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New report highlights the growth of mobile commerce
Affiliate Window, a firm providing a wide range of services to the marketing industry, has released a new report concerning the growth of the mobile commerce industry. The report suggests that mobile commerce is growing at a staggering pace, exceeding some of the predictions made about the industry over the past two years. The pace at which mobile commerce is expanding is exposing more consumers to the industry and making them more comfortable with making mobile payments. This trend is expected to continue for some time.
Comfort with mobile devices making consumers more accommodating of mobile commerce
The report notes that consumers are becoming increasingly reliant on mobile devices. These devices are used to conduct a wide range of activities that consumers consider important to their daily lives. As this becomes more commonplace, consumers are likely to become more comfortable with the prospect of using their mobile devices to make purchases of goods and services.
Technology Quotes That Invite Thought -
Report shows that iPad dominates in terms of mobile sales and browsing
According to the report, mobile sales rose by 7% and traffic increased by 12% in April 2012 over the levels they had been in the previous year. Apple’s iPad has become a popular platform for mobile shopping and browsing, accounting for 55% of all mobile sales conducted thus far in 2012.The iPhone follows closely behind with 29% market share, and Android accounting for 11% of the market. The report shows that the majority of mobile traffic appears to be in the fashion retail sector.
Safety continues to be a series issue
The mobile commerce industry is growing despite fears regarding the security of mobile payments. Many of the security concerns that are rife in the burgeoning industry are focused on NFC technology, which has, thus far, been a strong foundation for the industry. Security enthusiasts are calling into question whether NFC technology is safe enough to use. Despite concerns, the mobile commerce industry has not shown any signs of abandoning NFC technology, opting instead to bolster the security features of the technology.


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Facing an avalanche of demand for e-cigarettes it says are illegal, Health Canada is doing little to stop them, leading Ontario vendors say.
The inaction has been so bad, sellers have stepped up to regulate themselves, voluntarily testing their products for safety, said Daniel David, owner of Evape and a founding director of the Electronic Cigarette Trade Association of Canada.
“Canada’s Electronic Cigarette Industry (has) operated under a ‘Wild West’ principle for far too long,” the association wrote on its website.
Some vendors say Health Canada sends threatening letters and e-mails tho those who sell e-cigarettes with nicotine, telling them to cease and desist, but when the sales continue, doesn’t seize their products and doesn’t lay charges.
In an e-mail to The Free Press, Health Canada spokesperson Blossom Leung wrote the agency “continues to refuse both personal importations of electronic cigarettes with nicotine and commercial importations in the absence of market authorization.”
But while the regulator asks the Canada Border Agency to seize products before they get into the country, most vendors say they’ve have had little loss — David estimates he’s lost between 1% and 2% of his imports.
The lack of policing means some Canadians buy e-cigarettes whose contents aren’t tested, placing them at risk and threatening the name of good producers, David said.
“This product really needs to be regulated,” said David, whose company has grown five-fold since 2010 and distributes its products through four Ontario stores.
Health Canada this week didn’t reply to Free Press questions asking to detail what it’s done to crack down on e-cigarettes since it issued an advisory in 2009 banning their import or sale if they contain nicotine or make claims of health benefits.
One seller, Cindy Lanning, has openly advertised e-cigarettes with nicotine on her website for three-and-a-half years.
Canadians who buy at her site, Rainbowvapor.com, choose their strength of nicotine from drop-down menus.
“I openly sell nicotine and they ignored me,” Lanning said from the Midland, Ont. home where she has her business.
Health Canada once persuaded her Internet provider to shut down the site, she said, but she convinced it to put it back up hours later. She estimates her online business has grown 10-fold.
“It’s huge,” she said.
Like David, she wants Health Canada to create real regulations that require testing. Both also applaud the agency for shutting down a Quebec vendor who made claims of health benefits — the only time the agency has shut down a vendor, as far as the two know.
Consumers want sensible regulations, too, said Matthew Stanko. He’s part of an advocacy group that started in May, Canadians Advocating Vapers Rights, that already has 381 members.
While Health Canada “banned” sales of e-cigarettes with nicotine, its stance has led vendors and consumers to conclude they are legal.
Big Tobacco has bought e-cigarette companies or is creating its own.
“(Tobacco companies) see this as a golden gate of money,” Stanko said.
Stanko started “vaping” — breathing the vapours of e-cigarettes — so he wouldn’t go back to smoking, a habit that’s claimed the lives of family.
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- Health Canada vowed to stop the sale of e-cigarettes containing nicotine.
- Four years later, the agency is mostly silent about what it’s done.
- Sellers say Health Canada almost never impedes sales.
- Heat liquids until they’re vaporized and can be inhaled.
- A clinical trial, results published this month, showed they have promise as a tool to quit smoking.
- Health groups say more testing is needed.

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One of the most awaited films of 2017 is Gautamiputra Satakarni and every update regarding this film has so much attention from the audience.
Well here one update is out regarding its audio launch. Unfortunately the audio launch which was scheduled on 16th of December at temple town Tirupathi got postponed. Unavailability of legendary actress Hema Malini for the audio launch on that particular date is cited as the reason behind this postponement and even Balakrishna & the entire team also felt her absence would be a great void in the audio launch.
Meanwhile the GPSK team chalking out the new dates and they would announce the new audio launch date soon. However this update comes out as disappointing one for the Nandamuri fans.


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The end to a 98-year tradition was signalled last week when the French Rugby Federation (FFR) quietly slipped out that it was finally going to sell the front of the French national rugby team’s shirt to a sponsor – the last major rugby-playing nation to do so.
When rugby union turned pro in the mid-1990s, the RFU and most of their equivalents worldwide immediately sold their shirts to sponsors. In England’s case, for example, to BT Cellnet – a deal which continues to this day with the company that BT Cellnet became, O2.
But two countries held out: France and New Zealand. And when New Zealand sold the famous All Black shirt to an American insurance company in 2012, Les Bleus became the only major national rugby team who chose to continue to take the field with unbranded shirts. Until now.
The driving force behind this volte face is new FFR President Bernard Laporte, the former head coach of Les Bleus, who proposed it as part of his successful Presidential campaign last year.
Like those original mid-90s rugby shirt sponsorships, Laporte’s motivation is naturally to generate extra cash, which he wants to use to increase the funding of French grass roots rugby.
But this is much, much more than a commercial decision by the FFR. It is also a big philosophical pivot.
Just how big is illustrated by comments in the last two years by the FFR’s then head of marketing Bernard Godet.
In March 2015 he told French paper L’Equipe that the FFR had received three unsolicited offers for Les Bleus’ shirt sponsorship, but that they had all been “rejected outright without studying them” because the French national team shirt is “a symbol".
"We remain committed to this principle and we are very proud, even if the All Blacks gave in," he said. "We are the last ones.”
And only last year he told Le Monde that the FFR would not “yield to the sirens’ money [and] sell our soul. The French shirt is ultimately a kind of flag, not to be tainted with a brand of coffee, or car, or olive oil.”
Strong stuff. And as a result Bernard Laporte offered a concession to those of this philosophy during his Presidential campaign, by proposing that Les Bleus’ shirt sponsorship should only be sold to a “a beautiful French flagship brand.”
But when the FFR revealed last week that it was going to sell Les Bleus’ shirt to a sponsor, it also revealed that it had given a first option on the sponsorship to the FFR’s top sponsors – one of which, BMW, is not French – before opening it up to all comers.
Admittedly, the FFR also stated that Laporte has set very strong guidelines for a potential sponsor, and will only approve a brand which matches perfectly with the French team and its values.
Whilst this type of statement by sporting officialdom is usually more honoured in the breach than the observance, Laporte will be under pressure in France to justify it whenever Les Bleus’ first shirt sponsor is revealed.
There’s also no doubt that there will be high demand for the sponsorship given the popularity of rugby in France, the size of the French economy, the domestic and international media visibility of the shirt, and the cachet of becoming Les Bleus’ first shirt sponsor.
And by opening up the opportunity to international brands, the FFR have significantly increased their chances of achieving a deal at the upper level of their €6m-10m (£5.2m) estimate, which would make it one of the most valuable in world rugby along with those of England and New Zealand.


