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(PRWEB) July 10, 2010
The do-it-yourself online alternative to real estate, BuyMyPlace is pleased to announce that the Company has saved their vendors around $1.4 Million in fees and commissions since December 2009, resulting from $44,866,500 worth of properties sold through BuyMyPlace during this time. This outstanding result highlights the viability of buying and selling property, online through a ‘for private sale’ Company, such as BuyMyPlace.
The analysis also revealed that 56 per cent of properties sold for MORE than what the agent quoted their property to be valued at, with 45 per cent of customers selling their property for the same or more than their asking price and 17 per cent of properties selling for MORE than their advertised price. On average, people who sold their property for more, received an extra $25,000 or 5 per cent of sale price. On average, it took a BuyMyPlace customer 41 days to sell their property and only 6.9 hours were spent selling their property through BuyMyPlace. BuyMyPlace believes that these results demonstrate the exciting momentum that private sale real estate is currently experiencing in Australia.
In Australia, Real Estate agents have long been the primary resource for buying and selling property. BuyMyPlace was originally established because the founders believed that there was a much better way to deal with Real Estate in Australia. BuyMyPlace aims to revolutionise the way people buy property, empowering vendors to be in a stronger position when managing their most important investment- their home. BuyMyPlace provides buyers and sellers with all the tools and technologies that real-estate agents typically use, but allow the vendor to sell the property themselves, cutting out the real estate agent, advertising and marketing and other associated fees.
With independent research showing that 25 per cent of people would use an alternative method to sell their property if it was widely available, BuyMyPlace has the potential for significant growth within a market in need of an alternative. The directors of BuyMyPlace continue to develop methods of differentiation that will continue to make BuyMyPlace unique in the marketplace. In pursuing a proven business model that has worked in many other countries around the world, including Canada; where do-it-yourself sales account for more than 30 per cent of the market, and the US; where do-it-yourself sales account for around 25 per cent of the market, BuyMyPlace intends to revolutionise the way in which property is bought and sold in Australia.
According to Peter Butterss, BuyMyPlace Chief Executive Officer, “In Italy, Germany and Israel, up to 50 per cent of real estate sales are being conducted using a ‘for sale by owner’ website, like BuyMyPlace, for private real-estate transactions. BuyMyPlace intends to replicate that success in the Australian property market and these results indicate that we are making excellent progress.”
“There are very few national players in the real-estate agency market in Australia. Most of it is dominated by local players, with one or two offices and they are not looking globally or broadly at the whole market and how things are moving. Real-estate hasn’t consolidated yet. BuyMyPlace is ahead of its time in this respect.” “I believe in another 18 months to two years we will be a household name in Australia and four to five years from now people will wonder why they did it the old way. 90 per cent of people find property on the internet, our site has hundreds of thousands of hits per week and our packages are sold right across the large real-estate advertising portals, like REA and Domain.”
BuyMyPlace is listed on the Australian Small Scale Offerings Board (ASSOB) and is seeking up to $3 million to fund the continued expansion of the Company and provide working capital for 2010/2011. The offer is available only to sophisticated investors.
With strong results, a unique proposition and aspirations to become a part of the new philosophy for buying and selling property, BuyMyPlace looks set to become the bricks and mortar decision for those looking for a do-it-yourself online real estate alternative to buying or selling property.
For more information please visit the Company website, http://www.buymyplace.com.au or http://www.assob.com.au/bmp
For further information please contact:
Peter Butterss Rod North Chief Executive Officer Managing Director Buy My Home Limited Bourse Communications Pty Ltd T 1300 289 697 T (03) 9510 8309 M 0408 670 706 E rod(at)boursecommunications(dot)com(dot)au
ABOUT BUY MY PLACE – JOIN THE REVOLUTION SELL IT YOURSELF AND SAVE!
BuyMyPlace is an online real estate advertising company and brand that represents the future of real estate in Australia. BuyMyPlace empowers you with the choice of selling your own home online without paying high agent commissions or expensive advertising costs.
The site (http://www.buymyplace.com.au) is a “do it yourself one-stop shop” which provides all the tools and services Real Estate Agents currently have at their disposal. The site provides the consumer a totally new experience which is easier, convenient, more effective and most importantly far more cost effective.
The business was launched nationally in April 2009. Since then, BuyMyPlace has become the biggest and most recognised sell your own home company in Australia.
STATISTICS FROM RECENT DATA ANALYSIS
Ï $44,866,500 worth of properties sold through buyMyplace
Ï $1,399,094 worth of commission savings for customers Ï Average Days to sell a property through buyMyplace: 41 days Ï Average time spent selling their property through buyMyplace: 6.9 hours
Ï 80% of properties sold for the same or more than what a real estate agent valued the property
20% of properties received LESS than what a real estate agent valued their property at.
