text:
The board of David Jones has endorsed a $2.15 billion takeover offer from South African based retail group Woolworths. In response to the news, Myer has withdrawn its proposed "merger of equals" offer.
Both the department stores disappointed with their results for the first half of FY2014, leading to open discussions of a possible merger. Plus, changes to the junior award, ACCC getting serious about online retail and NORA board appointments.
We have more on how to adapt to the new APPs; some interesting analysis of how the DJs/Myer merger might affect the companies; Cash Converters' profit collapses; Pac Brands gets a speeding ticket and CIS builds HP in-mall kiosks.
Noni B recorded an after tax profit of $1.9 million, a decline of 2.8 per cent, for the six months to 31 December 2013. Also down is consumer sentiment and satisfaction, while sales are up for ALDI and The Iconic and the ASIC is getting angrier.
Make Yourself A Home is making itself a mantle to hold its award from Californian interior design bible Houzz. Plus, we look at the tools in-store staff need in the modern retail world and reveal the Top 10 retiail loyalty programs. And more on DJs/Myer,
Just 18 months after David Jones was subject to a bizarre takeover bid from a relatively unknown company in the UK, talks of a merger have once again surfaced - this time with department store competitor Myer.
While increased occupancy costs, including rent, utilities, rates, taxes, as well as labour costs continue to largely impact the cost of doing business, Myer is geared up for the short and long term.
Myer's execution of its five point plan has helped lift first quarter sales for the 2014 financial year to $691.1 million, up 0.44 per cent compared to last year.
sass & bide founders Heidi Middleton and Sarah-Jane Clarke have confirmed they will remain in the business as creative director and brand director respectively, following reports they had resigned from their positions.
The heads of department store Myer have used the company's annual report to call for retail reform in Australia, saying the local sector needs to become more competitive in the global retail marketplace.
Myer has opened a fulfilment warehouse in partnership with logistics provider Cargo Services Group to support the growth of its online store.
Australian fashion designer Nicola Finetti has signed an exclusive agreement with David Jones, following Finetti's soon-to-be expired contract with Myer.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted Myer interim authorisation to coordinate various promotions with existing businesses operating in its Myer stores.
Myer has secured a department store exclusive with the launch of Australian designer sleepwear and underwear brand Peter Alexander Sleepwear.
Major store refurbishments, investment in its omni-channel initiatives and rising ongoing operating costs like wages, rents and electricity have put a dent in Myer's full year net profit for the year.
Myer has initiated a tender process to give creative agencies the opportunity to join the department store.
Specsavers was awarded the coveted 2013 Visa Australian Retailer of the Year award at the 2013 Australian Retailers Association Australian Retail Awards on Tuesday.
Myer and Shoes of Prey have been announced as finalists at the World Retail Awards.
Owners and managers of retailers including Dick Smith, Myer, David Jones, Woolworths and Rebel Sport are some of top 25 finalists in the running for the National Retail Association Young Retailer of the Year title.
Myer has managed to report positive results for the third quarter for the 13 weeks to 27 April 2013.
Less than two weeks in court, Myer and Australian fashion designer Kym Ellery have reached a mutually agreed settlement.
Court proceedings between Australian fashion designer Kymberley Ellery and Myer has begun.
Myer has lifted its first half year sales for the first time since 2010.
Myer and David Jones are in a bitter battle for one of Australia's top designer labels, Ellery.
Myer has launched a number of IT initiatives as it continues to execute its omni-channel strategy.
phdcreative has partnered with Van Heusen to bring a large format interactive touchscreen to the menswear floor of the Myer Sydney City store.
Myer advises Judy Coomber, group general manager merchandise has resigned and will leave the business for Peter Alexander.
Myer has released a positive sales figure for its department store assets for the first quarter of the 2013 financial year.
Their customers will be rewarded with points for using their Commonwealth Bank Awards credit card in-store at Myer.
The store opens as part of the redevelopment of Stockland shopping centre in Townsville.
Choice recently conducted a Shadow Shopper survey for the top ten retailers in Australia to see how their customer service skills stack up against one another.
Despite the disappointing financial results, Myer proceeds to open new stores with the latest addition being its Fountain Gate store at Fountain Gate Westfield Shopping Centre in Victoria.
While Myer continues to feel the financial pinch it aims to continue to roll out its five-point strategic plan, which it hopes will better position the company for the future.
Howard McDonald will retire as Myer's chairman in October while Paul McClintock has announced his appointment as non-executive director and chairman-elect of the company.
Myer has been forced to cut 100 staff in order to continue viable operation in what has been described as the toughest conditions the retail sector has experienced in over 25 years.
The company that has made a $1.65 billion takeover bid for David Jones has been revealed by a UK blog site as EB Private Equity.
Myer is building a new two-level 12,000 square metre store at Casuarina Square in Darwin featuring a large range of apparel, cosmetics, homewares and electrical merchandise.
Low foot traffic and a drop in sales in April, which has carried on into May, have forced Myer to re-evaluate its net profit after tax forecast for 2012 financial year.
Myer continues to make good progress adapting itself to the changing retail environment but it hasn't been enough to help the company's half-year earnings where NPAT was down 19.8 per cent.
Not only are Australian retailers already paying higher labour and rent costs than overseas peers, they are also paying a high price for stock as they continue to fight the against its online competitors.
Following the buyout of Pacific Brands recently by a US-based private broker, Deutsche Bank has highlighted that Harvey Norman and David Jones are the next probable takeover targets.
Myer has announced that it will look at discontinuing the lease of underperforming stores and finding a partner to help with its omin-channel strategy.
Despite seeing first quarter total sales slip 3.5 per cent down to $681 million, Myer continues to remain optimistic.
Myer sales are down 3.5 per cent for the first quarter of the 2012 financial year to $681.4 million but still anticipates that sales for the full year to be flat.
The 10,000 metre squared two-level store will provide a range of international and national Myer exclusive brands across a variety of categories.
The department store reported a net profit after tax result of $162.7 million. Meanwhile, sales were down 3.8 per cent to $3.16 million and on a like-for-like basis it was down 5.5 per cent.
Myer has restructured its executive team after its executive general manager merchandise Penny Winn resigned, moving over to Woolworths.
Myer has extended Bernie Brookes' contract as chief executive officer and managing director of the company for a further two years.
As of Tuesday, Myer has become the first and only Australian department store to remove its shipping and handling costs for all products bought via its website gifts.myer.com.au.
The development of a flagship store will see Myer dedicate multiple storeys to their store while leaving additional floor space for specialty retailers to set up shop.
Poor results from its all-important Clearance period in June and Clearance Clearout in early July has forced retailer David Jones to downgrade its profit guidance for the remainder of 2011 financial year.
Online sales will soon take a larger share of retail growth in Australia according to research from investment firm Morgan Stanley.
Currently, the company directly outsources around $150 million worth of products and aims to increase that to $200 million by opening two dedicated global sourcing offices.
Like rival David Jones, Myer continues to feel the pressure from the conservative consumer sentiment, reporting total sales for the third quarter of $657 million, down 2 per cent compared to last year.
According to the 2011 Corporate Reputation Index, compiled by research consultancy AMR, JB Hi-Fi is viewed by Australians as having the best overall reputation based on strong perceptions around its products and innovation.
It’s taken four years and $300 million to rebuild the flagship store that is expected to attract over 25 million visitors each year. It delivers fashion, beauty, entertainment and lifestyle in a nine-level light-filled space with an atrium and centrepie
Bunnings has beat retail rivals David Jones and Myer by scoring the People’s CHOICE award for best bricks and mortar retailer at the CHOICE Awards.
The fortunes of department store rivals David Jones and Myer could not be more different, with the Macquarie Securities Group saying DJs is outperforming whilst Myer is lagging well behind market expectations.
Department store giant Myer has reported a 3.5 per cent drop in sales to $1,733 million compared to $1,797 million from the previous corresponding period.
Having previously made threats to launch a China-based retail website Myer has gone live with an experimental offshore online shopping site, myfind.com.
While sass & bide will operate as a separate entity, Myer will have exclusive department store rights to distribute the designer brand, as well as benefit from the expansion of sass & bide standalone store network and its domestic and international wholes
Myer has downgraded its profit outlook for the FY11 to be five per cent less than it was initially stated, which was a five to 10 per cent growth.t expects first half net profit after tax to be in the range of $106 million to $109 million.
Ruslan Kogan from Kogan Technologies is calling out Gerry Harvey and Bernie Brookes on their bluff in regards to taking their e-commerce sites offshore to China.
As part of the growth stage, at least 16 new managers will be appointed in the next two months across merchandise, business services, finance, marketing, electrical, entertainment and IT
Myer has reported sales for the period ending 30 October is down 1.53 per cent to $706 million compared to the previous corresponding period, in which Myer delivered a record result with sales growth of 5.21 per cent.
Myer has reaffirmed its anticipation for its net profit to grow between 5 to 10 per cent in the 2011 financial year.
In its first annual review since it was listed on the Australian Stock Exchange on November 2, 2009, company chairman Howard McDonald said the company faced several external challenges.
REDgroup Retail has appointed Adrian Jones to the role of group commercial director.
David Jones surpassed Myer by a small margin with 32 per cent of respondents stating that Myer was the most trusted department store brand while DJs came out on top with 36 per cent.
Myer said it hopes to bring a solid platform for growth through investing significantly in technology.
The company saw sales increase by 0.7 per cent from $3.261 million to $3, 284 million.
Myer has expanded the range of benefits that are available to its customers by launching a suite of general insurance products, 'Myer Insurance, Issued by QBE'.
A study has found that retailers such as Big W, Dick Smith and Myer are 25 per cent more likely to offer email recipients choices during the opt-in stage than those in the US, but lag behind in offering consumers sale or discount incentives.
According to Myer CEO Bernie Brookes, the refurbishment program for its retail stores is nearing completion. He said that an expansion plan for 15 new stores is also in development.
Myer has appointed Peter Hay as a non-executive director of the company.
Myer Holdings Limited has released its sales figures today for the first half of FY10 to 23 January 2010. The retailer posted total sales revenue of $1,797 million, up two per cent compared to the corresponding period last year.
Despite economic talk turning towards recovery, IBISWorld predicts rising interest rates and the absence of cash hand-outs will see consumers saving more than spending this Christmas.
Carla Zampatti has signed an exclusive agreement with David Jones, which provides that both the Carla Zampatti and Bianca Spender brands will become department store exclusive to David Jones.
Myer Holdings has lodged its prospectus for the initial public offer of its shares with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission ahead of Myer's planned listing on the Australian Securities Exchange.
Myer is expanding its chain of 65 stores nationwide to 80 by 2014, with three new stores to be opened within five years.
Myer has appointed Anne Brennan as non-executive director, effective immediately.
Myer has just released its full year financial results to 25 July 2009, and despite the fact that the company is currently 39 months into its 50 month turnaround phase, the company performed exceedingly well.
Myer has issued a report to the ASX outlining that it has revised its previous economic outlook for the year after strong customer response to promotional offers, improved store presentation and local marketing.


