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CONSUMERS are on course to cook up a storm in 2022, according to meal box delivery brand Hello Fresh.
Experimenting flavours will become the norm for many shoppers according to the firm, which suggested fusion food – combining cooking cultures from across the world – could overtake Italian as the nation’s favourite cuisine. Hello Fresh made the prediction based on the popularity of recipes it ships to consumers.
The shift to fusion has coincided with a shift in the choice of carbohydrates consumers are purchasing, according to HelloFresh, with rice and noodles on course to overtake potatoes in popularity.
Mini Morley, HelloFresh recipe development manager, said: “The next year of trends looks like it’ll serve up a lot of change across British households, with dinner time becoming more adventurous, all while packing in plenty of goodness.
“As we settle into ‘normality’ once again, it’ll be time to take action on those new habits that many of us picked up over the past year, and for many households cooking was one of the key ways to experiment.
“We’re excited to see new trends that embrace more adventurous eating habits.”


text: The Mountain Scene reports that bikers are bringing in millions. We commissioned this study by TRC Tourism over a year ago and it shows the massive impact mountain biking has on Queenstown's economy. The study reports that $65 million is spent by mountain bikers in our town each year and $25 million stays in the town in the form of profits and wages. Thankyou to everyone who answered the questionnaire and a special thanks to those who volunteered to survey riders on their day off. This effort will really help our cause when it comes to obtaining funding to build you new trails.

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Washington, DC (PRWEB) February 19, 2014
Radius Networks Inc., the leading provider of mobile proximity services, today announced its partnership with LetsMoveDown that will enhance the Verizon Center fan experience. Based in Washington, D.C., LetsMoveDown focuses on enhancing the in-game experience by bringing mobile, iBeacon-enabled, in-game ticket upgrades and customized fan offers to sports arenas. Verizon Center, the 20,000-seat multi-purpose sports and entertainment arena owned and operated by Monumental Sports & Entertainment, will be the first arena to implement the mobile in-game technology and do so during Georgetown University men’s basketball games starting with the Feb. 22 matchup against Xavier.
“We love it when we can help great teams build cool things using our ProximityKit and RadBeacon iBeacon technologies,” said Radius Networks CEO and co-founder Marc Wallace. “We are huge sports fans and think the LetsMoveDown team has created an awesome iBeacon-enabled, value-added experience for Georgetown fans at Verizon Center. Our partnership with LetsMoveDown is continued proof that ProximityKit and RadBeacon iBeacon technologies are the leading choice of expert developers in building real-world mobile proximity solutions.”
iBeacons are short-range, Bluetooth, low-energy transmitters that notify mobile devices when they are within 100 feet of a beacon. This micro-location proximity awareness can be leveraged to deliver a wide range of new innovative solutions, including location-relevant offers and promotions.
“Our mobile in-game ticket management and seat upgrade capabilities deliver unique fan experiences and exclusive rewards before, during and after a game,” said LetsMoveDown co-founder Derek Shewmon. “By leveraging the power of iBeacons in the arena we can send relevant and customized fan offers for seat upgrades, merchandise, team coupons and sponsor-driven messages to our users to enhance their in-game experience.”
Verizon Center is located in the heart of downtown, Washington, D.C., and has been the home of the Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball team for the past 16 years. Georgetown fans will now have a more personalized experience during games as the arena becomes the first to implement this mobile in-game technology.
“We are consistently looking for ways to increase the fan experience at Verizon Center and using mobile technology is a natural extension,” said Monumental Sports & Entertainment executive vice president Randall Boe. “Georgetown fans will now be able to upgrade their seats or take advantage of special promotional offers simply by utilizing this new mobile technology.”
“We are very excited about the partnership with Georgetown Athletics, Radius Networks and LetsMoveDown,” said Georgetown Athletics senior director of marketing Peter Kirschner. “In a time when we are moving toward more usage of our smartphones and devices for offers, this new technology will give us the chance to interact with fans during games and provide them with unique opportunities in the arena.”
About Radius Networks, Inc.
Radius Networks creates new and innovative ways to use wireless device signals for proximity and presence detection. Radius Networks’ cloud-based proximity services and products are used by mobile developers, major retailers, restaurant chains, sports complexes and other companies to drive innovative customer engagement and experience. For more information, visit http://www.radiusnetworks.com or follow Radius Networks at @radiusnetworks.
LetsMoveDown is a Washington, D.C. based company that revolutionizes the fan experience by providing a mobile ticket management platform for in-game ticket upgrades, unique fan experiences and exclusive rewards that are delivered before, during and after a game. LetsMoveDown’s mobile ticketing platform helps teams manage ticketing inventory, generate additional revenue streams and create unique experiences for its fans. For more information, visit http://www.letsmovedown.com or follow LetsMoveDown at @LetsMoveDown.
About Verizon Center
Verizon Center is a 20,000-seat multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue, owned and operated by Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE), in downtown Washington, D.C. The arena is home to three professional sports teams, also owned by MSE, which include the NBA's Washington Wizards, NHL's Washington Capitals and WNBA's Washington Mystics. MSE also oversees management of Kettler Capitals Iceplex, the state-of-the-art training facility for the Capitals, and George Mason University's Patriot Center. Hosting an average of 220 events per year, inclusive of games, concerts, family shows and world-class sporting events, as well as home games for the NCAA’s Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball team, Verizon Center sits at the heart of an $8.1 billion redevelopment of downtown Washington, D.C., that began 16 years ago when the arena opened.
David Helms, Radius Networks, 703.582.1576, dhelms(at)radiusnetworks(dot)com
Derek Shewmon, LetsMoveDown, 650.307.6199, derek.shewmon(at)letsmovedown(dot)com
Sheila Francis, Verizon Center, 202.628.3200 x6042, sfrancis(at)monumentalsports(dot)com
Michael Carey, Georgetown Athletics, 202. 687.2475, mbc32(at)georgetown(dot)edu


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Intel has shouted on the rooftops that Nehalem's memory controller will be integrated, much like the one in AMD's current chips, but the company has said very little beyond that. According to Fudzilla, the "Bloomfield" desktop flavor of Nehalem and its Tylersburg chipset will support three channels of DDR3 memory clocked at 800MHz, 1066MHz, or 1333MHz. There's no word on higher speeds, but Nehalem supposedly won't support DDR2 RAM at all.
If Fudzilla has its facts straight, Nehalem will yield an impressive 31.99GB/s of theoretical maximum memory bandwidth from three channels of DDR3-1333 RAM. Couple that with four or eight cores packing twice as many threads, and AMD may face a potent foe indeed.
Intel Nehalem processor may support tripple-channel memory
Posted on Friday, Oct 26 2007 @ 00:00 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck


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Taiwan’s MediaTek continues to expand its sales by piggybacking on China’s growing demand for smartphones.The slowdown of China’s economy is everyone’s concern, but MediaTek president C.J. Hsieh, during its Q2 earnings’ call earlier this week, painted a different picture.
MediaTek’s Q2 sales grew by 19.5 percent from Q1 to NT$23.44 billion.
Roughly half of MediaTek’s revenue came from mobile phone chips in the Q2. MediaTek shipped 21 million smartphone chips in Q2, higher than the company’s earlier estimate (“somewhere between 18 million and 20 million”), and the company remains bullish about the smartphone market. The MediaTek president expects to ship 30 million smartphone chips (at least; and possibly more) in Q3.
What’s driving such growth? The chauffeur here, according to Taiwan’s chip giant, is China’s smartphone market.
The word on the street is that Chinese branded and non-branded handset manufacturers are ramping up their orders for chips. Mediatek’s president said during the call that China-based telecom carriers are working with some branded vendors to push sales of smartphones to tier-3 and tier-4 cities in China, further expanding the smartphone market.
Count your chickens
Whether Apple is going to introduce its new iPad in Q3, and if so, how many the company plans to ship is a topic of intense speculation in the electronics industry.
Taiwan’s trade publication Digitimes, citing unnamed supply-chain sources, went out on a limb to predict 19.5 million iPad panels will be shipped in Q3, with 16 million slotted for new iPad models.
For the new iPad, Apple is believed to be increasing use of oxide TFT panels – manufactured by Sharp, while decreasing the ratio of Samsung Electronics’ amorphous silicon (a-Si) TFT panels.
The presumed advantage of Oxide TFT panels is high-resolution technology with lower power consumption. It has higher electron mobility and can enhance pixels per inch and the refresh rate.
Source: Taiwan-based supply chain makers, compiled by Digitimes, August 2012NO, China’s Lenovo is NOT buying Nokia
Blame the chatters on the Internet, blame market speculators.
Nokia’s shares rose as much as 17 percent earlier on Wednesday (August 1st), based on speculation that Lenovo might be interested. The rise, however stopped, after Gianfranco Lanci, responsible for Lenovo’s operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa, talked to Reuters and said, “This must be joke.”
Apparently, nothing is going on.
However, the story, if nothing else, illustrates the power of China’s Lenovo compared to Nokia’s fortune. Lenovo today has a market capitalization of $7.1 billion and it has cash and cash equivalents of $3.8 billion.Related stories:
-Teardown slideshow: Inside the third-generation iPad
wars: MediaTek/Mstar vs. Qualcomm, Marvell, Nvidia
-Yoshida in China: Is China’s manufacturing sector slowing down?
-MediaTek to bring premier smartphone features to $150 - $200 handsets


