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Herbal retailer Culpeper is to invest more than £1.5m in a range of brand ‘revitalisation’ and store expansion plans, after being bought by a group of private shareholders in June.
The management has created a strategy that will see the implementation of a new in-house generated brand identity, store concepts and an overhaul of the product range.
The retail concept format will be trialled in the company’s Bath and Covent Garden outlets, before being rolled out across the 14-store estate.
Culpeper chairman and investor John Ayton believes the Culpeper brand can be revitalised alongside a growing interest in herbal and natural products.
‘We want to give a more contemporary, lifestyle feel to the brand, which is better known to an older age group,’ he explains.
Ayton, who is also the co-founder of luxury goods retailer Links of London, is planning to open ‘four or five’ new stores in central London from next Spring; one of these will be a Culpeper flagship, he says.
The brand overhaul has been completed in-house by creative director Peter Windett and includes the marque, packaging, stationery, mail-order materials and website.


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Known for his diversity & ability to connect individuals,Emmanuel Owusu, a preeminent CEO of the largest modeling agency in Ghana, Empire-GH models have come to a consensus with Kumasi Men Fashion Week for this year’s “Year of Return Fashion Exhibition”
Being the CEO of Passion for Fashion Ghana, Ghana Kids Fashion Week, Passion for Needy, Manuel has received countless awards.
It was recently rumored on social media that “Fire On The Runway” partnered him and his dexterity in the fashion world in order to save their fashion Exhibition.
Clearly, everyone in the fashion world looks up to him because of his highly skilled sense in fashion including Kumasi Men’s Fashion Week.
In collaboration with Manuel the Fashion Guru, KMFW Awards 2019 is set to bring out the best this year to promote the fashion business in Ghana.

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Lawmaker pushing to make MO port Midwest shipping hub
The Missouri House Policy Chairman is pushing for $23.5 million to expand the New Madrid, Missouri port along the Mississippi River in the southeast corner of the state.
Don Rone tells Brownfield Missouri, and much of the Midwest, has an inefficient supply chain for ag goods and other products.
“We depend on three ports to bring our containers into our area,” he said. “That’s L.A., that’s Savanah, Georgia, and Charlston, South Carolina.”
Rone said his proposed port investment would provide a hub for products to move to and from New Orleans.
“It would help exports, the return investments there,” Rone said. “And it would help to bring about, and I’m looking way down the road, value-added for agriculture products.”
He said the project has been in the works for a couple of years and the requested state funding would push it across the finish line.
“Out of a $40-something-billion budget, you wouldn’t think that’d be hard to come by, would you,” Rone said. “But it is hard to come by.”


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US-based full-service packaging company Coastal Container is set to invest $25m to expand and add capabilities to its facility in Holland, Michigan.
As part of the expansion plan, the company will add 65,000ft² of space to the existing facility.
Coastal Container will install new equipment for in-house corrugating capabilities and expand its current honeycomb capacities.
The onsite corrugator is capable of running more than two billion square feet of material a year and uses Fosber’s Syncro technology to support Industry 4.0 innovation through data collection, reporting and optimisation.
In addition to the new equipment, Coastal Container will add a rail spur at the plant to allow it to receive raw material in rolls instead of corrugated sheets.
By replacing around 48 truckloads of sheets with one delivery of seven rail cars, the company expects to reduce its fuel consumption by more than 150,000 gallons.
The expansion is also expected to create more than 60 jobs over the coming years and help Coastal Container address supply chain disruptions.
Coastal Container CEO Brent Patterson said: “Our family has been in the corrugated business for 60 years now.
“In these past couple of years, Coastal Container has seen tremendous growth, which allows us to make this expansion to better serve our customers and community.”
“This expansion positions us as the only locally owned and operated company in the region who can make corrugated on-site, build packaging and provide this level of control over our product quality and process.”
Coastal Container will invest $16m to acquire the 110in Fosber corrugator, $2m for new honeycomb equipment from GTW, and $7m for building and railroad construction.
The expansion project is due to be completed early next year, followed by the purchase and installation of equipment later that year.


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Toyota to Export U.S.-Assembled Venza to Russia and Ukraine
Information contained on this page is provided by companies via press release distributed through PR Newswire, an independent third-party content provider. PR Newswire, WorldNow and this Station make no warranties or representations in connection therewith.
Will build on record export numbers from U.S. in 2012
NEW YORK, Feb. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota today announced that it will begin exporting U.S.-assembled Venza vehicles to Russia and Ukraine in 2013. These shipments are expected to build upon Toyota's all-time record export of more than 124,000 U.S.-assembled vehicles to 21 global markets in 2012, an increase of 45 percent over the prior year.
"We are proud that Toyota's U.S. manufacturing operations are continuing to grow as a key supplier of vehicles for global markets, which is only possible thanks to the dedication and high-quality work of our team members here," said Shigeki Terashi, president and COO of Toyota Motor North America, Inc. "We expect the export of Venza vehicles to Russia and Ukraine will help further solidify our U.S. manufacturing base."
Once production begins in April 2013, Toyota expects to export approximately 5,000 Venza vehicles to Russia and Ukraine during the first year of sales. These vehicles will be built at the company's Georgetown, Ky. plant, which employs about 6,600 team members and represents a $6 billion investment. The Georgetown plant is the company's largest manufacturing facility outside of Japan.
Venza exports to Russia and Ukraine will ship from Brunswick, GA.
Toyota (NYSE:TM) established operations in the United States in 1957 and currently operates 10 manufacturing plants, including one under construction. There are nearly 1,500 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in the U.S. which sold over 2 million vehicles in 2012. Toyota directly employs more than 30,000 in the U.S. and its investment here is currently valued at more than $18 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design. Toyota's annual purchasing of parts, materials, goods and services from U.S. suppliers totals more than $23 billion.
Tuesday, April 30 2013 10:26 AM EDT2013-04-30 14:26:26 GMT
Everyone winterized their car. However, when spring comes around, many people do not know how to prep their car for warmer weather. Brian Barth from Smyth Auto stopped by FOX19 on Tuesday morning withMore >>
Smyth Autho gives six helpful tips to prep your car for spring.More >>
Thursday, March 1 2012 11:40 AM EST2012-03-01 16:40:47 GMT
According to Chrysler Group LLC, the Jeep brand has posted its best February sales since 2008, with an increase of 40 percent compared to February 2011. All of the models have increased more than 20 percent.More >>
With millions of cars sold around the world each year, 24/7 Wall St., a financial news and opinion group, compiled a list of the 10 best selling cars of all time. Included are cars new and old from across the globe. More >>
With millions of cars sold around the world each year, 24/7 Wall St., a financial news and opinion group, compiled a list of the 10 best selling cars of all time. Included are cars new and old from across the globe.More >>
Tuesday, May 24 2011 2:52 PM EDT2011-05-24 19:52:01 GMT
With a few computer keystrokes in an office at its headquarters, Chrysler Group LLC sent $7.6 billion to the U.S. and Canadian governments on Tuesday, paying off most of the bailout money that saved the company from financial disaster just two years ago.More >>
Friday, February 25 2011 11:46 AM EST2011-02-25 16:46:46 GMT
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. said Friday its fourth-quarter profit rose 2.6 percent as stronger demand for its products helped offset rapidly rising raw materials costs. The company is also raising tire prices next month for the second time this year and plans to boost production.More >>


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PlayJam takes on Kickstarter with Android console
Casual games firm PlayJam has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund a new console that plugs directly into a TV's HDMI slot. The new device, aptly titled GameStick, will run Android games and come with a Bluetooth controller. The stick-shaped console ...
Ouya Android Gaming Console Indepth Overview (video)
PlayJam's Android Powered Video Game Console will Compete with Ouya