23% of properties sold for the SAME as what an agent quoted the property at.
56% of properties sold for MORE than what the agent quoted their property to be valued
Ï 45% of customers sold their property for the same or more than their asking price
17% of properties sold for MORE than their advertised price
28% of properties sold for exactly their advertised price
55% of properties sold for LESS than their advertised price
On Average people who sold their property for more received an extra $25,000 (5% of sale price)
# # #


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By EWN • 27 January 2023 • 11:00
Cryptocurrency has come under fire in the past few years, mainly for the amount of electricity it takes to mine coins. Mining Bitcoin (BTC), according to some, has a more detrimental impact on the environment than mining for gold.
Consequently, the crypto industry has developed cleaner ways to mine the tokens and developed new technologies to keep reducing the environmental impact of the coin and system. Ethereum (ETH) has been a pioneer in this field, but others such as Big Eyes Coin (BIG), SolarCoin (SLR), and C+ Charge (CCHG) have pioneered entirely new ways of both reducing environmental impact, and actively contributing to cleaning up and mitigation.
While all three demonstrate real care about the natural world and a clear commercial benefit for users, Big Eyes has the potential for the biggest return as it’s currently in its presale phase and has already generated $17.5m. The interest in Big Eyes is only growing with time.
The fun and exciting Big Eyes Coin does things its own way, from the zany, anime, cat aesthetic to devoting 5% of all tokens at release to a charity fund. Making full use of its image, Big Eyes leans on the cat imagery to safeguard its most treasured food: fish. And where do fish live? In the ocean, of course! In fact, Big Eyes has already contributed to Sea Shepherd, an international ocean-based charity that seeks to directly confront and expose illegal fishing. Sea Shepherd does not own corporate offices or run extensive fundraising activities, it relies on the goodwill of individuals. There is no doubt that more charities and organisations will stand to benefit when the token is released.
SolarCoin demonstrates a complete commitment to environmental protection. SolarCoins can only be mined through solar power, making it one of the most environmentally friendly cryptocurrencies in existence as it ends up releasing little to no greenhouse gases. Therefore, owners of solar panels stand to gain as they can continue minting tokens and growing the profile of a genuinely environmentally friendly token.
C+ Charge is one of the few cryptocurrencies tapping into the lucrative carbon credit market. The token is used to charge electric vehicles (EV’s) with the C+ Charge token, affording the user carbon credits that can be openly traded on the market. In the first quarter of 2022 alone, Tesla generated $679m in revenue, showing just how lucrative carbon credits can be. Token holders will earn carbon credits simply for holding tokens, and EV owners can earn carbon credits by paying for their charge with C+ Charge tokens. Carbon credits have been the preserve of the biggest corporate polluters, but C+ Charge is trying to democratise access to carbon credits and the seller’s market with its token.
While all three tokens help the environment and climate in their own way, they aren’t equals when it comes to generating returns. Since SolarCoin relies on solar power to mint a token, it’s often a slow process and doesn’t result in a great yield.
C+ Charge provides some more financial impetus, and holders of the token can earn carbon credits simply for holding them. However, to make full use of the token and maximise carbon credit earnings, charging an EV car at C+ Charge affiliate locations is key to making full use of the token.
BigEyes is in its presale phase and has already generated $17.5m, with that number growing on a weekly basis. When the token’s successful presale phase is coupled with its growing audience on social media, it’s the perfect recipe for growth. The presale is the best time to invest in crypto tokens, as the demand tends to go up at the release.
Use discount code “LAUNCHBIGEYES200” to receive a 200% bonus!
WARNING: The investment in crypto assets is not regulated, it may not be suitable for retail investors and the total amount invested could be lost
AVISO IMPORTANTE: La inversión en criptoactivos no está regulada, puede no ser adecuada para inversores minoristas y perderse la totalidad del importe invertido
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National pizza chain Papa Johns has posted a massive 1st quarter loss that is expected to hurt year end business results.
This is all in part to the deal the pizza chain has in cities with NFL teams.
Whenever a home team wins, Papa Johns offers 50% off of all orders.
As the Arizona Cardinals continue to win-win-win, Papa Johns is losing money quicker than a gambling addict in a casino.
Company representatives stated that this deal usually helps promote business because normally teams aren’t this good and customers keep coming back. But in this case, they may have to close down some locations because of the Cardinals success.
The Arizona Cardinals continue on their white hot season after beating the Detroit Lions, 14-6 at home and improve their record to 9-1.


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XtraLife, a spanish game retailer has put a listing on their website for Crash Bandicoot: N Sane Trilogy for the Nintendo Switch. They have listed it saying it is coming out this year and possibly being announced at E3. Eurogamer has previously said that it has heard from different sources that the game is in development.