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November 13, 2013 - 2:29 PM
VERNON - It seems a few people still don't know it's risky buying heavily discounted jewelry out of cars in parking lots.
Police released a statement more than a week ago saying they received complaints from people who bought 18 carat gold necklaces that turned out to be fake and nowhere near the value paid. The problem continues.
Const. Gord Molendyk says these junk dealers show up every year to sell items like jewelry, stereos and other electronic equipment out of their cars to make a quick buck off an unsuspecting customer looking for a bargain.
"In all likelihood, they do not have a business license to sell in the community either," Molendyk says.
By the time the buyer finds out the item is worth less than they paid the sellers have hit the road.
"The police want to remind people that just because it is a bargain it might not be as good as it sounds. If you shop at a regular business you have some recourse to get customer service or return the item if not satisfied."
News from © InfoTel News Ltd, 2013


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News and links you missed during the week of May 26th, 2013
This past week was full of happening in tech world and beyond. Nature wasn’t too happy either. Here is catch up on this week’s tech news and other cool links you may have missed.
News and Links You May Have Missed – 26th May, 2013
- “Absolutely staggering”: Dozens injured in Connecticut train crash http://t.co/9LqGpRju9o
- Google I/O 2013 Highlights: Things that matter http://t.co/fQoKwcDgQV
- What Google was thinking when redesigning the new Google+ — Tech News and Analysis http://t.co/4T7rxSiKjG
- Here is how to properly move your Tumblr blog to WordPress – http://wpbeg.in/13eDp6c
- It’s official: Yahoo is buying Tumblr: http://t.co/7HiWKaZJNw “We promise not to screw it up,” Yahoo… http://t.co/k0Aezu7Svy
- Yahoo! likes products without ‘e’ in its name – Flickr, Tumblr – you got the idea, right! – Techacker
- Goa girl develops touch-free phone technology. http://t.co/NcLs2U2pBp
- Updated Google Drive lets you scan documents and allows cloud printing on Android http://t.co/BNzHvlyK5u
- Google Play, the world’s largest eBook collection, just got bigger. Now, you can upload your own files… http://t.co/pq2IWo1amG
- Tornadoes Were Just the Beginning. This Hurricane Season Is Going to be Stormy http://t.co/yr1FmYRean
- Top 6 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Get Married http://t.co/USxCiG0dvR
Google was on the roll this past week – Google updated Google+, Google Play Book and Google Drive app with cards like UI and other changes. Yahoo! bought Tumblr for $1.1B. Two sad news this past week that drew attention – Tornado in Oklahoma and a train crash in Connecticut that killed dozens.


