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Brightree receives charge from private equity firm
DULUTH, Ga.--Brightree secured “a significant investment” from a private equity firm in July, giving the software vendor the wherewithal to make acquisitions, expand into new markets and boost spending on product development.
Brightree received funding from Battery Ventures, a Boston-based firm with $3 billion under management.
“The industry continues to be under fire, in terms of reimbursement cuts, but this is another vote of confidence from the capital market,” said Dave Cormack, president and CEO of Brightree.
Thanks to the financing, Brightree is in “active discussions” to acquire a “number of competitors,” Cormack said. The software vendor would make the acquisitions with an eye toward converting their customers to its Internet-based solution.
“There’s room for consolidation,” Cormack said. “It’s an extremely fragmented market with probably 20 to 30 systems out there, some of them 20 or more years old.”
Brightree also plans to expand its customer base to include the home health, retail pharmacy and long-term care markets. Currently, it serves the home medical equipment, orthotics and prosthetics, and sleep therapy markets.
“We’ve done a bit of test marketing on the retail pharmacy side, and any pharmacy that does $250,000 or more of HME business on an annual basis can justify using Brightree,” Cormack said. “We feel like we’ve tapped into a rich vein of return in that area.”
Additionally, Brightree plans to offer a “complete solution” for providers of any size that includes a GPS point-of-delivery system; a shipping integration system for providers who use FedEx; and a full point-of-sale system with cash draw and credit card capabilities.


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Kiwis get the chance to wiki on Digital Strategy
Ministry of Economic Development
Monday, 28 April 2008
Kiwis get the chance to wiki on the Draft Digital Strategy 2.0
Consultation on the Draft Digital Strategy 2.0 is providing New Zealanders with an innovative and interactive way to suggest wording for the refreshed Digital Strategy 2.0, which will be released later this year.
“The Digital Strategy wiki lets the public propose wording for the final Digital Strategy 2.0, which will update the 2005 Digital Strategy,” said Brad Ward, Digital Development Manager.
“Although a draft has been published, we want your ideas to add to the picture on how New Zealand can achieve its digital potential.”
Participation online through a wiki is not a new concept in New Zealand. The New Zealand Police launched a wiki version of the new Policing Act in September last year. The Policing Act wiki, one of the first of its kind worldwide, yielded a wide range of views from people interested in having a direct say on the shape of a new Police Act.
“Digital technologies have changed the way we communicate, interact, do business and participate as citizens. It’s wholly appropriate for us to be looking to new and innovative ways to ensure as many people as possible can and will participate in the refresh of the digital strategy,” said Brad Ward.
From the Hawaiian word for “quick”, a wiki is a type of website that can be edited easily, by anyone. The most well-known wiki is the online encyclopaedia Wikipedia.
The Digital Strategy wiki is open to all internet users. For those new to the concept, it includes a “wiki sandbox”, where people can practice their postings before they edit pages.
“We encourage everyone with an interest in digital issues to actively participate in the consultation process,” said Brad Ward. “If you can do it online using the wiki or online submission form – even better! It helps us to manage our carbon footprint.”
Suggestions and input on the wiki will be captured and summarised to develop one aggregated and collaborative submission on the draft strategy. Submissions on the draft strategy close at 5.00pm, Monday 12 May 2008.

domain: news


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2021 was supposed to be the 10th birthday of the Galaxy Note series, but unfortunately, that day never came. The S Pen has been an iconic element of the Galaxy Note series since its introduction as a tablet phone in 2011. But unfortunately, with the Galaxy S22 Ultra offering S Pen support, it seems the era of the beloved productivity-centric phone has finally come to an end.
The Galaxy Note series is more like Samsung’s rebellious response to the iPhone and the late Steve Jobs himself. It had everything the iPhone didn’t have, and everything Steve Jobs rejected: a huge screen (at least by the standards of the time) and, most importantly, a stylus that other smartphones tried to get rid of.
History will prove that Samsung was right, with many of today’s models featuring the so-called tablet phone size of yesteryear. While the Galaxy Note’s S-Pen remains somewhat unique, the desire for a mobile stylus has never gone away, even among some of Apple’s own fans.
Fortunately, the features that make up the DNA that defines the Galaxy Note aren’t going away …… even if you won’t see a new Galaxy Note phone for years to come.
Leading tipster @i Ice Universe broke the news that TM Roh, head of Samsung’s mobile division, said the Galaxy Note will come out every year as the Galaxy S Ultra. The immediate implication here is that there will be no more Galaxy Note models in the future. It also implies that the Galaxy S Ultra model will retain the same form factor and features as the Galaxy Note, just like the Galaxy S22 Ultra released in 2022.
In terms of functionality, this basically means that Galaxy S Ultra models will continue to carry the S-Pen inside them, a design change that started with this year’s Galaxy S22 Ultra, which had no room for a stylus inside compared to the previous Galaxy S21 Ultra generation.
The same oversized phone distinguishes itself from the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ with its square design, similar to the latest Galaxy Note models. Whether this design will continue to evolve remains unknown, but the exact look of the Galaxy Note has never been its defining feature.


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Borrowers benefit from card competition
Consumers who have run up debts on credit cards are being urged to take advantage of competition in the credit card market where some of the best deals are available in years.
Card companies are jostling to draw in customers with eye-catching fee-free deals and generous 0 per cent offers.
Capital One, one of the biggest card providers, today launched a card promising 0 per cent on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months: a deal labelled “unusually generous” by experts.
The competition in the credit card market comes as most institutions are curtailing lending and tightening criteria on personal loans and mortgages. Credit card companies have cut limits for those who have several cards or who are not using their full limit, but are


text: Rockport sponsors Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 11/2014 Clipper Ventures Plc, operator of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, has revealed details of its first official footwear partner today at the London Boat Show, as the Rockport Company® has entered into a global, multi-year partnership running until 2014. Rockport will provide hundreds of pairs of its Hydromotion 2 performance sailing shoes to all skippers, team members, and Clipper Race staff at various times throughout the three-year partnership. This will cover the remainder of the current race and the whole of the Clipper 13-14 Race featuring a brand new fleet of 12 Clipper 70 yachts. The company will also activate the agreement through an integrated global marketing media platform. Clipper Race founder and chairman, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world in 1968-9, said, “I am very pleased to welcome Rockport on board as an official supplier to the Clipper Race, which provides a unique global platform to promote international brands around the world. We value Rockport’s partnership and look forward to putting their footwear to the ultimate test.” The Rockport Company, LLC, is a leading brand within the adidas Group corporate portfolio and one of the most recognised footwear brands in the United States. “We are thrilled to partner with a major global event like the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race and having participants take the Hydromotion 2 collection for the ultimate wear test,” says Daniel Tschuemperlin, Senior Vice President of Product and Brand Management at Rockport. “For years, Rockport has invested immense amounts of time and resources into making not only the most technologically advanced boat shoes but also the most stylish, and we feel there is no better way to prove the merit of these products than to have the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race staffers, skippers and sailors wear them over the next three years.” Rockport will launch an integrated marketing campaign this year (2012) that will include elements on Rockport.com, social media channels and in-store promotional campaigns in select markets, as well as Clipper Race properties on Rockport owned social channels including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. In addition, in-port marketing and public relations initiatives will be activated at select major port stops during the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. The Hydromotion 2 collection will be available at Rockport stores and www.rockport.com globally beginning March 2012.


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» Property industry should work together to weather the storm
17/12/2008 - News Article
» Grimsby's Top Cat refurbished by Panther - South Humberside Industrial Estate, Grimsby
16/12/2008 - Press Release
» Couple take reins of enterprise targeting equestrian community - Tokenspire Park, Beverley
10/12/2008 - Press Release
» Surveyor launches revamped website
27/11/2008 - News Article
» Technology business finds ideal location near M-way - Melton Business Park, Melton
26/11/2008 - Press Release
» Courier company takes on second unit at site close to motorway - Knedlington Industrial Estate, Howden
12/11/2008 - Press Release
» Flexible friend to business - the Deep Business Centre
03/09/2008 - Press Release
» Garness Jones backs major exhibition of famous Hull and East Yorkshire artist
02/09/2008 - News Article
» Warren Park welcomes Manor Travel as first tenant
01/09/2008 - Press Release
» RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT SNAPPED UP
26/08/2008 - News Article
» Two west Hull sites bought and in development
01/08/2008 - Press Release
» Two west Hull sites are being renovated by a City property developer
01/07/2008 - Press Release
» Chartered Surveyor joins growing Residential Department
11/06/2008 - News Article
» Property sells for £1m plus
01/06/2008 - Press Release
» Four companies have leased premises on Brookfield Business Park, Market Weighton
01/06/2008 - Press Release
Garness Jones Reception
Property industry should work together to weather the storm
Garness Jones has reported a successful 2008 and believes that good business will continue to be possible during the credit crunch.
Dave Garness was speaking at his company’s third annual Christmas event at Ferens Art Gallery, Hull.
He told an audience of more than 250 property industry professionals and clients that despite current difficulties, trade was still occurring and with hard work results would still be achieved.
“Working together and supporting each other is the key to doing business at the moment. The risk is that people talk about doing business but then don’t have the confidence to move forward with their ideas,” said Mr Garness.
During 2008, Garness Jones has let 1.4m sq ft of industrial space, sold 85 per cent of development and investment residential instructions, sold or let half of its retail and leisure instructions and, during the second half of the year, sold or let 23 offices.
Mr Garness added: “Despite these healthy figures, a lot of hard work is still to be done with regards to remaining and new instructions.”
Considered one of the most popular property industry events in the area, guests included architects, surveyors, property agents, bankers, property developers and the two local authorities, as well as clients.
Garness Jones, which is also sponsoring the gallery’s Walter Goodin exhibition, saw the event as an opportunity to enjoy some Christmas celebrations despite the economic downturn.


