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2019 Fiat 500 Abarth Driven
The reborn, retro-chic, Fiat 500 first graced North American shores back in 2011 and now, eight years down the line, we got behind the wheel of the peppy Abarth version to get one final sting from the scorpion as the entire 500 range is being discontinued by Fiat-Chrysler. Prepare for some top-down driving as we assess whether we’ll miss the 500 for what it is or for its vibe akin to an endless summer holiday in the rolling hills of Tuscany.
The Fiat 500 L is classified as a Compact MPV – Minivan, as we know the term here in the United States – but it’s really more of a compact SUV or large hatchback. It’s been on the global market since 2012, but Fiat didn’t bring it to the states until the 2014 model year. It’s been on the market ever since, and was updated in 2018, but the truth of the matter is that the 500 L is still nearly eight years old. With this in mind, we’re kind of curious if the city car on steroids – remember, it’s based on the 500 city car – is still a viable choice in today’s market.
So, we spoke with our press fleet coordinator and managed to get our hands on a 2019 Fiat 500 L. A couple of weeks later, a 2019 Fiat 500 L Trekking showed up at Top Speed headquarters. This trim level sits above the entry-level Pop trim, but below the upper-class Urbana and Lounge trim levels with a starting price of $23,575. It is certainly positioned right in the middle of the affordable price bracket, but how does it drive? Is the aging 500 L comfortable and up to par with the competition? Does it provide the same thrills and entertaining experience as the smaller 500 that it’s based on? Well, after spending a week with the 2019 Fiat 500 L, we have answers to these questions and more – this is our story.
A New EV-Only Fiat 500 Is on the Way, But What Will It Look Like?
Fiat has been selling the current 500 city runabout for over ten years, mostly unchanged, and it will have to replace it with an all-new model fairly soon. Back in 2007, when it was first revealed, it was a response to the success that BMW was having with the MINI Cooper and VW with its revived Beetle, both of which were unashamedly retro-inspired.
Times are changing now, and the focus is more on how green cars are these days, as well as their level of perceived quality - how “premium” they feel. Fiat is reportedly working on the next-gen 500 and it is apparently not only going to be slightly bigger than the current car, but also fully-electric and considerably more luxurious.
2019 Fiat Centoventi Concept
For its 120th birthday, Fiat went to the 2019 Geneva Motor Show to present a concept car, except it’s really not a concept car. It’s called the Centoventi Concept, which literally translates to “one hundred and twenty” in our language. It’s not the most creative concept name in the world, but it’ll do, especially when you begin to understand what it’s really all about. Fiat’s press release calls the Centoventi Concept a vehicle that “perfectly expresses the Italian brand’s idea of electric mass mobility in the near future.” What that phrase doesn’t tell you is that the Centoventi Concept is a lot more than just a representation of Fiat’s vision for its future electric. The concept is also a blank canvas that invites user customization. It’s a design-your-own ride that lets you personalize the car’s design from the ground up. Future urban mobility? Sure, the concept is that, too. But it’s really a modular platform for creativity. The Centoventi Concept doesn’t really have a “look,” in large part because that “look” will depend on how you design it.
2019 Abarth 595 Esseesse
Fiat will launch a new performance flagship model for the 500 range in the form of the new, 2019 Abarth 595 esseesse that’s set to debut at the 2019 Geneva motor show. The Italian brand is also not only celebrating its 120th anniversary this year but the 70th anniversary of Abarth too, hence why it’s bringing this 500 and a limited series version of the Abarth 124 roadster to the auto show.
Fiat didn’t really want to make the 500e, but it was forced by emissions regulations to add a full EV to its lineup, which it reluctantly did back in 2013. The vehicle itself wasn’t received particularly well at the time, being criticized for its limited range and availability, as well as its high price - it can only be ordered in the states of California and Oregon, although there are plenty you can now buy second hand wherever you live, even in Europe where it was never intended to be sold.
Believe it or not, the 500e is still on sale and has gone essentially unchanged for the last six years, but it’s never really been that popular, an issue with which it hasn’t been helped by the constant introduction of new and better EVs. But, the 500e is not all bad, thanks to its instantly recognizable styling, peppy performance, and decent usability if you’re buying it exclusively for short journeys not too far away from a charging point.
2019 Fiat 500X
Fiat has revealed its revised 500X crossover which has been nipped and tucked for the first time since its 2014 European debut (in the US for the 2016 model year it was launched). It comes with a refreshed exterior with new front and rear light clusters, more tech, and improved engines.
Update 12/12/2018: We’ve updated this review with images taken at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show. Check them out in our gallery below!
Is The 2018 Fiat Panda a Death Trap? Here’s the Crash Test Video
Back in 2015, EuroNCAP rated the 2014 Fiat Panda Cross with three-star safety rating. Four years before, the same organization - the European New Car Assessment Program (EuroNCAP), tested the car and granted it a rather high four-star rating. Fast forward to 2018, and a recent safety evaluation tallied the Fiat Panda up as erringly bad. It received zero stars after EuroNCAP safety test performed in Brussels.
Is this now a worse car than it was before? How did it devolve? How can anyone buy it?
Well, let me tell you right away, the 2018 Fiat Panda is still the same car that it was in 2011. It did not change - at all. However, the EuroNCAP testing procedure is not the same. It is dramatically stricter, now requiring far more in terms of active safety gear. It also uses different dummies for testing (with a system that recognizes potential injuries better than before), and it tests the car for speed assistance, lane support, seat-belt reminders, and automatic emergency braking. None of this was required back in the day.
To answer the question from the title of this article I have to tell you that the latest 2018 Fiat Panda is not actually a death trap. It is just a simple city car that actually “meets or exceeds federal safety requirements in every market in which it is sold.”
2018 Fiat 500 1957 Edition
Fans of the Fiat 500 can’t seem to get enough of the 500 1957 Edition, so much so that the Italian automaker is rolling out a new version of the special edition model. The “new” 500 1957 Edition arrives this fall at a starting price of $20,740. There’s no stated cap on the model’s volume, but the package is available on hardtop and convertible versions of the 500.
2018 Fiat 500L S-Design
Fiat adds another name to its line of S-Design models, this time the family-friendly 500L. Based on the crossover-inspired 500L Cross, the aim of the S-Design version is to inject some extra style into the package, like it’s already done with the Tipo, 500X and 124 Spider.
2018 Fiat 500 Spiaggina by Garage Italia and Pinninfarina
Marking the 60th anniversary since the unveiling of the first special edition car based on the model 500 - the 500 Jolly, known as "Spiaggina," Fiat showcased their new limited edition of the latest Fiat 500. Called the Fiat 500 Spiaggina ’58, the new model is limited to 1958 units. A number which is an homage to the year Fiat showcased the original 500 Jolly, a car adored by rich and famous of the time.
However, apart from Fiat showcasing a rather cool Spiaggina ‘58 production model based on the 500C with a 1.2-liter, 69 horsepower engine, Garage Italia and Pininfarina prepared their own celebration model. It is a better one.
As the first Fiat car with an all-wheel-drive system, the Fiat 500X is definitely a unicorn when it comes to the Italian producer. It seems, though, that Fiat is only stuck with this unicorn, as their plan for the next five years does not include any major revitalization or rejuvenation. And, if the brand wants to survive, that is exactly what it needs. Actually, having Fiat completely disappear in a few years’ time isn’t that of a far-fetched idea.
Yet, despite all the media scrutiny that has been present ever since cheerful Marchionne laid out the new plan for the FCA group, Fiat revealed a new car called the 500X Adventurer Edition.
It is obviously yet another attempt at freshening up the car which appeared all the way back in 2014.
Chrysler isn’t on the Chopping Block Yet; Fiat to Retreat, Become Euro-Only EV Brand
FCA’s investor meeting has taken place, and the official word is that Chrysler will carry on as a North-American.-only brand and Fiat will become a Euro-only EV brand. To take things even further, a company spokesperson has also said that Dodge won’t be killed off either. That’s a pretty bold move from FCA considering how unpopular Chrysler and Fiat have become here. What happens with these brands next, however, will determine whether or not they’ll continue to stick around long term.
Sergio Marchionne May Kill Off Chrysler, Remove Fiat from the U.S. Market
The Chrysler brand has had a good run with roots that trace all the way back to its formation in 1925. A rich and iconic history, however, isn’t enough to keep a brand going and it looks like the Chrysler nameplate may get killed off just a few years before it’s 100-year anniversary. That’s the word from an Automotive News report that Sergio Marchionne could kill off the brand at the June 1st investor’s meeting in Balocco, Italy.
The Fiat 500 might be a bit unconventional by modern styling trends, but it has its own loyal following. Never has that been more evident than when we look at its sales figures, which have exceeded more than 1.5-million units sold since 2007. Needless to say, it’s an old favorite among its followers and it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere soon. It was updated for the 2016 model year and will probably get a revamp in the near future. Until then, we want to cater to our 500 fanboys out there and declare the Fiat 500 our wallpaper of the day. We’ve hand-picked our favorite, but there’s plenty more in the gallery at the bottom of this page if you find yourself wanting a little more. Go ahead and snag them up – they are free!
2018 Fiat 500 Urbana Edition
Originally introduced in 1957, the Fiat 500 remained in production for nearly 20 years, during which it became one of the most iconic vehicles in history. The nameplate was revived in 2007 as a competitor for the modern Volkswagen Beetle and Mini Cooper and was received with great enthusiasm. However, Fiat didn’t do much to upgrade it over the last 11 years, with only two minor facelifts launched as of 2018. The latest update was unveiled at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, where Fiat also brought the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine back to the U.S. in a non-Abarth model. Two months later and the Italian brand launched a new special edition model called the Urbana Edition.
It’s become quite common for automakers to add special edition models when their facelifts aren’t very consistent, and this is exactly what the Urbana Edition is all about. With add-ons that include black trim, new wheels, and a limited color palette, the Urbana Edition was designed to keep things interesting for a vehicle that’s getting a bit long in the tooth. The 500 is not alone in this though, as both the 500L and 500X received identical packages. The 500 Urbana Edition will become available this spring.
Continue reading to learn more about the Fiat 500 Urbana Edition.
2018 Fiat 500 Abarth
Without a doubt, the Fiat 500 is an absolutely iconic automobile. First rolling off the production line way back in 1957, this tiny little go-getter found owners across Italy, eventually selling nearly 4 million units by the time it was discontinued in 1975. In 2007, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles reintroduced the nameplate as a modern front-engine, FWD city car, infusing it with as much charm and fun as possible in an attempt to rekindle the old Cinquecento flame. Although bigger and heavier than those first 500’s, the new model managed to offer some real smiles behind the wheel, especially with the go-faster Abarth versions. Taking cues from the old school sport models, the new 500 Abarth gets more power, firmer suspension, and nippier steering, not to mention every aesthetic performance nod possible in such a small package. Fast forward to today, and the entire Fiat 500 lineup was upgraded for the 2018 model year with a turbo engine and a new look, but the fastest and most aggressive of the bunch remains the Abarth model. Upgrades over the normal 500 once again include all the right stuff – big wheels, big brakes, hard suspension, and more power, not to mention the requisite go-faster stripes in the flanks.
All told, the Fiat 500 remains a quirky and fun little city car with a decent splash of performance, a modern take on a classic micro machine. However, with so many other killer hot hatches on the market, such as the Ford Fiesta ST and Mini Cooper S, can the 500 Abarth keep pace, or has the scorpion lost some of its sting?
Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth.
2017 Abarth 695 Rivale
The Abarth 500 has been on the receiving end of some interesting special edition models in the past. We’ve seen the Abarth 695 Biposto Record, the 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition, and the 500 Track Experience, among others. None of them, though, can lay claim to the title of being the “most sophisticated Abarth ever.” That distinction, according to Abarth itself, now rests on the shoulders of the 695 Rivale Special Edition.
Developed specifically to celebrate the company’s close ties to yacht maker Riva, the 695 Rivale is the physical embodiment of the premium luxury that goes into the craft of building those sea vessels. Safe to say, that “most sophisticated Abarth ever” title fits the 695 Rivale. It’s inundated with aesthetic features that shine a big spotlight on the nautical theme of the compact car. Inside and out, the 695 Rivale is decked to the brim with luxury, the kind you expect from any one of the yachts that Riva has built in its 175-year history. The special edition Abarth 695 doesn’t pack any power or performance upgrades, but that’s an inconsequential omission when you compare it to the quantity and quality of cosmetic additions given to the hot hatch. There’s no word yet on how many models Abarth plans to build of the 695 Rivale, but another special edition model, the Abarth 695 Rivale 175th Anniversary, is limited to just 350 units, divided into 175 units for the coupe model and another 175 for the cabriolet version.
Update 02/21/2018: Our friend Cyril stopped by a showroom in Paris and snapped a few shots of the Abarth 695 Rivale. Check them out in the gallery below!
2018 Fiat 500
One of Fiat’s most iconic nameplates, the 500 was originally introduced in 1957 and kept in production for almost two decades, until 1975. The nameplate was revived in 2007 as a neo-retro design based on the first mini car. It was Fiat’s answer to the modern Volkswagen Beetle and Mini Cooper, introduced in 1997 and 2000, respectively. The new 500 was received with great enthusiasm, and the addition of convertible and Abarth models made it that much more popular. However, unlike the Mini Cooper, the 500 soldiered on unchanged for years, with its first update launched in 2015. Three years have passed, and Fiat is again updating the small hatchback.
Unveiled at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show alongside the rest of Fiat’s North American lineup, the update is far from spectacular, but it does add a few new features to the 500’s cute exterior. The interior carries over unchanged, which is somewhat disappointing, but the drivetrain department has a new engine to brag about. It’s not as new as it is rehashed from an old model, but it’s significantly more powerful than the outgoing unit. More about that in the review below.
Continue reading to learn more about the Fiat 500.