text:
Its seems like free games for Playstation Plus subscribers for the month of June 2014 has been leaked. As per the details in the image below, Playstation 4 with Playstation Plus subscribers will get Pixeljunk Shooter Ultimate.
Playstation 3 owners will get NBA 2K14 and Lone Survivor and Playstation Vita owners will be able to enjoy Dragon Crown. The image below showcase the content and just appeared on Polish Playstation Store. According to recent tweet from Playstation Germany, it seems like the official announcement regarding to it will arrive tomorrow.
“The contents of # PSplus in June will be announced tomorrow. @ deppio123” reads a tweet from Playstation Germany Twitter account.
Another indie title as free game for PlayStation 4 owners, it seems like when Sony said they’re investing heavily in indie devs this generation, this is what they mean?
For those who are shouting that PS Vita owners suppose to get two games for free, Shooter Ultimate appears to be a Cross Play.
Tell us in comments below, are you guys excited about June 2014 line-up of Playstation Plus content?

domain: news


text:
Street Fighter V to Have Final Season ( via Capcom )
In the absence of Evo 2020, it looks like Capcom will be using its online presence to distribute news. This week, Capcom announced that Street Fighter V will be seeing one more season, the fifth in total. Naturally they’re calling it “Season V.” Five new characters will round out the roster, and three more stages will be added.
PS5 Reveal Rumor Picking up Steam ( via Bloomberg )
Multiple reputable personalities and sources in the games media are sharing a story that could tell us when we get the first true look at the PlayStation 5. From Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier and more, the current plan seems to be a showcase event on June 3, 2020. Schreier notes that the pandemic could mean last minute changes, but this date is more “firm” than most.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Soundtrack Available Digitally ( via Square Enix )
Square Enix struck gold with Final Fantasy VII Remake , and now has one of the best-selling games of 2020 so far, and easily the fastest-selling game in the Final Fantasy series. So naturally it’s important to capitalize on that success with more stuff. The game’s epic soundtrack, which spans 7 discs comprising over 8 hours of music, is now available for purchase digitally. A special physical edition is also out, but is currently backordered already.


text:
The Foster's team is heading to eight pubs across Luton and Watford tonight and tomorrow (3-4 November). The campaign aims to show customers the benefits of Foster’s new Pourtal technology and specially designed glass.
Events began last month, and allow consumers to pour their very own pint of Foster’s and receive a T-shirt for their efforts.
Whynot! has produced branded point of sale materials, including drip mats, bar runners, tent cards and posters, along with an instructional video for bar staff.
Foster’s brand manager Nic Casby said the events are "a fantastic vehicle to truly educate and engage our target audience".
Whynot! managing director Nick Whitehurst added: "We are delighted to be working with Foster’s on what we believe will be a successful campaign to reinforce their quality initiative."
To leave a comment register and let us know your thoughts.


text:
You don’t have to be an entrepreneur, innovator or possessor of the next best idea since sliced bread to make a decent amount of dough.
Owning a franchise of a successful business is a viable career option for motivated and hardworking individuals, and some evidence points to Oklahoma City being a ripe market for franchise opportunities.
“It’s a good place to live, its lower cost of living, there’s a lot of business booming there so there are businesses that thrive,” said Sara Waskow, FranNet owner for the Dallas/Fort Worth and Oklahoma region.
Waskow owns a FranNet franchise, which works to help connect aspiring franchisees with fitting franchisers. Franchising is about more than french fries, she said, and there are many options in many industries for aspiring business owners. Home improvement, fitness centers and more are some of the many businesses seeking to expand a presence in Oklahoma and the Oklahoma City metro area as growth continues.
“A lot of the services we consider recession-resistant are the things that simplify life,” Waskow said. “Those are the types of industries that really want to be in Oklahoma City.”
As 2018 comes to a close and 2019 rolls in, some will look to take their careers in a different direction or supplement their income. Franchising in this market can serve both purposes, according to Waskow. Startup costs including franchise fees and salaries and insurance, etc., can be less than $100,000, she said.
“A lot of my clients are looking to give back and provide a needed service to the community,” Waskow said. “Sometimes people going to a job don’t feel that same gratification.”
On the other side of the franchise business model, Coolgreens CEO Robert Lee is expecting to nearly double the size of the business in the next six months, largely due to selling franchises.
Coolgreens started locally in 2009, a health-conscious restaurant most well-known for its variety of fresh salads, sandwiches and wraps. Lee credits the culture in Oklahoma City for the company’s ability to grow within the past decade.


text:
Tyumen companies received premium status at the largest electronic sites in the world
The Tyumen Region Export Support Center has summed up the selection for free placement of small and medium-sized enterprises in Alibaba, All.biz and GRT for a period of one calendar year. The competition was held as part of the launch of a new service for assisting exporting enterprises, provided for by the national project “International Cooperation and Export”.
The launch of accounts of Tyumen enterprises on the largest electronic trading floors in the world took place at the end of last week. Three companies received the status of a “golden supplier” on Alibaba: Tyumen Aerosols, Zavodoukovsky creamery and TyumenEkoproduct, on All.biz - 6 companies: INOMA, Okeych, Rusich, Timber Processing Complex “Tobol”, TD “Bizon”, IP Muratov.
In addition, an agreement was concluded for the placement of 8 accounts on the GlobalRusTrade platform, working with 33 countries of the world. Here are the products of companies: SibTopProm, Rusich, Siberian healer, Uvat-les, Denit, LP “Varvara”, IP Korobov, Experimental tracked tractor plant.
“In total, 49 companies claimed to receive this service. The expert commission focused on the most promising, capable of actively developing in the direction of international electronic commerce, ”said Sergey Polukhin, head of the Export Support Center of the Tyumen Region. “Each of them is presented in the“ premium ”status, which gives companies enhanced opportunities for presenting their products: priority when searching for customers, increased number of shop-window products and the volume of the photobank.”
Also, an account of the Tyumen Region Export Support Center was launched on each trading platform - a regional "showcase" of export-oriented manufacturers.
As a result, products from Tyumen enterprises producing chips, confectionery and bakery products, soft drinks, tea and coffee, ice cream, fish food, essential oils, cosmetics, catamarans, fire extinguishers, chemical protection and self-defense products were presented on international platforms this year. repellents, building materials, as well as those working in the field of engineering and logging.
In 2020, the CPE will conduct a new selection for the provision of services to facilitate the placement of small and medium-sized businesses on electronic B2B-trading platforms. Acceptance of applications for placement of accounts will be open in the near future.


text:
Electrify Canada, a new partnership between Volkswagen Group Canada and Electrify America, plans to build an electric vehicle charging network across Canada.
This project is an offshoot of Electrify America, which itself is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Automotive Group. Like its counterpart here in Canada, Electrify America is building an EV charging network across the U.S.
Electrify Canada stations will offer both CHAdeMO and CCS charging ports. The ports will provide DC charging speeds of 50, 150 or 350kW, enabling them to support a wide range of modern electric vehicles. Each station will also be capable of texting car owners with the status of their vehicle’s charge.
At the moment, the organization plans to build 32 stations in southern Britsh Columbia, Ontario and Quebec. Construction is set to start in Q2 2019.
This marks the second major EV charging announcement in one week. On Wednesday, Petro-Canada announced plans to build a Canada-wide charging network along the Trans-Canada Highway.
When asked about competition in the EV charging market Volkswagen Automotive Group Canada’s CEO and president Daniel Weisslans said, ” I don’t see it as competition, to be honest, I think it’s just complimentary because at the end of the day we need those chargers.”
Another reason Volkswagen appreciated other companies investing in EV charging is to help take the cost off of the automaker. The Electrify Canada chargers cost around “half a million dollars,” said Weissland.
When asked if the company was going to use VW’s newly announced portable chargers, Weissland explains that the company is instead focusing on high-performance fast chargers instead, which need liquid cooled cables to transfer energy at a 150 to 35okW rate.
This story has been updated with relevant information from an interview with Volkswagen Canada’s CEO.
Source: Electrify Canada


