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Netflix releases FAST speed test apps for iOS and Android
Even in today’s internet age, where the majority of users in first world countries are cord cutters, internet speeds lack. And any Netflix addict would know that Internet speed is a huge factor when it comes to having seamless streaming.
Earlier this year Netflix launched Fast.com, a website which allows any internet user to analyze their internet speeds and determine if cord cutting is the right decision for them.
However, Netflix finally realized that a chunk of users are mobile and has released mobile applications for Fast.com.
The apps have been released for Android and iOS and are quite easy to use. The second you open the app it begins a download from the Netflix server, allowing the app to give an instant speed analysis. And if you change connection, it recalculates.
The streaming giant also released a statement on its blog explaining the service, “We continue to monitor, test and perfect fast.com, always with the goal of giving consumers the simplest and most accurate tool possible to measure their current internet performance,”wrote Netflix team members Sergey Fedorov and Ellen Livengood. “We plan to share updates and more details about this exciting tool in future posts.”


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Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Wingz Offers Up $1 Rides To Jumpstart Ride Service In Austin
Wingz, the peer-to-peer, ridesharing service which launched itself into the ridesharing void in Austin last month, says it will be offering up $1 rides for its first time customers in Austin, as part of its push into the market. According to Wingz, the cost of rides wlil be $1 for the first 20 miles, and $2 per mile additional beyond that 20 mile limit. In addition, Wingz said it will donate that $1 fare to local nonprofit Caritas of Austin. Wingz launched itself into the Austin market on May 9th, on the heels of the pullout of Uber and Lyft from the city. Wingz focuses more on pre-scheduled, rather than on-demand rides, from airports, and says it is complying with Austin's fingerprinting requirement. The company is based in San Francisco, and backed by Expedia, Altimeter Capital, and Salesforce.com CEO Marc Benioff.

domain: news


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After decades playing second (and often times third or fourth) fiddle to Microsoft, Apple finally moved to the head of the class yesterday, passing the software behemoth to become the most valuable tech company in the world.
Yesterday, the value of Apple on Wall Street stood at $222.12 billion, a few billion more than Microsoft at $219.18 billion. In addition to making Apple the #1 tech company in terms of total value, it also made the iPhone maker the second-highest American company overall next to Exxon Mobil ($278.64 billion).
What has finally pushed Apple — previously viewed as a niche computer manufacturer — over the top has been the company’s focus on portable personal electronics.
The turnaround started almost a decade ago with the introduction of the iPod — and of course the iTunes store, which has since gone on to sell much more than music.
Then of course came the iPhone, which has added billions in revenue to the Apple coffers since its introduction in 2007. Additionally, Apple has lined its pockets with money from the iPhone (and now iPad) App Store, the only place that users can purchase and download applications for the device.
Explains the NY Times:
And Apple is in the right place at the right time. Although it still sells computers, twice as much revenue is coming from hand-held devices and music. Over all, the technology industry sold about 172 million smartphones last year, compared with 306 million PCs, but smartphone sales grew at a pace five times faster.
Microsoft loudmouth Steve Ballmer pish-poshed the changing of the guard. “No technology company on the planet is more profitable than we are,” he said. “On any given day, the stock market is a voting machine… in the long run is it a weighing machine.”
Apple Passes Microsoft as No. 1 in Tech [NY Times]


