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When is Mobile Money Not a Bank? When it is M-Pesa
East Africa’s leading telecommunications company Safaricom is in trouble, with 2 major lawsuits from customers now demanding accountability. The company has in the past few months faced renewed criticism over the credibility of its mobile overdraft facility Fuliza, which runs on its mobile money service M-Pesa, and rising cases of SIM swap fraud targeting Fuliza limits. Three Kenyan M-Pesa users have filed a class-action suit against Safaricom, arguing that Kenya’s most profitable company uses its customers’ money to engage in profit-making financial lending services without consent, and without being registered as a bank. This is in contravention of section 2 (1) of the country’s Banking Act. They say that in spite of making profit through its 15-year partnership with the country’s KCB and NCBA commercial banks to offer lending services, Safaricom is yet to pay any interest to its more than 32m M-Pesa account holders, whose money “it uses to lend and earn profits.”
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With International Women’s Day (IWD) upon us, it’s a time to celebrate and recognize the social, economic, political and cultural achievements women have made. It’s also a time to advocate for further change, correct disparities and rally for women’s equality. This year’s theme is “Choose to Challenge”, which could not be more apropos. COVID-19 threatens to reverse the progress made in advancing female participation in the workforce. Women represent roughly half of Canada’s labour force. Despite this, recent studies revealed that women have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. A sizable number of women left the workforce or seriously reduced their hours to take on childcare and home-schooling responsibilities when daycares and schools were closed. Women were more likely than men to suffer job loss – depending on the industry and the type of role held. Women of colour and Indigenous women are predominantly overrepresented in lower wage service industry jobs, which were among the first jobs to be eliminated when the pandemic erupted, putting many of these women at greater financial risk.
COVID-19 also had a disproportionate impact on female entrepreneurs and female business owners. Female business owners account for approximately 15% of all Canadian small and medium businesses and female entrepreneurs make up 38% of self-employed Canadians. Many female-owned businesses are newer, smaller service-related businesses that rely on in-person interactions. Because of the COVID-19 initiated lockdowns and closures, the service industry was forcefully slammed, many business owners had to lay-off employees. Overwhelmingly stressed, concerned with cash flow and debt, many female business owners are still not fully opened, staffed or generating typical sales. Female entrepreneurs haven’t fared any better. They are more likely to self-finance and less likely to access federal wage subsidy – making it more difficult for them to recover. The difficulties faced by both female business owners and female entrepreneurs are further compounded by the fact that many of these women have assumed the added responsibilities of childcare, home schooling and other domestic burdens.
Government Funding & Grants
Canada’s female entrepreneurs and business owners are critical to the continued economic success of our country. The unique challenges faced by these businesses have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting women through this crisis with various programs and measures that are aimed at accelerating recovery. The list below, although not exhaustive, outlines available government programs:
Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) – interest-free loans for eligible businesses of up to $60,000.
Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises – up to $6.25M in new operating credit and cash flow term loans.
Co-Lending Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises – up to $12.5M for operational cash flow; commercial interest rate.
Highly-Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) Guarantee – the Business Development Bank of Canada will work with participating Canadian financial institutions to offer government guaranteed, low-interest loans.
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) – funding requests up to $60,000 for small and medium-sized enterprises that don’t qualify for CEBA.
Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) – wage subsidy maximum rate up to 75%.
Canada Recovery Benefit – for self-employed individuals.
Canada United Small Business Relief Fund – money for reopening business physically and virtually.
Work-Sharing Program – provides employment insurance to workers with reduced hours to avoid layoffs.
Other Initiatives & Support
Visa Canada recently announced the extension of its global grant program to bolster Visa’s support for small businesses in Canada. In partnership with IFundWomen, 10 women entrepreneurs in Canada will have the opportunity to apply for grants of $10,000 each and receive a one-year mentorship to support the growth and expansion of their business.
Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada) launched – Canadian Women Brand – a logo that identifies that a product or service is made (or offered) by a Canadian women-owned business.
The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub is a one-stop source of knowledge, data and best practices for women entrepreneurs.
There are other grants and loans that are potentially available to fund women-owned businesses, depending on the industry and focus. Check programs available through the provincial government the business operates in. Other examples of programs that may be available to help include The Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program, Pitch for the Purse and The Amber Grant. Business Development Canada and The Women’s Enterprise Centre also offer complimentary Business Advisory Services to assist women business owners. Vexxit is another valuable resource that offers free support services to help match female entrepreneurs and business owners with accountants, financial advisors, lawyers and business consultants who can help navigate all available options.
Despite all the advances we have made in society, the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the disproportionate burdens placed on women – the situation is compounded by existing gender inequalities. It’s hard being a female business owner any time. During a pandemic, it’s just that much harder. If nothing is done to address the impact of the pandemic on women or to confront gender inequalities, more women will leave the workforce and fewer will be inclined to start a business. Events like IWD are so important to empower and encourage women of all ages and socioeconomic status to ensure that despite the devastation caused by the pandemic, they forge ahead. The IWD theme this year asks us to “Choose to Challenge” because, in their words – a challenged world is an alert world. And from challenge comes change.

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Pharmacy deliveries will be available at 200 Costco locations in select states, which will allow customers to limit their trips from home during the pandemic.
"We know that millions of consumers are relying on Instacart in the wake of COVID-19 to get the groceries and household goods they need," Instacart said Thursday. "For many people, part of their grocery shopping experience goes beyond fresh produce, meat, seafood and pantry staples, and also includes getting much-needed medications."
Instacart provides a delivery service to drugstore chains including CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid. However, the San Francisco-based delivery app's collaboration with Costco marks its first entry into prescription drug delivery, according to Supermarket News.
The effort comes as online grocery services continue to see an onslaught of demand as millions of Americans stay home. During the week of March 2, even before some cities and states imposed "stay at home" orders, Instacart, Amazon, and Walmart grocery delivery sales all jumped by at least two-thirds from the year before, according to Earnest Research.
With Instacart's prescrip[tion delivery service, customers will receive a text message from a Costco pharmacy notifying them that their prescription is ready. The text will come with a link giving them the option to schedule their prescription for delivery. Customers will then be redirected to Costco’s site where the customer can confirm their prescription and add other items to their order such as groceries or other household items if they choose.
To limit the amount of contact between an Instacart shopper and customer, the shopper will scan a customers ID without asking for a signature.
Prescription delivery has been available in Washington state and California as part of a trial program. Delivery will be expanded to Costco pharmacies in Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Washington, D.C. However, the company plans to expand the service in the coming months to more locations.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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Google, will you guys take a day off already? The web services company has released updates to a couple of its products containing some fairly significant, potentially game-changing additions.
First up is the much-loved Chrome browser, now at version 29.
As of recently, the desktop release of the browser started sharing the same version as its “Chrome Beta” mobile counterpart found on Android.
Whilst still keeping some device-specific features, much of the underlying technology remains the same. One of the groundbreaking additions which made its way over to Android as of today – is support for WebRTC.
The direct, peer-to-peer new protocol – being pushed as part of the HTML5 standard – bypasses a central server for faster, more secure connections. This opens up a new era for applications such as in-browser video conferencing, among many others.
Another new tool to play with on the mobile front is the Web Audio API; you can demo a MIDI synthesizer demo by following the instructions here.
Desktop users haven’t been left out with a useful new addition; offering contextually relevant search results in the “Omnibox” address bar. Part of this enhancement will be to offer better suggestions based on previous sites visited.
Last – but certainly not least – we move on to the Google Maps SDK 1.4 for iOS.
Today marked the release of the new Maps for iOS (now also available on iPad) with all the fantastic new additions showed off back at Google’s I/O Developer Conference.
Whilst good news for consumers; the release of a brand-new SDK to play with is great news for developers.
So what can you now add into your applications? Street View imagery is a powerful new implementation which will surely have many innovative uses once the creative minds of the development community get their mitts on it.
How about floor plans? Check. The more natural maps interface? Check.
For the SDK announcement directly from Google, head here.
What do you think about Google’s latest updates to Chrome and the Maps SDK for iOS?


