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Amidst Adidas drama and apparel success, what are the next steps for Ye in building Yeezy shoes into a billion-dollar brand?
As fans flocked to the Adidas Confirmed App in hopes of hitting on a restock and the return of the “Turtle Dove” Yeezy Boost 350, Ye took to another app, Instagram, to air his grievances with both the holiday and his corporate partner in Herzog.
In a direct message to Complex made public across social media, Ye publicly insisted that Adidas “made up the Yeezy Day idea” without his approval. Around the same time that the message was making its rounds across the web, sneakerheads around the world were taking Ls on the Confirmed App, feeling let down by the anticipated shopping celebration itself.
Yeezy Day, which took place on Aug. 2 this year and in each one since 2019 with no official acknowledgment of its ultimately unofficial nature, came on the heels of Ye blasting the brand for allegedly “knocking off” his super-popular sandal style. In recent months, Ye has gone to Instagram to broadcast his displeasure with, yes, certain dating tendencies related to his family, but also to share his desires to sit down with the CEO of Gap. In the anti-Adidas message, West accused The Three Stripes of taking talent from his Yeezy team, lying about the ability to produce more Yeezy Slides, and interfering with the production of Yeezy Gap by Balenciaga footwear.
Perhaps most notably, he insisted that Yeezy product accounts for 68% of Adidas’ online sales.
Whether working with Nike at the end of his tenure in Beaverton or complaining publicly about his record contracts, West has been bold in his approach to airing personal displeasure with corporate partners. Whether one agrees or disagrees with this communication style is a personal opinion, but what does prove to be true is that Ye has a knack for getting out of a deal he dislikes and ending up with one he does.
So, what does the future of Yeezy shoes look like? Who will be along for the ride with Mr. West, and where?
By reading the tea leaves and looking at the industry, let’s explore go through the most viable options.
In 2016, Kanye West and Adidas announced a long-term relationship. The press release from the company called it “the most significant partnership ever created between a non-athlete and an athletic brand.” It was said to include the opening or rebranding of retail stores specific to YEEZY, something that is still yet to materialize.
At the time, the deal was estimated to be worth $10 million, though it’s likely much more than that considering the billion-dollar success of the brand. When considering the expectations internally at Adidas surrounding the signing of Kanye in 2013 and previous pairings with artists and third-party designers, it quickly became clear what Ye and Adi could accomplish together was far more than what any prior partnership could have forecast.
“I think people look at that business today and think that was what it was intended to be,” former Yeezy GM Jon Wexler told Boardroom in May 2022. “I think that’s what Kanye intended it to be. I think I intended it to be that, but I’m not sure that was the plan up front. Those businesses were typically thought of as three to four SKUs, small product collaborations. Move in, move out, and transactionally roll through whoever is the shiniest person or brand is.”
With the 2016 extension, Ye currently remains under contract with Adidas until 2026. Naturally, at the time of signing, he was elated with the new deal and his vision coming to life — “This partnership illustrates that anyone with a dream can dream without limitations,” West said at the time — but in recent years, both Eric Liedtke, then an Adidas board member and exec, and Wexler, the person responsible for bringing Ye to Adidas and eventually general manager of the Yeezy brand, have both parted ways with the Three Stripes. And yes, Yeezy x Adidas has ballooned into a billion-dollar business since the re-signing in ’16, but Ye hasn’t been shy about showing his public displeasure for Adidas CEO Kasper Rorsted.
“To Kasper I’m not standing for this blatant copying no more,” West wrote verbatim on Instagram in June 2022. “To all sneaker culture. To every ball player rapper or even if you work at the store. This is for everyone who wants to express themselves but feel they can’t cause they’ll loose their contract or be called crazy.”
The remarks referred to Ye’s issue with the $55 Adidas Adilette sandal that shares similar design language to that of the $70 Yeezy Slide. While it’s not uncommon for top talent at a company — whether designer, artist, or athlete — to lend a halo effect of influence on products of wider ability or price point, the implication of an imitation did not register with Kanye as flattery.
Nor does it appear to positively affect his financials.
“These shoes represent the disrespect that people in power have to the talent. This shoe is a fake Yeezy made by Adidas themselves I’m not talking to DC about this either. Kasper come talk to me Happy Monday,” Ye said.
Whether or not West could lose his Adidas contract due to an Instagram caption calling out the company’s CEO is uncertain, but more so unlikely considering Yeezy is said to make up 68% of Adidas’ online sales. While the post has since been deleted (along with the majority of uploads on Ye’s feed), Rorsted did respond publicly to Ye when prompted by CNBC on-air in August 2022.
In the segment, Rorsted assured that Adidas has “a fantastic relationship” with Ye, calling him “probably the most important” partner they’ve ever had, doubling down that Ye communicates with the brand “almost weekly.”
On the same day of the interview, Aug. 4, the brand published its Q2 2022 report. In the document, the terms “Yeezy,” “Ye,” or “Kanye” were nowhere to be found.
(To be fair neither was “Boost.”)
While West may be at odds with Adidas, he holds a significant amount of leverage considering the sheer volume of sales Yeezy accounts for. Whether or not the brand can extrapolate Ye’s cool cachet to inline products or other categories appears to be a sensitive subject for Kanye, or one that would at least come at a price — if West was able to earn an extension only one year into getting products onto the market back in 2016, perhaps he could renegotiate now.
On the other hand, perhaps he could consider a different partner entirely.
In sportswear, it is not uncommon for talent to switch companies. On the endorser end, household names such as Andre Agassi, Kobe Bryant, Serena Williams, Jay-Z, and countless others have adjusted their allegiance over the course of their career to lend their likeness to competitor brands. On the backend, designers and execs often cross over to other entities in search of sustained success.
Ye, meanwhile, occupies a unique space in which he is at once the exec, the designer, and the endorser.
Already, West has gone from Nike to Adidas in a move that absolutely shook up the entire footwear and apparel industry; not only did Kanye’s change of brands send a surge of energy to The Three Stripes, but it also forced the Swoosh’s hand to sign on a slew of Ye’s fashionable friends like Don C, Jerry Lorenzo, Virgil Abloh, and Drake.
While West met with an array of footwear companies when considering his next move back in 2013, Adidas proved best suited to express his ideas and meet his demands at that time.
It’s possible that in 2022, another suitor could be better equipped.
When considering the world of sportswear, there are few places to which Kanye could move vertically from either a cool cachet or market share perspective. After the public trouncing of Mark Parker and Nike during the Yeezus Tour in 2013 and the competitive qualities that make that brand what it is, it’s incredibly unlikely that the Swoosh would ever want to work with West again.
Around the industry, it’s unclear what company would provide a better home for the Yeezy brand than Adidas. Reebok, which was recently acquired by Authentic Brand Group, is not likely to be in a position to sign a talent as downright expensive as West, nor do they appear focused on selling shoes that start at retail prices upwards of $200. Puma proves to be a potential prospect considering the two parties met years ago when West was first considering greener pastures, but between the big brother Jay Z’s affiliation with the brand and the brotherly brooding between Rudolf and Adi Dassler that respectively birthed Puma and Adidas, the narratives run deep.
However, West previously claimed that Puma asked how could they “control him” back in 2013.
Where sportswear is concerned, few other partners seem plausible. Under Armour has endured botched attempts at working with runway designers or hip-hop artists in the past, while running brands like New Balance, On, and HOKA seem to be nicely hitting their stride. For years, West has adored the designs of Vans, often wearing them or referencing them in lyrics when squabbling with Adidas, but from a tech and finance standpoint, they make little sense as a partner.
There’s always a world in which West switches lanes into high fashion — consider his tight friendship with Demna Gvasalia of Balenciaga — or leans on incumbent apparel partner GAP to distribute footwear. That said, a high fashion partner would not provide the comprehensive reach of Adidas, while a fast-fashion partner cannot promise the scale of production.
In the Instagram post about the Adilette sandals in which West compared himself to Mel Gibson in Braveheart, he also mentioned the Mamba Spirit of Kobe. Famously, Bryant broke his Adidas contract in 2002 and later signed with Nike. Perhaps more interestingly, Kobe was said to have considered leaving Nike prior to passing to start his own footwear company.
This may be the path Ye is best prepared to pave.
When Kanye West released the song “FACTS” at the tail end of 2015 as a victory lap for his first year at Adidas, he attested that “all he needed was the infrastructure.” Created in 1949 and estimated to be worth $32.9 billion today, Adidas has all the infrastructure in the world thanks to distribution in both hemispheres and factories that have been running for decades.
In 2013, when West left Nike for Adidas, the idea of doing it all on his own was often raised by interviewers and just as often met with distress owing to the fact that West did try to start his own fashion labels numerous times in the ’00s and early ’10s only to hit roadblocks and rack up significant debts.
“You need proper production to bring something of certain value,” Ye told Sway Calloway in 2013. “If I’m starting small, I won’t be able to get the best pricing, I’m going to be losing money to the point where I can’t afford it. I went $13 million in debt working on my own clothing line.”
Now a billion-dollar man with veteran designers that work directly for his Donda brand rather than Adidas, Ye possess the financial capital and creative capital to try his hand at footwear alone like never before. While notorious for delayed shipments, scrapped samples, and other logistical issues that cost tons of money and create a multitude of issues, it’s uncertain whether lacking the guardrail of a partner’s standards would allow the Yeezy brand to build itself up without friction or fracture, free of the traditional constraints.
What is almost certain is that Ye no longer need Adidas to make his products appear any cooler or any more capable. After all, since the start, most Adidas Yeezys have had little to no Three Stripes branding. Furthermore, the trademark Boost technology that amplified early models has been somewhat filtered out of recent styles. And of all the Yeezy sneakers currently on the market, several new designs including the infamous Foam RNR, Yeezy 700 V3, Yeezy 450, Yeezy Knit RNR, and Yeezy Slide are not reliant on Adidas’ signature Boost technology.
Furthermore, it appears West holds the keys when it comes to his likeness.
As Billboard notes, Ye retains 100% ownership of his brand and has full creative control over all Yeezy products released. If Kanye’s claims about Yeezy Day, shoe colors, and shoe nicknames are valid, this would go against said agreement with regards to creative control and execution.
In March 2021, Bloomberg reported the Yeezy shoes empire to be valued between $3.2 billion to $4.7 billion when including footwear and apparel. They went on to detail that Yeezy sales grew 31% to nearly $1.7 billion in annual revenue in 2020 alone, with Kanye netting $191 million in royalties. While he would lose all those annual royalties if he were to leave Adidas and go independent, he would have the opportunity to take on all the risk, but all the earnings as well.
If he needed to free up any additional capital to fund it, Valentiem Group valued his music catalog at $110.5 million in 2020, a number that’s likely only gone up. If West were to sell his back catalogs like an increasing number of his peers, the focus on fashion from the dual standpoint of economics and sheer attention could certainly sharpen.
No longer in debt, it’s quite possible West would be best served or happiest being no longer in contract.
In July 2022, Ye filed for a YZYSPLY trademark intended to be used to open retail stores. In a market that sees big companies like Nike moving closer and closer to direct-to-consumer models, it seems unlikely that the multi-hyphenate who’s long operated as his own brand wouldn’t want to do the same.
With this in mind, perhaps it will dawn on us at some point over the next few years that Yeezy Day has become every day.