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Following the announcement of borders re-opening in the Northern Territory from 17 July, Tourism Northern Territory has launched a new national marketing campaign, ‘The Territory is the Answer’.
If you’re in need of some nature therapy and outdoor adventure, the NT will probably be at the top of your travel list right now and this new campaign is going to get you dreaming and planning your, and your client’s next domestic getaway.
The campaign, launched this week, uses current consumer sentiment and uncertainties Australians are experiencing around holiday planning to capture their imagination and inspire a Northern Territory escape.
“The creative behind this campaign taps into that sentiment and delivers on the Northern Territory’s promise of being different in every sense. Exactly what we need right now.”
Corey Swaffer, KWP! Executive Creative Director.
The Territory is the Answer
The campaign will be running a series of TV ads that are specifically designed to attract Australian travellers looking for incredible experiences in their own backyard. Cue wide open spaces, fresh air, adventure, and the opportunity to connect with friends, new and old.
Spearheaded by TV advertising, The Territory is the Answer national campaign runs until October and includes print, digital, email marketing, out-of-home and radio advertising, social media, public relations, and consumer activations.
“Never before has international travel been off the table for Australian travellers and this is an opportunity for people who usually seek overseas experiences to now consider local destinations they have previously put off until ‘one day’ in the future. That ‘one day’ is now.”
Tony Quarmby, Tourism NT Executive General Manager of Marketing.
“The Territory is the Answer campaign is designed to raise awareness of our unique Northern Territory holiday icons in addition to our lesser-known gems that are ready and waiting for all Australians, whether they are first-time or repeat travellers,” Quarmby said.
“It is the first major domestic campaign we are launching since the announcement that borders are opening. The campaign provides the answer to one of the biggest questions in today’s current climate – ‘Where do we go and what can we do now?”
The campaign creative has been delivered by KWP! leveraging insights from the current situation and finding humour in things like awkward social distancing in restaurants.
KWP! Executive Creative Director, Corey Swaffer said, “There’s never been a time, that I can remember when everyone has been in the same boat like this. We’ve all been through a range of emotions and we’re now ready to smile, laugh, and travel again.
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April 6, 2018
Tony Lisanti, global editorial director, License! Global
Over the past several years, mergers and acquisitions have had a decided impact not only on the ranking of the world's largest licensing agencies, but also on the fundamental business strategies that have characterized this sector for decades.
The balance of power noted within License! Global's Top 20 Global Licensing Agents report has shifted to Global Brands Group (GBG) with its major acquisition of The Licensing Company (TLC) and its recent joint venture with Creative Artists Agency (CAA), thereby making it the world's largest brand management company and agency with a combined nearly $12 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise worldwide. (Be sure to read the cover story with CAA-GBG.) In the No. 2 spot is WME/IMG, reporting $8.7 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise. Beanstalk, Equity Management Inc. (EMI) and LMCA follow, with each reporting almost $6 billion in retail sales, respectively.
In total, the top five licensing agents represent more than $38 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise across several hundred clients, which accounts for about 62 percent of the total $61.5 billion in retail sales for the total Top 20 Global Licensing Agents.
Rounding out the top 10 are Global Icons, CPLG, Brand Central, Joester Loria Group (JLG) and Exim. In total, the top 10 agents represent $51.6 billion in retail sales, or 84 percent of the total top 20 list.
Another key factor to consider is that the top 20 agents represent dozens of brands that do not appear in License! Global's annual Top 150 Global Licensors report for various reasons that range from non-disclosure of retail sales figures to retail sales volume falling below this year's cut-off of $50 million. Another reason is that individual celebrities and sports figures are not listed within the Top 150, yet produce significant revenue from brand extensions.
Since 2010, total retail sales of the top five ranked licensing agents has more than doubled from $22 billion to $61.5 billion. In 2010, the largest licensing agency was IMG (including Collegiate Licensing Company, or CLC) with $7 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise. It was followed by EMI, which reported $5.2 billion; LMCA at $4.9 billion; Beanstalk, with a reported $2.2 billion; and TLC with $2.7 billion in retail sales. In 2010, CAA was ranked No. 21 with $300 million in retail sales of licensed merchandise.
There's no question that not only has the balance of power and total sales changed significantly, but the role of the licensing agent, which has been evolving for some time, has also matured. The big are getting bigger, retail shelf space is getting smaller and the competition is getting tougher.
Another interesting point is that, similar to how The Walt Disney Company dominates the Top 150 Global Licensors report with $52.5 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise worldwide, CAA-GBG dominates the Top 20 Global Licensing Agents list. And, just like there are numerous smaller licensors that have had a strong impact at retail, there are several smaller agencies that represent many extremely popular brands in key markets around the world.
The changing dynamics of the licensing agents' sector and the attributes of today's mega agencies has created a highly competitive model and an attractive package of benefits for IP owners looking to enhance the overall power, awareness and ROI of their brands in the marketplace. It's no longer just about the next deal.
Consider the following:
Global opportunities–CAA-GBG boasts 24 offices worldwide and the mid-size agencies also realize the importance of international expansion. CPLG is expanding aggressively in the U.S. and other markets, and Brandgenuity recently opened a London office. Other companies are contracting with sub-agencies in local territories.
Collaborations–Numerous unique, and oftentimes unlikely but effective, partnerships are in development by licensing agents, as CPLG exemplifies in the feature story.
Sponsorships–Whether it's concerts, museum exhibitions, e-sports or corporate tie-ins, the world's leading licensing agents realize that the right event or partner can deliver brand value and new audiences.
Social media–Today's agencies are becoming more proficient in every aspect of social media as brands want to reach their targeted audiences in very different ways.
Content–Whether its branded, sponsored or event-driven content, licensing agents are looking to guide their clients and leverage a brand's DNA in different ways.
Retail connections–The top agents are focusing more on forging strong retailer relationships that deliver the customers that brand owners want to reach.
Innovation–This is perhaps the most important characteristic that every brand owner wants and the top agents–while facing greater challenges–are better prepared and have a greater propensity to deliver than ever before.
There's no doubt that there are many initials among the licensing agents, but the one to remember is CAA-GBG as this new powerhouse company is poised to change the dynamics of the business and will have a decided impact on the licensing sector over the next several years.
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Bruce Beam Assumes Duties as ServNet's President, Plans Agenda for Two-year Term
As ServNet auction owners gathered for their Fall Business Meeting earlier this month in Dallas, they marked the changing of the guard as Bruce Beam, General Manager of Dealers Auto Auction of Oklahoma City, assumed the post of ServNet's President for the next two years. He succeeds Eric Autenrieth (Carolina and Indiana Auto Auctions), who moves to the post of Chairman of the Board.
As Beam lays out his leadership agenda for the next two years, his immediate goal is to ensure a seamless transition in ServNet's executive leadership, as John Brasher and Robert Sullivan take over as Executive Director/Administrative Director following Pierre Pons' decision to step down as the group's CEO at the end of the year.
High on Beam's goals for the group will be a strong focus on the dealer community during his term as ServNet's President.
"Every week thousands of dealers buy vehicles at ServNet auctions," said Beam. "I want to make sure that those customers realize how important they are to us, and to know that when they buy a vehicle from a ServNet auction, they have the benefit of our entire network of auctions."
"In today's remarketing world, auto dealers are sourcing their inventory nationally in ever-increasing numbers. Within the ServNet community, no matter how far away the selling auction is, there's a ServNet auction near to stand behind the transaction," says Beam. "An online transaction at a ServNet auction goes far beyond the computer technology that makes nationally sourcing and purchasing possible. It's important that our dealers know that ServNet's owners work together, so that following the sale, the customer receives the follow-up and support from their local ServNet auction, working with the people they have known for years and do business with on a regular basis."
DAA Northwest Named NAAA Auto Auction of the Year
Western Chapter auction recognized for charity volunteer and
DAA Northwest Auto Auction has been named the National Auto Auction Association's 2019 Auto Auction of the Year for Excellence in Community Service. The Spokane, Washington, business received the top honor for its outstanding efforts to address the domestic violence, abuse, homelessness, hunger, school absenteeism, achievement gap, and other issues afflicting the children of its historically impoverished community.
Presented during the NAAA's 71st annual convention this month in Indianapolis, Indiana, the award includes a $20,000 check payable to a charity of the auction's choice and a crystal trophy. DAA Northwest had previously won a $5,000 check for charity as one of four regional finalists chosen earlier to receive the 2019 NAAA Chapter Auction of the Year Award.
Four years ago DAA Northwest made a long-term commitment to the students and staff of Sunset Elementary when the auction "adopted" the school located just two miles from its site. More than 200 auction employees voluntarily participate in a payroll deduction plan to provide students with healthy weekend snacks through the "Bite2Go" program, with a company match for all contributions. The auction also purchased a van employees use every Friday to deliver an average of 150 Bite2Go packages that other staff volunteers made at Second Harvest Food Bank.
DAA team members donate their time to PrimeTime Mentoring, an accredited mentoring program, where they spend lunch hours once a week with students and have purchased items like board games, yo-yos and craft projects to do with the children. They also regularly take lunch and home-baked treats to the school staff as a thank you for their dedication to education.
Every November in conjunction with DAA's annual Anniversary Sale the auction hosts a dinner and fundraiser auction that has contributed a total of more than $1.8 million to various local nonprofits, including the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery and Union Gospel Mission. In addition to the items sold to the dealers and guests, DAA produces specially embroidered caps that are given away for a $50 donation, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the featured charities.
During the past year, the auction has made contributions to the American Cancer Society, Adult & Teen Challenge, YMCA, Young Life, Spring of Hope International, Spokane River Forum, Northwest Harvest, Meals on Wheels, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Joya Child and Family Development, The Gee Foundation, Community Cancer Fund and school athletic programs.
DAA Northwest's sister ServNet auction, Louisiana's 1st Choice Auto Auction was one of the four finalists in this year's award process, and was named Auction of the year for the NAAA Southern Chapter. At the awards ceremony the auction's managing partner John Poteet received a trophy and $5,000 payable to a charity of the auction's choice.
Jeff Barber Honored by NAAA as Industry Pioneer
The National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) has named State Line Auto Auction's Jeff Barber a pioneer of the industry for successfully integrating innovative business developments and modern safety measures with a welcoming workplace environment and traditional family owned operation.
Barber, president and owner of the largest independent auto auction in New York State, received the honor at NAAA's 2019 Annual Convention this month. The Industry Pioneer Award recognizes individuals who have innovated or enhanced methods of improving services to remarketers through NAAA member auctions; have championed NAAA member auctions as providing services for motor vehicle remarketers unavailable from any other source; and have consistently followed the standards of the NAAA Code of Ethics.
A native of Waverly, NY, Barber graduated from Wake Forest University in 1972, then worked in North Carolina as the director of sales and marketing for Champion Industries, a warewashing equipment manufacturer, prior to his career in the auto auction industry. Barber joined State Line Auto Auction, which was founded by his parents Harry and Zora Barber, as general manager in 1983. After the death of his mother that same year and his father in 1984, Barber became president in partnership with his brother and sister, then sole owner in 1994. He used his past experience in commercial sales and marketing to expand the family business by aggressively pursuing leasing and commercial accounts.
Today, the business has grown from its small original site in Waverly, NY, to facilities on 200 acres running an average of 1,200 vehicles through its eight lanes every Friday. In addition to dealer consignment, the auction sells for many commercial accounts, including national banks, credit unions, subprime lenders, manufacturers, and captive finance companies.
Over the decades Barber has implemented a number of innovations, both large and small, with the goal of providing quality customer service, employee satisfaction and a safe place for all to work and conduct business. In October of 1995 State Line held the first simulcast sale, with 400 vehicles offered both live and electronically at a General Motors closed auction, where 125 buyers on the floor and 15 bidding remotely bought the entire consignment.
To keep thousands of cars clear during New York winters, his crew attached an industrial-strength turbine to an excavator's arm to efficiently blow off snow and ice. Risk reduction efforts include the installation of 200 bright-yellow-and-red, eight-foot bollards sunk half deep into the ground around the lane bay doors to guide drives and protect people from potential mishaps.
Inside the auction, Barber has created a warm, inviting workspace that has contributed to maintaining a long-tenured staff. A dazzling display of large and colorful vintage car, gas and oil company signs hangs from the ceiling and walls, while an antique gas station pump, auto memorabilia and toy pedal cars adorn the lobby. Among that collection sits State Line's own custom-built Jump Truck entry in the 2014 NAAA convention's pedal car charity auction fto benefit the Association's Warren Young, Sr., Scholastic Foundation, which Barber bought back for a $102,000 donation. There is also the restored 1936 pedal car signed by former Ford Motor Company President and CEO Alan Mulally, which Barber won with a $35,000 bid at the 2018 convention's auction to benefit NAAA's Disaster Relief Fund.
In addition to his generous support of NAAA, Barber is active as a founding member of the ServNet Auction Group and a board member of the New York Independent Automobile Dealers Association. His other industry recognitions include being awarded a Warren Young Fellow by NAAA in 2011 and named the 2014 Bobit Business Remarketer of the Year.
Barber's auction remains a family affair as the third generation has become partners in the business. Daughters Beth and Emily, along with son Paul, are active in all facets of the daily operations while another daughter Kate is an attorney in Washington, D.C. but is also licensed to practice in New York.
Barber resides in his native hometown with his wife of 41 years Jean, who is also involved in the business. His hobbies include antiques, old cars, and reading and studying history.
Ally Show Car Races to Bel Air Auto Auction
One of the most recognizable cars in NASCAR, Ally's Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, made a guest appearance at BSC America's Bel Air Auto Auction, turning heads in Ally Financial's sale lane at the auction on Thursday, October 3. Ally is an important player at Bel Air Auto Auction, selling every week at the Belcamp, Maryland facility, and a visit from the famous show car drew even more attention to the high-octane sale event at the auction.
Ally Financial is the sole primary sponsor of Jimmie Johnson and his No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports team in 2019 and 2020, and recently extended its sponsorship for three more years through the 2023 season. Its show car tours the country promoting the Ally brand and bringing attention to the remarketer's offerings in the auction lanes.
"Our customers were thrilled to see No. 48 parked in the lane on sale day," said BSC America President R. Charles Nichols. "To get up close to a vehicle of that caliber, that represents such superior performance on the track, was an experience not to be forgotten!"
The Ally Financial sale at the auction was a winner in all respects, said Nichols. Dealers attending the sale received Ally hats, and every dealer selling a vehicle that day earned a chance to win tickets to the NASCAR race at Dover Downs on October 6th.
Bel Air Auto Auction has been a long-time partner for Ally on the Eastern Seaboard, and as recently as September of 2019 was ranked by Ally as the top auction in the region. The auction has also been recognized a number of times with Ally's regional Leadership Award: 1st quarter of 2015; 1st, 2nd and 4th quarter of 2016, and 1st and 2nd quarter of 2017.
Akron Auto Auction , Dealers Go Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness
Akron Auto Auction (AAA) is gearing up for its annual October Breast Cancer Awareness Sale scheduled for Tuesday, October 22nd. During the month and weeks leading up to the sale, Dealers and employee purchase AAA Breast Cancer Awareness shirts or make donation contributions to help the cause.
During the Breast Cancer Awareness Sale, Dealers can donate a set percentage of every car they buy or sell. "Pink" Vehicles will also be featured and auctioned off in the lanes with one hundred percent of the sale price being donated. Every dealer who makes a charitable donation will be entered into a prize drawing to win a cabin getaway vacation in southern Ohio's beautiful Hocking Hills. One hundred percent of all funds received will be donated to the Breast Cancer Fund of Ohio for cancer research and treatment.
"This sale is one that Akron Auto Auction looks forward to every year." Said Kalee Robinson, Akron Auto Auction Registration Manager. "Customers and staff are aware of the impact every single donation can make, and we look forward to seeing the lanes turn pink on sale day."
FastLane Auto Exchange Prepares for 41st Annual Turkey Sale
Fastlane Auto Exchange kicks off the holiday season with its 41st annual Turkey Sale. Set this year for November 13th, 2019, the Turkey Sale has become something of a beloved tradition for dealers in the Flint area. Last year the auction recorded record attendance at the event, and was FastLane’s biggest sale to date. Fastlane fully expects this year to be no different as the auction team gears up with 1,000 turkeys to give away to every buyer and seller. The grand prize drawing at the sale will be tickets to the Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Day Classic against the Chicago Bears.
Greenville Auto Auction Launches 4th Quarter Promotions, Donates to Local Charity
Greenville Auto Auction is excited to have five sales during the month of October. They are starting two new promotions to begin the fourth quarter. The first promotion is called 10-to-Win. Any dealer purchasing ten or more BB&T/RAC vehicles from October through the end of December will receive a North Face jacket. For GAA's online customers, the promotion is called 12-to-Win. Any online dealer purchasing twelve or more vehicles during the 3-month period also wins a North Face jacket. GAA has its final sale of the month on Halloween, October 31st, when the staff will wear costumes, provide breakfast and have dealers play Pumpkin Smash for Cash.
Every year at its Anniversary Sale, Greenville Auto Auction chooses a non-profit to give back to. This year, the auction chose the Third Street Education Center. The center includes academy, business & workforce development, and community impact. Third Street’s vision is to see generations transformed by the power of the Gospel as they educate and equip people in ways that bring dignity and hope. GAA, with the help from their generous dealers, was able to raise $10,000 for Third Street. The Bill & Faye Stallings Family Foundation matched the gift bringing the total to $20,000.
Greater Rockford Auto Auction Holds 2019 Spooktacular
Customers were urged to Trick or Treat themselves at the Greater Rockford Auto Auction's 2nd Annual GRAA Spooktacular on October 16th. More than 1,000+ vehicles flew through the lanes. All vehicles were available for purchase online via Edge Pipeline beginning at 8:45 A.M. After the sale there were $13,000 in unbelievable giveaways. Customers had the chance to win prizes such as a Kawasaki Dirt Bike, a Beer Fridge, a Yeti Cooler, and much more.
"Last year's GRAA Spooktacular was one of our biggest sales of the year, and this year's event followed suit," said Chad Anderson, GRAA General Manager. "We had a huge selection of inventory, and a variety of prizes in every lane for buyers and sellers to win."