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Two million pints down the drain EVERY WEEK: £220,000 of fresh British milk is dumped each day... largely because coronavirus has shut down coffee chains. Worse still? There's a shortage of milk in the shops, writes GUY ADAMS
On Monday, Gary Underwood got out of bed at 3am to bring in his 100-strong herd of Friesian cows from the fields.
By the time the rest of us had finished breakfast, his 'girls', as he likes to call them, had long since been milked and led back out to pasture on the 120-acre patch of countryside near the village of Oulton, in Staffordshire, that has been home to his family for generations.
Two thousand litres of creamy full-fat milk, chilled to a temperature of four degrees, were sitting in a tank in his barn, ready to be collected by the lorry sent daily by Freshways, one of Britain's largest dairy companies.
But the lorry never came.
Gary Underwood (far left) with his family (left to right) Felix, Melissa and Alicia own an 120-acre patch of countryside near the village of Oulton in Staffordshire
Instead, just after noon, Underwood received a curt text message telling him the day's visit was cancelled.
With no extra space to store his product, and the cows in need of milking that evening, Gary and his grown-up daughters Alicia and Melissa had to throw it all away.
A video made by Melissa shows it gushing noisily into a slurry pit.
'It makes you sick to the stomach,' she tells me.
'Never in four generations have we been forced to throw out milk. We won't be paid. It's just gone. Money literally down the drain.
'Dad's 58, he has been committed to this farm his whole life. And, through no fault of his own, he is throw into a situation that could break him.'
Britain's 10,000-odd dairy farmers are being forced to pour away millions of pints of fresh milk. Pictured: Dairy farmer Alicia Underwood and the Friesians whose milk is wasted
The 'situation' is one being experienced across the countryside, where every day hundreds of Britain's 10,000-odd dairy farmers are being forced to pour away millions of pints of fresh milk.
To blame are ructions in the food supply chain caused by the coronavirus emergency, which in a few short weeks has shuttered the pubs, restaurants and coffee shops that normally buy about half of the 40million litres of milk we consume each day.
Suddenly, big companies such as Freshways, which only supplies the food service industry — its clients include Costa Coffee, Starbucks, British Airways, P&O and McDonald's — can't sell their highly perishable product, so their tankers are cancelling visits to the farm gate.
Yet the nation's 1.8 million cows keep on producing milk, morning and night. Some estimates suggest that about 1.5million litres were thrown away on Sunday, when there was also a shortage of lorry drivers due to illness.
'What a waste of all the effort that goes into producing quality food,' was how Wiltshire dairy farmer Robert Mallet described the heartbreaking loss of 17,000 litres of fresh milk.
'My grandmother says this is worse than wartime,' Llyr Griffiths told reporters from his farm in Ceredigion, as he tipped away 11,500 litres.
'At least the countryside could carry on producing food for the war effort and local people back then. But with this, we have no control over anything.'
With no extra space for storage, and the cows in need of milking that evening, the Underwoods were forced to throw the milk away into a slurry pit (pictured)
Meanwhile, in a cruel twist, demand in the retail sector has risen dramatically, so the companies that supply shops which sell milk to us all are struggling to get their hands on enough of it.
This has produced an absurd situation where there are shortages of milk, butter, cream and cheese on some supermarket shelves, just as producers such as Mallet, Griffiths and Underwood — who, like almost all dairy farmers, are under contract to sell only to one company — are pouring thousands of gallons away.
'Our local Aldi is only letting us buy one container of milk per customer, and they are limiting purchases of UHT to four bottles,' says Melissa Underwood, 34.
'I have five children, aged from nine months to 18, so in our house one bottle doesn't go far. It's maddening.'
Robin Betts, who farms a herd of 100 cows on the North Downs in Kent and is contracted to contracted to produce milk for Freshways, lost 3,500 litres in one day
For many dairy farmers, whose industry has for years run on waferthin profit margins, the financial implications are frightening.
'The milk price has been at a historic low, so we are on the edge anyway. And now we can't offload it,' says Robin Betts, who farms a herd of 100 cows on the North Downs in Kent.
'I chucked away 3,500 litres on Sunday. When you have worked so hard, when you are raising these cows and feeding them and getting up before dawn to milk them, it just doesn't sit well to chuck it into a lagoon — not when you then see shortages.
'But it's happening across the country. We have no route to market.'
Betts is also contracted to produce milk for Freshways, which usually pays him between £15,000 and £20,000 a month.
He says it has yet to pay for February's supply, and has changed the payment terms so the cheque for March won't now arrive until mid-May.
Even when its lorry does show up, the company has recently cut the price it pays farmers for milk from 24.5p to about 22p per litre (Freshways did not respond to a request for comment).
Other big companies in a similar position have followed suit, and more are expected to follow.
'I'm spending today trying to work out which of my suppliers I can afford to pay,' adds Betts.
'I'm acting like an interest-free lender to a huge dairy company. Farmers everywhere are. This can't go on.'
Some dairy farmers are already going to the wall. In Wales, Abi Reader, chairwoman of the NFU Cymru dairy board, who keeps a herd of 200 cows in the Vale of Glamorgan, says she knows of two local dairy farms that have gone out of business in the past week.
In the UK as a whole, she says, at least 300 have been forced to tip away milk in the same period. 'Milk is a perishable product and it's coming every day,' she says.
'Cows have to be milked. You can't mothball them, or furlough staff. It just keeps on coming and we still have bills to pay.
'About 20 per cent of farms in Britain have already been affected by a price cut, and more are going to be affected the longer this goes on. It is unsustainable.
'The UK is only 80 per cent self-sufficient in dairy as things stand, and this crisis is showing us how important food security really is.'
Ironically, supermarket supply problems are worse in rural areas — which means people who live near farms that are having to throw milk away are less likely to be able to find any in the shops.
'I was bringing the girls in last night and a neighbour called across the hedge: "Where's the milk gone?" She'd been to the local Tesco and there was no butter, no milk and only the odd bit of cheese,' says Steven Evans, who keeps a 450-strong herd in Pembrokeshire.
'I know one farmer who is losing £10,500 worth of milk a day. We think about a million litres are currently going to waste, every single day.'
At 22p a litre, that equates to about £1.5 million of milk being wasted a week.
'It's being tipped into slurry pits, literally going down the drain,' Evans adds.
'It isn't just a crisis of farmers. When you think of the businesses that rely on us — the vets the feed companies, the tractor firms, the seed companies, hauliers.
The amount of money riding on this industry is huge — and when farmers suffer or are put out of business, the effects will be felt right down the economy.'
Scarily, the medium-term outlook for dairy farming is worse still. In the first days of the coronavirus crisis, panic-buying led to a rise in retail milk sales of about a fifth.
Now stockpiling has stopped, retail sales have stabilised at roughly 7 per cent above pre-crisis levels — not nearly enough to compensate for the loss in trade to restaurants, pubs and other food service buyers.
The recent spell of sunny weather has heralded the arrival of spring, when grass-fed cows hit peak production.
'The more sun we get, the more milk they produce,' says Ian Potter, one of Britain's foremost agricultural analysts.
'We already have surplus milk swashing around the system. The price of cream has collapsed. In the space of four days, over last weekend, it went from £1.05 per kilo to 85p. To a processor, that knocks off about 2p of income from every litre of milk.'
On the spot market, which is effectively the open market on which commodities are traded, milk usually trades for between 25p and 30p a litre. Last weekend it hit 7p — and on Tuesday the price was 5p.
'Given that's a delivered price, which includes transport costs of 2-3p, milk is worth almost nothing,' adds Potter.
'As of today, we simply don't have demand for the milk that's available.
'Things are going to get much worse for this industry and everyone who relies on it.'
Yesterday, Muller, one of Britain's biggest dairy firms, instructed its farmers to reduce their daily supply by 3 per cent, in an attempt to rebalance supply and demand.
The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers has called for a financial support scheme to be introduced straight away for the 300-odd farmers it believes are at immediate risk of going under.
Others believe this looming crisis shows the degree to which the entire milk market has become dysfunctional.
In Britain and elsewhere (milkdumping is also taking place in the U.S. and across Europe), the industry is dominated by a small number of large dairy firms, which are themselves at the mercy of rapacious supermarket giants.
Consumers have grown accustomed to paying just over £1 for a four-pint carton of milk, making profit margins wafer-thin at every level of the supply chain.
'It is absurd that poor old farmers are effectively pouring milk into a ditch, while consumers are having trouble getting hold of it,' says shadow farming minister Daniel Zeichner.
'One of the reasons they can't get it to people who want it is that the way the market is organised has failed. When we come out of this, a lot of people are going to be asking serious questions about the food production system.'
Back on his Staffordshire farm, Gary Underwood has simpler priorities at the moment.
He is just praying that today a lorry will arrive at his gate.
'Dad gets up at 3am and works till 7pm, and apart from a week's holiday each year, he never has a day off,' says Melissa.
'It doesn't matter how sick or busy he is, he'll be out there every single morning, trying to keep the country fed.
'Like every member of the family from my great-grandfather downwards, he has worked hard to build this farm up. If things don't get better, he could lose it.'
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Fury over 'racist' Playmobil pirate ship toy that comes with a black character wearing a SLAVE COLLAR
- Ida Lockett was incensed after five-year-old son got given contentious toy
- Pirate ship comes with black character that has neck shackle accessory
- Lockett said the toy is 'definitely racist', and took it from her son
- Playmobil said the character is a former slave, and that toy depicts history
A mother is furious after finding out that a Playmobil pirate ship given to her son as a gift comes with a black character wearing a slave collar.
The plastic vessel, given to Ida Lockett's son for his fifth birthday, features a bedraggled, black-skinned plastic man as one of its four characters.
It also includes a vicious-looking steel-grey shackle, and instructions with the toy say to put it around the black figurine's neck.
Shackled: A mother from Sacramento, California, is furious after her son was given a Playmobil toy featuring a character wearing a slave collar, shown above in promotional art
'Racist toy': Darren Lockett, five, was given the toy for his birthday. He is pictured above in tears after finding out his mother is taking it back because of its apparent racial connotations
The boat also comes with a prison-style area below-decks which has replica metal bars that can be drawn across it.
When Lockett gave the ship to her son Darren, she said she did not realize exactly what the $90 toy contained - and was horrified to see him apparently recreating the act of enslavement.
Incensed: Ida Lockett said the toy is 'definitely racist' and returned it to the store
Lockett, from Sacramento, California, spoke to local news station CBS13 about the toy, insisting that it is 'definitely racist'.
However, after the controversy emerged, Playmobil hit back by claiming that the toy is only a former slave, and that the ship is an accurate historical representation of the high seas in the Seventeenth Century.
A spokesman for Playmobil, a German-owned toy company, told MailOnline: 'This piece is designed to depict life on a 17th-century pirate ship on the high seas.
'If you look at the box, you can see that the pirate figure is clearly a crew member on the pirate ship and not a captive.
'The figure was meant to represent a pirate who was a former slave in a historical context. It was not our intention to offend anyone in any way.'
Lockett rejected any suggestion that the toy was not a direct depiction of slavery. She said: 'You cannot have this specific accessory and call it anything else... It’s definitely racist.
'It told my son to put a slave cuff around the black character’s neck, and then to play with the toy.'
After realizing what the toy contained, she took it back to the store, despite Darren's protests.
A spokesman for the local NAACP branch agreed, saying the toy should be taken off the shelves.
Instructions: These printed instructions, which came with the toy, show children how to attached the collar round the black figure's neck
'Historical context': Playmobil claims the character, pictured on on top of a mast, is a former slave and that the design of the toy is meant to be an accurate reflection of 1600s seafaring
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JAST USA Is Holding a Halloween Sale
Treat yourself to some sweet discounts on eroge during JAST USA’s Halloween Sale.
JAST USA Summer Sale 2021 Has Begun
Over one hundred titles are available at discounted prices during JAST USA’s Summer Sale of 2021.
JAST USA's Winter Sale Is Going on Now
As the holidays come to a close and a new year begins, JAST USA is bringing us their 2020 Winter Sale.
The Denpasoft Autumn Sale Has Begun
Danpasoft’s Autumn Sale is now in full swing, offering a large amount of adult media at reduced prices from November 25th to December 1st.
Denpasoft Halloween Sale 2020 Has Begun
Denpasoft has joined the Halloween sales period with its own spooky offerings for 2020's Halloween season.
Denpasoft Summer Sale Has Begun
Denpasoft takes part in the summer festivities with their own summer sale, discounting most of their library.
The JAST USA Summer Sale has Begun
Get the most out of the summer season by getting hot and sweaty with the annual JAST USA Summer Sale.
Denpasoft Winter Sale Has Begun
Denpasoft has begun their holiday sale with discounts of up to 80% on a number of their titles.
Denpasoft Holds a Week-Long Sale of Western Visual Novels
Visual novel publisher and localizing firm Denpasoft has organized a sale featuring natively English visual novels.
Denpasoft's Summer Sale Brings Bountiful Discounts
Before busting out your swimsuits, you can bust out your wallets in Denpasoft’s Summer Sale.


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Most of us will be thinking of sweet ways to celebrate the most romantic day of the year….however fashion students at American InterContinental University (AIU) are giving their own twist to Valentine's Day.
Design by AIU London Fashion Design Graduate Padraic Crowley
'My Dark Valentine' provides a dramatic gothic noir take on romance, where the students will stage a live photographic fashion shoot in the AIU London front window. The event will take place tomorrow (Feb 14) between 2-5pm at the university at 110 Marylebone High Street.
A cross between a fashion display and art installation, Marylebone businesses Electric Hairdressing London and The Session School have offered hair and makeup support to the university’s Fashion Event Management class.
The event also supports Cancer Research UK. Clothing used in the show was donated by the charity's shop at 24 Marylebone High Street. Donations to the charity will be collected during the event and the costumes will be available to buy in the Cancer Research UK shop the following day.
Electric Hairdressing will also provide a Cut, Colour and Style makeover worth £250. For a chance to win donate £5 to enter the special fund-raising auction.
Several of AIU's talented fashion students have gone on to win Sky 1's Project Runway and have successfully carved careers at Matthew Williamson, Burberry and Vivienne Westwood London.
Follow the event news on Twitter using #MyDarkValentine.


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Sept. 10, 2004
By the Pleasanton Weekly
A former advertising director has filed a lawsuit against ANG Newspapers, publisher of the Tri-Valley Herald and other newspapers, and two of its former executives claiming that their “Best of” awards competition “was for years a massive hoax.”
In his complaint, filed in Alameda County Superior Court, David Marin states that he was fired in March 2003, allegedly for reasons not related to the “Best of” contest, but less than a year after he was promoted to Director of Advertising at ANG and uncovered the deception.
The lawsuit, filed by Attorney David Hosilyk of the Half Moon Bay law firm of Fine, Boggs, Cope and Perkins, names as defendants ANG Newspapers, Michael Lynch and Colleen Brewer. Lynch was Executive Vice President of Advertising and Marketing for ANG Newspapers, and Brewer was the company’s advertising executive responsible for handling the “Best of” contest. Neither Lynch nor Brewer is now employed by ANG.
Marin states that before he took over as Advertising Director, “the readers, the public and advertisers were being defrauded.”
“The true winner of the poll would not necessarily be awarded the ‘Best of’ designation, but rather the business that spent the most, or was likely to spend the most on advertising was given the award instead,” the lawsuit states. “This resulted in false advertising and a fraud being perpetrated on advertisers, readers and the general public for the personal financial gain of Brewer and the financial gain of the other defendants.”
Marin states in the complaint that ANG Newspapers “defrauded the general public, readers (consumers and subscribers) and advertisers by rigging the results of the ‘Best of’ poll” and that its action “constitutes unfair and/or fraudulent business practices.”
The lawsuit also claims that when Marin became Advertising Director, “he ended this fraud upon the public, insisting that his department would run an honest ‘Best of’ contest.” However, Marin believed that his repudiation of Brewer’s past practices caused her to feel animosity toward him and was a motivating factor in his termination the following year.
Marin also claimed that Lynch, as well as ANG and its managing agents, was aware of the fraud and “condoned it and ratified it.”
The lawsuit seeks an injunction ordering ANG Newspapers “to cease engaging in unfair and/or deceptive business practices and should be ordered to publish retractions and announcements of its fraud and to publish the true winners of the ‘Best of’ contests.”
John Schueler, ANG’s president and publisher, said there is no basis for Marin’s suit and his comments are without merit.
“We’ve been doing ‘Best of’ for quite a number of years,” Schueler said. “It’s a fair and unique program and his (Marin’s) allegations that winners are picked solely because they’re advertisers does not appear to be true at all. The documentation I’ve seen show that many of the votes that came in were counted by a third party and that there were winners who were not advertisers.”
(c) 2004, Embarcadero Publishing Co.