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While many investors waited to see how much of a drag Google’s (NASDAQ:GOOG) purchase of Motorola Mobility was continuing to have on its bottom line, a smaller company reaping the benefits of the transaction was quietly celebrating.
The company is Arris Group (NASDAQ:ARRS), and it just finalized a deal with Google to acquire Motorola Home. As part of its $12.5 billion buy of Motorola, Google became the owner of Motorola Home, which was the company’s TV set-top business. It didn’t fit with the search engine giant’s ecosystem, and it immediately began shopping around for interested buyers for it after acquiring Motorola Mobility.
When Google found Arris as a potential buyer of the set-top business, it was ideal for both companies. Google was able to shed the unwanted business and focus on making Motorola’s mobile business profitable for it. In addition to getting a leg up in the hardware business for mobile devices, the acquisition of Motorola Mobility allows Google to get its hands on some highly desired patents. As you know, there is no shortage of litigation in the tech world when it comes to patents, especially over smartphones and tablets. Most notable are the battles between Google and Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) in which patent infringement lawsuit wars are being waged on just about every continent on the planet.
Buying the set-top business from Google was ideal for Arris because it was able to pick up a business that fits neatly in its efforts to grow in the telecommunications space. Through the purchase of Motorola Home, Arris will have a global presence with more than 500 customers in 70 countries. This will more than triple the company’s pro forma combined revenue to roughly $4.7 billion for the trailing four quarter period ended Sept. 30, 2012.
But not everyone is happy about Arris. Zacks Equity Research last week downgraded Arris based on its high-level of current valuation. In the report, Zacks noted that Arris is currently trading at a significantly higher multiple with respect to several valuation metrics compared with the S&P 500 as the stock’s price has soared more than 50% over the last year and is currently trading within a 52-week high channel.
While we agree that ARRS is at high valuations the potential for growth is like an embedded call option. For example, its forward P/E ratio (calculated based on forward earnings expectations) is much lower than the S&P 500 current or forward average. That is clearly speculative but ultimately traders aren’t making decisions about what they know now but what they anticipate for the future.
Click to Enlarge In our opinion, the biggest concern with ARRS is a potential emerging head and shoulders pattern. The stock has not broken out yet, however, a break below $16 per share would be a sell signal. At this point we recommend opening a long position on the stock on a break above $17.50 or short term resistance. That would ‘break’ the potential reversal pattern and signal further upside potential in the short term.
On Wednesday ARRS reported its fiscal 2013 first quarter earnings. ARRS beat the consensus EPS estimate by one cent, coming in at 25 cents. For the first quarter of 2012, the EPS was 19 cents.
Given all of the positives that Arris will reap from the acquisition of Motorola Home, we disagree with Zacks’ concerns over Arris that prompted the company’s downgrade. Zacks even acknowledged the positives that result for Arris from the Motorola Home acquisition, with one of them being the company gaining a strong foothold in the video offerings market. Also important is that the transaction will reduce Arris’ dependence on Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) and Time Warner Cable (NASDAQ:TWC) which together constitute about half of the company’s total revenue.
Consider going long on Arris. We like buying opportunities above $17.50 per share to reduce the possibility of a completed head and shoulders pattern. The chain sheet for ARRS is a little thin but we still like the August 17.50 Calls for $1.00 or less. A limit order set between the bid and ask prices should be able to be filled if you are patient.
Recommendation:Buy ARRS on a break above $17.50. Set stops underneath the potential head and shoulders pattern to protect capital
Option Alternative: Buy to open the August $17.50 Calls for $1.00 or less with a limit order set between the bid and ask prices.
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Investor Place advisors John Jagerson and S. Wade Hansen are co-founders of LearningMarkets.com, as well as the co-editors of SlingShot Trader, a trading service designed to help you make options profits by trading the news. Get in on the next trade and get 1 free month today by clicking here.


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It’s Pokemon fever all over again! Just last week McDonald’s launched the exclusive Pikachu carrier. To some, it was just in time for mid-autumn. Throw in lighted fairy lights and it transforms into a beautiful lantern. The trading card and game mat that come with it are bonuses. This is still available at S$12.90 with selected meals from McDonald’s till 22 September 2022
Skechers Pokémon Collection Foamies
Today, Skechers has launched its Pokémon Foamies collection for men and women. The kids’ collection will launch in October.
Available online at skechers.com.sg, Lazada, Shopee and Skechers stores islandwide.
The collection features five Pokémon characters. Pikachu, Eevee, Jigglypuff, Charizard and Snorlax are prominently featured on Skechers GOwalk 5 Foamies. Purchase any two items from the Pokémon collection by Skechers at selected Skechers Concept Stores and get a free Pokémon Dry Bag that features a roll-top closure secured by a single buckle, an airtight seal and is made from waterproof material.
These slip-ons are crafted with a draining system that ensures quick drying. Foamies feature a lightweight, perforated EVA upper with a convertible heel strap, responsive ULTRA GO cushioning midsole and a contoured footbed with dual-density foam. This is enhanced by the high-rebound Comfort Pillar Technology that ensures sturdy support for the feet with every stride.
Scoot Pokémon Livery
Japan-based The Pokémon Company launches Pokémon Air Adventures in Singapore with Scoot for an exclusive Pikachu Jet in Singapore. The Pikachu Jet features a unique livery and themed inflight amenities and experiences including Pikachu-related merchandise.
This is the first ASEAN airline outside of Japan to launch a unique Pokémon-themed inflight experience. Passengers can look forward to inflight amenities bearing Pokémon designs, including original merchandise such as tote bags, lanyards, bucket hats and a collector’s edition of the aircraft model donned with the special livery.
These have been available for purchase during flight bookings through Scoot’s website and mobile app since 9 September, and onboard the inaugural flight. Additionally, a selection of specially curated Japanese inflight meals have been prepared to support the Pikachu Jet TR launch for the coming two quarters and are also available for pre-order.
Scoot has announced planned flight routes for the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner within Asia including Tokyo (Narita) and Seoul from 9 September 2022. The fixed flight routes for the Pokémon-themed flights will rotate every 2-3 months.
Sales of flights for the Pokémon Air Adventures were announced earlier this month which will commence from 9 September 2022. With initial routes set for Tokyo (Narita) and Seoul, customers can look forward to fare prices for one-way tickets starting from S$333 and S$231 respectively.
Pikachu Weekend in Singapore
A special Pikachu Weekend will be held in Singapore from 18 to 20 November 2022 as part of The Pokémon Company’s ongoing support for international travel and Singapore’s tourism economy. The event at Marina Bay will feature a night show alongside an exciting Pokémon Go event, “Pokémon GO Safari Zone, Singapore which will be held at Gardens by the Bay. Pikachu wearing a purple T-shirt (Flower), will be appearing in the wild from November 2022 for over one year to celebrate this event. Travellers to Singapore can try their luck and look for this exclusive Pikachu. For the first time in Pokémon GO, users will be able to encounter Shiny Purrloin.
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Repko was recused from early discussions of the sale because of Covance's ownership stake—it would have been a conflict of interest. After the deal was approved by a smaller group of BioClinica directors, however, he joined weekly discussions to map out how the transaction would unfold. "There was a shareholder lawsuit and everything," he says. (The suit was dismissed.) "Now I can say I have that experience behind me."
Phillips, meanwhile, oversaw the hiring of a CEO when Wick Communications' top executive left. While on the Apria board, Yazdi went through the due diligence process of an acquisition. Apria's board also explored different ways to finance a major transaction. "You bring back ideas for the CFO or CEO on some of the best practices out there," she says.
Your First Board Seat
There's no one right way to find your first board seat. Linda Goodspeed, former CIO of ServiceMaster, Nissan and Lennox International, got her first directorship through a recruiter. So did Kroger CIO Chris Hjelm. Steve Phillips, CIO of Avnet, and Mahvash Yazdi, former CIO of Edison International, got theirs through networking. Some CIO board appointments are strategic placements by the CIO's own company. Wal-Mart CIO Karenann Terrell, for example, was appointed to the board of Yihaodian, an online grocery store in China of which Wal-Mart is majority owner.
Although boards know they need more technology expertise, seats for CIOs are scarce, says Peter Gleason, CFO and managing director of the National Association for Corporate Directors. Dual forces of digital disruption and embarrassing security problems are forcing boards to look at candidates who know how to profit from data and keep IT safe.
But boards sometimes hesitate to fill a seat with a CIO. There's a view that many CIOs aren't board material, says John Repko, CIO of Tyco. He's looking for a board seat now, interested in a $2 billion to $3 billion services company. That would be bigger than his first board, but not too big.
One technique he uses to avoid being branded as "an IT guy" is to get his name out through public speaking—but carefully. "I never speak at conferences on IT," he says. Security, quality and talent management carry more cachet, he says.
While plenty of retired CEOs and CFOs fill board seats, retired CIOs don't have as long a shelf-life, Gleason says. They lose relevance because technology moves too quickly. Plus, some boards reason that if they need technology questions answered, they can hire a consultant to come in and advise them during a meeting or two, he says, rather than devote a precious full-time seat to a CIO.
Nonetheless, some CIOs do get director offers. If you find yourself debating whether to take a board position, CIOs who have been there have some advice.


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Nordgreen is a new Danish designer watch brand based in Copenhagen. They have recently launched their fashion watches in the UK after a successful Kickstarter project.
We have previously reviewed the HKED version of the Seagull 1963 but now our Editor has got his hands on the “period correct” version. Here’s the lowdown.
We did a hands-on review of the first DIRENZO watch earlier this year and we were sorry to send it back! What has the brand got in store for its second release this November?
Formex are about to launch a new model – the Formex Essence is a Chronometer grade Swiss watch with two patented features for less than $700.
A lot of the watches we feature on WRUK are for preorder on Kickstarter. But what is Kickstarter and is it safe to buy from there?
It’s not often we come across a design that’s truly unique, but we think the TACS Automatic Vintage Lens 2 might just be one of […]
The Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide GMT is currently taking Kickstarter by storm, having raised over £430,000 in preorders to date.
Every now and again we hear about a company that makes almost every part of their watches themselves – introducing the Indicator watch.
Six nations from four continents are due to compete aboard ultra-high-performance catamarans in the ANONIMO Speed Challenge.
AVI-8 have a new limited edition to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the RAF. How does the 1960s-themed AVI-8 Flyboy Centenary edition cope over a week of wear?