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PAYOFF TIME FOR ITC
INDIA'S LARGEST FMCG FIRM'S CIGARETTE AND HOTEL BUSINESSES CONTINUE TO WEIGH ON VALUATIONS, MAKING INVESTORS RESTLESS. CAN A DEMERGER HELP IT ATTRACT INVESTOR ATTENTION?
When Sanjiv Puri took over as Chairman and MD of ITC from Y.C. Deveshwar, his mandate was clear — carry forward the vision of transforming the cigarette company into a diversified consumer- centric conglomerate. ITC’s dependence on cigarettes had begun to dent its stock market performance even during Deveshwar’s tenure. In his 21-year stint as Chairman and CEO, ITC entered many consumer categories, including staples, snacks, biscuits and personal care. By the time he hung up his boots, the FMCG business was a sizeable ` 10,500 crore.
Under Puri, the FMCG business is now almost ` 15,000 crore. FY21 has been one of the best years for the non- cigarette FMCG business with EBITDA margins at 9 per cent, up 180 basis points over FY20. “Our segment EBITDA margins have improved by 640 basis points between FY17 and FY20. In FY21, ITC’s FMCG revenue grew 16 per cent on a comparable basis, which is nearly double the industry peer group average and all of that is led by organic growth. Almost 75 per cent of our FMCG portfolio has grown by as much as 20 per cent,” says Puri.
Despite disruptions caused by the pandemic, ITC’s revenue grew 3.3 per cent to ` 53,155.12 crore in FY21. Its profit after tax fell 13.3 per cent to ` 13,389.80 crore but is still 40 per cent higher than rival Hindustan Unilever’s ( HUL’s) ` 7,963 crore.
However, none of this has rubbed off on the company’s stock market performance. ITC’s stock was at ` 202 on July 2, 2021, down 16 per cent from ` 245 on June 30, 2016. In contrast, stock prices of HUL and Nestle have sky-rocketed and are at ` 2,475 (` 898 five years ago) and ` 17,698 (`6,488 five years ago), respectively.
Why isn’t ITC able to win attention of investors? “More than 80- 85 per cent EBIT still comes from cigarettes. EBIT margins of cigarettes have gone up. Hence, dependence on cigarettes remains high. Therefore, overall multiples have been coming down. FII shareholding has come down 13-15 per cent in the last three-four years,” says a senior stock market analyst.
Most new businesses are still in the investment phase and haven’t matured enough to impress stock markets. Analysts say even if ITC is able to expand EBIT and EBITDA margins of non- cigarette businesses by 15 per cent in the next five years, they would be one-fifth its cigarette margins. “For transformation, the share of cigarettes in EBIT has to come down from 80 per cent to 60 per cent in the next five years,” says an analyst.
Multiples of cigarette companies have halved globally. Investors are shying away from investing in tobacco companies on fears they may not abide by global environment, social and governance ( ESG) norms. ITC has been hit despite having the best ESG scores in the world. “In the last four years, Sanjiv Puri has made positive changes. ITC has huge financial muscle. It is the largest FMCG company in profits. It has all the components to win. ESG is the only reason the stock is not moving,” says Abneesh Roy, Executive Vice-President ( Research), Edelweiss Securities.
The other factor going against the diversified conglomerate is its hotel business. The past year has been especially difficult, with hotels not being allowed to operate due to the pandemic. ITC’s hotel business shrunk 65.8 per cent in FY21. “ITC has best-in- class hotels, but since the business is tied to macro factors, investors find it much riskier. That’s the other reason why the stock gets a lower valuation,” says Roy.
The Puri-Deveshwar strategy is to make ITC future ready. ITC has adopted an aggressive innovation and product launch strategy. Puri has not only taken his mentor’s vision forward but also crafted new growth drivers. He ramped up FMCG investments both organically and through acquisitions — ITC acquired Savlon, Nimyle and Sunrise brands. He also made moves in agri-business by getting into value- added products. It recently launched frozen vegetables, fruits and sea-food under Farmland and Kitchens of India brands. Puri claims ITC is well on its way to achieving the ` 1 lakh crore sales target by 2030. “We are serving 3.6 times the markets we served earlier, we are covering 1.6 times more outlets, our stockist outlets have been multiplied four times.”
Not only has it strengthened its core portfolio of staples (Aashirvaad Atta), biscuits (Sunfeast) and snacks ( Bingo, Yippee! Noodles) and entered into adjacent categories ( pulses, cakes and masalas), it has forayed into dairy, chocolates and coffee too. In one year, it has had 121 launches, right from a host of Covid-19 products (surface disinfectant sprays, surface wipes, clothes disinfectant spray and vegetable cleaners) under the Savlon brand to ready-to- eat food and snacks.
Arun Kejriwal, Founder, Kejriwal Research and Investment Services, finds brand extensions in a highly commoditised segment like staples unique. “This is a segment where they are capitalising on their agri- sourcing strength. They have direct control over the price and quality of what they are buying and are able to do the right kind of value- addition for the consumer.”
Over the past three years, Puri has hired a lot of senior people. Ali Harris Shere, former CMO of Britannia, was brought in to give a facelift to the biscuits and cakes business, while Sanjay Singhal was hired from Dabur to head the dairy and beverages business. “They have got good lateral hires from other FMCG companies. It is a large business for ITC and getting the best talent from outside and not fully depending on internal talent is a good strategy,” says Roy of Edelweiss.
In paperboards, it tried to improve efficiencies by investing in pulp made from hard wood. “Across the world, pulp is made with soft wood. India doesn’t have soft wood. So, we invested in innovative technologies to convert hard wood into soft-wood pulp. This has been a significant intervention and given us lot of efficiencies,” says Puri.
Way back in 2000, Deveshwar gave Puri the task of setting up an ecommerce business. Since the idea was way ahead of its time, the project never took off. He says creating tech- based business practices had always been his passion, and the moment he took over as head of ITC, digitisation was among his top priorities. While the ITC e- store launched during the pandemic last year is the most obvious intervention, almost 10 per cent noncigarette FMCG revenue, says B. Sumant, Executive Director, has been coming from ecommerce. The company


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From Lady Gaga and Salma Hayek to Ariana Grande, grey hair is officially on trend. But how do you recreate the grey look or make the most of it if you are going grey? Vogue speaks to the experts about how best to maintain grey hair.
Society has historically put a premium on youth. Going grey was a symbol of advanced age and “letting go”, but now the stigma that comes with silver strands is rapidly fading away—and embracing a natural pewter palette no longer implies that someone has “given up”, but instead is making a statement of confidence and ownership. “Growing up, my grandma used to go have her hair shampooed and set every week, and every four weeks she’d have her hair coloured,” Josh Wood, founder and CEO of Josh Wood Colour and Redken global colour creative director tells Vogue. “It became almost like a utility to her, this idea of covering grey hair. I think today that is such an old-fashioned concept. The idea of completely blanketing out the grey hair denies one’s personality.”


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Google launched the Add-on store today for Docs and Sheets, which basically gives you apps for your documents. The Add-on store has tools made by third-party developers (and a few Google originals) that you can install to add features to documents and spreadsheets that weren't available before, like creating labels or sending customized emails. The feature resembles the Google Play Store and currently features about 30 add-ons.
This is a way for Google to enhance Docs and Sheets with some of the features that are mainstays in Microsoft's Word and Excel programs. One of the launches is an add-on from Avery Label Merge, which lets you merge data from a Google spreadsheet into Avery address labels. Mailchimp's add-on lets you choose different templates and make customized emails, and then send them from directly within Google Docs.
And then there are some unexpected add-ons that could prove to be really useful. EasyBib’s Bibliography Creator lets students look up academic sources, and then create and insert citations into a document in MLA, APA, and Chicago Manual of Style formats. UberConference also released an add-on that lets you invite people via email to a voice conference call from within a document, letting a group edit that document all together. This isn't the first time Google has opened up Drive to third-party developers, but these are the first app-like programs specifically for documents, and they could add enough new functionality to encourage users to convert from other services.
Google says it will put more add-ons in the store as it approves programs that developers have submitted.


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Google has confirmed the rumors about the group’s first foldable smartphone. The Pixel Fold will be officially launched at Google I/O 2023 on May 10th. Then technical details are also expected, because now Google has only published a short, computer-generated video. This shows the phone from different perspectives and how it opens and closes.
It had previously been reported that Google primarily wants to advertise the Pixel Fold with its particularly robust hinge. The phone, which will be codenamed “Felix,” will be available this summer and will cost over $1,700. That would put it in a price range with the Galaxy Z Fold 4, Samsung’s flagship.
Similarities to the Galaxy Z Fold 4
According to unofficial information, Google’s Pixel Fold will have a 5.8-inch outer screen. The touchscreen, which opens on the inside when you open it, is said to measure 7.6 inches. The Pixel Fold would be as big as the Galaxy Z Fold 4, but should be a bit heavier with a weight of 280 grams. The Pixel Fold should offer a stronger battery than comparable models.
According to current knowledge, the Pixel Fold is powered by a Tensor G2 chip, which is already in the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. It has two powerful cores (ARM Cortex-X) that clock at a maximum of 2.85 GHz. The middle cluster is made up of two ARM Cortex-A78s with speeds of up to 2.35 GHz, while Google uses four Cortex-A55s with a maximum of 1.8 GHz for the slow cores.
Extra large outdoor screen
The video confirms that the Google Pixel Fold sticks to the Pixel 7 series design with the camera module on the back. It is particularly interesting that the Pixel Fold has an almost full-surface front display even when folded. This means that it can be used like a standard mobile phone and does not have to be unfolded even for normal activities.
Almost all major cell phone manufacturers now have foldable cell phones on offer. Notable exceptions so far are Apple [-–] and Google. A foldable phone from the Android developer could bring this form factor closer to the mainstream. In Germany in particular, the foldable selection is currently still limited: Many Chinese manufacturers do not bring their foldable cell phones to the market in this country. On the other hand, models from Samsung and Motorola (Lenovo) are available.
In addition to the details of the Pixel Fold, the Google I/O 2023 developer conference on May 10th will probably focus on AI. Observers expect information about products and technologies related to artificial intelligence that Google is currently working on. In addition, news about Bard, Google’s answer to OpenAI’s chatbot ChatGPT, as well as AI products that can generate images, program apps or test prototypes.


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The new Los Angeles Spanish-language newspaper from the Tribune folks debuts March 1. The editor is Reynaldo Mena, who used to edit the Orange Country Register's weekly en Espanol, Excelsior, says today's LAT story.
Editions of Hoy will include eight pages of sports coverage, as well as entertainment news. A special weekend guide, Vida Hoy, will cover restaurants, events, music, television, movies and other entertainment news and features.
Hoy will dedicate region- specific pages each day to news from Central America, South America, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.
The tabloid newspaper, based in downtown Los Angeles, will be published Monday through Friday and sell for 25 cents at newsstands and retail outlets.