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AKA's 'The Braai Show' gets candid with popular Mzansi artists
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AKA is determined to keep the content on his newly released virtual TV channel fresh and creative.
He recently let his followers and fans in on a new segment called "The Braai Show" that will feature on the app from Wednesday, June 10.
Judging by the teaser video, it's going to be lit.
In the minute long video we get to see some of South Africa's popular entertainers including DJ Tira, Moozlie and Sbudaroc chatting to AKA. Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula also features in the show.
Gathering from the teaser, AKA is going to have candid conversations with industry giants while preparing food over the braai in the garden or in the kitchen.
And it looks like they aren't going to hold anything back.
In the video he said: "We are going to go behind the scenes and lift the mask on people that you thought you knew, but really really didn't".
Since the launch of the channel, AKA TV has garnered major success and AKA continues to share exclusive content on his life and musical journey.
The app, which houses the channel, launched on Friday, May 8 and is available for download from both the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
The “Jika” hitmaker took to his Instagram page to share the upcoming show trailer with the caption: "THE BRAAI SHOW ON #AKATV
. Are you ready?!?! WORLD PREMIERE THIS WEDNESDAY ON #AKATV."
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A post shared by AKA(@akaworldwide) on Jun 7, 2020 at 5:58am PDT

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text: The Future Fund managing partner Gary Black and Barron’s senior special writer Allen Root discuss how Elon Musk’s Twitter turmoil is negatively impacting Tesla stock on ‘The Claman Countdown.’ Billionaire Elon Musk said on Thursday he will put Tesla share sales on hold for about two years. Musk made the comment while speaking in a Twitter Spaces audio chat. He also commented on the economy saying he foresees a “serious recession” in 2023 and demand for big-ticket items will be lower. His comments came after a Tesla stock sell-off deepened on Thursday over worries about softening demand for electric cars and Musk’s distraction with Twitter and his stock sales. TESLA SLASHES PRICES BY $7,500 IN END OF YEAR SALE Tesla CEO Elon Musk alongside the electric automaker’s logo. (Getty Images/AP / Getty Images)”I won’t sell stock until I don’t know probably two years from now. Definitely not next year under any circumstances and probably not the year thereafter,” Musk said. Shares of Tesla rose 3% to $129.23 in after-hours trading. Tesla stock plunged 9%, after Tesla started to offer deep, $7,500 discounts to US consumers, fueling investor concerns about softening demand as the economy slows. A Tesla Model 3 is seen in a showroom in Los Angeles, California. (REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson / Reuters Photos) Musk has previously made promises about not selling Tesla stock before subsequently selling it. Last week, the Tesla chief executive sold 22 million shares worth $3.58 billion in the electric-vehicle maker, according to a regulatory filing.ELON MUSK SAYS HE’LL STEP DOWN AS TWITTER CEO WHEN HE FINDS SOMEONE ‘FOOLISH ENOUGH TO TAKE THE JOB’ Musk has sold over $40 billion worth of shares in the past year, surrounded around his acquisition of Twitter. Elon Musk’s Twitter account is displayed on the screen of an iPhone in front of the homepage of the Twitter website. (Chesnot/Getty Images / Getty Images)The Tesla CEO went on a selling spree in April as he was lining up financing for his $44 billion purchase of Twitter, which he had attempted to retreat from since July.Ticker Security Last Change Change % TSLA TESLA INC. 125.35 -12.22 -8.88% Musk sold another 7.92 million shares in August, months after announcing he wasn’t going to sell any more shares.Musk ultimately completed the Twitter purchase in October.CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESSIn the days following the takeover, the billionaire sold almost $4 billion in Tesla stock. Tesla shares have been down roughly 68% year-to-date. Reuters contributed to this report.


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Company Reaches Milestone by Providing Cardholder Control to Over 1000 Banks and Credit Unions, 7 Out of Top 10 Card Processors
SAN JOSE, CA – October 13, 2016 – Ondot Systems today announced that over 1000 banks and credit unions across the world now offer consumer-driven payment card controls and alerts solutions powered by its Mobile Card Services platform. With 7 of the top 10 card processors offering Ondot’s solution with a cumulative coverage of over 15,000 card issuers and 250 million cards globally, Ondot has become the de facto standard for consumer driven card controls. Ondot’s customers have reduced fraud costs by as much as 40% and increased usage of their payment cards by over 23%.
Card Issuers that offer Ondot empower consumers to manage and control their credit, debit, and pre-paid cards.
The solution is delivered to consumers either as a card issuer branded stand-alone application, or integrated into the issuer’s existing mobile/online banking and digital wallet applications.
“Ondot is at the confluence of the payment and mobile channels, thereby bringing the power of the user’s choice, user’s location, and real-time user interaction to the payment authorization stream,” said Rachna Ahlawat, Executive Vice President of Ondot Systems. “Consumers feel safe. Card issuers lower fraud, increase card usage, and drive contextual engagement. What’s not to like when everybody benefits?”
The need to provide consumers with transaction visibility is being recognized industry-wide. Visa and Mastercard have issued mandates requiring card issuers to support the capability for cardholders to sign up for transaction alerts. Effective October 14, 2016, for Visa, and April 21, 2017, for Mastercard, every U.S.- based card issuer must give cardholders the option to register for some basic alerts. With Ondot, card issuers can meet and leapfrog the mandate requirements while offering their own branded solution that gives consumers the confidence of being in control, and drives instant engagement at point of purchase.
For more information, visit us online at www.ondotsystems.com or email us at firstname.lastname@example.org
About Ondot Systems
Ondot Systems provides mobile payment card control services that decreases fraud and increases card usage for financial institutions worldwide. The white-labeled solution allows cardholders to be in control of when, where, and how their credit and debit cards can be used through their phone. Seven of the top ten card processors in the United States and 1000 financial institutions worldwide trust Ondot Systems to put fraud prevention in the hands of their cardholders.


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A woman has been accused of trying to upstage her new daughter-in-law by wearing a white fishtail gown to her son's wedding.
The mother of the groom certainly appeared to steal the show after photographs from the wedding were shared on social media.
She is pictured posing with bridesmaids wearing a strapless, lacy white fishtail gown in a way that makes it look like she is the bride.
It all comes down to generally accepted etiquette that it is a serious faux pas for anyone other than the bride to wear a white dress when invited to share in someone's special day, writes the Mirror Online.
The caption on the photograph posted online said: “You guys, this is my husband’s aunt at her son’s wedding. Lady, TF are you doing?!”
Images were shared of her on the That’s It, I’m Wedding Shaming Facebook group, and showed the bride wearing a remarkably similar gown herself.
Other Facebook users reacted with outrage at the dress choice of the mother of the groom.
Numerous people were quick to comment how wrong it was.
One wrote: “What a pathetic attention seeker.”
Another added: “Weeeeirdoooooo.”
A third said: “Yikes. I like it more than the bride’s dress."
While a user agreed, saying: “I'd be refusing to pose with her.”
The poster didn’t reveal the bride’s reaction when she saw the extremely bold dress, but one can imagine she wasn’t best pleased.


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The ECHA and CEFIC signed a joint statement on June 14 in Helsinki that aims at closer cooperation in the implementation of REACH. In concrete terms, the risks of critical substances and groups of substances are to be estimated on a more scientific basis in the future while communication along the supply chain is also improved.
The ECHA promises to:
- Inform industry when specific substances or groups of substances are difficult to evaluate and when cooperation among experts from both sides would help reach a common solution more quickly
- Simplify such cooperation among experts, particularly before any planned regulatory measures
- Inform companies how the quality of registration dossiers can be improved continually.
Represented by CEFIC, industry promises to:
- Increase promotion of continuous and targeted improvement in the compliance, quality, and understanding of registration dossiers
- Inform the ECHA when a substance or group of substances is expected to create scientific or technical challenges
- Organize meetings of scientific and technical experts from industry to discuss any critical issues
In a joint press release, ECHA President Björn Hansen once again stressed the importance of the agreement, saying “The EU Commission has asked us in their recent report to work with industry to increase efficiencies in implementing REACH and this is a step in doing so.” Marco Mensink, General Director of CEFIC was equally satisfied, saying that close cooperation is the right step so that all REACH stakeholders can benefit along with industry and the ECHA.
You can maintain the marketability of your products by updating your dossiers regularly. If you have any questions, we are pleased to offer you support at firstname.lastname@example.org.