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Database search is coming soon. In the meantime, use the following categories to explore the database resources:
Reuse and renovation
Re-allocating space on streets to accommodate new uses – particularly for walking, biking, and being – is not new. COVID-era needs have accelerated the process that many communities use to make such street transitions, however. Many communities quickly understood that the street is actually a public place and a public good that serves broader public needs more urgent than the free flow or the storage of private vehicles. This book captures some of these quick changes to city streets in response to societal needs during COVID, with two open questions: 1) what changes will endure post-COVID?; and 2) will communities be more open to street reconfigurations, including quick and inexpensive trials, going forward?
In Seattle, a suburban shopping center’s parking lot is being transformed into a new walkable neighborhood.
The city of Tainan, Taiwan has plans to demolish an abandoned mall and transform it into a public park.
As parking demand declines, some developers and designers are thinking about the long term uses of parking garages and designing them to be able to adapt to changing future land use needs.
An increasing number of architects, developers, and engineers are designing new parking garages that can be converted into other uses in the future if needed.
Gas stations can be tricky sites to redevelop because they are often contaminated. However, developers around New York have recognized the potential in their often desirable locations and converted them into a variety of uses such as shops, offices, housing and places for generating renewable energy.
The owners of a parking garage in downtown Boston have proposed constructing a 20-story tower on top of the existing parking structure.
San Francisco’s emerging trend of transforming parking spots into “parklets” has sparked residents, businesses and nonprofits from around the city to come up with creative ways to turn parking into public space.
San Francisco’s “parklet” trend of transforming parking spots into small public spaces has mixed reviews among residents. Some people think that they are provide spaces for neighborhoods to come together, while some believe they exacerbate gentrification.
Many developers are trying to keep their malls relevant as traditional big-box retailers announce store closures. This articles highlights five examples of malls around the U.S. that have plans to reinvent themselves as mixed use and experiential destinations.
Many traditional malls have come up with creative ways to transform themselves to stay relevant in the 21st century and maintain sources of revenue as store closures rise. The typical malls with large atriums, department stores, food courts, and parking lots are finding new uses for these spaces including fitness centers, apartments, event spaces, markets, and mini theme parks.
The invention of the internet introduced a new typology to the marketplace, the online retailer. Omnichannel retail strategies - where a retailer operates through both physical locations and online sales - have become a necessity in today’s market.
On May 10, 2017, Mayor William Peduto charged 120 National Summit on Design & Urban Mobility delegates with the following challenge: “we must develop and carry-out a new social compact for mobility in cities. Now is the time to address mobility to ensure that we serve and support core community values of equity, inclusiveness, sustainability, and collective advancement. A social compact with shared and autonomous mobility providers ensures that these services do good for communities while these businesses do well in cities.
With its 1950s aesthetic intact, Knightley’s Garage is more than a kitschy throwback to the past. Wichita’s repurposed parking facility may actually be an indication of things to come. As personal auto ownership declines in urban downtowns, car-related urban infrastructure is increasingly underused. Some garages, like Knightley’s, are ripe for adaptive reuse. Others are being constructed from scratch in ways that will allow them to be repurposed down the road.
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Doughnut Time forced to close stores across the country, leaves employees without weeks of pay
FORMER employees have hit out at dessert chain Doughnut Time, saying they’ve been left thousands of dollars out of pocket and without superannuation payments.
THE sugar high that fuelled the rise of dessert empire Doughnut Time has come crashing back down to earth.
The chain that flogged calorie-ridden creations in the shape of oversized doughnuts has started closing half of their Australian stores, after entrepreneur and owner Damian Griffiths was forced to sell up shop.
According to Broadsheet, Mr Griffiths finalised the sale of Doughnut Time to the company’s former CEO and managing director Dan Strachotta this month.
But the shift in ownership has left dozens of employees outraged, without a job and owed thousands of dollars in wages and superannuation contributions.
Former employee Chris Boucher, who was the manager of the Manly Doughnut Time store since October 2017, said he was personally owed $5000 in wages.
“Other employees are owed around $1500- $5000 in unpaid work, and we haven’t been paid superannuation either,” the 31-year-old told news.com.au.
Mr Boucher, who claims he was locked out of the Manly store just three weeks after signing a full-time contract with Doughnut Time, said there’d been a rental dispute between former CEO Mr Griffiths and the landlord, and he was forced to collect shifts in other Sydney stores.
“I was only offered two shifts a week, and I was employed to work 38 hours,” he said.
“When we were locked out of the Manly store, my Mac laptop was left inside. The landlord wouldn’t release items inside until rental fees were paid.
“Damien Griffiths said he would pay me for the laptop, but I am still waiting for that.”
At it’s peak — Doughnut Time employed around 500 staff across 30 stores in Australia and the United Kingdom.
Mr Boucher said wage payments started to slow down in November, with weekly deposits getting “later and later” towards the close of 2017.
“We carried on working, even though we weren’t getting paid because we had in writing that we would be paid up to date [eventually],” Mr Boucher said.
Laleh Bagheri, who started working for Doughnut Time in June at both the Bondi and Surry Hills store, said she was never paid superannuation and hadn’t received wages in weeks.
Mr Griffiths told Broadsheet that he expanded the company too quickly, and that he accepts the “blame” for current failings.
“I guess I had too many big ideas and dreams when I started the development of Limes [Hotel], [Alfred & Constance] and then expanded Doughnut Time around Australia,” he said.
While the deal will save some stores across the country, many have been forced to close their doors.
“I tried to resolve things but I have just run out of money,” Mr Griffiths said in an email to The Courier-Mail. “I can’t keep fighting.”
The deal with Mr Strachotta means that almost half of the stores in Australia will be closed down, with Sydney keeping just one doughnut shop in Newtown. Brisbane will have its South Bank and Clayfield stores kept open, as well as the Mermaid Beach’s store on the Gold Coast. Melbourne will keep its Degraves Street, Fitzroy and Chapel Street shopfronts.
In February, as many as 35 workers across the company’s 15 Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Gold Coast stores claimed they were owed more than $70,000 in pay.
At the time, staff claimed they are owed thousands of dollars for unpaid shifts, with some staff missing up to three weeks’ pay.
At the time of the staff dispute, Mr Griffiths faced bankruptcy for reportedly owing relatives money.
In a statement to news.com.au, a spokesman for the Fair Work Ombudsman said a complaint had been received from both NSW and Queensland.
“I can confirm that the FWO is currently conducting inquiries in relation to Doughnut Time,” the spokesman wrote.
News.com.au has attempted to contact the new CEO, Dan Strachotta for comment.


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Speaking to Print21 Aldo Burcheri said, “Courtney is committed to staying at the head of the market. We need to invest to be able to have the solutions to offer our customers more. The new HP Indigo and Latex printers will enable us to grow further into markets such as variable data print, direct mail and point of sale.
“We are a business that is always looking to innovate and move forward. We were the first in the country to install the B2 HP Indigo. The Indigo 12000 we have ordered has new capabilities, such as invisible ink, that will enable us to offer more to our customers, and give them more value.”
(Photo: Aldo Burcheri, Wayne McIntyre Celmac, Mike Boyle HP)


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African entrepreneur Bankole Emmanuel is one of the 12 Kwese Inc. Go Gettaz finalists aiming to to capture Mr Strive Masiyiwa’s interest. And his idea is to make 25,000 African youths a millionaire by 2023.
Africa is an agricultural dependent region but not so many have made fortune from the sector. As a result, Bankole Emmanuel has set out to use Agribusiness and technology to solving hunger, youth unemployment and poverty menace in Africa.
In an interview with Business Insider Sub-Saharan Africa, Bankole explains what led to the idea of empowering Africa through agriculture.
“One of the things that make me have sleepless nights is the joblessness crisis in Africa. And I have tried to look at the sector that is big enough that can create employment for millions of youths that are unemployed. I feel like the missed economy in Africa is Agriculture,” Bankole said.
“I studied Agriculture from my First Degree to PhD now and I feel Agriculture is the solution. But what can we do to make Agriculture so enticing to our youth? I integrate technology into this sector so that many people can come in to be industrial players.”
“We also want to help as many as 25,000 youths become millionaires in Africa through Agribusiness by 2023. This is my passion as an entrepreneur. The value chain is so large… so we want to help as many as possible in the continent to become financially independent by leveraging on the Agriculture and Technology”
Meet the man aiming to make 25,000 youths millionaires in Africa through farming (kwese.com)
Bankole Emmanuel is the founder of Agromarketplace and a PhD student of Agricultural Extension and Communication Technology. Despite the huge challenges in the sector, Bankole believes the idea is noble.
“It is a business which is going to scale very quickly, already we are present in four cities in Nigeria, in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Warri. And a lot of people are even calling us from outside the continent from as far as the United Kingdom because Nigeria is a country that has a lot of agricultural products ranging from sesame seeds to Soya beans.
“You know all these none perishable agricultural products but we have a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables which are perishing on the farms.”
On how his company will utilize the prize if Agromarketplace is declared the winner, Bankole hinted that the money will be used to expand the company’s operation to 8 more states in Nigeria.
“By God’s grace, we trust and hope we get the $100,000 cash so that we can quickly scale from four cities to twelve additional cities by December 2018. We also want to get some cooling vans and you know there are some cooling vans today that you can maintain the freshness and the quality of the vegetables and fruits for two months.”
“It would be as if you just harvested it from the farm so we want to get these two trucks.”


