral Coliseum lit up with a Star Wars-themed drone show.
There were 200 drones dancing in formation across the sky for A's fans during the home game against the New York Yankees on Friday night
The event was the first of its kind for Major League Baseball.
The light show featured Star Wars characters such as R2-D2 and Yoda.
SEE ALSO: Laid-off Tesla employee who hired bot to call EDD finally gets backpay
Another sequence showed a baseball bat morph into a light saber, one of the iconic weapons of the movie franchise, and a baseball transform into the Death Star.
"Of course, we had to start the show off with the Star Wars logo rising up from behind the stadium to start the show," said a message from Sky Element, the company that produced the performance.
Watch the full show on Sky Element's website.
Keep up with the news by downloading KTVU's news app and subscribing to our newsletter.


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New Delhi, Oct 12: India's retail inflation based on the consumer price index (CPI) for September increased to 4.41 per cent, from 3.74 per cent recorded for the previous month, on the back of higher food prices, official data showed on Monday.
The CPI for September last year was at 5.63 per cent.
Rural inflation in the month in question was higher at 5.05 per cent, over the urban CPI at 3.61 per cent, according to data released by the ministry of statistics.
Overall food inflation was higher in September, at 3.88 per cent compared to 2.20 per cent in August.
September's rural food inflation rate was 4.05 per cent as compared to 3.45 per cent for urban.


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It is no secret the economy is still in a bad state, and even though many sources claim it is on the rebound, countless employes lose their job everyday. Unfortunately, for workers at Sony Online Entertainment, they also have been affected by the declining economy.
So far this year, SOE has seen a lot of success with the release of DC Universe Online and Free Realms. Although these two titles were met with success, it still was not enough to save a huge chunk of the SOE staff. Reports from a Kotaku source has confirmed that closures would affect SOE’s studios in Seattle, Tucson, Ariz. and Denver, in addition to half of the staff at the Austin, Texas office, and a large amount at the San Diego studio. In total, reports are saying a third of SOE workforce will be let go.
This comes off the heals of a Twitter post from Duke Nukem Forever creator George Broussard:
Word that Sony Online Entertainment Seattle is having layoffs and that studio closure is possible.
He later wrote:
SOE Seattle and other studios (Denver is rumored) will be closed tomorrow. Good luck to all impacted.
There still has been no official word from SOE, but we will post any new info as it becomes available.


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The spicy McNuggets will be available in U.S. restaurants for a limited time starting Sept. 16, McDonald’s said in a news release. They will be accompanied by a new hot sauce.
“Breaded with a sizzling tempura coating made of both cayenne and chili peppers, these [are] craveable, dippable and downright delicious spicy chicken McNuggets,” the company said. “Our customers have been asking for spicy McNuggets for some time now.”
As for the sauce, “for those who care to dial up the heat, we’ve crafted our new mighty hot sauce, boasting a powerful blend of crushed red peppers and spicy chilis,” McDonald’s said.
“The new dipping sauce is both our first new sauce innovation since 2017 and the hottest one available at McDonald’s.”
To complement the heat of the nuggets, “we’re introducing the new Chips Ahoy! McFlurry, … featuring vanilla soft-serve, caramel topping and Chips Ahoy! cookie pieces blended throughout,” the company said.
Morningstar analyst R.J. Hottovy has largely positive views about McDonald’s.
“Although it faces increased competition, an uneven macro environment, evolving consumer views about menu composition and in-restaurant experience, and pandemic-related changes in consumer behavior, we believe it possesses a wide economic moat,’ he wrote in a commentary Aug. 11.
Hottovy puts fair value for the stock at $215.
The shares recently traded little changed at $212.50. McDonald’s has climbed 8% so far this year, topping the S&P 500 at 6%.