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Groundbreaking COLLAB Takes Over Iceland's Beverage Scene
MON, SEP 18, 2023 15:14 CET
In an industry ripe for innovation, COLLAB has successfully disrupted the non-alcoholic beverage sector, unveiling an entirely new product segment that seamlessly bridges physical performance and well-being. With an eye on expansion, COLLAB has announced its launch in the Swedish market, bringing its award-winning formula to an eager new consumer base.
With an impressive rise from a standing start to gaining 30% of the market share in Iceland within four years, COLLAB has tapped into a previously unexplored customer demographic hungry for a beverage that promotes both vitality and health. This new category has proven to be a game-changer, securing COLLAB’s position as the nation's most favoured beverage. What sets COLLAB apart is its groundbreaking formula - a rich blend of pure marine collagen protein sourced sustainably from Arctic fishing by-products and natural caffeine devoid of added sugars. This innovative pick-me-up offers consumers a refreshing beverage that harmonizes energizing qualities with wellness, establishing a new benchmark in the functional beverage sector.
A testament to its widespread acclaim, COLLAB was awarded the prestigious World Beverage Innovation Award in 2022, standing tall as the "Best Functional Beverage" of the year. This accolade underlines the brand's commitment to catering to the evolving needs of today’s health-conscious consumer.
The story of COLLAB is a narrative of a successful partnership between the innovative marine collagen start-up FEEL Iceland and Ölgerðin, Iceland‘s largest beverage producer. This alliance has fostered a product that not only revitalizes the consumer with a burst of energy but also supports long-term health benefits, courtesy of its unique concoction of collagen and vitamins. Each can contains 5.9 grams of hydrolized marine collagen, backed by renewable energy sources, the production of COLLAB is a beacon of sustainable practices in the industry.
The spotlight now turns to Sweden, where consumers are eagerly anticipating the arrival of COLLAB - a beverage that promises to redefine the meaning of functional beverages, offering a tantalizing blend of vitality and wellness with caffeine for now and collagen for the future.
Svavar Kari Gretarsson

domain: news


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Motorola Mobility's Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) group has signed a collaboration agreement with eight top USA based research universities.
Smartphones could come with fluid-cooling as soon as early as late this year, according to a report citing component suppliers.
More than 1,500 USA pedestrians were estimated to be treated in emergency rooms in 2010 for injuries related to using a cell phone while walking, according to a study.
Nokia has all but confirmed that it will be showing off its long expected 41-megapixel cameraphone next month.
Fitch said that the ratings reflect MTN's leading market position in most of the markets in which it operates.
While SMS remains an essential communication tool in both regions due to its pervasive nature, (used by 96% of UK respondents and 92% in the US), exactly half of USA users claimed they prefer OTT messaging services over SMS because of its speed, Click here for more.
Orascom Telecom Holding -- the Egyptian company controlled by Russia's VimpelCom -- has walked away from its attempt to buy control of the Canadian mobile network, Wind Mobile.
Aruba Networks has announced the acquisition of privately-held Meridian Apps for an undisclosed amount.
USA based mobile spammers are using cell phone users' personal data to launch invasive, highly targeted attacks, according to a security software vendor, AdaptiveMobile, Click here for more.
China's Huawei has said that it is not planning a bid to buy Nokia, refuting a report in the Financial Times that had suggested that a takeover bid was possible.