text:
Luxury Fibre & Textiles
From Just Style
Luxury fibres and fabrics: Challenges and opportunities
Clothing labels worldwide are usually a standard read, with fibre names such as ‘cotton,’ ‘nylon’ and ‘polyester’ remaining constant from season to season. But when it comes to luxury textiles, there seem to be more evolving trends in terms of fibres used – along with more dynamic changes in supply and demand.
Richard Gough, managing director at Australia’s St Albans Textiles – a major manufacturer of products made from natural fibres such as mohair and alpaca – said that currently, consumers are very much looking for “purity” in the fibres they purchase.
“They want to know the chain in manufacturing, [and] they are happy to pay for luxury with the story,” he said.
Presently, said Mr Gough, alpaca and cashmere are two of the most sought after luxury fabrics.
However, he said, there has been a slight shift when it comes to actual cashmere production: “Cashmere [spun and knitted in] Europe is the best – but most product comes now from cashmere yarn spun in China,” said Mr Gough.
He added there is an overall trend in terms of sourcing high-end textiles: “With yarn – not so much with fibre – China is a dominant force, and many top European houses have moved their skills to China for the price.”
Looking at luxury fibres that have lost prominence in recent years, Gough said that wool in particular “has really taken a beating,” suggesting this may be accredited to a combination of factors.
Part of this is technical and about cost – with an increasing trend of ‘mixing’ fibres. But environmentalist campaigns have also had an effect in dampening wool demand – with campaigns by global animal rights organisation PETA against sheep shearing and wool production having an impact.
Overall, said Gough, the global sourcing of luxury fibres has been affected in recent years by both environmental and economic climate. For example, he said, Australia’s long drought (which ended this year) “has played a major role, as has the dollar worldwide…mills are closing and processors are
Gough added that consistency of supply can also be an issue as, “depending on the animal and country, food over fibre has taken its toll.”
Despite some regional setbacks however, Peruvian luxury fashion designer and consultant José Miguel Valdivia said that demand for luxury fibres in general remains strong.
“Luxury items from all over the world have had an incredible boost over the last few years – despite the big international financial crisis,” he said. “People are looking for something more sure and safe in clothing.”
Anne Pastré, owner and founder of Muriée, a Germany-based brand specialising in organic luxury cashmere knits agreed: “Luxury fibres have seen a renaissance during the years of [economic] crises – the consumer has become aware of the benefits of purchasing quality.”
In fact, she said, her company has been seeing a rapidly increasing demand in recent years for its very high-quality cashmere.
“In economically challenging times, people are seeking warranties when buying an investment piece – cashmere is seen as a quality seal in itself; a fibre everybody connects with exclusivity and traditional luxury,” said Pastré, adding that Muriée uses only the finest and longest cashmere fibres it can find, sourced from Inner Mongolia; spun by a specialised, family-run company in the south of Italy; and dyed in Austria with natural products including flowers, leaves and heartwood infusions.
She noted that silk is one fibre that has been disappearing from the luxury world for some years, mainly because of fashion requiring “more structured, polished and stable materials.”
However, added Pastré, for about two to three fashion seasons now, there has been evidence of a revival of silk, “especially printed, and very fluid qualities thanks to designers like Phoebe Philo at Céline and Stella McCartney
Sustainable Luxury Fibre Production
No posts found!


text:
East Delta Mills net income falls 25 percent
Egyptian milling company, East Delta Mills (EDFM), reported a 25.3 percent drop in its net profits for the nine-month period, which ended March 31, 2002. The company’s bottom line was set at 17.81 million Egyptian pounds ($3.85 million), down from EP23.86 million during the corresponding period the pervious financial year.
The net profit decline was largely attributed to a seven percent increase in the cost of goods sold (COGS) reaching reached EP317.27 million. The company’s gross profit thus fell 18 percent to EP25.69 million. The drop in net income came despite a 4.3 percent increase in sales revenues that were recorded at EP342.96 million, according the company’s financial statements. — (menareport.com)
© 2002 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)


text:
A 19-year-old American woman has sold her virginity to a Middle Eastern businessman for $3 million, allowing her to pay for college, travel the world, and buy a house, Sky News Australia is reporting.
The woman, who simply goes by the name "Giselle," claims to be a model. Using the German website Cinderella Escorts, the teen took bids from around the world, eventually awarding the honor to the highest bidder, identified only as a businessman from Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. His bid was 2.5 million euros ($2.87 million). The next-highest bid, from an unnamed "Hollywood actor," was $2.4 million, followed by a bid of $1.8 million from a "Russian politician."
Cinderella Escorts will take a 20 percent cut of the auction price; the remainder will be paid in cash to Giselle on the day of the "transaction."
For now, Giselle, her patron, and the website are coordinating all of the logistics to complete the sale. It will take place at a hotel in Germany, where a security guard will stand by outside "in case of problems." The terms of her sale allow her to cancel the transaction at any time, though Giselle says she's confident there won't be any issues. She says she's been speaking to her patron and that she trusts him.
THIS MODEL IS DESPERATE.ME I CAN'T SELL MY VIRGINITY TO HAVE MONEY TO PAY MY TUITION FEES,TRAVELING,TO BUY ANYTHING.I DON'T NEED ANYONE'S MONEY????????Teenage model Giselle 'sells her virginity on Cinderella Escorts for £2 million to Abu Dhabi businessman'https://t.co/WfWk1wePfwGiselle's auction, like the similar auctions of other young women who have sold their virginity on the website, has not been well-received, particularly from other women, who accuse these girls of resorting to what is essentially prostitution.
—????ĘĽĮŻÅBËŢH PĄMÄ???? (@elizabethpama) November 17, 2017
Giselle disagrees, saying her decision to sell her virginity is hers and hers alone. What's more, using her sexuality for her benefit is empowering.
"[I'm part of] a women's movement that advocates freedom and self-determination of sexuality and finally breaks the taboo about a woman's virginity. In retrospect, how many would probably give up their first time if they could have 2.5 million euros instead?"Cinderella Escorts, in case you were wondering, operates in Germany, where prostitution is legal. Besides offering more traditional "services," the website features several other young women, from around the world, selling their virginity, with some fetching bids in the millions of euros.
As for how the website verifies that the women are virgins, the website claims that they (the women) are examined by a doctor, who provides proof.
"Her virginity has been checked by a doctor and Cinderella Escorts has a medical certificate as proof of this!"However, according to teen sexuality website Sex Etc., the notion that a doctor can examine a woman's vagina (for the presence or absence of a hymen) and conclusively say that she's a virgin is little more than a folk superstition.
[Featured Image by Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock]


text:
You are here
Further New Zealand rate cuts still a possibility
AMID the recent falling prices in dairy products - New Zealand's main export - and a weakening economic outlook on its home front, the Royal Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) decided to carry out its third cut to their official cash rates (OCR) within a four month period starting from June 2015.
- CALL +65 6388 3838
- EMAIL firstname.lastname@example.org


text:
Advertisers are being targeted by City of London Police in a crackdown aimed at crippling websites involved in digital piracy.
Last week police from the Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) visited eight advertising agencies, brands and ad networks to warn them about placing advertising on sites that illegally host copyright material.
The visits were part of Operation Creative, launched four years ago to disrupt advertising on illegal websites around the world. Police have put 1232 websites on an Infringing Website List (IWL) which is then shared with advertisers, agencies and intermediary networks.
According to a Digital Citizens Alliance report, piracy sites generated US$227 million (£185m) in 2013 from some of the world's leading brands.
City of London Police, which leads the initiative, claims to have achieved a 73 percent reduction in advertising from the UK's top ad spending companies.
This is one way of getting to the operators of these sites who are notoriously difficult to investigate, extradite and prosecute.
The Gambling Commission joined Operation Creative in 2015 and began encouraging gaming sites to observe the IWL which resulted in a 36 percent drop in the number of gambling ads on listed sites from March to June 2015.
Lead officer DC Steven Salway said that cutting off funding is the key to disrupting the sites.
“It is important we tackle this issue, not only for brands' and businesses' reputation, but for consumers, too,” he said. “When adverts from established brands appear on these sites, they lend them a look of legitimacy. By working with industry to discourage reputable brands from advertising on piracy sites, we will help consumers realise these sites are neither official nor legal.”
City of London Police said once the eight organisations were told that they were placing ads on websites that infringe copyright, they were “keen to support Operation Creative”, pledging to adopt the IWL.
Hosting copyright material without permission is criminal piracy. However, a City of London Police spokesman told SC Media UK that PIPCU doesn't view unintentional advertising on piracy sites as “a prosecution opportunity”, preferring to cooperate with them to remove their ads from these sites.
However, if a company continued to advertise on a piracy site, they could be prosecuted for money laundering offences.
The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) was a founding partner of Operation Creative. “PIPCU's IWL is the first of its kind and is a great tool for businesses to protect their brand reputation by ensuring their adverts don't appear on pirate sites,” said Kieron Sharp, director general at FACT. “Consumers need to be aware that not only are the criminals behind these websites making substantial amounts of money from adverts, but simply visiting the sites can put the public at risk of malware, viruses and click-through scams.”


text:
Within the framework of the institutional visit that the Government of the Principality of Asturias made to Mexico and Colombia between 23rd and 28th April 2017, a packed schedule of meetings and promotional activities was organised to share the opportunities that Asturias has to offer companies in both countries. The most notable act took place in Mexico D.F. on Thursday, 27th April, in Hotel Presidente Intercontinental Polanco; a corporate forum entitled “Bilateral relationship between Mexico-Asturias: Success stories and investment opportunities”.
The conference, which aimed to show potential investors the capacities of Asturias, was opened by Mr Manuel Llaca, Vice-President of the COMCE Mexico-Spain Corporate Committee, Mr Jorge A. Mariné Brandi, the Economic and Commercial Adviser of the Economic and Commercial Office at Mexico D.F., Mr Aurelio González, Representative of the Asturian Centre of Mexico D.F. and Mr Francisco Blanco Ángel, Employment, Industry and Tourism Regional Minister of the Principality of Asturias. The attendees included over 80 representatives from Mexican companies and institutions from the corporate sphere, as well as numerous representatives from Asturian companies and members of the institutional delegation.
Existing support platforms that promote the expansion of Mexican companies were reviewed at the forum, and a round table event was held, with participation from Asturian companies from the Metal & Energy, Advanced Manufacturing – Industry 4.0 – and Agro-food sectors, among which were Asturian-founded companies based in Mexico. For example, Mr José Miguel Fernández, the Administrator of Aguas de Fuensanta – a company recently acquired by Mexican investors – explained their project, consisting in a partnership between two entrepreneurs to export gourmet products produced in Asturias to the Mexican market. In turn, the Asturias for Foodies consortium, formed by Sidra Trabanco, Conservas Agromar and Queso Rebollín, represented by Mrs Begoña Medio, reiterated the possibilities that were available, faced with the challenge of introducing their products into the Mexican market. Mrs María Cardín Blanco, the Marketing Director of the El Gaitero Group, which has been exporting to Mexico for the past 127 years, accounted its corporate history, from the very outset linked to Mexico, and also explained its new challenges, which entail exposing Mexican consumers to its most innovative products. The Regional Director for Europe and Latin America of Thyssenkrupp Airport Systems, Mr Francisco Arqueros, showed attendees the advantages of Asturias as an investment destination, ensuring quality products within the framework of a competitive region with highly qualified human resources. In turn, Mr Joaquín García Rico, the CEO of the TSK Group, also shared his positive vision as an Asturian engineering company, established in Mexico for the past 6 years and which operates in the energy sector. He also described the projects that are currently being developed and gave a positive outlook on future contracts in the country. In the name of the ITMA+Prodintec Alliance, its CEO Mr Iñigo Felgueroso took the floor to frame Asturias as an investment destination. He spoke of the capacities of both Technology Centres, principally related to additive manufacturing, and the Steel Hub (pilot plants for the simulation of the entire steel making process). Mr Pablo Martín Rodríguez, President of the Izertis Group, highlighted the importance of bilateral relationships between the Mexican and Asturian markets, and described the qualities that make Asturias an attractive region for corporate investment. Meanwhile, Mr Álvaro Villanueva, the CEO of the Intermark Group, described the advantage that the University of Oviedo offers to companies established in Asturias, with the supply of a large number of highly qualified professionals, as well as the existence of an enviable setting both for living and working.
The Forum ended with a speech by Mr Pedro Luís Fernández Pérez, President of the Asturias Federation of Employers (FADE), who presented Asturias as a great opportunity for Mexico, and who thanked all the entrepreneurs and Asturian-Mexican executives for their support for initiatives linked to the region.