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Bean counters: Shoppers feeling the pinch should avoid drinking COFFEE before buying groceries as caffeine increases the chance of making impulse purchases, study warns
- Shoppers should avoid coffee before doing groceries if they want to save money
- That is the conclusion of a new study into how caffeine impacts what people buy
- Public more likely to make ‘impulse buys’ and spend more after drinking caffeine
- An international team of researchers ran three experiments in large retail stores
Shoppers feeling the pinch should avoid drinking coffee before buying groceries because caffeine increases the chance of making impulse purchases, a new study suggests.
Researchers found that people who drank a cup of caffeinated coffee before hitting the shops spent about 50 per cent more money and bought nearly 30 per cent more items than those who drank decaf or water.
The international study saw experts carry out three experiments in large retail stores that are increasingly adding coffee bars near their entrances.
Lead author Professor Dipayan Biswas, of the University of South Florida, said: ‘Caffeine, as a powerful stimulant, releases dopamine in the brain, which excites the mind and the body.
‘This leads to a higher energetic state, which in turn enhances impulsivity and decreases self-control.
‘As a result, caffeine intake leads to shopping impulsivity in terms of higher number of items purchased and greater spending.’
Shoppers feeling the pinch should avoid drinking coffee before doing the groceries because it increases the chance of making impulse purchases, a new study suggests (stock image)
Researchers found that people who drank a cup of caffeinated coffee before hitting the shops spent about 50 per cent more money and bought nearly 30 per cent more items than those who drank decaf or water
The experiments involved setting up an espresso machine at the entrances of a retail chain and home goods store in France and a department store in Spain.
On entry, more than 300 shoppers were provided a complimentary cup — with about half offered coffee that contained around 100 mg of caffeine and the others decaf or water. They then shared their receipts with the researchers as they exited the stores.
The study showed that those who had caffeine purchased a ‘significantly higher’ number of items and spent more money compared to those who had decaf or water.
Researchers found that caffeine also impacted what types of items people bought.
Those who had it bought more non-essential items, such as scented candles and fragrances, than the other shoppers.
However, there was a minimal difference between the two groups when it came to ‘utilitarian’ buys, such as kitchen utensils and storage baskets.
The international study saw experts carry out three experiments in large retail stores that are increasingly adding coffee bars near their entrances, including this one in France (pictured)
The researchers then set up a fourth experiment in a lab and received similar results, this time regarding online shopping.
They split the study pool of 200 business school students between those who drank caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee and asked them to pick which items they’d buy from a pre-selected list of 66 options.
Those who drank caffeine picked more items considered to be impulsive buys — such as a massager — while others selected more practical items like a notebook.
Prof Biswas added: ‘While moderate amounts of caffeine intake can have positive health benefits, there can be unintended consequences of being caffeinated while shopping.
‘That is, consumers trying to control impulsive spending should avoid consuming caffeinated beverages before shopping.’
The study has been published in the Journal of Marketing.
BENEFITS OF DRINKING COFFEE
Caffeine has been deemed safe for consumption in doses of up to 400 mg per day for the general population.
Studies suggest it can have a variety of health benefits, including combating liver disease and type two diabetes.
Research has even suggested it could even help people live longer.
It is the world’s most widely consumed stimulant and reports show it can boost daily energy expenditure by around five per cent.
Researchers have said combining two to four daily coffees with regular exercise would be even more effective at keeping the weight off.
A 2015 study showed just a couple of cups a day could help millions of dieters stay trim once they have achieved their desired weight.


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Unilever’s marketing restructuring is constant and does not seem to have an end, since it announced that its commercials would reduce them by 30 percent and its exhibition by another 10 percent, through a zero-based budget, where they would only spend on proven strategies, culminated with the Nepal Mobile Database expense of amounts of money strictly necessary. marketing restructuring Unilever’s is constant and does not seem to have an end, since it announced that its commercials would reduce them by 30 percent and its exhibition by another 10 percent, through a zero-based budget, where they would only spend on proven strategies, he concluded with the expense of amounts of money strictly necessary.
After the company reported that these movements culminated in an increase of 3.1 percent , the firm made a second move, which was to boost its sustainable brands, which grew 50 percent more than those that were not. Therefore, the transnational revealed that for a few months it has been integrating startups into its marketing strategy.
According to The Drum, Unilever has promoted the integration of startups and they will work “at the same level”, that is, without business distinctions, by 2025 . Apparently, 85 percent of managers of the company’s brands believe that it would improve efficiency. In addition, the brand has managed to reduce its advertising expenses by up to 6 billion euros.
Apparently, the utility that Unilever sees in startups is that they have state-of-the-art technology that can streamline work and reduce operating costs , including marketing, and they even stated that “it is not optional.”
In an analysis of the Brother Cell Phone List company sent to the Drum portal, it highlights that although 83 percent of startups value the advertising of these models in the short term, Unilever believes that other brands will invest in quick-fix programs. To do this, representatives travel to technology headquarters, like Silicon Valley at all times. So far, Unilever seems to have found a working strategy with the startups-platforms UGC Vidsy and Discuss-io , which provide qualitative and in-depth interviews to the client and focus groups, through webcams and crowdsourcing , that is, while the brands in By adopting a corporate model, your chances of partnering with companies like Unilever will improve.


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Port Shuffle —
European Union regulations could force Apple to switch.
Apple is testing iPhones that use the industry-standard USB-C port, according to a report in Bloomberg citing people with knowledge of the situation.
Since 2012, Apple’s smartphones have used the company’s proprietary Lightning connector. However, Apple’s smartphones have been using the company’s proprietary Lightning connector since 18. The USB-C port is now more popular than ever, and includes most of Apple’s other products. In recent years, consumers, reviewers, as well as government regulators, have called on Apple to abandon Lightning in favor USB-C.
This has led Apple to a tough spot, with three possible paths forward, each with some significant downsides.
On one hand, the company could stick with Lightning–that would mean that customers who’ve been using the iPhone for a while wouldn’t have to buy new adapters, wires, or chargers. Apple’s accessory-makers would not have to go back on the drawing board to create new products for the new connection.
On the other, Apple could switch to USB-C, making the iPhone play more nicely with other gadgets, including the Mac. However, this move could cause confusion among accessory-makers and consumer confusion. This would also allow Apple to loosen its control over user experience.
The third option would be to go all-wireless, but wireless connections usually don’t transmit power or data as quickly or efficiently.
According to Bloomberg’s sources, Apple is actively testing the second option–switching to USB-C–in no small part


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For Greek fruit exporter Proto, the kiwi season is over. Although kiwis is their major product, they still export plenty of other fruits across the globe. The strawberry season is still going, but the quantities are bit lower than expected.
Nick Pardalis is the QA Manager for Proto, according to him the strawberry season has not been very satisfying so far: “This season we noticed a decrease in production overall. The past two weeks there was a drop in productivity of 60 per cent. The season isn’t fully over yet though, the harvest is expected to continue until the end of May. We haven’t been completely happy with the quality of the strawberries this year either, so there is room for improvement for the next season. This year the weather has been rainy, slightly more than the average, which could also have played a role in the outcome.”
Proto exports its strawberries to the Balkans, mostly. When asked about any competition from Egypt, Pardalis isn’t too worried on the short term: “Egypt is indeed growing in the strawberry sector, but it will take time before they become a main competitor for Greece. Besides Greek packers export to clientele with high demands in certifications and ethical audits, so I am not aware of how the Egyptians handle this aspect of the business. They are a player to keep an eye on for sure.”


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A service highlighting the riches of the daily press.
Paper Monitor has that Friday feeling. The working week is almost done and thoughts turn to a little high-living.
After a week living off the meagre rations of Paper Monitor's store cupboard, perhaps a slap-up meal is in order. But what should be on the menu?
Keen followers of the UK's media may be a tad confused about what exactly is healthy, given the seemingly endless stream of conflicting reports that appear on a daily basis.
So full marks to the Daily Express, which tries to spell out the facts and bust the myths about "superfoods". (How Paper Monitor detests these trendy terms).
Popeye, it turns out, was a fraud. Spinach is "not so super", according to nutritionist Angela Dowden.
While high in iron and said to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer and certain eye problems, it seems curly kale is better - and you would have to eat up to five servings per week to feel the benefit. (Paper Monitor's better half might object on environmental grounds).
Others branded "not so super" are soy - including those painfully fashionable edamame beans, blueberries, extra virgin olive oil and, rather disappointingly, red wine.
Eggs, on the other hand, are "worth it". It seems warnings about them being high in cholesterol have been brushed aside since they "contain a substance that blocks the absorption of cholesterol into the blood stream".
Ingredients left on the menu include oily fish, avocados, pomegranates and baked beans. This could be an interesting meal.
Paper Monitor was already recovering from last week's news that potatoes were turning purple.
Now the Daily Mail has news that sprouts, are also changing colour.
A new variety of the vegetable, the red sprout, is expected to be a hit this year as it is supposedly milder and sweeter than the bitter-tasting traditional green version.
"Bitter-tasting?" What an outrageous suggestion. And it gets worse. Just a few pages later, Anne Shooter extols the virtues of all foods purple, on grounds that they "tend to particularly healthy as they contain anthocyanins... powerful antioxidants which protect cells from damage and so may prevent cancer".
There are recipes for Purple Soup - featuring those new-fangled spuds, Mauve fishcakes with roast chips, Purple Carrot Cake and Blackberry Fool.
These fashion foods have given Paper Monitor a headache and that Friday feeling is but a distant memory.
The only remedy must be a nice cup of old-fashioned English breakfast tea. Hang on, the nutritionist's verdict on a cuppa: "Not so super?" Crushed.


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Barclaycard’s reward scheme, Barclaycard Freedom, has launched this morning with cardholders able to earn reward money when using their credit card to buy goods and services in participating outlets.
Shell, with over 900 petrol stations across the UK, is the latest partner to join the scheme, alongside Goldsmiths, F Hinds and Firebox.com.
Barclaycard cardholders will earn 1% in most participating outlets, but 0.5% at Shell, alongside other special promotions and discounts in store. Reward Money is recorded in pounds and pence and customers can see what they have earned at the point of sale before they have entered their pin. They can redeem them on that transaction or keep saving.
Shell UK Retail general manager Melanie Lane said: “Barclaycard Freedom is simple and easy to use, which is important for busy people on the move.”
From today 30,000 outlets are involved with Shell the latest partner to join the scheme. No other named retailers have been announced yet. Over 8 million people are Barclaycard holders.