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A recent study found that contrary to the popular belief, immigrants tend to be more entrepreneurial than native-born Americans and they tend.
The study was conducted by Ben Jones of Northwestern University, Pierre Azoulay of MIT, Daniel Kim of University of Pennsylvania, and Javier Miranda of the U.S. Census Bureau.
Among other data, the authors analyzed 200,000 firms from the U.S. Census Survey of Business Owners and showed that 7.25% of immigrants were entrepreneurs while that figure is only about 4% for US-born individuals.
“the rate of founding businesses is 80 percent higher among the non-U.S.-born than among the U.S.-born.” – Ben Jones
The same general trend is seen among fortune 500 firms. For example, the authors –– found that out of the 449 firms tracked from 2017 Fortune 500 companies, 96 of them (about 21%) had at least one immigrant founder, which is far higher than immigrant’s share in the labor market.
“Ironically, the result is exactly the opposite of the usual narrative. It seems like immigrants actually improve the economic outcomes for native-born workers.”— Ben Jones


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UK hotels and restaurants are feeling the benefits of record employment and consumers’ willingness to spend rather than save.
New figures from the statistics office showed that spending by households in this category is at the highest in five years, at £45.10 pounds per week. The data include restaurants and pubs, as well as hotel stays and take-outs. Separate numbers showed that the average weekly spend on cinema and theatre tickets, television subscriptions and newspapers held steady.
The Office for National Statistics cited "high levels of employment and rising disposable income" in its analysis. The most recent labor-market data showed the UK employment rate is at a record high, while unemployment - at 4.8 percent - is at the lowest in more than a decade.
While the amount spent on dining out and staying at hotels per week in 2015-2016 is the highest since 2010, it’s still below the previous peak of £52.20 in 2002-2003.
Total average weekly spending by households was little year-on-year at £529, though it’s also well down on its pre-crisis levels of £554 in 2004-2005.
Average spending on alcohol and tobacco continued its long-term downward trend and fell below £12 for the first time, the statistics office said. Adjusted for inflation, spending is down from almost £20 in 2001-2002.
News by Bloomberg, edited by Hospitality Ireland


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The Twitter client has lost many features, plus their Apple Watch app is gone.
Tapbots, the developers of Tweetbot for iOS and MacOS (and watchOS) have released a new update to the app, removing many useful features because of a Twitter API change. Because of these changes, the Apple Watch app has been completely removed.
The release notes of the update state the following:
On August 16th Twitter will disable parts of their public interface that we use in Tweetbot. Because Twitter has chosen not to provide alternatives to these interfaces we have been forced to disable or degrade certain features. We’re sorry about this, but unfortunately this is totally out of our control. Timeline streaming on WiFi is now disabled. Your timelines will now refresh automatically every 1-2 minutes instead. Push notifications for Mentions and Direct Messages will now be delayed by a few minutes. Push notifications for Likes, Retweets, Follows and Quotes have been disabled. We’ll be investigating bring some of these back in the future. Activity and Stats tabs have been removed. Watch app, which depended heavily on Activity data, has been removed.
They claim that the watchOS app had to be removed because it requires Activity data. This comes after many other massive developers removed their apps for watchOS, a big one being Instagram.
Features like push notifications, streaming and other features have been removed from the iOS app, making it less useful than it once was. We hope to see Twitter making some changes that allow the developer to bring back removed features.


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The pandemic forced BCD Travel to manage nearly half a billion dollars worth of unused, nonrefundable tickets during the year ending last month. During the first half of last year, Travel and Transport saw a 300 percent increase in the number of unused tickets stored in its database. American, Delta, Southwest and United in financial filings this month and last disclosed a combined liability of more than $10 billion in unused tickets as of December 2020.
The numbers are staggering, and the breakage is inevitable. Airlines have formulae for estimating the dollar value of tickets that they . . .


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¡Por Vida!, the popular healthy meal recognition program, has revamped its website, porvidasa.com, to offer a streamlined experience for users in search of healthy restaurant meals.
The new ¡Por Vida! website offers a fresh look in line with the program’s branding. Visitors are able to find out what it takes for a restaurant to be ¡Por Vida! certified in the “qualifications” tab.
The website offers a dedicated page to participating restaurants and allows visitors to browse ¡Por Vida! menu items for each restaurant and learn about the nutritional criteria required to receive the ¡Por Vida! seal of approval.
An interactive map easily guides visitors to the nearest participating ¡Por Vida! restaurant location. Users can check out ¡Por Vida! social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, via the website to stay connected or visit the “news” section to find out about the latest happenings in healthy dining in San Antonio and surrounding areas.
The “Read more about the coalition” link provides visitors a glance at the Healthy Restaurant Coalition that created the program and lists other partners offering ¡Por Vida! meals to their patrons, including Morningside Ministries, Catalyst Catering, among others. The website was generously provided by KGBTexas.
The ¡Por Vida! Campaign was launched in 2009 by The Healthy Restaurants Coalition, a partnership between the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, the San Antonio Restaurant Association and the San Antonio Dietetics Association to promote healthier food choices in restaurants and spread good nutrition within the community.
The majority of Por Vida’s 14 partners include traditional restaurants like Jim’s, Luby’s, and McDonald’s. UTSA and Trinity University join Security Service Federal Credit Union’s corporate headquarter employee café, Lifecare Hospital’s patient dining facility, and Morningside Ministries Senior Living Community resident dining facility as a new unconventional member of the healthy recognition program.


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One year ago, MTN Uganda launched MoKash, a service that allows customers to get micro-loans and save using their phones. The banking is actually done by Commercial Bank of Africa (Uganda) but through MTN’s mobile money platform. It is very fast and convenient, as it requires no forms or documents.
MTN Uganda has 9 million mobile money customers, 4.6 million of which are active according to its half-year results; of these, 2.5 million signed up for MoKash. The company says 1.2 million of enrolled users are actively using it, and collectively borrowed Shs30bn in the first year. That translates into Shs25,000 per active user.
MoKash’s loans start from Shs3,000 to a maximum of Shs1 million. They are unsecured, but before an MTN customer qualifies for the service they need to have used mobile money regularly for at least six months. To increase their loan limit, they need to save on the platform and actively use it.
The loans are given for a month, irrespective of the amount, and attract a monthly interest of 9% – or “loan facilitation fee” in the parlance of the providers. Interest on savings depends on the amount, varies between 2% and 5%, and is paid quarterly.
In its most recent financials, for the first half of this year, MTN Uganda said digital services like MoKash and mobile money contributed 25.34% – or Shs171.85bn – to revenue, which was Shs678.2bn.
The telecom is Uganda’s largest company by revenue. It has a self-reported market share of 54.7% and 11.2 million subscribers as of 31 July.
In March, Airtel Uganda, the second largest telecom, introduced Wewole, a service similar to MoKash. Wewole “provides a convenient way for Airtel Money customers and agents to access loan facilities and can be utilized by any Airtel Customer or Agent that is fully registered on the Airtel Money platform.”


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Photo: Duc Anh
Forum the most important tourism event in the ASEAN region.
Vietnam will hold the ASEAN Tourism Forum (AFT) 2019, with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism assigned to make preparations.
The AFT is the largest and most important tourism gathering among ASEAN countries. A wide range of important events will be held within the framework of the forum, such as a meeting of ASEAN tourism ministers, a meeting of ASEAN tourism ministers and China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and India, a meeting of ASEAN tourism departments, and Travel Exchange (an annual ASEAN leisure travel trade event), among others.
As host country Vietnam has the opportunity to promote and introduce its tourism sector to seek cooperative partners.
A Tourism Ministerial Round Table will be organized to discuss the Pakse Declaration, which expresses a desire within ASEAN to integrate its ecotourism destinations. The theme of AFT 2016 is “Turning Vision into Reality for a Dynamic ASEAN Community”.
‘’Vietnam is one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in Southeast Asia, driven by the entrance of international hoteliers, an improved visa policy, and investment into key infrastructure,” the Asian Cities Report Vietnam Hospitality, produced by real estate consultants Savills Vietnam in first half of this year, stated.
Vietnam has been listed by the World Tourism Organization in the Top 5 ASEAN countries in terms of visitor numbers, with approximately 8 million arrivals in 2015 and a compound annual growth rate of 9 per cent over the last five years, the report noted.
First half figures from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) auger well for Vietnam reaching its target of welcoming 8.5 million international tourists and catering to 60 million domestic tourists this year, VNAT believes. The target of VND370 trillion ($16.56 million) in revenue is also well within reach.
Tourist arrivals from Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia all grew in the double digits. Arrivals from Northeast Asia have also seen high growth. Those from Hong Kong increased 128.3 per cent, China 47.9 per cent, South Korea 34 per cent, Taiwan 15.8 per cent, and Japan 12.4 per cent.
Arrivals from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, which have visa exemptions, all saw impressive growth in the first half. Growth in German, Italian, UK, Spanish, and French arrivals was 117.1 per cent, 30.1 per cent, 24.6 per cent, 22.7 per cent and 13.8 per cent, respectively.
The Association of Tour Operators of Russia said that in the first quarter Russian tourist arrivals in Vietnam were the highest in Europe. Arrivals from Russia totaled 108,750, followed by the UK with 68,600 and France 67,500. Russian tourists heading to Vietnam have grown strongly since Russia closed its tourism representative offices in Turkey and Egypt. In 2015 arrivals from Russia were 130,000.