text:
Ant Financial, better known as AliPay, said that it had successfully tested a new payment service on the blockchain. Processing of the first payment took three seconds, reports Cointelegraph.
It is noted that the project was developed as the first service for the implementation of cross-border payments on the blockchain using an electronic wallet between Hong Kong and the Philippines.
“Starting from Hong Kong, the AliPayHK service will extend to the rest of the world in the future,” commented Jack Ma, founder of the company.
He also noted that the implementation of the blockchain for the cross-border transfers was of most concern to him over the past six months.
Previously, Ant Financial has attracted $ 14 billion to develop blockchain-based solutions. The company noted that it would direct the attracted funds to such areas as blockchain, AI, security, Internet of things and so on.


text:
The crowds remained light at this week’s furniture show.
By Alan Wolf, YSN
Retail traffic at this week’s just-concluded High Point Fall Market remained light compared to pre-pandemic furniture shows, particularly among independent dealers.
According to sources contacted by industry news site Home News Now, independents and smaller retail accounts were more concerned about delivering goods on order than seeing forthcoming product at Market.
“They still don’t have product from April or June,” one rep told the website.
For those who did attend, the main topics of conversation with exhibitors were supply chain, sourcing and availability. “Now with all the problems in Asia, it is about who can deliver,” Jim LaBarge, CEO of luxury case goods and upholstery resource Marge Carson, told Home News Now.
Added Steve York, president of case goods resource FD Home, “The number one question we get is, ‘What do you have in stock?’”
As for the retailers themselves, those on hand reported sticker shock and ongoing concern over the broken supply chain, Home News Now said. But dealers were also inspired by the new introductions, despite what could be a long wait to receive them.
For BrandSource member Oscar Miskelly of Miskelly Furniture, a highlight was Ashley’s new Restoration Hardware-inspired Millennum collection, which he called “Probably the best thing I’ve seen in 10 years up here … just a fabulous look. We’re probably going to do a 10,000-square-foot display of it.”
Miskelly’s brother Tommy was equally enamored by Millennum, and pointed to Miranda Kerr Home’s Tranquility collection as another standout. “I just thought they had some really fresh-looking new pieces that you don’t see everywhere, that’s affordable,” he told the news site.
Hat tip to Home News Now.


text:
Starbucks Will Close Up to 400 Stores in the Next 18 Months and Focus on To-Go Services
The coffee chain is putting more focus on takeout-only locations
Starbucks is making some major changes to its cafes over the next 18 months.
The coffee company is planning to close up to 400 stores and is shifting its focus to add locations that exclusively offer pick-up and to-go services, according to a recent SEC filing obtained by CNN. The chain says it was already planning this shift prior to the COVID-19 crisis.
Before the coronavirus pandemic took hold in the United States, Starbucks reported that over 80% of its business was from on-the-go purchases. "Covid-19 has actually allowed us to accelerate the plans we already had on the books," a Starbucks representative told CNN.
The new takeout-only stores will better serve busy customers who prefer to get their coffee on-the-go while keeping traditional Starbucks cafes less crowded. This strategy is fashioned to "enhance the customer experience, expand our retail presence and enable profitable growth for the future," according to Starbucks.
Social distancing measures have taken a toll on the company's revenue as many locations shifted to drive-thru only models in mid-March, while a majority of locations closed indefinitely. It is estimated that Starbucks has lost about $3.2 billion in revenue this fiscal quarter.
Starbucks is recovering, though, having reopened 95% of stores to date as regions across the U.S begin to open up. The company is keeping a positive outlook on recovering financially from this crisis.
"As our business recovery continues, we are now laying the foundation for a more transformational phase—'restore and build resilience'—enabling us to accelerate the transformation of our business in ways that elevate the customer and partner experience and drive long-term growth," CEO Kevin Johnson and CFO Pat Grismer wrote in a letter to stakeholders in the filing. “With each passing week, we are seeing clear evidence of business recovery, with sequential improvements in comparable-store sales performance."


text:
Then her youngest got diaper rash, and the doctor told Hoops it was actually a chemical burn from disposable diapers. “She’s the one who got me started on it all,” Hoops says. “Her skin was so sensitive, she couldn’t wear disposable diapers. I knew as soon as I put a diaper on her she would cry.”
That is when Hoops made the decision to start West Side Green Baby in May 2012.
West Side Green Baby is a cloth diaper service Hoops and her husband started with four industrial washers and dryers in their converted LaGrange garage. The business provides weekly door-to-door drop off and pick up of 80 pocket diapers — cloth diapers that look just like disposables with a pocket in the back for included absorbent inserts — diaper pail liners and travel bags. Customers simply put the dirty diapers in the bag; WSGB hauls them away for cleaning and drops off clean diapers. Customers can also choose an unlimited diaper package, which Hoops says works well for families with multiple kids in diapers.
Within six months business was booming and the garage setup wasn’t enough. So Hoops began outsourcing to an eco-friendly laundry service. She estimates after just one year in business, WSGB has kept 20,000 disposable diapers out of landfills.
WSGB diapers are not the cloth diapers of the 1970s. They are highly absorbent, do not require rubber over-pants to prevent leakages and use snaps instead of pins. “I constantly have to explain to potential customers they are no harder than using disposable diapers,” says Hoops. “They are really hung up on the idea, and then they are pleasantly surprised.”
The environmental and health advantages to using cloth diapers further support Hoops’ argument. Disposable diapers are the third-largest contributor to landfills, according to smallfootprintfamily.com, and the chemicals can cause skin irritations.
“Incidents of doctors’ visits for diaper rash were only 7 percent before the widespread use of disposables in 1991,” explains Hoops. “After that, the number rose to 78 percent and has stayed there.” Hoops claims a 98 percent cure rate of skin issues when people switch to cloth diapers.
While the investment in cloth diapers can be expensive in the beginning, WSGB keeps the service affordable — about $25 a week — and doesn’t require long-term contracts. “Week to week, the cost is about the same,” she says. “The big savings comes in kids potty training a lot sooner.”
Babies in cloth diapers typically potty train a year earlier than kids in disposables, says Hoops, mostly because they can feel the moisture in cloth, which prompts them to learn bladder and bowel control much earlier than in disposables, where the moisture is wicked away. “I have customers who seek out the diaper service just for potty training,” says Hoops.
West Side Green Baby serves western Cuyahoga, Lorain, Erie and Huron counties. Next year Hoops plans to franchise the business in Toledo and Cleveland’s East Side. She continues to work as a labor and delivery nurse one or two days a week.


text:
Enviropig is the trademark for a genetically modified line of Yorkshire pigs, with
the capability to ... When cereal grains are consumed, the phytase mixes with
feed in the pig's mouth, and once...
Nov 3, 2015 ... The Current: GMO pigs' cautionary tale of genetically modified food ... Two kinds
of genetically modified pigs are on their way to becoming pork ...
Apr 3, 2012 ... Genetically modified pigs that excrete less waste may be euthanized before they
could be slaughtered for human consumption, according to a ...
Apr 5, 2010 ... generic pig livestock antibiotics feed pork farm ... has approved for limited
production a genetically engineered, environmentally friendly pig.
Jun 30, 2015 ... Researchers hope the genetically engineered animals will speed past ... pig
sperm to farmers in China, where demand for pork is on the rise.
Jul 2, 2015 ... Two different pork projects point to two different answers to the question. ... But
have scientists and other GMO advocates hit on a way to ...
Jul 19, 2016 ... In January, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration issued a final guidance for
industry on the regulation of genetically engineered (GE) ...
There is no genetically modified pork approved for sale in Canada, so far, but
most of the pork sold in large grocery stores is produced on factory farms that
As a result of splicing in genes from a bacteria and a mouse, the genetically
engineered pig is able to digest phytase, the indigestible form of phosphorus
Jan 24, 2011 ... Genetically engineered pork may one day become a part of your local grocer's
food list. But who's to decide whether or not this product should ...