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Businesswoman Diane Bondaruk sees promoting good causes as “a way to give back. I love helping the community — and I love to network”
Diane Bondaruk says she was first “bitten by the fundraising bug” when she organized an event in 2008 to raise money for Ella Shepherd Marchildon, a Kirkland mother of five who needed specialized treatment in the United States for a rare form of cancer.
She recruited more than 20 people selling everything from clothing and jewelry to cosmetics and crafts and helped them to set up at tables in the gymnasium of a West Island high school. “I filled the gym with vendors,” she recalled, “and we donated proceeds of what they sold — and that’s what started my love of giving and helping.”
A couple of years earlier, Bondaruk had started a business in the basement of her Pointe-Claire home, selling quality brand-name women’s shoes at a discount — overstock from the previous season. She contacted customers to tell them about the fundraiser; they, in turn, spread the word among their friends.
Soon after, Bondaruk moved her business, House of Shoes, to a second-floor office space in Pointe- Claire. In time, others joined her there, selling goods including accessories and jewelry. And for several years, the space was the venue for what Bondaruk called Shop For A Cause events: People would approach her about causes for which they wanted to raise funds, from the Montreal Children’s Hospital to their kids’ sports teams. They’d publicize the events, which were usually held on weekends, and Bondaruk and the others would donate a percentage of sales to the cause.
“Diane stood out immediately as a different kind of store proprietor,” said Sandra Phillips (smartshoppingmontreal.com), author of Smart Shopping in Montreal. In addition to providing affordable name-brand shoes, “she made it her mandate from the beginning that her shoe shop would become a nexus for giving back to the community and to charity … I applaud her not only for managing to keep a small discount retail business open all these years, but for consistently going the extra mile for many different good causes.”
Bondaruk, 55, sees promoting good causes as “a way to give back. I love helping the community — and I love to network.”
An animal lover who says, if she ever won a lottery, she would open an animal sanctuary, Bondaruk has planned another fundraising event — this one for the SPCA Ouest de l’Île in Vaudreuil: It will take place June 6 at the Karnak Temple in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.
The SPCA Ouest de l’Île “is a community affair,” director Rémi Brazeau said. When its future was in peril this year, more than $60,000 raised through crowdfunding meant it could pay off its debts and stay open. Money to operate the shelter comes from donations and community fundraising events, Brazeau said. “It’s all about the community.”
Bondaruk said: “It was going to close, and I said: ‘I have to do something.’ We are all connected.”
Diane is very much a people person. She is bubbly and kind-hearted and always looking to help others. She is involved in the community, always giving people a chance. — House of Shoes customer Tamara Clark
She recruited two friends with whom she had already done fundraisers, Tina Christensen and Lyndsay Goodfellow. The SPCA event will feature an evening dance with live entertainment and more than 20 tables of vendors during the day. The entertainers are donating their time, as is photographer Wanda Malfara, and food is being provided at cost by Anchor Catering.
To Tamara Clark, a House of Shoes customer who became a friend, “Diane is very much a people person. She is bubbly and kind-hearted and always looking to help others. She is involved in the community, always giving people a chance.”
Clark, 36, is organizing the live entertainment for the June 6 event, in which she will perform as well. She had been singing professionally, but then stepped back to have a family. Her boys are 6 and 2 now, and she wants to return to her singing career.
Goodfellow, 30, says Bondaruk is largely responsible for getting her started in her career making and selling handmade jewelry (lovemontrealjewelry.com). They met at the fundraiser Bondaruk had organized for Marchildon, who died in October 2013. “It was an amazing fundraiser and we just sort of hit it off,” Goodfellow said.
Bondaruk gave her a spot at House of Shoes and, in lieu of rent, she put in hours. Although she has since moved on to selling mainly online and at trade shows, the two remain friends. “She’s a sweetheart. … She likes people first, trusts them first,” Goodfellow said. “And she likes to help people get where they are supposed to be.”
To clinical psychologist Laurie Betito, host of the program Passion on CJAD radio and author of The Sex Bible for People Over 50, “Diane is a real community player, which is why I connected with her. … She is a classy lady with a big heart and totally gets customer service.”
Betito will be signing copies of her book at the June 6 daytime event and, during the dance, auctioning off a co-host spot on her radio show.
“Diane is a generous and selfless woman and I am truly thankful and honoured to call her a great friend,” said Melissa Vitulano. Bondaruk has helped her to raise money for events, including the Weekend to End Women’s Cancers, in which she has participated for years. Vitulano’s 14-year-old daughter has autism and she has organized various events for autism awareness as well as eight galas: Bondaruk has attended them all: Her 21-year-old daughter has autism and she calls it “a cause dear to my heart.”
“I think every fundraiser that I do is an investment is all our futures — which is why I do them all,” Bondaruk said. “We never know when we are going to need help ourselves.”
AT A GLANCE
A daylong event and a dance to benefit the SPCA Ouest de l’Île (SPCA West Island) in Vaudreuil will take place June 6 at the Karnak Temple, 3350 Sources Blvd. in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., about 20 vendors will be on hand with fashion, beauty products, accessories and more. Sandra Phillips will sign copies of her current Smart Shopping Montreal book from 11 a.m. to noon and answer shopping questions. From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., psychologist Laurie Betito, host of the show Passion on CJAD radio, will sign copies of her book, The Sex Bible for People Over 50. CBC’s Frank Cavallaro will be on hand as well.
From 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., a fundraising dance, Rockin’ for the SPCA, will take place with singer Tamara Clark and the Triple Threat Blues Band, singer Sandra Tavares, Voodoo Jazz and Chris DJ Dropsen. Cash bar and free hors d’oeuvres.
Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. All proceeds to the SPCA Ouest de l’Île.
Tickets are available at Diane Bondaruk’s House of Shoes, 203 Hymus Blvd., Pointe-Claire, Suite 203. Open daily from 11 a.m., but closing times vary: Call 514-674-2008 to check. Tickets are also available through the SPCA Ouest de l’Île, 3658 Cité-des-Jeunes Blvd., Vaudreuil, from Wednesday through Sunday. Call 514-566-5678 first. Organizer Tina Christensen can do etransfers: email her at email@example.com. House of Shoes and SPCA Ouest de l’Île are on Facebook.


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Reviews of AMD Radeon RX Vega will be published August 14
Yesterday we reviewed the results of testing of serial Radeon RX Vega 64 in 3DMark. It turned out that the flagship of AMD will compete with the GeForce GTX 1080.
However, in games the situation may be somewhat different. Although the leak may appear before the official tests will be published thematic resources on 14 August. The ban on the publication of photographs of the card and the decompression process will be filmed tomorrow.
It is also worth noting that the original model RX Vega 56 was supposed to come out later flagship in September. But AMD changed its mind and run adapters will be held at the same time. Moreover, the company has asked the thematic resources to give priority to the speed of output of related for the younger card.
Radeon RX Vega


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The last Caudron CR.714 is now 80. ATMAT used 3D printing technology to recreate the missing elements of the aircraft
SLM 3D metal printing - this additive manufacturing technology will be presented at JD-Tools Polska at the Targi Kielce's Industrial Spring
Sosnowiec witnessed the Polish 3D business sector PRIZES 2018 PRIZES presentation for 2018. In the most important event in Poland category, the SIT Polska 3D Printing Days held in Targi Kielce come at the top of the ranking
The first evening of Industrial Spring was marked with awards presented for the most modern products and solutions showcased at specialized expo events - STOM-TOOL, STOM-BLECH & CUTTING, STOM LASER, STOM-ROBOTICS, WELDING, WIRTOPROCES, EXPO-SURFACE, PNEUMATICON, CONTROL-STOM.


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Williams-Sonoma Q1 Sales Fall
MILAN — San Francisco-based home retailer Williams-Sonoma Inc.’s numbers are suffering due to declines at key brands including West Elm, but Wall Street didn’t seem too worried.
The company said Tuesday that first-quarter net earnings for the quarter ended April 30 plummeted year-over-year to $156.5 million from $254.1 million. Brand revenue fell 6 percent; West Elm led declines.
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The company’s earnings per share results beat Wall Street expectations. In the first quarter, Williams-Sonoma Inc. posted $2.35 per share. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring costs, came to $2.64 per share.
Overall brand revenue for the quarter dipped to $1.76 billion from $1.89 billion, as sales of West Elm fell 15.8 percent, the Williams Sonoma brand fell 4.4 percent, Pottery Barn Kids and Teen fell 3.3 percent and Pottery Barn fell 0.4 percent. Gross profit was $675.1 million, down from $828.5 million year-over-year. Operating income dropped to $199.5 million from $323.5 million reported in the first quarter of 2022 ended May 1.
Looking ahead, the company was confident, saying that its outlook for fiscal 2023 was unchanged.
“In fiscal 2023, we expect net revenue growth in the range of negative 3 percent to [positive] 3 percent growth, with an operating margin between 14 to 15 percent,” the company said in a statement.
Home to Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Pottery Barn Teen, West Elm, Williams Sonoma Home, Rejuvenation, Mark and Graham, Williams-Sonoma Inc. and most recently GreenRow, the company said it expects mid-to-high-single-digit annual net revenue growth with operating margin above 15 percent in the long term, as the company continues to focus on its online and business-to-business. In its investor presentation released in April, the company said 66 percent of its business is represented by e-commerce.
“Despite a challenging macro backdrop, we delivered another solid quarter of earnings. With our focus on compelling product, customer service and profitability, we achieved our financial expectations,” Williams-Sonoma Inc. president and chief executive officer Laura Alber said in the statement.
Earlier this month the home goods and furnishings conglomerate launched GreenRow, an internally designed and developed brand that incorporates sustainable materials and manufacturing practices to create “heirloom” products.
With longevity at the heart of the new label, GreenRow aims to produce colorful, vintage-inspired quality products that will be on display on GreenRow.com.
This latest launch features living, bedroom and dining furniture as well as rugs, bedding, bath, baby, lighting, pillows, throws, curtains, table linens, dinnerware and decor, all crafted using low-impact materials wherever possible, including responsibly sourced linen, cotton, wood and recycled materials. The debut collection features handmade, artisanal products.
Shares of Williams-Sonoma dropped slightly 0.3 percent on Tuesday, to $111.85.
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Harvey Nichols Sees Sales Dip, Losses Widen in Year Marred by Closures
Nike Logs $1.3 Billion Profit, But Supply Chain Issues Persist


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Samsung Electronics suffered a fifth straight drop in quarterly earnings as the Galaxy S6 failed to reverse its declining fortunes in global smartphone sales.
The company's overall earnings drop during the April-June quarter was 8 percent but it reported a much bigger decline of 38 percent in the mobile division's income. The sharp profit drop in the mobile business came despite its ambitious start to the quarter with the launch of two flagship smartphones: the Galaxy S6 (Review | Pictures) and Galaxy S6 edge (Review | Pictures) featuring a curved side display.
"Total sales of the S6 and S6 Edge during the second quarter were below expectations," Park Jinyoung, a vice president at Samsung's mobile communications team, said on a conference call Thursday.
The decline in the mobile profit was smaller than the previous quarter's nearly 60 percent plunge, but it extended the mobile division's losing streak. Samsung's sky-high growth in the smartphone industry came to a sudden stop in 2013 as bigger iPhone models lured buyers from Samsung phones and Chinese phone makers squeezed its sales in China.
Samsung's April-June net income was KRW 5.8 trillion (roughly Rs. 31,989 crores), down 8 percent from KRW 6.3 trillion a year earlier. A FactSet survey of analysts predicted KRW 5.6 trillion of net income.
Sales fell 7 percent over a year earlier to KRW 48.5 trillion while operating income dropped 4 percent to KRW 6.9 trillion, in line with its earnings preview earlier this month. It generated KRW 2.8 trillion operating income from the mobile business compared with KRW 4.4 trillion a year earlier.
The only bright spot came from sales of components powering smartphones. A robust performance at its semiconductor department helped narrow the overall profit decline. Operating income from its semiconductor division surpassed the KRW 3 trillion mark for the first time in several years.
Samsung pinned high hopes on the S6 and S6 edge phones when they were introduced in April. So much so that local media dubbed them the "Lee Jae-yong phone," indicating that they were overseen by the Samsung chairman's son, Lee Jae-yong. He is a vice chairman at Samsung who is widely expected to succeed his ailing father.
But sales of the flagship models fell short, dealing a blow to the 47-year-old heir apparent who is under pressure to demonstrate he is capable of leading the Asian consumer technology giant at a time of serious challenges.
The company was hit by two problems with its Galaxy S6 series. The regular version of the phone, the Galaxy S6, wasn't as popular as expected, while it could not keep up with demand for the S6 edge model, which features a display that curves on both sides that is more difficult to produce.
Market research firm IDC said Samsung, still the world's largest maker of smartphones, was the only top five smartphone vendor that lost market share during the second quarter, falling to 22 percent, from 25 percent a year earlier.
Samsung executives did not give many details about whether the company would tweak its mobile strategies. Their response during the earnings conference call was to "innovate the hardware to lead the market in the premium segment" and to "continue to add services."
The company is scheduled to hold an event on Aug. 13 in New York city, bringing forward its usual product launch schedule by one month. It is widely expected to announce two new mobile devices. Samsung has held the new product launch in September in previous years.
Samsung shares fell nearly 3 percent after earnings announcement.