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SquareTrade®, a highly rated protection plan trusted by millions of customers, is expanding and opening its second U.S. location in Orlando. The office already has 120 full-time employees and will reach a total of 180 employees by the end of the year. SquareTrade has also made a $546,000 capital investment to the region.
Since 1999, SquareTrade has protected mobile devices, laptops, tablets and other consumer electronics and applications from drops, spills and the mishaps of its customers’ everyday lives. Employees in the Orlando office represent SquareTrade’s Customer Experience team, which is devoted to delivering top-notch customer service.
“After an extensive six-month search, we chose Orlando for our next office location because of the city’s growing tech community, its business-friendly environment and the quality of the workforce,” said Ahmed Khaishgi, CEO of SquareTrade. “As a Silicon Valley company, it was important for us to find a location that had a similar caliber of tech talent. We’re committed to growing our presence in Orlando over the next several years.”
The expansion was made possible through partnerships between Enterprise Florida, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Orange County, the Orlando Economic Development Commission, CareerSource Florida and Valencia College.
“Nurturing our customer-services sector is important for long-term economic diversification and sustained job creation,” said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. “We are thrilled that SquareTrade has chosen to expand and locate their operations in Orange County. We continue to focus on bringing high-wage, high-value jobs to our community in order to diversify our economy, and this is another great example.”
“Business services firms come to our region for our deep, rich and diverse talent pool and low cost business environment and we’re very happy to welcome SquareTrade to Orlando,” said Orlando EDC Executive Vice President Holly Wiedman.
CareerSource Florida offers performance-based grants for employee training to new or expanding businesses through the FloridaFlex program, formerly known as Quick Response Training.
“CareerSource Florida welcomes SquareTrade to Florida, where our talented workforce and ideal business climate promote growth and prosperity,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Chris Hart IV. “We are pleased to help support SquareTrade’s expansion through training opportunities that will boost employees’ skills and enhance the company’s competitiveness.”


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Finance ministers from more than 50 countries recently signed the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement, with another 30 countries pledging to sign the agreement by 2018.
Swedish bitcoin exchange BTCX, has been requested by the local Tax Authority to disclose transaction history of the company's 20,000 customers. The exchange is taking the Swedish Tax Authority to court, arguing that by doing so, all its clients' identities would be disclosed.
Today, the National Bank of Belarus announced that it will implement an immediate 30% tax on purchases of foreign currency for individuals and legal entities.
The EU Court of Justice has ruled that Bitcoin exchange is exempt from VAT in a landmark ruling.
Businesses around the world are discovering that it pays to develop and employ a Bitcoin strategy.
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A University of Florida law professor, Omri Marian says that while cryptocurrencies are already considered taxable assets (under US tax law), the inability of the gov. to monitor blockchain transactions could mean a lot more people opting out of the tax system.
Puerto Rico, a commonwealth estimated to have roughly US$72 billion in debts, announced this week that the accumulated debt simply cannot be paid.
CRA has announced it views Bitcoin and digital currency as “specified foreign property” for tax purposes.
Coin Loft finds a workaround to an Australian GST law that had previously meant a tax was applied to the total value of bitcoin exchanges in the country.
A new bill proposed in New Hampshire could obligate the state treasury to draw up plans to accept Bitcoin as payment for taxes.
Interview with LibraTax CEO, Jake Benson
The European Commission is considering imposing value added tax (VAT) on reward-based crowdfunding, which could force businesses to charge on the value of any items sent to donors.
Attorney for the Southern District of New York Attorney has asked the judge the Ulbricht case to issue a life sentence; Bitfury has developed a light bulb that mines bitcoin and more news
A campaign has been launched to make Jersey a world leader in digital currencies.
Weekend Roundup by CoinTelegraph!
Tax commissioner Chris Jordan said that while Bitcoin cannot currently be considered money this might change in the future with wider acceptance and use.
Avalara, a company that offers cloud-based tax-compliance software, has just announced it has added Bitcoin to the roster of currencies its platform can handle, the company announced on its blog.
The Australia’s Tax Office reports that it has delayed the much anticipated ruling on digital currencies until further notice.
In early April the National Australia Bank (NAB) decided to cut ties with the bitcoin community and close any accounts that primarily dealt with the digital currency on May 2. The NAB believes dealing with digital currencies is too risky. Less than one week later, Australia’s first bitcoin ATM went live in Sydney, the ...
In an interview this week with Bloomberg, Olof Wallin from the Swedish taxation agency said he believes his country will classify Bitcoin as an asset, not a currency.
Japan is set to drop sales tax on buying digital currencies, pawing the way for more exchange traders joining the Bitcoin’s bandwagon.
Hundreds of thousands of Greeks have lost their hard-earned savings to government seizure this year, exponentially more than in previous years. Time to get some Bitcoin!
Agenzia delle Entrate, the most important Italian tax authority, wants to treat Bitcoin as a currency and tax it.
The election of the Democratic Party’s candidate Hillary Clinton could potentially pressurise the US federal government’s Internal Revenue Service to audit journalists and freeze their assets.
Would Bitcoin enhance taxing and provide more effective ways for governments to make citizens accountable, or would it create a hole for users of the currency to evade tax?
Bitcoin, with its borderless nature has the ability to obsolete tax havens.
Reserve Bank of India explores the Blockchain as a solution to cash use and deep-rooted tax avoidance.
For a month starting May 3, The Treasury of the Australian government will be accepting submissions from interested parties to comment on a newly-released discussion paper entitled ‘GST treatment of digital currency’ as part of the 2016-17 Budget.
Pop legend Prince left behind $300 million, and half of that will go to the government. He could have avoided losing much of his financial legacy by using Bitcoin instead.
The UK Government explores Blockchain as a possible way to increase efficiency. Bitcoin’s distributed ledger may help distribute taxpayers’ money as well as grants and student loans.
The advent of Bitcoin and blockchain technology has made government taxation obsolete, given how difficult cryptocurrency can be to identify and trace.
The Australian Government announced that the current double tax law on digital currencies including Bitcoin is soon to be reformed.
Legislative revisions see Bitcoin recognised as a legal and legitimate form of payment in Japan.
New Hampshire State Treasury can’t accept Bitcoin for taxes because they are not familiar with the currency.
In the meantime, Christian Holte, the above-quoted director general of taxation, said the Norwegian government would coordinate certain legal implications of Bitcoin with other governments.
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Heath Ceramics Expanding to Larger SF DigsAuthor:Stephanie Orma
Heath Ceramics is crafting a brand spankin’ new project – but this one is sans pottery or glaze. The legendary Sausalito-based tableware and tile ceramicists just revealed exciting plans to open a 4,000-square-foot retail space and 16,000-square-foot manufacturing warehouse in SF’s Mission neighborhood by early 2012.
Although it doesn’t look like much now (above), husband-and-wife owners Robin Petravic and Catherine Bailey will spend the rest of the year sprucing up and swanking out the large, new digs on Florida and 18th Street. The duo explained, “we’ll be able to realize many of our ideas that we were never able to in our tight quarters.” And the historic Sausalito building–which Heath has been creating from since 1959–will remain unchanged and continue to produce their awesomely handcrafted dinnerware. Can’t wait!
Above: Heath Ceramics announcing their expansion with San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee
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With an on-going drought plaguing the great state of California, designers and builders are forced to discover design solutions that help…
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Nathan Turner brings cozy California cheer to his Alisal Ranch Holiday Workshop Designer Nathan Turner arranging flowers for the table. Photos…
- November 23, 2022
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- November 22, 2022


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CVS to expand grocery aisles in 3,000 stores in 2010
Woonsocket, R.I. CVS Caremark has said it will double the size of its food sections in 3,000 of its 7,000 stores by year’s end in order to share a bigger piece of the nation’s trillion-dollar food budget.
According to a report Tuesday by the Patriot Ledger, so far at least a dozen CVS stores have been converted in the Boston area.
Retail consultants say it’s yet another example of “channel blurring” — the growing multiplicity of product categories being sold in stores.
B&N, Pandigital bring color to e-book experience
DUBLIN , Calif. (May25) Barnes & Noble has partnered with Barnes & Noble to offer the Pandigital Novel, a 7-inch e-reader with integrated Barnes & Noble e-bookstore, full color touch-screen display, Wi-Fi connectivity, and multimedia capabilities, Pandigital announced.
Through the partnership, Pandigital Novel cutsomers will have access to Barnes & Noble’s full e-bookstore catalog and be able to share content with others using Barnes & Noble’s LendMe technology.
"First and foremost, the Pandigital Novel e-reader was designed to deliver a world-class e-reading experience," said Dean Finnegan, CEO and founder of Pandigital. "By focusing on delivering superior content from Barnes & Noble, an easy-to-use design and an excellent customer experience, Pandigital is delivering a value proposition not currently available in the eReader category. With its many additional features, Pandigital Novel customers will be able to read what they want and do more of what they want on the go with an affordable product that is simple and fun to use."
Bach to retire from Microsoft
Microsoft announced that Robbie Bach, president of the entertainment and devices division, will retire from the company this fall.
The company announced that SVP Don Mattrick will continue to lead the interactive entertainment business and SVP Andy Lees will continue to lead the mobile communications business. Each will report directly to CEO Steve Ballmer effective July 1.
"For the past 22 years, Robbie has personified creativity, innovation and drive. With this spirit, he has led a division passionately devoted to making Microsoft successful in interactive entertainment and mobility," Ballmer said. "Robbie’s an amazing business person and close personal friend, which makes his departure a point of sadness for me. However, given the strong leadership team he has built, the business performance of E&D this year and the launches of Windows Phone 7 and ‘Project Natal’ this fall, we are set up well for success as we continue to drive our mobile and entertainment businesses forward."