text:
Digitalising Cement Sales in Ethiopia
Dumbulo Shopping Solutions, an Ethiopian e-commerce trading company, has started selling cement online to customers in and around Addis Ababa through its online shopping platform, www.dumbulo.com.
Gemechu Waktolla, a co-founder of Dumbulo Shopping Solutions, revealed that the company was providing a platform through which clients could shop for cement online. According to the Reporter - a local Ethiopian newspaper - Gemechu Waktolla said his company targets end users who face difficulties in purchasing cement from the local market.
Dumbulo Shopping Solutions has begun working not only with cement manufacturers, but also with noteworthy distributors approved by the Federal government. Through the agreements it is establishing with cement manufacturers and distributors, the e-commerce business aims to make cement available throughout Addis Ababa. Dumbulo Shopping Solutions has already established a deal with National Cement, one of the leading cement manufacturers that has a running distribution center in Addis Ababa. The Company is also considering partnerships with four major cement distributors and the Chemical and Construction Inputs Development Institute regarding ways to transform the traditionally unpredictable cement market.
Whilst big investment undertakings and government infrastructure projects are able to purchase cement directly from the manufacturing plants, Gemechu points out that end users such as home builders are suffering. The online shopping platform provided by Dumbulo Shopping Solutions addresses this problem.
Home builders can now login to www.dumbulo.com and purchase cement. The website has a variety of payment methods, including CBE Birr, M-Birr, Hello Cash, and Amolle Wallet.
An added value is that clients purchasing cement on the website can arrange for delivery to their building sites. Home builders can buy the cement online at much lower costs than those available to them in local markets, according to Gemechu. Ministry of Trade and Industry has set a price cap of 360 birrs for a quintal of cement limit. However, clients can purchase a quintal of cement online at www.dumbulo.com for 345 birrs. The entire purpose of e-commerce is for everyone to benefit from lower prices.
By making cement sales available online, Dumbulo Shopping Solutions is undoubtedly revolutionising the cement market. Home builders do not need to roam the city searching for cement, and neither do they have to spend precious time negotiating with merchants.
According to Gemechu, "Home builders should not wonder in the city looking for cement and hassle with brokers. A person should be able to access information about cement while he is at home or in his office. Our purpose is to fill the information gap and stabilize the cement market. Home builders can buy cement online with the price set by the government or less than that."
Dumbulo Shopping Solutions was built by four IT specialists and management consultants three years ago. Since then, consumable products have been made available for purchase on the online trading platform. The company has entered into agreement with nearby local vendors to supply items which are made available for sale on the online platform. There are also plans to sell other construction materials such as reinforcement bars, paints, and ceramics. To facilitate its e-commerce operations, the company established a delivery service provider, Sheger EX, which delivers products bought from www.dumbulo.com.
Photo: Bags of cement and a safety helmet (Lucadp / Dreamstime)


text:
German PV materials manufacturer Heraeus has added an additional product to a patent infringement lawsuit it filed against Taiwan’s Giga Solar Materials in June.
Heraeus has added its No. 610 Front Side Silver Paste product to the complaint which originally included various other front-side metallisation pastes.
The manufacturer is seeking undisclosed damages for the alleged infringement and treble damages if it is proved to be wilful, including a permanent injunction to prevent Giga Solar manufacturing, using, offering or selling the products again.
Andreas Liebheit, head of Heraeus Photovoltaics’ global business unit, warned that industry suppliers could not continue to justify investments into products if intellectual property is infringed.
“Fair competition encourages the development and improvement of technology which benefits the entire industry. It is important for us and the industry to challenge potential violators who can potential[ly] hinder the technological advancement of the PV industry.
“If suppliers are not able to gain full economic benefit from investments in technology and intellectual property, then why should anyone invest? We will defend all our technology for the long term benefit of the industry,” he added.
Heraeus strengthened its IP patent portfolio earlier this week with the purchase of a number of patents from Murata Manufacturing regarding lead-free solar cell pastes.


text:
The disposable masks market is likely to record a CAGR of 7.4% between 2023 and 2033. The market is anticipated to cross a market share of US$ 10.8 billion by 2033 while it is valued at US$ 5.3 billion in 2023.
The global pandemic and rising pollution levels are spreading awareness amongst people to adopt disposable masks as they are convenient and effective in preventing the spread of infection.
Advanced mask dispensing machines are fueling the demand for disposable masks. The demand for disposable items, such as clinical and surgical masks, is being driven by the growing hospital industry.
Advanced masks that use many layers and diverse materials are becoming more widely available in the market. The need for disposable masks is also being fueled by the growing healthcare emergency equipment. Due to the pandemic, the disposable mask market is now growing and is expected to continue doing so through the end of 2033. The increased Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) are also pushing end users to adopt safety precautions.
Request for In-depth Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-11135
The highly effective masks with 80-90% prevention from the three-layered non-woven fabric are gaining traction in the market. Besides, the demand for disposable masks for personal usage is increasing as people become more conscious of airborne illnesses and contamination.
The United States market leads the market in terms of market share and CAGR. The market is anticipated to cross a value of US$ 2.1 billion by 2033. The regional market is expected to record a CAGR of 10.4% between 2023 and 2033.
The disposable masks market in China holds a significant market. It thrives at a steady CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period. The market is likely to reach a value of US$ 1.2 billion by 2033.
Surgical mask is likely to thrive in the product type category due to the significant usage and necessity. It is expected to thrive at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period.
The personal application segment tops the application tally with a CAGR of 8.4% between 2023 and 2033. The growth is attributed to rising pollution, infection, as well as the spreading of viruses.
The mask vendors focus on adding protective layers to the mask while also limiting their price. The personal use of masks during the surging virus spread has increased tremendously. Companies are also engaged in merger acquisition and partnership with other companies to increase the supply chain and distribution channel. The key players in the market include Kimberly-Clark Corporation, 3M Company, Besco Medical Limited, Honeywell International Inc., and Valmy SAS.
Ask to Analyst @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-question/rep-gb-11135
Kimberly-Clark Corporation introduced its sterile masks with a low-linting polyethylene film outer layer that delivers protection from contamination with excellent bacterial and practice filtration.
In 2022, Besco Medical Limited launched quality-based masks with an elastic ear loop. These masks involve surgical masks, medical masks, disposable surgical masks, and disposable medical masks.


text:
It appears that Sam Mendes, the Academy Award-winning director of American Beauty, Road to Perdition, Revolutionary Road and Away We Go, is filming a commercial this week for Apple’s new iPhone which will be announced later this month. According to Engadget, the series of commercials are being referred to internally as the Mammoth / N90.
A trusted source has confirmed to us that the ads will feature at least one spot where a mother and daughter are having a video chat conversation using the new front-facing camera that’s been spied on the face of that iPhone floating around Vietnam and Northern California.
Some tweets on Twitter revealed have revealed at least one actress who is up for a role in the “f***ing apple commercial” in New York, and another man in California auditioning for a role. The commercial will likely premiere after Steve Jobs announces the new iPhone during Apple’s WWDC keynote on June 7th 2010.
But this isn’t the first time that Apple has employed a big director for their television commercials… The Northern California-based computer company has a long history of hiring big name filmmaker for their television spots (chronicled in brief after the jump).
It all really started with “1984”, a commercial directed by Ridley Scott which aired nationally during Super Bowl XVIII. You might remember it featured a woman wearing with a white tanktop with a Picasso-style picture of Apple’s Macintosh computer, running through an Orwellian world to throw a sledgehammer at a huge television with an image of “Big Brother” IBM, and famously concluding in voice over “On January 24th, Apple Computer will introduce Macintosh. And you’ll see why 1984 won’t be like ‘1984’.”
Academy Award-winning Documentarian Errol Morris directed the famous “Switch” campaign in 2002, which featured “real people” who had “switched”.
And most recently, Apple fanatic David Fincher directed the iPhone 3Gs comemrcial which was released last year.Cool Posts From Around the Web:


text:
As we all remember, in February, the electric vehicle maker reported it had invested $1.5 billion in Bitcoin and planned to accept the cryptocurrency in future as a payment. After that, the price of the largest cryptocurrency increased from just over $39,000 to $46,000. In April, it boosted to a lifetime high of nearly $65,000.
However, in late April that Tesla had sold 10% of its BTC holdings, reportedly to demonstrate the digital currency’s liquidity.
According to the latest news, the Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, has now announced on Twitter that Tesla has suspended buying using bitcoin amid concerns about the rapidly increasing use of fossil fuels used in mining the cryptocurrency. Unsurprisingly, this has prompted a huge sell-off in the crypto markets, with bitcoin falling from around $55,000 to $45,000. However, later it recovered to nearly $50,000.
Tesla and some other of Musk’s investments witnessed declines. Shares of Tesla have declined 15% so far this week, lowering Musk’s net worth by $20.5 billion to $145.5 billion as of market close on May 13. He remains the third-richest person on the planet, just slightly ahead of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
Elon Musk asked its followers if they wanted Tesla to accept Dogecoin
Meanwhile, a meme-based currency, Dogecoin, gained 10%. Musk also announced that Tesla was also potentially interested in accepting payments in cryptocurrencies with less than 1% of bitcoin’s energy footprint.
The billionaire has previously expressed his apparent affinity for the original joke coin turned top ten cryptocurrencies, dogecoin, declaring himself the Dogefather.
Dogecoin is certainly low-energy. So Tesla may turn to dogecoin as a treasury asset and functional currency to supplement its existing BTC holdings.
Remarkably, in the previous session, Elon Musk posted on his Twitter account, asking if people wanted Tesla to accept Dogecoin.
Remarkably, the overwhelming answer from his followers was yes. Therefore, it won’t be a surprise at all if we’ll see Tesla turning to dogecoin.


text:
Edwin Watts in moving to close its St. Louis store as part of the chain's post-bankruptcy reorganization. Early plans call for EW to retain 49 of its 91 stores.
In December, a bankruptcy judge approved the sale of EW to Worldwide Golf Shops and Hilco Merchant Resources LLC.
EW entered St. Louis in summer 2011, occupying the site of a shuttered Golf Discount store. EW never really gained traction locally. Early indications of problems: With little fanfare, EW scheduled its grand opening the same weekend as a major demo event by a competitor.
Anyone else have an EW store that's closing?


text:
Adobe will make Photoshop free on the web and is testing the “Freemium” plan
The years of jokes about free Photoshop being available on torrent sites (and the years of having to rely on Photopea to quickly edit photos) are about to come to an end.
Adobe plans to launch Photoshop free on the web for everyone, with just a free Adobe account as the only barrier to entry.
Just months after releasing a web-based version of Photoshop, Adobe is now testing a “freemium” Photoshop plan in Canada. During this trial, anyone who wants to edit a photo can do so as long as they have the free Adobe account.
So where does the “freemium” part come from?
As a first step, Adobe will make Photoshop free on the web for everyone to entice more people to use its software.
“We want to do [Photoshop] more accessible and easier for more people to try and experience the product,” said Maria Yap, vice president of digital imaging at Adobe.
Next, alongside Photoshop’s existing free core features, the company will introduce secure, paid content that will be exclusive to users with a paid subscription.
At this time, it’s unknown when the free Photoshop web app will launch worldwide. However, given how quickly Adobe has rolled out updates in recent years, we don’t expect to wait too long.
Until they release Photoshop free for the web, Adobe says they’re working on more features for the existing version, like mobile support for image review, dodge & burn tools, and image conversion. smart objects.