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When supply chains from Asia were cut off in the spring of 2020, the coronavirus pandemic revealed the extent to which the U.S. was dependent on imports of personal protective equipment (PPE) including nonwoven surgical masks, according to U.S. trade representative Bill Jackson. Photo: © Kateryna Rykun, Dreamstime.com The year 2020 was not a particularly […]
A ‘mixed bag’ for U.S. textile manufacturing
The lasting impacts of the pandemic and a new administration remain to be seen, but manufacturing industry experts express optimism.
Features | March 1, 2021 | By: Jeff Moravec
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is looking for comments from the public to redefine "healthy," a term that commonly appears on many food product labels in the country.
The FDA said on Sept. 28, that redefining "healthy" will help people a great deal in making their food choices according to public health recommendations, which could encourage food industries to produce quality products. Nutrition experts and many food companies claim that the current guidelines enacted decades ago are no longer in accordance with present dietary advice.
The agency noted that manufacturers can list products as "healthy" on food labels, in accordance with the existing regulatory definition, while new guidelines are being prepared. The issue started after Kind Snacks, the fruit-and-nut snack bars maker, petitioned FDA for the first time in relation to the federal limitations on fat content.
People look at product labels to get nutritional facts while making the decision to buy. Therefore, terms like "healthy," "good source" and "low in fat" matter a lot because they guide people in making choices accordingly.
To be deemed healthy, food products must follow appropriate and up-to-date guidelines. For example, recent public health recommendations are more concerned about the type of fat present in the food products than the amount of fat. As such, manufacturers can only claim their food products are healthy if they contain fat within the allowable limits.
When label guidelines are updated, they will have information on added sugars, the topic of one of the most recent health recommendations. The guidelines will also focus on nutrient content, particularly those that people don't get in sufficient amounts like potassium and vitamin D.
The FDA is organizing various public forums to give people an avenue for their comments, with the comment period starting on Sept. 28 and ending on Jan. 26, 2017. Additionally, comments may be left online at Regulations.gov. Those who wish to mail in their comments may also do so, but written comments have to be identified with the docket number FDA-2016-D-2335.
"While we are working on the 'healthy' claim, we also will begin evaluating other label claims to determine how they might be modernized," wrote Douglas Balentine, director of the Office of Nutrition and Food Labeling at FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.
"We want to give consumers the best tools and information about the foods they choose, with the goal of improving public health," he added.
Photo: U.S. Department of Agriculture | Flickr


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Study finds new business has made a big economic impact on Nisku and Leduc
Five years of new and existing business has generated some major income in Leduc and Nisku.
The Leduc-Nisku Economic Development Association(LNEDA) recently released its data collected from 2013- 2018.
The study examined new businesses that have moved into the area, how many jobs its created along with its economic output on each community.
According to the research new business helped generate $289 million for both communities and $290 million was brought in from existing businesses.
There were over 1200 jobs created due to the growth of business in the region. (JSL/THE ONE NEWS)


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Veggie Express succeeds Saravana in Chungking Mansions as Worst Restaurant of Month. This is Veggie Express’s story of disrespect and contempt for their customers.
Veggie Express opened last month in North Point. They continue to knowingly sell non-vegetarian products. This is despite deceiving customers with, “All ingredients are vegetarian” repeatedly stated on their menu. This is the Veggie Express tale of deception.
We did a routine follow up to see if Benzhen is still all vegan. The outcome was a big disappointment. This is the story.
i Vegetarian was checked out on Friday for a secret shopper visit. And the great news is it’s an all vegan hidden gem. This is the low down.
We have tried numerous times going back to July 2015 to have Inno Veggie take seriously the health risk their laziness presents. With further indication they were not exercising the required rigour, the FEHD were notified. This is the story.


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Computex 2007: Thermaltake, ABIT, Corsair, Sapphire
At Corsair’s Computex suite, the company was displaying their line of flash memory drives, including their new survivor flash drive. The company was showing off their two shipping 620W and 520W power supplies and mentioned that they were going to be releasing an 800W unit into the market later this year. Corsair was showing off one of their first Tier 1 OEM design wins as well, with Corsair’s memory now available in Dell’s Dimension XPS line of gaming systems.
But the big draw in Corsair’s suite was their DDR3 modules. The company was showing off a still in development 4GB (2x2GB) kit of DDR3 running at 1600MHz, at CAS 9 timings. 2GB DDR3 modules are still very rare at this point, and if these modules were to come out today, they would cost upwards of $1,000 at retail. However, Corsair plans to introduce them later this year when supply becomes more plentiful and therefore the memory will be more affordable to end users.
And for all the overclockers out there, Corsair was the first company showing off DDR3 running at 2000MHz, with CAS 10 timings. We were able to sneak a run of SiSoft Sandra’s Memory Bandwidth Benchmark and obtained very impressive 8533MB/s RAM Bandwidth score.