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MOL Global IPO proceeds to be partly used to repay MDV loan
By Goh Thean Eu July 16, 2014
- IPO proceeds will be used to repay debts, among other uses
- No plans to pay dividends in the foreseeable future
MOL Global Inc, the largest largest alternative e-payment facilitator for online digital goods and services in South-East Asia by payment volume according to Frost & Sullivan, will use a portion of its initial public offering (IPO) proceeds to cut down on its borrowings, including the money it owes to Malaysia Debt Venture Bhd (MDV).
MOL Global is preparing for a listing on the Nasdaq Global Market in September. According to its preliminary prospectus, it may raise up to US$300 million in the listing exercise. The final amount of the IPO has yet to be determined as at press time.
From the amount, approximately US$30 million will be used to repay debts. These debts comprise the RM29.3 million it owes MOL Global Singapore in the form of interest-free advances when it acquired Game Sultan, PaytoGo, NganLuong, Rixty, Uniwiz and Zest.
It also plans to settle part of RM68 million in revolving credit facility it received from MDV. The company, however, did not disclose how much it plans to reduce its MDV debt by. MDV is an arm of the Malaysian Government that plays the role of a debt financier for companies in strategic industries. [RM1 = US$0.31]
From the listing proceeds, about US$25 million will be used to increase its beneficial ownership in its subsidiaries – namely MOL Thailand, Game Sultan, PaytoGo and MyCNX, the company said.
“The balance [will be used] for general corporate purposes, including funding potential acquisition of complementary businesses and funding our ongoing working capital requirements,” MOL Global said in its preliminary prospectus.
A bulk of its proceeds may be used to expand to new markets as well as to accelerate growth in its existing markets, including Indonesia, Thailand, Brazil, Turkey, the United States, New Zealand, Australia and Vietnam.
MOL Global, majority-owned by Malaysian billionaire Vincent Tan (pic), operates a payments platform that facilitates online and mobile commerce for consumers. Its primary product is its MOLPoints micropayment system, which sells payment credits that can be used by consumers to purchase online game credits and other digital content, such as Facebook Game Cards.
It also operates MOLReloads, a distribution network that distributes prepaid mobile airtime and digital content; MOLPay, a payment solution for online merchants; and MMOG.asia, an online games portal.
It plans to launch MOLWallet, an online and mobile payment processing and money transfer system, in Malaysia sometime this year.
Based on the information available in the preliminary prospectus, Tan currently has a 69.3% stake in MOL Global, Sultan Ibrahim of Johor has a 14.7% stake and Ganesh Kumar Bangah, the group chief executive officer and the founder of MOL Global, has an 11.3% stake.
The document did not state how much these major shareholders' stakes will be diluted post-IPO.
The underwriters for the IPO are Citigroup, Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank Securities.
Strong potential in emerging economies
E-payment service providers are seeing strong growth because of a few factors, such as increasing Internet penetration and digital content, as well as the growth in the e-commerce and online gaming industry.
In a Frost & Sullivan research report contained in MOL Global's preliminary prospectus, the research and analyst firm said it will not be surprising if MOL Global decides to accelerate its business in Brazil and Indonesia.
These two countries, which have household Internet penetration rates of 52.7% and 20.3% respectively in 2013, are expected to see Internet penetration rates reach approximately 70% by 2018. The Philippines and Thailand, which are also key markets for MOL Global, are expected to see Internet penetration rates hit 69.4% and 73% respectively by 2018, from under 40% in 2013.
Smartphone penetration in these key markets is also expected to grow. Frost & Sullivan said that Brazil, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam are expected to see smartphone penetration reach as high as 74.2% by 2018, from as low as 14.5% in 2013.
In terms of e-commerce revenues, Indonesia is expected to experience the highest growth amongst its key markets – from US$1 billion in 2013 to US$14.7 billion in 2018, representing a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 71.2% (click chart below to enlarge).
Brazil, whose e-commerce market size is over US$18 billion in 2013, is expected to hit US$34.5 billion by end-2018.
No dividends for the near-term
As MOL Global is still in the growth phase of its business, the company said that it has no plans to pay dividends to its shareholders in the near-term.
“We do not have any present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foressable future after this offering,” MOL Global said in its preliminary prospectus.
MOL Global registered a 79% growth in revenue in 2013 to RM171.5 million, while net profit more than tripled to RM18.7 million compared with RM6 million in 2012.
On the surface level, it appears that MOL Global is poised for another growth year this year. The company posted RM48.6 million in revenue for the first quarter ended March 31. Should it maintain its revenue performance in the remaining three quarters, its full-year revenue could be more than RM190 million.
As at end 2013, the company has more than 4.44 million registered users, including 1.45 million registered users in Malaysia and 1.38 million in the rest of South-East Asia. It also has 526,121 registered users in Turkey.
The number of registered users has continued to grow. For the first quarter ended March 31, registered members grew 11% to 4.94 million, of whom 997,091 are active registered paying users.
MOL Global also processed over 20.84 million transactions last year, and more than 4.98 million transactions in the first quarter 2014 alone.


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KTM Brabus 1300 R Revealed
By Carandbike Team
1 mins read
Published on February 16, 2022
- Supercar tuner Brabus unveils KTM 1290 Super Duke R based motorcycle
- Brabus 1300 uses the 1290 Super Duke engine and frame
- The Brabus 1300 will be offered on sale only in certain European markets
Mercedes car tuner Brabus has been working on the firm's first motorcycle project, joining hands with KTM, and now official detail and images have ben released. As expected, the company's first project with KTM uses the KTM 1290 Super Duke R as a platform and shares the same frame and engine. Production of the new Brabus 1300 R will be limited to just 154 bikes, 77 in Magma Red and 77 in Signature Black. The number 77 is a nod to the founding year of the brand, 1977, and it's been churning out high-end Mercedes-based supercars since then. The KTM-Brabus 1300 R project is the company's first venture into the world of two-wheelers.
The Brabus 1300 R is heavily based on KTM's 1290 Super Duke R, sharing the same engine rated at 177 bhp and 140 Nm of torque. The Brabus 1300 R gets new air intakes on either side of the fuel tank, and a stacked exhaust system with a black ceramic finish.
The Brabus 1300 R will also get the same semi-active WP Apex SAT suspension as the new Super Duke R Evo, with the Suspension Pro feature as standard. This suspension adds the ability to control the rear ride height from the TFT panel, with three levels, Low, Standard, or High.
The TFT instrument console is one of the components that is changed for the Brabus 1300 R, with a new start-up screen that shows the Brabus logo. The seat also takes inspiration from Brabus cars, and is available in either red, or black. The big visual difference is of course the face, as well as the flanks, with a carbon fibre cowl sitting on top of a circular headlight, covered with the Brabus logo. Bar-end mirrors hang from the ends of the adjustable position bars, and there's liberal use of carbon fibre on the front fender as well as the brake air ducts, borrowed from the Super Duke RR.
Prices for the Brabus 1300 R have been announced starting at 51,466 Euros (approximately Rs. 44 lakh at current exchange rates), and sales will be limited to Europe.
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The Competition and Markets Authority has confirmed the start of a formal investigation into the proposed merger between J Sainsbury plc and Asda Group Ltd, which was announced on April 30.
Since then it has been gathering information to start the first phase of the formal investigation, which will look at the competitive impact on UK shoppers – the possibility of less choice, higher prices, and poorer service; plus to what extent increased buyer power will put a damaging squeeze on suppliers and stifle innovation.
Apart from their sizable grocery, online and non-food businesses, they are also significant fuel retailers – Asda with 317 forecourts and Sainsbury’s with 311, giving them a combined fuel market share of around 18%.
Andrea Coscelli, chief executive of the CMA, said: “About £190 billion is spent each year on food and groceries in the UK so it’s vital to find out if the millions of people who shop in supermarkets could lose out as a result of this deal.
“We will carry out a thorough investigation to find out if this merger could lead to higher prices or a worse quality of service for shoppers and will not allow it to go ahead unless any concerns we find are fully dealt with.”
Sainsbury’s and Asda have asked the CMA to move more quickly to the in-depth (Phase 2) part of the inquiry through a ‘fast-track’ process.
The CMA expects to accept this request unless it receives any valid objections to the use of the fast-track process.
The CMA is now inviting views by 31 August on how the merger could affect competition. This follows the preliminary invitation to comment launched at the start of the information gathering period. Further opportunities to submit views will also be provided during the Phase 2 investigation.


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Information contained on this page is provided by companies via press release distributed through PR Newswire, an independent third-party content provider. PR Newswire, WorldNow and this Station make no warranties or representations in connection therewith.
SOURCE Darden Restaurants, Inc.: Financial
ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI) will be webcasting their Darden 2013 Analyst & Investor Day being held in Orlando, FL on Monday, February 25th and Tuesday, February 26, 2013.
On Monday, February 25th, the webcast will begin at 2:00 p.m. ET and end at 6:00 p.m. ET. Please go to http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=91940 to access Monday's webcast.
On Tuesday, February 26th, the webcast will begin at 8:00 a.m. ET and end at 12:00 p.m. ET. Please go to http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=91941 to access Tuesday's webcast.
Live Webcast Agenda
Monday, February 25, 2013
2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. ET
2:00 p.m. Presentations:
6:00 p.m. Conclude
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET
8:00 a.m. Presentations:
12:00 pm Adjourn
The archived webcasts will also be available on the home page of the company's website www.darden.com through March 26, 2013.
Darden Restaurants, Inc., (NYSE: DRI), the world's largest full-service restaurant company, owns and operates more than 2,000 restaurants that generate over $8.0 billion in annual sales. Headquartered in Orlando, Fla., and employing more than 190,000 people, Darden is recognized for a culture that rewards caring for and responding to people. In 2013, Darden was named to the FORTUNE "100 Best Companies to Work For" list for the third year in a row and is the only full-service restaurant company to ever appear on the list. Our restaurant brands – Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Bahama Breeze, Seasons 52, The Capital Grille, Eddie V's and Yard House – reflect the rich diversity of those who dine with us. Our brands are built on deep insights into what our guests want. For more information, please visit www.darden.com.
©2012 PR Newswire. All Rights Reserved.