text:
On October 24th and 25th, the Barilla World Championship took place in Milan: an international culinary competition where 18 chefs under 35, from 17 different countries participated in the tournament, now at its 7th edition.
With the theme “Eat Positive”, the Championship offered a unique insight into the importance of pasta in a healthy diet, with live cooking demonstrations, tastings and conferences on the importance of beauty in food, wellness and sustainability, from the farm to the table.
The event was possible thanks to the ten outstanding partners and leaders in their categories including Zanussi Professional, which embodies a long Italian history of excellence and quality.
Zanussi Professional has contributed to Italian gastronomic development for over 100 years, providing restaurateurs with the best equipment to obtain excellent results. The Italian style that distinguishes the Zanussi brand is fundamental to be consider a partner of “Barilla Pasta World Championship 2018”.
The culinary theme of this year, ‘Eat positive as Italians do’ is a motto of Italian gastronomy and culture of this beautiful country, which Barilla, like Zanussi, promotes every day.


text:
- In NEWS ON ECONOMIC INDICATORS & TRENDS, Maersk turns a corner while UK inflation rises, traffic returns, suburbs see spending and cosmetics experience changes
- In TECH NEWS, Apple breaks $2tn, Huawei phones users could be about to suffer badly and BlackBerry announces a phone
- In RETAIL NEWS, we see retail winners and losers in the US and China
- In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Johnson & Johnson makses a big acquisition
- AND FINALLY I bring you instructions for “how to bag a husband” 1958 stylee and unnerving see-through toilets…
NEWS ON ECONOMIC INDICATORS & TRENDS
So Maersk turns a corner, UK inflation rises and cosmetics-buying patterns change…
*** It’s THURSDAY, which means that it’s ZOOM CALL time! I will be on Zoom THIS EVENING at 5pm and will be going through the week’s key business and financial markets themes and then you can ask me anything (details are HERE)! NB I AM GOING TO BE ON “HOLIDAY” NEXT WEEK, SO THERE WILL BE NO WATSON’S DAILY FROM MONDAY 24TH TO FRIDAY 28TH. ZOOMS WILL RESUME THE FOLLOWING WEEK! ***
Maersk sails back to strength as demand lifts (Daily Telegraph, Alan Tovey and Lizzy Burden) shows that the Danish shipping giant has actually lifted its profit forecasts for the full year on signs of a demand pick-up in global trade. They also benefited from lower fuel costs. * SO WHAT? * The company may have spoken too soon as Trump made rumblings yesterday about postponing trade talks with China, which could dent sentiment. Having said that the Shanghai Containerised Freight Rate (tracks shipping costs on one of the world’s major trade routes) and Baltic Dry Index (tracks rates for ships transporting dry bulk commodities) are rising from coronavirus lows. Given Maersk is a key player in transporting goods all around the world, it is seen as a key bellwether for the state of global trade.
In the UK, Pent-up demand for hair cuts, new clothes and travel lift inflation to 1pc (Daily Telegraph, Tim Wallace) highlights a surprise rise in inflation in July. Hairdressers upped their prices by 8% for men and children and 5.6% for women, ice cream prices shot up by 16.7%, petrol and diesel prices were also higher and even clothing saw stronger pricing as the much-predicted big discounting didn’t materialise. Other items that saw price rises were garden furniture, fridges, cleaning equipment, package holidays and takeaways. As a result of this rise, Savers lose interest as inflation beats account rates (Daily Telegraph, Marianna Hunt and Tim Wallace) shows that there’s only one easy-access savings account left now (offered by National Savings & Investment) that beats inflation with a 1.16% interest rate – meaning that many households will suffer a drop in the value of their cash in real terms. * SO WHAT? * The rise in inflation was a surprise given all the economic upheaval, but it is welcome nevertheless as rising inflation can be seen as a signal of a recovery. I suspect that V-shaped recovery fans will use this as proof of their belief. I am sceptical about a V-shaped recovery because there are so many uncertainties
HOWEVER, if the government extends furlough, I think that this scenario could have much more chance of coming to fruition. Extending furlough will avert a massive spike in unemployment that would be a body blow to any kind of confidence but the question is whether furlough will successfully plug the gap between pandemic-related business devastation and recovery or whether it will just be like rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.
In other glimpses of the current state of the economy, Rising traffic levels signal economy is speeding up (The Times, Gurpreet Narwan) highlights findings by Jefferies, the investment bank, that energy consumption is now at 97% of normal levels while traffic congestion was up from 87% to 90% in the last week. Jefferies publishes weekly reports that bring together a number of other “mini-indicators” and it concludes that the economy could actually grow by over 15% in Q3 after falling by over 20% in Q2. Suburbs lead London’s economic recovery while city centre struggles (The Guardian, Joanna Partridge) cites a report from the thinktank Centre for London and King’s College London which shows that the ‘burbs are actually leading an economic recovery as consumers stay and spend locally and office workers and tourists stay away from the city centre. Transaction data from Mastercard shows that consumer spending has shifted outwards from central London – which is not surprising given that 75% of London’s workers have yet to return to their desks, according to data from Morgan Stanley. Another interesting stat from Transport for London showed that journeys to London workplaces were about 50% of average levels in the first week of August but driving and cycling frequency had returned to normal.
Then in ‘Lipstick effect’ wears off as recession hits cosmetics (The Times, Ashley Armstrong) we see that lockdown has had a major effect on the $530bn cosmetics industry. The terms “lipstick effect” was coined in 2001 by the chairman of Esteé Lauder, Leonard Lauder, who said that lipstick sales were inversely correlated to the state of the economy as people bought lipstick as an affordable luxury to cheer themselves up in an uncertain world. Coronavirus has not only affected what products are sold (eyeliner and mascara have seen stronger sales as these are still areas you can see over a mask!) – it has affected how they are sold as many of the traditional department stores and boutiques closed overnight. * SO WHAT? * The cosmetics industry is just one more example of an industry that has had to make rapid changes to survive the current climate. I would imagine that the sudden change will have caught many off guard and so I would expect there to be more consolidation in the industry as smaller operators do what they can to survive and biggest operators look to enhance their existing offering and perhaps cut dead wood.
Apple breaches $2tn, Huawei users could suffer and Blackberry makes a comeback…
Lockdown sales surge helps Apple hit $2trn (The Times, Tom Knowles) shows that Apple has become America’s first company to get a $2tn valuation only two years after it breached the $1tn mark. It has benefited enormously under lockdown from sales of handsets, tablets and laptops as well as its services. There is a great graphic in How Apple compares (The Times) which shows you the company’s growth history and how $2tn compares to other things. For example, it is bigger than Saudi Aramco (market cap of $1.82tn), it is equivalent to almost 10% of America’s GDP and, on its own, it is worth almost 70% of the entire FTSE100 put together! Apple/Tesla: divide and conquer (Financial Times, Lex) takes a look at stellar valuations and Apple’s announcement of a stock split. Will other companies such as Facebook indulge in a bit of stock split action given the post-announcement share price performances of Apple and Tesla? If so, investors will be piling into other potential stock split candidates.
Sanctions are a Huawei hang-up for 4m (Daily Telegraph, Matthew Field) shows that up to four million UK customers could be saddled with increasingly useless Huawei mobile phones as the company looks like it will not be able to renew the temporary licence it has used up till now to get Android updates. Phones developed before May 2019 (including the P30 and Nova ranges) are still expected to get key security features but phones developed after that date (e.g. the P40 range) have been completely blocked from using Google’s apps when the US was put on a US blacklist. Huawei has about a 10% market share of UK smartphones. * SO WHAT? * This is another nightmare and another potential nail in the coffin for Huawei. It’s like ZTE all over again!
On a more positive note, BlackBerry brand to be revived by release of 5G model in 2021 (Daily Telegraph, James Cook) highlights the latest return of the BlackBerry phone brand as its “new” owner, OnwardMobility, said it would release a new 5G model probably in the first half of 2021. It hopes it will sell to government and enterprise customers rather than “normal people”. It will use an OnwardMobility design and be powered by Android. * SO WHAT? * Just what we all need! ANOTHER mobile phone brand! Still, it’s probably quite good for it to create a niche for itself. It’ll maybe even get a good margin out of it if it doesn’t have to sell to the masses!
We see how coronavirus has polarised winners and losers in the US and China…
Target sales jump as pandemic speeds e-commerce shift (Wall Street Journal, Sarah Nassauer and Suzanne Kapner) shows that the gap between retail’s winners and losers has been magnified by the coronavirus pandemic. Ones that had been allowed to stay open have generally done pretty well, whereas those who had to close did not. Yesterday, Target reported its strongest every quarterly results and DIY chain Lowe’s announced its strongest sales growth in decades! On the other hand, Kohl’s and TJ Maxx, who had to close temporarily, announced major sales declines. * SO WHAT? * I expect the strong to get stronger
and the weaker ones, if they can actually survive, will take some time to recover as they have a deeper hole to climb out of.
Premium retailers rise China’s recovery from Covid-19 crisis (Wall Street Journal, Trefor Moss) shows a different divide in China where the pandemic has led to an increasing contrast in performance between makers/purveyors of premium products (e.g. Monlcler and Lululemon Athletica) doing really well and those aiming at mass-market consumers struggling to return to growth. Luxury brands were probably given a little lift in China as affluent consumers’ movements were affected by travel restrictions. * SO WHAT? * More affluent Chinese have been much more able to take advantage of deals designed to encourage spending versus their less affluent counterparts who just want to cover the basics. I presume that this trend will continue for at least the time being until employment struggles back to normal levels.
Fontanella-Khan) highlights an all-cash deal that will broaden the world’s biggest healthcare company’s capabilities in autoimmune treatments. * SO WHAT? * This will give J&J’s drugmaking division Janssen Pharmaceutica access to Momenta’s promising product pipeline. The deal comes only days after Sanofi bought Principia and I suspect we will see more consolidation in a fragmented industry.
…in other news…
I thought I’d leave you today with life advice that our forebears were given in 129 ways to get a man according to 1958 advice – carry a hat box and sell fishing tackle (The Mirror, Jane Lavender). Gems such as “Look in the census reports for places with the most single men” and “Read the obituaries to find eligible widowers” sound somewhat psychotic IMO. Then there’s Japan: See-through public toilets open in Tokyo parks (SkyNews) which will no doubt make many people nervous! You’ll see why 😂! When you are in there you will be praying that there won’t be any power cuts…
Some of today’s market, commodity & currency moves (as at 0757hrs green is up, red is down). THIS IS INTENDED AS A ROUGH GUIDE ONLY!
|FTSE 100 *
|Dow Jones *
|S&P 500 *
|Oil (WTI) p/b
|Oil (Brent) p/b
|Gold Per t/oz
(markets with an * are at yesterday’s close, ** are at today’s close)