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UK's AJAX AFV undergoes further testing
Experts in Marine Robotics Commented on UK’s Ban on Submersibles Exports to Russia
The British government adopted an amendment to the export control act for dual-use products. The document coming into force on August 14, 2019 imposes a ban on export of submersible vehicles and related software and technology to Russia. This is due to Russia’s attempts to develop detection capabilities of underwater cable systems, connection to and destruction of them. Being interviewed by Mil.Press Today, some Russian industry experts gave their opinion on the event.
As for Aleksey Shmatkov, CTO at Marine Geo Service that commercially produces light remotely operated vehicles (ROV), the Britain’s ban is not critical, and the Southeast Asian suppliers will nick in the niche.
"Looking at the schedule, they banned every single thing. I guess lead ballast is the only stuff we can buy now. But I don’t think the Brits dominate the market. Other suppliers will easily hold the fort. Well, Americans make the same things, or Norwegians. Wait, there are sanctions, too. Not a big deal, there’s Southeast Asia like Singapore, Korea or China. Indeed, China’s got very good positions. Then, there’s a British company SMD [Soil Machine Dynamics Ltd – editor’s remark], that makes underwater robots. It is owned by a Chinese company CRRC. Really, the Chinamen will make anything, if needed", said the expert.
Vladislav Zanin, an official representative of Oceanos, a company designing marine robots and underwater hardware, told Mil.Press Today that the export ban would mostly affect the already bought British equipment.
As for the expert, Russia currently operates fairly large number of British ROVs like Falcon and Tiger by Saab Seaeye or Comanche by Sub-Atlantic. Operators of these systems will face some problems during repair, as it will be impossible to order spare parts from the manufacturer any more.
There are two ways out of this problem: either to produce components in Russia through reverse engineering or to find other suppliers. In the first case, the operators bear huge running costs, but acquire expertise in the area of such components though.
Choice of other suppliers is not critical either, says Vladislav Zanin. The Southeast Asian manufacturers step forward again.
"All British submersibles delivered to Russia had sonars made by the UK company Tritech. Azimuth, side-scan, sector-scan sonars, depth recorders, altimeters", said the expert. "As soon as the sanctions caused problems with exports to Russia, the similar sources from South Korea were instantly involved. Their products have comparable features, both technical and financial".
Vladislav Zanin added that the Russian manufacturers were not the least at the sector.
"The market of components for marine robotics is quietly growing, and the Russian one is not an exception. There is an offer in all sensitive technologies. In Oceanos, we’re working on the wireless optical communication systems, which are globally unique. Except us, such technology is available only to British company Sonardyne. In Russia, there are manufacturers of high-quality sonars. Our country can also offer excellent solutions in the area of strapdown inertial navigation systems".
Aleksey Toropkov, director for development at GyroLab told Mil.Press Today about the underwater navigation of unmanned submersibles. The company designs the strapdown inertial navigation systems, including those for underwater drones. As for Toropkov, the UK is little known among the experts in submersible navigation systems.
"The high precision inertial technologies based on closed-loop optical fiber and ring-laser gyros are only available to the US, France, China and Russia. This kind of systems is exactly what is used for standalone navigation of undersea drones. I’ve never heard of any achievements of the Great Britain in such projects", said the expert.
Experts emphasize that in case of demand for corresponding technologies, Russian market can successfully develop.
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Theo Holroyd loves nothing more than coding. But being blind stopped him until he got his hands on some new technology. Innovative pods hook together to trigger commands and create computer programs.
Two students from MVJ College of Engineering have developed a device called ‘bBook’ that converts text into braille in real time. Once a person with a visual impairment places the device over the text, it uses the six pins on its surface to convert the text.
At this year’s CES, there was a variety of tech options designed to offset your electronic addiction, so can new tech devices save us from our tech addictions?
Dr Ramasamy Kim, head of retina services at an eye hospital in southern India, and his team at the Aravind eye hospital in Madurai have examined about 15,000 images from across the country showing the interior surface of the eyeball, known as the fundus.
The producers of Russia’s state-of-the-art Ratnik infantry gear have released a civilian version of its combat smart glasses just for students.
“In fact, it’s a personal monitor, which can be used by both students and their teachers to display the needed data,” those behind the military eyewear said as they unveiled the gadget at an expo in Moscow.
A new line of inclusive Veggie shaped cooking utensils, including a carrot spoon, celery spatula and eggplant whisk also incorporate braille to empower the blind and visually impaired to quickly identify each kitchen tool.
Last month at CES19 Google demonstrated a new interpreter function of the Google Assistant that lets you speak one language to the device and have it translate what you said into another. Now Google’s support page has revealed that the interpreter function is rolling out to Google Home and smart display devices, as reported by Android Police.
The Android Accessibility team announced the Live Transcribe app for deaf and hard-of-hearing users. The app is currently being tested on the Play Store and will be pushed to all Pixel 3 users in the next update.
First mentioned at Google I/O 2018, Sound Amplifier works like a hearing aid, boosting the volume of conversations happening around you. In situations with a lot of ambient noise, the app can help you focus on quiet sounds happening near you, like someone’s voice. The level of amplification is adjustable through sliders, and the feature can be enabled through the accessibility menu on your phone.
The Canadian Federation of the Blind (CFB) is cautioning the public after nationwide reports of alleged grocery store scams involving people posing as non-profit officials to collect donations.


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Google fined $2.7 billion by E.U. in anti-trust ruling
December 11, 2018 / Proforma LBP Marketing Concepts
Google has been fined a record $2.7 billion for a breach of E.U. anti-trust rules. The search giant was charged with giving “illegal advantages” to another Google product within search results in a case that started more than seven years ago. The case relates specifically to Google Shopping, Google’s increasingly profitable shopping comparison engine. This fine dwarfs the previous record fine for the abuse of a monopoly doled out to Intel in 2009. The E.U. commission arrived at the figure by taking a percentage of Google’s revenue from its Shopping product across the 13 European countries in question since 2008. Should Google fail to comply with the terms set by the E.U. within 90 days, they will be fined 5 percent of the daily turnover of the parent company, Alphabet.


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WESTON, FL – Feb. 4, 2009 – Terranova Corporation is proud to announce that DHL Global Mail, the second largest mail service provider in the U.S., has signed an office lease at Weston Corporate Centre (top right photo) in Weston, Fla., where the international company will establish its North American headquarters.
Terranova senior commercial associate Gordon Messinger represented the landlord in the 20,749 square foot transaction, valued at over $3.2 million. Weston Corporate Centre is located at 2700 South Commerce Parkway in Weston’s business district.
“DHL’s commitment underlines the prestige of this office property, considering that right now it is a tenants’ market for office space,” Messinger said. “DHL could have had its pick, and it chose Weston Corporate Centre because of its many strengths.”
DHL Global Mail is the second largest mail service provider on the U.S. market after the United States Postal Service.
Karen LaFleur, Marketing/PR Manager, Terranova Corp., 305 779 8908, firstname.lastname@example.org


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Lynda Drake and her daughter Erin Riddle didn’t start out to create an eco-friendly business.
Lynda has been sewing most of her life so it was natural to sew some burp cloths when Erin gave birth to the first granddaughter Rylynn.
Erin, an entrepreneur by nature, wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, so she and Lynda decided the burp cloths, blankets and bibs could be a good online retail business that Erin could run from home. Lynda continues her full-time work as a property administrator.
Baby U R Precious — BURP for short — was born in March 2008 in Mission Viejo. About half their products were made of bamboo fabric.
If you’ve never seen or felt this fabric, it has luxurious softness at a lower price than silk or cashmere. The bamboo plant is a grass that can grow a yard or more a day and can be cut and regrown several times a year, so environmentalists say it makes an eco-friendly fabric.
“Organic bamboo fabric has benefits such as natural antibacterial and antifungal, making it suitable for those who are sensitive to allergens,” Erin says. “It’s three times more absorbent than cotton.”
Erin sought business counseling at the Orange County Institute for Women Entrepreneurs in Santa Ana.
“Thank goodness for IWE,” Erin says. “They provided focus groups of women who said people who want organic products don’t want a company that goes half way. They will support you only if you are 100% organic.”
Three burp cloths sell for $29, bibs are $14, three wash cloths are $18 and blankets are $44.
“We’re strictly an online boutique now, but we’ve just started working with a wholesaler about getting our products into stores,” Erin says.
The partners also run a nonprofit BURP Ministry that brings together volunteer seamstresses who have sewn burp cloths for Marine wives at Camp Pendleton; Casa Teresa, an Orange home for homeless pregnant women; and GoGo Grandmothers, women in Malawi, Africa, who take care of orphans.
Other entrepreneur stories…