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Following public hearings and a unanimous vote by Suffolk County legislators, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone signed the Suffolk County Pet Dealer Bill (1047-2014) into law on Tuesday, June 17.
Suffolk is now the first municipality to regulate the sale of pets under a New York State law that gave such authority in January 2014. The law, which takes aim at stopping the sale of puppy mill dogs, was proposed by Legislator Jay Schneiderman (I-Montauk) and Legislator William Spencer (D-Huntington). The New York State law was sponsored by State Senator Ken LaValle (R-1st Senate District). Similar legislation has been enacted in over 40 cities in the U.S., including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Phoenix.
“Help is on the way for puppy mill pets. We are grateful for County Executive Steve Bellone’s support and leadership on this issue, and the passage of this bill tells puppy mill industry that the writing’s on the wall. We’re encouraged by the support of the entire Suffolk County Legislature and the people of Long Island,” said Pamela Green, Executive Director of Kent Animal Shelter who served on Legislator Schneiderman’s subcommittee on the bill along with representatives from the ASPCA, the US Humane Society, and key local animal advocates.
– Prohibits pet stores or dealers from selling pets originating from breeders who have received violations from recent inspections conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
– Requires pet stores and pet dealers to provide information on the background of a pet upon request by a consumer, including the pet’s origin, USDA records, and other supplemental documentation.
– Requires that animals are sold in Suffolk County at or after 8 weeks of age.
– Would be enforced by the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing, and Consumer Affairs.
– Imposes a $500 per violation fine on any pet store or dealer who violates the law.
Kent Animal Shelter is a 501(C)3 not-for-profit organization that was established in 1968 as a no-kill haven for abandoned, neglected or abused animals. More information about Kent Animal Shelter is available at http://www.kentanimalshelter.com.
Source: Press release issued by Kent Animal Shelter, June 19.
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Rather than protecting big business from the impact of Brexit, government should do more to support the low-carbon transition during this turbulent time, argues Molly Scott Cato
The government seems to be veering increasingly towards a ‘hard' Brexit. But the economic illiteracy of such a position was demonstrated recently by the government hinting that it will shield selective...
Plastic and cardboard packaging makes up more than a quarter of product weight in some of the UK's best-selling chocolate eggs
Fast food giant is the first major restaurant company to join the initiative
It's up to MPs and peers to ensure the Withdrawal Bill helps to ensure a green Brexit, argues Lord Krebs
Three quarters of businesses enjoy commercial benefits from going green, according to new research from Barclays


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Finding drugs from Canada after Rx Depot closes
Friday, November 7th 2003, 12:00 am
News On 6
Thousands of Americans are searching for "legal ways" to find low-cost medications, after a federal judge ordered Rx Depot to close its nationwide storefronts.
Dozens of storefronts across the country are now in the same boat as Rx Depot's Oklahoma operations, closed for business while the company appeals the federal court's decision. That leaves tens of thousands of senior citizens wondering how they'll afford their medications.
Rx Depot customer Duke Waters: "I think they're putting the screws to us senior citizens. They're hurting us. They're not helping us."
Rx Depot President Carl Moore: "There are people being price-gouged in this country to the point that it's unbelievable. When you see other industrialized nations around the world at a third of the cost of this country, something's gotta be done."
Carl Moore says he expects Federal Judge Claire Egan's decision to shutdown other storefront operations within weeks. But, internet-savvy people will still be allowed to order their own medications online and those who are able to travel can still go across the border to legally purchase foreign drugs.


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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) – Pouring one out — or pouring one in — in honor of Dayton Beer Week, 13 local breweries are working together to create a masterpiece
The product? Peace Accord — a golden yellow pale ale with citrusy, fruity, and earthy aromas and flavors, according to our partners at the Dayton Business Journal.
The name is a nod to the famous Dayton Peace Accords, the 1995 negotiations in Dayton that ended the Bosnian War.
Warped Wing will tap the collaboration beer in its tasting room on Aug. 19, prior to the kick-off of Dayton Beer Week, which runs Aug. 20 to Aug. 27, according to the Dayton Business Journal.
Participating breweries in the collaboration are Carillon Brewery, Crooked Handle Brewing Co., Dayton Beer Company, Eudora Brewery, Fifth Street Co-op Brewery, Fig Leaf Brewery, Hairless Hare Brewery, Lucky Star Brewery, Pin-ups & Pints, Star City Brewery, Toxic Brew Company, Warped Wing and Yellow Springs Brewery.


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IDC found in its recent MarketScape and Vendor Snapshot reports that Ricoh is a leader of the global document workflow services industry because of its commitment to scalable, end-to-end solutions for customer pain points around paper and digital document management.read more
Solid sales of the continuous feed VC60000 helped Ricoh claim second spot in worldwide production printer market share by unit shipments, according to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Production Print Tracker, August 2016.read more
Ricoh SA is making the Theta S 360-degree camera available in South Africa via Bowline to Takelot.com at a RRP of R8389 and a separate hard case for R789.read more
Ricoh SA is now offering Communication Services as one of its service lines based on its own technology and promoting higher degrees of collaboration and interconnectivity.read more
Ricoh SA has appointed Frank de Afonseca to head up its Production Printing Business Group.
De Afonseca is a 20-plus year veteran of the print industry who heads up a portion of Ricoh’s business achieving a new level of maturity.
Canocopy of Namibia is Ricoh SA’s Business Partner of the Year in 2016.read more
Ricoh SA is in the process of assembling one of the most powerful sales, technical, and operational teams in the document imaging, managed document services, and production print industry at its Cape Town office.read more
By Jacques van Wyk, COO of Ricoh SA
SMEs should treat the personalisation of communications as a huge opportunity rather than focusing on the potential impact of poor communications as a risk to their businesses.
Ricoh has brought its newest TotalFlow solution to market that improves visibility into and streamlining of short run and on demand book production.read more
While the youngest are still being born, the oldest members of Generation Z are now 19 years old and making the journey from full-time education to the workplace. They are eager, digital natives with a unique approach to the concept of work, writes Jacques van Wyk, chief operating officer of Ricoh SA.read more


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Good news folks . Starting Jan 1st 2022, food and packaging container made from Styrofoam (Polystyrene Foam) have been banned in New York state. The Styrofoam packing peanuts have also been banned.
Most of us have seen Styrofoam containers when we order takeout. They are the white clam-shell type containers. Styrofoam is light , breaks easily, and does not biodegrade well, contributing a lot to micro-plastic pollution. Since they are not a candidate for recycling program, banning them is a great decision for our environment and community.
Details about the ban can be found in NYS – DEC website – https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/120762.html


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As some of the biggest investment firms in the world spend more money into sponsoring cryptocurrency projects, institutional interest in cryptocurrencies is continuing to grow at an unprecedented rate.
The newly formed division, known as Laser Venture Capital, will focus on funding initiatives in the cryptocurrency market’s web3, centralised finance (CeFi), decentralised finance (DeFi), and blockchain infrastructure sectors.
One of Japan’s biggest investment banks, Nomura Holdings, is the most recent company to enter the cryptocurrency market by establishing a new venture capital business that would concentrate on digital assets.
The inaugural offering from Nomura’s brand-new digital assets company, Laser Digital, will be Laser Venture Capital. The bank has two further launches scheduled for investor products and secondary trading.
According to reports, billionaire Adrian Cheng’s venture capital firm C Ventures aims to launch a new $200 million fund in Hong Kong just for investing in the cryptocurrency sector.
Laser Digital will offer institutional clients and investors goods and services related to cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, DeFi, NFTs, and other tokens, according to Nomura, which initially announced its ambitions to establish the unit in May. Laser Digital Holdings AG, the bank’s holding company for its cryptocurrency operations, was established in Switzerland.
C Ventures has made investments in Animoca Brands, RTFKT Studios, and Matrixport, among other companies. According to Cheng, the company’s hedge fund strategy mostly focuses on cryptocurrency trading, and it has rejected proposals from angel funds or startups due to their high valuations and limited upsides.
In addition to the new cryptocurrency fund, C Ventures will invest $300 million over the next 18 months in private equity and private credit strategies.
By entering the market when prices are at their lowest points in more than a year, it appears that C Ventures adheres to Warren Buffet’s maxim to “Be frightened when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.” Ben Cheng declared, “We’re on the offence when people are on defensive. He continued, saying that traditionally, such a setting “will produce the best result,” and that he anticipates a recovery in another 6 to 9 months.
Cheng claims that after doubling last year, the value of the company’s current cryptocurrency investments climbed by 40% in the first half of this year.
- Despite faltering prices, institutional interest in cryptocurrencies is still increasing
- Check all news and articles from the latest Business news updates.