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I had no idea what a Tim Hortons was. The initial news report I read said a Canadian chain which sold coffee and doughnuts. I was quite intrigued. Was this going to be a sophisticated coffee place? They have a number of outlets already in the UK, so I checked the website.
Ah well looking at the menu, yes they sell coffee, yes they sell doughnuts, but it looks much more like a burger chain than a coffee chain.
According to an article in the Evening Standard Prezzo in Weston-super-Mare is to close. Obviously it is closed now due to Covid restrictions, but is now not going to reopen.
Prezzo in WSM is part of the Dolphin Square development, we’ve already seen Pizza Express next door, shut. Loco Mexicana has moved from their unit to a new one on the seafront. T-Bone and Luda have also closed. That leaves just Costa at the back and Nandos on the corner still “open”. The Cineworld has closed due to Covid, as had clip and climb. Going forward what does this mean for the entire complex?
Causal dining chains in Weston have taken a hit across the town, as Frankie and Benny’s over at Flowerdown has also shut.
An opportunity in the future for independent restaurants perhaps? Or will people travel into Bristol or up to Cribbs Causeway when they want to go out to eat in the future?
So the cauliflower dish I have been getting from Marks and Spencer seems to have been taken off the shelves.
The Truffled Cauliflower Cheese described as cauliflower in a cheddar cheese and truffle sauce, topped with acheese, mushroom and chive ciabatta crumb was rather nice, and quick and easy just needing thirty minutes in the oven.
It was a really nice dish, plenty of cauliflower, nice sauce, good flavour of truffle. Though I think it needed more topping, this was more of a personal preference than a criticism.
Alas the last few times I have been to my local M&S there is no sign of it on the shelves, which was a pity. I didn’t think it was a seasonal dish, as it was there well before Christmas. There is a normal cauliflower cheese dish, but that doesn’t look the same and I suspect I would be disappointed.
The chain, which at the moment has 454 outlets across the UK, said it had cut a deal to reduce rent costs. It blamed the loss of income doe to Covid-19 and that these restaurants were no longer sustainable.
Though other restaurants opened in July, it was noticeable that Pizza Express didn’t and even with the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme starting on the 1st August, I noticed that many Pizza Express branches weren’t opening until the 13th August or later, losing the opportunity to get some additional sales in with the scheme. It was noticeable in Weston that all the restaurants in Dolphin Square are still closed despite the scheme.
Pizza Express was the third restaurant to open in Dolphin Square in November 2017, after Luda the bingo cafe and Nando’s. We’ve already lost Luda and T-Bone, and not all the spaces have been filled anyhow. Obviously the pandemic isn’t helping with the situation, but Nandos and Prezzo are still closed despite the Eat Out scheme being in operation. Loco Mexicano appears to be moving to the seafront, will they have two branches open in Weston, that appears to be unlikely as they are literally just metres apart!
I do think the Dolphin Square development will struggle in the future and I am not sure there is anything the council can do about it as well. It looks like
As for that branch of Pizza Express in Weston, I think I may have eaten their just twice. Once for a quick lunch (with a special offer from Three) and once for a family meal.
Given the choice we usually opted for the Prezzo as it had more choices on the menu and not just pizza. Having said that we’ve eaten at a fair few Pizza Expres
Walking around Bristol the other day I noticed that Carluccio’s in Quakers Friar had closed.
Doing a Google search I found out that according to one news article, it was said The Quakers Friars branch will close on Sunday, January 6.
I have walked around there before, but hadn’t noticed.
Though I have eaten at Carluccio’s before, it wasn’t a place I frequented. As I said in a recent blog post after a visit to a branch in London earlier this year.
It has been nearly ten years since I visited a branch of Carluccio’s. I do like Italian food, but I’ve not really had the inclination to visit Carluccio’s in that time. Their menu always looks interesting, but for quick lunches it was always on the pricey side.
You can probably guess that I had never been to the Quakers Friar branch in Bristol. I wonder how long it will remain empty for?
I really don’t like the sound of blue honey, it may be peculiar to the British about this dislike of blue food, older people may recall the “missing” blue smarties that could be found in tubes of European smarties, but were not to be found in the tubes sold in the UK. Eventually blue smarties did find their way to the UK.


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Nokia 3310 (2017), which is a revamped version of the iconic Nokia 3310 phone, is available in India at Rs 3310.
Idea’s offer comes at a time when Flipkart is hosting its Big 10 sale, offering deals across various product categories including ‘Mobiles & Tablets’, .
Samsung managed to rake in one month’s numbers during the first three days of the Flipakrt Big 10 sale.
Flipkart’s Big 10 sale is on, and here are deals on the Apple iPhone 7, iPhone 5s, Moto G5 Plus, Google Pixel and more
Flipkart Big 10 sale is now live, and will go on till May 18. The ‘Mobile & Tablets’ and ‘Electronics’ categories will open May 15.
Flipkart’s the “Big 10” sale starts from 12 am (midnight) and will last till May 18.
Flipkart has announced the launch of Samsung 32-inch Basic Smart TV, which will be available during platform’s Big 10 sale.
Flipkart has announced its ‘Summer Shopping Days’ sale from May 2 to May 4, offering deals on mobile phones, laptops, appliances, wearables and more.
The board of Snapdeal is expected to meet today to discuss the potential sale of India’s third largest e-commerce firm to larger rival Flipkart.
Lenovo is celebrating its third anniversary in India with ‘Lenovo Days’ offer on Flipkart from April 18 to April 19.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 gets a 5.5-inch Full HD display with a 2.5D arc glass design on top. It has a metal unibody design with a curved back.
Flipkart has announced ‘Samsung Mobile Fest’ with offers on Samsung’s popular budget, mid-range and premium phones.
SoftBank Group Corp.’s Masayoshi Son and Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos are heading for a clash in India.
Flipkart is hosting its ‘Electronics Sale’ from March 22 to March 24, where it will offer deals and discounts across various categories.
Snapdeal denies any sale talks but, ultimately, it looks to have the weakest hand in the country.


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On Monday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) disclosed that Midwestern Pet Foods is recalling more dog foods after reports that over 70 dogs died after consuming the company’s products. Eighty more dogs that consumed the products were also sick, according to the FDA.
The FDA’s announcement also revealed that the products being recalled are pet food products of the company that were produced in its Oklahoma plant and contains corn. The products, which are about 19 in number, will expire on or before July 2, 2022, the FDA stated. The reason for the recall is based on the assumption that the animals are dying from aflatoxin poisoning.
Aflatoxin is a type of mold that grows on corn and other grains, which are ingredients frequently used to make food for pets. The FDA explained that when consumed in great quantities, aflatoxin can make animals very sick or even kill them. Last month, the Missouri Department of Agriculture announced that samples from Midwestern’s Oklahoma manufacturing plant showed substantial aflatoxin levels.
Shortly after the announcement, the company recalled nine of its dog and cat food products. At the time the recall was issued, the FDA had gotten reports of the death of 28 dogs that had consumed the products. Another eight dogs were reported to be ill at the time, the FDA said. Now, the company is expanding the list as more deaths and illnesses have been reported, Fox Business reports.
The FDA stated that not all the deaths might be from aflatoxin poisoning, as investigations into the deaths are still ongoing, but it is still urging pet owners to throw the affected products away. The agency cautioned that even if the mold is not noticeable in the products, they can still be toxic to the animals.
According to the FDA, some of the symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning include sluggishness, an unexplained disinterest in food, vomiting, signs of liver damage, and/or incessant stooling. The agency announced that animals that have liver damage will have a yellow tinge in their eyes and gums but this might not happen in all cases, as some pets might have damaged livers without showing any signs.
The FDA stated that unlike humans, pets are more prone to aflatoxin poisoning because they consume the same food. If such a product is poisoned, a pet continues to take in the toxin until it falls sick or dies.
Midwestern has urged pet owners who purchased the products to properly clean and decontaminate bowls and parts of their houses where they stored the products. The FDA also urged pet owners to schedule a visit to a vet, particularly for those that their pets are exhibiting any of the symptoms associated with aflatoxin.
The federal health agency cautioned pet owners to properly wash their hands after handling the products, but it stated that it has not been established that humans can be affected.


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(Natural News) A new type of rice could soon be joining the usual brown and white varieties on the shelves of your grocery store: purple rice. Chinese scientists have developed a type of rice through genetic modification that they say can lower your risk of some types of cancer and diabetes. On the surface, this sounds like a winning proposition – and for those who sell the rice, it very well could be. However, there are a few reasons you might want to think twice before eating this colorful grain.
The science backing the benefits of the compound that colors this rice is pretty solid. The rice gets its violet hue from anthocyanins, a type of pigment that boosts antioxidants. It is naturally abundant in certain fruits and vegetables, and it has indeed been shown to have numerous health benefits. In addition to their protective effect against diabetes and cancer, anthocyanins have also been linked in studies to lower risks of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease and neurological disease. In addition, they have a strong anti-inflammatory action and can even help control or prevent obesity.
This is certainly an impressive list of benefits, but why would anyone want to eat genetically engineered rice made using a system called TransGene Stacking II when they could get the same effects from the foods that grow naturally on our earth?
This food is far from natural, and scientists have gone to great lengths to create it. Past attempts to engineer the production of anthocyanin in rice were unsuccessful because of difficulties transferring the genes into plants effectively.
Researchers are still assessing the safety of this Frankenfood, but it could end up being about as good for you as purple ketchup. No one knows what long-term effects consuming these lab-created foods could have on the human body. A similar attempt at enriching rice through genetic modification, golden rice, ended up being a huge flop that ultimately made headlines for its connection to birth defects rather than saving the world. (Click to Site)


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Last night, some GREATNESS went down at Sotheby’s in NYC. For starters, Barnett Newman’s Onement VI (above) sold not only over the high estimate, but sold over the artists’s highest record at auction for his painting for 43,845,000 USD (Hammer Price with Buyer’s Premium).
Gerhard Richter’s Domplatz (above) did not break the high estimate but still took in a hefty 37,125,000 USD. Not too shabby, Richter.
Francis Bacon’s Study for a portrait of his lover did not sell. And I am not shocked – I even predicted this myself. Last time Bacon paintings were at auction with Sotheby’s (this year) they did not sell either. Perhaps this indicates people do not want to look at twisted psychological portraits of others… But I still respect Bacon. Maybe in a few years his work’s will pick back up in the auction world.
Well, while Sotheby’s was hoping to bring in close to 400 million with this auction, they barely made it to 300 million. But hey, that’s the art market. You never know what to expect. For the rest of the results check them out here. It is shocking to see Warhol, Basquiat, and even Rothko not selling. WHO DOESN’T WANT A WORK FROM ONE OF THESE FABULOUSSSSSS MEN? This is not to say the market is not in favour of them, for if anything, I believe these men, especially Basquiat currently is being highly sought after.
So right now all we have are these results. Until ze next auction!
And mazel to those who purchased some EXTRAORDINARY art.
Catch you later kids.