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California-based global provider of collaborative communications solutions, Free Conferencing Corporation, recently launched its flagship product, FreeConferenceCall.com, in Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa.
The company has confirmed that it will focus on its digital acquisition methodology, SMS and fixed/mobile operators to build awareness and secure the required critical mass to establish a firm footprint in Africa.
According to the company while the collaborative communications market in Africa is in its early stages of development, the technology and tools represent a game-changer for local communities and businesses.
The IDG Enterprise 2015 Unified Communications & Collaboration Study has found that 56% of large- and 66% of SME organisations plan to implement or upgrade UC & C solutions within the next year.
Stefan Mayer, managing director at Corporate AV Integration, referenced this Study and has also said that South African companies are becoming particularly interested in videoconferencing and telepresence elements of unified communications.
Josh Lowenthal, chief operating officer of FreeConferenceCall.com, says all indicators point to massive growth in Africa in the near future. "At the end of the day, there are only a few true applications in voice, and conferencing is a killer voice application. The PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) remains the ubiquitous, highest-quality media for voice, and will remain so for at least the next decade and quite possibly beyond."
The company expects consumer rates/ bundles for voice dropping quickly. "The combination of this phenomena mean people will want to do more with their phone plans, and group calling for business or social reasons is a huge offering ,"Lowenthal continues.
He adds that establishing partnerships with the carrier community is the foundation of the business. "We offer a no-lose mechanism for regional fixed and mobile operators to bolster voice traffic using existing infrastructure."
Leaning on user data in real-time is also part of the company's market strategy. "For example, if a USA conference organiser hosts a call with Nigerian participants and those Nigerian participants use the USA access number, we immediately notify that host that the participants may use our local Nigerian access number instead," says Lowenthal.
While the company has outlined its strategy, the ability to sustain itself within competitive regions in Africa will depend on how quickly it is able to address challenges.
The company believes there is a need to expand from what it describes as simply audio conferencing to include screen sharing and video collaboration. "We further want to enable FreeConferenceCall.com users to personalise their conferencing experience, from custom hold music, personalised greetings, and Meeting Walls for those that use screen sharing."
Going forward the emphasis will be on collaboration and the strategic use of tools to ease communication.
The company has selected 55 countries to launch services in, on a country-by-country basis, with an evaluation of regulatory environments, available network infrastructure and potential users.


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Riot Games has partnered with Luxury fashion giant Louis Vuitton (LV) – a very non-endemic sponsor (i.e. one that does not come from a gaming-related company) – who is banking on the popularity of esports to push its brand into LoL audiences.
LV’s first ever Esports deal is of a global nature and the maison has already announced some innovative integration initiatives. Firstly, the company will manufacture a bespoke luggage trunk to hold the Summoner’s Cup, the trophy awarded to the winners of the tournament. The French brand has a history of creating trunks for trophies awarded at major sporting events such as the French Open, America’s Cup and FIFA World Cup.
The collaboration will also extend into the game itself. Nicolas Ghesquiere, Louis Vuitton’s artistic director for women’s collections, will be designing a series of in-game character skins along with a clothing capsule collection. Both the skins and the trophy trunk will be revealed at some point during the month-long world championships (October-November 2019. Paris).
Naz Aletaha, head of global esports partnerships at Riot Games, said, “This is a historic partnership that speaks to the impact Riot Games and League of Legends has had on the industry over the past nine esports seasons. We welcome the LV brand to our sport and we are eager to share the entire scope of the partnership in the months ahead.”
The move comes in at a time when apparel brands – namely the likes of Nike, Adidas and Li-Ning – are increasingly backing esports platforms as they aim to engage and reach millennials and Gen Z-ers.
While LV’s move might seem left-field to the casual observer, but LoL has some compelling attributes:
The French brand – like many early brand adopters right now – is looking at the long game and looking at the next generation of consumers. It has dabbled in the gaming world for inspiration before, making Lightning—the heroine from the cult video game Final Fantasy XIII— a model for a brand campaign in 2016.


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Mexico’s government will speak with agriculture industry representatives.
Although we’ve all seen photos of emaciated children from Africa on TV, that is but one type of poor nutrition faced by people not only in developing countries but also in the developed world. Read moreRead More »
China vowed to fightback against the Trump administration’s plans to impose tariffs on an additional $200 billion in Chinese goods, escalating a trade war between the world’s two biggest economies. Read moreRead More »


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Goa government to sell onions to ration card holders at Rs 32 per kg
The Goa government is set to procure 1,045 metric tonnes of onion from an agency in Maharashtra’s Nashik district and supply the staple to 3.5 lakh ration card holders at a subsidised rate, a senior official said on Saturday.
The state cabinet had on Wednesday approved a proposal to provide onions at a subsidised rate after the price of the commodity increased substantially.
“The Goa government has ordered 1,045 metric tonnes of onion from Nashik-based National Agriculture Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) and the staple will be provided to all ration card holders,” said Siddhivinayak Naik, director of the state Civil Supplies Department.
A total of 3.5 lakh ration card holders would be provided 3 kgs of onion each at Rs 32 per kg by holding a special drive across all fair price shops, the official said.
Once the stock starts arriving in the state, consumers will be informed through advertisements, text messages, and social media, so that they can buy it from their respective fair price shops, Naik added.


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Concern for the environment, sustainability and the circular economy is a global trend with no going back.
Nowadays, governments and customers alike are demanding products and services from companies that are geared towards better technical efficiency and greater economic sustainability.
Countries such as the US, Germany, Colombia, Brazil and Spain, to name but a few, have already adopted incentive policies and even the mandatory use of asphalts containing tyre powder. In turn, these policies are being copied in other countries, such as Chile and Portugal.
RARx has led to the belief that all asphalts can be manufactured using tire powder and anywhere in the world. Furthermore, in a very short time, it has consolidated its position as a product truly at the forefront of the industry.


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Venezuela’s crackdown on retailers pushes big money to Florida
Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro’s crackdown on retailers has increased the urgency for Venezuelan business owners to move their money to South Florida, if they’re able to, the South Florida Business Journal reports.
The government takeovers of businesses started under late President Hugo Chavez, and that contributed to major flight capital and immigration to South Florida. Now it appears to be accelerating under Maduro. Venezuelan soldiers recently seized the Daka electronics chain because the government said their prices were too high. Five store managers are being prosecuted for "unjustified" price increases.
Other retailers are being investigated for their prices. It appears they must either lower them, or face a fate similar to Daka.
Check out this video posted by Hoy Noticias. That’s not Black Friday shopping. Those are looters in Venezuela cleaning out an unguarded Daka electronics store.
This is going on at a time of 54 percent annual inflation in Venezuela, meaning bolivars left in bank accounts there are rapidly losing value. Many household goods are in short supply, including milk, sugar and even toilet paper.
Like much of what happens in Latin America, this economic crisis has a ripple effect on Florida’s shores.
To read more, click here.
Brian Bandell covers banking, finance, health care and education. Get the latest banking industry news here.
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A look at the day's business stories from media outlets around Orlando