The Nintendo Switch version of FIFA 18 has gotten a 494% sales increase this week because of a price cut in the United Kingdom. Multiple UK retailers were selling game for under £30, which a lot of switch owners had taken advantage of, and because of this the game managed to get to number one in the UK games charts.
Anyone looking to get a Splatoon 2 pro controller might want to pick one up soon because Amazon US has listed it as discontinued.
However, there hasn’t been an official statement from Nintendo yet and Amazon UK, at the time of writing, hasn’t discontinued it yet and is still selling as normal.
We will just have to wait and see.
This weekend, US players have been battling it out to see what is better: love or money, with team love winning overall.
Even though team money won by team matches, it wasn’t enough as team love’s votes and solo match performance managed to beat team money.
For anyone looking to pick up a Nintendo switch pro controller but didn’t like it’s usual sale price, Amazon US are currently offering one for $49.99, which usually sells for $69.99
You can purchase one here: Amazon US


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Railroads, ocean carriers, and ports are investing in new equipment and technology innovation to move freight from trucks to rails and attract intermodal shippers.
As intermodal grows, so do its challenges. Increasing cargo volumes create bottlenecks and congestion; while the capacity shortage has everyone scrambling. How are shippers and service providers coping? This article helps solve the dilemma.
Intermodal allows shippers to cut transportation costs without sacrificing service.
Exploring intermodal transportation's potential.
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
21st annual State of Logistics Report: Beating the Recession; Making dollars and Sense out of Jabulanis and Vuvuzelas; Mergers and Acquisitions Show signs of Recovery
As the Panama Canal's $5.25-billion expansion nears completion, how are shippers and ports preparing?
The shortage of qualified drivers threatens the continued growth of the intermodal industry.
Challenging weather and a remote location make delivering freight to and from Alaska a complex operation. To simplify operations, many shippers turn to transportation companies and logistics service providers that have the expertise to make sure freight flows smoothly despite the complexities.
Facing a number of challenges and constraints, the global port industry is addressing concerns and capitalizing on new opportunities.
As transportation prices rise, shippers are engaging in smart planning to reduce logistics costs.
Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.
Intermodal solutions can have significant returns, but there are challenges to consider.
Shippers such as Ste. Michelle, Welch’s, and Michaels Stores are using intermodal transportation to move freight quickly, efficiently, and sustainably.
News briefs: U.S. Ports Dig Panama Gold, Reducing the Carton Footprint, SaaS to the Rescue, BNSF Brings Shortlines On Line, Truckers Tackle Credit Crunch
Regional shortline railroads introduce intermodal shippers to marine rail solutions; Highway report ranks state highway systems; UPS exec offers insight on supply chain trends for 2010; FedEx Freight partners with Vision Industries to test a hybrid heavy-duty tractor; Clorox address hazardous materials concerns; Import cargo volumes rise at retail container ports
One way a manufacturer can mitigate the effects of increasing regulations and demand volatility is by working with a third-party logistics provider with a leveraged platform.
Refugees cause price hike for European Union shippers; East-West shippers see sharp decline in contract rates; technology innovations to transform competitive landscape in global freight forwarding market; home delivery in the United Kingdom
The pursuit of perfection may seem an impossible goal. But, with the right combination of key elements, four regions in the United States have achieved logistics greatness.
Slovenian Post acquires logistics network to diversify business; Ontario cap-and-trade threatens Great Lakes-St. Lawrence shipping; China looks to build modern logistics cities; UAE manufacturing potential exposes labor market flaws; Nicaraguan Canal financing faces fresh skepticism in light of stock market crash.
3PLs tout IoT as top disruptive innovation in the supply chain; Hyundai and Accenture team up to design smarter ship; TMS use has tripled over the past decade; new sustainability web platform helps shippers assess key trends and best practices.
In the logistics of trade, the relationship between Canada and the United States is both friendly and advantageous on both sides of the border.
In today's high-speed logistics infrastructure, rail represents a key component of the intermodal framework.
We hit the road this past fall to get an up close view, around the bend, of where the railroad industry is tracking in 2015 and beyond.
Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers
From first mile to last mile and every mile in between, truck drivers are the lifeblood of your supply chain. Meet some of these dedicated professionals.
Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.
Reciprocal switching debate casts a cloud over railroad industry collaboration; Procurement execution gap costs U.S. businesses $1.5 billion per year; Holiday consumers plan to shop sooner to avoid last-minute parcel problems; Trucking costs continue to soar as driver shortage worsens; Amazon Supreme Court case will set a precedent for how companies secure facilities and compensate workers.
Intermodal transport provides cost savings, increased reliability, greater capacity, and green and safety advantages.
The trucking industry faces capacity constraints, but there are solutions available to help shippers minimize the impact.
Creative use of intermodal and multimodal options enables cost-effective transportation, boosts capacity, and reduces highway congestion delays.
Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.
UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations
DB Schenker tests silent brake blocks; India changes policy for e-commerce foreign investment; Canada opens Customs Self Assessment preferences to U.S. shippers; Global steamship lines raise rates; European ports struggle with congestion and larger ships
When selecting manufacturing and distribution sites, companies should ensure rail/intermodal accessibility.
Georgia offers manufacturers and distributors superior access to logistics providers and transportation infrastructure.
Rapid changes in the chassis market mean shippers must ensure they are creating value from the chassis they use.
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
The 2013 Rail Trends conference addressed issues of rail safety and regulation.
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
SKU proliferation tops demand forecasting trends; U.S. government creates National Maritime Domain Awareness Plan; Trucking industry documents HOS impacts; 10 manufacturing and supply chain trends to keep an eye on in 2014; 5 tips for mapping the supply chain; Spot market demand stays high into 2014; Logistics sector adopts big data
Aviation climate emissions agreement signals major progress; Latin American economic growth expected to accelerate despite hinterland connectivity issues; IMO’s container weight verification amendment irks some shipper advocates; Rolls-Royce developing hybrid wind-powered ship; Spain and Portugal seek rail freight harmonies
Transporting goods via truck and rail services offers shippers economy and efficiency benefits. Site selection teams evaluating intermodal sites also consider factors such as labor, transportation infrastructure, and utility costs.
At the annual RailTrends conference, industry experts shared insight on trends, opportunities, and challenges facing North American railroads.
Railroads continue to ramp up capital spending on infrastructure and equipment, leading to new intermodal services that prompt more shippers – and motor carriers – to adopt multimodal approaches.
Carriers, port authorities, and other service providers are working to keep intermodal going strong. Here’s a look at some of the newest developments in intermodal transportation around North America.
When looking for environmental sustainability solutions, which ground transport mode -- truck or rail -- is greener?
Intermodal connections help shippers move product quickly and efficiently. Get on track with some locations, utilities, and service providers that are helping intermodal grow.
The emergence of refrigerated container units provides more cost-effective rail and intermodal shipping for perishable and temperature-sensitive goods.
David Bennett of Schneider Logistics addresses how shippers, ocean carriers, and trucking companies are struggling with responsibility for providing chassis for cargo container units at ports; Boeing appoints new VP to handle 787 Dreamliner delays; companies restructure outsourced technology contracts.
Will rail reregulation untie captive shippers but tie up rail productivity?
A&R Logistics' Morris, Ill., dry bulk intermodal facility specializes in hauling plastics. Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly tours the operation.
The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index
Amtrak’s Chicago Gateway Blue Ribbon Panel released its report this month and made a number of recommendations to improve the flow of rail operations in the Chicago area.
Inbound Logistics dredges up data on the leading U.S. container hubs.
Tim Thoma, international logistics and compliance manager at Northern Tool and Equipment, is responsible for moving product purchased from overseas.
After 30 site visits and two logistics industry conferences, Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo wonders what the future of supply chain and logistics holds.
Inbound Logistics exclusive trucking market research report delivers shipper and motor carrier insights into trucking challenges and trends.
Core carriers participating in leveraged platforms typically receive consistent, attractive internal freight volumes and specific lanes of business.
New York State minimum wage directive may be a tipping point for automation in the fast food industry; Organic food recalls are on the rise; Alix Partners reports that nearshoring trend continues to grow; Pro truck interests take weight restriction fight in new direction; 2015 holiday shoppers are looking for options; The cash handling supply chain is poised to move from manual processing to scanning technology, thanks to the new GS1 US Cash Visibility Discussion Group.
Ocean carrier dependability dips for the first time in six months; Low water conditions force Panama Canal to consider draught restrictions; IKEA invests in Romanian forest; Germany greenlights Daimler’s self-driving truck pilot program; Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) looks to create a global traceability too for seafood supply chain.
As the deadline for PTC implementation looms, Class II and Class III railroads will likely find that the Class Is demand their participation in both PTC capital implementation costs and ongoing maintenance costs.
When every dollar counts, along with every mile, shippers need to know which carriers are keeping them on a course to profitability. That’s why carrier metrics are so important.
Use these seven tips to find a partner in China that is right for your company.
An on-board video solution helps fleet managers review driver performance and improve fleet safety.
Automatic Identification System (AIS) can provide analytics that enable companies to more accurately predict ship arrival times.
Understanding less-than-truckload shipping challenges is the key to overcoming them.
If you are driving through Nevada and see a truck driver reading a book…don’t freak out.
The Panama Canal expansion will provide many businesses with opportunities for growth on a global scale.
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
To help save money, shippers should build a strong relationship with their LTL carrier.