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Australia’s media agency market has finished the calendar year close to last year’s record level, with the value of the ad spend back just 2.7 per cent to deliver the second largest total of annual ad spend ever recorded, according to the latest SMI Data.
But this top line result was heavily impacted by last year’s huge Government and Political Party ad spend due to both the Federal Election and COVID response, and when bookings for those categories are removed across both years the underlying ad market shows a reduced decline of just 0.9 per cent (or $72 million).
Even so the top-line total remains 8.2 per cent – or more than $660 million – larger than the pre-COVID 2019 total.
Guideline SMI APAC Managing Director Jane Ractliffe said the 2023 year was notable for the success of Outdoor, with the media reporting a record level of revenue with the total up 15.1 per cent (or 18.5 per cent on an underlying basis).
“Outdoor media’s recovery from the COVID era has been quite extraordinary with growth continuing to accelerate each year since the pandemic with this year’s revenues now 70 per cent higher than the COVID-hit year of CY2020 but also 43.3 per cent above the CY2021 total even though the media had already reported a strong recovery that year,’’ Ractliffe said.
“So Outdoor is doing well in a market that’s emerged as the second largest ad market of all time, with last year’s abnormal Federal Election boost delivering a huge record total. And despite higher interest rates and global uncertainty the CY2023 total is just 0.9 per cent below that record level on an underlying basis.’’
Digital bookings also continued to grow this year with the star sector being Video Sites as the BVOD and CTV markets quickly gain strong traction, pushing total growth for TV-related Video content to 32.4 per cent on an underlying basis.
As a result we’ve also seen the value of Video-based Digital campaigns (+7.4 per cent this year) get closer to the traditionally larger Display inventory (+1.4 per cent) with only $150 million now separating the two.
And the Audio market also delivered CY2023 growth of 0.5 per cent on an underlying basis when the growing podcast and streaming markets were also included.
Among key advertiser groups, the Automotive Brand category reported the highest increase in ad investment across the year with that category’s spend up 11.3 per cent, followed by Insurance ad spend (+7.7 per cent) and then Restaurants (+8.6 per cent).
And the Government category clearly reported the largest decline with total ad revenues back by more than $100 million on the CY2022 year.
Meantime, results for the month of December showed the market back 9.1 per cent YOY with Outdoor the only major media to grow revenues (+6.8 per cent).
And financial year-to-date results show the market is so far back just 2.3 per cent given the growth evident in Q3 this year. Within that Outdoor revenues are up 14.3 per cent and Digital ad spend has lifted 3.4 per cent.
Please login with linkedin to commentSMI Data
This International Women’s Day, CARE Australia will celebrate women as global change-makers amid increasingly frequent conflicts and climate-related crises, with Ashleigh Streeter-Jones, Natalie Kyriacou OAM, and Justine Cullen spearheading the initiative as ambassadors. Lead image: Ashleigh Streeter-Jones In its third consecutive year, the ambassadors will champion CARE Australia’s Her Circle initiative, which recognises that: when […]
Warner Brothers Discovery’s Newshub is set to close its doors in June 2024, leaving up to 300 staff, including high-profile presenters Mike McRoberts and Samantha Hayes, out of a job. In a statement today, Warner Bros. Discovery said it had started consultation on a “proposed remodelling and restructure of its ANZ free-to-air business in New […]
Australian Turf Club invites racing lovers across Australia to Expect It All with the launch of the latest creative campaign to highlight the racing on offer in Sydney at Rosehill Gardens and Royal Randwick. The campaign, which will officially launch ahead of this year’s Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival, highlights the wide range of incredible experiences […]
Something insane swept to New Zealand as finals approached last year. “Wahs Mania” took hold, and hope was ignited in the hearts of Kiwis who mostly didn’t usually care about League. Sadly, the Warriors didn’t make it through to the grand final, but the clubs following saw a massive increase nonetheless. Welcome back to B&T’s Spotlight […]
Avid Collective has officially announced the appointment of former Scout Publishing and Junkee Media executive Niki Jones (lead image) as its new head of enablement operations. In the newly created role, Jones will be responsible for overseeing operational activities across various arms of business with a focus on partner engagement. “Niki’s appointment comes at an […]


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Nordstrom extends its temporary store closure for at least one week, through April 5. Due to the uncertainty of COVID-19, the Company will continue to assess the situation market by market and will provide further updates as appropriate. This closure impacts all stores, including Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Trunk Club, Jeffrey, Nordstrom Local and Last Chance.
Since March 17, Nordstrom has provided ongoing pay and benefits to all store employees impacted by the temporary closures. The Company plans to offer store employees an additional week of pay through April 5, as well as benefits through April. The Company will require a smaller workforce to execute on the critical activities of the business during this time. As a result, it will be furloughing a portion of corporate employees starting April 5 for six weeks. Impacted corporate employees will continue to receive enrolled benefits. The Nordstrom Executive Leadership Group will forgo a part of their salary, and both Pete and Erik Nordstrom will decline their salary from April through September. Similarly, all members of the Company’s Board of Directors will forgo cash compensation for a six-month period.


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Flint Group has agreed to acquire the majority shareholder of Xeikon, XBC BV, and use the press and consumables manufacturer as the basis of a new digital division.
Berforts Information Press (BIP), one of the last dedicated colour book printers in the UK, has been placed in administration.
Northend has upgraded its finishing capabilities by taking on a Cellcoat Emerald 52 thermal laminator.
An Essex-based printer that went into administration last month has now closed its doors, with the loss of all seven jobs.
Canon has sold print-on-demand specialist Kite, which it acquired two years ago, to Cardiff-headquartered Prodigi Group.
CPG has concluded its installation of a range of new pre-press kit and software from Agfa.
Printing ‘Smoking kills’ onto every individual cigarette could discourage smokers, according to new research.
London’s historic Stationers’ Hall will once again host the Power of Print seminar, a one-day event that highlights the potency of print’s unique characteristics...
A growing number of independent fashion brands are using digital print to produce their own sustainable clothing.
Websites that convert potential customers into actual customers are essential in today’s marketplace – if yours doesn’t, your rivals’ might.
Recycling is something we all do so naturally now that we barely stop to think about it. All of us have at least two bins in our driveways, if not three...
In May, Prinovis UK hosted a VIP event to officially launch its new web offset printing capability. The Liverpool-based print company, which following...
MGI’s do-it-all B1 inkjet is now set for beta trials.
When Rapidity acquired a new spacious building, it was time to install a new B2 press and branch into more diverse areas of work.
A flexible, yet cost-effective, folder gluer.


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LEGO has announced that a female minifigure set, featuring three scientists along with their lab gear, will be released as the next LEGO Ideas set. This “Research Institute” model is an official set of all-female scientist figures — a paleontologist, an astronomer and a chemist — made with regular LEGO minifigures.
The new set is a result of LEGO’s Ideas (formerly LEGO CUUSOO) project, which allows users to create and upload their own LEGO concepts. People then vote on the ideas, and the winner is turned into a real product. Previous winners have included a Ghostbusters 30th anniversary set, a Minecraft “Micro world,” a DeLorien from Back to the Future, and the Mars Curiosity Rover.
Swedish geochemist Alatariel Elensar submitted the idea for a female set featuring minifigure scientists — an astronomer with a telescope, a paleontologist with a dinosaur and a chemist in a lab. Elensar explained that “The motto of these scientists is clear: explore the world and beyond!” The submission received huge endorsements from around the Internet.
The Research Institute’s unveiling was announced on You Tube on June 3, 2014: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrWK3UIvXYs , and a statement on the LEGO Ideas site reads “We’re very excited to release Ellen Kooijman’s Female Minifigure set, featuring three scientists, now entitled “Research Institute” as our next LEGO Ideas set. This awesome model is an inspiring set that offers a lot for kids as well as adults. The final design, pricing and availability are still being worked out, but it’s on track to be released August 2014, so keep an eye out!”
For more information, images and discussion, visit the designer’s blog at Alatariel's Atelier


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01977 277 877
Browsers To Introduce Non-HTTPS Alerts
This will have a huge impact on millions of live websites...
As of Monday 24th October 2016, Twilo Creative Limited is pleased to announce a new partnership with UKFast.
Netflix growth slows as Disney dents performance. Also Sainsbury's, Vodafone & Starbucks updates…


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‘Indian component suppliers no more questioned for quality’
Davies, who is now Chief Executive Officer of the UK Government’s Automotive Investment Organisation (AIO) speaking to ETAuto said that the perception of quality of the auto components from Indian manufacturers has changed completely
NEW DELHI: Not too long back, Indian auto components were not considered at par with the likes of Germans in quality. But that has completely changed, said Lawrence Davies, who has been the Director of purchase at General Motors.
Davies, who is now Chief Executive Officer of the UK Government’s Automotive Investment Organisation (AIO) speaking to ETAuto said that the perception of quality of the auto components from Indian manufacturers has changed completely. “If look at it from my history of life in purchasing from India, one big event that triggered the change was the buying of JLR by Tata Motors. “And if you look at component makers who are present in UK like Amtek and SMR, they are of the highest quality and supply to all the big OEMs.
Davies, was recently in India to invite Indian manufacturers to “Make in UK.” He said that the response was very encouraging as he got decent number of queries from the auto component makers. “The main queries that we are getting from component is on what are the kind of opportunities that are available in UK and what kind of help that can be expected from the government,” said Davies.
According to AIO, which is part of UK Trade & Investments (UKTI), has $ 4 billion sourcing opportunity for auto component manufacturers. UK based companies are primarily looking for UK-based suppliers in segments like engine castings and forgings, steering systems, fuel tanks electronics, shock absorbers etc.
One of the biggest advantages for companies that will invest in UK is the relatively lower tax of around 20 percent which is set to go down to less than 19 percent, Davies claimed. He also informed that close to 10 companies from India are already in talks for investing in UK.
AIO helps companies that are looking to invest in UK by dealing with the government procedures, finding location in UK and also help them find customers.
AIO’s pitch for attracting investment into the country comes at a time when India is pushing its own Make in India initiative. However, Davies said that the investment made in UK will not only be restricted to UK but will have a knock-on effect as well. “We can help them win potential contracts in UK which then opens the door to other companies present there, which then can have a knock-on effect on their business here,” explained Davies.
Apart from Guleria, Pradeep Pandey senior vice-president (customer service), HMSI has put in his papers. In February this year Shekhar MC, formerly general manager (finished vehicles logistics), too exited the company and joined Ola Electric Mobility.
The buses will benefit from the central government subsidy offered under the remodeled FAME II scheme administered by the Ministry of Heavy Industries. “With the very low discovered prices under the Grand Challenge, a savings of approximately Rs 361 crore of national subsidy can be realised, which in turn may be utilised for additional buses,” it said.