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January 11, 2021
CBSA Investigating Upholstered Domestic Seating From China And Vietnam
The Canada Border Services Agency is launching investigations to determine whether certain upholstered domestic seating from China and Vietnam is being sold at unfair prices in Canada.
The investigations are the result of a complaint filed by Palliser Furniture Ltd. (Winnipeg, MB) and supported by Elran Furniture Ltd. (Pointe-Clair, QC), Jaymar Furniture Corp. (Terrebonne, QC), EQ3 Ltd. (Winnipeg, MB) and Fornirama Inc. (Montréal, QC).
The complainant alleges that as a result of an increase of the volume of the dumped and subsidized imports from these countries, it has suffered material injury in the form of lost market share, lost sales, price undercutting, price depression, declining financial performance and reduced capacity utilization.
The CBSA and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal each play a role in the investigations. The CITT will begin a preliminary inquiry to determine whether the imports are harming the Canadian producers and will issue a decision by February 19, 2021. Concurrently, the CBSA will investigate whether the imports are being sold in Canada at unfair and/or subsidized prices, and will make preliminary decisions by March 22, 2021.
Currently, there are 125 special import measures in force, covering a wide variety of industrial and consumer products, from steel products to refined sugar. These measures have directly helped to protect the Canadian economy and jobs.


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ESCANABA - An early spring this year has meant big business for local bicycle and motorcycle shops.
"We have been in business for 25 years and this might have been our busiest March ever," said Jon Harris, who works at Mr. Bike, Ski and Fitness in Escanaba. "Once the calendar turned (to March), there was a mad rush for bicycles for about two weeks straight."
Harris adds putting the skis away and getting bicycles ready to sell has been a daunting task this year.
Mike Williams, owner of Brampton Bike and Ski in Gladstone, shows off a Recumbent bicycle, made by Sun Corp. Williams said the bike is “like riding a recliner.” Williams is one of many businessmen enjoying increased sales in bicycles and motorized vehicles because of the early spring weather this year. (Daily Press photo by Todd Guerne)
"There are tons of bikes being sold, our numbers are way up," he said. "Usually in March it's the other way around, with ski sales going strong. It's been great."
Before heading out on the trails, Harris says it's a good idea to check the air pressure in the tires.
"You should fill the tire to the proper pressure, usually 65 pounds for mountain bikes, which are what most people ride," said Harris.
Mike Williams has owned Brampton Bike and Ski in Gladstone since 1997 and is also enjoying increased business for bicycles this year.
"The early spring definitely kicked things off well in terms of increased business and (bicycle) sales," said Williams. "Typically in February, you're still doing well with ski season, but then March came around and the snow was wiped out fast this year."
Williams adds he is selling a lot of bicycles right now, and the weather has added another benefit for bike riders.
"The mountain bike trails have opened early," he said. "Usually it takes some time for them to dry out, but without having a lot of snowfall this year, the trails are already up and running."
Williams is a big advocate of wearing a helmet and says bad things can happen fast without one.
"You don't want to preach to people about wearing them, but nowadays helmets are light, stylish and reasonably priced," said Williams. "You can get a nice one for around $30." He also says motorists should watch out for people on bicycles. "A lot of times, they're kids not paying attention to what's going on."
Eric Malmsten, service manager for Cycle City Inc. in Escanaba, says his shop has been very busy.
"We've been keeping up with motorcycles coming in, but we're certainly not standing around," said Malmsten. "The day goes by extremely fast."
According to Malmsten, riders should check tires for tread, and make sure the brakes work properly. "Safety is pretty much the top priority with any type of sport machine."
Donna Russotto, owner of Gladstone Power Sports, has seen business increase since the onset of warmer weather.
"People are excited about getting their bikes and mopeds out to ride," said Russotto. "They've been in for oil changes, new batteries, new helmets and jackets too."
Russotto also says making sure the bike is in good working order should be a top priority.
"A little bit of maintenance goes a long way," she said.


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Wal-Mart Unveils Styrofoam Recycling Plan
Wal-Mart Canada has launched a recycling program that sees used Styrofoam packaging from eight Wal-Mart locations going to Grace Canada for reuse in the production of commercial insulation.
“As we work with our merchandise suppliers long-term to eliminate the polystyrene used in products and packaging, we’re also looking at interim solutions to divert this waste from landfill,” said John Lawrence, director of corporate social responsibility for Wal-Mart Canada. “We’ve found an answer that is a triple win, for Wal-Mart Canada, Grace Canada and most importantly, the environment.”
To-date, Grace Canada and its parent company W. R. Grace & Co. have recycled over 77 million pounds of foam polystyrene.
Wal-Mart Canada says it has adopted numerous waste diversion initiatives across its operations in order to minimize its environmental footprint. In-store, multi-stream waste diversion programs currently recycle paper fibres, beverage containers, plastic bags and film. In 2007, Wal-Mart Canada diverted over 1 million kilograms of waste from landfill and has seen an over 20 percent increase in waste diversion already over last year.
In August, Wal-Mart Canada announced that its new high-efficiency stores would cut energy use by more than 30 percent.
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- SEIA Releases Updated Version of ‘Guide to Federal Tax Incentives’
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Cashew exporters hit by IGST refund delay
Exporters took their request to Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu, who attended Kaju India, the global cashew meet that concluded at Goa this week.
The shortage in working capital comes at a time when exporters are seeing a jump in demand for cashew kernel. India meets over half of its raw cashew requirement for processing and export from overseas.
Since July, exporters have been paying 5% IGST in addition to the 5% duty charged on raw cashew arriving from countries like Ivory Coast and Ghana, which account for the bulk of shipments to India, but have not received IGST refund even after completing exports.
“We have to pay around Rs 40 lakh as IGST for taking 500 tonnes of imported raw cashew for export. Those who have completed export haven’t got the refund, which has affected our operations,’’ said P Somarajan, proprietor of Kailas Cashew Exports.
Exporters took their request to Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu, who attended Kaju India, the global cashew meet that concluded at Goa this week. “He has promised us that he will consider it along with our demand for raising the export incentive for cashew from 3% to 5%,” said P Sundaran, chairman of Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI).
Cashew exports from India are seeing a rise after a decline in the last couple of years. The export value too is rising with cashew kernels fetching good prices.
As per CEPCI data, cashew exports in the April-July period increased by 25% from a year ago to 31,172 tonnes. In value terms it increased by 50% to Rs 2,141 crore. “The export prices are averaging at $5.10 per pound, which is almost break-even given the average raw cashew price of $2000 per tonne,’’ said K Prakash Rao, managing partner of Kalbavi Cashews.
Good times are in store for domestic sellers too. Pre-Diwali sales have lifted the domestic price of the commodity, which had turned sluggish after the government’s demonetisation drive. “From Rs 780 per kg, prices have risen to Rs 840 per kg. A further increase in possible in the coming days till Diwali,’’ Rao said.
India is currently the largest cashew consumer at 3 lakh tonnes.


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Google's Android platform was the only operating system to gain users from May through June, a sign that Android may soon dominate the smartphone market, according to ComScore.
Google released Chrome to reignite competitive development of browsers, and now it is playing catch-up on at least one front: hardware-assisted acceleration.
It's lonely at the top, as the old saying goes, and that appears to be just as true for technologies as it is for people.
Tackling memory limitations imposed on Java applications, Terracotta on Tuesday will offer what it describes as a breakthrough in solving the "universal problem" of Java garbage collection.
VMware and Novell announced on Wednesday general availability of Suse Linux Enterprise Server for VMware, geared for use in virtualized and cloud environments.
Due to its dispute with Oracle, Google said it will not present at the JavaOne conference this year.
Rumors swirled once again this week regarding a possible takeover of Red Hat, this time by SAP, but a number of industry observers said Thursday that the prospect is unlikely at best.
As the industry call for cloud interoperability grows more fervent, open-source enterprise software company Red Hat has submitted its cloud platform, Deltacloud, to the DMTF (Distributed Management Task Force) as a potential standard for cloud intero...
There is still a way for Oracle to calm down people concerned about the fate of the Java programming language under the vendor's stewardship, according to James Gosling, known as the "father" of Java.
Two months after releasing version 2 of the enterprise edition of its open-source cloud software, Eucalyptus Systems has posted a new version of the software's base platform, the company announced on Wednesday.
The Vyatta open-source network operating system has been certified for IPv6, which is likely to become a key capability as the number of Internet addresses available under the current version of IP diminishes.
Everyone in the Linux world remembers Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer's famous comment that Linux is a "cancer" that threatened Microsoft's intellectual property.
Seemingly abandoned by its new owner, the open-source version of the Solaris operating system, called OpenSolaris, has now lost its governing board as well.
Google on Thursday announced it would require new Chrome extension developers to pay a one-time US$5 registration fee as a way to stymie malicious add-ons for its browser.
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Augmented reality and virtual reality headsets are on the cutting edge of technology these days, with companies like Microsoft, Google and Facebook all vying to get to market with headsets that can augment reality or transport users into a virtual world.
One of the problems with the current suite of headsets both on the market or coming soon is that they’re only crudely able to track where a user is looking. Microsoft’s Hololens, for example, can track users’ gazes by where their heads are looking, but it can’t tell where their eyes are focused within their field of view.
That’s where a new company called Eyefluence enters the picture. It makes eye tracking modules that can be as small as a pinkie nail and figure out where people are looking. In an interview, cofounder and CEO Jim Marggraff claimed that Eyefluence’s tracking technology understands the intent behind a person’s gaze, without requiring them to blink or stare at a particular location for a long period of time like the dominant eye tracking and interaction systems currently being sold and used today.
That technology can be used in a variety of different applications. Businesses could see it help with smart safety checklists for maintenance workers wearing augmented reality headgear. Rather than having to mark off a paper checklist, workers could complete inspection items by looking at things like the position of valves.
Meanwhile, virtual reality game developers could use the technology to create computer-controlled characters that relate to players based on where they’re looking. That way, characters who would ordinarily stare blankly (or where they thought the user’s eyes were) will be able to actually meet and track a player’s gaze.
Eyefluence isn’t building headsets itself. Instead, the company contracts with partners to build its eye interaction technology into their headsets. Marggraff declined to name which firms his company is working with, but said that Eyefluence’s list of customers include businesses among the top 100 of the Fortune 500 and smaller startups.
Ultimately, he thinks that Eyefluence’s tech is so key for creating a good experience in an augmented or virtual reality headset that companies will need to incorporate it.
“We believe that [head-mounted displays] are incomplete without eye interaction. And as well, we believe that the ease of use and the power is a tipping point item in the headsets,” Marggraff said. “If the headsets are too difficult to use, then consumers are going to push back and this is not going to fly. But we know that the impact that we have on the user experience is extraordinary.”
It remains to be seen whether Eyefluence’s tech can live up to Marggraff’s claims, but his track record would point to the company having better chances than most at following through. He’s a serial inventor who had a hand in products like the Leap Pad and Livescribe pen. Eyefluence has the backing of some big names, too, with Intel Capital, Jazz Ventures and others participating in the firm’s two rounds of funding.
The company expects to start showing off its technology early next year, so people will get a chance to examine how it works for themselves soon.