Martin Associates report points to the importance of continuing U.S. port investment; Henry Ford College introduces associates degree in supply chain management; Freight Can't Wait program encourages Congress to earmark funding exclusively for freight infrastructure projects; Manufacturers are finding better ways to engineer and prototype products using 3D printing technology; McDonald's pledges to lessen impact on global deforestation throughout its entire supply chain.
Trans Pacific Partnership nears resolution; Indonesia logistics industry fights new capital requirement regulation; China and Pakistan pave way for new trade corridor; Global ocean container trade shows signs of growth despite enduring supply-demand imbalance; European railroads partner around procurement; China looks to replicate U.S. rail freight model
Shippers making simple, but meaningful changes can go a long way with helping carriers attract and retain drivers.
Tired of being forced off the track, Class I Railroads are taking a stand in court over track-sharing privileges with Amtrak.
These five steps will ensure carriers can provide capacity when you need it most.
To drive efficiency, intermodal stakeholders need to fit their processes together.
Larger container ships pose new risks and liabilities... Peel Group invests in oil and gas business while European interests dry up... Scientists raise concerns about Nicaragua canal environmental impact.
Port of Beirut plan for transshipment expansion irks truckers; New treaty greenlights Ghent–Terneuzen Canal lock upgrade; China-Europe rail development continues with UTi and Changjiu partnership; Global suppliers still laggard when it comes to environmental mitigation; Hong Kong looks to ease industrial real estate regs to create more warehouse capacity.
A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.
Developing an efficient and safe warehouse can be challenging. Use this advice to get the most out of your warehouse.
United States and Canada are investing $7 billion in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system; Changing political relations between the United States and Cuba could signal new trade opportunities; UK faces a truck driver shortage among younger people; Panama approves new port development
United States gives Mexican truck drivers the green light for cross-border moves; Uber pilots cargo service in Hong Kong; Latin American rail freight market ripe for investment; Panama Canal Authority restructures its toll system; Turkey and Iran toil over truck fees; Global airfreight market set for steady growth; Lithuania railroad faces antitrust inquiry over competitive switching practices
Driverless trucks may be a solution to the truck driver shortage in the future, but here are some ideas for how to cope now.
United Kingdom establishes national training center for fracking; China and Jamaica team up on logistics training initiatives; UK port constraints push freight flows north; Middle East air cargo carriers show robust growth
Maersk Line helps one of their top refrigerated export customers overcome an operational challenge.
As the Panama Canal expansion nears completion, several trends and trade dynamics will determine the impact on U.S. shippers and consignees.
Andy Yablin, vice president, transportation at Scholastic Inc., is responsible for transportation from manufacturing facilities to distribution centers, and from distribution centers to customers.
Using the spot market correctly can reduce backlogs of shipping and keep costs under control.
Before negotiating rail rates, gain a thorough understanding of your rail freight needs and the current market.
OSHA issues updates to its Hazard Communication Standard; HP’s Dave Thomas addresses the importance of data quality; Ohio Trucking Association debuts military exhibition class at truck driving competition; Companies fail to use procurement in a strategic way; Shippers planning ahead for labor disruptions.
Shippers desperately seek capacity in the midst of a record shortage.
Tracking carrier performance metrics gives shippers insight into how well trucking companies serve their needs.
Managing transportation strategies requires a team effort — and sometimes a ‘dedicated’ transportation partner.
Motor carrier safety standards dictated by state courts create confusion. National safety standards are more effective.
Treat truck drivers respectfully to build a good reputation with carriers and ensure load coverage.
Fleet managers increasingly rely on electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) to manage fleet data.
Federal legislators have taken notice of the issues relating to motor carrier due diligence caused largely by CSA.
Google and Barnes & Noble partner to provide same-day book delivery; Shippers prioritize day-to-day problem-solving over contingency planning; APICS and SCC merge; Transplace identifies four areas key to preferred shipper status
TAJ Flooring used a transportation management system to improve shipment and freight spend visibility.
New federal emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks may prompt fleet operators to invest in new equipment.
Leverage Panama’s developments into your distribution hub for a more streamlined, efficient, and profitable bottom line.
Less than truckload (LTL) carriers use online freight portals to offer low-cost extra capacity to small shippers.
SaaS TMS solutions allow shippers, carriers, suppliers, and consignees to conduct business on a single platform.
Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.
With an integrated transportation management software (TMS) platform, service providers can gain complete visibility over their diverse and complex operations.
TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network
U.S. industry looks to Europe for materials handling and omnichannel innovation; Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport pilots new remote scanning program; Ocean carriers struggle with schedule reliability; WTO projects an uptick in global trade for 2014; Falling freight rates help Brazilian sugar exporters seize market share.
Track sensors monitor rails for signs of buckling or breakage, improving rail freight safety.