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Trend forecaster Gerald Celente, of the Trends Research Institute, in his latest Trend Alert to subscribers, says that media presstitutes continue to sell Americans and the rest of the world the big lie of recovery.
It’s nothing more than a cover-up. We never exited the recession that started in 2008.
For the second consecutive month, employers added scarcely any jobs in June, startling evidence that the economic recovery is stumbling … The government also revised downward the small gain for the previous month to 25,000 new jobs, less than half the original estimate. (The New York Times, 9 July 2011)
“Dismal Jobs Data Rock US Recovery” and “Worries Grow Over Jobs,” read the respective headlines in the Financial Times and Wall Street Journal on July 9th, dissipating the air of optimism that had recently rallied equity markets.
“Employment!” More than factory orders, GDP, corporate profits, retail sales, durable goods … employment was the one big number that counted. There was no way to spin the consequences of 18,000 mostly low paying health care and hospitality jobs into the hopeful message implied by the 125,000 jobs forecast by most economists.
The equation was simple; the more people out of work, the less they consume. And in the United States, where consumer spending accounts for an estimated 70 percent of the GDP, without increased consumer spending, the economy was again recession bound.
Virtually overnight, one dire employment report unraveled two years’ worth of government spin and media complicity. In April 2010, Vice President Joseph Biden promised, “we’re going to be creating between 250,000 jobs a month and 500,000 jobs a month.” And in August 2010, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner declared that the “actions we took at its height [of the crisis] to stimulate the economy helped arrest the freefall, preventing an even deeper collapse and putting the economy on the road to recovery.”
But almost a year later, talking on “Meet the Press,” two days after the devastating employment data was released, the new, revised Geithner forecast was, “Oh, I think it’s [the recovery] going to take a long time still. This is a very tough economy. And I think for a lot of people it’s going to be – it’s going to feel very hard, harder than anything they’ve experienced in their lifetime now, for some time to come.”
Like the Biden boast long-buried and un-exhumed, the Geithner statement, a direct contradiction of his former projection went unchallenged, given the usual free pass by the “Meet the Press” Presstitutes.
There was, and is, no “return to recession.” As The Trends Research Institute had been forecasting since the onset of the Great Recession and the “Panic of ’08,” all those “bold actions” proudly cited by Geithner were no more than financial Prozac – multi-trillion-dollar band aids, palliatives, placebos and cover-ups packaged as TARP, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, QE2, and so on. At best, the “bold actions” merely guided the Great Recession into a brief remission, and that is all.
We’re still in the thick of it, and we have perhaps a decade left to go before any semblance of normalcy returns to the American economy (if we’re lucky).
Yesterday, our President threatened social security retirees by suggesting that the government wouldn’t be able to send them their checks come August. This, of course, is a complete fabrication and political power play by Mr. Obama, once again threatening that the sky is falling in order to bamboozle the American public into spending trillions more dollars on a failed economic recovery policy.
It’s not working. Nothing the government has done thus far has worked.
As Mr. Celente points out above, it’s about jobs and consumer spending, neither of which are improving in any significant way.
Unemployment benefit applications have topped 400,000 per week for the last 14 weeks, and save a couple of months under 400,000, have been this way since the recession began. Consumer spending is being pummeled, falling below expectations again. The economy is contracting and financial firms are quietly lowering earnings expectations across the board.
Many will argue that we did, in fact, exit the recession when our GDP growth quarter-over-quarter went positive last year. But considering that GDP growth has been full funded by government intervention over the last three years and the real inflation rate of 10% has a lot to do with the increase in spending over that time, it should be clear that global GDP growth numbers are fictitious, much like this so-called economic recovery.
The recession never ended. More importantly, we are in the midst of the next Great Depression right here and now.


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TICKETS AT THE DOOR $35
Guests: Clowns + Pagan
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Bodyjar 10pm til 11pm
It has been 15 years since Bodyjar released their breakthrough album 'How It Works', and to celebrate they have announced a run of special intimate shows at the Northcote Social Club where they will be playing the album in its entirety. Joining them will be Clowns who are wrapping up a massive 19 date headlining tour this weekend in WA.
How It Works was originally released in 2000 and was Bodyjar's fourth album. It debuted in the top 20 in the ARIA Chart week of release and was Certified Gold in 2005.
To coincide with the anniversary, How It Works will be released on limited edition vinyl for the very first time via UNFD and features some of Bodyjar's biggest tracks including 'Not The Same' and 'Fall To The Ground.' This is strictly limited to 500 copies total worldwide so it is expected to sell quickly.


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Meat processor Cranswick has acquired a UK-based premium pig farming business as it looks to increase its “self-sufficiency” and boost traceability in its supply chain.
The company has acquired farming and rearing business, Packington Pork, from the Mercer Family, following a fourteen-year relationship with the business.
Under the deal, for an undisclosed amount, the Mercer family will retain its free-range poultry operations as a standalone business under the Pockington name.
Adam Couch, CEO of Cranswick, said the deal “strengthens our existing farming operations” and “reinforces our commitment to supporting and growing the British pig farming industry”.
He added: “It also aligns to our strategy of enhanced transparency and provenance of our food from farm to fork.”
The deal comes amid rising global demand for pork and the ongoing African swine fever crisis and sees Cranswick gain more control over its domestic supply.
“Cranswick, which accounts for more than half of the UK’s exports of pig meat, has been able to capitalise on growing demand from China, which has seen domestic production decimated by the African swine fever outbreak,” says Dean Best, Food Editor at GlobalData.
“However, even though Cranswick processes one third of all pigs in the UK, the company – until today’s deal for Packington Pork – only had direct control over around a fifth of its supplies. This acquisition takes that level to more than 25%.
“The African swine fever outbreak has the potential to reshape global pork supplies as well as severely affect Chinese production. It has also affected other parts of Asia and even some countries in Europe. Therefore, there could be upward pressure on global pig prices. Adding another supplier to Cranswick’s portfolio could help mitigate some of that pressure.
“That said, in the round, today’s move for Packington – an existing supplier – is more about Cranswick’s ongoing ambitions to have more control over its supply chain to meet UK retailer demands for security of suppliers, rather than reacting to the impact of African swine fever.”


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03/06/2014 - Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Colibrys releases its new ±5g MEMS accelerometer for vibration and mini shock sensing
Colibrys (Switzerland) Ltd. has announced today the release of its VS9005.D, a new ±5g range MEMS vibration sensor, complementing its existing family of +/-2g to +/-200g products targeted for applications in the industrial and instrumentation markets.
→ Press release
Colibrys launches new products and strengthens its position as high-end MEMS sensors manufacturer
Colibrys, the Swiss MEMS manufacturer, announces a new product launch and strengthens its worldwide position as a high-end motion sensors supplier. This news closes an intense period of change that began in 2013 with the company buy-out from Safran Electronics & Defense (SAFRAN group), world lea...
03/07/2014 - Yverdon-les-Bains
Colibrys officially in production at Yverdon-les-Bains
Colibrys announces the official release of its production activities at its new manufacturing site Av. des Sciences 13, 1400 Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland. → Press release - English...


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On Jan 7, Zacks Investment Research upgraded SanDisk Corp. (SNDK) to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).The upgrade came on the back of positive estimate revisions over the last 60 days. SanDisk’s shares were up 50.9% over the past one-year period. Moreover, SanDisk has delivered positive earnings surprises in the last four quarters with an average beat of 27.94%.
Why the Upgrade?
Over the last 60 days, SanDisk witnessed one upward revision for the current quarter as well as for fiscal 2013. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for both the current quarter and the full year went up by a cent to $1.47 and $4.89, respectively, over the same period of time.
It is also worth noting that the Zacks Consensus Estimate for SanDisk’s fourth-quarter revenues is within management’s guided range. SanDisk guided revenues to be between $1.650 billion–$1.725 billion, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate is pegged at $1.702 billion.
Moreover, management remains positive about solid state drive (SSD) revenue growth, favorable product mix and better supply/demand metrics in fiscal 2013 which will boost pricing. SanDisk also expects a ramp up in the demand for its latest 19-nm technology.
Apart from this, SanDisk is planning to focus more on iNAND technology which will drive its mobile-embedded products. The company also expects its total SSD contribution to be roughly 25.0% of the total revenue moving into 2014.
Moreover, the acquisition of SMART Storage Systems is expected to expand SanDisk’s offering in the Enterprise SSD segment.
Though lackluster PC sales, European issues, competition from Micron Technology Inc. (MU) and currency fluctuations could hurt fundamentals to some extent, we remain positive on management’s commentary of a turnaround story in the coming quarters and strong secular demand for NAND flash.


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The world's largest retailer Walmart in the second fiscal quarter ended July 27, increased comparable sales in the US by 4.5%, showing the maximum rate for 10 years. The growth of the indicator is due to high sales of food, clothing and seasonal goods. Experts had expected growth of only 4%. Quarterly revenue was $128 billion, having increased by 3.8% and exceeding the average market forecast of $126 billion. Sales of the online store grew by 40%. Outside the US, Walmart's revenue increased 4% to $29.5 billion. As a result of the quarter, the retailer recorded a net loss of $861 million against a net profit of $2 billion 900 million a year earlier due to one-time write-offs related to the sale of an 80 percent stake in Walmart Brazil.
China removes restrictions on car purchases to increase sales26.03.2020
U.S. asks Facebook, Walmart, and Amazon to stop over pricing amid pandemic crisis26.03.2020
Worldwide smartphone sales drop 14% in February due to COVID-19 contagion26.03.2020
Singapore prepares for recession as virus-hit economy drops in first quarter