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Dudes across the country will now have their very own man cave-like space to get a manicure and pedicure.
Hollywood nail salon Hammer & Nails, which targets male customers, announced that it sold 183 franchise licenses in eight states last month. And it will be opening four locations in the next six months, including one in Folsom.
Founder Michael Elliot said the interest has been overwhelming.
“I walked away from a successful career as a screenwriter to do something foreign to me,” Elliot said. “And to be at this point where we’re on our way to being the next great men’s brand – I’m pinching myself. It’s cool.”
Elliot’s screenwriting credits include 2002 film “Brown Sugar” and 2010’s “Just Wright.”
Franchisee Michael Fluegge signed on to sell and open 83 franchise locations in Florida, Georgia, and North and South Carolina. Fluegge said he became interested in the concept after Elliot’s appearance on ABC’s “Shark Tank” in 2014.
Elliot said customers can expect the new locations to offer the same look and services as its original Hollywood shop, including oversized leather chairs with personal TVs and headphones. Services range from a basic $23 manicure to a $120 “Jack Hammer” package, which includes a hand and foot treatment featuring a custom Tennessee whiskey and brown sugar scrub.
The idea, said Elliot, was to make the idea of nail treatments more appealing to men – particularly those who would never think to visit a nail salon.
“If I could create a place for a guy who would never set foot in a nail salon, I could be inventing a market as opposed to catering to one,” he said. “That was in my mind.”
Hammer & Nails expects to have 250 locations across the country by 2021.
Pop culture and video-game fans can now expect to receive even more goodies from subscription box company Loot Crate.
The L.A. e-commerce firm launched an apparel-focused monthly crate called Loot Wear last month. Stuart Felkner, brand manager at the company, said offering apparel is a way to help build its nerd culture community.
“Apparel allows those that identify with specific characters or brands to express their fandom,” Felkner said in a statement. “So, we’re very excited to introduce Loot Wear to our growing subscriber base across the world.”
Customers will get access to limited-edition items featuring branded items from Marvel, World of WarCraft, Star Trek, and Ghostbusters.
For reprint and licensing requests for this article, CLICK HERE.
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- Packing ’Em In
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A new head of the Office of the Public Counsel is expected to be appointed in the coming financial year to ensure consumers have representation in their complaints against businesses.
That assurance was given by Minister of Energy and Business Development Senator Lisa Cummins on Monday, in response to questions from MP for the City Corey Lane who expressed concern about consumers suffering at the hands of businesses that were not regulated or licensed.
“Within the parliamentary brief, I see that the aim is to get a lot of these cases before counsel within 42 days.
“Is there any chance within this financial year that we can look at how we license work… [and implement] a robust programme in educating and advocating action for citizens in relation to their grievances with particular businesses? And how are we looking to bring about that 42-day target to get these particular cases heard and determined?” Lane asked as the Estimates Debate continued on Monday.
Sitting in the well of Parliament along with other key officials from her ministry, Senator Cummins said the previous Public Counsel had moved on elsewhere in the government service and a replacement would have to be found.
“We expect that during this financial year, we will have the assignment of a new officer to take responsibility for that to treat to the very kinds of issues that you made reference to,” she said.
“So, yes, the expectation is that we will meet the targets that are being set once we have completed the process of working through the Public Service Commission, the assignment of a new Office of Public Counsel.”
The Office of the Public Counsel administers the Consumer Guarantee Act, represents consumers at rate hearings, mediates disputes between consumers and suppliers, and represents consumers before the Consumer Claims Tribunal. (DP)


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Facebook mobile application – Pixabay/Digitalpfade
CAIRO – 2 July 2017: Facebook is launching a new global Wi-Fi feature. The feature lets business promote their free Wi-Fi to visitors; in return Facebook will promote those businesses.
According to Metro, this feature will be released worldwide on both iOS and Android platforms.
This will allow you to find the nearest spot with free internet access if your data allowance is low.
The feature is found under the “more” tab in the Facebook mobile application. Once you locate the “find Wi-Fi” tab, Facebook will notify you that you need to turn it on. Then Facebook will present a map to display the closest hotspot, as well as the details about the bushiness that provides it.
As mentioned in Tech Crunch, Facebook has around 2 billion monthly users that are connected and use the application. This new feature might increase the number of Facebook users.


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When budgets are tight: Tips on buying a fire truck
Jim Bodony knows a thing or two about fire trucks, as both a fire chief and from years of selling fire trucks. His is a unique perspective.
Bodony is the current chief of the Glen Ellyn (Ill.) Volunteer Fire Company. Earlier, Bodony spent 37 years with the Oak Brook (Ill.) Fire Department and 35 years with E-ONE, a worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of fire rescue vehicles.
Here are some comments from Bodony. His views will be part of FIRE CHIEF's upcoming Focus on Apparatus supplement. Bodony currently is on a sabbatical from selling fire trucks, but he was willing to share several points about buying a fire truck to fit your department’s budget.
Read the entire story from FIRE CHIEF, our sister publication.


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TIPA, a provider of compostable packaging solutions, has been awarded the Most Innovative Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Company Award in the 2023 APAC Business Awards.
The APAC Business Awards claims to recognise outstanding companies and individuals across the Asia Pacific region. TIPA was selected for its innovative approach to compostable packaging, which is designed to break down naturally in commercial and home compost facilities, leaving no harmful residue behind.
“This award is a testament to TIPA’s pioneering work in developing and commercialising compostable packaging solutions that are truly sustainable,” said Shane Sullivan, vice president of APAC at TIPA. “We are proud to be at the forefront of sustainability changes in the Asia Pacific region, and we are committed to helping businesses and consumers reduce their environmental impact. We are committed to working with our partners to accelerate the adoption of compostable packaging and help create a truly circular economy within the region”.
Hear more about TIPA and its work in Australia from Shane Sullivan in our chat with him on the PKN Podcast Ep 67.
TIPA says its compostable packaging is used by brands around the world, including in the fashion and retail industries.


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The continuous increase in kerosene and cooking gas prices will lead to increased difficulty in meeting basic food and other essential commodities needed by Nigerians.
Prof. Aminu Usman, an Economics lecturer at the Kaduna State University, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
He was reacting to the recent price of household kerosene and Liquified Petroleum Gas (cooking gas) released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday.
According to the NBS report, on a year-on-year basis, the average retail price per litre of kerosene rose by 98.76 per cent from N397.34 in July 2021 to N789.75 in July 2022.
The report said on a month-on-month basis, there was a 3.68 per cent increase in the product in July 2022 at N789.75 compared to N761.69 recorded in June 2022.
Similarly, the NBS said the price of refilling a 5kg of cooking gas increased on a year-on-year basis by 105.35 per cent from N2,141.59 in July 2021 to N4,397.68 in July 2022.
While on a month-on-month basis it increased by 4.25 per cent from N4,218.38 recorded in June 2022 to N4,397.68 in July 2022.
Usman said the rise in the price of the commodities was expected given the upward movement of commodity prices in both Nigeria and international economies.
According to him, it further confirms the inflation figures earlier released by NBS indicating a continuous increase in the country’s inflation rate.
” Recall that the bulk of the price increases came through food inflation which was also influenced by the cost of energy used in the food processing for both manufacturers and households.”
NAN recalls that Nigeria’s headline inflation rate increased to 19.64 per cent on a year-on-year basis in July according to the NBS.
He said that diesel, kerosine and cooking gas supply and prices had been deregulated and, therefore, not subject to subsidy of any kind from the government.
The economist, therefore, said that the prices of these products reflected the actual market prices, especially as it relates to the international crude and refined petroleum products prices.
“Our case is made worse by our inability to refine these products locally and therefore we have to import, which puts much pressure on the value of our local currency as compared with other currencies.
” Therefore, the implication of this is that food will now consume almost all earnings of the common man for life sustainability leaving other basic necessities unattended.
” The inability of the common man to consume other essentials of life means a further contraction of the economy.”
Usman said this would thereby slow down expansion in production and job creation which further compounds the already bad situation for the common man.
According to him, the country and by implication the common man will have to contend with the instability and spiralling price of these commodities.
“This is pending the time we get our acts together with regards to petroleum products refining and or the resolution of the international crises that pushed crude prices up.” (NAN)


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InfoTrends: Online Photo Printing Market Needs Innovation
The digital photo printing industry only has about two to three years to gain back customers who are moving away from printing toward online storage and sharing, according to InfoTrends Associate Director of Photo Printing David Haueter.
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*Feb. 1, 2008 - *The digital photo printing industry only has about two to three years to gain back customers who are moving away from printing toward online storage and sharing, according to InfoTrends Associate Director of Photo Printing David Haueter.
Although the volume of images printed every year is still growing, from 18 billion in 2007 to an estimated 19.7 billion images in 2008, users are moving more toward electronic viewing online, in digital photo frames, and in HD televisions.
Online photo printing site Snapfish recently dropped the price of 4 x 6-inch prints to $0.09, a move Haueter said could spark other similar sites to do the same in a few months. This downward pressure on print prices, however, is unlikely to effect retail printing or online-to-retail printing for the time being, Haueter said.
For now, he said the digital photo printing industry must look toward new innovations to keep users from drifting away from printing their photos.
"What can we do to make printing more appealing to users?" Haueter asked.
He said photos are currently stored haphazardly by users – scattered on online sharing sites, computer hard drives, memory cards, and digital photo frames. The industry could use archiving services and high-quality paper to entice users to print their photos – some high-quality paper has a long shelf-life than DVDs and CDs, he said.
In addition, he said "photo books will become the new photo album," encouraging users to print their images in a convenient, compact form. Photo books, now often used by professional wedding photographers, have seen a 48 percent growth year over year in 2008, Haueter said.
While Internet-to-mail printing services like Snapfish have died down, Internet-to-retail services, like CVS’s online photo ordering with in-store pickup, is the fastest-growing printing industry. It’s expected to close in at 50 percent of the printing market by 2012, said Alan Bullock, InfoTrends associate director of Internet imaging trends.


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Android 12 is still a fairly new version of the platform with Samsung launching the update for its devices only a month after Google’s Pixel phones. It is safe to say that the public release of Android 13 is still very far away. However, the company has already started working on the platform.
Tipster, SamMobile claims that Samsung will begin working towards delivering One UI 5 beta builds by July. The beta releases of Android 13 are expected to roll out later this month.
Based on Google’s release timeline and recent rumors, Samsung will start with its One UI 5.0 beta program once Android 13 reaches platform stability. Samsung has yet to confirm this latest update.
SamMobile also provided a list of devices that would receive One UI 5 and Android 13. Samsung has not revealed any plans regarding One UI 5 and is unlikely to do so until its public release. The tipster also stated that the company is expected to upgrade over 70 devices.