NRF’s Big Show unveils trends in the retail industry; Local couriers provide a solution to capacity constraints and empower same-day delivery; Ocean carrier industry beset by imbalances; Global RFID market primed for robust growth; Shippers plan for supply chain exceptions
U.S. government aims to create single-window, paper-less Customs process; Deutsche Post predicts positive growth for global express business; China looks to develop more logistics centers upstream on the Yangtze River; Canada-Mexico trade imbalance tops NAFTA summit; Mexican railroads object to proposed reform bill
Innovative route planning tools create meaningful links between long-range planning and real-world agility.
Supply chain partner collaboration improves supply chain performance, create capabilities, and increase efficiencies.
Alaska’s extreme weather and geography create logistics challenges for shippers moving cargo to, from, and in the state.
New Jersey’s salty tale misplaces blame on the Jones Act; UPS unveils new hazmat shipping protocol; Automakers collaborate to map the auto supply chain
Partnering with third-party logistics providers offers shippers numerous advantages for stronger supply chains.
Hunter Harrison documents the culture change that has contributed to Canadian Pacific’s rail renaissance; Global companies more concerned about climate risk than emissions reductions; Deadline for new ISO17712:2013 high-security seal standards is fast approaching; Lack of collaboration between supply chain and finance hurts the bottom line
Molson Coors Canada’s new delivery planning system integrates routing, pallet building, and truck loading.
Fluctuating fuel prices, Hours of Service rules, and other factors make optimized routing and scheduling vital.
Shippers and trucking brokers must understand the differences among the service levels carriers offer.
When choosing core carriers, evaluate customer service, on-time delivery, company stability, and workforce quality.
Infrastructure remains India's greatest supply chain challenge; Canadian e-commerce market is catching up to speed; Maersk, Mediterranean Shipping Co. and CMA CGM form P3 Alliance
Flexible tanks turn dry vans into bulk liquid transportation, creating capacity and increasing backhaul opportunities.
Ocean shipping lines have made significant progress to optimize operations, leading to reduced costs and environmental impact.
Expedited shipping modes are a crucial part of shippers’ planned transportation strategies.
Mixing truckload, less-than-truckload, and rail options allows shippers to create efficient intermodal solutions.
Shippers must adapt to accommodate federal Hours-of-Service rules affecting the time truck drivers can be on the road.
Regulatory compliance is top supply chain challenge for healthcare executives; Ohio’s transportation funding plan pays dividends with bridge repair program; GM saves $40 million a year by co-locating stamping and assembly facilities; Collaboration is the key to sustained procurement savings; U.S. domestic intermodal surpasses international as growth driver.
Railroads are investing in new safety processes, technology and policies to ensure cargo security and prevent accidents.
A resource for information on steamship line service offerings, capabilities, and new developments.
Integrated transportation solutions allow shippers to optimize modes, and meet capacity and service requirements.
Shipper and motor carrier responses to Inbound Logistics’ market research survey indicate trucking trends.
Technology such as onboard recording devices help trucking companies gain insight and cut costs.
Shipper and motor carrier responses to Inbound Logistics’ market research survey indicate trucking trends.
New Hours-of-Service regulations impact trucking companies, driver, and shippers; Restaurant chain Chipotle struggles to maintain supplier standards in the face of growing demand; U.S. Postal Service changes Priority Mail line-up to grow package business
Partnering with diversified and specialized truckers can help shippers who are struggling to find freight capacity.
Shippers must take steps to supplement inadequate government reviews of motor carrier safety.
Intermodal shipping offers benefits such as reduced transportation costs, reduced carbon emissions, and safety.
Exporter Anderson Hay & Grain saved on transport costs by installing trailer side skirts that boost fuel efficiency.
U.S. furniture manufacturers rely on specialized furniture carriers and white-glove delivery companies.
Natural gas fuel can help the trucking industry reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but only if gas leaks are minimized.
Hong Kong strike threatens port’s reputation, shakes up competition; DUBAL turns to SAP for inbound control; NAFTA cross-border trade grows for second consecutive year amid recurring safety concerns; Texas pushes for heavier produce trucks from Mexico
Maximizing truck utilization, managing Hours of Service regulations, and finding enough drivers pose major challenges for trucking companies, says Scott Vanselous of TMW Systems.
Lars Kloch of SBS Worldwide, looks at the impact of slow steaming containerships on supply chain reliability, speed, and transport costs.
While it promises supply chain sustainability gains, using compressed natural gas as a transportation fuel requires multi-step capital and operating considerations, writes Casey Whelan of U.S. Energy Services.
Transloading shipments allows shippers to reduce touches and costs, and create greater flexibility to respond to changing demand in global shipments.