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Sony has given up selling its line of Reader devices for e-books after failing to find a big enough market.
"We do not have plans to develop a successor Reader model at this time," the Japanese firm told the BBC.
The PRS-T3 was the last version made and will exist as long as supplies remain in Europe.
Earlier this year, Sony pulled out of selling e-books and directed its users in the US and Europe to the e-bookstore of rival Kobo.
North American customers using Sony Readers have been directed to buy books from Kobo since February this year, and European and Australian customers since May, a Sony spokeswoman said.
But users in Japan, Sony's home country, can continue to still get its line of Readers and access Sony's Reader Store.
The news was first reported by German site Lesen.
The dominance of Amazon's range of Kindles and the growing smartphone, tablet and so-called phablet market have made it hard for Sony's suite of e-readers and rivals like Nook to carve out a niche for themselves. According to The Bookseller, Amazon has around 90% of the dedicated e-reader market in the UK.
Canadian firm Kobo was bought by Japanese e-commerce company Rakuten, which is looking to grow its business globally in a bid to challenge Amazon.
The global market in dedicated e-readers peaked in 2011 with 23 million devices sold, but is expected to fall to 10 million by 2017 as phones and tablets eat into the overall market, according to the research consultancy Gartner.
Still, the sale of printed books will be outstripped by e-books by 2018, a report by Pricewaterhouse Coopers suggested.


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The U.S. widened a lead in mobile patents final year and IBM took a tip mark in new patents postulated in that space, according to a report this week that analyzed information from both a U.S. and Europe.
While a series of mobile patents postulated by a U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) jumped by 17 percent between 2013 and 2014, a sum fell by 4 percent during a European Patent Office (EPO), according to Chetan Sharma Consulting. The U.S. continued to benefit on Europe as a place where mobile inventions are devised, a trend driven by program growth in Silicon Valley and Americans’ complicated use of mobile data, a news said.
The mobile bang is a large partial of U.S. creation right now. Fully 26 percent of all patents released by a USPTO final year were for mobile technologies, while usually about one in 10 patents released in Europe fell into that category, a news said.
The flourishing U.S. lead in mobile creation comes as a mobile attention starts to conclude a subsequent vital set of standards, called 5G. The progressing 2G, 3G and 4G standards took figure when Europe played a stronger purpose in mobile, though a U.S. started to come into a possess in a center of a final decade, according to Sharma. Now European attention and supervision are perplexing to work together to make certain they aren’t left behind in 5G development.
While South Korea’s Samsung has a world’s biggest mobile obvious portfolio, IBM is removing some-more patents postulated now: It surpassed Samsung to take a tip mark for 2014. Qualcomm came in third place, followed by Microsoft and Google. About half of a tip 50 companies winning mobile patents over a past few years are formed in a U.S., a news said.
Also in 2014, Apple entered a tip 10 for mobile patents released during a year. It had a eighth-most patents granted. But Apple still doesn’t have one of a 10 biggest portfolios.


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Its not just COVID-19 that is plaguing the world this year. The gaming industry, too, appears to be affected by an issue that will not cease to stop unless handled. In particular, an issue with faulty controllers that see ghost movements even without user input.
Not a paranormal thing
The issue is not necessarily uncanny, despite the label. But its spooky nonetheless, especially to anyones wallet, that it makes a serious concern to those who experience it. The scare factor boiling down on the …
Amazon Echo Dot with Clock review: A mostly aesthetic update – TechCrunch
It’s been a busy few weeks for smart speakers. Amazon kicked things off in late September with newer, rounder versions of both the Echo and Echo Dot. Less than …
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Amazon, for its part, has easily offered the most regular refreshes of the three. Both the Echo and Echo Dot are curren…
AMD Ryzen 5000U once again leaks a boost line that mixes Zen 2 and Zen 3 architectures – re:Jerusalem
AMD announced on October 8 its new Zen 3 architecture and Ryzen 5000 processors, which promise performance gains of up to 20% over its predecessors in the Ryzen…
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Rumors Oct 13
Releases 16 oct.
With Zen 3 finally among us, new information is starting to emerge, this time related t…
‘Pokémon Go’ Halloween 2020 Event to Bring Galarian Yamask, Shiny Spiritomb & More – Newsweek
Enjoy an Alolan Marowak Raid Day and the Halloween Cup during the game’s festivities.
Niantic has finally revealed its plans for its annual Halloween event in Pokémon Go and it brings new challenges, Shiny forms and Pokémon.
Monday, the official Pokémon Goblog detailed what trainers can expect from the Halloween event this year starting with when it releases in the mobile game, which is Friday, October 23 starting at 9 p.m. EDT. The event will last until Tuesday, November 3 at 9 p.m. EDT.
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Announcing the expansion at MIPTV in Cannes, Popcornflix said its Middle-Eastern footprint includes Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, while in Latin America the service is available in countries including Mexico and Argentina.
The other four new launch markets are Poland, Russia, Turkey and China.
“Today’s audiences increasingly want to watch content on their own terms, however they want, wherever they are. Popcornflix is dedicated to making our content widely available, not only across platforms, but across continents. We are enthusiastic to engage a new set of users, eager for free and easily accessible movies and television,” said David Fannon, executive vice-president at Popcornflix.
US-based Popcornflix is already available across North America and last year launched in the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, Australia and New Zealand. The service is ad-supported and available to watch on a number of devices, including games consoles, smart TVs, Roku boxes and iOS and Android devices.
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27 October 2021 @ 20:28:00 UTC
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27 October 2021 @ 15:34:00 UTC


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Griffon Corp. said Tuesday it will sell $100 million in convertible subordinated notes due in 2017 to institutional buyers.
The communications and electronic information, building products and specialty plastics business expects to grant the initial purchasers of the notes a 30-day otion to buy another $15 million in debt.
It will add the proceeds to the $321 million in cash it had at Sept. 30. Griffon will use those funds for general corporate purposes, including working capital, repaying or repurchasing corporate debt, or investments or acquisitions.
Griffon said it will negotiate the interest rate, conversion rate, and other terms with the purchasers.
Griffon shares fell 9 cents to close at $12.12 before the announcement. In late trading, they fell 77 cents, or 6.4 percent, to $11.35.


text: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT–First Boat Completed Under Prototype BoatCredit Facility Loan Program Nova Scotia’s boat builders are sailing into new markets withsupport from the Nova Scotia government. The newly redesigned Cabot 36, a classic blue water sailboat, wasrelaunched at the Halifax International Boat Show today, Feb. 17,by YachtSmiths International Inc. of Dartmouth, nearly 30 yearsafter its predecessor was unveiled to the public. “The Cabot is the realization of a dream for us and we have aproduction boat to offer to our markets in America and Europe,”said Brian Smyth, managing partner of YachtSmiths International.”Thanks to the help of the Prototype Boat Credit Facility loan,in little more than three months we were able to prepare themold, complete our re-designs and build this boat. It is quite anaccomplishment for a small firm like ours and our team did aterrific job.” The redesign of the craft was made possible by a repayable loanunder the $1.5-million Prototype Boat Credit Facility announcedby Premier John Hamm last July. “The loan program offers new opportunities for boat builders withthe assistance of the provincial government and its partners,”said Economic Development Minister Ernest Fage. “In recent yearsthe industry has increased its capacity by more than 500 directand spin-off jobs and increased sales to $80 million.” “The future of Nova Scotia’s boat building industry relies on thedesign and technology innovations of the industry supported bythis loan program,” said acting Agriculture and FisheriesMinister Richard Hurlburt. “YachtSmiths International has taken anew vision of the Cabot 36 and turned it into a dynamic offeringof Nova Scotia’s boat building industry.” The Prototype Boat Credit Facility loan program provides membersof the Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association with financing forthe design, construction and sea trials of new or improved boatsthat are targeted to the export market, recreational boating andcoastal fisheries. The Office of Economic Development underwrites the loan program,and the Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board, throughthe Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, oversees it byproviding technical support to ensure designs meet currentstandards. “While all of these partners make the program possible, it’s thevision and expertise of boat builders like YachtSmithsInternational, the designing partner, that make vessels like theCabot 36 a reality,” said Tim Edwards, executive director of theNova Scotia Boatbuilders Association. The public has an opportunity to see the Cabot 36 at the 2005Halifax International Boat Show, which opened today at noon andruns until 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 20 at Exhibition Park.