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The planned growth comes after the company achieved a production capacity of more than 10 million oysters per annum and a profitable operating base.
Angel’s growth plans include the acquisition of 6.25 hectares of premium Eyre Peninsula water leases, new-age biodynamic flip-farming trials to drive increased yields and enhanced brand positioning.
“Excited about next phase”
Angel’s CEO and founder Zac Halman said: “We are very excited about the next phase of growth for our company.
“Our committed team have worked hard to get to where we are today, and our board believes the time is now right to move to the next phase of Angel’s evolution.
“We are pleased to have entered into new lease agreements for additional high-quality water in the Eyre Peninsula, increasing the production capacity of our successful Multi-Bay Strategy.
“Demand for our premium organic oysters has continued to grow and we are excited to be able to expand our capacity in the region.
“With 2 hectares of the new leases in Coffin Bay having the infrastructure in place, this means that we can get straight to work and produce more Angel oysters from the start of 2021, while undeveloped leases are earmarked to be rolled out for our flip-farming trials.”
Increased capacity through acquisitions
With the company acquiring additional 6.25 hectares of premium Eyre Peninsula water leases, annual production capacity will increase to 12 million oysters from the current 10 million.
The 6.25 hectares of water leases will be held under leasing agreements with terms ranging from 6-15 years at an aggregate cost of $138,000 per annum, with options to buy at the end of the lease periods, or first right of refusal.
Productivity through innovation
In line with Angel’s objectives to increase productivity through innovation, the board has approved the trial of a new bio-dynamic oyster farming system, called ‘FlipFarm’, on 3 hectares of deepwater leases in Coffin Bay.
This will be the first time this modern farming method has been trialled on the Eyre Peninsula.
FlipFarm systems have been successfully applied in New Zealand and are known to increase productivity and require less labour, thereby significantly lowering operating costs.
Halman said: “We are extremely proud to be bringing FlipFarms into our operations.
“This modern bio-dynamic farming method has the potential to be a game-changer for Angel’s productivity and perfectly aligns with Angel’s values of organic and sustainable oyster farming.
“This method has been successful in international oyster farming, and we hope the broader industry can also benefit from our trials through more efficient farming methods and ultimate environmental care.”
Building the Angel brand
The company will also be focusing on its premium brand positioning to improve pricing.
Angel has achieved strong traction with major retailers and is also benefiting from some retailers undertaking specific marketing campaigns, including being featured in Costco’s Christmas catalogue and Drakes weekly catalogue.
Halman said, “Our retail strategy is going strong and we are proud to have been featured in Costco’s Christmas catalogue and Drakes’ weekly catalogues this year.
“This is testament to Angel’s growing recognition of its capability to guarantee supply of organic, sustainable and high-quality oysters from pristine waters in South Australia.”


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British watch brand Kennett Watches has announced a new sports ambassador in Frank Wrathall, the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) driver.
Wrathall is the latest signing to Kennett and joins fellow racing drivers Jake Cook and Tom Ingram as gents representing the brand from a sporting stance.
Kennett is currently in the process of a marketing and retailer outreach drive in the UK, which has included signing a number of sportsmen as well as gifting timepieces to celebrities including Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon.
Wrathall said of the partnership: “I am a huge fan of Kennett watches and really like how ambitious the brand is to grow across the world and become a major player in their industry.
“Their aspirations resonate with me as I continue to work up the racing ladder and strive to improve season-on-season. I hope to share many successes with Kennett over the course of my career.”
Wrathall can be seen racing in the BTCC on ITV4 next month, while Tom Kennett, founder of the Kennett brand, described Wrathall as a hugely talented sportsman.
“He is a real leader and trend setter amongst his peers; just the kind of individual we want to associate the KENNETT brand with,” Kennett added.


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President Donald Trump on Tuesday accused motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson of quitting on the United States by moving more of its manufacturing overseas to avoid hefty new European Union tariffs on its bikes made in the U.S.
In a string of Twitter comments targeting the iconic American manufacturer, Trump contended that "A Harley-Davidson should never be built in another country-never!"
With Harley's falling U.S. sales, Trump declared, "Their employees and customers are already very angry at them. If they move, watch, it will be the beginning of the end - they surrendered, they quit! The Aura will be gone and they will be taxed like never before!"
The U.S. leader said that the company, based in the midwestern state of Wisconsin, had already announced plans last year to move some of its manufacturing from the U.S. to Thailand and now was using the 31 percent tariff the EU is imposing on Harley's U.S-made bikes as an excuse to further increase overseas production. Parts for the firm's motorcycles are made throughout the world, including in Brazil, Australia, India, Japan and Mexico.
Harley-Davidson said the EU tax would add $2,200 to the cost of each U.S. bike it sent to Europe, potentially costing the company up to $45 million for the rest of 2018 and about $90 million to $100 million annually in the future. Trump warned that the company "must know that they won’t be able to sell back into U.S. without paying a big tax!"
Trump first vented his ire at the company Monday, saying he was "Surprised that Harley-Davidson, of all companies, would be the first to wave the White Flag" and move manufacturing overseas because of the EU tariffs. He urged the company, whose top officials visited the White House last year shortly after Trump took office, to "Be patient!"
Aside from taxing the Harley imports, the EU is imposing new levies on several iconic U.S. brands, including Levi's jeans and Kentucky bourbon, all in response to Trump's imposition of new tariffs on European steel and aluminum exports.
The EU's top trade official, Cecilia Malmstrom, said Harley's move toward making its bikes overseas is a result of Trump's tariffs.
"We don't want to punish, but that is the unfortunate consequence, that [U.S. companies] will put pressure on the American administration to say 'Hey, hold on a minute. This is not good for the American economy,'" Malmstrom said.
‘They must play fair’
In his Tuesday tweets, Trump defended his trade battles with the EU, Canada, Mexico and China.
"We are getting other countries to reduce and eliminate tariffs and trade barriers that have been unfairly used for years against our farmers, workers and companies," he said. "We are opening up closed markets and expanding our footprint. They must play fair or they will pay tariffs!"
Trump said the U.S. is finishing its study of tariffs on cars the EU exports to the U.S. He claimed that the EU has "long taken advantage of the U.S. in the form of Trade Barriers and Tariffs. In the end it will all even out - and it won’t take very long!"
Trump told a political rally Monday night in South Carolina, "I want the barriers taken down, I want our farmers to be able to trade" in Canada and Europe with reduced tariffs.
Since he began campaigning for president, Trump has sought to put U.S. trade interests first, including working to negotiate new trade deals with some of the country's largest economic partners. That has included talks to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico, as well as separate efforts to alter existing relationships with the European nations.
China has been the recipient of some of Trump's strongest words as his administration demanded changes to address the longstanding gap in trade between the two countries. Those talks have brought threats from both sides of new tariffs that have also helped shake financial markets fearing a trade war between the world's two largest economies.
"They might not be helping us anymore and that would be too bad," Trump said Monday. "I've been as nice as I can as long as I can, but we got to get some balance and it doesn't have to be perfect, but there's got to be some fairness."
U.S. stock markets plunged Monday on fears of an international trade war, but Asian markets were mixed on Tuesday and European stocks advanced in early-day trading.


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Happi, a media business that delivers in-depth research of the personal care industry, recently named MONAT Global Corporation’s parent company Alcora as one of the top 50 most resilient beauty, home care, and personal care companies in the United States.
“We are ecstatic that MONAT and Alcora have been named among Happi’s top 50 most resilient home and personal care companies,” said Ray Urdaneta, MONAT Global’s Co-Founder and CEO. “No one could have predicted the enormous hardships that everyone would experience over the last 12 months. I’m grateful to our staff, our market partners, and our consumers for rising to the challenge and achieving this success.”
MONAT’s leadership owes the company’s recent development to its focus on fostering a diverse and excellent culture as well as the quality of its goods.
Stuart MacMillan, President of MONAT Global, remarked, “Our placement on Happi’s Top 50 Companies for 2021 has allowed us to exhibit remarkable resilience.” “From a worldwide epidemic to economic turmoil, our placement on the 2021 list illustrates how we have continued to achieve achievement despite adversity.”
The headquarters of MONAT and Alcora Corporation’s other two holdings are in Miami, Florida.