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Former Ayling acolyte quits BA
Carl Michel, a high-flying executive at British Airways and one-time acolyte of former chief executive Bob Ayling, has left the flagship carrier. BA said his departure is due to an elimination of Michel's wide-ranging role as commercial director, though observers believe the arrival of new chief Rod Eddington hastened his going.
A McKinsey management consultant educated at Oxford and Harvard, Michel, 37, had been seen as a successor to Ayling before Ayling's ignominious departure earlier this year. One of Ayling's inner coterie, having previously been his personal adviser, Michel had cut his teeth in the airline game by being given Deutsche BA to run in Germany.
Michel appeared to revel in the chance to puncture the German flagship carrier Lufthansa on its own turf and compared himself with Sir Richard Branson in a David-like battle against an industry Goliath.
Eddington, the Australian brought in to replace Ayling, is shaking up management in the wake of his restructuring of the group.
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7 min read
This story originally appeared on StockNews
The rising demand for raw materials has led to a substantial increase in the demand for cargo trucks over the past couple of months. As manufacturing and industrial production continues to rise, we think truck manufacturers Paccar (PCAR) and Oshkosh (OSK) should be able to generate solid revenues and earnings. But let’s evaluate which of these stocks is a better buy now.
Paccar Inc. (PCAR) is a global technology leader that designs and manufactures high-quality light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF brand name. The company also designs and manufactures advanced diesel engines, provides financial services and information technology, and distributes truck parts related to its principal business.
Oshkosh Corporation (OSK) is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies worldwide.
The rising demand for raw materials amid a recovering economy has been boosting the demand for trucks for cargo transportation. Furthermore, the recovery of manufacturing and industrial activities should lead to rising demand for transportation vehicles. Most truck companies are investing heavily in technology and electric solutions to enable clients to track their shipments, enhance customers’ operational efficiency and reduce carbon-emission.
While PCAR lost 1.2% over the past month, OSK surged 13.1%. In terms of their past year’s performance, OSK’s is a clear winner with 124.4% gains versus PCAR’s 40.4% returns. But, which of these stocks is a better pick now? Let’s find out.
Click here to check out our Automotive Industry Report for 2021
On April 6, PCAR announced a five-year supply agreement with Romeo Power, Inc. (RMO), a California-based leading battery technology company, to purchase Romeo Power’s battery packs and battery management software for PCAR’s heavy-duty battery electric Peterbilt 579EV vehicles and Peterbilt 520EV refuse trucks. This partnership will enhance PCAR’s zero emissions product offerings and improve its customers’ operational efficiency.
In January, PCAR and Aurora signed a global, strategic agreement to develop, test and commercialize autonomous Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks. The company hopes its autonomous vehicle platform with the Aurora self-driving technology Aurora Driver will enhance its customers’ safety and operational efficiency and generate good sales in the next several years.
In its fiscal year 2020 sustainability report released on May 7, OSK has been able to reduce normalized greenhouse gas emissions by 21.4% since 2014 and diverted 83% of waste from landfills. The company is striving toward its sustainability goals with the launch of electric products and reduced energy usage.
In February, OSK partnered with ALLETE Clean Energy, an ALLETE, Inc. (ALE) Subsidiary, in a renewable energy sale agreement to develop a wind energy site in Oklahoma. OSK announced a planned investment in Microvast, a global provider of next-generation battery technologies for commercial and specialty EVs, to develop and introduce electric solutions in all its business segments. Both partnerships are likely to improve its product pipelines and foster expanded market reach.
Recent Financial Results
PCAR’s total sales and revenues for its fiscal year 2021 first quarter, ended March 31, increased 13.2% year-over-year to $5.85 billion. Its sales and revenue from the truck segment increased 12.4% year-over-year to $4.22 billion. The company’s gross profit was $607.30 million, which represented a 31.4% year-over-year improvement. Its net income increased 30.8% year-over-year to $470.10 million. And its EPS increased 31.1% from the prior-year period to $1.35. The company has cash and cash equivalents of $3.32 billion as of March 31, 2021.
For its fiscal year 2021 second quarter ended March 31, OSK’s net sales rose 5.1% year-over-year to $1.89 billion. Its gross profit increased 7.8% year-over-year to $315.10 million. Its adjusted operating income came in at $143.30 million, up 7.3% from the prior-year period. However, its adjusted net income increased 18.3% year-over-year to $102.30 million. And its adjusted EPS increased 18.4% year-over-year to $1.48. The company had cash and cash equivalents of $1.09 billion, as of March 31, 2021.
Past and Expected Financial Performance
PCAR’s tangible book value rose at a 7.8% CAGR over the past three years, while its EPS declined at an 8.6% CAGR over this period.
Analysts expect PCAR’s revenue to increase 91.6% in the current quarter (ending June 30, 2021), 32.7% in the current year and 12.3% next year. PCAR surpassed the Street’s EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters. Its EPS is expected to increase 223.3% in the current quarter, 57% in the current year and 19.9% next year. PCAR’s EPS is expected to grow at a rate of 25.2% per annum over the next five years.
In comparison, OSK’s tangible book value rose at a 21% CAGR over the past three years, while its EPS declined at a 0.4% CAGR over this period.
Analysts expect OSK’s revenue to increase 39.9% in the current quarter, ending June 30, 14.9% in the current year, and 8.7% next year. OSK has surpassed the Street’s EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. Also, its EPS is expected to increase 75.4% in the current quarter, 38.3% in the current year, and 24.8% next year. Furthermore, its EPS is expected to grow at a rate of 24.3% per annum over the next five years.
PCAR’s trailing-12-month revenue is 2.84 times OSK’s. However, OSK is more profitable, with a 16% gross margin compared to PCAR’s 12.7%.
However, PCAR’s 11.1% EBITDA margin compares favorably with OSK’s 8.4%.
In terms of non-GAAP forward P/E, OSK is currently trading at 20.05x, 25.9% higher than PCAR’s 15.93x. And OSK’s 0.96x non-GAAP forward PEG is significantly higher than PCAR’s 0.81x.
But, in terms of forward EV/EBITDA, PCAR’s 14.80x is higher than OSK’s 12.08x.
Both PCAR and OSK have an overall B rating, which equate to Buy in our proprietary POWR Ratings system. The POWR Ratings are calculated considering 118 different factors, each weighted to an optimal degree.
Both companies have a C grade for Quality, which is justified by their slightly higher-than-industry profit margins.
PCAR has a C grade for Value. This is justified because its forward EV/EBITDA of 14.80x is 12.5% higher than the 13.15x industry average. However, OSK has a B grade for Value. This is in sync with the company’s lower-than-industry forward EV/EBITDA.
Of the 53 stocks in the B-rated Auto & Vehicle Manufacturers industry, PCAR is ranked #19, while OSK is ranked #12.
Beyond what we’ve stated above, our POWR Ratings system has also rated both PCAR and OSK for Momentum, Sentiment, Stability and Growth. Get all PCAR ratings here. Also, click here to see the additional POWR Ratings for OSK.
A global semiconductor shortage has caused some companies to delay their truck deliveries in the first quarter of 2021. However, both PCAR and OSK are striving to introduce technology and electric trucking solutions, and thus have the potential to capitalize on the rebounding transportation sector. However, we think PCAR’s higher revenue and earnings growth potential make it a better investment bet.
Our research shows that the odds of success increase if you bet on stocks with an Overall POWR Rating of Buy or Strong Buy. Click here to view the top-rated stocks in the Auto & Vehicle Manufacturers industry.
PCAR shares were unchanged in after-hours trading Tuesday. Year-to-date, PCAR has gained 6.25%, versus a 10.54% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index during the same period.
About the Author: Sweta Vijayan
Sweta is an investment analyst and journalist with a special interest in finding market inefficiencies. She’s passionate about educating investors, so that they may find success in the stock market.
The post Paccar vs. Oshkosh: Which Truck Manufacturing Stock is a Better Buy? appeared first on StockNews.com


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The president of mobile communications at Samsung Electronics is not currently interested in coming up with a new name for the company’s fall flagship device.
“I will bring back a better, safer and very innovative Note 8, Koh said to CNET.
Koh addressed the press on Monday to lay out what investigators have found to have caused scores of Galaxy Note 7 battery explosions. The Thursday before, he jumped past the Galaxy S8 to think about what to call the summer phablet.
For the past few months, the “Note” brand has received the most marketing it has ever received: through media coverage of explosion events that stopped airplanes, exposed a lapse in customer service attitude and other traumatic events. The FAA has required US airliners to warn its passengers to turn away Galaxy Note 7 owners from its planes. And late night comedians have made punchlines of the burst phone.
To say that the word “Note” carries a negative connotation in this industry is understating it.
But brand loyalty surveys indicate that Samsung comes away from the ordeal with high regard and internal surveys continue to indicate that there is still strength to the “Note.” Its most loyal customers are the ones that Verizon is targeting when it comes to crippling service to those still holding their Note 7.
Should it matter what you call a six-inch phone with a digital pen?
“They made it clear, they want a Note,” said Tim Baxter, president of Samsung US.


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Fourth Quarter PC Sales Hit New Record
Mar 14, 2011, 16:05 (0 Talkback[s])
(Other stories by Stuart J. Johnston)
Re-Imagining Linux Platforms to Meet the Needs of Cloud Service Providers
"Reports of the PC's pending demise may be a little premature,
according to the findings of the latest PC sales report from
tracking firm IHS iSuppli.
"In fact, sales of new PCs hit a new high last quarter.
"In the fourth quarter of 2010, sales of PCs, including
desktops, notebooks and netbooks, topped 93 million units, up from
88.9 million in the same quarter of 2009, according to iSuppi.
"For all of 2010, PC makers sold 345.4 million units, up from
302.4 million in 2009. That's a gain of 14.2 percent year over


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A Twitter user named Nick, who claims to be a former employee of a McDonald’s outlet in the US, posted photos on his account showing green, greasy and disgusting gunk inside an ice cream machine at the restaurant he once worked at.
Soon after, his tweet went viral and across the globe, and people are starting to wonder about the food handling process and safety at McDonald’s, including inspectors from Shanghai Municipal Food and Drug Administration (SHFDA).
Four McDonald’s outlets in the city were inspected by SHFDA on July 27, days after Nick’s tweet was posted. After checking licenses, food materials, operation procedures and disinfection records, the results showed no irregularities.
However, when SHFDA asked to check the inside of ice cream machines, staff refused to open them.
Reporters of the Paper received photos of these machines from McDonald’s and assured that they are safe and clean.
Images sent from McDonald's China
McDonalds China later issued a statement, reassuring that food safety is of great importance to them. Customers shouldn’t have any concern about their products.
We went around McDonald’s across city and found that most restaurants are still crowded as usual.
[Images via Tecent News and The Paper]


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Published by Cobram Courier on 5 December, 2013.
This article also appeared in print on 4 December.
UnitingCare has again joined with retail giant Target to launch its Christmas giving appeal, Operation Santa.
The group has erected a tree near the entrance of Target Country Cobram, after a long process to identify local families who needed an extra hand to fill their Christmas stockings this year.
UnitingCare Cobram co-ordinator Bev Anderson has spent more than a decade making sure every child in the region gets a gift on Christmas morning.
Mrs Anderson said it was the Christmas joy that kept her going.
‘‘It’s wonderful to see the pleasure of the people who receive the gifts,’’ she said.
‘‘This year we’re expecting about 160 gifts, but it will be more than that because there will be people who come in last minute.’’
Operation Santa relies on local groups like St Vincent de Paul and Citizens Advice Bureau to refer needy families to UnitingCare, which distributes the donated presents collected at Target.
Mrs Anderson said there were also other struggling local parents who visit the program’s headquarters at Cobram Community House in the days before Christmas.
●Gifts can be donated at Target Country on High St, Cobram.