North American railroads benefit from crude oil demand as pipeline debate lingers; E-commerce growth places new demands on DC development; American Automobile Association weighs in on truck weight restrictions; Mid-sized consumer packaged goods companies struggle with retailer demands; BNSF announces plans to pilot natural gas-powered locomotives; Air freight industry struggles amid sluggish global economy
The new wave of less than containerload (LCL) ocean services combines well-established networks, improved reporting, more certain delivery times, and end-to-end pricing.
Shippers, carriers, brokers, and third-party logistics (3PL) providers use electronic loadboards to communicate opportunities, whether it's freight to be shipped or trucks to be filled.
As Panama Canal expansion nears completion, global shippers gain a viable alternative for shipping ocean cargo from Asia to U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports.
Shippers must develop clear and effective request for pricing (RFP) processes to secure the best less-than-truckload service. Danny Slaton of SMC3 offers tips for developing better RFPs.
Expedited services transport cargo by air, sea, or ground to meet shippers’ demands for consistent, on-time delivery with short lead times.
Whether a company is looking to reduce driver turnover costs or vet a business partner to make sure it has the necessary resources to deliver acceptable customer service, maintaining a dedicated recruitment and retention strategy communicates a strong message both internally and within the extended value chain.
Inbound raw materials and components and outbound shipments that are centrally crossdocked, then line-hauled to final destination, support Lean manufacturing and ensure just-in-time inventory, writes David J. DiSanto of DiSanto & Associates.
Supply chain partners are taking cues from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and making concerted efforts to share and apply security best practices throughout their organizations and supply chain operations, says Howard Finkel of COSCO Container Lines Americas.
The complexity of ocean freight contracts requires shippers to negotiate carefully with carriers so both parties can find beneficial terms.
Inbound Logistics' annual Ocean Carrier Guide outlines where ocean carriers are investing capital, and how they are enhancing fleets, services, solutions, and coverage areas to better meet ocean shipping demands.
When it needs equipment and consistent service, Dawn Food Products turns to RWI Transportation as one of its core carriers to deliver.
Mobile trucking communications technology signals new productivity gains for truckers, and helps improve truck driver safety.
Midwest drought draws attention to BNSF Logistics’ “ag in a box" solution; Nussbaum takes driver safety performance to a new level with Driver Excelerator; Alaska considers the possibility of freight-floating blimps; Railcar data points to cooling economic trends; P&G and EPA partner to develop supply chain sustainability assessment tools
Some new trucking regulations – and proposed changes to rules and legislation – have a major affect on motor carriers. Here’s a look at these changes, and how they could affect shippers.
Having a financing partner that specializes in the transportation industry is important for trucking companies because it will understand their capital needs, collateral values, and financing alternatives, says Nick Weaver, Regions Bank.
When capacity becomes tight, maintaining relationships with asset-based carriers gives shippers the peace of mind of knowing their supply chain and service will remain seamless and fluid, says Terrence M. Gilbert, CEO, New Century Transportation.
Unless the trucking sector adds drivers and equipment, shortages will continue, says Bo Bates, The Evans Network of Companies.
The results of our trucking industry research report include in-depth analysis of the trends, challenges, and regulations that affect both shippers, truck drivers, and trucking companies.
Inbound Logistics' annual trucking issue assesses the challenges and opportunities that await the trucking industry during this period of rapid change, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Southwest Airlines introduces cargo tracking device; Supply chains are challenged by product recalls; Reliability is key to ocean shipping success; Genesee & Wyoming, RailAmerica merger puts rail shippers and economy back on track; Integrated services key to outsourcing success
Recent pronouncements by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration signal the agency’s retreat from its statutory and historical oversight of carrier safety in favor of placing more due diligence responsibilities on shippers and brokers.
By incorporating containerization into downstream transportation and upstream supply chain workflows, companies can improve asset utilization, use fewer trucks, drive fewer miles, reduce fuel costs, and enhance distribution center operations, writes Fabrizio Brasca, JDA Software.
Traffic congestion and infrastructure limitations can complicate shipment deliveries in major cities. Carriers such as DHL and UPS use network engineering, communication tools, and contingency planning to ensure they meet customer needs.
Less-than-containerload (LCL) services are expanding to meet shippers’ need for a cost-effective approach to smaller ocean freight volumes.
Demand for less-than-containerload (LCL) services is rising among global importer and exporters whose business models rely on cost, inventory control, and supply chain visibility. Greg Scott of CEVA Logistics discusses how the oil and gas, retail, and automotive industries are using LCL services to their advantage.
Intermodal rail facilities located around the United States allow shippers to save transportation costs and move goods efficiently. Transportation infrastructure, a skilled workforce, logistics service providers, and affordable utilities support the manufacturing and distribution facilities located in these intermodal hubs.
Trucking load boards have evolved from bulletin boards in truck stops to sophisticated social networking-style tools on handheld computers. Charles Myers of uShip.com outlines the benefits of the evolved load board.