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Those fur-trimmed parkas so common on city sidewalks have become a boon to backwoods trappers.
Coyote fur pelts are in big demand to provide the lush, silvery or tawny-tinged arcs of fur on the hoods on Canada Goose coats and their many global imitators. A good western coyote, prized for its silky, light-colored fur, can fetch more than $100. The top price at a recent Colorado auction hit $170, a 40 percent increase from four years ago.
"Coyotes are hot," says John Hughes, a longtime buyer at J and M Furs in Roundup, Montana, "and it's all due to the trim trade."
Late fall and early winter are the prime trapping time, when coyote coats are at their fullest, but a lot of the selling happens in late winter. Fur is sold at big auction houses in Canada, by individual fur buyers across North America and at local auctions near where the animals roam. At one such auction in a VFW hall in the upstate New York town of Herkimer, tables were piled high with the furs of hundreds of muskrats, beavers, fishers, mink, red fox, gray fox, otters, bobcats and coyotes.
"They like the white-belly coyotes, something like this, the whiter belly," says John Rutherford, a trapper and hunter, showing a lush, long-haired coyotes.
Fur experts say the uptick in coyote demand began with Canada Goose parkas, with their distinctive Arctic Circle patch, a brand that went big in 2013 when model Kate Upton famously wore one over her bikini on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit Issue. Over the years, more celebrities and their fashion-conscious followers began donning the parkas, which now can retail for more than $1,000 each.
"Canada Goose is always the name that people relate to, but there are so many other brands that make similar coats," says Mark Downey, CEO of Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. of North Bay, Ontario. "Basically, it's just a coyote trim ruff that goes around the hood of all those kinds of coats."
U.S. & World
Downey suspects the bull market for coyote will continue. North American Fur Auctions was similarly optimistic in a November web posting, saying the trim business continues to be in full fashion with Canada Goose being the major taker.
Toronto-based Canada Goose did not respond to requests for comment.
The hot market for coyotes comes as trappers deal with recent economic slumps in China and Russia, competition from ranched fur and the intense ire of animal welfare activists, who consider the popular steel leg-hold traps particularly cruel.
Coyote trappers see themselves as sportsmen helping control populations of a ubiquitous animal often considered a nuisance. Coyotes have been spotted from the streets of Los Angeles to Manhattan's Central Park. Farmers view them as chicken poachers, and suburban residents see them as threats to their pets.
To trappers, coyotes are one of the few money-making animals, along with bobcats and a few others.
"It is the one bright spot in most of the country," says Dave Linkhart, of the National Trappers Association.
Hughes will pay trappers an average of $75 to $105 and as much as $120 for a western coyote. He sells to operations that create trim strips, which sells to garment makers.
"The coyotes that we have here in Montana are probably the best coyotes in the world for trim," Hughes said. "They're heavy, so the hair stands up for the trim, and they're pale."
He handles an average of 10,000 coyotes annually, though the numbers are down for western coyotes this year. Some blame early-season snow in Canada and the western United States, which made it harder for trappers to get out. Others believe there are simply fewer western coyotes this winter.
Either way, Downey said, "there's not enough western coyotes to go around," increasing demand on eastern coyotes, which tend to have coarser fur.
At the Herkimer auction, eastern coyotes tended to sell for $19 to $46. Rutherford made more than $200 for seven coyote furs.
"Coyotes are going to move," he says. "Good-quality coyotes are going to sell."


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Islamabad: Explosives shipment from China intercepted, importer escapes
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Customs has intercepted a shipment of explosive materials, fireworks and crackers from China and have seized a full container load of 24 tonnes while the importer and the clearing agent have escaped.
Authorities told The News here on Saturday that Collectorate of Pakistan Customs Computerised System (PACCS), Karachi found that the explosives were declared to be door locks imported from China for M/s China Hardware Company, Lahore.
The PACCS authorities explained to The News that the importers determined their liability for assessment of duty & taxes as provided under Section 79 of the Customs Act, 1969 and paid an amount of Rs.05 million customs duty and other taxes.
The consignment was, however, followed and stopped for examination and assessment. The customs staff of Model Collectorate of Customs (MCC) PACCS posted at Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) examined the goods and found out that the container was stuffed with fireworks and crackers which are highly inflammable and their import is prohibited under the Import Policy Order 2010-11.
They further said that a little mishandling at the port could have damaged properties and valuable assets worth million of rupees lying at the port terminal in close proximity. The impounded commodity also fell within the purview of smuggling.
An identical consignment of fireworks and crackers was imported a few years ago and transshipped to dry port Sumbrial, Sialkot where, during examination by the customs staff the goods exploded and caused big damage to human lives including customs officers besides loss of property at Sumbrial.
The Research and Development (R&D Section) of the MCC PACCS has lodged an FIR with Special Judge Customs and Taxation, Karachi and efforts are being made to apprehend the culprits, they concluded.


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Recently, during the month of April, Forever 21 has gotten many fans angered by their design in clothing. The store, which is disliked for ruining their clothing with cliche quotes, released new t-shirts and sweatshirts in their stores this month. Again, these items have their typical words on the front and back of their clothing. What is different about this that is getting fans and consumers angry? Forever 21 has stolen Kanye West’s clothing by using the same font and mimicking his style. Kanye West’s well known The Life of Pablo album was performed this past year, selling clothing merchandise also. This clothing line had a unique font which was called Planet Kosmos. Back in November 2016, Kanye West and Raf Simons both co-signed this font allowing them to use it on clothing together.
After the release of Kanye West’s most recent album, he has been performing it live in 2016 from August to December on various dates. At these venues, he also sold many different clothing which was specific and unique to the album itself. This included a variety of long sleeves, hoodies, sweatshirts and t-shirts. The authentic clothing itself sold on Kanye’s website for very expensive at around 75 dollars for just a t-shirt. On the front or back of the shirts had phrases such as “I feel like Pablo” or “I love you like Kanye loves Kanye.” It was well known for the different font that was not seen on any other clothing. Well, until now it is seen on cheap Forever 21 shirts that ripped off Kanye West.
This is not the first time that Forever 21 has stolen other people’s ideas, or plagiarized, on their own clothing. This has been repeated many times in the past, and Forever 21 has been called out on social media. For example, in February Forever 21 stole Thrasher’s famous flaming logo. Thrasher is another clothing line directed towards skateboarders. Instead of the flame saying “Thrasher” like it originated, Forever 21 slapped this font on the back of a wind breaker saying “Happiness” instead. This angered the Thrasher company, as they called them out for this on Instagram. This did not recently start happening, as Forever 21 has been doing this for years. In September of 2015, Forever 21 stole drawings from an artist in Oregon, Sam Larson. Many of his small designs have been shared with fans on Instagram, but they started appearing on the clothing of Forever 21 without his approval. Over the years, this company has done this to multiple other artists, which is frustrating to most.