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By Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson, reporter
FACTORY ACTIVITY in the Philippines rose for the 10th straight month in November, even though jobs fell for the first time since March, an S&P Global survey showed on Thursday.
The S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 52.7 in November from 52.6 in October, reflecting a “moderate” pace of expansion.
“Growth across the Philippine manufacturing sector entered its tenth straight month, with a modest expansion in operating conditions since September. The improvement across the sector is primarily due to better demand conditions that have led to higher sales and production volumes,” said Maryam Baluch, economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, in a report.
A PMI reading above 50 indicates an improvement in operating conditions compared to the previous month, while a reading below 50 signals a deterioration.
The Philippines had the highest PMI reading among the six Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economies in November, beating the regional PMI average of 50.7.
Thailand had the second highest PMI reading at 51.1, followed by Indonesia at 50.3. On the other hand, Malaysia (47.9), Vietnam (47.4) and Myanmar (44.6) all recorded declines in November.
“Growth across ASEAN manufacturing slowed again in November, with the latest PMI data signaling only a modest improvement in operating conditions. The slowdown reflected weaker output growth, while factory orders fell for the first time in 14 months,” said S&P Global.
According to S&P Global, the latest data signals a sustained improvement in operating conditions in the Philippine manufacturing sector.
“The growth resulted from greater demand, which led to faster expansion of production levels and factory orders. Buying activity also picked up faster in November,” she added, noting that manufacturing output and factory orders rose for the third straight month.
However, the seasonally adjusted employment index slipped below the neutral mark of 50, signaling a fall in payrolls for the first time since March.
“In the last survey period, too, companies recorded a reduction in staff, thus ending the surge in job creation that began in May. Employee resignations were frequently cited as a reason for the decline in the workforce,” said S&P Global.
Sales were also impacted by sluggish export conditions.
“Weak demand from overseas customers weighed on overall order growth across the sector, which was mainly driven by domestic demand. Nonetheless, the decline in export sales has moderated from the recent low in October,” S&P said.
Firms increased their purchases of inputs for the third straight month as they expected more orders in the coming months.
“The rate of expansion accelerated from October at the fastest in six months, signaling a solid increase overall. The growth in production and buying activity caused inventories of inputs to increase in November. Companies increased inventories in anticipation of greater demand,” S&P said.
Meanwhile, the month saw ongoing supply chain disruptions due to port congestion and material shortages, but the incidence of delays was at a three-month low.
Rising inflation drove up corporate spending.
“Input price inflation accelerated for the second month in a row as higher energy costs were largely blamed for the recent increase in spending. Similarly, producer prices rose faster in November as companies opted to pass costs on to customers,” S&P said.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) expects November inflation to range between 7.4% and 8.2%.
“While manufacturing has posted strong gains in 2022, heightened price pressures pose an ongoing threat. Coupled with supply chain issues, the peso weakening against the dollar adds further fragility,” Ms. Baluch said.
Ms Baluch said rising interest rates and further monetary tightening could hurt customer spending.
The BSP has hiked rates by 300 basis points (bps) since May, taking the policy rate to a 14-year high of 5%. It is widely expected to present another 50 basis point rate hike at its December meeting.
Factory activity was hit by “less positive” job trends as the fall in the seasonally adjusted labor index dampened potential growth, Nicholas Antonio T. Mapa, senior economist at ING Bank NV Manila, said in a Viber message.
“This shows that the labor market recovery still has a long way to go before we return to pre-COVID levels,” he said.
Mr Mapa also said domestic demand has fueled growth as most manufacturing is related to food consumed locally. However, flat external demand reflected the slowdown in global trade, he added.
Manufacturing companies are “very bullish” on output growth over the next 12 months, according to S&P Global.
“In addition, confidence has strengthened in the month. This has often been associated with greater customer activity, the opening up of the economy and more companies taking on new projects,” she added.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael L. Ricafort said in an email that increased manufacturing activity ahead of the holiday season would also boost manufacturing activity.
“Nevertheless, we are also feeling a seasonal demand creeping into the main demand scene. I expect PMI to remain in expansion territory through the end of the year,” Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion, chief economist at UnionBank of the Philippines, Inc., said in a Viber message.
The Headline PMI measures production conditions through the weighted average of five indices: incoming orders (30%), output (25%), employment (20%), supplier delivery times (15%) and purchased inventories (10%).


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Google Hangouts Split, Gives Slack A Run For Its Money
The search engine giant made an announcement on Thursday that will change the face of its services. G Suite, Google's workplace tools, has just split its Hangouts app into Hangouts Meet and Hangouts Chat. The resulting services, which work as a video chat and a messaging feature, looks largely similar to Slack.
As Recode pointed out, Google has been putting a lot of efforts into selling its office tools to larger businesses. The project looks to be coming together in order to take on the likes of Microsoft Office and Slack. And it seems to be working, as Verizon recently switched sides from office to G Suite.
The update features will be available to G Suite customers who simply apply for access. The new application creates virtual rooms where individuals can take part of group conversations. Furthermore, they have the option to break conversations off into various threads.
Hangouts Chat includes a new AI bot that can automatically schedule meetings. When the bot is called, participants' Google Calendars are compared and contrasted. The open time that is common to the group is then picked right off the bat.
On the other hand, Hangouts Meet allows up to 30 people to join a meeting by simply clicking on a shared link or by dialing in via a phone. The service also allows users to pull out files from G Suite and present them within the app. The tools are expected to roll out within the next few weeks.
The intention of Google at this point is to veer away from the public's common notion that it is just a search engine service. As Fortune reported, Scott Johnson, Google's director of project management, made examples of current software, such as Hangouts Chat and Hangouts meet. "It feels like it is less of an uphill battle now," he said. However, the company is fighting the risk of confusion among its current users.
Google Acquires Kaggle: Strengthens Its Grip On AI Learning
Google announced its acquisition of Kaggle, a startup that has hosted competitions that allow data scientists to stand out in their field. The idea is to further enhance the search engine giant’s artificial intelligence arm.
Google Pixel, Pixel XL Sales Trail Behind Apple & Samsung
As positively received as the Pixel and Pixel XL are, the flagships from Google are still trailing behind in terms of sales. Apple and Samsung are still leading in the smartphone market.
Google Challenges iMessage, Upgrades Android Messages
Google is not ready to give up on its standard messaging application and is gearing up to compete against Apple’s iMessaging feature. And in doing so, the company hopes to restart the use of text messaging.
Gmail For Android Now Adds Phishing Protection Features
Google has now released and updated its Gmail app for Android with a built-in anti-phishing security feature.
Google Agrees To Open Apps On Android-based Devices in Russia
Google has promised to Russia's Federal Antimonopoly Service that the company will allow rivals' search engines and apps to be pre-installed on smartphones running its versions of Android in Russia.
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Muscat: Hyundai has offered an early glimpse of its next-generation fuel cell vehicle, ahead of the hydrogen-powered SUV’s official launch early next year.
The near-production-ready prototype embodies Hyundai’s commitment to a new era for advanced eco-friendly vehicle development, offering impressive capabilities and futuristic design.
The yet-to-be-named model will be Hyundai’s second commercially produced hydrogen model and uses the company’s fourth generation of hydrogen fuel cell technology. The vehicle, its capabilities and fuel cell technologies are an evolution of Hyundai’s global research, development and real-world evaluation programmes, engineered with expertise honed through the world’s first commercial production of a fuel cell vehicle in 2013.
The new fuel cell model was developed on four key pillars that focus on fuel cell system efficiency, performance (maximum output), durability, and tank storage density.
By enhancing fuel cell performance, reducing hydrogen consumption, and optimising key components, the vehicle’s efficiency is greatly improved compared with its predecessor, the Tucson Fuel Cell. It boasts an efficiency level of 60%, or a 9% increase from the Tucson’s 55.3%, and targets a driving range of more than 580kmon a single charge based on Korean testing standards. The new model’s maximum output is enhanced by 20%, boasting an impressive 163PS of power. Enhanced components – such as MEA (membrane electrode assembly) and bipolar plates – have helped to reduce production costs.
“With exceptional efficiency, serene styling, and uncompromised performance, our next-generation fuel cell SUV is the true epitome of an eco-friendly vehicle of the future,” said Lee Ki-sang, senior vice president of Hyundai Group’s Eco Technology Center. “Hyundai Motor will take the lead in developing and producing green energy vehicles that would ultimately complement a near-zero emission society.”
The new FCEV inherits striking design features from the FE Concept, which was introduced at the 2017 Geneva Auto Show. The new model builds on the earlier concept’s design, taking an organic and flowing form, inspired by nature – namely water, the car’s only emission – with the clean design emphasising its non-polluting nature. The clean and simple interior layout intuitively integrates high-tech elements in an ultramodern environment, complemented by industry leading bio-materials with eco-friendly certification.
New eco-vehicle development roadmap
The new model will spearhead Hyundai’s plans to accelerate development of low emission vehicles, in line with Hyundai Motor Group’s renewed goal of introducing 31 eco-friendly models to global markets by 2020.
Hyundai is committed to a multi-pronged approach to its eco-vehicle program, with a future vehicle line-up comprising a variety of powertrain options – electric, hybrid and fuel cell –to suit customers’ varied lifestyles.
Spurred on by greater global demand for fuel-efficient, eco-friendly vehicles, the roadmap sets out the brand’s goal of leading the global popularisation of hybrid vehicles, expanding its lineup to SUVs and large vehicles. It includes the development of 4WD and rear-wheel drive variants, building on its proprietary Transmission-Mounted Electrical Device (TMED) system.
Continuing to develop its leadership of the electric vehicle market with its current IONIQ model, the company also aims to establish a lineup ranging from small EVs to large and luxurious Genesis-brand models. Electric vehicle development will take place in multiple phases.
Hyundai will also develop its first dedicated architecture for pure electric vehicles, allowing it to produce multiple models with longer driving ranges.
Hyundai will strengthen its global leadership in hydrogen fuel cell technology through research and development to boost FCEV performance and durability, while also making the technology smaller and cheaper.
Hyundai will reveal the new hydrogen SUV early next year in Korea, while the official name will be announced in January at the 2018 CES.