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Chip Crisis Deepens With Daimler, Jaguar Warnings on Sales
Daimler & JLR became the latest carmakers to warn sales will be further crimped by the global semiconductor shortage.
(Bloomberg) -- Daimler AG and Jaguar Land Rover became the latest carmakers to warn sales will be further crimped by the global semiconductor shortage, with the latter flagging deliveries in the second quarter will be 50% worse than initially thought.
Shares in the British luxury carmaker’s Indian parent Tata Motors Ltd. slid 8.4% Tuesday in Mumbai, their biggest drop in almost three months, while Daimler, owner of Mercedes-Benz, fell 4% in Frankfurt, the biggest loss since October. Jaguar Land Rover’s euro bond due January 2026 fell the most since Dec. 11, according to Bloomberg-compiled prices.
A shortage of automotive chips that began late last year as consumer demand for personal devices soared amid pandemic lockdowns has persisted through 2021, raising concerns of the issue spilling into next year. The dearth is threatening to slash $110 billion in sales from the car industry, consulting firm AlixPartners forecast in May, and has forced auto manufacturers to overhaul the way they get the electronic components that have become critical to contemporary vehicle design.
“The chip shortage is presently very dynamic and difficult to forecast,” JLR said. “We expect some level of shortages will continue through to the end of the year and beyond.”
Mercedes-Benz, the world’s biggest luxury-car brand, said Tuesday that deliveries during the second quarter were “significantly” curtailed by a lack of chips, capping its global sales increase at 27%. The shortages were particularly acute last month and the carmaker expects the supply-chain crunch to persist during the coming two quarters.
The pair join China’s biggest automaker in cutting vehicle output as a result of the crisis. SAIC Motor Corp. trimmed its wholesale target by about 500,000 cars in the first half, Bloomberg News reported Monday. Other automakers including Nissan Motor Co., Hyundai Motor Co. and Volkswagen AG have warned that shrinking inventory will keep squeezing sales this summer.
In the U.S., suprisingly strong auto demand has softened. Sales slowed from a near-record annualized pace of 18.6 million vehicles in April to 17.1 million in May and 15.7 million in June, Deutsche Bank AG analyst Emmanuel Rosner estimated.
The chip shortage may create some silver linings for carmakers, too. JLR said it will prioritize production of higher-margin vehicles as the crunch persists, while Ford Motor Co. has seen a paucity of new vehicles drive up prices of used cars and pad profits at its lending arm.
©2021 Bloomberg L.P.


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Nokia today launched its premier Android-based smartphones – Nokia 3, Nokia 5, and Nokia 6 – in India. The three Nokia smartphones will each target a different price point. The Nokia 3 is priced at Rs. 9,499, the Nokia 5 at Rs. 12,899 while the Nokia 6 comes with a price tag of Rs. 14,999. Nokia 6 will be available online on Amazon whereas Nokia 5 and Nokia 3 will be sold exclusively at offline retail stores.
HMD Global, which currently holds the license to sell Nokia branded mobile phones, announced the launch of these new smartphones at an event here in New Delhi. The smartphones were revealed at Mobile World Congress earlier this year. The Nokia 3, 5, and 6 will be the fist Nokia smartphones to hit the Indian market.
The Nokia 6 forms the premium segment of the company’s portfolio of Android-based smartphones. It features a 5.5-inch display running at full HD resolution. The Nokia 6 is powered by Snapdragon 430 processor, supported by 3GB of RAM. There’s a fingerprint sensor on the front. It runs Android 7.0 out of the box. The smartphone comes with a 16MP primary camera at the back and an 8MP front-facing camera. The phone includes 32GB of onboard storage which can be further expanded up to 128GB using a microSD card. Nokia has promised swift software updates for all its new smartphones.
The Nokia 6 is priced at ₹14,999. Nokia 6 will be available exclusively on Amazon India. The company will hold flash sales where customers will need to register first, and then try their luck on sale days. Registrations for the first flash sale for the Nokia 6 will begin from July 14 on Amazon India.
The Nokia 5 smartphone is the company’s mid-level offering. The smartphone features a 5.2-inch full HD display and is powered by Snapdragon 430 processor, supported by 2GB of RAM. The onboard storage is 16GB which can be extended up to 128GB using a microSD card. The Nokia 5 will run Android 7.1.1 out of the box. It comes with a 13MP primary camera and an 8MP front-facing camera. Both Nokia 5 and Nokia 6 will support 4G LTE networks in India.
The Nokia 5 will be priced at ₹12,899 in India. Nokia 5 will go up for pre-orders starting 7 July and will be available exclusively at offline retail stores. This means you won’t be able to buy the Nokia 5 online, at least not initially.
The Nokia 3 smartphone is the company’s cheapest smartphone that was announced today. The budget smartphone runs Android 7.0 out of the box and is powered by a 1.3GHz quad-core MediaTek SoC (system on a chip). It comes with 16GB of storage and supports a microSD card up to 128GB. It includes 8MP cameras at the front as well as the back. It features a 5-inch display. The Nokia 3 also looks pretty decent for a phone in this price segment.
The Nokia 3 is priced at ₹9,499 in India. It will be available starting June 16. Nokia 3 will also be exclusively available at offline retail stores only. That’s quite an interesting move.
Nokia is an iconic brand, or should we say was an iconic brand in India. People in India associate Nokia with building mobile phones that last very long, offer great support and are priced reasonably. HMD Global will need to make sure its vision resonates with what Indian smartphone customers expect from the Nokia brand.
The biggest rivals in the smartphone market for Nokia would be the likes of Xiaomi, Oppo, Huawei, Samsung, and just about any Android smartphone manufacturer. The Android smartphone market is extremely crowded and the competition is cut-throat. It is going to be very hard for Nokia to make its mark.
Nokia’s idea to sell its new smartphones via flash sales online seems like a good choice. It will help the company test the waters before it starts making bigger bets on some smartphones. Nokia also announced that it will be having a strong offline presence as well with 400 exclusive distributors across the country coupled with presence at over 80,000 offline retail stores. That could be a major plus point for Nokia in India. Nokia will also be making all its smartphones in India.


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Kohl’s has expanded its new self-pickup service to its entire 1,100-store footprint nationwide, the Menomonee Falls-based retailer announced Wednesday.
The service offers a “hassle-free” alternative to its existing in-store pickup service, allowing shoppers to pick up eligible online orders within two hours without waiting in line, the company said in a news release.
Shoppers who select “In-Store Pickup” for their online order will receive a “Ready for Pickup” email that will specify if the order will be found in the designated Self-Pickup area. Customers will then be directed to the area within the store for a quick email-guided pickup process, according to the release.
“Our teams have been working hard to ensure Kohl’s Self-Pickup service was available for all of our customers ahead of the holiday rush,” said Siobhán Mc Feeney, Kohl’s chief technology officer. “At Kohl’s, we’re focused on listening to what shoppers want, and using technology to make it as easy as possible for families to get everything they need quickly, and through a simple experience.”
The national rollout of the self-pickup service is part of the retailer’s ongoing shift from brick and mortar to omnichannel, a model that combines the traditional in-store shopping experience with modern-day e-commerce. The initiative and others such as “same-day buy online, pickup in-store,” free curbside pick-up and Amazon returns are not only convenient for customers, but they also drive store traffic as well as cut shipping costs and help manage inventory.
As consumers shift their shopping habits, Kohl’s has continued to leverage technology – like the Kohl’s mobile app and Kohl’s pay – and new partnerships – like Sephora shop-in-shops- in an attempt to keep people coming through the door and keep its store base profitable.
The company is even experimenting with various store formats and sizes, with plans to open 100 small-format locations Kohl’s over the next four to five years in markets considered too small to support the typical 80,000-square-foot full-size Kohl’s store. That includes downtown Milwaukee, where a Kohl’s store is slated to open next year in the former Boston Store space on West Wisconsin Avenue.


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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said it is investigating a multistate outbreak of hepatitis A illnesses linked to fresh blackberries sold at Lakes Ventures, LLC dba Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, a 77-unit organic and specialty discount retailer in the Midwest.
The agency said six of the 11 people infected with hep A have been hospitalized.
Downers Grove, Ill.-based Fresh Thyme, founded in 2012, has recalled all fresh berries that came from a distribution center serving its stores in the 11 states it operates including Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
The CDC said based on the epidemiological information collected in the investigation, ill patients reported consuming fresh conventional blackberries from Fresh Thyme Farmers Market stores in three states: Indiana, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
The agency said people should not eat any fresh conventional blackberries from Fresh Thyme if purchased between Sept. 9-30.
In related news, the CDC said it is also investigating an eight-state outbreak of E. coli infections linked to Ready Pac Bistro Bowl Chicken Caesar Salads.
So far, 17 people have been infected, with seven hospitalizations reported, including two people who have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. The infections were reported in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Maryland, Montana, Washington, and Wisconsin.
The Maryland Department of Health identified E. coli O157 in an unopened package of Ready Pac Bistro Bowl Chicken Caesar Salad collected from a sick person’s home in Maryland.