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Malls have been a staple of the American shopping experience for decades, but in recent years, they have been struggling to stay afloat. The rise of online shopping, changing consumer habits, and the economic downturn have all contributed to the decline of malls across the country. As a result, many malls are closing their doors and leaving behind empty spaces that were once bustling with shoppers. This article will explore why malls are dying and what can be done to save them.
The Impact of Online Shopping on the Decline of Malls
The rise of online shopping has had a significant impact on the decline of malls. As more and more consumers turn to the convenience of online shopping, traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been forced to close their doors. This shift in consumer behavior has caused a ripple effect throughout the retail industry, resulting in a decrease in foot traffic at malls across the country.
The primary reason for the decline of malls is the ease and convenience of online shopping. Consumers no longer need to leave their homes to purchase items; instead, they can shop from the comfort of their own living rooms. Online retailers offer a wide selection of products, often at lower prices than those found in physical stores. Additionally, many online retailers offer free shipping and returns, making it even easier for customers to purchase items without ever leaving their homes.
The decline of malls has also been exacerbated by the changing preferences of younger generations. Millennials and Generation Z are less likely to visit malls than previous generations, preferring to shop online or in smaller, boutique stores. These shoppers are drawn to the unique experiences offered by online retailers, such as personalized product recommendations and interactive shopping experiences.
Finally, the rise of e-commerce has led to an increase in competition among retailers. With so many online retailers vying for customers’ attention, traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been unable to keep up. This has resulted in fewer shoppers visiting malls, leading to a decrease in sales and ultimately, store closures.
In conclusion, the rise of online shopping has had a profound impact on the decline of malls. With the convenience of online shopping, changing consumer preferences, and increased competition, traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been unable to compete. As a result, malls across the country have seen a decrease in foot traffic and sales, leading to store closures and the eventual demise of the mall as we know it.
How Technology is Changing the Way We Shop and Why Malls are Struggling to Keep Up
The retail industry is undergoing a dramatic transformation due to the emergence of new technologies. The traditional shopping mall model is struggling to keep up with the changing landscape, as consumers are increasingly turning to online and mobile platforms for their shopping needs.
The rise of e-commerce has had a profound impact on the retail sector. Online retailers offer convenience, competitive pricing, and a wide selection of products that can be delivered directly to the consumer’s doorstep. This has led to a shift in consumer behavior, with more shoppers opting to purchase items online rather than visiting physical stores.
In addition, the proliferation of mobile devices has enabled shoppers to compare prices and shop from anywhere at any time. This has further eroded the appeal of traditional brick-and-mortar stores, as shoppers no longer need to visit a store to make a purchase.
To remain competitive, malls must embrace technology and adapt to the changing landscape. This means offering an integrated online and offline shopping experience, leveraging digital marketing strategies to reach customers, and utilizing data analytics to better understand customer preferences and behaviors.
Malls must also focus on creating unique experiences that cannot be replicated online. This could include hosting events, offering interactive activities, or providing personalized services. By creating an engaging and immersive environment, malls can differentiate themselves from online retailers and attract customers.
Ultimately, technology is transforming the way we shop, and malls must evolve to stay relevant. By embracing technology and creating unique experiences, malls can remain competitive and continue to thrive in the digital age.
Examining the Reasons Behind the Death of the Mall
The death of the mall has been a topic of discussion for some time now. While there are many factors that have contributed to the decline of the mall, there are three primary reasons that stand out as the most significant.
First, the rise of online shopping has had a major impact on the mall. With the convenience of shopping from home and the ability to compare prices quickly, more and more people are choosing to shop online instead of going to the mall. This has resulted in fewer customers visiting the mall, leading to decreased sales and ultimately, the closure of many stores.
Second, the changing demographics of shoppers has also played a role in the death of the mall. As younger generations become more tech-savvy, they are less likely to visit the mall and more likely to shop online. Additionally, the increasing cost of living has made it difficult for many people to afford the items available at the mall, leading them to look for cheaper alternatives online.
Finally, the emergence of new retail formats such as outlet stores and discount stores has also had an effect on the mall. These stores offer lower prices than traditional malls, making them more attractive to shoppers who are looking for a bargain. This has caused many shoppers to bypass the mall in favor of these other options.
In conclusion, the death of the mall is due to a combination of factors, including the rise of online shopping, changing demographics of shoppers, and the emergence of new retail formats. It is clear that the mall is no longer the go-to destination for shopping that it once was, and it is unlikely that it will ever regain its former status.
What Can Be Done to Revive Dying Malls?
The retail industry is facing a difficult time as malls across the country are struggling to stay afloat. To revive dying malls, there are several strategies that can be implemented.
First, mall owners should focus on creating an experience for shoppers. This could include hosting events such as concerts, art shows, and other activities that will draw people in. Additionally, they should look into partnering with local businesses to create unique offerings that will attract customers.
Second, mall owners should consider diversifying their tenant mix. This could include adding more restaurants, entertainment venues, and other services that will bring in new customers. Additionally, they should look into offering more online shopping options to cater to those who prefer to shop from home.
Third, mall owners should invest in marketing and advertising campaigns to promote their offerings. This could include utilizing social media platforms, running ads in local newspapers, and creating promotional materials.
Finally, mall owners should look into providing incentives for shoppers. This could include offering discounts, loyalty programs, and other rewards that will encourage customers to return.
By implementing these strategies, mall owners can help revive dying malls and ensure their long-term success.
Exploring the Social Implications of a World Without Malls
The disappearance of malls from the modern landscape would have far-reaching implications for society. The closure of malls would mean a loss of jobs, as well as a decrease in consumer spending and tax revenue. It would also lead to a decrease in social interaction, as malls are often hubs of activity and places where people come together to shop, eat, and socialize.
The economic impact of the closure of malls would be significant. Malls provide employment opportunities for thousands of people, from retail workers to security guards to janitorial staff. The loss of these jobs would have a ripple effect on the economy, as those who are laid off may no longer be able to afford basic necessities or contribute to the local tax base.
The closure of malls would also lead to a decrease in consumer spending. Malls are often the destination of choice for shoppers looking for a wide variety of products and services. Without malls, consumers may be forced to shop online or at smaller, less convenient stores, leading to a decrease in overall spending.
Finally, the closure of malls would lead to a decrease in social interaction. Malls are often bustling hubs of activity, providing a place for people to meet up with friends, grab a bite to eat, or just take a stroll. Without malls, people may be less likely to engage in face-to-face interactions, leading to a decrease in socialization and community engagement.
In conclusion, the closure of malls would have far-reaching implications for society. From an economic standpoint, it would lead to job losses and decreased consumer spending. On a social level, it would lead to a decrease in social interaction and community engagement. For these reasons, it is important to consider the potential consequences of a world without malls.
How Malls Can Adapt to Survive in the Digital Age
The retail industry is in a state of flux, with the rise of digital shopping and the decline of traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Shopping malls, in particular, are feeling the effects of this shift, as more consumers opt for the convenience of online shopping. To survive in this new digital age, malls must adapt to meet the changing needs of their customers.
One way malls can stay competitive is by offering unique experiences that cannot be replicated online. This could include hosting events such as concerts, art shows, or fashion shows, or providing interactive activities like virtual reality gaming or escape rooms. By creating an engaging atmosphere, malls can draw in customers who are looking for something more than just shopping.
Malls should also focus on creating a personalized experience for shoppers. This could include using technology to track customer preferences and suggest products tailored to their individual tastes. Additionally, malls should consider offering loyalty programs and discounts to reward frequent shoppers.
Finally, malls should embrace digital technologies to enhance the shopping experience. This could include offering mobile apps that allow customers to browse store inventories, compare prices, and even make purchases directly from their phones. Malls should also consider investing in digital signage to provide customers with up-to-date information about sales and promotions.
By adapting to the changing needs of their customers, malls can remain competitive in the digital age. By offering unique experiences, personalizing the shopping experience, and embracing digital technologies, malls can create an environment that appeals to both traditional and digital shoppers.
Analyzing the Economic Impact of the Death of Malls
The death of malls has had a significant economic impact on the retail industry. As more and more shoppers turn to online shopping, traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been forced to close their doors. This shift in consumer behavior has resulted in a decrease in sales for many retailers, leading to job losses and reduced tax revenue for local governments.
The decline of malls has also had an effect on the real estate market. Many malls are located in prime locations, and when they close, these properties become vacant. This can lead to a decrease in property values in the surrounding area, as well as a decrease in the amount of money that local governments receive from property taxes.
The death of malls has also had an impact on the transportation industry. With fewer people visiting malls, there is less demand for public transportation services such as buses and trains. This can lead to decreased ridership and lower revenues for public transportation providers.
Finally, the death of malls has had an effect on the overall economy. When malls close, it reduces the number of jobs available in the retail sector. This can lead to a decrease in consumer spending, which can have a ripple effect throughout the economy.
In conclusion, the death of malls has had a significant economic impact on the retail industry, the real estate market, the transportation industry, and the overall economy. It is important for businesses, governments, and consumers to be aware of these impacts and take steps to mitigate them.
Understanding the Cultural Significance of Malls and Why They’re Disappearing
Malls have been a staple of the American shopping experience for decades, but in recent years, they have begun to disappear. Understanding the cultural significance of malls and why they are disappearing is essential for businesses that rely on them for their success.
Malls have long been seen as a symbol of consumer culture and the American Dream. They were places where people could go to find the latest trends, shop for luxury items, and spend time with friends and family. For many, malls were a place to escape from the everyday stresses of life and enjoy a sense of community.
However, the rise of online shopping has had a major impact on malls. With the convenience of shopping from home, more and more people are choosing to purchase items online rather than going to the mall. This has led to a decrease in foot traffic and sales at malls, resulting in many stores closing their doors.
In addition, the changing landscape of retail has also contributed to the decline of malls. Many retailers are now focusing on smaller, more specialized stores that cater to specific customer needs. These stores often offer better prices and more personalized service than traditional malls, making them more attractive to shoppers.
Finally, the increasing popularity of entertainment venues such as movie theaters, bowling alleys, and arcades has also taken away from the appeal of malls. People are now looking for more exciting ways to spend their free time, and malls are no longer able to provide the same level of entertainment as these other venues.
Understanding the cultural significance of malls and why they are disappearing is essential for businesses that rely on them for their success. By recognizing the changing landscape of retail and adapting to meet customer needs, businesses can ensure that they remain competitive in today’s market.


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The Samsung Galaxy Note10 and the Galaxy Note10+ are finally official and unlike before, this is the first time that there’s a plus version of the Galaxy Note smartphone and as expected, the Samsung Galaxy Note10+ comes with a better specifications, display, and other features and if you’re a big fan of the series, you can pre-order the Samsung Galaxy Note10 in the Philippines starting this August 9.
First, let’s talk about the specs of the smartphones. Well, here are the specifications of the Samsung Galaxy Note10 series smartphones in the Philippines
So if you’re planning on getting this smartphone, here’s the official SRP and variants of the Samsung Galaxy Note10+ series in the Philippines
- Samsung Galaxy Note10 8GB/256GB – Php53,990
- Samsung Galaxy Note10 12GB/256GB – Php60,990
- Samsung Galaxy Note10 12GB/512GB – Php72,990
The pre-order starts this August 8 and will last until August 18. If you’re interested, just pay a downpayment of Php2,000 and you may get these freebies depending on the variant that you’re getting:


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Kenya’s leading telecommunications company Safaricom has appointed Sitoyo Lopokoiyit as the M-Pesa Africa Managing Director with effect from April 1.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa said the telcos will start the process of sourcing for someone to replace Lopokoiyit as the company’s Chief Financial Services Officer.
He has been working at Safaricom PLC since April 1, 2018 and previously served as the Vodacom Tanzania PLC M-Commerce Director from October 2015.
Ndegwa said Lopokoiyit will continue acting as the CFSO until a replacement is found.
As the new M-Pesa Africa MD, he is expected to grow M-Pesa into a fully-fledged financial platform and will also handle New Business Ventures as well as Product Management & Development for Consumer and Enterprise.
At Vodacom, Lopokoiyit supervised delivery of innovative products and services while paved way for an accelerated growth of the M-Pesa mobile payment platform in Tanzania.
They include G2 platform, M-Pesa APP, interoperable transactions for peer to peer (P2P) and merchant payments, business to business (B2B) payments, M-Pesa CVM as well as merchant payments.
Before he joined Vodacom Tanzania PLC, he was the Safaricom M-Pesa Strategy and Business Development head and has more than 10 years of senior managerial experience.
Lopokoiyit holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in marketing from the University of Nairobi (2000) and an MSc in IT Management and Organisational Change from Lancaster University in the UK.