text:
The next C-Max will first go on sale in Europe but this version is also expected to be sold in North America for the first time. The test-mule captured in these spy images is using the current model’s bodyshell but according to the photographer its track is slightly wider and wheelbase slightly longer. The extra length suggests that Ford could have a new 7-seater version in development, most likely targeted for the U.S. market.
The computer generated rendering gives a preview as to what the final version could look like, revealing that designers will likely adopt the same styling as seen on the new global Ford Fiesta.
Based on Ford’s European Focus platform, the new C-Max will likely share most of its engines with the updated hatchback range. This means a series of engines ranging in displacement from 1.4L up to 2.0L. The potent 2.5L turbocharged engine from the Focus is unlikely to appear in the new C-Max.
New European models such as the Kuga crossover and new C-Max are expected to make their way to North America. CEO Alan Mulally and product development boss Derrick Kuzak have both hinted at bringing over Ford’s European lineup to the U.S. and such a move also ties in with the company’s latest global engineering strategy.


text:
SHAH ALAM – As of 1 July, all food premises in Selangor are forbidden to provide plastic drink to customers, says Hee Loy Sian.
The EXCO of Environment, Green Technology, Science, Technology and Innovation and Consumer Affairs
said the ban was approved by the State Executive Council (MMKN) on 11 June.
He said the owner of the premises are also banned from preparing plastic straws at the counter for free collection by customers.
“Plastic straws will only be provided upon request of the customer for each of the ordered drinks,” he said.
“Every Local Authority (PBT) will put this under the Terms of Business License Application when the entrepreneur submits a new application or renew their respective business licenses,” he said in a statement.
He said the policy was also in line with the ongoing Plastic-Free Campaign to reduce the use of single-use plastics such as plastic bags, polystyrene, plastic cover / coatings and disposable plastic materials.
“The main objective of this policy is to educate and raise the level of awareness of the population on the long-term impact of the use of plastic once in particular the plastic straws on health and the environment.
“In addition, the implementation of this policy is expected to assist the government in controlling the problem of increasing environmental pollution and promoting recycling efforts,” he said.
To ensure the smooth running of the policy, Loy Sian said the state government, through the Local Authority, will monitor its implementation from time to time.
At the same time, he said, food and beverage premises operators have been urged to provide cooperation and assistance in order to achieve the objective of reducing plastic consumption.
“The state government is very proud and thankful that there are many food, beverage or restaurant premises entrepreneurs who have taken the initiative and stepped ahead of the government,” he said.
“People are encouraged to give suggestions and opinions on the implementation of these campaigns and policies to government departments or agencies and may contact the EXCO office for that purpose,” he added.
“Every proposal or opinion will be taken into consideration and reviewed so that this government’s campaign or policy will be successful.”


text:
The arrival of commercially viable flying cars has been erroneously foretold countless times before over the course of the last century, but in recent years, with the popularization of electric vehicles, the idea that we will travel around like the Jetsons in the foreseeable future seems to be gaining traction again. Companies dedicated to providing such a product are now popping up, and other companies like China’s Xpeng are also looking allocating resources for this.
In a colorful and creative display of support, Hyundai has brought the spirit of Busan, South Korea, to the streets of New York City during…
Mercedes-Benz has revealed a fresh update to the E450 All-Terrain after the launch of the all-new E Class.
Volkswagen has announced that the iconic Golf GTI and Golf R models will bid farewell to the manual transmission after the 2024 model year.
Clearing the pervious Nürburgring EV record of the Tesla Model S Plaid by an astonishing 20 seconds, the Rimac Nevera is King of EVs.
The upcoming Pebble Beach Automotive Week will be marked by a series of debuts and exclusive showcases from Mercedes-Benz. At the forefront of this grand…


text:
Alibaba under the travel brand “ Ali travel ” today officially changed its name to “ flying pig ” the English name “ Fliggy”.
Then God cat, rookie, ants, free fish, horse, the Alibaba can not help but self ridicule: “ Ali zoo and grow up. ”
Allegedly, the flying pig is facing the young consumers' leisure brand, and for business travel service “ Ali business ” together, a business unit of Alibaba's travel.
Flying pig target users to grow up a new generation of the Internet, hoping to become the industry benchmark for young people on vacation, especially overseas travel services.
Vice president of Alibaba group, Li Shaohua, President of the pig also announced a set of platform for the first time the data: the number of users of the fly pig has more than 200 million, APP downloads more than 100 million, the average daily number of visits to 10 million.
Brand upgrade “ fly pig ” at the same time, Avenir Hotel, the future of the scenic area, the future of flying and other future series of business line sub brand will continue to use.
October 2014, the cause of the Alibaba to upgrade to the air travel business group, Taobao travel split and upgraded to a brand new “ Ali travel · go ah ”. Ali's important business groups have their own names, such as Tmall, rookie and other brands. In the past two years, more and more attention to the Tourism Forum Ali group, so the trip was renamed Ali Ali fly is not surprising.
Follow us：Please take a look at our micro-public：Scan QR code，The public,：ilvruan
Copyright notice：This article copyright belongs to the original author all，Copyright belongs to the original author all，Welcome to share this article，Reprinted please keep source!


text:
The Streit's factory building is the oldest in the nation where the unleavened flatbread that's essential for Jewish holidays is still churned out. About 2.5 million pounds of matzos were baked for April's Passover holiday, and distributed worldwide.
A Southern California doughnut shop has come up with yet another guilty pleasure gone viral: a...
Mondelez International on Monday announced the acquisition of Enjoy Life Foods, a private U.S....
Pepperidge Farm is recalling about 46,000 packages of bagels because they may contain peanuts or almonds that could set off a serious allergic reaction. The recall includes plain, everything and cinnamon raisin bagels. Mini bagels are also being recalled.
Bimbo Bakeries USA is voluntarily recalling Thomas', Sara Lee and Jewel Bagels because they may contain undeclared peanuts and almonds. All recalled products are being removed from store shelves.
Flowers Foods is voluntarily recalling Market Basket Fork Split 6 count Original English Muffins because they contain undeclared milk. People who have allergies to dairy products run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. No illnesses have been reported to date.
The Bakery Division produces, markets and distributes mainly snack-cakes in Canada, which are sold almost exclusively in the retail market. It is the largest manufacturer of snack-cakes in Canada and also sells, on a small scale, in the U.S.
Going against the gluten-free fad, Portland, Ore.-based Dave's Killer Bread has gained legions of fans for its seeded, nutritious sandwich loaves. Now it has plans to expand to every single state in the U.S. by the end of 2015.
The union that represents workers at a Pillsbury plant set for closure expects to meet next month with General Mills officials to discuss the southern Indiana plant's future. General Mills announced last week that it plans to close its refrigerated goods plant in New Albany by mid-2016, but said its decision is subject to negotiation with union officials.
Tarrier Foods is recalling more than 300 cases of its Chopped Twix candy topping because the Ohio company says the ingredient statement on the packaging didn't show that it may contain peanuts and eggs.
Mondelez International says the facility will have capacity to produce 90,000 tons per year. The company said its plant in the Arab Gulf island-nation will produce brands such as Oreo, Ritz and TUC in the initial phase, which will create 300 jobs. Full commercial production is scheduled to start early next year.
The gluten-free market is cementing its staying power as more than a mere dietary fad and continues to make national headlines, including a recent announcement by popular foodservice chain Pizza Hut that it will begin offering gluten-free pizza.
The Kellogg Company has acquired a majority stake in the Egyptian biscuit maker Bisco Misr. The transaction of Bisco Misr, which is the number one packaged biscuits company in Egypt, allows Kellogg to advance its global snacks business in growing emerging markets.
General Mills continues its layoffs with another plant closure, this time one of its Pillsbury facilities. The closure comes at a time where some of the food and beverage industry's most well-known companies are laying off workers, moving locations and shuttering entire facilities.
Dunkin' Donuts said Wednesday it struck a deal to open more than 1,400 locations in China over the next 20 years. Dunkin' Donuts ended the most recent quarter with about 3,200 international locations. In the U.S., it had about 8,000 locations, giving it more than 11,100 locations worldwide.
C.F. Sauer is one of more than 200 companies that have participated in the Virginia Economic Development Partnership's Virginia Leaders in Export Trade program, which teaches state businesses how to export their products and services overseas through technical training, market research and trade missions.
A Spanish company has combined technology with cuisine to develop the 'Foodini', a 3D printer designed to print the perfect cookie for Santa. Ben Gruber reports.
Rising consumption of processed and packaged food coupled with increasing inclination towards all natural ingredients to drive the U.S. food additives market in the coming years.
Canada Bread Co. has agreed to pay $120 million in cash to buy Saputo Inc.'s bakery division, which makes Joe Louis and May West snack cakes. Montreal-based Saputo is primarily a cheese and dairy company, with operations throughout Canada, the United States and outside of North America.
The expansion, which is scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2015, will double the existing Oven Works manufacturing facility to 38,000 square feet. The expanded facility will also include a 480 square foot, environmentally controlled paint booth.
Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz says that the company's upcoming delivery service will be profitable because 'people will pay an additional surcharge for delivery.'
The city of Waterloo, Iowa is considering buying the idle former Hostess plant downtown to encourage development. The Council will vote on a plan to spend $400,000 on the building that used to serve as a Wonder Bread bakery and up to $15,000 on closing costs.
Hosting a party this holiday season? Looka Patisserie, a small maker of desserts, is trying to tempt you to visit Walmart to pick up its treats. Looka Patisserie's President and CEO Marta Spasic and CEO Frank Spasic talk to Bloomberg's Julie Hyman.
This year, Bays English Muffins celebrates eighty years of baking the world's best English muffins. It all began in 1934 when George Bay opened a bakery in Chicago's Loop selling English muffins with a recipe his English grandmother brought to the U.S. in the 1800's.
Every food has its day, and today is National Pastry Day. ABC's Nikki Battiste heads into the kitchen to learn the art of the strudel.
Limited-time flavors are a proven way to attract customers throughout the year. But flavors like candy cane and gingerbread are particularly popular because of the power scents and flavors have to evoke time spent with loved ones.
Aimed at manufacturers working in range of sectors including confectionery, bakery and dairy, Cargill's webinar helped identify how the top food trends for 2015 will translate into applications for the cocoa and chocolate industry.
From new marijuana strains for the holidays to gift sets and pot-and-pumpkin pies, the burgeoning marijuana industry in Colorado is scrambling to get a piece of the holiday shopping dollar. Here's a look at how the new recreational marijuana industry is trying to attract holiday shoppers.
- Page 1