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When Under Armour signed a 10-year agreement to put its name on the Baltimore Ravens’ practice facility in 2012, the company and the team envisioned a link between two hip brands.
Steve Bisciotti, the Ravens’ owner, spoke that day about how he and Kevin Plank, Under Armour’s chief executive, were “two young guys fighting some very established competitors.”
On Monday, Bisciotti sat in the auditorium of the Under Armour Performance Center in Owings Mills, Md., in front of a backdrop emblazoned with the logos of the company and the team, standard stage management in sports when coaches, players and team officials speak to the news media.
But this was not the sort of event that a sponsor cherishes. Bisciotti was holding a news conference to rebut a report by ESPN that the Ravens had lobbied the N.F.L. for lenience in punishing running back Ray Rice after he was arrested and charged with assaulting Janay Palmer, then his fiancée, in February.
This month, after a video showed Rice punching Palmer, who married him a day after the indictment was issued, he was cut by the Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the league.
On Tuesday, Under Armour issued a statement saying that the Ravens had “made a mistake” in how they dealt with Rice after the initial accusation and that “they have learned hard lessons and vowed to implement a policy to ensure it doesn’t happen again.” The company’s statement added: “We believe they will work through this and find ways to have a positive societal impact in efforts to stem domestic violence.”
It was the latest illustration of the difficulties faced by sponsors as the N.F.L. struggles to deal with its mishandling of several recent cases of domestic violence involving players. Some sponsors have issued statements, a few tougher than others, but their top executives have been loath to speak publicly, either to chastise or to support the league.
Lowell McAdam, the chairman of Verizon Communications, wrote on his LinkedIn page that because of the company’s deep involvement in programs to prevent domestic violence, “we can be far more effective in preventing domestic violence in the arena with our partners at the N.F.L., rather than backing away from the controversy.”
So far, no sponsor has pulled out of its deal, although Radisson Hotels suspended its sponsorship with the Minnesota Vikings after running back Adrian Peterson was accused of child abuse, and Crest, a Procter & Gamble brand, dropped its sponsorship from the league’s breast cancer awareness program.
While distancing themselves from the domestic violence cases, sponsors do not want to dissociate themselves from the N.F.L., a singularly powerful marketing outlet. If they speak out too forcefully against the league, sponsors could hurt the league when it is down. They could also hurt themselves because of an association they have built over time. The only way that sponsors will change their approach to the crisis, marketing executives said, is if they see a drastic drop-off in their sales or the value of the league’s brand.
“Either way, it is all about protecting your business,” said Tony Ponturo, a former vice president for global media at Anheuser-Busch, one of the league’s biggest sponsors. (Anheuser-Busch released a statement last week that said it was “disappointed and increasingly concerned by the recent incidents that have overshadowed this N.F.L. season.”)
Consumer perception of the N.F.L. has, at least for now, plunged to its lowest level in more than two years, according to YouGov BrandIndex, a research service. A score of -100 to 100 was calculated based on interviews with 10,000 people who were asked, “If you’ve heard anything about the brand in the last two weeks, through advertising, news or word of mouth, was it positive or negative?”
After peaking this year on Sept. 8 with a 36, the N.F.L.’s score on Sept. 22 had plunged to a -42, with men giving the league a -46 and women a -38.
The last time the league endured such a drastic dip in perception, according to YouGov, was in June 2012, when the score dipped to a -26 in the midst of the New Orleans Saints bounty scandal and the filing of a consolidated complaint by former players accusing the N.F.L. of hiding information linked to football-related head trauma.
Sponsors stick with the N.F.L. for years, not weeks, because its game broadcasts attract mass audiences that cross the boundaries of age, race and gender. They sign multiyear deals that often form the foundation of lengthy consumer marketing campaigns, while also agreeing to spend money on televised advertising during games. Allen Adamson, chairman of the North American region of Landor Associates, a branding consulting firm, said: “The N.F.L. is the only game in town. It is not like they can take their sponsorship and marketing dollars to baseball or Ping-Pong.”
Sponsorships for the league and teams were valued by IEG, a sponsorship research and consulting company, at $1.07 billion in 2013. Total advertising spending on N.F.L. broadcasts reached $4 billion in 2013, up 10 percent over the previous year, according to WPP’s Kantar Media, an ad tracking firm. The top advertiser in 2013 was Anheuser-Busch, with spending of $185.3 million.
Cutting their ties to the N.F.L. — or even temporarily pulling ads or distancing a brand from the league — is not likely to happen since it can have ramifications for a company’s broader strategy.
Michael Lynch, a former head of global sponsorship marketing at Visa USA who now runs the United States consulting practice at Repucom, a sports marketing research firm, said, “If a sponsor pulls out, they may be hard-pressed to get back in when the issue has been resolved to their satisfaction.”
“At this point, a lot already has gone out the door,” Ponturo said, noting that about half of the sponsorship money already has been spent on laying the infrastructure of the sponsorship.
Marketing executives said that they typically were put on alert as soon as news about a controversy breaks and monitor how the partner handles the scandal. They are forced to respond when the issue continues to build and they face pressure from consumers, stockholders and employees. In the current N.F.L. crisis, brands are particularly sensitive to how the issue is playing out among women.
“You start getting dragged into the conversation even if you did nothing wrong,” Ponturo said. “You could be threatened with boycotts now of one of your products.”
In these situations, sponsors typically call one another to make sure that their statements are similar and also run the statement by the leagues or teams, the executives said.
“Sponsors are expecting their partners to do the right thing,” Lynch said. “And if they don’t, then morals clauses kick in and they have to consider the alternatives.”


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On February 17, Russian President Vladimir Putin had a phone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida about Russia’s security guarantees, the situation around Ukraine and bilateral relations. Photo: Kyodo
Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio stressed that Japan will work with the G7 to prevent Russia from exploiting loans from the International Monetary Fund and other global lending institutions.
Tokyo will also strengthen sanctions by expanding the scope of asset freezes for Russian elites and banning the import of certain products from the country. Previously, Japan had imposed sanctions on Russia over electronic chips and high-tech equipment.
On March 15, the European Union announced that it would abolish Russia’s most-favored nation status under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.
This measure does not require any WTO proceedings as it is a unilateral decision. The withdrawal of this status allows the EU to impose additional trade sanctions such as increased tariffs or other types of trade restrictions. Each WTO member that has chosen to withdraw Russia’s most favored nation status is free to impose any trade sanctions it wants.
The EU has also just imposed an import ban on Russian finished steel as well as an export ban on some luxury goods such as alcohol, cars, and electronics to Russia.
at Blogtuan.info – Source: vtv.vn – Read the original article here


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Gamers found themselves without the Playstation Network on Christmas Day due to a denial-of-service attack that knocked out the PSN for PS4, PS3 and PS Vita.
Now in response, Sony has announced they are offering a PSN discount and extension for users.
Sony posted on their blog that as a "Holiday Thank You," they want to show their appreciation for everyone's patience by offering all Playstation Plus members that were affected on December 25th a membership extension of five days, which will automatically be applied.
In addition, Sony has announced that sometime this month for a limited time, they will be offering a 10 percent discount code good for a one-time discount off the total cart purchase in the PS Store, which will be available for all PSN members.
Back in 2011, Sony also offered free games and discounts following a similar attack as well as settling class-action lawsuits.
Regarding XBox Live, which also went down this Holiday season due to the same cyber attacks, but recovered quicker than Sony, it's unknown if Microsoft will follow Sony's lead.


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The oceans receive about 8 million tons of rubbish every year. At the same time, knowledge on climate change and the impact that we generate on the environment has caused worry for both companies and individuals, who occupy themselves with how to reduce the damage being caused to our planet.
Sustainability and organic foods are a trend in the petfood industry, among others.
Is it possible to make a 100 percent biodegradable wrap/package? Is it economically affordable? What obstacles exist today in order to achieve it? Will the demand for my products increase? Is it worth it?
All of those who are participants in this industry have a role and a responsibility to implement actions to reduce waste, reuse and recycle materials and products, to the extent that businesses allow it, to create a more sustainable chain.
The increased awareness and involvement of pet owners regarding sustainability and caring for the environment forces the petfood packaging industry to look for more ecological alternatives.
Latricia Fry, from Constantia Flexibles, one of the most important flexible packaging companies, affirms that in North America there are already companies promising to be 100 percent recyclable or sustainable by 2022 or 2025, and that, consequently, the company she represents has noticed an exponential increase in the order for more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging.
Sean Riley, from the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI), says that pressure and the social demand for more sustainable petfood have led packaging manufacturers to seek options to reduce waste from their production chain and packages. Similarly, it ensures that consumption is leaning towards companies that use good production practices for the environment.
Likewise, the research firm Mintel underlines the importance of packaging in the sustainable life cycle of a product, which is why, like food, they should incorporate bio-based materials and increase the incentive to recycle said packaging.
Managing sustainability in this sector
The global reality is that sustainability involves costly and highly innovative processes, and even so, if implemented, there would continue to be downsides in terms of the environmental footprint.
In addition, companies participating in the petfood production chain have to analyse the impact from several angles. Regarding packaging, they would also have to improve the packages used in the logistics of shipping and distribution of products, trying to choose cardboard boxes and avoid plastic or plastic wrap or covers.
One of the main obstacles in the implementation of more sustainable materials and chains is the cost involved in implementing new processes that adapt to the standards of caring for the environment. The second main obstacle for producers and manufacturers is the need to find packaging that is safe to maintain the quality and condition of different types of food and candy, and that is more sustainable.
Solutions being considered
The pioneering companies in implementing more sustainable systems and materials (primarily located in the United States) have begun to develop and implement several alternatives:
- Some choose to replace polyethylene plastic (made from fossil fuels like oil or natural gas) with green polyethylene – a bio-based plastic made from Brazilian sugar cane. The use of this polyethylene has an extra advantage: the cultivation of this sugar cane uses carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing its carbon footprint
- Another alternative towards sustainability is the generation of flexible packaging that is 100 percent recyclable in pinch, folding and flat bottom formats
- The Constantia Flexibles company has developed an aluminium packaging system with a water-based coating that eliminates the emission of volatile organic compounds. In this way, they would be recyclable in the aluminium recycling chain
While it is true that each sector and industry must rethink itself in terms of the footprint and negative impact it generates on the environment, it is also important to affirm that any change and transformation that is implemented impacts on other sectors and/or related industries.
With regards to recycling, the key, beyond petfood packaging manufacturers’ improvement intentions, is how local municipalities manage and report on their own recycling chain. Another challenge to create a sustainable system within which packaging can be recycled to, is there must be someone willing to buy the material to use it to create new products.
Currently, in Latin America, only 14 percent of the population has recycling habits. Within the formal and corporate sector, only 2.2 percent of companies recycle products and materials. Also, most of the few people who recycle say they do not have recycling points or containers for recyclables near their home.
These numbers, unfortunately, only discourage and dismiss the idea of investing in research and machinery to develop more sustainable packaging. The most effective solution for the current situation in Latin America is to educate and inform.
Currently, there are two solutions that are positioned as preferrable among producers, even if they are still far from perfect.
One option is to develop a reusable and refillable container or container. It would be truly sustainable in a circular recycling economy, as recycled items would be reused and recycled over and over again. Its main disadvantage is that, in the short term, it is a rather expensive implementation and the infrastructure and machinery that is used mostly today is not capable of doing this.
The second option is to design post-consumer polyethylene recycling programs. However, there are challenges of a newly adapted packaging design and the fact that it perpetuates the use of plastics demotivate companies.
But not everything is a downside. There are some actions that can be implemented now, to lead the way to a more sustainable industry and packaging.
Achieving more sustainable packaging
There are some good practices that can be implemented in our current situation and context to the production chain of packaging for petfood, among them:
- Increase the recycled content used in the production of packaging and packaging
- Use larger containers and boost bulk purchasing to reduce waste
- Prioritise packaging made, to a greater extent, of cardboard, and secondly, of aluminium
- Carry out communication and awareness campaigns about the importance of recycling and how it should be done
This final point is essential: when it comes to recyclable packaging, education is key. People need information and resources on how to recycle and why it is so important to do so, as well as everything that goes into achieving more sustainable packaging.
Manufacturers of packaging for petfood that seek to achieve greater sustainability should focus on communicating it through the labels of their products, as well as through their various social networks and web pages.
Recyclable packaging appears as a great solution to reduce the negative impact of the petfood industry, but it requires a joint effort by the sector and the corresponding municipalities. Starting a strategic communication and dissemination plan is definitely a good alternative for all companies in the industry that want to begin this transformation but do not yet have the necessary infrastructure or investment to materialise it in all their products.