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PS5 vs Xbox Series X: Xbox Closes the Gap on PlayStation in Sales and Could Overtake It Soon
The console war grows more tighter.
It seemed like the console race was a foregone conclusion, when the PlayStation 5 took an insurmountable lead against the Xbox Series X last year.
However recently, the race has gotten much tighter as the Microsoft-owned brand has somehow pulled it back with stronger performances in recent months.
According to VGChartz, who monitor the sales of consoles from Xbox, Nintendo and PlayStation, the blue brand still holds a comfortable over the green brand when it comes to figures involving next generation consoles.
Both consoles released around 16 months ago, and as of right now the PS5 and the Xbox Series X has sold over 6.77 million and 6.22 million units, respectively. This puts the PlayStation 5 above the Xbox Series X by over 545,000 units.
PS5 vs Xbox Series sales comparison in the US after 16 months:— VGChartz (@VGChartz) March 26, 2022
After 16 months the PS5 is ahead of the Xbox Series by 546K in the US. However, the Xbox Series closed the gap in 3 of the last 4 months.https://t.co/8bNFlshZY2#VGChartz #PS5 #XboxSeriesX pic.twitter.com/4HJ6f3QbhR
However, things looked widely different just six months ago, as the PlayStation 5 had a lead of around 1.1 million units over the Xbox Series X. However, in three of the last four months, the next-generation console from Xbox has performed much better, and it's very likely that this trend will continue with the Microsoft-developed console soon set to receive multiple exclusive titles in Bethesda's Starfield and many more.
Over the past few years, Microsoft has strengthened its games library with the acquisitions of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard, which gives them a clear advantage over the Sony-owned PlayStation. However, the latter hasn't let down its guard, as the company recently acquired Destiny 2 developers Bungie. It will be interesting to see how the next few months will fare for both console brands as more games will release for the next-generation devices.


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Technology is becoming more of a must-have tool in the construction trades according to a recent survey from Equipment World. A majority (65%) of contractor respondents have a smartphone, up nearly 15% since 2011. Tablet use? That's growing as well, with 39 percent now using them.
And how they're using those devices may surprise you. Marcia Gruver Doyle writes:
The vast majority of respondents—95 percent—use the Internet to search for equipment information, an increase of 9 percent since 2011. There have been modest changes in how respondents use the Internet, with a new emphasis on reading reviews of equipment models (up 13 percent) and reading reviews on forums (up 11 percent).
Video is drawing interest as well, with 62 percent of 2014 respondents saying they visited YouTube, an 18 percent increase from 2011. App use is up also, with 50% more saying the use apps than in 2011.


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Wirral-headquartered Evoke Creative, a design-led manufacturer of interactive digital solutions, has developed a series of innovative new products which address the challenges faced by its blue-chip client base as they re-open for customers and employees.
Fisher & Paykel teams up with Tryzens to turn up the heat on digital commerce and customer engagement
Jun 25, 2020 Comments (0)
Fisher & Paykel customers in the UK now join those in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand in being able to access a new and improved digital experience following the launch of its new online platform – developed in partnership with digital commerce consultancy Tryzens – spearheading the company’s digital growth strategy.
Jun 18, 2020 Comments (0)
For merchants, delivering a great customer experience (CX) has always been high on their list of priorities. It’s essential for fostering customer loyalty, and increasing top-line revenue. A significant aspect of customer experience is how a merchant handles returns, as this can mean increased flexibility and convenience for consumers.
Jun 11, 2020 Comments (0)
By Stefan Spendrup, Vice President of Sales Northern and Western Europe at SOTI.
Back in 1875, Arthur Lasenby Liberty had a dream to open a London emporium filled with luxurious fabrics and goods from abroad, which was a novel and innovative concept for its time.
Jun 10, 2020 Comments (0)
COVID-19 continued to reshape the retail landscape in May, as consumers acclimatised to the enforced shift of shopping online.
Jun 09, 2020 Comments (0)
Anderson Zaks, an independent, UK-based multichannel Payment Gateway has collaborated with Varlink and Smart Volution to deliver a one-device mobile POS and payment solution for retailers and merchants in the UK.
Salesforce launches Quick Start Commerce Solutions to help propel businesses into the digital-first economy
May 26, 2020 Comments (0)
The world has transitioned to a digital-first economy, and online has become the lifeline for many businesses. New research shows that, in the UK, 41% are online shopping more than before the pandemic.
May 26, 2020 Comments (0)
Forter, the e-commerce fraud prevention solutions provider, has launched the May edition of its monthly COVID-19 Report, that reveals the impact of the current climate on consumer behaviour and fraud and abuse trends.
May 07, 2020 Comments (0)
As the face of UK retail has changed in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, so too has how people pay for goods and services, according to research conducted by specialised payments platform Paysafe.
Under 35s are less concerned about COVID-19 and expect their lives to return to normal sooner, says GlobalData
May 04, 2020 Comments (0)
Younger consumers in the UK feel more optimistic than those over 35 and are likely to be more willing to embrace the lockdown loosening when it happens.


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Craft cider makers are looking for a slice of the pie in terms of reduced excise tax for Budget 2022, in line with relief already enjoyed by craft brewers.
Three Cork-based cider makers are calling on the finance minister to include a measure to reduce excise by 50% for craft cider producers in this year’s budget.
Drinks Ireland Cider, the representative group of Ireland’s cider producers, believes this reduction already in place for Ireland’s craft brewers should be extended to craft cider producers.
The Cork cider makers make the point that the past 18 months have been challenging for the cider sector overall. The various rolling lockdowns on hospitality venues in Ireland increased cider purchases in the retail sector, but this was not enough to offset the loss of cider sales in pubs, restaurants, and hotels.
Typically, around 45% of cider purchases were in the on-trade, with 55% in the off-trade; the ratio of on-trade for craft producers is far higher.
However, just 16% of cider was sold in the on-trade in 2020, with 84% of sales in the off-trade, illustrating the massive shift in purchasing patterns. The Covid impact on cider, which is heavily reliant on the on-trade, meant that its market share of alcoholic beverages fell from 7.4% in 2019 to 6.9% in 2020.
Daniel Emerson of Stonewell Cider in Kilnagleary said: “We are asking for the excise relief programme, currently enjoyed by microbrewers, to simply be extended to craft cider producers. The extra margin generated would be driven into capital investment and growth initiatives. There are at least a dozen craft cider producers scattered across Ireland, including ours in Cork, that would benefit greatly with this reduction.”
Barry Walsh from Killahora Orchards in Killahora said: “Ireland already has the third-highest rate of excise on cider in the EU, and this excise reduction for craft cider producers would help support small businesses like ours to create a greater diversity of high-quality Irish products available to consumers.”
Willie O’Callaghan of Longueville House Cider in Mallow said: “Ireland’s craft cider industry is 100% indigenous, from the sourcing of the apples to supporting local employment.
"This is certainly something the Government should be supporting, and an excise reduction would help foster growth.”
Jonathan McDade, head of Cider at Drinks Ireland said: “The Irish cider industry has had a challenging 18 months, and any assistance from the Government would be welcome.
“The excise relief programme for Ireland’s craft brewers saw the number of physical breweries increase from eight to 75 in the space of a decade.
“Extending this programme to craft cider producers could result in further growth in the sector, foster more innovation, and potentially provide consumers with more choice.”


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The roar of the American muscle car may soon be relegated to the annals of history. California governor Jerry Brown is reportedly considering a ban on combustion engines.
Last year alone two million new vehicles were registered in the golden state, any such ban would likely force American automakers to comply with timelines set forth by Brown. If California chose to enact a specific date by which manufacturers had to comply it could prompt other states to enact similar measures.
According to the report Brown was prompted to wonder why California wasn’t already pushing towards a ban on combustion engines when he learned of a similar initiative in China.
The Chinese government announced that it would effectively ban combustion engines in time, though it didn’t give any specifics on when that would happen. Also of note, concerning Chinese policy, is a Wall Street Journal article indicating that the country will soon relax specific rules requiring foreign automakers to work with a Chinese partner.
These moves could leave the door open for companies like Tesla to open plants in China, effectively lowering costs for consumers – but potentially taking jobs and tax dollars out of the US.
California has the opportunity to incentivize Tesla and other manufacturers to make their electric cars in the US by providing a drop-dead date for combustion engines.
Mary Nichols, chairman of the California Air Resources Board, told Bloomberg:
To reach the ambitious levels of reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, we have to pretty much replace all combustion with some form of renewable energy by 2040 or 2050. We’re looking at that as a method of moving this discussion forward.
It’s painful for some of us to try and imagine a world where the wide-open sound of a 1964 1/2 Ford Mustang’s engine as it tears through a quarter-mile has been banned. But it’s better than trying to imagine what happens if we don’t do something about our emissions problem in America.


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Michigan farmers eligible for direct financial assistance
Funds come from the USDA's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
MICHIGAN — Starting this week, Michigan farmers can enroll for COVID-19 relief payments as part of the United State Department of Agriculture’s $16 billion Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.
“Michigan is fortunate to be home to a strong, resilient and diverse food and ag sector,” Gary McDowell, the director of the state Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said in a press release. “There is an army of people who grow, process, and retail our food who have been hit hard by COVID-19. Governor Whitmer and MDARD continue to work with our partners at USDA to ensure our farmers and ag community members have access to the aid they need to weather this pandemic.”
The USDA guidelines for farmers are as follows:
• For wool and row crops, including malting barley, canola, corn, upland cotton, millet, oats, soybeans, sorghum, sunflowers, durum wheat, and hard red spring wheat, payments will be based on inventory subject to price risk held as of Jan. 15.
• For cattle, lambs, yearlings and hogs, the payment will be calculated based on the producer’s number of livestock sold between Jan. 15. and April 15, multiplied by the payment rates per head, and the highest number of livestock between April 16 and May 14, multiplied by the payment rate per head.
• For dairy producers, the payment will be based in part on the farmer’s milk production for the first quarter of 2020, multiplied by the national price decline during the same quarter. A second part of the payment will be based on a national adjustment to each producer’s first-quarter production.
• For speciality crops, including almonds, beans, broccoli, sweet corn, lemons, iceberg lettuce, spinach, squash, strawberries, and tomatoes, payments will be based on the amount a farm sold between Jan. 15 and April 15; the volume a farm shipped during the period but was not paid for, and the number of acres that were never harvested.
The aid is prorated, meaning that farmers will receive 80% of payment in the initial distribution with the remaining 20% as funds become available. Farmers should start receiving payments within a week of enrolling, with payments capped at $250,000 per individual recipient.
Producers of all eligible commodities will apply through their local USDA Farm Service Agency office, with applications accepted through Aug. 28.