text:
The apes of the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) will soon be seen in cinematic format with cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase planning a three-part animated film featuring the non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
According to reports, Coinbase Entertainment, the new media arm of Coinbase, will be working on the project.
All about the trilogy featuring the Bored Ape Yacht Club community
Holders of BAYC tokens can be part of it
Coinbase announced the development in a tweet posted on April 12.
“We’re creating an interactive three-part film featuring @BoredApeYC & @apecoin communities,” the tweet read. It also contained an invite to people to join the film project at the official site, degentrilogy.com.
Here’s how you can help us make this movie:
💡 Get @CoinbaseWallet
🎥 Submit your Bored Ape
🎬 Hide an easter egg
— Coinbase (@coinbase) April 11, 2022
Coinbase followed it up with a new tweet in which it listed out three steps through which those holding BAYC NFTs can help make The Degen Trilogy.
Mutant Ape Yacht Club (MAYC) is next
Responding to the announcement, BAYC’s official Twitter handle said that the second film will feature the MAYC NFTs.
“We’re stoked that Coinbase is making a film series featuring the BAYC community. Bored Ape NFT holders, submit your ape for casting, details below. Mutants, don’t worry – this is the first film in a trilogy, and you’ll be getting your own casting call for part two,” read the tweet posted by BAYC.
We’re stoked that Coinbase is making a film series featuring the BAYC community. Bored Ape NFT holders, submit your ape for casting, details below.👇 Mutants, don’t worry – this is the first film in a trilogy, and you’ll be getting your own casting call for part two. https://t.co/lhsbg4AnuZ
— Bored Ape Yacht Club (@BoredApeYC) April 11, 2022
MAYC is a separate project from BAYC creators Yuga Labs and also enjoys high demand among collectors.
The first film
The first instalment of the film trilogy, titled The Degen Trilogy, will premiere in June 2022 at NFT.NYC. It will feature select BAYC NFT characters that are being crowdsourced from the BAYC community.
Coinbase recently brought William Swann as its entertainment and culture marketing director for the media arm.
“You can think of this as a love letter to the NFT tech that has provided so much creative liberation for artists,” Swann told CoinDesk in an interview. “We really look to [Bored Apes] as sort of our North Star in the NFT space. They’ve created such a massive and engaging community.”
According to CoinDesk, the films will be viewable to users who create a Coinbase wallet.
The latest announcement is another high point in the life of the BAYC project. It follows the airdrop of ApeCoin in March and the acquisition of rival CryptoPunks by Yuga Labs.
Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy Bored Ape Yacht Club; Coinbase/@coinbase/Twitter


text:
Ofcom: UK lags on fast broadband but loves to shop
Only 4% of homes in the UK are taking advantage of superfast broadband, according to a report from Ofcom.
Despite this, UK surfers remain very connected, shopping more online than any of their European counterparts.
Britons also get a good deal on their net and phone services, with only France offering cheaper prices, according to Ofcom.
But the UK remains in danger of falling behind when it comes to next-generation mobile services.
Ofcom's sixth international communications report compared the UK with nations around Europe and the world.
"Across the globe people are embracing e-commerce and social media with enthusiasm," said Ofcom chief executive Ed Richards.
"Our research shows that the UK communications market is performing well with prices, the range of services and innovation standing up well against international benchmarks."
It found that superfast services - defined by the regulator of speeds above 24Mbps (megabits per second) - remain more popular outside Europe.
In Japan 40% of homes take advantage of such services, and in the US it is around 10%.
But this drops dramatically in Europe. The UK is doing better than Germany, Spain and Italy which have only 3%, 2.2% and 1.5% respectively.
UK surfers are also keen online shoppers, according to the report - 89% claimed to have visited online shops, with 79% making online purchases during 2010.
UK householders are getting a good deal on net services, the research found. A typical basket of communication services - fixed-line phone, mobile, broadband and pay TV - can cost from £114 a month, second only to France at £79.
The report found that social networking was popular around the globe, with three-quarters of those surveyed visiting a site such as Facebook, the majority of these on a daily basis.
It is most popular in Italy, with 91% using social networking sites compared with 79% in the UK.
The UK does well on net TV, thanks largely to the availability of services such as the BBC's iPlayer. More than a quarter of Britons watch TV online every week, higher than any of the other countries surveyed.
Smartphone growth continues apace with ownership nearly doubling in the UK between February 2010 and August 2011 and take-up higher than in any other European country.
UK citizens are also more likely to access news content and social networking sites on their mobiles than any other nation.
Where the UK is in danger of slipping is with the availability of next-generation mobile services which will make mobile surfing much faster.
Rows among mobile operators mean the auction of the airways to facilitate such services is unlikely to happen until the second half of 2012, with services not available until the following year, Ofcom revealed.
Some European countries have already held their 4G spectrum auctions.
"There are issues which we will monitor carefully, such as the future rollout of 4G mobile services," said Mr Richards.


text:
Topic: Subscription Service
Amazon is testing a book subscription box for young readers.
Boxed has rolled out its first subscription model for loyal customers, and it will cost $49 a year, half of what Amazon charges for its Prime service.
As one of the first megaretailers to jump into the subscription channel, Target is setting the bar for others to follow suit.
Shoppers are rejecting a "one size" approach to retail, says Tom Krackeler of Zuora, who discusses retail's seismic shift to a subscription economy.
The Vitamin Shoppe has teamed up with OrderGroove to launch a subscription renewal program for its customers at POS.
An interview with Magento's Bob Moore reveals that B2B could learn a lot about subscriptions from B2C.
In the age of convenience, subscription retail models are on the rise. And the economy is quickly moving from a product-focused to a service-focused model.


text:
Qantm College, London, has announced that it will be holding an open day on May 25 in order to give potential students the chance to take a look around and talk with staff.
The courses on show will be 3D Animation, Graphic Design, Games Design & Programming, Web Development and Game Audio - all beginning September 2008.
In addition the college will be running two free workshops in the build-up to the open day, one titled "3D Maya Lighting" and another one called "Wordpress: Building Themes".
Qantm's international and domestic marketing manager, Nic Oliver, was enthusiastic about the response received so far.
"In the short time we've been in the UK we've discovered a real hunger for our courses from a nation bursting with creativity," he said. "So much so that we're already looking to expand in order to cope with demand."
More information on Qantm and the open day is available on the company's website.


text:
Five Scottish brewers cheer £200,000 craft beer listing with Asda
Aberdeen beer firm Six Degrees North, Glasgow-based West, Alexandria’s Loch Lomond Brewing, Tempest of Galashiels and Stewart Brewing in Loanhead are toasting the stocking of their new ranges in 53 Asda stores.
The new deals mean that Asda stores across Scotland will now stock over 80 Scottish beers, as the supermarket claims customers are looking for "more premium drinking experiences from local brands".
Craig Brown, retail sales director at the Craft Beer Clan of Scotland, said: “The Craft Beer Clan works hard to promote Scottish craft beer at home and abroad, and it's fantastic we’ve been able to work with a major retailer such as Asda.
“The craft brewing sector is renowned for its collaborations, so to be able to bring so many new brand listings to the supermarket stores across Scotland has been a great opportunity as we continue to build on Scotland's reputation as a world-class producer of drink.”
Heather Turnbull, Asda’s regional buying manager for Scotland, said: “The craft beer culture continues to grow, and it’s clear customers are trading up to more premium beers, particularly ones which come from local brands.
“The new lines we have launched are all premium quality and will give customers a more local choice, with a variety of flavours to suit every palate and occasion.”


text:
Chinese computer maker Lenovo looks set to axe 200 jobs at the firm’s headquarters in Beijing. According to Reuters, which quoted state reports in China on Wednesday, the vendor has cited tough economic conditions for the decision to slash jobs. Caijing magazine, which cited anonymous company sources, reported that only about …
This saddens me...
Lenovo's brilliant ThinkPad system is about all that keeps me from defecting to Mac. It's a pity that people have become so focused on bottom-dollar cost that a company can't be assured success by focusing on superior engineering.
- 'Windows 9' LEAK: Microsoft's playing catchup with Linux
- Infosec geniuses hack a Canon PRINTER and install DOOM
- Boffins say they've got Lithium batteries the wrong way around
- Game Theory Half a BILLION in the making: Bungie's Destiny reviewed
- Phones 4u slips into administration after EE cuts ties with Brit mobe retailer


text:
The Patlock is a revolutionary French Door security product Spares4Repairs have been behind from the start, eventually becoming the main trade distributor earlier in 2017.
Mick Foster, the Spares4Repairs company chairman was pleased to go down to the MLA Expo 2017 with Patlock Ltd to help promote the Patlock.
The MLA Expo is Europes Largest Locksmith & Security Exhibition Trade Show, taking place 6th-8th October 2017 at The International Centre in Telford. If you happen to be attending, do stop by the Patlock stand and say hello. We'd love to give you a demonstration and educate you on the benefits of why a Patlock is both a great french door security product for yourself and for you're customers.
If you're already sold on the security benefits a Patlock offers, then you can purchase online now for next working day delivery.