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Over the years, coffee has earned a bad reputation, often being maligned and associated with health problems. According to Harvard’s School of Public Health, early studies linked coffee consumption to serious conditions ranging from asthma to heart disease. As it turns out, many participants in these studies also smoked cigarettes, so an unfair connection between coffee and health was concluded.
More recent research is showing strong evidence between drinking coffee and overall improved health. We’ve already covered its potential to help reduce the risk of dementia and stroke. Now we’re taking a look at another study that suggests coffee’s positive impact on heart health and life longevity.
A study published on September 27, 2022 in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology looked at habitual coffee consumption and its impact on incidents of arrhythmia, cardiovascular disease, and mortality.
The researchers tracked 449,563 participants aged 40 to 69 (median 58 years, 55.3% females) for over 10 years. The BMI, smoking and alcohol habits, and health history of participants were all taken into account to rule out potential false correlations as seen in previous studies.
Those in the study then answered a questionnaire detailing how much coffee they drank each day and whether it was instant, ground, or decaffeinated. After that, the participants were categorized into six daily intake categories: none, less than one, one, two to three, four to five, and more than five cups.
What researchers found appears to be great news for coffee lovers. Here’s the basic breakdown:
- A significant reduction in arrhythmia was found for those who drank one to five cups of either ground or instant coffee, with the lowest risks being for those who drank four to five cups of ground coffee or two to three cups of instant coffee a day. Those who drank decaffeinated coffee did not see a reduced risk of arrhythmia.
- Drinking two to three cups of ground, instant, or decaffeinated coffee were all associated with decreased risks of cardiovascular disease compared to non-drinkers.
- All causes of death were significantly reduced when consuming two to three cups of either ground, instant, or decaffeinated coffee.
Overall, all coffee-type consumption was associated with improved health (with the exception of decaf coffee and arrhythmia). Still, for those with caffeine sensitivity, this is promising news. And for most correlations, drinking two to three cups a day proved the most beneficial.
The study authors do note a few limitations to the research, including that coffee consumption was self-reported and relied on the presumption that coffee intake would remain consistent. They also noted the possibility that participants consumed more than one type of coffee over the course of the study. Additionally, the population was mainly white, so the findings may not be fully applicable to other ethnicities.
While more research would need to be done to address these limitations, the initial findings are promising for coffee loves of all types.


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The parent of cigarette makers Liggett Group and Vector Tobacco reported a fourth-quarter net loss of $1.1 million, a loss of 3 cents per share, compared with net income of $13.7 million, or 47 cents per share, in the year-earlier period. Full-year net income decreased 88% to $20.7 million, or 58 cents per share, from $174.2 million, or $5.99 per share in 2000.
Fourth-quarter revenue increased to $225.1 million from $145.2 million in same quarter in 2000. Full-year revenue increased to $744.2 million from $649.5 million the previous year.
Vector also announced the completion of its acquisition of discount-cigarette maker Medallion for $110 million.
Vector said it expects
"Launching two new types of cigarettes is a challenging task," Vector Group Chairman-CEO Bennett LeBow said. "While we're pleased with much of the progress we've made with Omni, sales have been slower than we expected. Undoubtedly the concept of a new category of cigarettes is an idea which will take time to explain and convey to consumers."
Vector is currently running ads for Omni through Trone Advertising, High Point, N.C., which will also handle Quest.
The company will spend $40 million to launch Quest later this year, Mr. LeBow said, in support of Vector's strategy to focus on premium products.
"Quest will be positioned, advertised and priced as a premium cigarette, and provide smokers with a new choice," he said.
Liggett, whose discount brand Liggett Select drove the company's increased sales volume last year, also took steps to expand its premium portfolio with the launch of Jade, a menthol cigarette, in September.
Vector, which last month announced it would combine the sales and marketing operations of its two subsidiaries to form Liggett Vector Brands, hopes the new unit will enhance the distribution and in-store support for all Vector brands. The new entity, effective this month, has 350 staffers. Vector hopes to expand the group to 500 by year-end.


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2017 – THE YEAR OF HEALTHCARE VIDEO
Oct 09, 2018 08:50AM
● By MED Magazine
In her Internet Trends Report 2016 address, Mary Meeker KCPB, predicted that by 2017, 74% of all internet traffic will be video. The best videos will be stories that are authentic, entertaining, in-context, and brief. This means that video marketing is absolutely necessary to attract, and more importantly, engage your audience.
With video quickly becoming one of the most effective types of content, video creation is now a crucial skill in the marketing world. According to Digital Sherpa, only 20% of online readers finish reading a written article. But the good news is that the remaining 80% will watch a video to completion, and be able to recall that information better. In even better news, of that 80%, studies show that 46% took some action after viewing the video. That action was most often based on learning more about the related topic.
An effective video marketing campaign will engage your audience and inspire a significant percentage of them (at least 64%) to take an action, or want to learn more. This means a greater percentage of those web visitors will become loyal clients.


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Families have praised Center Parcs for their decision to close all its UK holiday villages following the latest government announcement.
The holiday group, which has five locations across the UK including one closest to Liverpool at Whinfell Forest in Cumbria, will close all of them from today (Monday, December 21).
The company said in an announcement on its Facebook page : "Following the update from the Prime Minister (December 19) it is clear that the threat of the virus with the new variant is now at an extremely delicate stage. It is therefore with a heavy heart that we have made the decision to close all our UK villages from Monday, December 21 until at least January 7, 2021.
"Our decisions throughout the pandemic have been with the priority of keeping our guests and staff as safe as possible. Latest Government advice in all tiers is to avoid non-essential travel outside of local areas and we certainly do not wish to encourage this.
"We know how disappointing this news will be for our guests, especially during this time of year. We have not made this decision lightly, but there is clearly concern around the new variant being moved around the country."
The news has left many families disappointed but understanding over the announcement, with many praising Center Parcs for taking the safety of their employees and guests seriously.
One Facebook user commented: "Good call Center Parcs, nice to see a company making a sensible decision to protect guests AND staff."
Another wrote: "Feeling sorry for myself right now but can't praise CP enough. Not an easy decision to make at all. I have already had my email, followed the instructions and applied to re-book. Very easy. Stay safe everyone."
One said: "So sorry you've had to make this decision but well done for acting so responsibly. I've had a break cancelled twice with you this year and you've made everything so easy to reorganise. Look forward to our visit next year."
And another person commented: "I am gutted we can't attend as we were due to arrive tomorrow but also think this is a very sensible and responsible decision for the greater good. Must have been a very hard one to make."
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Finally one added: "As disappointing as it is, it is the right decision in the current circumstances. We are absolutely gutted not to be arriving for Christmas again on Wednesday but we appreciate that you make cancellation so easy and straightforward, second time we've had to cancel this year so we know the process well! We feel so lucky that we managed to get to Whinfell for a last-minute weekend in September and looking forward to hopefully arriving in February."
Center Parcs said that all guests impacted by the closure period will receive an email with instructions on how to cancel activities and restaurant reservations and how to reschedule with a discount to the value of £100 or cancel with a full refund.