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ise-view-Article Detail Bottom List
Healthy signs for snacks manufacturers
Date Published：11/22/2016 08:11:23 PM
THE Nielsen Global Snacking Report (2014) notes the huge opportunity for snack manufacturers to gain market share in the nutritious, portable and easy-to-eat meal alternative market. According to the study, 63 percent of respondents snack because of nutrition while 61 percent said they snack to get an energy boost. Snack food companies can take advantage of the trend by formulating their products with new functional ingredients.
For further insights, we spoke to Christian Philippsen, managing director of BENEO Asia-Pacific.
Christian Philippsen, managing director of BENEO Asia-Pacific
What ingredients do you offer manufacturers involved in snacks fortification and their competitive advantages compared to your competitors?
BENEO can help food manufacturers meet consumers’ needs and preferences by offering ingredients from nature that improve the nutritional profile and provide health benefits. The company’s portfolio includes prebiotic fibers from chicory root (Orafti® Inulin and Orafti® Oligofructose), and functional carbohydrates from sugar beet (the next generation sugar Palatinose™ and the sugar replacer ISOMALT) to reformulate snack recipes.
Snacks with high glycaemic carbohydrates such as glucose, maltodextrine or sucrose drastically increase blood sugar levels, which also drop as fast as they have increased due to regulation by our body. A constant rise and fall of blood sugar levels not only places stress on the metabolism, but also increases the risk factor for various non-communicable diseases such as diabetes in the long run.
With BENEO’s ingredients, manufacturers can replace high glycaemic carbohydrates in snack products such as beverages, baked goods, cereal, confectionery, and dairy. They have a mild sweet taste and are soluble which means they don’t affect taste and texture. Additionally, the low glycaemic characteristics of BENEO’s chicory root fibers and functional carbohydrates have been confirmed by the European Commission that approved EU health claims for all of them.
For manufacturers that want both benefits of a lower blood glucose and less calories in the products, chicory root fibers and ISOMALT are the ingredients of choice. While ISOMALT can replace sugar in a 1:1 ratio, chicory root fibers replace sugars partially in confectionery, dairy, bakery and cereals. Additionally, inulin and oligofructose not only reduce sugars, they add a valuable source of prebiotic fiber.
Both ISOMALT and prebiotic fibers provide a mild sweet taste and can support the sugar-like sweetness many consumers seek when enjoying snacks. At the same time, inulin is used to cut fat and add fiber in applications such as dairy or meat. Its long chain molecular structure and its low solubility enable it to form fat-like granules in water-containing systems under high shear. With its neutral and balanced flavor, it does not affect the taste of the product while delivering a similar mouthfeel, texture and creaminess.
Worldwide, there are only three proven prebiotics: chicory root fibers, galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS), and lactulose, which is not a dietary fiber but a non-digestible sugar. From these, only chicory root fibers are natural, plant-based prebiotics. They have shown to act as nourishment for the good bacteria in our gut and thus support digestive health as well as bowel regularity.
BENEO only recently received an exclusive EU health claim for inulin supporting digestive health. Digestive health is an ever growing consumers’ concern.
One of Mintel’s 12 key food and drink trends for 2016 “From the inside out” clearly shows that more consumers see and understand the impact diets have on the way they look and feel.
By using BENEO’s inulin from chicory root, manufacturers can create a high-fiber and low-sugar product that has the same texture and sensorial mouthfeel as one with full sugar equivalent
In your view what is fueling the demand for fortified snacks?
Urban consumers today lead hectic lifestyles. We see increasing demand for snacks as consumers tend to eat on-the-go for their main meals or when in need of a quick boost of energy. As such, snacking has become a preferred and convenient choice for them. Market figures show that the global market for snack foods is projected to exceed US$630 billion by 2020. Asia-Pacific is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 7.2 percent.2
Yet, while consumers seek convenient solutions, they also look at the food labels to see if the food has balanced nutritional profiles and can supply the energy level they need in order to get through busy days. Credible benefits displayed on the packaging make them feel more comfortable with their purchase decisions. While convenience remains a key driver for the food industry in the future, the increasing emphasis on ‘healthy alternatives’ is redefining the snack, ready meals and sauces categories. Food manufacturers are thus faced with the challenge to offer convenient food solutions that meet the consumers’ demand for naturalness and nutritional benefits.
Snacking itself is not a problem, if done right, it can even be part of a healthy lifestyle.
What emerging trends do you see in snacks fortification, particularly in Southeast Asia?
In recent years, we have seen consumers in Asia seek healthier food options. This applies to snacks too. Consumers now not only expect snack products to deliver pleasure and energy, but to also contain naturally-derived ingredients and provide health benefits. They are also more willing to invest in healthier food alternatives.
Consumers are demanding for natural and ‘less processed’ food and drink today, as identified by Mintel3. Results from a BENEO-commissioned consumer research also show that a majority of consumers in Indonesia and Thailand prefer to include natural products in their diet. The findings revealed that 94 percent of Indonesian and 91 percent of Thai respondents consider natural products as better, while 74 percent and 81 percent of respondents in Indonesia and Thailand respectively, actively look for natural products when making food purchase decisions.
BENEO meets this trend as our Orafti® Oligofructose and Inulin are derived from chicory root while Palatinose™ and Isomalt are sourced from beet sugar.
By including ingredients that provide health benefits, snacking can play an important role in a nutritionally balanced and healthy diet.
With nearly half of consumers (45 percent) looking for snacks that go beyond basic nutrition4, and almost one in five (17 percent) buying snacks to manage their weight, convenient food snacks that combine both indulgence and balanced nutrition are growing in popularity among consumers.
With consumers becoming more aware of the dangers of consuming too much sugar, we also see growing interest in product variants with less sugar. While consumers are looking for healthier versions, particularly in indulgent snack products such as confectionery and chocolate, food manufacturers need to convince consumers that taste and mouthfeel will not be compromised despite the lower sugar content.
BENEO’s naturally derived functional fibers and carbohydrates enhance the nutritional profile of products, while replacing and reducing sugar, fat and consequently calories. Technical trials have shown that combining our sugar replacer ISOMALT and the natural chicory root fiber inulin results in sugar-reduced chocolate which match the taste and mouthfeel of full sugar versions. The team created chocolate with different sugar formulations – one with 30 percent reduction in sugar and another without added sugar.
What challenges do you face in terms of meeting the snacks manufacturers’ requirements and satisfying government regulations?
One of the key challenges is the need to have a good basis for the messages that manufacturers would like to communicate to end-consumers. This requires continuous investment in scientific studies to substantiate the benefits of our ingredients as well as a close cooperation with the legal authorities around the world to make claims possible.
Research studies and statistics are important but consumers are not adept to this kind of language. Therefore, it is critical that the products are properly and accurately labelled with easily-comprehensible claims. This helps consumers to easily find, pick and choose the healthiest products with the right ingredients.
BENEO supports manufacturers throughout the entire development process to help customers bring innovative products with functional benefits to the market.
Technical trials by BENEO have shown that combining their sugar replacer ISOMALT and the natural chicory root fiber inulin results in tasty sugar-reduced chocolate
What are your plans in terms of serving the demands of manufacturers in snacks fortification?
We will continue to offer ingredients from natural sources, with sound scientific substantiation of their benefits and the expertise on how to best apply them. We trust that we can inspire food manufacturers to improve the physiological characteristics of their snack products to offer long-term nutritional health benefits for consumers.
As Asia’s population becomes increasingly urbanised and leading fast-paced lives, they are also more aware of the need to maintain good health to keep up with the pace. Additionally, with rising income levels, they are also more willing to spend on healthier food products.
A recent consumer research commissioned by BENEO in China and Indonesia shows, for example, that more than 80 percent of consumers consider health impacts when eating and/or buying food. About the same number of consumers are willing to try new products and ingredients when they have a health benefit claim on it.
We believe that there is still vast potential in the region and BENEO’s ingredients will be able to keep up with the dynamic changes in consumer demands.
2 Global Industry Analysts, Inc. (2015), ‘Snack foods - a global strategic business report’
3 Mintel (2015), ‘Mintel identifies global food and drink trends for 2016’
4 Wyatt, S. L. 2014. “The State of the Snack Food Industry.” Presented at SNAXPO Snack Food Assoc. Annual Meeting, Dallas, March 1–4.