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How effective is your company at being a truly regional company in terms of offering services across Asia?
Agility can boast close to 8,000 employees in Asia Pacific in 24 countries, close to 180 offices and 900,000 sq m of warehousing.
In recent years Agility has made significant investments in the China and India markets to build distribution networks, while in southeast Asia our cross-border road network is providing opportunities for its customers to access markets in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and into southwest China.
“These emerging trade channels are supporting the development of new opportunities,” says Jens Wessel, svp of sales and marketing for Agility in Asia Pacific. Agility has also recently opened up an office in Myanmar.
“Emerging markets are our enduring focus,” says Wessel, “but we have also made significant gains in other areas, including in the chemicals and resources logistics sector worldwide, which will continue through 2012.”
“In order for Asia to remain competitive,” suggest Wessel, “our customers are looking for labour arbitrage to be complemented by productivity.”
Quite so, agrees Weiss Rohlig’s managing director Holger Stoelker. “Our core values for this are speed, flexibility and efficiency and also to be distinctive. We believe here in flat management hierarchies and quick decisions,” he says.
Stoelker maintains that the market has changed to quick transactional decisions required by the service provider.
“With our network coverage of the major markets across Asia, we can cover all important trades,” he says.
In 2008, Barloworld Logistics acquired a small freight forwarding company to understand the market. The company that it bought had been operating in the region for the last three decades and offers services not only in Asia but also globally. The entire workforce is Chinese speaking with an extensive knowledge of local markets.
“There is no doubt that we are capable of offering effective services across Asia,” says William Tang, MD of Barloworld Logistics, Far East.
“Clients are extremely price-sensitive particularly the small and medium sized companies. The larger companies expect prices to be fixed for 12 months for both air and sea freight. With the current market conditions it is difficult to deliver at the level the client expects for the transport costs they offer,” he says.
“Our vision,” he continues, “is to provide smart supply chain solutions through strategic partnerships with leading clients and key suppliers.” Integrated supply chain solutions include warehousing and distribution, dedicated transport services, transportation management services, freight forwarding, and supply chain software.
Traditionally Barloworld has only focused on freight forwarding, but it is now in a position to offer end-to-end supply chain solutions from network design and S&OP planning to final mile delivery to point of consumption.
“The future belongs to supply chains and the more agile and faster the supply chain, the more competitive is the brand,” maintains Tang.
“With the strongest distribution network across Greater China and the ASEAN markets, plus the region’s most extensive hub operations, we are serving tens of thousands of outlets every day. We have the reliability and flexibility to support our customers’ growth anywhere in Asia,” says a spokesperson for Kerry Logistics.
What are your customers asking for in the current economic climate?
The source at Kerry Logistics says customers are asking for a cheaper form of transport, which leads to a move away from air towards sea freight or road express and minimising overall cost in the entire supply chains as a result of the drop of export and cargo volumes.
Customers are indeed focusing more on improving their operational efficiency and reducing costs across the supply chain to stay in the race, concurs Barloworld’s Tang. Suppliers’ margins are down to the “bare minimum”, he says, and suppliers are hardly in a position to bring meaningful savings.
“If you look at the logistics industry the number of acquisitions, mergers and closures in that market is a testimony to the real pressure under which companies are operating,” Tang says. “The real savings are not in squeezing suppliers for a few percentage points of savings but by stepping back, taking a holistic view of the entire supply chain, thinking innovatively and looking for synergies.”
With freight rates being unstable, Agility says some of its customers are looking to manage their risk through competitive rates and consistency with the current uncertainty in the market.
“Customers are increasingly asking for flexibility, both in terms of product and solutions, but also in terms of geographies,” says Agility’s Wessel.
What are your medium term business plans?
Kerry’s spokesperson says the Robert Kuok-controlled firm is on the look out for possible mergers and acquisitions to strengthen local and regional capabilities. Kerry is also opening a new green logistics centre at the end of this year in Singapore.
As per supplychainforesight’s recent survey, China invests currently 33% of its total outbound investments for Africa on infrastructure development. Other main investment flows involve the mining sector (40.74%), business services (21.58%) and finance (16.4%). There is more trade likely to take place between China and Africa. As an African supply chain management company, Barloworld sees a bright future in this tradelane.
“Our immediate plans are to offer reliable logistics and freight forwarding solutions to the Chinese companies doing business with Africa,” says Tang.
What human resource issues do you have in Asia?
“The rapid pace of development in China, size of the economy, vast terrain, increasing complexities in the supply chain have also resulted in a shortfall of skilled logistics professionals,” admits Barloworld’s Tang.
This is not just a China issue, however. “Finding and keeping talent is an industry wide issue in Asia and we have embarked on an in-house programme across the region to identify and nurture talent through our management training programme,” says Agility’s Wessel. It is a continuous learning process that allows young logistics professionals to develop and learn in a fast changing industry.
Echoing these comments is the source from Agility who says, “Finding the right talents to support our continual growth in the region is a challenge. Hence, we have launched a comprehensive management trainee program since 2011 to recruit young talents around the world and equip them with all-rounded training. Many of them are senior managers in the group overseeing regional businesses today.”
“The main issue here is to find talented people,” says Weiss Rohlig’s Stoelker. “At the current stage it is very difficult to interest people for our industry. The challenge here is to find middle management staff. Our approach is to train and build up our own staff and try to retain them.”


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Check out some of this week's top headlines from across Manufacturing.net, from a high-tech bathroom upgrade to the Jeep that will be made in Italy.
The $1 billion appropriation would create a series of 45 advanced manufacturing centers designed...
The company says it wants people to “make manufacturing local again,” and positions the device...
At nearly $10 billion a year, the R&D tax credit is one of the biggest incentives available...
A new generation of toilets may one day make toilet paper seem like chamber pots and outhouses.
Dr. Michael Heggeness is working on a $1.6 million research product — a "bone putty" — that could be a viable alternative to typical treatment options for combat-related trauma issues.
There is simply no rebranding effort where the stakes are not extraordinarily high and the margin for error is slim at best.
Check out some of this week's top headlines from across Manufacturing.net, from a phone that can self-destruct from an airplane manufacturer to more stress for Detroit from the United Auto Workers union.
When Boa-Franc, a leading North American manufacturer of pre-finished hardwood floors, was looking to enhance its ERP and CRM software, it partnered with Edgewater Fullscope for help with Microsoft Dynamics AX and Dynamics CRM.
The tweaks mean smartphone photos, ubiquitous nowadays because of social media such as Facebook and Twitter, will be closer in quality to images captured by digital single-lens reflex cameras, also known as DSLR.
The aerospace company is now developing an Android-based smartphone, codenamed “Black,” that will self-destruct if a third party attempts to break in and extract its secrets.
The company claims that without a bridge and crew support systems, ships would be 5 percent lighter before loading cargo and would burn 12 percent to 15 percent less fuel during their trips.
The sensor brings convenience for entering passcodes and could encourage more people to lock their phones. But fingerprint security isn't foolproof. Here's what to know as you consider whether to place your trust in it.
The Q-Warrior features a full-color and high-luminance see-through display that is able to project symbols and videos directly onto the field of battle. This could include waypoints, other points of interest or even areas/buildings housing known enemies.
The President has announced the Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute (DMDI), which will be headquartered in Chicago, Ill., and funded via a $70 million grant that state and private entities will match to the tune of $250 million.
Samsung's glitzy announcement during the Mobile World Congress wireless show in Barcelona, Spain, made it harder for other phone makers to get noticed. The Galaxy S5 will feature a heart-rate monitor, a fingerprint sensor for security and a sharper camera with faster auto focus.
The White House announced Sunday the The American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), set to open this spring in metro Detroit. It’s the latest hub in the Obama administration’s National Network of Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), and it’s expected to bring 10,000 jobs to the region within the next five years.
To celebrate 30 years of developing plastic bearings, igus has retrofitted a car with 56 of its iglide bearings and sent the vehicle off on a multi-continent journey to showcase their benefits in demanding applications. The components have been fitted into all areas of the car, including the pedals, alternator, window regulators, convertible top, gearshift, and more.
At the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) this past January, there was no shortage of high-tech watches, glasses, and hats for entertainment and fitness applications. They often feature video and audio capabilities and internet connectivity, in a compact and portable package. But can wearables make the transition from recreation to business?
Today’s workforce looks very different than it did a few decades ago. Young professionals no longer stay at one job for 30 or more years – the average tenure in 2012 was closer to five years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
You may get your product faster and cheaper, but manufacturing overseas has its pitfalls. Through a combination of one of the new manufacturing trends, “new-shoring” — creating new jobs closer to home — and smarter international manufacturing practices, small businesses are helping protect their valuable assets.
When Coca-Cola said this week that it would let people make its drinks at home using a beverage machine, it became the latest company to take advantage of a growing trend: People turning to flavored drops or at-home carbonation machines that do away with the need to haul home bulky cans and bottles from the supermarket.
We, as engineers, all play a vital role in the world actually functioning. Without these job roles being fulfilled by skilled people, the world would start to break down slowly. A world without engineering would be a world without humanity, our ability to design and create makes us unique in the natural world.
Buyers from around North America spent four days checking out products for the 2014-15 season at the annual SnowSports Industries America trade show that ended Sunday. They saw few big surprises, but a lot of continuing innovation.
During the last couple years there's been a growing trend among NHL players trying to protect their lower legs from skate blades. Several manufacturers produce these high-tech socks using a variety of material — including Kevlar and copper — to save calf muscles, Achilles tendons and a player's feet.
The Accelerating Medicines Partnership, announced Tuesday, will focus on the early part of drug research: identifying biological targets present in a disease, such as abnormal genes or particular proteins.
Every brand wants to be this year's Oreo. Brands are setting up social media "war rooms" so they can respond to memorable events as they happen — be it another blackout, a snow storm or a wardrobe malfunction — with clever, retweetable quips.
The growing trend could mean roughly 1,000 chimps in the U.S. used for research or warehoused for many years in laboratory cages could be "retired" to sanctuaries by around 2020. The trend is driven by improved technology, animal alternatives and pressure from animal rights groups, the National Institutes of Health and Congress.
Toshiba International Corporation (TIC) today announced a five-year commitment to the Next Generation Power Electronics Manufacturing Innovation Institute, a research and development consortium backed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
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ANDERSON — Bringing a new grocery store to the city’s west side requires the convergence of several factors, including housing density within a 5-mile radius of Edgewood Plaza, the desirable socioeconomics of the residents and the business goals of existing grocers or co-op operators, city officials said.
Economic Development Director Greg Winkler and Economic Development Specialist Levi Rinker said they have been working diligently for years to attract a grocer to the west side, but without the right mix of these factors, attracting one has proven to be an extremely hard sell.
“Of all the endeavors I have undertaken, attracting a grocery store to the west side of Anderson, or even downtown, has been the toughest assignment I’ve been given,” Winkler said.
They maintain an ongoing list of grocers they have wooed, a list that now stands at about 70, including some from the East Coast hoping to expand to the Midwest.
“I’ve basically had the Kroger’s rep say, ‘Don’t call me again. I’ll call you,’” Winkler said. “I look at the numbers, and it’s hard for me to see why someone would say no.”
But even incentives offered by the city, including a building and tax abatements, have not been enough to entice a grocer.
“The response is, ‘Wait, I’ve still got to stock it,’” Winkler said. “The problem is finding the opportunity and what tips them toward us.”
Playing on the need of the area has been a challenge, Rinker said. Grocers have responded that since they already are selling to westside residents, the drive clearly makes no difference.
“Stopping and getting groceries at Meijer, it’s inconvenient, but it’s not stopping people from getting food,” he said.
In fact, Winkler said, much of the food need on the west side is fulfilled by food from restaurants, delivery by services such as GrubHub and meal kits. That also cuts into potential grocery sales.
“The amount of eating out was not a whole lot less than the grocery number,” he said. “We actually are to the point that we’re eating out more than buying groceries.”
Housing density also attracts anchor retailers that act as a magnet for shoppers, which affects drive counts, another predictor of grocery success, Rinker said. The larger westside neighborhoods with higher housing densities lie to the east of the area heading toward Broadway Street, Rinker said.
“Obviously, the more dense an area, the more attractive it is,” he said.
Most grocers want to see intersections that attract 25,000 a day, but the Edgewood area attracts only about 6,000.
That’s why so many retailers are clustered on Scatterfield Road near Interstate 69, where an estimated 60,000 cars pass by daily, according to Indiana Department of Transportation statistics. And they are reaping the expected sales exactly where they are, Winkler said.
“It’s a no-brainer on I-69,” he said. “Why would they compete against themselves? And I’ve heard grocers literally say that.”
That also presents a sort of chicken and egg problem. Winkler said he’s been told by three unique sit-down restaurant operators they would open on the west side if there were a grocery store.
Among the greatest challenges is the varied socio-economic status of the west side’s 13,746 residents, Rinker and Winkler said. They include a range of five different types of households, including young families in extreme poverty to middle-class General Motors retirees who refuse to move and those with old money who live near the Anderson Country Club.
“(The grocers) have a different list of profiles they’re looking for. We all want to think we’re unique, but there are 63 types of people out there,” Rinker said. “When we look at trying to attract someone specific, we have to decide who we are.”
Having so many different types makes it difficult for grocers, who already complain of really tight profit margins, to know what they should carry to attract the most shoppers, Rinker said.
“They are not behaving, buying the products the grocers see fit,” he said. “Are you going to shop a Sav-a-Lot when you really want a higher-end cocktail sauce?”