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This Phone Battery Lasts For 400 Years, Where's The Headphone Socket?
| Last updated
A student has accidentally stumbled across the invention that could save 2016.
Mya Le Thai is currently studying for her PhD at the University of California. She and her team were looking at how to design better nanowires for use in normal rechargeable batteries, reports Business Insider.
While testing, Mya realised that she had accidentally made a battery that can last for 400 years. I swear to God.
If this goes into mass-production, our lives will change forever. No longer will you have to carry a charging cable everywhere you go. Looking for somewhere to sit in Costa Coffee which happens to be near a plug socket? Forget about it. How about those times your charger only works when you wrap it around the phone three times? NO WORRIES FOR YOU, MY FRIEND. You'll be dead four times over by the time this little beauty packs in.
The battery is basically nanowires made of gold and embedded in a special electrolyte gel. After intense testing, the team realised that the battery survived 200,000 charge cycles in three months. Not only that, but it didn't lose any performance.
What does that mean for us? Basically, that the battery could charge a mobile phone or laptop for 400 years. So 399 years after they're out of date anyway.
Reginald Penner, leader of the chemistry faculty of the University, said: "That was crazy. Usually these batteries decline rapidly after only five or six thousand cycles, seven thousand at the most."
They still don't quite understand why the gold and gel works this way. And, as we know, gold is pretty expensive so they're currently looking at alternatives. So don't throw your portable charger out just yet.
Featured image credit: NBC


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Sony and FIFA announced today they would be producing the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 3D. Using Sony 3D cameras, FIFA will cover up to 25 matches of the FIFA World Cup hosted by South Africa in 2010. Sony intends to release the official 3D film on Blu-ray Disc, although 3D specification of BD is still underway.
Trailers for the 3D film will be viewable in “Fan Fest” areas located in 7 cities worldwide including Berlin, London, Mexico City, Paris, Rio De Janeiro, Rome, and Sydney. Retail outlets including Sony stores will also display the promotional 3D trailers.
Sony says throughout 2010 they will be integrating 3D compatibility into many of their products including BRAVIA HDTVs, Blu-ray recorders and players, Playstation 3 and VAIO notebooks.
“The transition to 3D is underway, and, we, at Sony, intend to be leaders in every aspect,” said Sir Howard Stringer, Chairman, CEO and President of Sony Corporation.
“The news that the FIFA World Cup will be filmed in 3D for the first time will certainly increase the uptake rate of 3D TVs in the home and develop the installed base earlier than would otherwise have been the case,” said Tom Morrod, Senior Analyst, TV Technology at Screen Digest.


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By DAVID FORSTROM
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, flowers, chocolates and jewelry are bound to be the traditional gifts of choice.
But is that what mothers really want? Few, besides moms, know the answer to that question.
“Flowers are nice and I enjoy getting them, but that may not always be what I want,” said Mary Palmer, a mother of five children. “Sometimes its the little things that count, and nothing tangible.”
Several BYU students said they don’t know what their mothers want and aren’t sure why they bought certain Mother’s Day gifts.
“I think it’s just habit or the traditional thing to do. I just buy flowers and a card every year, and don’t even think about it,” said Clifton Dukes, a junior from Zebulon, Ga, majoring in Spanish.
Dave Ward, 26, of Salt Lake City, said he agrees that flowers are a great gift.
“I think most people feel pretty safe getting flowers or jewelry because they’re the classic gifts,” Ward said.
To some mothers it is not the gift or its value that matters, but the day, and what it means to them.
Instead of the scent of beautiful roses, the rich taste of chocolate or the sparkle of new jewelry, other Mother’s Day gifts can express love without price tags.
Such gifts involve acts of service, not dollar amounts. Some mothers have found that gifts from the heart, rather than the wallet, are most rewarding.
“A massage, a break from the children or even breakfast in bed would all be quite nice,” said Debbie Smart of Boise, who is a mother of six children.
Bart Bingham, 23, a junior from Carey, Idaho majoring in history, likes to give his mom meaningful gifts.
“I always give my mom a nice card with a note in it saying I’ll do something special for her,” Bingham said. “Flowers eventually die, but the memory of doing something she really wanted stays with you forever.”
One mother said she wanted a break from motherhood on Mother’s Day.
“All I want is some time alone with my husband,” said Theresa McCumby, a mother of two children.


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A Worcester organization that supports thousands of local veterans and their families is asking for help.
Veterans Inc. provides food, clothing and support services for vets around New England. Every year, the group holds a "Stand Down Day” event where veterans gather in one place to receive donated items, health and wellness services, and information about employment and training opportunities.
But this year, there’s a critical shortage of brand new sneakers for men and they need hundreds of pairs.
To address the shortage, Veterans Inc. is holding a community drive and collect brand new men’s sneaker sizes 8 – 12 on Saturday, June 9 at their Worcester location on 69 Grove Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Organizers say inventory of women’s sneakers is in good shape, but very few men’s sizes are available.
New sneakers have always been the most needed item at Stand Down Day and are often the only pair of shoes veterans will get in a year or more.
Visit Veterans Inc. for additional details about the 6/9 Community Sneaker Drive in Worcester and the 13th Annual Stand Down.
© 2019 Cox Media Group.


text: The general insurance company Bajaj Allianz has once again attempted something different with its new ad campaign called ‘Dont’ be a Boo Boo’ executed by WATConsult. The brand has gone the animation way this time around for this particular campaign which looks to educate people about safety precautions to consider while driving. Titled ‘Don’t be a Boo Boo‘, the campaign is designed and conceptualized by WATConsult. The film features Boo Boos, a family of 5 notorious cartoon bear characters who break the traffic rules in a relatable yet funny manner. Referring to the campaign, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, Head -IT, Digital Marketing and Web sales, Sourabh Chatterjee said: “The aim of this campaign is to raise awareness and start a conversation on the serious topic of road safety, in a light hearted and humorous way. We hope that our Don’t be a Boo Boo campaign will be fun to watch and carry home the message on road safety along with the need to follow traffic rules.” The colorful animated characters – who drive their respective vehicles disregarding the traffic rules – end up either paying fines or breaking bones have been made keeping in mind how situations like this occur in everyone’s lives. These characters, along with the Don’t be a Boo Boo song, are being promoted across all social and digital platforms, educating users about Bajaj Allianz Motor insurance features. Speaking on the campaign, WATConsult founder and CEO Rajiv Dingra added: “When team Bajaj Allianz briefed us on the kind of campaign they wanted to execute for road safety, we decided to use a comic tone rather than walking the conventional path. A team at WATConsult worked with complete dedication for the campaign right from sketching the Boo Boo characters to creating the song, to making the full animation video. We hope the campaign goes beyond digital and impacts society at large.” Along with the video, engaging social media posts are being used for promotions, a Dubsmash contest has been planned and a game has been created as a part of the campaign as well.


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The Game Developers Conference is on in San Francisco, and game companies are starting to pull out the major announcements on what's coming to the iPhone in the next year. Here's a roundup of all the titles we've heard mentioned already.
- EA announced a huge lineup of ports from their already popular games: everything from Command and Conquer: Red Alert to SSX to FIFA, Madden, and NBA are all coming in some form to the iPhone. They're also working on bringing over the Wolfenstein RPG and Spore Creatures (which was the DS port of Spore), as well as a big list of casual board games (Scrabble is only the beginning), and versions of Need for Speed: Undercover, and Tiger Woods PGA Tour. And most amazing? All of these are due out before the end of the year. Someone's lighting a fire under iPhone developers at EA.
- id software announced that they're bringing Wolfenstein 3D Classic to the iPhone in an official form -- that one's already been submitted to the store and should be out soon.


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GameStop also plans to introduce its Power Up rewards card to Europe.
Power Up inverts the idea of an accessible, mass market points card we’re used to in the UK and turns being a card-holder into being the member of a special club.
The premium ‘Pro’ version even asks an upfront $15, guaranteeing early access to game betas. International EVP Mike Mauler says it takes inspiration from the very, very powerful loyalty programme” run at GameStop’s French chain Micromania’s and focuses on benefits.
He says most users sign up for the Pro tier – and the majority of users aren’t the vocal minority hardcore.
One thing we were very surprised by was the perception that the majority of our loyalty card members would be hardcore gamers – but the majority aren’t hardcore, it’s mums, grandmas and dads joining up.”
For MCV’s full interview with Mike Mauler, click here.


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Sprint legend Usain Bolt is targeting the Australian food industry with his newest product, Usain's Insane Hot Sauces.
Last month, Bolt launched three hot sauces, inspired by his family recipe. The sauce flavours are original Jamaican spice, mango and three chilli and pineapple and Jamaican spice.
According to reports, the eight-time Olympic gold medallist reached out to Australian chilli farmers late last year in collaboration with Australian supermarket chain Coles to get chilli purees for his sauce.
The launch of Usain Insane Hot Sauces follows on a major contract with the UK-based Casual Dining Restaurants Group to open 15 Tracks & Records restaurants across the United Kingdom over the next five years.
Jamaica-based franchise company FRANJAM, touts Tracks and Records as the first Jamaican-owned restaurant franchise concept to open on an international scale.
Usain Bolt as a key partner, Tracks and Records started operations on Constant Spring Road in Kingston in April 2011 and has since expanded to Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.


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Amadeus analyse search data for 2012 bookings.
Bangkok and New York were the most-searched cities in 2012, according to new research.
Search analysis conducted via Amadeus’ Travel Intelligence solution has revealed that Bangkok was extremely popular with the Russian and German markets last year, while New York was favoured by the British.
During 2012, Germans conducted 263,702 daily searches for Bangkok and 199,910 for New York; Russians made 85,492 daily searches for Bangkok; while Great Britain maintained 157,450 daily searches for New York and 129,129 for Bangkok.
In the United States and Australia, London was a favourite search destination.
When it comes to booking windows, almost 10 percent of searches in the United Kingdom were made a week or less before departure and in Russia the figure was slightly higher, at 12.5 percent.
10 percent of Germany’s online searches were made at least one or two weeks prior to departure, with 7 percent of Australians following suit.
In the United States more than 8 percent of all online searches were made between one and four weeks before the departure date.
The majority of the markets analysed searched for a one or two week trip, however, in the United States holiday bookers searched for a vacation that lasted seven days or less.