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International franchise news
International franchise news
Iconic British brand, Harry Ramsden’s, has opened its first overseas outlet in over a decade.
In their most recent publication, renowned culinary franchise magazine Food Franchise has ranked Chopstix Noodle Bar 25th out of the 50 best and most profitable franchise opportunities in the UK.
The Franchise Magazine spoke with Regis UK’s Managing Director Jackie Lang, and Marketing Manager, Jenny Smith, about the Supercuts brand bringing their successful franchise model into the UK market.
Morelli’s Gelato is delighted to announce that Marka PJSC acquired the Middle East franchise operations of Morelli’s Gelato, in a deal worth AED 31 million
FLAsia’s International Conference & Workshop, designed specifically for budding franchisors and aspiring franchisees, will take place from 30 – 31 October at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
More than 400 leading franchise brands on hand to meet potential business owners at International Franchise Expo
National home care provider, Caremark is set to launch a new office in Kerala, Southern India on May 23, 2015.
Entrepreneurs and prospective franchisees met face-to-face with representatives of international brand concepts for three days during the 9th annual Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia).
International franchiser German Doner Kebab has won at the 2014 MENAFA Excellence Award with Best UAE Franchise Brand, at a ceremony organised by MENAFA.
Pizza Hut has announced the opening of its first restaurant in Africa. The arrival of Pizza Hut on the continent reflects the expansion plans of the company to emerging markets.
Century 21, the world’s largest residential real estate sales organisation, has announced its expansion into India
As the Brazilian FIFA World Cup looms closer, the SUBWAY brand announces that Daniel Sturridge, England and Liverpool FC footballer as the latest SUBWAY Famous Fan.
Canadian fast food chain Pita Pit is to open its second outlet in the Leeds next month, creating 10 new jobs.
French kitchen manufacturer Mobalpa has reported a positive first year of trading for its pilot franchise showroom in the UK.
French kitchen manufacturer Mobalpa has appointed an external PR team to help drive awareness of its kitchen ranges and franchise concept in the UK.
As part of their worldwide master-franchising programme of growth, Zine has secured their first international contract, with a Master Franchise joining Zine from Dubai to cover all work in the United Arab Emirates.
Franchise Development Services (FDS) has announced Lebanon is braced for a franchise revolution. This news comes as Managing Director, Roy Seaman, delivered a franchise seminar in Beirut to a large audience, which included the Lebanese Minister for Industry and an impressive contingent of national Lebanese media.


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PMC-Sierra, a semiconductor and software solutions provider for networks that connect, store and move digital content, has signed on PB Technologies to expand its market penetration and reach new channel partners in New Zealand.
This partnership is particularly aimed at solidifying Adaptec by PMC’s presence in the country.
“We are excited to partner with PB Technologies to distribute Adaptec by PMC’s RAID and HBA adapters as we continue to expand our business in New Zealand,” said Demetri Christodoulou, regional sales manager for PMC, Asia Pacific region.
“The synergy between PB’s strong distribution presence and Adaptec by PMC’s industry leading storage product portfolio will help us reach new customers and markets in NZ.”
“Winning the distributorship for Adaptec by PMC storage solutions strengthens our existing product lines,” said Pat Huo, managing director of PB Technologies. “PB’s strong sales and distribution channel will ensure a comprehensive market coverage that takes Adaptec by PMC to new heights in the storage industry in NZ.”


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By : Sutapa Banerjee
1514 | December 2 2017
CCTV camera dealers in trichy in the beginning implemented in development of rockets, over the last six decades, it has turn out to be an progressively more important factor in security and protection for governments, law enforcement, schools, businesses, and even for homes. Let’s acquire a more rapidly look at the numerous ways about CCTV camera dealers in trichy which is used in everyday life.
We thank thanks to CCTV camera dealers in trichy to control traffic monitoring systems. But at the same time as we all hear about the increasing number that pop up at full of activity and unsafe intersections, video observation isn’t just for issuing traffic tickets.
With growing traffic volumes in metro areas, interstates and local roads encompass develop into far more crowded and irresponsible driving and accidents take place more regularly than forever. Numerous cities now build up surveillance cameras over busy roadways to monitor traffic flow, observe for forceful or thoughtless driving, and examine the information of crashes and vehicle wrecks. CCTV camera dealers in trichy that is set up in the home is the nanny-cam, a small CCTV that is frequently hidden to look like an ordinary household object, and located in an area of the home where nannies, babysitters, and other household staff/employees are possible to expend time. These secretly cctv carry peace of mind to parents and homeowner who desire to be at ease that their children and things are safe and individual treated properly.


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Nisa’s charity, Making a Difference Locally (MADL), has got into the Christmas spirit this week with the launch of its final initiative of the year – the 12 Days of Christmas.
All the good causes operate within local communities served by Nisa’s independent retailers and have been selected by MADL Ambassadors – a group of Nisa colleagues who help to promote MADL and the funding initiatives to retailers and encourage their involvement.
The countdown is now underway, with the first door of the special advent calendar opening on 13 December to reveal a £1,000 award to North Dorset Beekeepers Association.
This week has also seen £1,000 funding go to the Arts at the Mill CIC in Wigan (14 December), Bearded Fishermen in North Lincolnshire (15 December), and Children & Families in Grief (16 December).
A further eight good causes will be revealed up to and including Christmas Eve, concluding the £12,000 charity giveaway.
Marketing manager at MADL Helen Walker said: “We know that there are so many incredible causes across the UK that our independent retailers are keen to support, and we wanted to give something a little extra this Christmas when so many communities are struggling.
“Tying the initiative in with the 12 Days of Christmas helped to give it a festive feel as well as add in some suspense as we reveal one winner at a time during the countdown to Christmas Day.”Published Date: December 16, 2022


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November 29, 2012 Never give a box full of dog — that's our advice. Well, that and a few more things that aren't consistent with how they give gifts on TV.
November 29, 2012 In 1951, Leslie Caron arrived in California a malnourished and anemic ballerina. After spending the war in occupied Paris, Tinseltown was a revelation, and she soon took it by storm, appearing with the likes of Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly in more than 40 films.
November 28, 2012 It's time for the press screenings of Les Miserables. They're embargoed after they happen, but we can share what we won't be doing.
November 28, 2012 You might envision Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Sandman and the Tooth Fairy as cute and cuddly. But they're tough characters united to fight the boogeyman in Rise of the Guardians. NPR's Michel Martin talks with director Peter Ramsey about the movie — and becoming the first African-American director of a big-budget CG-animation film.
November 28, 2012 Think outside the bag of white flour that's ubiquitous in the kitchen this time of year. These delights are naturally flour-free yet still utterly delicious.
November 27, 2012 In fiction, Paula McLain explores Hemingway's first marriage, while Anita Desai re-examines modern India. In nonfiction, Joseph Epstein defends gossip, Rosamond Bernier remembers midcentury Paris, and Stuart Isacoff lauds the piano.
November 27, 2012 Priska Neely peeks inside the fully stocked minibar of Denzel Washington's Flight to find out how all those brand-name bottles get on screen — and what happens when nobody gets permission.
November 27, 2012 In his new book, journalist Gregory Johnsen charts the rise of Yemen as a haven for al-Qaida and explores the recent history of radical Islam in the Arabian Peninsula. The death of Osama bin Laden, he says, had more of an effect on the U.S. psyche than it did on people in Yemen.
November 26, 2012 Jon Meacham's Thomas Jefferson paints a rich portrait of the third president. It debuts at No. 1.
November 26, 2012 Independent bookstores have weathered competition from big chains, Amazon and now e-books. But NPR's Lynn Neary reports that this year's holiday shopping season looks like an improvement on past years, as booksellers offer quality hardcovers and their own take on e-readers.
November 26, 2012 For this week's Sandwich Monday, we make our own version of a special from Asia's Freshness Burger chain: The Butter And Sugar Burger. Spoiler alert: It has two ingredients, and they are butter and sugar. And it's on a bun.


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Samsung is one of the largest manufactures of consumer electronics in the world. They have manufactured some pretty amazing phones in the past. However, as time goes by these devices become outdated. People will buy new ones and the old phones loose value. In Order to promote reuse, Samsung has started an ‘UpCycling’ Program. UpCycling is the process of transforming by-products, waste materials, useless, or unwanted products into new materials or products of better quality or for better environmental value. Samsung has created a BitCoin Mining rig out of these old Galaxy S5’s.
Bitcoin is a well known cryptocurrency and digital payment system. It is a decentralised digital currency, this means that this system works without a central repository. Bitcoin mining is the process by which transactions are verified and added to the public ledger, known as the blockchain. In this way new bitcoins are released. Anyone with access to the internet and suitable hardware can participate in mining.
The mining process involves compiling recent transactions into blocks and trying to solve a computationally difficult puzzle. The participant who first solves the puzzle gets to place the next block on the block chain and claim the rewards.
Samsung’s upcycling initiative has built a bitcoin mining rig which was unveiled during their annual Developer Conference held in San Francisco. This rig has around 40 Galaxy S5’s plugged into a specialized chassis. This is the product of Samsung’s Creative Child. The entire rig runs on a proprietary software specially made for these Galaxy S5s. Even though people may not have a bunch of Galaxy S5’s lying around to build this system that can run this software, It shows that Samsung is trying to use these outdated devices.
Samsung has taken up this upcycling initiative quite seriously. Apart from this Bitcoin mining rig, Samsung’s UpCycling Program has converted an old Galaxy Tablet into a ‘laptop’ with the ability to run Ubuntu. It has also repurposed the older Galaxy S3 to monitor a fishtank. They also modified an old camera phone to support facial recognition software, thus forming the bases of a Home Security System.
The company has promised to release these showcased projects online for free. Samsung’s spokesperson, Mr. Robin Schultz, has said that the heart of this “innovative platform provides an environmentally responsible way for old Galaxy mobile devices to breathe new life, providing new possibilities and potential extended value for devices that might otherwise be forgotten in desk drawers or discarded.”
CEO of iFixit, Mr. Kyle Wiens has praised this UpCycling Project from Samsung. He says that most of these old phones run older software, that is insecure and most of these phone can not run newer apps. This project provides a perfect way to put these old hardware into good use. He also says that the software Samsung is running on these phone involves complete removal of Android OS. This project has the potential to add secondary market value to these old outdated Samsung Phones.
Samsung has now opened up a GitHub page for the UpCycling Project. This webpage is said to help build a decentralized community for the project, that will help to find out innovative ways to repurpose of outdated technology.