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Kevin Mayer, Disney's Chief Strategy Officer, appeared at the Code Media conference and fittingly talked about the strategy of Disney. Here is some of what he shared:
Hulu is still losing money, but each of the owners of Hulu gets money from the streaming service for licensing their content.
Disney is not trying to kill Netflix, but they feel they can serve their customers better by going direct to them.
When asked if he would want the vacant job as the head of ESPN, he replied, "I'm going to do what Bob has me doing, happily."
As has been reported everywhere, Disney is looking to have a three-pronged streaming strategy with Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars content going on their branded service, sports content on ESPN Plus, and general audience content (ABC, Freeform, FX) on Hulu.
UPDATE: Recode has posted a video of their conversation with Kevin Mayer:


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Made-In-India Kia SUV's interior design sketch revealed
Kia Motors will be making a debut in India shortly with their first ever offering, an SUV. This Korean automobile brand is owned by Hyundai but will be positioned above as a more premium alternative. The SUV, speculated to be called Tusker or Trazor, will primarily compete with the Tata Harrier and the Mahindra XUV500. It will also lock horns with the recently unveiled MG Hector. Kia Motors have confirmed that the production spec SUV, that is based on the SP2i concept showcased at the Auto Expo will be unveiled on June 20. The car's trial production commenced on January 29, 2019 and will be manufactured at Kia's state-of-the-art facility in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh.
The company has now released sketches of the cabin of this SUV. Similar to the outside, the one of the left is basically a sketch of the production ready right side. The cabin will come equipped with a new 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system which will offer a range of features. The centre console will have tactile buttons for controlling the ventilation and air-conditioning. Additionally, the cabin boasts of Kia's Sound Mood Lighting technology that can alter the cabin's ambient lighting according to occupants' preferences.
"We have focused on designing a cabin unlike any other in the mid-SUV segment, with a greater sense of depth and richness to the design. Our newest model will offer greater pleasure and satisfaction to our customers, with a premium-quality interior that benefits from sophisticated design details." comments, Byung Chul Juh, Head of Kia Styling at Kia Motors Corporation.
Starts Rs 12.23 Lakhs
Starts Rs 12.74 Lakhs
Starts Rs 13.69 Lakhs
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Tesla – the company that made electric vehicles sexy for the first time – just announced that they’re on track to get the first Model S sedans on the road next summer. While talking to Autoblog at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, Tesla Motors vice president of communications, Ricardo Reyes, said that they are finishing up their final preparations to release the cars in the U.S. by the summer and to the rest of the world about six months after that. Tesla is offering an impressive range selection for the Model S — 160, 230 or 300 miles depending on the cash you shell out — and they’re planning to build a “supercharging network” that will charge their vehicles from 10% to 90% in just 45 minutes. In addition to opening up the roads to all-electric, zero-emissions long-distance road trips Tesla will be unveiling the look of their new Model X — a seven passenger crossover SUV — in February.
Though excitement about the two new models reigned, Reyes did not forget to bow to the original beauty that allows his company to keep making headlines and racking up sales. “We are here because of the Roadster,” Reyes told Autoblog. “Because the Roadster so quickly changed everyone’s viewpoint on what an electric vehicle could be, an electric car became desirable.” He noted that the Model X will follow the same styling guidelines as the Model S.
The Roadster attracted the eyes of environmentalists and car enthusiasts alike with its sexy styling and high tech engine and now the Model S is getting the spotlight, but it owes a lot of its stardom to the vehicle that came before it. Reyes knows that now the company is on a mission with the Model S as their new star – the Roadster, after all, was meant to be produced in limited numbers. “From the beginning, the Roadster was conceived as a limited production vehicle. Our original agreement with Lotus was for a glider run of 2,400 vehicles. Due to continued demand, we increased production into 2012 for a total run of 2,500. We decided to continue offering Roadsters in the markets outside the United States where Model S deliveries start later,” he told Autoblog in an e-mail.
As for the Model S, pricing while taking into account the federal tax credit will start at $57,400 for the 160 mile version, the 230-mile variant will be $67,400, the 300-mile version will be $77,400 and they’ll also have a $87,400 Perfomance model that has the same battery as the 300-mile version. Tesla is also laying out their plans for this mysterious “supercharging network” that will entirely take away the range anxiety for long road trips — as if their lengthy battery range isn’t enough. Reyes says they’d need a mere 30 supercharging stations to get their drivers safely up and down the coastlines and that each station costs less than a gas station to install. Only the 230-mile version and the 300-mile version will be able to supercharge, however. “Suddenly, the whole ‘I can’t take road trips,’ and range anxiety and all these red herring arguments are essentially obliterated at that point,” Reyes told Autoblog. Sounds like the good kind of obliteration to us.


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Canberra's Westside Container Village is bound for Stromlo Forest Park, as the ACT government moves ahead with plans to develop West Basin.
The pop-up shipping container village has lain dormant since its last tenant shut its doors at the end of April.
But by the end of this year, the containers will be moved to the mountain-biking mecca to house a cafe and possibly a bike hire and maintenance business too.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said moving the village to Stromlo would be a temporary way to meet the need for retail in the park.
"Westside was designed to be able to be relocated to areas across the city where there is a temporary gap in space for retail and hospitality trade such as Stromlo Forest Park which attracts thousands of visitors every week," Mr Barr said.
"The Stromlo Forest Park masterplan includes retail facilities in the precinct, as well as playing fields and a gondola operating from the car park to the peak of Mount Stromlo.
"The government will be providing these investments over the coming years, with the Westside structure providing temporary facilities until these investments are made."
The village was built at West Basin in 2014 as a way to bring people to the area ahead of the City to the Lake development.
Land Development Agency head David Dawes said the government had spent about $1.9 million on building and operating the village.
National Capital Authority chief executive Malcolm Snow called the container village a "damp squib" in 2015 and last year they told the government it had to be dismantled by November 19.
Tenants at the village had until April 30 to vacate but most closed earlier.
Damn Fine Roasters was the last vendor at the site. Its owner also managed the bike hire business, bought by the ACT government in 2015, before both businesses shut down at the end of April.
The government will advertise for expressions of interest to operate businesses at the site.
Structural engineer Ken Murtagh pleaded with the government in March not to waste the structure and suggested country towns or race courses.
No other containers other than those being relocated will be able to set up shop there.
The containers that housed the Aviary Bar will be used for the cafe, although they will be configured on the ground rather than elevated like they are at West Basin.
Two of the containers in the tower structure are privately owned and will be returned to their owners during the deconstruction and removal process, Mr Barr said.
Government-owned containers not needed at Stromlo will be used by other parts of government for storage.
Meanwhile the government signalled it would forge ahead with its vision for West Basin in Tuesday's budget.
Mr Barr announced $38 million to reclaim 4.1 hectares of Lake Burley Griffin with an extra 500 metres of boardwalk running along the outside of it.


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Tempting discounts in the post-Christmas sales could have a negative impact on the economic situation of individuals and the country itself, a survey suggests.
While the City’s sentiments about 2008 are less than hopeful, consumer confidence in the economy and their own financial situation is still fairly strong, a Guardian/ICM poll found.
The Guardian suggested that a sales purchasing "frenzy" with little regard to possible downturns in the country’s economy, especially in the sub-prime sector, could pose serious problems.
Some 55 per cent of respondents said they were confident about both the wider economy and their own finances, only four per cent fewer than in the more stable economic environment of August 2006, the newspaper said.
It hypothesised that the effect of the credit crunch and interest rates had not yet impacted upon incomes sufficiently for it to be taken seriously.
Director of Thomas Charles debt counselling service James Falla suggested that people struggling with paying off credit cards and other debts could find a individual voluntary agreement a good option.


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Toyota celebrates 32 years of operations in the Philippines on a very hopeful note, highlighted by the recent launch of its new Toyota Vios. As the country looks to reopen the economy after going under quarantine in March, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) renews its partnership with the Filipino people in its pursuit of nation-building. Since TMP was founded 32 years ago, the country’s largest automaker has already sold 1.78 million Toyotas, highlighting its lead not just as a provider of transportation, but also as a catalyst to the Philippine economy.
In a message to all team members, TMP Chairman, Alfred V. Ty, expressed his confidence that better days lie ahead. “In our over 30-year history, we have faced many challenges but this is by far the most challenging we have seen. Of one thing I am sure: this will be our finest moment. We will draw on our collective strength to support the government in its recovery efforts and we will assure our customers and each one in our Toyota family that we will stand by each other every step of the way,” he said.
In previous years, TMP team members would normally begin the day with a general assembly to honor its achievements and achievers. Atsuhiro Okamoto, TMP President, was convinced that the prevailing health crisis would not get in the way of this year’s celebrations. He called for a virtual gathering of the whole company, very much in line with the emerging new work norms.
Okamoto shared his optimism about the fight against the COVID-19 virus. He pointed to the success of countries like New Zealand and Thailand in their efforts to contain infections. “Other countries have shown that this virus can be controlled. We will get there, too, if we continue our adherence to the necessary health protocols. We will win this battle,” he said. “I would like to thank the government and all our front line workers for their selfless efforts in this time of crisis. Let us work together and heal as one.”
In 2019, Toyota ended the year with its 18th consecutive triple crown – a testament to its overall popularity as well as that of its passenger car and commercial vehicle product offerings. Toyota has been the most preferred automotive brand of Filipinos in all but three of its 32-year history. From 1988 until June 2020, TMP has put 1.78 million Toyotas on Philippine roads. From only three initial models in its line-up, TMP now offers a selection of 78 models and variants, including such favorites as the Vios, Innova, Hilux, Fortuner, Wigo, Rush, Avanza, and Hiace. It has also introduced a growing number of hybrid electric vehicles and a whole range of luxury products under its Lexus brand.
Most importantly, TMP has been a vital part of the manufacturing and industrial landscape of the Philippines for over three decades. At the end of 2019, TMP provided livelihood to 55,000 Filipinos across its entire supply chain. It has made cumulative investments of P64 billion and paid P384 billion in cumulative taxes and duties. Annually, TMP generates exports of US$1 billion in Philippine-made local parts. Since it started its local production in 1989 until June 2020, TMP has produced almost 880,000 units.
As it marks 32 years in the Philippines, TMP embarks in earnest on its transition to a mobility company. Together with its 71 dealers nationwide, Toyota is transforming itself into a one-stop solution provider to meet the growing mobility needs of Filipinos. In line with its mission of providing the best vehicle purchase and ownership experience, TMP has expanded its services to include Toyota Financial Services, Toyota Insure Program, and Toyota Certified Used Vehicles.
In the area of new mobility, it has started offering Connected Auto Loans, Full-Service Leases, and a newly launched Kinto One lease package that is similar to a vehicle subscription program. TMP is also piloting On-Demand Shuttle services with the Department of Transportation and offering Fleet Management Services to select partners.
Additionally, Toyota has ramped up its program of digitalization to meet a growing and apparent shift in consumer behavior towards an online consumer experience. New initiatives such as the launch of a virtual Toyota showroom, a new MyToyotaPH app that puts maintenance of your Toyota vehicle on your mobile phone, and even an exciting new Supra GT Cup race experience in place of the well-followed Vios Cup.
Through all the years, TMP has never forgotten its responsibility to give back to society. During the quarantine, TMP donated 30 Vios vehicles to the Department of Health and Local Government of Santa Rosa. It also loaned a fleet of almost 50 vehicles for the use of essential workers. Dealers across the country worked with their respective communities to provide much-needed relief goods. TMP also engaged its engineers and skilled workers to produce 43,000 masks for distribution to essential workers, government units, and own team members.
All these are on top of Toyota’s continuing support to the environment through programs like its Coastal Clean-Up and Mangrove Planting Program; education through the TMP School of Technology; and well-being through its partnership with the Philippine Paralympic Committee and much more.
As TMP moves forward, it reaffirms its partnership with the Filipino people. “This crisis is surely a very challenging experience for everyone. But as a market leader, it is our responsibility to elevate customer service even in these most difficult times. We will redouble our efforts in helping to bring the Philippine economy back on track to a better tomorrow. Indeed, we are stronger together,” concluded Chairman Ty.