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A new mutual fund will provide crypto currency access to accredited investors in Asia who are very interested but slow to buy the coins directly.
The online retail giant is to drop trading restrictions for its digital asset-based dividend instigated by former CEO Patrick Byrne.
Deposits will be accepted today followed by trading on Tuesday at 16:00 UTC.
Crypto brokerage Tagomi released its borrowing and lending platform to the wider public, enabling investors to short cryptocurrencies like bitcoin and ethereum. Tagomi’s COO Kevin Johnson told CoinDesk that its new platform addresses issues that stymie institutional crypto shorts. Many large-scale investors could not short cryptocurrencies as rapidly as they might short an equity position […]
Tassat, formerly trueDigital, has teamed up with AlgoTrader to provide institutional traders access to its soon-to-launch bitcoin swaps contracts.
A filing with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange backs up earlier suggestions that Huobi seeks to go public through a firm acquired in 2018.
Santander has issued a $20 million bond on ethereum, and paid fiat cash for it on the public blockchain as well.
Zero Hash is launching support settlement services for bilateral derivative transactions.
The national stock exchange of the Seychelles is today launching the wrold’s first IPO of tokenized shares, utilizing the ethereum blockchain.
VanEck and SolidX aim to launch a limited bitcoin ETF in the U.S. later this week, according to a report.
HSBC has carried out the first blockchain-based letter of credit transaction denominated in Chinese yuan.
New tech usually struggles with vocabulary, says Noelle Acheson. With bitcoin, the confusion rubs off integral concepts in securities legislation.
Deribit is teaming with institutional traders’ messaging service Paradigm to facilitate block trades of bitcoin and ether derivatives.
FINRA has approved iownit as a broker-dealer, clearing the firm to offer digital securities on a private Hyperledger blockchain.
Pete Najarian previously worked for bitcoin service provider Xapo as senior vice president of institutions.
Telegram forbade investors from selling their gram tokens before launch. Yet the secondary market for grams is lively – and rife with risk.
The Australian Securities Exchange has released its 2019 financial report, offering insight into its upcoming distributed ledger settlement system.
Overstock is opening up trading on its security token market, tZERO, to retail investors starting next week.
Seychelles’ stock exchange has just listed a tokenized security representing its own equity in an apparent world first.
Winklevoss Capital, Galaxy Digital, and ConsenSys funded the crypto lender’s latest round.


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Walt Disney Company To Honor Steve Jobs With Prestigious Award
The late and great Steve Jobs will be receiving the 2013 Disney Legends Award, slated to take place on August 10 during a three-day event associated with D 13 Expo.
The event has been a long-standing Disney tradition since 1987. The award honours those individuals who have exemplified extraordinary creativity and innovation in their life’s work.
Also receiving the award this year are Monsters University stars Billy Crystal, John Goodman, the late TV icon Dick Clark.. The compete list of recipients can be seen at TheHollywoodReporter.Com.
Steve Jobs is the perfect candidate for this award as his ties with the Walt Disney Company is the stuff of legends.
Here is what the Hollywood Reporter had to say:
26-year tradition, the Disney Legends Awards program honors those who are “contributors to the Disney legacy.” Each honoree receives a two-foot-tall bronze Disney Legends sculpture and will participate in a handprint ceremony. Their bronzed prints will be displayed in the Disney Legends Plaza at the company’s Burbank headquarters.
“The Disney Legend Award is our highest and most coveted honor,” said Disney chairman and CEO Bob Iger. “It’s reserved for the extraordinary visionaries and artists behind the Disney magic, the men and women who push the limits of innovation and creativity to ensure Disney remains truly special.”
Over the years, a total of 237 Disney Legends have been honored. Past honorees include Tim Allen, Robin Williams, Julie Andrews, Howard Ashman, Regis Philbin, Annette Funicello, Peter Jennings, Angela Lansbury, Steve Martin, Dick Van Dyke and Barbara Walters.
Congratulations to all and a special Mickey Mouse high five to the late Steve Jobs.
Posted on July 11, 2013, in Apple, Steve Jobs, Technology and tagged Steve Jobs, Walt Disney. Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.
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Wealthy downsizers on the hunt for ultra-prestige apartments have turned their attention to Neutral Bay, with the lower north shore’s most exclusive luxury development just unveiled.
Wirra, a boutique project of 20 residences boasting sweeping harbour and city skyline views, is the latest blue-chip offering from Podia and Centennial, the prominent team behind some of Australia’s best-known builds.
Meticulous attention to quality and intricate detailing establishes an unprecedented standard in Neutral Bay.
Located high on the crest of Ben Boyd Rd, Atlas Director Michael Coombs says Wirra sets a new benchmark in high-end urban living that appeals to cashed-up empty nesters.
Australia’s population aged 65+ is projected to grow to 6.66 million by 2041 from an estimated 4.31 million in 2021 – an increase of 54%.
“The residences are free-flowing and magnificently appointed, delivering an ultra-refined lifestyle for buyers,” Michael Coombs said.
But for many looking to retire on the lower north shore, moving into a “cookie-cutter” apartment is simply not an option.
“There is a massive volume of local empty nesters who demand the very best that money can buy, and this project delivers on all fronts,” Mr Coombs told Mosman Collective.
“Several key criteria come into play when seeking the ideal home: location, quality, and views. Wirra, however, exceeds every expectation in this regard.”
“The meticulous attention to quality and intricate detailing establishes an unprecedented standard in Neutral Bay,” the prestige property specialist says.
Coombs confirmed several of the apartments have already sold prior to the sales launch.
From lavish garden apartments to crowning penthouses, each three-bedroom residence – ranging in size from 140 sqm to 210 sqm and ranging in price from $4.45 million to $15.5 million – has been carefully thought out by award-winning architects MHNDU, with interiors curated by Richards Stanisich.
“The residences are free-flowing and magnificently appointed, delivering an ultra-refined lifestyle for buyers,” Coombs said.
“Each one boasts vast, house-like proportions that you won’t find in any other development on the lower north shore.”
The price guide for the apartments will be $4.45 to $15 million for the penthouse.
At a special VIP event earlier this week, guests experienced the Wirra development brought to life, in a display suite now open on Belmont Rd.
“The official sales launch hasn’t taken place yet, but I can confirm several Wirra residences have already been sold,” Coombs said, “with just 20 apartments, it’s going to be a case of first in, best dressed.”
Atlas Director Michael Coombs said the Wirra development “sets a new benchmark” for prestige, ultra-luxury living.
Designed for entertaining, apartments will include a grand dining room with a custom-crafted stone/glass bar and travertine double-sided fireplaces. A clever bookcase feature creates a stylish room partition, allowing light and views through, allowing residents to expand the space according to their needs.