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At SAS Institute's Analytics 2011 Conference Series in Orlando late last month, the "big data" conversation was unavoidable. Sessions focused on making better use of data stores by analyzing at a granular level and adding more data, such as social media information, onto the analytics plate.
"We're going all in," said Radhika Kulkarni, vice president of advanced analytics research and development at SAS. By doing so, the software company will join the ranks of Oracle, SAP and Microsoft, vendors that have released products with a big-data tagline in the last six months.
Collecting reams of data is the easy part. Turning the data into actionable insight is what's causing the headaches. By 2018, the U.S. could face a talent deficit of 140,000 to 190,000 people with deep analytical skills, according to a frequently referenced May 2011 report by McKinsey & Co.
An emerging title and job category -- frowned upon by some but embraced by others -- may just provide the employees who will fill the gap. The "data scientist" is gaining popularity at companies such as Google, Groupon, LinkedIn and Facebook. Those organizations, which actively advertise their data scientist openings, are seeking out highly skilled employees to dive into data and find patterns that will have a positive business impact.
Where are you with big data? Are you facing it head-on or still scratching your head at where to begin? Let me know your thoughts and your comments may appear in an upcoming SearchBusinessAnalytics.com news article.
Each month, SearchBusinessAnalytics.com editors choose recent articles and other content to highlight here for our readers. We welcome your feedback on these items and our site in general -- you can contact us directly or at email@example.com.


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Motorola is gearing up for the launch of its latest smartphone, the Moto G24 Power, in India on January 30, 2024. This new addition to Motorola’s smartphone lineup boasts several impressive features that are poised to make it a strong contender in the competitive Indian market.
- 6.56-inch 90Hz HD+ display
- MediaTek Helio G85 processor
- Up to 8GB RAM and 256GB expandable storage
- Dual rear camera setup: 50MP main and 2MP macro
- 16MP front camera
- 6000mAh battery with 33W fast charging
- Android 14 OS with My UX
- IP52 water-repellent design
- Available in Ink Blue and Glacier Blue
Specifications and Features
The Moto G24 Power sports a 6.56-inch IPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and HD+ resolution, promising a smooth and vibrant visual experience. Under the hood, it is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 chipset, accompanied by options of 4GB or 8GB RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB. This configuration suggests a device that can handle multitasking and storage-intensive applications with ease.
In terms of optics, the device features a dual rear camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP macro lens, along with a 16MP front camera for selfies and video calls. The smartphone runs on Android 14 with My UX and is assured to receive one major Android OS update and three years of security patches.
Design and Durability
The Moto G24 Power boasts an IP52-rated water-repellent chassis, ensuring durability against everyday spills and splashes. Its design includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for enhanced security, along with a dual speaker system supporting Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience.
Battery and Connectivity
One of the most notable features of the Moto G24 Power is its large 6000mAh battery, supported by 33W fast charging. This massive battery capacity is likely to offer extended usage times, making it ideal for users who are frequently on the move. For connectivity, the device includes dual-SIM support, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
Availability and Pricing
Motorola has announced that the Moto G24 Power will be available in two color variants, Ink Blue and Glacier Blue, and it can be purchased from Motorola’s official website, Flipkart, and various retail stores in India. While the official pricing will be confirmed on the launch date, it is expected to be around Rs 10,000, making it a compelling option in the budget smartphone segment.
The Moto G24 Power is set to make its mark in the Indian smartphone market with its combination of performance, durability, and affordability. With its large display, powerful battery, and the latest Android OS, it caters to the needs of a wide range of users, from casual to power users. The official launch on January 30 will unveil the final piece of the puzzle – its pricing, which could be a key factor in its success in the competitive Indian smartphone market. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting launch.


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Mauricio Alvarez is a small business owner himself and knows the importance of investing in local businesses, which was one of the reasons he wandered into The Potting Shed By Carlisle in Orange on a Friday.
“I believe that giving back to your community helps to sustain the small business owners that are basically what all of us are made of,” Alvarez said. “If I’m going to put my money somewhere else, what better place to put it than in the pockets of the business owner and their family this holiday.”
The day after Thanksgiving has been focused on getting great Black Friday deals at major retailers. But the Saturday after Thanksgiving is, today, increasingly marketed as Small Business Saturday, meant to remind people to shop at local mom-and-pop stores during the holiday, like The Potting Shed. , which has been open in Old Town Orange for nearly a decade. ,
Store owner Jack Carlisle said many of the items stocked at The Potting Shed are from local, Orange County artisans. Helping to support many local creatives, the store is constantly filled with artisanal gifts such as reclaimed wall art, plants, jams, herbs, puzzles, cards, candles, ceramic bowls, and other craft utensils.
“We’re a one-stop-shop,” Carlisle said. “And by supporting us, you are truly supporting the local creators whose products we sell.”
Denise Jochek got off a plane from France just two nights ago with a suitcase full of merchandise for her Summerhill Ltd. Antiques & Design in Orange, just in time for Small Business Saturday.
“Most of what we have here is French, because they get things done better,” Jochek said. “Most of our customers are excited because they have been able to find gifts that are very unusual, unique and thoughtful.
“Many of the items in our store, if they were purchased in L.A. or elsewhere,” she said, “they would be very expensive, but our pieces are tailored to our customers to ensure that people can afford the luxury they desire.” able to do.”
Like large retailers, Vicki McMurchy, executive director of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, said many local stores are having sales customers can take advantage of and many are helping with rising costs, such as offering patrons free gift wrapping. are offering.
“Employment continues to be a challenge for most of our businesses,” McMurchy said. “For job seekers, we encourage them to seek opportunities within their local communities. We encourage everyone to keep local small business in mind throughout the holiday season. Support and actively seek opportunities to try new shops and restaurants.


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According to financial data posted to the Registrar of Companies (RoC) and accessed by business intelligence platform Tofler, Lenovo India revenue in FY20 jumped by 27% at Rs 9,108.93 crore.
The company’s net profit, however, took a beating at Rs 68.5 crore which is a decrease of 62% from Rs 178.69 crore in FY19. The company’s total expenses for the fiscal were reported at Rs 8,996 crore.
In the director’s report, Lenovo said the company directors have made all efforts to enhance the business performance during the current financial year.
Incidentally, Lenovo India had touched peak sales of Rs 12,004 crore in 2016-17 but it had almost halved in the following financial year after it exited the mobile phone business and transferred it to a group company in India.
In fact, the demand for computers grew significantly this year due to the pandemic. As per market researcher IDC India, the July-September quarter saw shipment of some 3.4 million units of desktops, notebooks, and workstations making it the biggest quarter in the last seven years in India.
Total shipments grew by 9.2% year-over-year during the quarter as the demand for e-learning and remote working remained strong. In fact, the consumer segment recorded its biggest quarter ever with two million unit shipments growing by 41.7% year-on-year.
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InsWeb (Nasdaq: INSW) gained 5/16 to 2 5/8 Tuesday after the Redwood City, California-based online insurance marketplace said Prudential Insurance Company of America, one of the largest insurance companies in the United States, is now a participating member.
“Prudential’s exemplary reputation and wide selection of products are an outstanding addition to our marketplace,” said James Corroon, vice chairman of InsWeb.
“InsWeb is an important part of our overall electronic commerce strategy, which is designed to reach the growing number of our customers and new consumers who are seeking online solutions,” said Robert L. Conover, vice president of Prudential’s individual financial services division. “Supported by its vast network of online partners, InsWeb is helping to significantly broaden our reach across the Internet.”
InsWeb provides consumers with free quotes on auto, term life, health, homeowners, renters, motorcycle and pet insurance from more than 40 insurance companies. Its services are available over several Web sites, including Yahoo!, MSN, Snap.com and E*Trade.