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The Magazine for Asian Investors
South Korea’s Ministry of Commerce for Industry and Energy said today that South Korean exports rose 18.2% year-on-year to $63.48 billion in March, reaching a record high. This was due to the strong demand for semiconductor and petrochemical chip products.
Exports, which account for about half of the South Korean economy, reached their highest level in March since data collection began in 1956, growing at a ten-digit rate for the thirteenth consecutive month.
Exports of semiconductors and petrochemical products reached new highs in March at $13.12 billion and $5.42 billion, respectively.
South Korea’s imports increased 27.9% year-on-year in March to $63.62 billion. This resulted in South Korea recording a trade deficit of $0.14 billion.


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Intel has announced that it will invest $20 billion in as many as eight chip factories in the United States on January 21. Our expectation is that this will become the largest silicon manufacturing location on the planet, said the company.
Intel's efforts are part of a larger push to reshore semiconductor manufacturing, which involves supply chain disruptions that.
Since July, Democrats and Republicans have been working toward a bill that would provide $52 billion in federal subsidies for the construction of new semiconductor factories in the United States. Ohio senators Rob Portman and Sherrod Brown, in a rare moment of bipartisan consensus, urged their congressional colleagues in to approve the subsidies quickly to alleviate an unprecedented shortage of semiconductors, exacerbated by foreign governments luring this sector abroad and US overreliance on overseas production.
US lawmakers are reportedly considering incorporating the measure into order to avoid a government shutdown.
But constructing a few high-tech semiconductor factories isn't enough to make America's chip supply independent from foreign manufacturing. For that, the US would have to reshore an, in addition to chip fabrication facilities, or fabs, like the ones Intel intends to build in Ohio.
So far, all Intel, Samsung, and TSMC have stated that their companies would build in the United States if the CHIPS Act were approved.
If you were only worried about supply security and manufacturing [semiconductors] locally so that automakers dont get cut off, then you should also look at outsourced assembly and tests, said Harvard Business School professor Willy Shih. You should be looking at all the materials that feed the foundries as well.
Chip factories are only part of the supply chain.
The most complicated and specialized part of semiconductor manufacturing is in multibillion-dollar chip manufacturing plants, like the ones Intel plans to build in Ohio. Dort, machines etch microscopic transistors into large, circular silicon wafers that might be a foot (.3 m) in diameter
The next step is sending those wafers off to testing and packaging companies. The machines examine each tiny transistor pattern to ensure they have been printed correctly. These transistors might measure as little as 10 millimeters across, roughly the width of a fingernail.
As a result, getting semiconductors ready for a car, a smartphone, or a washing machine depends on testing and packaging companies as well as high-tech enterprises.
In December, Intel announced its plans to build American chips in Malaysia.
Shih said: Alright, you're going to start your factory in Ohio, but youre still shipping chips to Vietnam or Malaysia for packaging, and then they've got to come back to the United States to be sold.
While it is important to fabricate chip wafers in US factories, Shih claims, citing the lack of confidence in the US.


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Long exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun results in a blistering sunburn that can last for an extended period of time depending upon the length of exposure. Sunscreen blocks UV light as well as protects the skin from skin cancer.
However, with most sunscreens, as soon as it is applied, it begins to break down and its strength to protect the skin begins to waver after a few hours.
Now, researchers at Binghamton University have developed a new coating made out of DNA that actually gets better at protecting skin from UV light the more a person is exposed to the sun. At the same time, the coating keeps skin hydrated.
"Ultraviolet (UV) light can actually damage DNA, and that's not good for the skin," says Guy German, assistant professor of biomedical engineering at Binghamton University. "We thought, let's flip it. What happens instead if we actually used DNA as a sacrificial layer? So instead of damaging DNA within the skin, we damage a layer on top of the skin."
The team developed thin and optically transparent crystalline DNA films and irradiated them with UV light. They discovered the more they exposed the film to UV light, the better the film got at absorbing it. Meaning, if translated to a topical cream or sunscreen, the longer a person is at the beach or outdoors, the better it gets at being a sunscreen, researchers say.
As a bonus, researchers found the DNA coating to be hygroscopic, meaning it can store and hold water much more than uncoated skin. When applied to human skin, the coating is capable of slowing water evaporation and keeping the skin hydrated for extended periods of time.
The next steps involve testing the material to see if it might be good as a wound covering for hostile environments where you could see the wound healing without removing the dressing or protecting the wound from the sun or even keeping the wound moist to promote faster healing rates.
"Not only do we think this might have applications for sunscreen and moisturizers directly, but if it's optically transparent and prevents tissue damage from the sun and it's good at keeping the skin hydrated, we think this might be potentially exploitable as a wound covering for extreme environments," German says.
The full research can be found in the journal Scientific Reports.


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CBS All Entries will re-register Paramount Plus early next year.
According to Diversity, The new name of the publishing business will be combined with another expansion of its proprietary programming efforts as well as its program catalog extracted from the recent merger of Viacom and CBS’s corporate archives.
“Paramount is a well-known and well-loved story by consumers around the world, and it is synonymous with quality, accuracy and world-class storytelling,” he said. Bob Bakish, President-CEO of ViacomCBS. “With Paramount Plus, we are excited to build a global brand in the broad-money segment that will extend the breadth and depth of ViacomCBS portfolio to provide an exceptional collection of content for everyone to enjoy.”
Among the new demonstrations in the works for the streaming platform is the restart The game, Mara Brock Akil comedy spinoff of Girlfriends which was most recently published on BET from 2011 to 2015. The head, a series of CIA dramas by Taylor Sheridan, and Recommended, a 10-episode limited edition based on Francis Ford Coppola Godliness.
In addition to the new programs, Paramount Plus will offer a library of shows from ViacomCBS networks, including BET, CBS, Comedy Central, MTV Nickelodeon and more. BET, Comedy Central and other editions will also produce original series for Paramount Plus.
“The response from customers in just the first few weeks of business expansion already presents a great opportunity ahead of us to bring these phenomenal ViacomCBS brands together in one premium streaming home under the new Paramount Plus brand,” he said. got Marc DeBevoise, ViacomCBS Digital CEO and CEO of ViacomCBS Digital, according to Diversity.