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“[L&I ETFs] were introduced in Hong Kong in 2016 and they are still at a very early stage. Now we see very high interest in Hang Seng, Hang Seng China Enterprises and Nasdaq products but they are basically all the products you can get,” said Frederick Chu, head of ETFs at China AMC in Hong Kong.
“What we need to see, in terms of the L&I products to grow a little bit more, is variety. So you can’t just have indexes like the Hang Seng or Nasdaq, you must have more [choices],” he added.
Citing figures from the Hong Kong Exchange, he said L&I products make up 2.5% of the ETF market in the SAR and therefore he’s optimistic about the potential for growth.
Leveraged ETFs amplify returns when an index rises as do inverse ETFs when an index falls, depending on the multiplier (2x, for example). But if an investor makes a bet in the wrong direction, it’s the losses that are amplified. The high risk products are best suited for daily trading.
“Hong Kong people like to trade. The retail investors here have a very high risk appetite, so when markets are volatile they like to trade in and out. So L&I ETFs can provide them with trading excitement,” Chu added.
In September, the firm’s ChinaAMC Direxion Nasdaq-100 Daily (-2x) Inverse Product was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX). It is the third inverse product listed in Hong Kong with a -2x magnifier. The other two are managed by CSOP Asset Management: the Hang Seng China Enterprises Index Daily (-2x) Inverse Product, which was restructured in July from just having a -1x multiplier, and the Hang Seng Index Daily (-2x), which was launched in May, FSA previously reported.
There are in total 24 L&I products in Hong Kong, with a total AUM of HK$7.95bn ($1.02bn), according to data from the HKEX.
Hong Kong’s ETF market has been criticised by industry participants for lacking product diversity. Hong Kong-based Premia Partners said that generally ETFs in Hong Kong are similar, often following a China index.
Moreover, Mohamed M’Rabti, Brussels-based head of ETFs at Euroclear, told FSA that assets are overly concentrated in just a few products. “Diversity is really lacking in the Hong Kong ETF space.”
However, Chu said Hong Kong’s ETF market is fairly diversified in terms of asset classes. He said that sector ETFs would be the next move, but first investors need to become more familiar with the passive products.
“From the perspective of an issuer, I definitely would want to put up a sector ETF. But the market itself is not ready to understand about investing into sector ETFs.”
Hong Kong has also seen a spate of ETF delistings, typically due to failure to gather adequate assets. The latest came last month, when CSOP AM filed to delist its China CSI 300 Smart ETF. Launched in 2015, the product’s AUM was only HK$7.3m ($932,400), according to the HKEX.
Enhanced Investment Partners, which has pulled all its ETFs from the Hong Kong market, estimated that $25m in AUM and at least $500,000 in daily turnover is necessary for an ETF to cover product costs, FSA previously reported.
Chu, however, believes delistings have less to do with a minimum AUM number and more to do with other factors.
He said if an ETF is not performing the way it is expected to, “then it’s either a problem with the index, or a problem with the management of the ETF.
“If it’s a problem of the index, for example, or a methodology that doesn’t fit the market, there is no need to keep it [listed],” he said.
He added that delistings of ETFs are normal and even though they are passive products that do not depend on a manager who is trading positions, ETFs may not meet expectations. “Delistings do not mean that the market is flawed or unhealthy. They are purely commercial decisions,” Chu said in a previous interview.


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Travel bosses have issued a dire warning to the UK Government claiming it has just 30 days to save struggling businesses.
The World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) claimed the upcoming end of the furlough scheme would put thousands of jobs at risk.
It also stressed that unless international travel opens up more widely, with simplified controls, the UK is facing a loss of £59.4 billion.
Hundreds of thousands of employees in the travel and tourism sector are still benefiting from furlough support, which is due to end on 30 September. This date coincides with the next Global Travel Taskforce review on October 1, and WTTC warns that unless travel is opened up significantly by this date, many more people working in the sector could face losing their jobs.
Based on 2019 pre-pandemic levels, WTTC estimates that £59.4billion could be lost from the UK’s economy if travel remains curtailed over the final quarter of 2021 and, furthermore, £8.9billion could be lost purely due to the lack of inbound travel spending within the UK.
It urged UK ministers to follow the United Arab Emirates, which welcomes all fully vaccinated travellers regardless of which country they come from, if they have proof of a negative test result.
The WTTC says will speed up recovery and provide a massive boost to the economy.
Julia Simpson, WTTC president and chief executive, said: “Vast economic wealth and even more jobs could be lost in 30 days’ time, if significant travel doesn’t resume by the same time the furlough scheme ends. Companies are facing a desperate future unless the government supports the sector by introducing sensible controls that build traveller confidence while keeping the UK safe.
“We should allow all fully jabbed citizens and visitors to enter the UK with a negative Covid test. There should be no need for quarantine and excessive, expensive testing requirements.
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“The next 30 days are critical to get travel back on track. That means abandoning the traffic lights system and reducing the current testing regime so that it is simpler and cheaper.”
WTTC’s annual 2021 Economic Impact Report (EIR) revealed that the dramatic collapse of the UK’s Travel & Tourism sector wiped out a staggering £148 billion from the UK economy last year.
Furthermore, in a year in which damaging travel restrictions and ineffective quarantines brought international travel to a grinding halt, a staggering 307,000 travel and tourism jobs were lost across the country.
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.


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The arrival of digital technology and the use of quartz-based timing in so-called quartz analog watches gave rise to a new breed of cheap Asian watches and to a new generation of giant Japan and Hong Kong-based industrial manufacturers.
By the end of the decade, the industry had succeeded in bringing all quartz component manufacture needs within the country's borders. In OctoberSwatch debuted its latest venture, or adventure, as some would have it: the Smart car, a project in partnership with the Daimler Benz corporation.
In addition, Swatch Group is an extraordinary machine for training young people in careers with a future, some each year.
In the s, the company would begin investigations on entering the portable telephone market--with announcements of a Swatch watch with built-in telephone. SMH also began building a new distribution channel for its expanding Swatch brand, opening the first of a proposed store chain of Swatch Megastores in New York and Geneva.
In the two companies announced the creation of the joint partnership Micro Compact Car for the production of the Smart car. The Swatch Talk was joined by two other products--the Swatch Telecom and Swatch Access--designed to launch the company into the telecommunications market at a time of the European market's deregulation.
Whether it is movements, hands, crowns, cases, screws, pallets, escapements, electronic circuits, batteries, ceramics and sapphire, to give just a few examples, there is nothing that cannot be produced in-house by our employees in our factories, our workshops, and our laboratories.