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The marketing trend for big brand names in the fashion industry is opting to invest resources online. High-end fashion leaders such as Armani, Burberry, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton Moet Hennesy (LVMH) have also chosen to upgrade their online business presence.
There have been innovative campaigns created to maintain a brand’s exclusivity. For instance there were 1,500 viewers that were selected by invitation to access a live stream of the Burberry catwalk during London Fashion Week in its stores.
Social media has also been leveraged, whereby French-owned LVMH utilizes the application “FourSquare” to identify the location of individuals through an iPhone, and visits to its stores will appear as “Vuitton insiders.”
Luxury shoe designer Jimmy Choo has also devised a strategy that provides exclusive opportunities for its customers to be able to purchase limited edition trainers.
Other fashion houses, such as Ralph Lauren, have created a specific iPhone application that enables its customers to design tailor-made orders they can share with others through social media platforms like Facebook for its Rugby brand.
The concept of “shop the runway” technology is powered by Createthe Group, founded by James Gardner, who helped pioneer algorithmic trading when he worked on Wall Street, according to the BBC.
“It’s a very powerful way to acquire long-term relationships with their customers,” Gardner says. “They’re seeing new clothes at the same time as the buyers.”
The Luxury Goods Worldwide Market Study, conducted by consulting firm Bain & Company, reports that online luxury goods sales are overperforming overall Web sales and will grow at 20 percent in 2010, to $5.8 billion. Discounted sales account for 30 percent of online, versus 70 percent of online purchases made at full price.
There are still limitations to transferring a luxury brand to the Web. Matt Rhodes, an expert social media strategist for several of high-end travel and fashion companies from FreshNetworks in London, argues that the experience of purchasing high-end products still has merit when it comes to face-to-face service.
“If you’re going to spend US$1,000 on a pair of shoes, you want to have a glass of wine going around, the attention of staff; you want an experience as well as a purchase,” he said. From store design to employee training, luxury firms have invested heavily in building these kinds of experiences for customers, making retail locations feel “less like sales rooms and more like intimate venues,” Rhodes said.
Other luxury brand names embracing technology include BMW to Marc Jacobs when they aim to target a younger demographic where it be an SUV and a men’s fragrance, respectively—the social media campaigns. Even a more classic brand name in fashion Oscar de la Renta, was able to make the use of Twitter to describe a bridal gown at a bridal trunk show taking place at Bergdorf Goodman which resulted in a sale.


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OCEAN CITY, MD – The City of Ocean City, Md., has received two new KME Predator fire engines, both of which are replacing two engines that have been in service for more than 20 years. According to the City’s fire department, these new vehicles will allow it to provide better emergency response services.
The Predator fire engine is powered by an International MAXXForce 13 450 HP motor. Each features a 550-gallon water tank and a 50-gallon foam tank with a 2,000 gpm Waterous Fire Pump. Each vehicle features rear and side view safety cameras for backing and parking and two specialized cabinets that house medical supplies.
The engines also have red and yellow safety markings on the front bumper and back, which makes the vehicles more visible at night and when near units that are working along roads.


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A Cardiff -based telemarketing company has announced a major expansion with the creation of 80 new jobs and a move to new premises.
PS Group has hired the telemarketers to work in the company’s data correction department, as well as its existing product sales unit.
Founded by Wayne Phillips in 2010, the company provides various channels to directly target customers, selling third party products, as well as its own.
Check out our gallery of 10 stories of significant job creation in Wales
Last year, the company generated 110,000 customers for their own products and are looking to reach 150,000 in 2015.
The company has moved to its current base at Capital Business Park from its former home at Springmeadow Business Park in the east of the city.
Staff have taken a hands-on approach to converting the old warehouse premises into a fully functioning call centre in a £300,000 revamp.
Staff have been involved in all aspects of the conversion, including the design of the space through to the decoration and furnishing.
Mr Phillips said: “We have seen the company go from strength to strength in recent years, and the recruitment of 80 new members of staff is a huge step for us.
“To think that we started with a team of four just five years ago, and now have 148 members of staff is incredible. Our Operations Director was one of those four people and has risen up through the ranks.
RELATED ARTICLE: Expansion planned for Capital Business Park
“As staff were actively involved in creating our new workspace they take a lot of pride and ownership in the company.
“We are confident that all of our new recruits will fit in well with our dedicated team and will continue to develop within our growing business.”


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Simon & Schuster Pushes QR Codes for All Books to Drive Traffic
This fall, QR codes will begin to appear on all of Simon & Schuster’s trade paperback and hardcover books.
Right now, 26 percent of the company’s book sales are digital, according to PaidContent.org’s Laura Hazard Owen. The company’s Chief Digital Officer Ellie Hirschhorn explaned in an e-mail to employees that the QR codes will take consumers to the author’s page on the publisher’s website.
The pages include a link to sign up for newsletters, links to the authors’ other books and videos.
Bloomberg Businessweek reported last summer that only 5 percent of Americans scanned a QR code. Mashable’s Lauren Indvick points out, “The truth is that few people who see a QR code know what to do with it, and even those who do aren’t likely to be thrilled by its reward to sign up for a newsletter. That being said, Hirschorn says many publishers who have provided shortcut to videos within their books have already seen ‘good results.'”
Videos may not be enough for the consumer, however.
Cynthia Boris of Marketing Pilgrim says that the plan is more beneficial to Simon & Schuster than to the customer, which is why it might not fare well.
“Now, if they were to use QR codes to lead me to additional content, like a download of a free story or a chance to win a bunch of free books, but it doesn’t appear that way,” she says. “Once again, it’s a big company using a little box in order to drive traffic to their website for their gain, not yours.”


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Jack Ma, the visionary behind Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., recently praised Pinduoduo (PDD) for its remarkable growth, steering attention to the rising tech competitor in China’s e-commerce landscape.
Pinduoduo’s Meteoric Rise in E-Commerce
While less known outside China, Pinduoduo, or PDD Holdings Inc., has become a major player, gaining popularity with innovative approaches in the domestic market. The company’s success extends to its hit shopping app, Temu, which has rapidly rivaled giants like Amazon and Walmart in just over a year.
PDD’s Market Valuation Surpasses Alibaba’s – A Turning Point
Following Jack Ma’s commendation, Pinduoduo’s market valuation eclipsed Alibaba’s for the first time, marking a significant shift in an industry long dominated by Alibaba.
Founded eight years ago by entrepreneur Colin Huang, PDD differentiates itself by infusing game-like features into online retail, creating a social and entertaining shopping experience. Temu, PDD’s app, replicates familiar offline experiences, offering users a blend of fun and familiarity.
Temu’s Global Impact and Competition with Amazon
Temu’s success extends beyond China, making waves in over 40 countries. The app’s rapid growth, underscored by a Super Bowl ad, has led to high download rates and fierce competition with established retailers like Amazon.
Challenges and Skepticism Surrounding Temu’s Success
Despite its popularity, skeptics question the sustainability of Temu’s success, raising concerns about the longevity of its low-price strategy. Comparisons are drawn to previous tech industry wonders that struggled to retain users after heavy subsidies.
PDD’s Strategic Innovations and Global Expansion
Pinduoduo emphasizes its commitment to e-commerce innovation, incorporating interactive game-like shopping and an efficient supply chain. The company aims to adapt its successful “Consumer-to-Manufacturer” (C2M) model for global markets through Temu.
Jack Ma and Colin Huang – A Generational Shift in Chinese Tech
Jack Ma and Colin Huang represent a generational shift in the Chinese tech industry. While Ma is a veteran entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in opening up China’s economy, Huang, a math prodigy, identified opportunities between industry leaders Alibaba and Tencent.
PDD’s Resilience and Growth Amid Setbacks
Despite setbacks, including profit concerns and regulatory challenges, Pinduoduo persevered. Under CEO Chen Lei, the company expanded into smaller cities and overseas markets, turning its first annual profit in 2021.
PDD’s Unique Approach to Social Responsibility
Pinduoduo’s emphasis on social responsibility, as highlighted in earnings reports, aligns with the Communist Party’s agenda, focusing on poverty alleviation, supporting farmers, and addressing food security issues.
Temu’s Rapid Growth and Potential Challenges
Temu’s rapid growth and popularity are evident, but there are signs of potential challenges. Concerns about short-lived success arise as surveys suggest a significant portion of users are spending less on the platform.
Navigating Global Expansion and Political Landscape
As Temu expands globally, Pinduoduo faces the challenge of navigating political landscapes, drawing comparisons to TikTok. However, the app has largely avoided scrutiny, possibly due to its focus on affordable goods with fewer political implications.
Temu’s Unique Position in the Market
While some compare Temu to Wish.com, the company asserts its distinct platform and supply chain, positioning itself as a sustainable alternative to offer low prices.
A growing community of consumers is emerging to navigate the diverse world of Temu, with individuals sharing their experiences and discoveries through platforms like YouTube.