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Posted by Abe Sauer on November 14, 2014 07:08 PM
While the second Avengers film, Avengers: Age of Ultron, won't be in theaters for another six months, product placement is already paying off for the brands that have partnered with the upcoming Marvel film.
Samsung, for one, is poised to pull off the kind of product placement that could make it a future case study for the practice.
It pops up twice in the latest trailer (watch below) in a brand cameo that's already projected to be worth $2,903,309 according to Front Row Analytics, which uses a proprietary formula to put dollar values on product placements.Continue reading...
Posted by Dale Buss on November 6, 2014 09:22 AM
AB InBev announces launch of Oculto, a tequila-flavored beer, in U.S.
Tesla issues upbeat outlook while coping with short-term problems.
McDonald's gets ready for Super Bowl ad return by shuffling execs.
Amazon unveils Echo voice recognition hub.
H&M launches Alexander Wang collection worldwide.
Nike cuts ties with NFL star Adrian Peterson. Continue reading...
Posted by Dale Buss on November 5, 2014 10:14 AM
Republicans take US Senate and some key blue-state governorships in elections that even Democrats interpret as repudiation of President Obama, while higher minimum wage passes in four states and pot is legalized in three.
Coca-Cola has hit on its hands with Coke Life, researcher says.
Red Lobster reverts to lobster roots in highly-watched rebrand.
Warner Bros. lays off about 1,000 of its 8,000-member workforce.
American Eagle brings April Fool's prank to life (for a cause) with American Beagle collection. Continue reading...
Posted by Shirley Brady on November 4, 2014 07:14 PM
Lexus is promoting its RC 350 sport coupe and RC F performance coupe with a new campaign that "mirrors the story of the coupe itself—which was built from a blank canvas, unconstrained by existing designs and convention—and is centered on the theme of shattering limits."
Two new U.S. TV spots—"Face Off," starring actor Wes Bentley and directed by Sophie Muller and "From Road to Race Circuit" for the RC F—will be joined by a trio of spots targeting specific audience segments: "Flex Your Drive" for African Americans, "Shatter" for LGBT consumers and "Control Power," which targets Latinos.
Other elements include a custom Lexus RC Flipboard magazine curating content from Esquire and Bon Appétit; a branded content partnership with Engadget and AOL called Your Brain on the RC F that will demonstrate "the science and technology behind the adrenaline rush associated with driving the RC F."Continue reading...
Posted by Abe Sauer on October 31, 2014 01:45 PM
The Pitch: "Out of this World" for Nike Football
The Plot: Superhero Cristiano Ronaldo journeys to El Clásico on behalf of the Mercurial Superfly CR7 shoes.
The Verdict: The World Cup may be over but Ronaldo remains as popular as ever. Watch it, along with the latest in branded entertainment and content, below.Continue reading...
Posted by Sheila Shayon on October 30, 2014 10:33 AM
These days, more and more consumers are demanding excellent design that doesn't compromise on environmental integrity as the greening of consumption continues to evolve.
Now two leaders in the luxury realm—French multinational fashion conglomerate Kering and Toyota-owned automaker Lexus—are embracing their ability to act as sustainability advocates with a global platform.
Kering, whose stable of designer brands includes Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Alexander McQueen, Christopher Kane and Stella McCartney, has demonstrated its investment in up-and-coming sustainable fashion stewards through a new partnership with the London College of Fashion.
Together, the organizations have made a five-year commitment to encourage students to focus on using eco-friendly materials and methods. According to Vogue UK, two students each year whose collections embrace and elevate the ethical side of fashion design will receive an award of £31,500 as well as internships at Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen.Continue reading...
Posted by Mark J. Miller on October 23, 2014 01:26 PM
Brands have found all sorts of ways to spread their messages via Twitter, but Lexus is breaking the mold with its latest campaign.
In a branded entertainment move, Toyota's luxury automotive brand is set to release two short films by indie filmmakers on October 27 that are being produced by the Weinstein Company and explore the theme “Life is Amazing.”
The groundbreaking moment, though, happens one day earlier, when Lexus will become the first luxury brand to lock up its Twitter account to new followers, allowing those who are already following it to use a private link to watch the films before anyone else—and turning its Twitter fans into a VIP list for a private, virtual screening.Continue reading...
Posted by Dale Buss on October 22, 2014 09:14 AM
Lexus launches a virtual experience app.
Johnson & Johnson plans to begin testing Ebola vaccine in January, with 250K doses ready by May.
Yahoo's Marissa Mayer fires back at critics as company makes more money from search but still needs clearer strategy.
Microsoft officially lays Nokia name to rest and embraces Lumia for Windows phones.
Target unifies holiday strategy including free online shipping and promotes Taylor Swift's new album (below) as Walmart CMO also talks up holiday plans. Continue reading...


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Coinbase, also referred to as Coinbase Global Inc., is a company based in the United States and tends to function as a crypto exchange platform. In recent news, it announced that the San Francisco Coinbase Headquarters should be closed as the company wants to adopt a more telecommute and remote-based model. Furthermore, a transparency report had also been released by Coinbase for the 2nd half of last year.
Some would say that this was a response to the ongoing Covid-19 global pandemic, which has restricted travel and forced many to work from home. Coinbase had officially stated that it is vital that the company make it clear that one location is not necessarily more important than any other, and the work itself takes precedence. This comment had been directed towards the decentralized workforce.
As aforementioned, the change is not totally unexpected as various nations around the planet are making the shift to a remote and telecommute model as a response to the pandemic. This is also beneficial as it drastically reduces operation costs and employees have the opportunity to establish a more improved work-life balance routine.
Coinbase issues transparency report
As part of the abovementioned transparency report that had been released, Coinbase had outlined various government-issued requests regarding customer information during the latter half of 2020, which would cover the 1st of July till the 31st of December of last year. In this period, an overall 2,313 information requests had been received.
As for the report’s main takeaways, it had highlighted that 90% of the requests had been from the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States itself. Furthermore, it also indicated a 20% rise in requests hailing from France. Many of the requests had also been related to criminal activities, and only 4.3% had been concerning civil inquiries. Moreover, the United States made up a total of 1,197 requests, with Homeland Security and the FBI accounting for most of these.
Coinbase has always been vocal about its intentions to work alongside the various law and regulation agencies, and it has to be extra careful now due to the fact that it had gone public not too long ago.
Coinbase performing well after going public
Coinbase had been launched via Nasdaq and is actually the very 1st major crypto exchange that had decided to become public. This resulted in the COIN shares doing considerably well ever since the launch, and the company’s total revenue has risen substantially as well. The revenue for 2021’s 1st quarter had been $1.8 billion.
Brian Armstrong, the CEO of Coinbase, had stated that he believes Coinbase can establish a more robust model of business if his prediction of growing multiple various revenue streams for the foreseeable future comes to fruition, which would certainly help Coinbase even more.


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Have you noticed that Google (or rather its parent company Alphabet) has started designing and manufacturing ‘Made by Google’ branded hardware?
Things like the Pixel/2/XL smartphone, Home mini/max speakers, Pixel earbuds, Pixel Book Chromebook, VR Daydream headsets, Clip camera, and more. Made by Google (website here) is the new catchcry.
All it did before this was simply sign off on Nexus designs made by HTC and LG.
Some of the Google hardware is quite good, and some is, well, adequate.
Google seems content to run things up the flagpole and see if they fly. It is almost as if it does not care if a product sells as long as it has market presence. Analysists comment that Google can well afford to experiment and walk away from any hardware disasters it may have.
Made by Google has great ideas, but sometimes the execution falters
For example, Pixel 2/XL may have a great camera, but the phone hardware suffers in comparison to its competitors. Maybe version 3 will be the phone it really wanted to build.
The real reason it is investing in hardware is simple. It cannot afford for other companies like Amazon (Alexa) or Samsung (Bixby) to succeed in areas that it considers its turf – like Google Assistant.
It also must do everything it can to stop the spread of Apple’s very profitable iOS ecosystem. A limited version of Google Assistant is available for iOS, but it is no serious threat to Siri.
There are signs this grand ‘Made by Google’ experiment may be over and it is getting serious
Google announced that former Sony and Xbox executive Phil Harrison has joined its hardware unit. He reports to Rick Osterloh, Google senior vice president for hardware. The team designs Pixel smartphones, Chromebook laptops, Home smart speakers and Daydream virtual reality headsets.
Analysists are saying Phil is the answer to a longer-term vision that brings together all their scattered hardware efforts into something big.
Then there is the recent US$1.1 billion acquisition of HTC’s R&D division (that designed Pixel/2/XL) comprising transfer of over 2,000 engineers — that’s around 20% of HTC’s engineering team. Google will also receive a non-exclusive license for HTC’s intellectual property. It also gives Google a new engineering base in Taipei, Taiwan, where HTC is located.
Senior Vice President of Hardware, Rick Osterloh, said in the blog post, “As our hardware business enters its third year, we remain committed to building and investing for the long run. Today, we start digging in with our new teammates, guided by the mission to create radically helpful experiences for people around the world, by combining the best of Google’s AI, software and hardware.”
It has also announced the opening of an AI lab in Beijing, a manufacturing base in Shenzhen (the Silicon Valley of China), a patent licencing deal with Tencent and more Chinese investment.
Made by Google is a way to defend its turf
Most of what it does relates to revenue from search via desktop, mobile and now voice. In 2016 the bulk of its US$89.5 billion revenue came from its proprietary advertising service, Google AdWords and AdSense.
GadgetGuy’s take. Made by Google is a good thing for us all
This ‘Made by Google’ move is about both Google’s survival and in many ways a subtle threat that a bloody war will be waged with any interlopers on its turf.
Survival in that Google relies on thousands of third parties to use its software products as intended.
Android has now become the main mobile OS with about 90% of all handsets using it. iOS is not really a fierce competitor – it has about 10% and survives because Apple was first to market with the iPhone and do such a good job marketing its iOS ecosystem to those who can afford it.
No, the threat comes from the world’s largest smartphone maker Samsung that could use its Tizen OS and Bixby to cripple Android and Google Assistant’s dominance. That is unlikely to happen (app issues alone), and these, and other smartphone companies have learned to play well together.
Then there is the ambitious move to get Chrome into the ‘desktop’ world. Chrome will gain market share (it has less than 1% now), but Windows has 90% and macOS 10%. Here Cortana and Siri rule the voice assistant world and Google wants a piece of that pie too.
In fact, there is a Google app on Windows Store that allows basic Google Assistant access. But its somewhat limited as Microsoft has Cortana, Edge and Bing and gets significant advertising revenue from that too.
Thn there is a real threat that Amazon Alexa could grab serious market share.
I’m not a fan of Google’s business model – collection of personal data to build personal advertising profiles. But I suppose in this always connected world it is inevitable, and at least you can enable privacy features fairly easily.