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In February, we launched April 12 as National Pumpkin Sowing Day and now that day is upon us! We hope that you’ve got your seeds at the ready – if you haven’t, there’s still time to get some – so you can get them planted and on their way.
As sponsors of the UK’s giant pumpkin growing competition each autumn at the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth’s annual event in Southampton, we decided to designate a specific National Pumpkin Sowing Day in response to the many queries that we receive around the time of the giant pumpkin weigh-in. We thought it would be a great incentive for people wanting to try their hand at growing a record-breaker or for those simply wanting to grow a modest pumpkin for carving at Halloween.
Our commercial director, Paul Hansord, who himself sows a couple of pumpkins each year, said: “We decided to set April 12th as National Pumpkin Sowing Day 2017 and encourage people to get their seeds ready to sow on this date. We’ll show them how to sow and grow their pumpkin with useful tips and informative videos and hope someone out there might grow a pumpkin to rival last year’s winner”.
The heaviest pumpkin at last year’s giant pumpkin event weighed in at 2,252.3lb and was grown by Ian and Stuart Paton who have broken the UK record an incredible 7 times. The majority of entries to the 2016 official weigh-in at the Southampton pumpkin event were grown from seeds that came from giant pumpkins grown by the Patons. Seeds from the Paton twins’ 2016 record-breaking giant pumpkin are still available from T&M if customers want to invest in some excellent giant pumpkin genes. Go to Pumpkin ‘Paton Twins Giant’ to purchase.
RHS Hyde Hall’s Matt Oliver won the award in 2016 for the largest outdoor-grown pumpkin with a seed purchased for £1,250 by Thompson & Morgan. His pumpkin weighed in at an astounding 1,333.8lb (95 stone or 605kg) and the seeds from this aptly named ‘Matt’s Monster’ can also be purchased from Thompson & Morgan. Matt had the crazy idea of hollowing out his pumpkin, along with some other giant pumpkins, and rowing them across the RHS Hyde Hall lake in November last year. Watch the Madcap Giant Pumpkin Rowing Race by clicking the image below
Giant pumpkin race
Whether you want try to grow a whopper or simply a modest-sized pumpkin to carve at Halloween, we are urging people to sow their seeds today. We’ll be posting tips and updates on social media over the coming months, so be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep in touch with us, as well as with other budding pumpkin growers, using #growapumpkin
Did you know? Pumpkin seeds are best sown on their sides
Our how to plant pumpkin seeds video guide can be found here
Next Wednesday, April 12th, is National Pumpkin Sowing Day and we are urging the British public to get involved. Whether you’re a gardener or not, it’s easy to pop a pumpkin seed into a pot of compost and watch it grow.
We launched a specific seed sowing day in response to the many pumpkin-related queries we receive in October when pumpkins are in shops in the lead up to Halloween.
“We sponsor the UK’s giant pumpkin growing competition each autumn and we always get so many enquiries at the weigh-in, asking how to grow pumpkins at home”, said Paul Hansord, our commercial director and himself a keen pumpkin grower.
“So we’ve decided to set a date and once people have sown their seeds, we’ll support them with growing tips and advice – whether they’re aiming to grow a giant record-breaking pumpkin or a good-sized one for carving at Halloween.”
You’ll remember that we made the news in 2016 when we paid £1,250 for a single pumpkin seed. Its pedigree was proven when RHS Hyde Hall’s Matt Oliver won the award for the largest outdoor-grown pumpkin from this very seed and now the seeds from his appropriately-named, ‘Matt’s Monster’ can be purchased from T&M at a cost of £7.99 for 3 seeds.
For those wishing to grow a more modest-sized pumpkin other pumpkin seeds are available from T&M, such as ‘Jack Of All Trades’, for carving at Halloween or for those who simply have a penchant for pumpkin pie or a hearty pumpkin soup.
We will be supporting pumpkin growers after they have sown their seeds with information on how to grow giant pumpkins and on growing regular pumpkins for Halloween on our website, as well as with timely posts on social media.
Matthew Oliver, of RHS Hyde Hall, rows hollowed-out UK record-breaking pumpkin in daring stunt
Had aliens landed in East Anglia this morning, they might have been forgiven for thinking that they’d stumbled upon some very strange goings on. Windy weather had caused traffic chaos on the A12 and A14 in the Ipswich area and grown men and women were rowing hollowed out pumpkins on a lake in Essex.
Matthew Oliver, horticulturist at RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford, not content with having successfully grown the heaviest outdoor-grown pumpkin in the UK, decided to turn his record-breaker into a boat and to attempt to row it across the lake at the RHS Essex site today.
Matt Oliver and his Giant Pumpkin Boat!
Not only did Matthew launch his 1,333.8lb (95 stone or 605kg) pumpkin, he also managed to persuade 3 others to get aboard other giant pumpkins which were huge, but hadn’t grown quite big enough to break any records. Taking part were Steve Usher of Motorboat & Yachting magazine, dressed as a pirate, and 2 intrepid ladies who work at RHS Hyde Hall and who had daringly volunteered to (wo)man two of the potentially un-lake-worthy ‘boats’.
Matt Oliver scooping the pumpkin out & Matt and Paul Hansord scooping the bottom!
Having hollowed out the giant pumpkins, the valiant sailors set off, using oars to propel the cumbersome craft across the designated course. Prior to the event, Matthew had voiced some concerns about the ‘floatability’ of the giant pumpkins and how he might extract the waterlogged pumpkin hulls from the lake should they sink.
Matt and Paul Hansord from Thomspon & Morgan scooping out the bottom
However, his fears were unfounded and, whilst one pumpkin foundered at the start of the course, the other 3 made it safely over the finishing line.
Sailing on the lake in a pumpkin boat!
The seeds from Matthew’s record-breaking pumpkin will be available for purchase from Thompson & Morgan ready for next year’s growing season.
Anyone who would like to try their hand at growing a record-breaking giant pumpkin, can find Thompson & Morgan’s top tips at www.thompson-morgan.com/giantpumpkins
Matt Oliver wins again!
Pumpkin Facts & Figures
The pumpkin seed was bought for £1,250 at auction by Paul Hansord from Ipswich-based plant and seed merchant, Thompson & Morgan. The seed came from the then heaviest pumpkin in the world, which weighed 2,323 lb (166 stone) grown by Beni Meier from Switzerland in 2014.
The seed was entrusted to RHS horticulturist, Matthew Oliver back in April. Matthew then spent seven months nurturing the world’s most expensive pumpkin seed in the hope of breaking a new world record.
At the official weigh-in at Southampton on 8 October, the Pumpkin Commonwealth confirmed that Matthew’s pumpkin was the heaviest outdoor-grown pumpkin in the UK at 1,333.8 lbs
After the official weigh-in the pumpkin returned to Hyde Hall and took centre stage in a Halloween-themed pumpkin display.
The seeds will be harvested from the UK giant pumpkin with the intention that they will be available to purchase from Thompson & Morgan in time for next year’s growing season.
Thompson & Morgan, after giving a call out to pumpkin growers in the UK finally entrusted the world’s most expensive pumpkin seed, to experts at the Royal Horticultural Society. The pumpkin seed was bought for a whopping £1,250, and has built-in genetics to increase the chance of breaking the world record for the largest pumpkin grown. The RHS then delegated this awesome task to Matthew Oliver, their horticulturalist, at RHS Hyde Hall. He has grown the pumpkin through the summer, with a view to breaking the world record for Thompson & Morgan and the RHS.
There is lots of excitement surrounding this venture, both at Thompson & Morgan and the RHS, and today is the day Thompson & Morgan’s enormous pumpkin will be travelling to Southampton on the back of a lorry. The lorry has been designed to hold this type of unusual load, so the pumpkin will be secure, with no likelihood of it rolling overboard on the journey.
This journey will take all day and the pumpkin, and its carers, will arrive in Southampton tonight, where the pumpkin will have its own security guard who will be keeping a close eye on it. The Jubilee Sailing Trust Autumn Pumpkin Festival is on the 8th October 2016, where the weigh in is performed. At the festival there is competition from all over the UK for this fantastic accolade. Everyone at Thompson & Morgan is on tender hooks hoping that Matthew will bring home the UK crown. No-one more so than the Managing Director Paul Hansord, who was the original purchaser of the expensive pumpkin seed way back in February 2016. Good luck Matthew Oliver and Paul Hansord.
Thompson & Morgan donates world’s most expensive pumpkin seed to Hyde Hall vegetable grower
Following a nationwide hunt to find a gardener brave enough to sow the world’s most expensive pumpkin seed, Thompson & Morgan has delivered a seed of the current world record-breaking pumpkin (2,323lb, grown by Beni Meier in 2014) to the vegetable garden at RHS Hyde Hall, Essex. The mail order seed and plant specialist paid a record £1,250 for the seed at auction at the World Pumpkin Commonwealth Conference earlier in the season, in a bid to boost UK pumpkin genetics and see a world record contender grown on UK shores for the first time.
Paul Hansord handing over the giant pumpkin seed to Matthew Oliver
Thompson & Morgan director Paul Hansord delivered the precious seed to RHS horticulturist, Matthew Oliver, on 13 April. Armed with a crib sheet of Thompson & Morgan’s tips for success he promptly set the seed into potting compost, eager to make a start on the giant undertaking. Adding to the pressure, all this was carried out in front of a film crew from BBC Inside Out East, who will be following his progress through the season. A full report will be aired on the BBC1 show in the build up to Halloween.
Fortunately Matthew already has some good experience under his belt. Hyde Hall has become renowned for its pumpkin patch in recent years. Around 60 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds are grown at the Chelmsford garden each year, with thousands of visitors attending events through autumn to see the produce on display.
Matthew said: “Our largest pumpkins always draw a crowd, so I have been concentrating more time and effort on growing giant specimens in recent years. In 2015 I produced a 530lb giant and I already had big plans for 2016. We’ve built a larger patch (150x40ft) giving me space to grow four giant plants. Soil conditions have been improved and so have the irrigation systems, wind shelter and feeding programmes have all been planned to encourage the heaviest fruits.”
Sanding down the seed coating for quicker germination
Growing outdoors, Matthew admits he is unlikely to break the world record, but has set a personal target around the 1,000lb mark, which would make his attempt the heaviest outdoor pumpkin ever grown in the UK. He also hopes his attempt will encourage others to try in the future. He said: “Outdoor growing is much more achievable for home gardeners, and once they see the results at Hyde Hall I hope others will take up the challenge in their own gardens and allotments. Pumpkins are such a rewarding hobby plant.”
Matthew now has until 8th October to grow the biggest possible specimen and get it to the UK official weigh in at the Autumn Pumpkin Festival, Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley, Southampton.
The pumpkin patch will be on show to all Hyde Hall garden visitors through the season.
Thompson & Morgan was swamped with requests to grow the seed. Impressed with the passion of many of the entrants, it has sent seeds from several other heavyweight pumpkins (1689-2008lb specimens) to five other interested growers: Joanne Jackson, Cheshire; Guy French, Essex; Anthony & Sally Pooley, Suffolk, George Richardson, County Durham, and Mr Hill, Cantubury