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China Mobile and Futuremark Sign Benchmark Development Agreement
Futuremark to develop benchmarking software for China Mobile's use in smart phone Performance Measurement
HELSINKI, FINLAND - November 3rd, 2009 - Futuremark® Corporation, the world's leading developer of performance-analysis software and services for smart phones, handheld devices and PCs, announced today that China Mobile and Futuremark have entered into an agreement for the development of a new benchmarking software, which will enable the objective performance measurement of cell phones using China Mobile's smart phone operating system. This new Benchmark will be based on Futuremark's existing SPMark® product line of benchmarks and will include additional tests developed specifically for China Mobile by Futuremark.
"We have chosen to use Futuremark's Benchmark as our standard testing suite for handset qualification," said Mr. Yu Chuan, the Director of the Terminal Department, China Mobile Research Institute. "With Futuremark's Benchmark, China Mobile and our handset partners have the ideal tool for accurately and reliably measuring the performance of cell phones running the smart phone operating system."
"With China Mobile being the largest Mobile Operator in the world, even small increases in performance have a big impact," said Tero Sarkkinen, CEO of Futuremark. "By using the modern performance testing methods developed by Futuremark, China Mobile is showing its customers it is serious about delivering a world class cell phone experience."
The Benchmark will be available for licensing during the first quarter of 2010. Interested parties should contact Futuremark directly for quotations concerning pricing and delivery. For more information on Futuremark's other benchmark products and services for the mobile and embedded industries or Futuremark's Mobile Benchmark Development Program please visit http://www.futuremark.com/benchmarks/mobilebenchmarks/
About China Mobile Corporation
As the leading mobile telecommunication operator in China, China Mobile provides mobile voice and data services as well as other related services in all 31 provinces, autonomous regions and directly-administered municipalities in mainland China, in addition, it is one of the major mobile telecommunication operators in Hong Kong. As of March 31, 2009, the number of users reached approximately 477 million, ranking number one in the world.
About Futuremark Corporation
Futuremark® Corporation serves the mobile industry with professional application performance analysis tools and workloads. Our world renowned product portfolio includes 3DMark®Mobile for OpenGL ES 1.x and OpenGL ES 2.0, VGMark for OpenVG 1.x, and SPMark for Symbian, Windows Mobile, Linux and mobile Java. In addition, we license Kanzi, a 3D graphics UI engine to mobile, embedded and automotive device makers. Futuremark Oy is headquartered in Espoo, Finland and has offices in Shanghai and Silicon Valley.
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Hundreds of Black Keys fans were turned away at the band’s show in Los Angeles on Thursday after purchasing tickets from third-party vendors.
Those who showed employees at the Wiltern Theatre their mobile tickets from the likes of StubHub, SeatGeek and Vivid Seats were denied entry, leaving swathes of disappointed people outside the venue attempting to get refunds.
Statements from the American rock band and Ticketmaster insisted that admission had always been billed as “non-transferable” from the get-go.
The Live Nation-owned ticketing giant said in a statement. “The presenters of the concert directed that these tickets be made available only to fans and that they be strictly non-transferable.
“This was messaged from the beginning with the announcement of the performance and throughout the sales process. Unfortunately, bad actors took advantage of this situation and posted screen shots of tickets that were not valid for entry onto the secondary market. We always recommend purchasing tickets from the official source.”
However, many fans insisted that “non-transferable” was absent in every announcement about the show.
One fan tweeted: “I see the Black Keys admitted full responsibility for turning away all their fans. Great job by them alienating fans for no reason!”
Another said: “Personally I am sick and tired of getting ripped off for concert tickets when this scalper market could easily be completely shut down. Good on the Black Keys. I hope MORE bands do this.”
The Black Keys said in an email via their representative: “Last night’s concert tickets were $25 and geared toward the fan club.
“This was our first show in over four years and the kickoff of the Let’s Rock Tour. Because we were playing a venue far smaller than the rest of the venues on the tour as a warmup show, we turned off ticket transferability to ensure that our fans got in the door at the low ticket prices we set for them.
“Unfortunately, scalpers took this opportunity to defraud our fans and steal their money by selling tickets that were ineligible for transfer on scalper sites.”
StubHub, which became inundated with complaints from fans after the show, decided to issue refunds for those who were turned away.
It said in a statement, according to Variety: “Unexpectedly, Live Nation and Ticketmaster issued tickets for The Black Keys concert through rotating barcodes, which limit how fans can use tickets. This resulted in fans who purchased legitimate tickets on StubHub being turned away at the entrance.
“Fans should not be punished for giving away or reselling their tickets. We strongly disagree with Live Nation and Ticketmaster’s approach and the negative impact it has on fans. As part of our FanProtect Guarantee, StubHub is proactively offering full refunds, and given the exceptional situation, we’re also extending a $100 credit to affected fans.”
Image: Jason Persse


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Apple has released the 2020 version of the iPhone SE and it’s getting favourable reviews across the board for its price and technical specs.
Re-using the design of the iPhone 8 and tech from the iPhone 11, the latest SE is the first budget handset to be rolled out by Apple since the original in 2016.
It is released in three colours - white, black and (PRODUCT)RED - and three models. The 64GB SE costs £419; the 128GB model is £469; and the 256GB model is £569.
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Chris Velazco of engadget believes the new SE might be the “most important phone Apple releases this year” while TechRadar’s Gareth Beavis says the smart improvements make this “one of the best iPhones Apple has ever made”.
Here we look at everything about the Apple iPhone SE - specs, reviews and must-have accessories.
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All about the iPhone SE
Expert Reviews, sister publication of TheWeek.co.uk, explain all the details about Apple’s new iPhone SE.
The 4.7in display is flanked by the same set of hefty bezels you remember from all those years ago (2017, actually) and supports Dolby Vision and HDR10 video playback. Below it, you’ll find another relic of that bygone era: a Touch ID “Home” button, complete with a fingerprint sensor.
The cameras are at first glance identical to the ones you’d find on the iPhone 8, but Apple explains that the new A13 processor equips the SE with the same neat tricks as the iPhone 11. That means Portrait mode and lighting, as well as Depth Control and Smart HDR. The rear camera supports up to 4K video recording at 24fps, 30fps or 60fps.
The new iPhone SE supports wireless and – more crucially – fast charging. According to Apple, it will hit 50% charge in 30 minutes, although this requires a separate 18W charger.
Specs: iPhone SE
- Processor: Apple A13 Bionic
- Storage: 64GB, 128GB or 256GB
- Display: 4.7in Retina HD (1,334 x 750)
- Camera (rear): 12MP f/1.8
- Camera (front): 7MP
- Battery: 13 hrs video playback (non-streamed)
- Dimensions: 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm (HWD)
- Weight: 148g
- Colours: white, black and (PRODUCT)RED
- Price: from £419 for the 64GB version
iPhone SE verdict: what the experts are saying
Chris Velazco, engadget
“The new iPhone SE might be the most important phone Apple releases this year. The iPhone SE isn’t just a good deal - it’s a big deal. For people clinging to ancient phones because new ones are too large, too expensive or too gimmicky, the iPhone SE is the right phone at the right time at the right price.”
Gareth Beavis, TechRadar
“This is the phone to get if you just want a new iPhone, and one that will last you a few years, but don’t want to pay a lot for it. If you’re after ‘decent but not top-end’ performance, then that’s what the iPhone SE 2020 will offer you: there’s a good camera, enough power, a great App Store to plunder and a lighter-weight design than the current crop of iPhone 11 models. Battery life could be better, the screen tech is starting to age, and some upgraders will miss the headphone jack; but overall, the smart improvements make this – for the price – one of the best iPhones Apple has ever made.”
Lauren Goode, Wired
“A brand-new iPhone, with Apple’s fastest smartphone chip. Camera isn’t comparable to flagship phone cameras, but is still extremely capable. Supports fast LTE and Wi-Fi 6. The Home button makes a comeback! Wireless charging is a nice touch.”
Joanna Stern, The Wall Street Journal
“Introducing the new iPhone SE, an iPhone for people who hate new iPhones. OK, so I’m no Apple ad copywriter, but the iPhone SE is a great phone. It just isn’t meant for those of us who upgrade our phones every year or two…”
Sascha Segan, PC Magazine
“The new iPhone SE is all the phone most people need. With a blazing-fast processor, a high-quality body, and solid connectivity for £419, the 2020 iPhone SE sets a benchmark for midrange phones. It uses a [popular] older iPhone body and a smaller screen to cut prices while giving you a super speedy experience and Apple’s latest apps. It’s a terrific and perfectly timed phone, easily worthy of our Editors’ Choice.”
iPhone SE: must-have accessories
Silicone case: £39
Coming in three colours - white, black and pink sand - this silicone case is designed to complement the SE. It fits snugly over the volume buttons, side button and curves of the device without adding bulk.
Leather case: £45
As well as the silicone case, Apple has also released a leather case for the SE. It also comes in three colours - midnight blue, black and (PRODUCT)RED. It’s made from specially tanned and finished French leather.
Belkin InvisiGlass Ultra Screen Protection: £24.95
Apple says the Belkin InvisiGlass Ultra provides impressively durable and scratch-resistant screen protection for your iPhone and sets a new standard for glass screen protection.
AirPods are compatible with the iPhone SE with pricing as follows:
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LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, a fun loving person, always helps his teammates by instilling confidence in them. LeBron James is not only among the greatest basketball players of all time, but he has also amassed an amazing career in sneakers.
Fans have witnessed his greatness in the footwear industry and on the court for over 20 years. LeBron is very active on social media and often shares his jokes. He came up with a hilarious name for his recently worn shoes.
LeBron James devises hilarious shoe name
James unveiled a previously unreleased colorway of his iconic Nike sneakers during a home game in Los Angeles. Before James declared the outrageous purple and gold hoop shoes to be the “LeRasberry Lemonade” colorway, fans took turns speculating about their identity.
James’ 21st signature sneaker was released by Nike prior to the commencement of his 21st NBA season. September 28, 2023, marked the official release date of the Nike LeBron 21. The shoes have been available on the Nike website in a variety of colorways for the last two months. There is currently no word on whether the “LeRaspberry Lemonade” colorway will be made available to the general public.
It might be one of the many beloved sneakers by fans that is still available only to players. Nonetheless, Nike has frequently taken ardent LeBron fans by surprise with the release of new sneakers. As its namesake continues to make history on the basketball court, the Nike LeBron 21 is certain to be another incredible release in James’s signature collection.
LeBron James injury update
On Friday, Nov. 17, the Los Angeles Lakers will take on the Portland Trail Blazers who are currently rebuilding. The match will take place as part of the in-season tournament, where the Purple and Gold, having won their first two games, are presently leading west Group A.
Due to a left calf contusion, superstar LeBron James is questionable to play. The injured list includes Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and rookie guard Jalen Hood-Schifino. Anthony Davis should take part in the competition as he is listed as probable. But James, who has led the Lakers’ offense on numerous occasions and started the new season with outstanding play, will be the center of attention.
This season, the Trail Blazers aren’t regarded as elite competition. With a new roster that was assembled this summer, they are cultivating the youthful talent at their disposal. Thus, the Lakers’ in-season tournament matchup with the Trail Blazers would be the one game in which they could afford to bench their 38-year-old star. If Darvin Ham wants his best player to be healthy come playoff time, he has to control James’ playing time and minutes.
What are your thoughts on the new Nike LeBron 21 shoes? Feel free to share with us in the comments below.