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On the heels of fierce criticism that he encourages children to drink beer, Spuds MacKenzie, Anheuser-Busch's "original party animal," has changed his image--at least for the holidays.
Last month, Sen. Strom Thurmond (R-S.C.) excoriated Anheuser-Busch for its Spuds MacKenzie promotional campaign, which, he insisted, lures young people to alcohol.
Two weeks later, the company aired a new Bud Light commercial starring the aloof English bull terrier with one black eye.
Spuds (who actually is played by a female dog) is customarily seen transforming lifeless gatherings into wild and raucous blowouts. But the new spot has him decked out in a tuxedo and tails, gracefully tinkling the keys on a baby grand while a refined cocktail-party crowd quietly marvels at his ability to remain in control.
Dressed in sequined formal frocks, the Spudettes --the three leggy young women who seductively whoop it up with Spuds in his regular commercials--then gather around the soberly elegant dog at the piano and pronounce: "Spuds knows it's cool to live by one simple rule: Know when to say when."
This unorthodox television spot is the latest installment in Anheuser Busch's 3-year-old campaign to encourage holiday partygoers to use moderation when consuming alcohol. It first aired during NFL football games on Thanksgiving Day and will continue running through New Year's Day.
In the past, the company has employed professional sports stars such as baseball veteran Steve Garvey, Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino and New York Knicks center Patrick Ewing to convey the moderation message. But this year, the corporation decided its own famous spokesdog would be perfect for its holiday campaign.
"We know that humor is one of the most effective communications tools at our disposal, and we feel that the use of Spuds in this context will draw maximum attention to this very important message," said John Roarty, executive vice president of Anheuser-Busch. "Secondly, a key element in the overall popularity and positioning of the character is a personality which is simultaneously the 'life of the party,' while remaining cool, sophisticated and always in control."
A spokesman for Bud Light insisted that the decision to use Spuds in its campaign for holiday sobriety was made months ago and had nothing to do with Thurmond's vehement criticism of Bud Light's "party animal" last month.
But outrage from several school and parent organizations across the country--which has led to the banning of Spuds T-shirts in some schools--had prompted Roarty to issue an official statement last September that defended the Bud Light campaign as targeting only adults. He said the company supported all actions designed to prohibit the use of Spuds merchandise by persons under the minimum drinking age.
Despite these disclaimers, Thurmond accused Anheuser-Busch of deliberately aiming its Spuds promotions at children. He objected especially to the company's promotion of Bud Light through assorted Spuds paraphernalia including a stuffed-toy version of Spuds that, he claimed, appeals most of all to young people.
"The stuffed animals, children's toys and T-shirts small enough to fit 12-year-olds," Thurmond said, "indicate the real purpose of the campaign."
Thurmond is aware of the new Spuds commercial, a spokeswoman in his office said, but one 30-second spot is not about to temper the senator's criticism.
"The point is they are not being responsible," the spokeswoman said. "The stuffed toys that say Bud Light are going to 8-year-olds. The senator's goal is to get them to show more responsibility in their ad campaign, and I don't think one commercial constitutes a major shift in their marketing attitude."
Anheuser-Busch said that Bud Light had authorized approximately 35 different manufacturers to produce Spuds promotional merchandise, including T-shirts, satin jackets, calendars, caps, beer mugs, key chains, posters, playing cards and stuffed toys. T-shirts featuring pictures of the Bud Light dog, Roarty said, are manufactured only in adult sizes, and none of the items are supposed to be sold in retail outlets for children.
He further claimed that it is mostly illegal, unsanctioned Spuds products that are falling into the hands of underage people. Roarty said the company is currently taking legal action to stop the production and distribution of the "pirate" Spuds merchandise.
Though William Stolberg, a spokesman for Bud Light, conceded that children do identify affectionately with the unusual-looking dog, he said there have been studies that indicate that beer advertising does not recruit new beer drinkers. The primary cause of underage drinking is peer pressure, he said, not a Spuds MacKenzie T-shirt.
"We do not intend nor do we believe that Spuds can influence underage people to drink," Stolberg said.


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A £1.6million revamp of Inverness’s historic Victorian Market will begin in January.
The work, to be carried out by Inverness firm WGC Scotland, is expected to be completed within one year and will be funded by Inverness Common Good Fund and Town Centre Funding.
A full refurbishment of the market hall and former fish hall, which turned 150 years old in May, will involve an internal strip-out, including all existing shop units and services with the installation of new units, public toilets and central seating area.
The Arcade and Queensgate and will remain open throughout the period of development.
Inverness City provost Helen Carmichael said: “The Victorian Market is more than a destination for shops and restaurants, but it is an important community hub.
“We all know that during its 150 years the market has had to survive war, fire, recession, threats from national retailers, online shopping and now coronavirus.
“With that in mind it is important that we help protect the market for another 150 years. The refurbishments will not only give the market a new lease of life, but it will also help ensure its continued profitability in the challenging retail environment we have today.
“I am sure the market will continue to be the social hub and visitor attraction it has always been, with a future-facing outlook.”
A business plan for the transformation of the Market Hall was approved by members of Highland Council’s City of Inverness area committee in November.
The overall aim of the plan is to create a viable future for the market, to increase footfall in the city centre and to the benefit of the 800 businesses located there.
John Ewart owner of Market Arcade business Milk Bar, is a member of the VM Stakeholder Group. He added: “We believe the development of Market Hall will be a key part of the post Covid-19 recovery for the city centre of Inverness.
“Those of us who will continue to trade throughout the development period look forward to welcoming and working alongside the businesses that will join us in a newly refurbished Market Hall.”


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New brewery's grand opening is Saturday
LANCASTER - The Double Edge Brewing Company at 158 W. Chestnut St. represents a return to the city's past, but with a modern twist.
"We are Lancaster's first downtown brewery in over 75 years," co-owner Zac Williams said. "We really want to be a Lancaster place for people to come and gather. Bring your friends, bring your family and just have a really good time. We really want to showcase the community."
Williams and co-owner Mark Jinkens will host a grand opening from noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday. Double Edge does not serve food, but there will be a food truck on site this weekend and most likely every weekend.
Also, customers can bring their own food or order from downtown restaurants and have it delivered. Double Edge does serve snacks like chips, pretzels, and salsa, however.
The business had a soft opening last weekend which Williams said went well.
"We had a lot of good feedback on the beer," he said. "People seemed to be enjoying the taproom. They were really good events. I was happy to see so many friendly faces."
Double Edge currently features six beers on tap with another one coming soon, and Williams said that number will eventually expand to 12.
The current beer selection includes a pale ale, golden ale, India Pale Ale, a smooth porter, an American wheat and an Irish stout. The stout was the first beer brewed at Double Edge, which Williams said that means it was the first beer brewed in downtown Lancaster in 75 years.
"We'd like to not brew the same thing over and over again," Williams said. "We'll probably have a few staples that stick around. But we want to make this a place where when people come back they see new stuff here and try new beers."
The front of the building holds a taproom that can serve up to 75 people. The rear portion is where the brewery is. Williams said the brewery has already produced about 10 batches of beer.
He said the taproom may eventually feature live entertainment. There is enough room in the building for a full band, Williams said.
Along with brewing and serving beer, Williams said he and Jinkens have a responsibility to showcase the community in a positive light. Williams is a city native and Jinkens is from Zanesville.
"I think we have a unique opportunity to possibly be the first point of contact for someone outside of Lancaster who visits Lancaster," he said. "We love this place and we're so happy to be downtown. This is e really good time to be down here."
Williams and Jinkens have been friends for over a decade and decided to open a brewery about three years ago. They have also been home brewers for some time and Williams said home brewing became an obsession for them.
"Eventually Mark asked me if I was serious about opening a brewery," he said. "When he said that, it kind of clicked and felt like the right thing to do for us, to start a brewery. Especially here in Lancaster."
Williams then went to the American Brewers Guild, a trade school in Vermont, to better learn the craft.
Double Edge is open from 4 to 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 3 to 11 p.m. on Friday, noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The brewery is closed Monday and Tuesday.
Williams said the hours are subject to change. Double Edge is also available for corporate events each day.