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Over 8,00,000 vehicles from VW Group are reportedly found to have inaccurate delivery figures to fake performance level
Volkswagen’s French arm has reportedly faked its delivery statistics in order to maintain a better vibe among customers according to a German publication called Der Spiegel. Pointing at an inside report from the brand’s auditors, it has discovered that several models being by owners had entered the registration phase only months or even years after they were delivered.
Moreover, the German marque was alleged to have classified various cars as being delivered despite them not having purchase contracts. Not just Volkswagen-badged cars but the models from its sister brands like Audi, Skoda and homegrown Seat have falsified the delivery status allegedly.
The improper information was given to a massive lot of 8,00,000 vehicles combining all the VW Group’s brands together. The magazine further responded on this matter and said that the former Chief Executive Officer, Matthias Mueller, was informed about the inaccurate delivery figures a few months ago and in a short period after, the French division’s head of operations, Jacques Rivoal resigned citing “strategic differences” with his former employer.
The auditors discovered a huge number of vehicles being registered by their owners after a big delay, a process that normally requires only a few weeks. Volkswagen has declined to comment on this issue so far. VW’s French operations began in 2010 and this allegation could further damage its reputation worldwide following the diesel emission cheating scandal.
Volkswagen’s cost-cutting measures are on full-swing as it is finding ways to recover the loss due to penalties, buybacks and compensations. If the inaccurate delivery figures are proven, they might get into more legal problems from the French government’s authorities.


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The United Kingdom is due to officially leave the European Union on 29th March 2019 and it is still unclear whether a “no-deal” Brexit is a likely outcome. It is widely agreed that a “no-deal” Brexit would be a bad outcome for both the UK and the European Union.
One of the many concerns surrounding a “no-deal” Brexit is the border disruption that could be seen due to increased customs delays. Some experts are warning that the disruption could last for up to six months. If this prediction proves to be correct, we will undoubtedly see major shortages in industries such as food and medicine. To counteract this potential delay, the UK Government has asked drug companies to create stockpiles in the UK with at least six weeks worth of supplies.
Most drug companies have obliged, however some believe that stockpiling is not an effective way to combat the delays, but rather alternative supply routes should be considered for high priority goods. The health secretary said the NHS should prepare to use alternative routes in the event of disruption on cross-channel routes, including the use of planes to fly in supplies.
While stockpiling is likely to be a major inconvenience for the drug and food companies, it provides a unique short-term increase in business for logistics and warehousing companies. The UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) is reporting that around 75 per cent of their 700 members are operating at full capacity. To put this in context, warehouses would usually operate at around 85-90% capacity. Similarly, The Food Storage and Distribution Federation (FSDF), which represents 350 warehouse owners and 75% of all commercially available frozen and chilled food warehouses in the country, said its members were turning customers away.
As a result of this, warehousing costs have increased by up to 25% over the past 3 months. This is good news for logistics and warehousing industries as they will likely benefit from the increasing uncertainty surrounding Brexit. However this was not always the case, as the sharp fall in the value of the pound caused fuel prices to increase dramatically, and the departure of many eastern European workers on whom the industry relied caused labour costs to increase.
Personal Stockpiles –
It’s not just companies that are stockpiling food and medicine though. In fact, ITV News reports that one in five Britons are considering stockpiling food in case of a “no-deal” Brexit – and 5% of Britons have already started!
The main issue is that it is not so easy to stockpile medicine as most medicines are only available through a monthly prescription, so it is not possible to stockpile six-month worth of medication. It is therefore up to the drug companies to provide a continuous supply of medicine and prevent shortages, but this may be difficult given the current lack of warehouse space.
What are your thoughts? Let us know if you have considered personally stockpiling or if you will be asking your Supplier to?


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It’s that time of the year where we get the big news from all of the major publishers. That’s correct, the writer’s worst enemy and the businessman’s best friend: The end of the fiscal year.
Activision, while they dropped sad news today of discontinuation of Guitar Hero for 2011 and layoffs at DJ Hero developer Freestyle Games, along with the outright cancellation of the upcoming True Crime: Hong Kong, did announce a new free-to-play game in the Call of Duty franchise. No news on who the developer is, but we do know that this microtransaction-based game is being designed for the Chinese market.
This falls in line with Activision’s plans on a push into the Chinese market with a later release of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm.
[Update] Activision also plans to reveal a major new game/toy/online franchise at the upcoming Toy Fair in New York in just a couple of days.
[Update 2] Activision will face a 7% headcount reduction globally in 2011, which equates to roughly 500 staff. The Blizzard arm of the company will see growth of staff, to work on Starcraft 2‘s second chapter and the “Untitled New Blizzard MMO”. Activision also announced the formation of Beachhead Studios, which will focus on digital content for the Call of Duty franchise.
[Update 3] Dan Amrich of Activision has stated on his company blog that no decision has been made to cancel the Guitar Hero franchise, just that it will not be created for 2011 release and not by a separate business Guitar Hero group. Consider it a “…much-needed break,” he also states. We can’t agree more.
Check back for more news, as we will update as soon as possible.


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Comet Communications Inc., Expands its Footprint in the Health and Wellness Industry with "On Hand Wellness" Campaign.
Calgary, Alberta - [November 9, 2020] - Comet Communications Inc., an emerging marketing and consulting company based in Calgary, Alberta, is thrilled to announce its latest venture in the health and wellness industry with the launch of a comprehensive two-year marketing campaign for "On Hand Wellness," a medium-sized business specializing in promoting healthy lifestyles and well-being with the release of its repackaged and redistributed proprietary hand lotion, a new-comer to the competition stemming from Purell as COVID-19 reaches the masses.
Comet Communications Inc. has established itself as a prominent player in the marketing landscape, providing innovative solutions to businesses across various industries. With a deep understanding of the evolving market dynamics, the company has strategically expanded its services into the thriving health and wellness sector, leveraging its expertise to empower businesses in this rapidly growing market.
The "On Hand Wellness" campaign marks a significant milestone for Comet Communications Inc. as it strengthens its partnership with a dynamic player in the health and wellness industry. Drawing upon its extensive experience and a team of seasoned professionals, Comet Communications Inc. is committed to developing a tailored marketing strategy that will elevate "On Hand Wellness" to new heights of success. Through this two-year campaign, Comet Communications Inc. aims to enhance brand awareness, drive customer engagement, and expand the reach of "On Hand Wellness" to a wider audience. The campaign will leverage a multi-channel approach, combining digital marketing, social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and targeted advertising to create a comprehensive and impactful marketing strategy.
Comet Communications Inc. understands that the health and wellness industry requires a unique approach, considering the growing demand for products and services that promote personal well-being. By leveraging its knowledge and insights, Comet Communications Inc. will work closely with "On Hand Wellness" to develop creative and innovative campaigns that resonate with their target audience. "We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with 'On Hand Wellness' and further establish our presence in the health and wellness industry," said John Anderson, CEO of Comet Communications Inc. "Our team is dedicated to providing 'On Hand Wellness' with the strategic marketing solutions they need to effectively communicate their value proposition and engage with their customers in a meaningful way."
Comet Communications Inc. remains committed to delivering exceptional results and driving measurable growth for its clients. By expanding into the health and wellness sector, the company solidifies its position as a reliable partner for businesses seeking to make a lasting impact in the market.
About Comet Communications Inc. Comet Communications Inc. is a leading marketing company based in Calgary, Alberta, dedicated to providing cutting-edge marketing solutions across various industries. With a team of talented professionals, the company offers a comprehensive range of services, including digital marketing, branding, advertising, and strategic consulting.
For media inquiries, please contact: Name: Joseph Fisher Title: Owner, Comet Communications Inc. Email: email@example.com Phone: 778-836-8454