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Chinese WoW gamers rage at The9
Recent service 'issues' surrounding World of Warcraft in China have led many gamers there to threaten a mass exodus from the game, unless Blizzard and Chinese provider The9 make key improvements, reports Gamasutra.com. The MMO title is hugely popular in China, but news agency Interfax reveals that the title may be experiencing more than a few 'growing pains'.
Chinese gamers are apparently experiencing very long delays when logging-in to the title, sometimes waiting more than an hour to reach the server list. What's more an endgame raid featuring one-thousand or so gamers recently collapsed at the eleventh hour because of mass server failure. Very frustrating.
Chinese MMO company The9 operate and maintain the day-to-day operations of the game in China, but Blizzard are still crucial to the development equation and it is believed a flaw in this relationship could be causing delays in improvements. Chinese gamers are particularly angered as The9 charge per hour for play-time in WoW, rather than on a monthly subscription basis.
A spokesman for the company said the problems were being investigated at present and that customers who'd lost out would be reimbursed. More soon.
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- New poll indicates that people believe online gaming is “the least welcoming space” for women
- CD Projekt RED releases The Trail, the opening cinematic from The Witcher 3
- New Project CARS trailer pulls up to the starting grid
- Far Cry 4 dev says linear games will suffer in the new world of gameplay video sharing
- Almost 1,100 developers, students and journalists sign the new #gamediversity petition embracing diversity in games
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- Ubisoft announces PC specs for Assassin's Creed: Unity and they're killer


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On planes, trains and buses; in grocery stores and malls; and most definitely walking across universities, surgical masks appear to be the latest fashion accessory. Mind you, few people are wearing them correctly…but I digress. People are understandably worried about this new Corona Virus, for which we have marginal understanding, no vaccine, little effective treatment and no cure.
First things first, though, let’s start with the name.
On Feb 11, 2020, the World Health Organization officially changed the name from Corona Virus to COVID-19, which is simply an abbreviation of “CO”rona “VI”rus “D”disease, which started in 20“19”. … Read more


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BlackRock has followed up its Coinbase partnership with its first institutional crypto investment product: a private bitcoin trust that offers direct exposure to spot BTC price action.
BlackRock has debuted its first investment product offering direct exposure to bitcoin, according to a statement issued on Thursday (August 12, 2022).
The product is a private bitcoin trust for institutional clients based in the US that offers direct exposure to the spot price of the largest crypto by market capitalization.
According to the company, the introduction of the product offering is in response to an increased interest from its big money clients who want to access cryptocurrency. An excerpt from the announcement reads:
“Despite the steep downturn in the digital asset market, we are still seeing substantial interest from some institutional clients in how to efficiently and cost-effectively access these assets using our technology and product capabilities.”
Today’s announcement comes shortly on the heels of the $10 trillion asset manager inking a deal with US exchange giant Coinbase.
This deal is to enable BlackRock to begin offering crypto investment products to institutional investors via Coinbase Prime.


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With LTE now available, Sun customers can now enjoy a better mobile data experience.
Smart maintained its lead in LTE speeds, according to wireless coverage research firm OpenSignal.
PLDT Home Fibr is now in Antipolo, Marikina, Pasig, Taguig, Caloocan, Taytay, Cainta, and Pateros.
Check out the step-by-step guide here.
Filipino netizens may now Netflix and chill.
It uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to connect our phones directly.


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The interest of the private sector will be at the forefront in negotiations of the Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.
This agreement is in furtherance of the commitment made by African leaders in Addis Ababa in 2012 towards the establishment of the CFTA.
This Special Issue presents diverse views on a number of salient topics affecting international arbitration involving the African continent.
Regions Refocus has compiled five “Virtual Teach-ins” of footage from the workshop “Towards an Equitable and Transformative Continental Free Trade Area: A Heterodox and Feminist Approach.”
Here are seven things you need to know about Africa’s Continental Free Trade Area — which could be up and running by the end of 2017.
Djiboutian finance minister says new free trade agreement aims to increase China’s presence in Africa and Red Sea regions
Successful implementation of the CFTA will enable members to realize their potential to expand and accelerate the dynamism of intra-African trade
Dissent was heard at the high-level meeting in Dakar of the EU and the 79-member states of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group.
The EU’s Economic Partnership Agreements with sub-Saharan countries inked a few years ago are not getting off the ground as African governments don’t like their EU-inspired rules on raw materials policies.
In African countries, the expansion of international investment agreements could carry significant risks to policy space and policy tools necessary for industrialization and development.
The Continental Free Trade Area offers African producers and investors an unique opportunity to benefit from this important market.
26 African countries signed the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) agreement. However, only three of Africa’s eight regional economic communities are participating in the TFTA.
So far, the NDA government has been a mute spectator to the US pharma strategy of forcing Indian generics manufacturers to produce only what is required for Indian consumers and abandon the export of cheap drugs to Africa
The European Commission (EC) presented its new trade and investment strategy entitled “Trade for all: towards a more responsible trade and investment policy".
The continent of Africa is being unified economically and politically under an EU-style continental regime beyond the reach of citizens. And the entire integration agenda is, in fact, being supported by powers that do not have the interests of Africans in mind.
L’ouverture du marché américain qu’a permis la loi AGOA est une ouverture en trompe-l’œil. Les produits pétroliers et le textile ont été privilégiés, mais ceux-ci ne constituent pas l’essentiel du potentiel de l’ensemble des pays africains.
L’Union sait que le temps est son meilleur allié pour imposer à l’Afrique centrale son APE bilatéral avec le Cameroun comme base des négociations.
Swaziland will eliminate in any way possible barriers to the ratification and approval of the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA).
Leaders from Southern Africa meet for their annual summit this month in Botswana, united by a common objective to improve the socio-economic situation in the region.
L’Union européenne qui a signé avec seize pays d’Afrique de l’Ouest un accord dit de partenariat économique. Un appel est lancé pour appeler les élus européens à ne pas ratifier cet accord.


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Release: Stop The ATO From Taking Back Tax Refunds
The Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance, a 75,000+ member grassroots advocacy group representing the nation’s taxpayers, today called for reform to the Australian Tax Office after a number of complaints about unfair clawing back of R&D Tax Incentives.
“Technology businesses are being forced to pay back millions in tax refunds after the ATO attempted to claw back validly granted incentives for research and development.” said ATA Communications Manager, Emilie Dye. “These businesses genuinely believed that they qualified for the breaks, and indeed, many of them did. Yet this hasn’t stopped the ATO from targeting them with crippling litigation years after the fact.
“The ATO has decided to play a cruel joke on small businesses by penalising them for its own lack of clarity about who or what is eligible. Small businesses already face enough uncertainty and the ATO does not need to make their lives harder by making compliance so complicated.”
“Businesses can appeal, but that process in itself is enough to force some small businesses out of business. Ordinary people should never have to go to court simply to learn what a law means, especially when their livelihoods are on the line. Businesses deserve clarity when it comes to taxes so they can make the best possible decisions.
“The ATA calls for more clarity around these incentives so businesses understand eligibility before they spend money on R&D thinking that they will receive a tax refund. There is no point in providing tax incentives to encourage innovation when businesses who make the honest mistake of seeking them could be crippled by litigation years into the future for no fault of their own.”