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Advertising on social networking sites is no longer expected to grow as fast as once predicted this year, says a new report issued by eMarketer, suggesting that enthusiasm is waning among buyers for the still fast growing category.
Spending will reach $1.4 billion in 2008, according to eMarketer’s latest report, down from the more bullish $1.6 billion estimate the researcher had previously issued in December. That new spending benchmark would represent growth of 55 percent — still enviable by any media standard — but down significantly from the 163 growth spurt exhibited last year.
eMarketer pins the dip in expectations on the uncertain economy and the lack of established advertising practices in the still emerging segment, which is driven primarily by user generated content. In recent months, MySpace has reorganized its advertising sales operations as the company fell short of parent company News Corp.’s stated revenue goals. Meanwhile, Facebook is still recovering from it’s bungled Beacon program, which attempted to take advantage of the viral nature of the site by publishing its users purchases and brand preferences to their respective friend groups.
Those two sites, according to eMarketer, take in the majority of ad dollars in the space (72 percent), and the researcher has downgraded growth predictions for both. MySpace, which accounts 53 percet of total US online social network ad spending “has had monetization difficulties,” said the report, leading to a forecast or $755 million in ad revenue for this year, down from eMarketer’s previous forecast of $850.
Meanwhile, eMarketer has also lowered its ad revenue expectations for Facebook from $305 million to $265 million. That move is in part due to the growth of the exploding number of widgets and applications built specifically for Facebook, which according to eMarketer provide marketers with alternative means of advertising on the popular site.
Still, eMarketer expects social networking advertising to grow at a healthy rate over the next several years. By 2012, spending is expected to reach $2.6 billion, down just slightly from eMarketer’s previous prediction of $2.7 billion for 2011.


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Netflix has new settings to save data when streaming over 4G
Netflix has introduced new quality settings in its mobile apps for both iOS and Android to allow subscribers to get more "bang for buck" when it comes to streaming video over 3G and 4G networks.
Dubbed "Cellular Data Usage" settings, the options allow users to further tweak how much data Netflix will use on the go. The service says the automatic option will see customers use about 1GB every three hours of Netflix. Dropping down to low will extend this to 1GB every four hours. Alternatively, subscribers with higher cap plans can use medium and high options, which use 1GB per two hours, and 1GB per hour, respectively.
These settings only affect data usage when viewing content on a mobile device on a cellular network. They won't change quality when streaming over Wi-Fi or a tethered connection.
To access Netflix's new settings, update the Netflix app on iOS or Android to the most recent version. Select "App Settings", and then pick "Cellular Data Usage".


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Clear Channel settles two of three discrimination lawsuits
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San Antonio-based Clear Channel has settled two of three lawsuits filed by African-American former sales account managers who worked for the company’s New Orleans cluster. Details of the settlements were not released.
A third lawsuit is proceeding, according to news reports.
The former employees had sued over a February 2009 revision of sales compensation and account assignments which they alleged were discriminatory. Clear Channel argued that the changes were based on the economic downturn.
Clear Channel operates more than 850 terrestrial radio stations along with the iHeart Radio streaming online service.
Mike W. Thomas covers technology/telecom, military, finance, regulatory issues as well as nonprofits/education.
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Motorola Mobility looked within for its new chief operating officer and president with the appointment of Rick Osterloh.
Osterloh is a veteran not only of Silicon Valley but Motorola as well, and based on his resume, he is quite experienced with leadership and company shuffles.
He first joined the smartphone maker seven years ago when Motorola acquired by then-employer Good Technology in 2006, where he led product management.
With the shift to Motorola, he was soon spearheading software and operation delivery for Android
Osterloh left for a period of time to oversee product and design at Skype before the popular messaging service was bought up by Microsoft for $8.5 billion in 2011.
Since returning to Motorola, Osterloh has served as senior vice president of product management at Motorola Mobility.
Motorola Mobility was acquired by Google in 2011 for $12.5 billion. The most recent turn of events involved Google jettisoning most of Motorola Mobility to Lenovo this past January for $2.91 billion.
Osterloh steps into the role of COO immediately, reporting to the Motorola Operating Board at Google until the Lenovo acquisition is complete.
Since then, Motorola has been pressed with a few different C-level searches. At press time, there was also a conflict about exactly what Osterloh's new role at Motorola is.
In February, it was reported that CEO Dennis Woodside, who was appointed as company chief in 2012, was jumping ship to serve as COO over at Dropbox.
We’re excited to announce that Rick Osterloh has been named as President and COO of Motorola Mobility. Rick will assume the role today, reporting to the Motorola Operating Board at Google until the Lenovo acquisition is complete.
Other reports on Wednesday suggest that Lenovo leadership has pegged Osterloh as CEO, rather than COO. ZDNet has pinged Motorola Mobility for clarification, and we will update this post once we hear back.
UPDATE: Motorola confirmed that Rick Osterloh's new role is President and Chief Operating Officer.
Image via Motorola Mobility


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Man's best friend does not like anything muscling in on that friendship. The first experimental test of jealousy in dogs shows that canines nip even at stuffed pooches when these fakes take away the attention of the dogs' owners. This new findings support the view that jealousy is a primordial emotion seen not only in humans, but in other animals as well, researchers said. The results also show that jealousy does not require especially complex minds, the scientists said.
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Electronic Arts has announced Need for Speed Rivals, the next iteration of the popular racing game, for the upcoming Xbox One and PlayStation 4 consoles. The game will also be available for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and the PC. The new game throws players into an open world-style gameplay, in which they can choose to become racers or cops, with each side offering its own set of challenges and rewards.


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The Asia-Pacific logistics market is expected to witness steady growth with the help of increasing trade & commerce activities between countries in the region. The share of Asia-Pacific in the global logistics market is expected to increase from nearly 32 percent in 2015 to almost 37 percent by 2022. In addition, the market is expected to generate revenue of over USD 875 billion by 2022, at a CAGR of around 9.2 percent. This is according to a report by Research Report Insights (RRI) titled “”Asia-Pacific Logistics Market by 2022″”.
Factors affecting market growth
Asia-Pacific is expected to witness an exponential growth in trade and commerce activities in the coming years, which is likely to bolster the Asia-Pacific logistics market during the forecast period. In addition, the booming e-commerce industry in the region has resulted in the expansion of the distribution centers of various industry players.
The Indo-European Bridge Logistics Zone, an industrial city of railway sheds and warehouses, and related services could be an important component of the regional logistics industry.
Indian logistics services are poised to rise further in Asia while challenging macroeconomic and industry factors will continue to impact the performance of most players in the market.
The government’s Bharatmala program with its targeted investment of Rs8 trillion will play a key role in enabling modern logistics. The plan also aims to create 100 freight corridors, and is expected to transform the logistics industry by linking India’s inland container depots and rail and road networks.
The Indo-European Bridge Logistics Zone, an industrial city of railway sheds and warehouses, and related services, could be an important component of the regional logistics industry.
It is estimated that the cargo handling capacity at will evolve and the long-term growth potential is more dynamic than ever, said Nachiketa Roy, a transportation and logistics analyst at Frost & Sullivan.
The largest expansion opportunity will come from E-commerce. The rapid growth of the e-commerce market has caused significant changes in the logistics industry, as demand is increasing by 40 per cent per annum. The e-commerce market in Asia-Pacific is estimated to be over USD 500 billion.
Despite the positive outlook, rapid growth is causing huge logistical challenges to international businesses in the region. This has sparked a sharp rise in demand for forward and reverse logistics, warehousing, and international freight forwarding.
Frost & Sullivan predicts a continuing rise in supply-chain complexity in the region as Asia-Pacific keeps moving towards a regional supply chain, which will mean higher levels of consolidation, increased cek ongkir semua ekspedisi
Asia is fast becoming a vital part of the global transportation industry, with Asia Pacific’s logistics services now valued at $1.5 trillion and growing at 5 percent per annum, according to a new study from Millward Brown Digital.
“The rapid growth of the Asia Pacific logistics sector is a great indicator of the fundamental trends reshaping the global supply chain,” said Marc English, Chief Research Officer, Millward Brown Digital.
“Global economic integration, increasing port density, rising population, and the ongoing boom in e-commerce are making more goods than ever available to global customers, while the advent of online shopping in China and India is translating into a huge surge in freight volumes moving through the region. And, due to its position on the Ring of Fire and its proximity to China and other emerging markets, the Pacific region is also a key area of opportunity for mining giants to expand their global reach and cut costs.”
Logistics services in Asia are becoming more important as traditional businesses diversify their operations in the region. The proliferation of smaller manufacturers and direct-to-consumer or subscription retail, online and mobile commerce, demand for advanced supply chain technologies and other innovative solutions for handling the world’s merchandise.
In the past, logistics service providers were not at the top of industry lists but have made rapid progress in the past few years as new players gain a foothold in Asia’s trade market. Innovation has been the name of the game, as companies look for alternative business models to compete in an increasingly cutthroat industry.
There’s a lot more space for competition today. It used to be that the top four players in logistics were all serving the same segment but now new ones are emerging, said Hiroshi Mikitani, CEO of Rakuten Inc., the parent of e-commerce giant Rakuten.com. business models shift, customer needs have changed, so there are a lot of new