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Inflation was up again in January by 0.5%, according to a report issued this week by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Along with overall inflation, prices of many food items are getting higher.
Much of the current inflation issue has been traced back to COVID-19 pandemic related supply chain issues. With the impacts of the pandemic waning somewhat, why are prices still high?
Eat This, Not That reported Wednesday that prices for six particular food items are skyrocketing. These include:
· Spaghetti and macaroni – according to the outlet, the average retail price for spaghetti and macaroni products is $1.48 per pound, up 2.9% last month and over 32% since last year.
· Flour and sugar – the average cost of flour was $0.54 per pound in January, up 3.4% in January and up over 27% since last year. Average sugar prices increased 1.9% last month to $0.86 per pound, close to 22% higher than last January.
· Chocolate chip cookies – these are now nearly $5.06 per pound, up 1.7% since December and almost 20% compared to last year.
· White and wheat bread – white bread is $1.88 per pound on average, up 0.8% last month and over 21% since January 2022, and wheat bread now costs $2.45 per pound, an increase of 1.3% in January and over 15% year over year.
· American cheese – currently costs $4.72 per pound, an increase of 1.3% last month and over 19% from a year ago.
· Eggs – a dozen grade A, large eggs now cost $4.82, up 13.5% since December and a 150% year over year.
In addition to pandemic-related supply chain issues, CBS News noted that an avian flu epidemic contributed to the increased price of eggs. Climate issues, weather events and the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine have also impacted food prices.
“There’s also another school of thought, particularly popular among left-leaning lawmakers and policy makers: Food producers may be raising costs simply because they can,” said the CBS. “One corporate watchdog group has accused food manufacturers and retailers of boosting prices unnecessarily because that was more feasible at a time when consumers are braced for inflation.”
This week, CNN Business reported that Nestlé – the world’s largest food group – plans to increase the price of staple items this year. The Switzerland-based company already increased prices by 8.2% in 2022, but its profits took a hit.
“We are still in a situation where we’re repairing our gross margin and, like all the consumers around the world, we’ve been hit by inflation and now we’re trying to repair the damage that has been done,” Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider said on a call with reporters Thursday, according to CNN Business.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, food index increased 0.5 percent in January along with the overall Consumer Price Index.
“Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased over the month,” it said.
The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs increased by 0.7% over the month, the index for eggs rose 8.5%, the index for cereals and bakery products rose 1% over the month and the index for nonalcoholic beverages increased 0.4% percent in January. On the other hand, the fruits and vegetables index fell 0.5% over the month and the fresh vegetables index declining 2.3% while the dairy related index was unchanged.
Prices for all six categories increased during the 12-month period ending in January.
Food prices are expected to increase by 7.1% in 2023, according to a U.S.
Department of Agriculture forecast. While this rate is above historical averages, it would still be slower than the increases seen last year.
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Grab to TikTok: Despite the rampant layoffs, these 7 tech firms in S’pore are still hiring
NUS gives better job prospects than Yale, Princeton, LSE – ranks just behind Oxford, Stanford
5 M’sian SME bosses share their biggest hiring mistakes, and how they overcame them
Meta to Twitter: 8 tech firms that are laying off employees, including in S’pore offices
5 reasons to treat your employees with an office at Colony’s luxury coworking spaces
DEI at the workplace brings about enormous benefits, so why aren’t businesses doing more of it?
5 benefits of ASUS’ newest detachable laptop that professionals & students will appreciate
Tech layoffs in Silicon Valley are hitting S’pore shores, but local tech demand remains high
Shopee axes more employees in its third round of layoffs – staff in S’pore office also affected
Ghosting doesn’t just happen in dating world – it’s now haunting the recruitment process too
Is it time for S’pore to embrace the four-day work week? Our ministers seem to think so
Mature PMEs face challenges at the workplace, but what’s being done to tackle this?
Nation of unhappy workers: Why S’poreans are more overworked than everyone else in APAC
Here’s what IPC’s new work pods can offer mall goers who are also workaholics
Winners & losers in the S’pore job market: changes in demand by profession as of Sep. 2022
Global payments company Wise to double headcount in S’pore to over 400 employees by end-2022
More than work-life balance: How hybrid working can also better job opportunities for women
Job-hopping has earned a bad rep among employers, but it’s a valid way to increase salaries
Bet you didn’t know this 13 Y/O M’sian studio brought some of your fave AAA games to life
How we gave our office a complete makeover after 2 years of WFH (the results shocked us)
M’sian digital nomads, here’s what you can get out of MDEC’s DE Rantau initiative
Infrastructure, talent, innovation: Dr. Janil on building blocks of S’pore’s digital economy
Shopee implements regional job cuts to curb losses – axes some staff in S’pore and Indonesia
S’pore’s new One Pass sparks foreign talent debate – should “skills transfer” be a requirement?
Quiet quitting— the new workplace standard in S’pore to replace hustle culture?
You can now make money in design even if you don’t know what Photoshop is, thanks to AI
S’pore’s work pass changes show foreign talent importance, more than natural population growth
foodpanda partners Syfe to offer riders free financial workshops as part of upskilling efforts
Are you a Gen Z creator looking for your next job? Here’s how this platform can help.
377A repeal embraces LGBT+ workplace equality, while respecting traditional family values
Singapore has undoubtedly been a bright spot for the global startup landscape in recent years, and is home to a number of unicorns.
In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and governments have released policies and grants aimed at boosting its adoption.
Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, e-commerce has boomed in popularity, with consumers buying everything from home appliances to groceries online.
foodpanda is a leading delivery platform in Asia dedicated to bringing consumers a wide range of food, groceries and more, quickly and conveniently.
Amid soaring demand for online and mobile alternatives, new digital players are transforming banking for individuals and companies.
Interest in cryptocurrency is at an all-time high, and Singapore has emerged as a key blockchain and crypto hub in Asia.
A look at how the Singapore government has been harnessing technology to improve lives for all.
The global pandemic has disrupted lifestyles, healthcare, workplace cultures, business operations, and more.
Vulcan Post aims to be the knowledge hub of Singapore and Malaysia.
© 2021 GRVTY Media Pte. Ltd.(UEN 201431998C.)


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About Intel’s latest announcement regarding Optane product line
By Charles Fan, CEO
On the Intel Q2 2022 earnings call today, Pat Gelsinger announced that Intel is winding down the Optane product line. One important reason is that, like the rest of the industry, Pat clearly sees CXL as the emerging memory technology standard. This decision will allow Intel to concentrate its resources on supporting CXL memory and remain a leading force in the Big Memory future.
For MemVerge, our vision for bringing about Big Memory is unaffected. If anything, this brings clarity that CXL technology is the fundamental building block for Big Memory and it validates our thesis five years ago when we started the company. Optane was a groundbreaking technology that sparked the Big Memory revolution. Now a vibrant CXL ecosystem is forming, including Intel, AMD, Samsung, SK Hynix, Micron and many other industry leaders who are ready to bring Big Memory mainstream.
Naturally, we will continue to work with Intel to support current Optane customers, and even help new customers who can reap the value of Optane for a few years to come. Our commitments to our customers and partners remain unchanged. MemVerge software is of course not dependent on Optane. It supports DRAM-only environments both in the cloud and on-prem, and it will have full support for all new CXL memory products coming to the market. In fact, with MemVerge software, customers will be able to painlessly migrate their applications from an Optane infrastructure to a CXL-memory infrastructure in the future.
I am super excited that next Tuesday, MemVerge is hosting a full-day CXL Forum at the Flash Memory Summit, where we will have speakers from many major players in CXL, from memory, to CPU, to software vendors presenting their vision and their upcoming CXL products. We will also have two new product announcements of our own at the show. You can find the full CXL Forum agenda and register to watch remotely at https://memverge.com/cxl-getting-ready-for-take-off/ Hope to see you all there! Register to attend FMS in Santa Clara at https://flash-memory.omnievent.com/2022/step-1-prelim.


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Grocers Gather in D.C. to Advocate on Industry Issues
Grocery retailers, wholesalers and food industry state association executives representing more than 30 states assembled in Washington, D.C. today to urge Congress to act on pro-business reforms that impact the bottom lines of supermarket retailers and wholesalers.
Members of the National Grocers Association (NGA), Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and the Food Industry Association Executives (FIAE) joined together for the annual "Day in Washington" congressional fly-in, during which grocery company executives and operators meet with their members of Congress and key Congressional staff to discuss issues of importance to the supermarket industry, such as healthcare, tax reform, FDA menu labeling and swipe fees.
Regarding health care, the supermarket industry supports changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that would increase their ability to maintain health coverage and comply with the law. Such changes include amending the ACA’s 30-hours per week full-time employee definition to be in line with the current workforce and fair labor standards; supporting H.R. 1254 to repeal a redundant and confusing mandatory auto-enrollment provision; and restoring the ability for customers to use their Flexible Spending Account (FSA) card for purchases of Over-the-Counter (OTC) medicines without a prescription.
Supermarket operators are also urging Members of Congress to co-sponsor H.R. 1249, the Common Sense Nutritional Disclosure Act, bi-partisan legislation that would, in part, ensure that Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not capture mainstream grocery stores in chain restaurant menu labeling regulations.
“Supermarkets are job creators, employing 3.4 million workers, and they’re also inherent to the financial health of their communities, as evidenced by an average of $92 per U.S. household in weekly sales,” said FMI president and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin. “It’s great for members of Congress to hear directly from the grocers in their districts about how even the slightest nuances to legislation or regulation can impact their 1-percent-profit-margin-businesses.”
With Congress focused on taking up tax reform, attendees are urging their elected officials to ensure reform is fair and equitable among both C-corporations and pass-through entities, such as S-Corporations and LLCs, while preserving pro-growth tax provisions such as bonus depreciation and expensing. The industry believes Congress should also focus on reforming the tax code, and not try to raise revenue from other areas. The Last In, First Out (LIFO) accounting method is not a tax provision, and repeal would create a new, phantom tax that does not meet the basic standards of fairness and equity, according to industry groups. The supermarket industry is also urging members of Congress to support the Marketplace Fairness Act (H.R. 684/S. 336), legislation that closes a 20-year loophole and helps create a level playing field for brick and mortar retailers.
Attendees of the Day in Washington are also addressing the issue of credit card swipe fees, which remains one of the highest operational expenses for retailers. With no ability to negotiate or decrease these fees, the average credit card swipe fee of 2 percent is often higher than the profit margin for many transactions. The supermarket industry strongly supports swipe fee reforms through maintaining and improving debit reform and moving toward more fair and equitable credit card swipe fees.