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First-Growth price rises gathered pace in February and saw all of the Liv-ex indices post sizeable monthly gains. The Liv-ex Fine Wine 50 Index led the way, rising 4.4 per cent month on month to 437.21. The index has risen 9.0 per cent year to date and 60.0 per cent year on year.
The Liv-ex Claret Chip Index ended the month at 444.55 – up 3.9 per cent on January and 53.0 per cent year on year.
The industry's leading benchmark – the Liv-ex Fine Wine 100 Index – gained 3.3 per cent to 357.45. The index is up 6.3 per cent year to date and 41.1 per cent year on year.
Edging further ahead of Fine Wine 100, the Liv-ex Fine Wine Investables Index rose 3.8 per cent to 359.57 in the month to 28 February. The benchmark posted a yearly increase of 44.3 per cent.
The Liv-ex Fine Wine 500 Index moved up 3.1 per cent month on month and 24.6 per cent year on year to 269.23.


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Designer News is where the design community meets.
over 6 years ago from Vu Hoang Anh, CEO & Co-founder at Avocode
In my case, layers != complexity of design. I tend to use layer groups for various content states, way easier than managing multiple files.
Where the design community meets.
Designer News is a large, global community of people working or interested in design and technology.
© 2022 Designer News Ltd.


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Crust Pizza has appointed 303 MullenLowe as its creative partner and its media offering, Mediahub, as its media agency.
It's the latest win for Mediahub Australia, which has also added Laser Clinics Australia and Magellan to its client base since merging globally with 303 MullenLowe.
The agencies have launched their first work for the business, ‘Live Life on the Crust’, a campaign that positions Crust Pizza as a challenger to the traditional pizza flavours.
As part of the campaign, Three TV ads feature three of the pizza bar's unique flavours, each backed by a different theme - 'Prawn to be wild', 'Let's play devil's avocado' and 'Go your own wagyu'.
“From the outset, Mediahub and 303 MullenLowe have worked together to deliver a campaign that will not only engage our customers but impassion our franchise partners and their staff," Crust Pizza divisional marketing manager Zoe Jacovou says.
"‘Live life on the Crust’ is a positioning that feels true to the DNA of our brand, and our franchise partners have really embraced it."
“We have loved working with the Crust team in the lead up to today’s launch. It felt from the get-go like a partnership that had the potential to stretch beyond pure communications and impact the wider business strategy and customer journey, pulling in all areas of our agency," Mediahub MD Andrew Livingston says.
Mediahub's Australian expansion
Mediahub global president John Moore recently told AdNews that the Australian market was an ideal market for the company because of the strong similarities to the US.
"We looked at it around six years ago that if we had remained Mullen Media [in the US], we were probably, from a perception stand point and reality stand point, going to wither at the vines," Moore says.
"Where Mediahub Australia can position itself is exactly where Mediahub US positioned itself five years ago. This is as a media shop of challenger brands, brands that don't spend the most money in the category and brands that believe in creativity at the heart of media solutions."
Livingstone added that the Australian market size was not going to be a major factor for the agency, based on the typical client it would look to work with.
"We're never going to compete with P&G or probably Westpac. They are very big clients that would need a bigger organisational structure. Anything sub $20 million is where we are really interested in," he says.
Mediahub employs more than 450 people in 12 offices worldwide, including Los Angeles, New York, London, Singapore, Tokyo and Shanghai, and is affiliated with IPG Mediabrands for global media buying.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at firstname.lastname@example.org


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Nintendo Switch: The Kyoto hybrid has already sold 20 million consoles in Japan; Famitsu reveals which are the 5 best-selling games. Nintendo Switch is giving a lot to talk about in recent weeks. The leaks about the next model have not stopped, and neither have the sales of the current models of the console and its games. During the close of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021, the Japanese announced that they had sold 84.59 million machines worldwide. Now, Famitsu magazine has revealed that 20 million have been sold in Japanese territory alone.
A console is nothing without its games, and of course the Nintendo Switch has not been without best-selling titles. The launch of Animal Crossing: New Horizons broke all records at a time when most citizens were in lockdown due to the coronavirus epidemic. The success of this video game has occurred in all places, including his native Japan. Famitsu confirms that this cute title is the best-selling console in Japan. Below you can see the complete list:
The 5 best-selling Nintendo Switch games
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (6.78 million)
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (4.29 million)
Pokémon Sword and Shield (4.05 million)
Splatoon 2 (3.87 million)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (3.84 million)
The future of Nintendo Switch goes through some video games already announced. Mario Golf: Super Rush is the next in-house production project to be released, but on the horizon there are other long-awaited games that have not revealed their release date. Following the arrival of the HD version of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword in July, the question is when the sequel to Breath of the Wild will come out. Nor do we know anything about Bayonetta 3 or Metroid Prime 4, two titles that Nintendo keeps in the most absolute of secrets. Maybe during E3? We’ll check it out in a few weeks.


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TEA, S.D. (AP) -- Oversized moist towelettes that have been helping overseas soldiers freshen up in battlefields devoid of showers have embarked on a more celestial mission.
A shipment of specially compressed and dehydrated Klenz towels hitched a ride aboard Space Shuttle Discovery on Monday for use by U.S. astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
NASA found the South Dakota company while searching the Internet for U.S. hygiene towels similar to what the Russians were sending up to their cosmonauts, said Jessica Fichuk, a NASA project manager.
Astronauts can rip open the foil packages, pour four ounces of water onto the 2-foot-by-3-foot cloths and be ready to clean up within seconds.
"Just like when you are camping, these are what you use when you don't have access to a shower," Fichuk said.
The idea for the "Klenz XXL Shower in a Towel" came to Hartford, S.D.-native Troy Edberg in 1993 while he was a U.S. Marine on patrol in Somalia, where soldiers were struggling to find any available baby wipes to keep clean.
"We'd be out for 10 days without a shower," Edberg said. "We'd have like a wet wipe or something, a little one."
Edberg figured it'd make more sense to have one big towel instead of having to burn through 80 smaller ones, but he didn't pursue the idea until 2004 when he pitched it to Vince McCormick, owner of the Hartford, S.D., health and fitness center where he worked out.
McCormick loved the idea, but it took nearly four years to bring the product to the market.
Soldiers told McCormick they wanted something big enough to clean their backs and whole bodies, and they didn't want to be left smelling like a baby or feeling sticky or dry.
"We've got guys out in the desert and stuff," McCormick said. "The last thing we need to do is put alcohol in it and dry them out."
McCormick found an environmentally friendly, biodegradable material made of grass and wood called HydroKnit, and he settled on a fragrance-free, residue-free cleaning solution with a common anti-bacterial agent and aloe.
Finding a company to make the towels proved to be a greater challenge.
"We had to basically take a tablecloth manufacturer and a wet wipe manufacturer and kind of combine them," McCormick said.
Edberg and McCormick then brought in another partner, Dollar Loan Center owner Keith Bergh, and the team spent a year-and-a-half test marketing the 2-foot-by-4-foot wet towels, sending them to 30 different countries and handing them out to riders at the Sturgis motorcycle rally.
"We sent it to Afghanistan," McCormick said. "We sent it to Iraq, South America, Alaska."
McCormick then began the paperwork to get a contract with the U.S. General Services Administration, which arranges sales from the private sector to government organizations and the military. He also decided to get them in the field sooner by donating $50,000 worth of Klenz Towels to Operation USO Care Package.
The gamble paid off, as less than a half year later Klenz became partners with the USO and now serves as its hygiene product provider. Some 500,000 of the towels have since found their way into soldiers' hands.
Klenz's retail version of its towels, for use in camping, fishing, hunting, hiking and biking, sell for $3.78 each on the company's Web site, or about $104 for a case of 48. People can also send a 12-pack to an overseas soldier for $30.
Klenz did $38,000 in sales in 2008 and $300,000 in 2009. McCormick said he is hoping to reach $1.2 million this year as it increases its retail sales and works to break into the professional, college and high school sports markets.
McCormick said his ultimate goal is to produce the towels in a local manufacturing plant that hires disabled veterans.


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About GPU Ventures
The firm is the venture capital unit of Nvidia, a maker of graphics processors. It identifies, partners with, and invests in early stage companies that create visual and other computing applications. The firm is looking to increase investments in start-ups that promote the use of graphics processors into other applications such as imaging and computing.
GPU Ventures Headquarter Location
2701 San Tomas Expressway
Santa Clara, California, 95050,
Latest GPU Ventures News
Dec 12, 2016
Whatsapp Google Mail Print Reddit Stumbleupon Subscribe Pinterest Delicious Buffer American technology firm NVIDIA has launched the Nvidia Inception programme in India for country’s budding innovation ecosystem in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Designed as a virtual incubator program, Inception aims to support startups with revolutionary ideas in AI. Members will receive a custom set of benefits, from hardware grants and marketing support to training with deep learning experts. Notably, NVIDIA is the world’s leading company working in AI computing and deep learning, and NVIDIA invests in next-gen AI leaders through its GPU Ventures program, and every Inception applicant is submitted for consideration. Interested startups can apply here . The Inception Programme was launched in India at the inaugural Nvidia Emerging Companies Summit India, part of the GPU Technology Conference (GTCx), a platform for the brightest minds and greatest ideas in GPU computing. Advertisement The momentum around AI among Indian innovators is so significant that, at launch, the Inception Programme already has close to 100 Indian startups as members. Vishal Dhupar, Managing Director – South Asia, Nvidia said, “Artificial Intelligence has gone from science fiction to reality thanks to a new computing model: graphics processing unit (GPU)-accelerated deep learning. We believe the next generation of breakthroughs in technology and business will be driven by the AI startup community. Young India’s aspirations, ideas and potential are global in scale, and we are excited to amplify the imagination and intelligence of the country’s brightest minds through the Inception Programmw and the Emerging Companies Summit.” Inception provides innovative GPU startups with key support to help grow their businesses and bring revolutionary products to market faster. Custom benefits include access to the latest NVIDIA deep learning technologies, deep learning expertise, Nvidia’s global network, technical training and funding. [Top Image – Facebook.com/NVIDIA]