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The LG G3 release is coming up for consumers in the United States and around the world. The LG G2’s successor will be a top notch competitor to the biggest names on the market including iPhone 5s and Samsung Galaxy S5. That said, we think there are some devices worth checking out before buying the LG G3.
At the tail end of May, LG confirmed the elephant that had been standing in the room for several weeks prior. The company announced its brand new LG G3, a high-end successor to last year’s surprise hit, the LG G2, and a device that the company hopes will bring it great success in the near year.
The LG G3 comes with a set of impressive features including a 5.5-inch 2560 x 1440 Quad HD display, a new 2.5 GHz Snapdragon 801 quad-core processor with 2GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, as well as a micro-SD slot for expansion.
LG’s new design keeps the buttons on the back of the device but they have been redesigned to be more useful, comfortable, and ergonomic. It will also come with an improved 13 MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization which includes an all-new laser auto focus technology usually reserved for full-scale DSLR cameras. The LG G3 is also in possession of a large 3,000 mAh battery, and it runs on Android 4.4.2 KitKat with a few software tweaks and smart actions provided by LG.
It’s a beautiful package and one that consumers are already weighing against top rivals like the iPhone, the Galaxy S and the HTC One M8, HTC’s brand new flagship Android. We’ve already started receiving questions about the LG G3, which we have in our possession, and about whether it’s going to be worth a purchase.
While we can’t provide a definitive answer quite yet we can tell you about devices that you should be looking at in the build up to the LG G3 release date this summer. Here now are five devices we think consumers need to look at before buying the LG G3. Whether you check them out now or after the LG G3 arrives is entirely up to you.
Samsung Galaxy S5
Maybe the first smartphone that prospective LG G3 buyers should consider is the Samsung Galaxy S5, Samsung's brand new Galaxy S smartphone and a device that packs a powerful punch.
The Galaxy S has been LG's nemesis for quite some time and the Galaxy S5 certainly will give the LG G3 a run for its money thanks to its high-end features which include a spacious 5.1-inch display, speedy processor, fingerprint reader, solid 16MP camera, and a design that's both dust and water resistant.
It runs Samsung's TouchWiz user interface over the top which will offer a different look and a different feature set that we think many consumers are going to like better than LG's setup.
This is a device that can match the LG G3's power and it also matches it in terms of carrier options. Oh, and Amazon is already selling it for $100. That's a pretty steep discount from its usual $199.99 on-contract price.
This article may contain affiliate links. Click here for more details.


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Livescribe's new smartpen aims to move away from being classified as a gadget type product in order to become more of a "high quality writing implement", the company says.
Apple's iOS is closing the gap on rival Android in the US market, according to new statistics released today by Kantar Worldpanel ComTech, which says that the three months that ended in May 2013 saw iOS' share of the American smartphone market grow b...
Apple has seen its share of smartphone sales overtaken by Android devices in recent months, and now, according to a report from a British newspaper, it could be in the process of losing the lead in app downloads as well.
Every week at PC World, we are aiming to bring you a smartphone or tablet app of the week, based on the lovely recommendations by our senior editorial staff.
Apple's iOS-based iPhone continues to be the preferred smartphone for nearly 50% of consumers, with Android the top choice for about one-third of them. The real surprise is evidence that Windows Phone OS now outstrips Android in user satisfaction.
Apple's Tim Cook has kicked back against critics with new iPhones, the Apple Watch and future big business, Apple Pay, but there are some questions for Apple fans:
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India has about 53,000 hotels and 70 lakh restaurants in organised category and 2.3 crore restaurants in unorganised sector, says this apex body of Indian hospitality industry.
Which is the No 1 restaurant in India?
Chef Manish Mehrotra’s Indian Accent has been crowned yet again as India’s best restaurant, with The Bombay Canteen at number 2. The Delhi restaurant was displaced last year by the Mumbai’s favourite restaurant, but has reclaimed its spot at the third edition of Condé Nast Traveller & Himalayan Top Restaurant Awards.
How many restaurants are there in Mumbai?
While Delhi has over 95,000 restaurants and Mumbai has 87,000, the latter contributes the highest in terms of creating employment at 4.28 lakh people followed by 3.01 lakh people in Delhi.
How big is the restaurant industry in India?
The Indian restaurant industry is worth Rs. 75,000 crores and is growing at an annual rate of 7%. The industry is highly fragmented with 1.5 million eating outlets, of which a little more than 3,000 outlets form the organized segment. However, the organized segment is rapidly growing at an annual rate of 16%.
Which is the biggest restaurant in India?
The largest Indian restaurant in the world – Reviews, Photos – Aakash Restaurant – Tripadvisor.
What are restaurants called in India?
A Dhaba is a roadside restaurant in the Indian subcontinent.
Who is the owner of Bombay Canteen?
Sameer Seth (founder and CEO, The Bombay Canteen) started his career as a banker, but soon realized it wasn’t his true love. When he thought about what made him truly happy, it was his food memories with his family.
Which is the best dinner in India?
Now, it’s time to cook some really good food. Here’s a roundup of 15 jaw-dropping Indian recipes that you can cook for your family:
- Lemon Chicken. …
- Chettinad Fish Fry. …
- Guilt-Free Galouti Kebab. …
- Dum Aloo Lakhnawi. …
- Keema Biryani. …
- Dum Paneer Kali Mirch. …
- Shahi Egg Curry. …
- Malabari Prawn Curry.
How many restaurants are there in Bangalore?
There are more than 500 restaurants in the city of Bangalore.
How many restaurants are in China?
According to an influential Chinese catering media, the total number of restaurants, beverage shops, and other catering outlets in China can be estimated at around 6.35 million in 2020.
How many restaurants are in America?
The number of restaurants in the United States reached a total of 660,755 in Spring 2018. This figure increased from the previous period by a little over two percent. The two main categories of restaurants that make up the restaurant count are quick service restaurants (QSR’s) and full service restaurants (FSR’S).
What is a famous restaurant in India?
Bukhara is the world’s most famous Indian restaurant. It’s renowned for its rustic atmosphere, open-fronted kitchen, and delectable Northwest Frontier tandoori cuisine.
How many McDonald’s are there in India?
Celebrating over 12 years of leadership in food service retailing in India, McDonald’s now has a network of over 160 restaurants across the country, with its first restaurant launch way back in 1996.
Which country has the best Indian food?
Indian cuisine enjoys its presence across most of the sampled countries, but it is especially popular in United Kingdom, South Korea, Thailand, Japan, Germany, France and US. Here is a look at the most popular cuisines across the globe and how food translates into soft power for nation-states.


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Besides sharing Konami as an owner, Bomberman and Contra seem pretty far apart. But together they're joining a particular club: video games adapted into board games. IDW Games and Blacklist Games will be developing board games based on Bomberman and Contra after signing a deal with Konami.
The Bomberman series has multiple entries, but 2017's Super Bomberman R was the first one named as a source of inspiration for the Bomberman board game. Jerry Bennington, vice president of new product development at IDW Games, said that a board game for multiple players will apparently be based on Super Bomberman R because its "epic battling and colorful characters translate well." Bennington suggested that the board game adaptation will also meet fan approval.
The Bomberman board game is currently scheduled for release in 2019. According to License Global, other Bomberman-related products are being developed. Given that IDW Games' licensing deal includes global rights to make collectible pins, puzzles, and card games based on Bomberman, any of them could be in development right now.
Additionally, this could be only IDW Games’ first Bomberman board game, and considering the extensive library of previous Bomberman titles, IDW Games could pull from them for more inspiration. Not to mention that Bomberman's characters would be perfect for miniatures on a game board.
Bomberman isn't IDW Games' first announced Konami adaptation. They also have Metal Gear Solid: The Board Game set to launch later this year. Designed by Emerson Matsuuchi (Reef, Specter Ops, Century game series), this Konami-based board game is confirmed to have miniatures.
Blacklist Games will collaborate with Kess Co. to create a cooperative Contra board game. Alex Kessler, founder, and chief executive at Kess Co., said that the upcoming adaptation of Contra will be "an immersive board game."
With plans to include miniatures of Contra characters and card-driven tactics, Blacklist Games and Kess Co. intend to launch the game next year in North America.
This seems to continue a trend Konami started earlier in the summer when they made a licensing deal with Bioworld Merchandising for a fashion line based on Bomberman and Contra.
Do you plan to check out the Bomberman and Contra board games? Do you like it when video games are adapted into board games? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.


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New Delhi: Suzuki Motorcycle India today launched a new variant of its flagship bike Gixxer, priced at Rs 83,439 (ex-showroom Delhi).
The new variant, Gixxer SF comes with full fairing, which has been designed to give maximum wind protection to the rider.
“We are confident that the Gixxer SF too will thrill young buyers across India and further strengthen our market position,” Suzuki Motorcycle India Executive Vice President Atul Gupta told reporters here.
With this launch the company is looking to strengthen its presence in the 150 cc bike segment, he added.
“Young India is driving growth in the 150 cc bike category, a segment which witnessed consistent growth in the motorcycle segment,” Gupta said.
Gixxer SF comes with a 155 cc engine and a five speed gearbox.
The company has sold around 50,000 Gixxer units since its launch last year.
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Rendezvous with sarod genius, Ken Zuckerman at Sawai Gandharwa
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2014 The Global Indian New Network (TGINN)


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(femalefirst.co.uk ) - Cindy Crawford has angered PETA by appearing on the cover of Russian Vogue wearing a fur coat.
The 41-year-old model - who infuriated the animal rights group in 2004 when she agreed to be a spokesperson for their anti-fur campaign before modelling for exclusive mink clothing range Blackglama - has sparked further controversy by gracing the cover of the well-respected fashion magazine sporting fur.
One livid PETA member said: "What a wretched and sad excuse for a human being. I think she's an ugly person and a washed-up, withered, mole-faced hag whose career was over 10 years ago.
"Go away Cindy, no one cares about you anymore. People who wear fur are just disgusting and vile."
Another added: "With that big furry mole on her face, you'd think she'd be more sensitive to the plight of animals. The lives of the animals she wears are like her relationships - short and painful."
PETA are no strangers to causing controversy.
Alicia Silverstone recently caused a stir when she posed naked to promote vegetarianism as part of PETA's goveg.com campaign.