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Originally called TozzaPlus until it rebranded in 2019, Workpay is a cloud-based human resources management and payroll solution for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Africa. The startup’s time tracking and salary disbursement tools help African businesses save money and time by eliminating ghost workers from their payroll and inefficiencies associated with cash payments.
A Y Combinator graduate, the startup raised a US$2.1 million seed funding round in late-2021, and has now secured US$2.7 million in pre-Series A capital from global and Africa-focused investors, including Launch Africa Ventures, Saviu Ventures, Acadian Ventures, Proparco, Fondation Botnar, Kara Ventures, Norrsken and Axian, with the participation of P1 Ventures, an existing investor.
Workpay, which already expanded into Nigeria in 2021, provides HR solutions to over 600 businesses in over 20 countries across Africa, and has been adding new product lines in line with the remote work trend. This funding will support the company’s mission of empowering businesses to manage and pay their employees across Africa, regardless of location.
“Our solution meets the specific needs of HR and payroll across Africa, and with this new investment, we will continue scaling across the continent. Payroll is a strategic part of the payments value chain that allows us to build other products on top of it,” said the CEO and co-founder of Workpay, Paul Kimani.
Thomas Otter, general partner at Acadian Ventures, said Workpay was building a top-notch product, meeting the specific needs for HR and payroll in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“The addressable market in the region is fast-growing, and HR and payroll systems provide the foundation for fair and accurate pay. When combined with advances in mobile payments, solutions like Workpay can positively impact businesses and society,” he said.
Source: Tom Jackson/Disrupt Africa


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Vertu Motors’ Farnell Land Rover dealership in Bradford has begun a £2.4 million transformation as part of the Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) Arch Concept corporate identity programme.
Farnell Land Rover Nelson set for temporary location switch during refurbish.
Farnell Land Rover Guiseley sales executive Philippa Haigh has been hailed as a Rising Star with a win at the Barclaycard Everywoman in Retail Awards 2019.
Farnell’s Leeds Jaguar Land Rover dealership is achieving success as an SV Specialist Centre after its operations director exploited his design background to deliver bespoke luxury vehicles to its customers.
Farnell Land Rover Guiseley is expanding its offering to incorporate the prestigious Jaguar brand following a £4 million refurbishment of its showroom facility.
Farnell Land Rover has unveiled the results of a £4 million JLR Arch Concept redevelopment of its Guiseley showroom.
Vertu Motors celebrated the achievements of ‘game-changing’ colleagues throughout the UK at the company’s annual awards event.
Vertu Motors’ has highlighted the jobs created from a “pool of local talent” as a result of the opening of its new £10 million Farnell Jaguar Land Rover Bolton dealership.
Cartime is set to expand its used vehicle operations in Bury with the creation of a £1.2 million specialist used 4x4 showroom facility.
Vertu Motors has opened the door to a new £10 million Farnell Jaguar Land Rover showroom in Bolton.
Vertu Motors’ has appointed a new head of business at its Farnell Land Rover franchise in Guiseley as the dealership undergoes a £4.7m refurbishment.
Vertu Motors has delivered recognition to its “huge amount of talented game changers” at its annual CEO Awards.
Farnell Land Rover Bury is pledging its support to sailor William Rowland ahead of his competitive season training.
Vertu chief executive Robert Forrester has hailed as “astounding” the commitment of long-serving staff in the group’s northern dealerships which have amassed over 500 years combined service.
Farnell Jaguar Bolton has rewarded three GCSE pupils from Harper Green School with a taste of the motor industry.
Vertu Motors’ plans for a new Jaguar Land Rover dealership, under its Farnell brand, has been approved by councillors.
Farnell Jaguar has been named as the ‘best retailer group 2016’ by Jaguar UK.
Vertu has submitted plans to create a 5,700 square-foot Jaguar Land Rover showroom in Bolton.
Two Farnell Land Rover dealerships are offering free storage of customers summer tyres when they have winter tyres fitted.
Rik Shield has been appointed to run Vertu Motor’s new Farnell brand Jaguar Land Rover dealership in Leeds.
Automotive Management Live: Where franchised and independent dealers will find everything they need to know about operating a modern showroom and service and repair facility fit for the digital age.
When: November 12 2020
Where: Birmingham NEC
Find out what features are in this month's, and future, issues


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Here are six brand-new ad scans for you to peruse! There are just over two weeks to go until Black Friday 2015! Did you see any store that stood out? Did you find any stellar deals, or will you be avoiding these stores on Nov. 27? Let us know how you feel in the comments below!
We just posted the 99-item A.C. Moore Black Friday ad deals, along with the eight-page A.C. Moore Black Friday ad scan. A.C. Moore will be starting their sale at 5 a.m. on Black Friday. They’ll also be open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28.
We just leaked the Big Lots Black Friday ad deals, along with the 12-page Big Lots Black Friday ad scan. Big Lots will be offering select deals from 7 a.m. to midnight on Thanksgiving and will open at 6 a.m. on Black Friday. Other three-day deals will last through Saturday, when they’ll be opening at 7 a.m.
The Family Dollar Black Friday ad deals, along with the four-page Family Dollar Black Friday ad scan was also leaked. You can shop at Family Dollar starting from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving to get in on their door-busters. For other items in their three-day sale, check your local hours.
We just released the 85-item Modell’s Black Friday ad deals, along with the eight-page Modell’s Black Friday ad scan!
Most Modell’s stores will be open at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving and 6 a.m. on Black Friday. Don’t forget Modell’s offers 2.5% cash back.
We just posted the 21-item Ashley Furniture Black Friday ad listing, along with the four-page Ashley Furniture Black Friday ad scan. Ashley Furniture will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Black Friday and offers 3.5% cash back.
We just posted the 38-item Tractor Supply Black Friday ad listing, along with the four-page Tractor Supply Black Friday ad scan. Tractor Supply stores will open at 6 a.m. on Black Friday, but you can also shop Black Friday specials online on Thanksgiving. Tractor Supply offers 2.5% cash back, and shoppers will be able to snag deals on home goods, tools, automobile supplies and lawn and garden items during the Tractor Supply Black Friday sale.
Make sure you stay tuned for more updates on our Black Friday page. Happy shopping!


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UV-C disinfection as a practice has been steadily growing in demand, however 2020 is the year that the technique has truly garnered worldwide attention. The Covid-19 global pandemic has created a heightened focus on disinfection practices across multiple applications and environments. Prevailed as one of the most effective solutions for eliminating coronavirus from surfaces (and […]
Wave Illumination are proud to announce a winning entry in the Red Dot Product Design 2019 awards. It’s with pride, delight and excitement that we can announce our first product, the WaveGo, has been awarded the prestigious Red Dot Product Design 2019 award. The distinctive ‘Red Dot’ has become internationally recognisable as one of the […]
Real Business – publishers championing UK entrepreneurship – have featured the WaveGo and the benefits of light measurement. See the full article here! We’ve posted some of our highlights from the article below: ‘What if you could measure the health of an office building, and the employees within it? Imagine if a piece of tech […]
The best opportunity to view our pre-launch device!


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On 19th May, 2020, Eco-Business Philippines and Mondelez Philippines will be hosting a high-level panel discussion on plastic packaging and waste management in the Philippines and the region.
The event will provide a macro-overview of the plastics issue and its impact on society and the environment and identify key obstacles and challenges to reducing plastic usage and increasing recycling of plastic. It will outline the role of individual stakeholder groups in addressing the issue and explore how to integrate zero waste goals and circular economy principles in action plans.
At a time when single-use plastic use is surging as packaged goods deliveries to locked-down households rise, it has never before been more crucial for government, business, and the entire community to spotlight urgent and important issues behind plastic pollution and its impact on society and the environment and identify pragmatic solutions to reducing plastic usage and increasing recycling of plastic.
Plastic packaging is not only an environmental issue, it is an economic and a food safety issue as well. While plastic waste recycling infrastructures appear to be lacking in most communities and cities, plastic remains an efficient and valuable material for food packaging especially in countries like the Philippines where there is a lack of alternative and proper food storage options, and where the archipelagic make-up makes food distribution a complex process.
As policymakers and business leaders agree that plastic waste management is a problem, could an agreement also be reached as to how to solve this problem? Will a ban or taxation on plastic packaging be effective? What impacts would this have on Filipino consumers?
The high-level panel discussion will examine the entire plastics value chain in the Philippines and the regional context to identify where key problems are and how to address them, particularly highlighting the sweeping plastic bans occurring in the country and in the region—and their effectiveness.
Date: 19 May 2020
Time: 10am – 11:30 am
Hosted in the Philippines, delivered via Zoom
This conversation is by invite only. Tickets are limited, please write in to firstname.lastname@example.org with your name, job title, organisation and email address.


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Fireworks Event - 31st October
31 October 2014
Don't miss the most beautiful shopping night of the year at Gunwharf Quays.
Our popular Fireworks Event will return on Friday 31st October, with entertainment from 6pm.
This year's dazzling display of fireworks promises to be bigger and better with more live entertainment, music, offers and bangs than before!
Hosting the event will be the south coast's number one radio station, Wave105 who will keep the crowds entertained with a host of hit songs!
Take your place on the waterfront from 7pm. The 2014 fireworks display will be set to an exciting musical soundtrack; making for a perfect family outing.
Plus, with famous brands at discounts prices, make sure you factor in some time for shopping in our premium outlet stores. A host of our famous stores and restaurants will be offering some fantastic discounts that will be available between 5pm and 8pm on the 31st October.
Additional car parking is available in Wickham Street Car Park.
Admission to this event is free.
Visit www.facebook.com/GunwharfQuaysOutlet for all of the latest Fireworks news and offers.