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It goes without saying that Black Friday has become something of a big deal, pun intended. Each year sales rise and new records are broken, with SME’s hoping to add their own success to the figures. This year we’ve partnered with AO.com to bring you all the insights you could need to make this Black Friday the most profitable yet.
What is Black Friday
Just in case you didn’t know, Black Friday is a retail extravaganza originating in the US and taking place on the Friday following Thanksgiving. While our American neighbours may have invented the retail holiday, we’ve certainly made it our own since its arrival in 2010.
This year Black Friday will take place on November 24th, with Cyber Monday following on November 27th. While traditionally Cyber Monday was set aside for online retailers with brick-and-mortar retailers claiming Black Friday, rapid ecommerce growth has all but erased the conventional setup. Today consumers can find online deals across the whole weekend, with many retailers now starting their sales up to a week before the big day.
Amazon has already started their Black Friday sale, a full week before the official day.
Now a permanent highlight in our retail calendar, Black Friday boasts some of the best deals of the year. For consumers, it’s a chance to save on their holiday shopping, while retailers hope to attract new customers and boost revenue.
Big day, big deal
Taking place at the start of the real run-up to Christmas, many stores take the bulk of their holiday sales during this time. With shoppers eager to bag a bargain it’s a chance for retailers to shift holiday stock and get their products under customer’s Christmas trees.
Last year saw consumers spend £1.23bn on Black Friday alone, a 12.2% increase on the year before. Online sales continue to dominate with 2016 seeing a record number of transactions. At AO.com alone there were over 30 orders a minute during peak shopping hours, and this year looks set to be even bigger. As an opportunity to attract new customers, retailers could see growth beyond the Black Friday mayhem.
Let the numbers guide you
As well as record-breaking sales figures, last year’s stats indicate the areas that could make or break retailers this year. To help you make the most of this huge event we’ve delved into the numbers and uncovered some game-changing insights.
Make it mobile
If you haven’t already, make sure your mobile game is up to scratch. Mobile sales continue to grow every year and Black Friday is no different. Nearly half of all online spend in the UK was spent on a mobile device last year. That’s a huge increase of 26% compared to the year before, and if mobile trends are any indication this figure could well rise again this year.
Your website is probably already responsive, but test it out on a range of screen sizes before the big day. Ideally, test it with any of Black Friday banners and promotional content to make sure everything is clear and clickable.
Don’t forget your other content either. From email marketing to Google display ads, test each in a mobile format to make sure customers are getting the best experience on every device. Remember to keep everything concise and any CTA’s big enough to be clickable on the smaller screen.
It’s all about the timing
With customers queueing up before shop doors open and many online in the early hours of the morning, it may come as a surprise that the peak shopping time was between 1pm and 2pm last year. If you’ve previously taken part in Black Friday, take a look at your own data to see if this matches up.
Peak times are a great opportunity to promote your best deals and increase your average order value (AOV). Save your most expensive items or discounts on bundled products for these hours and make the most of the larger audience.
You can also hold exclusive deals on different days and even at different hours during the day. Not only does this give customers a reason to keep coming back, it can also help spread your website traffic. This can be anything from a different type of a discount to a new product category added to the sale.
Make sure your website is ready
While spreading your deals out can help with high volume peak hours, there’s no avoiding the increase in traffic over the weekend. Last year website traffic was up by 220% compared to a normal day, and it’s not unheard of for even big brands to experience some downtime. The last thing any retailer wants is to stop selling on the biggest sales day of the year. In the price rush, even a slow website could see customers flock to your competitors.
Make sure your website is up to the job by speaking to your hosting provider and considering a content delivery network. A CDN can store a cached version of your website content on servers in multiple locations. This improves your coverage and delivers content to visitors from the nearest server, plus saves time on loading fresh content.
You can also look at your page speed by seeing if any web images or files can be reduced in size and improving your caching setup.
Let people know you’re secure
Security is a key incentive for customers and most are more cyber aware than ever before. Double check your website and payment security and don’t be afraid to let customers know just how secure you are. Now that any web pages with form fields are flagged as HTTP and ‘not sure’ by Chrome, it’s especially important to get your website HTTPS secure. You can find out more about migrating to HTTPS in this blog post.
Make Black Friday your own
While general stats can tell us a lot about what works on Black Friday, don’t forget your own data. The big retailers account for a lot of the figures, but small businesses can certainly make Black Friday their own. Look at your own market and customer behaviour from previous years to identify areas of focus for this year. Big site-wide sales might make a statement, but there may be more specific discounts that are just as attractive and kinder to your margins.
From PPC to email marketing, your digital presence has a direct impact on your business growth over the holidays and beyond. Discover how we can help you start strategizing for success by contacting on of our team today.


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The frozen food industry has been growing rapidly for several years. Current growth projections indicate the market will almost double in the next 8 years, from $265 Billion in 2022 to over $500 billion by 2030. Recent news about the state of the United States economy and rising prices may be contributing to the industry’s development. . Factors ranging from affordability and consumer preferences, to innovation and shelf life can influence global frozen food consumption.
During a recession, consumers may opt for more cost-effective food choices, including frozen foods. The convenience and relatively lower cost of frozen foods compared to dining out or purchasing a variety of fresh ingredients can make them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Research shows that frozen foods are 50% cheaper than fresh products. During a time of high inflation, almost 5% in 2023, lower food prices is likely to drive consumers to the frozen food aisle.
Some consumers may alter their consumption patterns during a recession, favoring essential products over luxury items. This could lead to an increased demand for staple frozen food items such as vegetables, fruits, meat, and basic meal options. The yearly global market report for the frozen food industry performed by Astute Analytica states that the global trade of frozen fruits and vegetables has grown an average of 3.5% per year. This is mainly due to the fact that frozen fruits and vegetables hold their nutritional value for longer after being frozen compared to fresh produce.
Frozen food offerings have evolved considerably since the 1950’s dinner tray. Every year there are new technological advances that allow for more complex prepared foods to be frozen without compromising quality. The introduction of healthier meals and snacks, along with more global recipes has the potential to attract new consumers to the frozen food category.
One advantage of frozen foods is their extended shelf life. During uncertain economic times, consumers may prefer to stock up on longer-lasting food items. Many Frozen foods can be stored for up to 3-6 months, allowing consumers to buy in bulk and reduce the frequency of grocery shopping trips.
To learn more about how eGourmet Solutions has planned around the economy and how we can help you during uncertain times, contact us today!


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Check Out 7 Minutes of Raw 4K Gameplay for Need for Speed Heat
Ever since EA teased that a new Need for Speed game was coming this year, fans of the series have been eager to see whether it’ll be a worthwhile entry or just another disappointment (*cough* Payback *cough*). Ghost Games revealed that the game will be called Need for Speed Heat prior to Gamescom, and now we get to see our first peek at its gameplay.
The gameplay video comes courtesy of IGN. In it, we get to witness a couple of races: one during daytime, which is supposedly when legal races occur, then another at nighttime, when races and the police tend to go outside the law. The graphics are top-notch and the physics seem to be on point from what we can see, but you’ve got to wonder why lamposts still behave the way they do in racing games in 2019.
You can check out the full gameplay video below:
A gameplay trailer was also released a few days earlier, although it doesn’t really show as much as the raw gameplay video. Still, in case you missed it, you can check it out below:
As previously revealed, players will be able to earn cash for upgrading and customizing cars by participating in sanctioned races that take place during the day. At night, illegal street races will allow players to add to their reputation. There’s also the ‘heat‘ mechanic which makes the police more aggressive as you accumulate more of it.
Need for Speed Heat is set to launch on November 8th for PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4.


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Brandless has confirmed that it’s shutting down. The two-year-old company had raised nearly $300 million from SoftBank in order to sell its own line of household goods and personal care products over the internet.
The failure marks the first time one of SoftBank’s portfolio companies has raised the white flag. Others like Wag, a dog walking app that raised $360 million (I’m not joking), and Zume Pizza, a company that bagged $400 million to automate the creation of ‘za, have laid off employees or changed their businesses as SoftBank begins to demand profits.
Brandless didn’t make sense — The idea played on the rise of “direct-to-consumer” brands that make simple but quality products and sell them exclusively through their own storefronts. Brandless products like matcha tea and multivitamins had minimalist packaging and were supposed to be free of any harmful ingredients. Customers could create subscription boxes that would deliver the same products to their homes on a recurring basis.
The problem with Brandless was that it was set up for failure. The company was reportedly valued by investors at $500 million in 2018 just a year after launch, even though there’s basically nothing magical or amazing about its peanut butter or tortilla chips — in fact, the company's products were plagued by quality control issues. And investors in Brandless ideally wanted to make back their $300 million investment in the company multiple times over, meaning Brandless would have to sell a lot of toothpaste and mouthwash. Worse is that since it sold everything online, the company was reportedly losing money thanks to high shipping costs. Consumer packaged goods like the ones Brandless sold have very low margins of profit, and because the company doesn't have scale like Amazon it wasn't able to drive costs down.
Money doesn’t solve all problems — SoftBank’s investment strategy has been to throw insane sums of money at companies in the hopes of supercharging them and creating behemoths. Its other investments have included the likes of Uber and Slack. But what we’re seeing is that a war chest alone isn’t enough if there isn’t also a solid strategy in place to grow and make money.
Brandless could have been totally a fine business if it hadn’t raised so much money! But it wasn’t a billion dollar company. Once it took in all that cash, it had an obligation to grow sales fast while creating a profitable business and couldn’t do it. Amazon already sees massive efficiencies from millions of customers paying for Prime and merchants paying commissions to sell to them, not to speak of its money-printing AWS business. It could use that money to build out its own shipping infrastructure, and its scale to demand lower prices across the board. Brandless didn't have any of that, so it was always fighting an uphill battle.
Other SoftBank investments have fared similarly. Wag, the dog walking app, has been floundering since it realized that — shocker, there just aren’t enough people in need of a dog walker to create a $1 billion company.The Wall Street Journal reported recently that basically nobody wants to make the mistake of investing in SoftBank's next fund.


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POSTED: Friday, April 22, 2011 - 10:02am
UPDATED: Friday, April 22, 2011 - 10:15am
New survey says the recession has caused many Americans to change their energy habits.
Millions of Americans have been turning off the lights.
"We found that 75% of consumers today turn off lights, even for a brief period of time in order to save electricity," said Greg Aliff of Deloitte U.S. Energy & Resources.
A Deloitte survey of three-thousand consumers across the country found most taking other energy-saving steps like lower thermostats in winter and higher in summer.
But the survey found these steps are more about conserving cash than conserving energy.
During the recession, people latched on to the idea that saving energy, saves money and they're sticking to it.
And it's not just electricity.
Just like in 2008, when gas prices go up, driving goes down.
In fact, service stations report gas sales are off three-percent so far this year.