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Republic Industries Inc. said Thursday that its losses widened in the fourth quarter as it took one-time charges related to its $625-million purchase of Alamo Rent-a-Car Inc. and other companies.
The diversified holding company based in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., said its losses grew to $96.6 million, or 38 cents a share, in the fourth quarter from $8.3 million, or 3 cents a share, in the year-ago period. Revenue jumped 51%, to $663 million from $438 million.
Republic, led by billionaire H. Wayne Huizenga, recently bought several car dealerships, including used-car retailer AutoNation USA, to build up its auto finance business. It also operates solid waste, electronic security and out-of-home media subsidiaries.
Analysts expected Republic Industries to earn 6 cents a share.
Excluding the results of Alamo, which Republic bought in November, and other one-time charges announced previously, the company earned $16 million, or 6 cents per share, for the fourth quarter, in line with analysts' expectations, it said.
In December, Republic took a $32-million after-tax charge to refinance debt assumed in connection with the Alamo deal. Another pretax charge of about $88 million was taken mainly to integrate Alamo with Republic and pay expenses related to the acquisitions of Addington Resources Inc. and Continental Waste Industries Inc.
Republic's shares fell 31.25 cents to close at $39.75 in Nasdaq trading.
At a Glance:
Maytag Corp's. fourth-quarter profit rose 14% on strong sales of its Hoover floor-care products and major appliances. The maker of Maytag brand dishwashers and laundry machines said net income rose to $35.4 million, or 36 cents a share, compared with profit from operations of $31 million, or 29 cents, in the year-ago period.
MGM Grand Inc.'s fourth-quarter earnings rose 17% before charges related to pre-opening costs of the New York-New York hotel and casino in Las Vegas. The Las Vegas-based company said profit from operations rose to $24 million, or 50 cents a share, from net income of $20.6 million, or 42 cents, a year earlier.
Dow Chemical Co. said fourth-quarter earnings fell to $409 million, or $1.69 a share, from $415 million, or $1.63, in the year-ago quarter.
Baxter International Inc. reported that fourth-quarter profit fell following the spinoff of its hospital supply business, earning $158 million, or 58 cents a share, from $176 million, or 65 cents, in the year-ago quarter.
Quarterdeck Corp. reported fourth-quarter net income of $20,000, or 0 cents per share, compared with $2.8 million, or 8 cents, in the year-ago quarter.
Revlon reported fourth-quarter net income of $30.9 million, or 60 cents per share, compared with $3.8 million, or 9 cents, a year ago.
Reebok International Ltd. said its fourth-quarter earnings plunged 43% to $20.1 million, or 35 cents a share, from profit from operations of $35 million, or 46 cents, a year earlier.
Manufactured Homes Communities Inc. said fourth-quarter funds from operations rose 18% to $10.9 million, or 40 cents a share, from $9.2 million, or 34 cents, a year ago.
Beverly Enterprises Inc. said its fourth-quarter earnings more than doubled, rising to $21.7 million, or 22 cents a share, from $9.71 million, or 10 cents, in the year-earlier quarter.
K-III Communications Corp. reported fourth-quarter net income of $87.9 million, or 32 cents per share, compared with $38.8 million, or 25 cents, a year ago.
Grubb & Ellis Co. reported fiscal second-quarter net income of $8.7 million, or 62 cents per share, up from $5.3 million, or 42 cents, a year ago.
First Fidelity Thrift & Loan reported fourth-quarter net income of $662,000, contrasted with a loss of $1.3 million in the year-ago quarter.


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Small-Business Assistance Programs offers one-time grants and flexible payment options
CHICAGO (Nov. 11, 2020) – With many restaurants, bars, retailers and other small businesses across northern Illinois struggling to stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic, ComEd today announced a new bill-assistance program to help eligible small businesses facing financial difficulties.
“Small and family-owned businesses are the backbone of our communities. When they struggle, our neighborhoods struggle.” said ComEd CEO Joe Dominguez. “By offering a new bill-assistance option targeting small and family-owned businesses, we hope to do our part to ensure that the businesses that we all love and depend upon continue to be a part of our lives.”
ComEd’s Small Business Assistance Program provides eligible small-business customers that are past due on their energy bills with a one-time grant equal to 30 percent of their total ComEd balance (up to $1,000) for a limited time. Customers whose electric service has not been disconnected can then set up their remaining balance due on a payment plan of up to six months.
Small-business customers can visit ComEd.com/SmallBizAssistance or call 1-877-4-COMED-1 (1-877-426-6331) to learn more or apply for the Small Business Assistance Program.
Earlier this week, ComEd announced its new Helping Hand program to provide more immediate aid to eligible residential customers most in need during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. For a limited time, this financial-assistance program provides an additional one-time grant of up to $300 to help reduce past-due balances of income-eligible customers.
Assistance through the Helping Hand program is administered directly through ComEd, which expedites the verification process so that customers can receive grants more quickly. Residential customers can apply for Helping Hand grants at ComEd.com/PaymentAssistance.
Assistance Options to Help Residential Customers
Helping Hand and the Small Business Assistance Program are the latest in a number of assistance options ComEd has developed since the pandemic to help customers, including a $18 million bill-payment assistance program for residential customers announced earlier this summer.
ComEd has continued the suspension of service disconnections for low-income customers and those who express a financial hardship through March 31, 2021. For other customers, it’s important that they continue to stay current to avoid higher past-due balances into the spring that will be harder to address.
ComEd’s bill-assistance programs also include flexible payment options, financial assistance for past-due balances and usage alerts for current bills. Any customer who is experiencing a hardship or difficulty with their electric bill should call ComEd immediately at 1-800-334-7661 (1-800-EDISON-1), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to learn more and enroll in a program.
ComEd also offers usage alerts and energy-management tips to help customers manage energy use to save money now and on future energy bills. For information, visit ComEd.com/OnlineTools.


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Several mockup prototypes of forthcoming system's wireless controller turned up at the Game Developer Conference.
SAN FRANCISCO—Sony offered a glimpse of a prototype of the controller for its forthcoming PlayStation 4 gaming console at the Game Developer Conference here last week.
Chis Norden, a senior staff engineer at Sony, showed off the controller and talked about its development in a scheduled presentation at GDC. Norden did not provide many more technical details than had previously been revealed when Sony announced the PS4 last month. Nor did he show a prototype of the console itself.
Of course, the big news from the PS4 launch last month was that Sony is ditching the infamous CELL processor and using an X86 CPU designed by Advanced Micro Devices Inc.
The design of the wireless controller for PlayStation 4 is similar to that used in its predecessor, the PlayStation 3. From a hardware perspective, the biggest change is the inclusion of a much more sensitive six-axis sensor gyroscope, said Aram Jabbari, a spokesman for Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEA).
The more sensitive sensor will give game developers "carte blanche to do motion," Jabbari said.
The PS4 controller features a new "share" button to allow gamers to more easily share highlights of their triumphs via Facebook.
While Jabbari said the prototype PS4 controller is subject to possible changes before it hits store shelves, the design is largely locked down. Jabbari said SCEA is now "showing the possibilities of what could be done" with extra motion sensitivity.
Another major change from the PS3 controller is that the PS4 prototype has a touch pad located on the front, offering gamers new ways to play and interact with games. Interactive gaming is a concept that Sony is pushing heavily with the new console launch.