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World of Warcraft Classic get one last stress test before launch
Back in April 2016, Blizzard shut down Nostalrius, one of the most popular vanilla WoW private servers around. This kicked off a lengthy discussion for Blizzard, with the studio ultimately announcing plans to launch WoW Classic. That announcement came in late 2017 but after much waiting, the game is finally nearing release and there will be one last beta test to take part in beforehand.
World of Warcraft Classic is set to fling players back in time, to when WoW was just a wee baby MMO at the start of its long journey, later this month. Before that, however, there’s one last test to make sure everything is running smoothly. The pre-launch test will start tomorrow, August 8, at 7 pm BST/11 am PT and will run until Friday. Blizzard will only be actively monitoring the test for the first two hours, however, so it wants as many players to jump in as possible right at the start.
The schedule released in May had the final stress test date listed from the start while Blizzard offered a reminder to its World of Warcraft fans at the start of this month. At 11 a.m. PT, the test will open to anyone who carries a subscription or has an active game time throughout all regions the game is available in. You’ll be able to reach level 15 in this test, according to a post shared recently. If you run out of WOW Classic Gold, you can come to rvgm.com for Cheap World of Warcraft Classic Gold. With a coupon code “RVGM”, you can enjoy 3% off.
“In our hardware testing, we found that we were able to successfully run WoW Classic on systems manufactured and released in the 2007-2009 timeframe, and thanks to improvements in how we build and distribute game data, the hard drive space requirements are actually smaller than they were in version 1.12 of original WoW,” Blizzard said.
The opportunity to revisit one of the most beloved MMOs as it existed in its infancy is nearing. World of Warcraft Classic is a gift not just to current World of Warcraft players, but to millions of fans now 15 years older. Whether or not World of Warcraft has aged particularly well remains to be seen. But there’s no argument that Blizzard has done something special by rereleasing this iconic classic.


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Businesses led by females on average received 6 times less funds than their male counterparts.
Funding into new UK businesses still weighs heavily in favour of male-led businesses.
According to startups.co.uk, men receive in general 6.2 times more business funding than women.
Using data collected from this year’s Startups 100 entrants (244 new businesses in total), here are the key insights into the findings:
On average, a female-founded business receives £763,300 in funding, compared to £4.7 million for a solely male-owned organisation
Businesses with both male and female founders averaged at £6.2 million this year
Women make up only 15% of the decision-makers in the UK venture capital industry
Half of women-led businesses are bootstrapped or self-funded, compared to just 32% of male organisations
Coming just after International Women’s Day 2023, the research highlights that there’s still a lot of progress to be made before women’s new businesses are treated equally to men’s. Please see the table below breaking down the funding types by male-led, female-led, and male and female led businesses:
As a consequence, women are having to bootstrap/self-fund their new businesses more - 50% in comparison to 32% of male-led. This type of funding has a higher chance of failure as well as more of a personal financial risk, which in turn feeds into the negative atmosphere and attitude that women are often faced with in business.
“Confidence is a huge issue”, says Sahar Hashemi, CEO of Buy Women Built. “If you feel the statistics are against you, no one will ever try.”
From the research, two of the main types of business funding - Angel Investment and Private Equity Funding - show the clear difference in funding between men and women owned businesses with both being 10% higher towards men. Businesses that have both a male and female leader also increase the rate of investment by 4% and 6% in these areas respectively.
Startups.co.uk writer and researcher Stephanie Lennox stated: “More female-led businesses were invested in this year – but the numbers are still exceptionally imbalanced, suggesting that the gender funding gap is still a significant issue for women in business today.
Female entrepreneurs looking to start a new business venture may face more difficulties, but by knowing the best business grants for women, crafting a well-rounded business plan, and looking to inspirational entrepreneur success stories, there’s so much that they can achieve now and into the future.”
Here are some insights and initiatives that are empowering funding women-led businesses:
Female entrepreneurs contribute £3.51 billion to the UK economy each year
According to the Rose Review, £250 billion could potentially be added to the UK economy if women matched men in receiving investment for their fledgling businesses
Melissa Snover, CEO & Founder of vitamin brand Nourished (and a member of our Startups 100 list for 2023) secured £1.95m - the highest seed round ever raised by a female founder
The Tory Burch Foundation - by the American fashion designer and businesswoman who was listed as the 88th most powerful woman in the world by Forbes in 2020 - has to date distributed over £62.4 million in loans to nearly 5,000 women


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There have been countless rumours about Fable 4 being in development for years now, but a recent leak may be the most concrete evidence of the game’s existence so far. The leak comes from Microsoft’s own Mixer streaming service, which gives it more validity as it comes from the official database of games for the service. When searching for Fable in the database, the game pops up as a result.
If you haven’t been keeping up with the Fable 4 rumours, they flared up again rather recently. Last year, it was suggested that Playground Games (the development team behind Forza Horizon) was working on Fable 4. The leak didn’t really mean anything until Phil Spencer confirmed that Playground Games were indeed working on an open-world RPG. The game may be at E3 but it could also be slated for the next-gen Xbox console as the leak is pointing towards. But, again, these are just rumours.
Fans have been waiting for the next installment in the Fable series for more than 10 years now. The series seemed dead when original developers Lionhead Studios closed its doors in 2016. The shutdown also saw the end of Fable Legends, which was a free-to-play, multiplayer version of the classic game. Though that wasn’t the end of the franchise as in 2018, a free-to-play card game based on the RPG series called Fable Fortune was released. The game didn’t gather much traction though.
Many believe that Microsoft still cares for the Fable franchise and for the huge fanbase it has garnered over the years. Microsoft is looking to steal the show this year as they are one of two members of the “big three” holding a press conference. One definite way to do this is to reveal a new entry in the Fable franchise.
Do you think Fable 4 will be at E3 2019 or is it just another dream?


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As expected WeChat has surpassed 100 milion users outside of its home country.
Tencent made the announcement in a press release the company sent to our inbox, along with the Infographic shown above. Over 100 million registered user accounts exist outside China, showing that the app is indeed popular even in the international stage and among growing competition in the messaging space.
Several key initiatives including the WeChat 5.0 upgrade, which moved the app beyond messaging and into the online payment space as well as gaming and stickers, and the global Lionel Messi advertising campaign have piqued the interest of audiences worldwide.
WeChat doubled its registered user account base in the last 3 months, reaching the 100m milestone shortly after an independent survey found that the platform was the fifth most used smartphone app worldwide.
Since its international debut, WeChat has been well received in Asia, quickly becoming the most popular mobile social app in Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and Malaysia across multiple smartphone OS platforms, where the user base has recently gained tremendous growth. In addition to these markets, WeChat gained popularity in other locations around the world, hitting the spot for the most downloaded mobile social app on app stores in Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Mexico, Philippines, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Thailand and Turkey in July 2013.
“We must thank all our fans for helping us achieving 100 million registered user account milestone in such a short space of time,” said Poshu Yeung, Vice President of the International Business Group at Tencent. “To those people, and to future users, we promise we will continue to bring you innovation, for example we launched the first-of-its-kind voice messaging service ‘Holdto-Talk’ on the app in 2011, and we will continue to develop and enrich our user experience. Whether users want to create text message, share moments, or engage in live audio and video chats, WeChat has made it all available to enjoy securely and for free.”
WeChat has seen a host of artists, sports personalities, celebrities and VIPs join the platform through various advertising campaigns as well as “official accounts” from brands such as McDonald and Nike in Hong Kong.
It’s certainly been an interesting trek so far this year for the app, and it will be interesting as well to see where it goes in the future. If you haven’t already, you can join the over 400 million registered WeChat users yourself by getting the latest version of the app for your favorite OS.


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News and announcements
Take part in the Russian-Chinese youth business incubator!
The Russian-Chinese youth business incubator is an acceleration program designed to bring Russian projects to the Chinese market and attract Chinese investment in the Russian economy.
Tyumen innovators can win half a million rubles for the development of their projects
Started accepting applications for the competition "UMNIK" Fund for the Promotion of Innovation. The purpose of the competition is to support talented young people focused on innovation. Students, graduate students, young scientists aged 18 to 30 years inclusive are invited to participate.
The Tyumen Region Export Support Center begins collecting applications for the provision of services for finding partners abroad
The export support center of the Tyumen region begins to collect applications from small and medium-sized businesses to provide services - search for partners abroad. Due to the current restriction to travel to foreign countries, this service will allow you to find a partner abroad without leaving the region. Production and trade export-oriented companies registered in the south of the Tyumen region can use the service for free.
Tyumen products were exported to hundreds of countries in 2019
According to customs statistics, in the Tyumen region in 2019, there were 218 exporting enterprises, of which 148 were small and medium-sized enterprises. Tyumen products were supplied to 102 countries of the world.
Tyumen products are exported by container trains
On March 26, another container train with products of Tyumen producers went on the route Voinovka - Avtovo October Railway (serves the port of St. Petersburg). From there, ships deliver cargo to anywhere in the world.
The investment potential of the Tyumen region is presented at the House of German Economy
In Moscow, in the House of German Economy, a business breakfast “Localization 2020” was held. The event was organized by the consulting company Schneider Group and the Government of the Tyumen region with the support of the Investment Agency of the Tyumen Region Fund and the Agency for Infrastructure Development of the Tyumen Region JSC.
Tyumen enterprises increase non-oil exports
The efforts of Tyumen enterprises to enter the international market bring good results. Especially in the supply of products of certain types of manufacturing industry.
Representatives of the Slovak company WAY Industries are considering the Tyumen region to organize the production of skid steer loaders
On February 17-18, 2020, representatives of the Slovak production and trading company WAY Industries paid a visit to the Tyumen Region to discuss the possibility of implementing an investment project in the region to build a mini-loader plant.
A class for learning the Kazakh language has opened in Ishim
The Kazakh language class opened in Ishim.
In Tyumen awarded clevers
On the eve of the Day of Russian Science, February 7, the awarding ceremony of the winners of the UMNIK contest was held in the Tyumen Technopark. Twenty young innovators who presented the best developments in six fields of activity in 2019 were awarded memorable statuettes and diplomas.