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One of the most difficult things new farmers face is sales.
“It’s said that if you’re a farmer you have to spend 50 percent (of your time) farming, 50 percent marketing and 50 percent running your business,” Griffe Youngleson, CEO of Farmzie said, at the recent Local Food Security and Economic Development Roundtable hosted by EDA University Center at Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, NC.
Of course, that’s a mathematical impossibility. So, Farmzie decided to create a virtual farmstand....


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The House yesterday passed a bill that would establish interim emergency safety standards on the manufacture of home insulation.
The bill is similar to one that already has passed the Senate, and conferees hope to meet next week and eliminate the differences.
The legislation was spurred by several reports that untreated or improperly prepared cellulose insulation caused home fires. Congress decided to act because more than a year had passed after the reports of fire with no final act on by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The bill would force the CPSC to adopt an existing General Services Administration safety standard within 45 days of passage. The commission then would be able to conduct further study to see if that standard would have to be altered. Last month, the CPSC said it was abandoning its own efforts and would support congressional implementation of the GSA standard.
CPSC staffers have said that strict rules governing the development of safety standards prevented them from moving faster on the home insulation issue. The legislation that passed by voice vote yesterday provides short cuts around some of the time-consuming roadblocks in the Consumer Product Safety Act.
The major problem with home insulation is not with the reputable firms, said Sen. Wendell Ford (D-Ky.), who sponsored the legislation on the Senate side. "I'm concerned about the 600 new operations that have begun in the past 18 to 24 months, some using grinders in the back of a truck," Ford said.
Because several states offer incentives to save energy by insulating homes better, many consumers began adding insulation during the past two or three years.
Due to critical shortages in fiber-glass and other substances used for insulation, cellulose insulation was in great demand.Cellulose insulation is ground paper or wood treated with a flame-retardant chemical.
But improperly prepared cellulose insulation can cause home fires, and many of the new entrants into the cellulose manufacturing field are not treating the insulation with proper caution, according to a staff report from the House Interstate and Foreign Commerce Committee.


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US developer Hines on Tuesday announced its first logistics acquisition and development in Japan, a two-building project in the port city of Nagoya, to be called the Yatomi Distribution Center.
The project in Nagoya’s Yatomi city, consists of an existing single-storey warehouse with 25,000 square metres (269,098 square feet) of space and a development site where the Houston-based firm will construct a four-storey logistics building totalling 225,000 square metres. Groundbreaking on the project, which will target a LEED Silver sustainability certification, is expected in the second quarter, Hines said in a release.
“Our logistics customers are changing their approach to site selection, placing a stronger emphasis on ensuring their facilities are on the leading edge of sustainability initiatives to attract labour,” said Drew Huffman, managing director at Hines. “We hope to exceed those demands while also providing market-leading clear heights, floor loads and layout flexibility to address our users’ core business focus — moving goods quickly and efficiently.”
The project, which is not to be confused with the ESR Yatomi Distribution Center in the same area, is near Japan’s largest and busiest port and is the second-ever acquisition in the country for Hines, after the firm picked up a Yokohama office tower last November on behalf of its flagship pan-Asian fund.
The two buildings at Yatomi Distribution Center will serve both ambient and cold storage users, including last-mile logistics providers and regional distributors. The new building will provide up to 6.5 metre (21.3 foot) clear heights, floor loads exceeding two tonnes and truck access to all levels of the building, while the existing building has clear heights of over 10 metres and dual-sided loading — a rare feature in the Japan logistics market, Hines said.
The new development will offer a three-storey amenity area with indoor and outdoor eating areas, break rooms, business lounges, conference rooms and showers. Green elements will include renewable on-site power generation, water reclamation and optimised energy performance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems throughout the facility.
Earlier market reports indicated that IKEA had sold a distribution centre in Yatomi last year, with that asset also including undeveloped land with potential for further development. Mingtiandi was unable to verify whether Hines’s new acquisition is that property at 2-1 Ueno Cho in the city.
Japan’s e-commerce sales grew by 21.7 percent year-on-year in the second half of 2021 to reach a penetration ratio of 8.1 percent, Cushman & Wakefield said last month in its Logistics MarketBeat report. Food and beverage penetration remains low at 3.3 percent as Japanese continue to rely on neighbourhood stores, but Cushman forecasts continued demand for logistics space driven by the online sector.
“Japan’s logistics market is an attractive investment target for Hines’s continued expansion in Asia Pacific,” said Jon Tanaka, who was appointed as the firm’s first country head in Japan last October. “As much of the existing stock is obsolete and e-commerce growth has been strong, Hines anticipates continued demand growth, particularly for next-generation ESG-oriented facilities. We look forward to continuing to expand this product offering in the region.”
Spreading Out in APAC
Yatomi Distribution Center is the fifth new logistics investment in a little over a year for Hines in Asia Pacific, where in January the firm announced the development of a new logistics centre south of Seoul. The company also broke ground on the Namyang Logistics Center in nearby Hwaseong in the fourth quarter of 2021.
The South Korean projects came about after Hines in 2020 joined forces with Metropolitan Real Estate Equity Management — then owned by Carlyle Group and now part of BentallGreenOak — to acquire a cold storage facility and adjacent development site in Guangdong province as the developer’s first logistics project in China.
In addition to that trio of developments, Hines has acknowledged a fourth APAC logistics investment in the past year but has yet to provide details publicly.
Privately held Hines has invested nearly $4.1 billion in the logistics and industrial sector worldwide, completing over 60 acquisitions totalling more than 43 million square feet (4 million square metres). The firm has a further 36 development projects ranging from the design stage to completed, representing an additional 25 million square feet.


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This week during an interview I had with a highly respected channel journalist about our go-to-market strategy (pile 'em high, sell 'em quick and don't ask too many questions about which lorry they fell...
musicMagpie founder Steve Oliver tells CRN it would be 'criminal' if new home not found for giant artwork exhibited near Carbis Bay last week
Deep Secure’s Threat Removal Platform will become integrated with company's existing portfolio
Jason Howells, VP MSP international sales at Barracuda MSP, on the challenges, and opportunities, facing MSPs post-Covid
Amazon and Google have both relaxed their attitudes to flexible working recently


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Taiwan Semiconductor Mfg. Co. Ltd., (TSM) - Get Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Sponsored ADR Report the world's biggest contract chipmaker and a lead supplier for Apple Inc. (AAPL) - Get Apple Inc. (AAPL) Report iPhones, said Friday that it will build a $12 billion manufacturing facility in Arizona in a move that will create around 1,600 jobs while adding to tensions between Washington and Beijing.
TSMC said construction on the site will begin next year, with operations targeted for a start date in 2024. The group will use the facility to build advanced semiconductors using its 5-nanometer fabrication technology, and plans to have a capacity of 20,000 chips per month. The $12 billion spend is likely to be spread over several years, however, and the capacity is less than half that of its main base in Taiwan.
"This U.S. facility not only enables us to better support our customers and partners, it also gives us more opportunities to attract global talents," the company said in a statement.
"This project is of critical, strategic importance to a vibrant and competitive U.S. semiconductor ecosystem that enables leading U.S. companies to fabricate their cutting-edge semiconductor products within the United States and benefit from the proximity of a world-class semiconductor foundry and ecosystem," TSMC added.
TSMC's U.S.-listed shares were marked 1.13% higher in Friday following the announcement to indicate an opening bell price of $52.69 each.
TSMC's decision follows last year's announcement from domestic rival Hon Hai Precision, also known as Foxconn, to invest around $1.4 billion in a liquid crystal display manufacturing plant in Wisconsin, although plans for the facility have stalled amid a row over state tax incentives and allegations of broken job creation promises.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said TSMC's decision to build in Arizona "comes at a critical juncture, when China is competing to dominate cutting-edge technology and control critical industries" adding it will "increase U.S. economic independence."
It may also stoke further tensions between Washington and Beijing, given China's insistence that it has sovereignty over Taiwan -- which it calls Chinese Taipei -- and its irritation that the U.S. has supported the island's independence.
President Donald Trump said yesterday during a Fox Business Network interview that he isn't interested in speaking with China's President, Xi Jinping and repeated his criticism of China's handling of the coronavirus outbreak.
He has also threatened to "terminate" the recently-agreed phase 1 trade deal and yesterday said he could "cut off the whole relationship".
Severing economic ties with China, which does around $660 billion in annual trade with the United States, is not a viable option for the President, but enticing the return of supply chains, especially in the tech sector, certainly mitigates some of the risks associated in running a persistent trade deficit with the world's second-largest economy.
"We view this as a goodwill step from TSMC -- potentially to alleviate the impact of US/China tech tensions on the company -- as the capacity mentioned is not huge (5nm capacity planned this year in Taiwan will already reach 50-55k WPM) and it will only start production in 2024," said China Renaissance Securities analyst Szeho Ng in Hong Kong.
"It is unknown whether the US government and its US-based major customers will offer any form of subsidy (e.g. free land and tax incentives) or other commitment to this project, and we see TSMC as unlikely to be willing to assume extra financial burdens by itself for this US fab build, given the fiduciary responsibility it has to its shareholders," he added.