Ocean shippers can take steps to help ensure containers are delivered on time, writes Lars Kloch, managing director, USA, SBS Worldwide.
Electronics manufacturer Siemens switches from air freight to over-the-road transport for cross-border shipments from Mexico to the United States and Canada, cutting 35 percent from its transportation costs thanks to CFI Logistica.
The demands of volatile markets and structural changes taking place in the ocean freight sector make strong shipper/carrier partnerships beneficial to both parties.
Incoterms are an internationally accepted set of standard commercial terms used between buyers and sellers. J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road helps shippers understand these rules.
BNSF invests in rail infrastructure improvements; Logistics outsourcing reflects economic pressures; Cargo theft rises, but value of stolen goods drops; Port of Indiana- Burns Harbor sees atypical winter vessel traffic thanks to warm weather; Women in logistics climb the corporate ladder
Recently retired from a 40-year career with less-than-truckload carrier ABF, former president and CEO Wes Kemp shares his insights on the transportation industry, trucking regulation, and the importance of logistics and supply chain education.
As more manufacturers establish plants in Mexico, and as Mexican railroads improve their infrastructure and services, demand for rail transportation within the country and across the border with the U.S. continues to rise.
On-demand content delivered via cloud-based tools such as CarrierConnect XL help shippers connect with less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers, writes Danny Slaton of SMC3.
Shippers can avoid load board scams by taking the time to research the companies with which they do business, writes Jeff Vielhaber, TTS.
Driver turnover takes a significant hit to motor carriers’ bottom lines, undermines safety performance and customer service, and exacerbates the capacity shortage. Trent Dye of Paramount Freight Systems explains why focusing on retaining drivers makes more sense than trying to recruit new ones.
Nussbaum Trucking and Wabash National collaborated with appliance maker Electrolux to create the X-duty trailer, which combines the protection and security of a dry van with the strength of a heavy-duty flatbed trailer, allowing Electrolux to use the same trucks for its inbound raw material and outbound finished goods shipments.
Trucking companies around the world are looking to boost fuel economy by improving driver behavior, and they are using on-board technology to monitor and control what goes on behind the wheel.
A group of determined leaders, engineers, and industrialists helped drive the westward expansion of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Shippers can ensure ocean cargo security by taking steps such as using C-TPAT checklists, performing random container inspections, applying security seals, shipping through secured ports, conducting security training, and following U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.
Plumbing fixture manufacturer TOTO Global Group’s U.S. division tapped third-party logistics provider Transplace to benchmark its truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal freight spend.
Intermodal shipping reduces transport costs by rationalizing long-haul bulk moves between road, barge, rail, and occasionally air, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Paul Hammes of Union Pacific outlines how rail industry infrastructure investments provide capacity and reliable service to the agriculture industry.
ChemLogix’s Stephen Hamilton explains why limited truck capacity and fuel costs make intermodal an attractive transportation alternative.
Inbound Logistics spoke to CEOs at five leading motor carriers and logistics service providers about the issues driving change for their companies and the industry.
Inbound Logistics' annual motor carrier survey provides an in-depth look at the trucking sector, addressing growth areas and obstacles such as CSA, hours of service rules, capacity and driver shortages, fuel surcharges, and freight brokerage.
Curt Shewchuck, chief security officer, Con-way Freight discusses how the carrier's security protocols helped avert a terrorist threat.
No longer hauling just fresh produce and other groceries, today’s truck and trailer refrigeration systems also keep other high-value loads at ideal temperatures and humidity levels so they arrive safely at their final destinations, writes Thermo King’s Tom Kampf.
Motor freight carriers employ a variety of strategies to keep cargo secure in transit, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Best-in-class service parts excellence relies on integration; Truckers are wary about new equipment investments; CSA rules confuse truckers; Amazon invests in new products and warehouses; AAR and Amtrak relations derail
Cargo theft is a greater concern than terrorism; University of Tennessee creates advisory board of shipper supply chain executives; Trucks to dominate tonnage and revenue over the next decade; State DOTs get lean and green; Inland ports grow in importance; Best Buy consolidates its brick and mortar presence
Shipping and logistics professionals facing stricter emissions regulations and rising diesel prices will have an opportunity to take control of their fleets and realize the fuel and cost savings selective catalytic reduction brings, writes Chad Dombroski of Yara North America.
Carrier-supplied data can provide valuable insight for writing contracts, but shippers who want to pave the way to strong business relationships must dig deeper.
Containerization reshaped ocean shipping, spurring further innovations such as bigger ships, giant cranes, suburban ports, and intermodal transportation. Future trends will include challenges including how to accommodate ever-larger ships, how to guarantee a chassis supply for shippers and how the dynamics of fuel costs, vessel size, and sailing schedules will impact container rates.
As U.S. railroads and agricultural businesses embark on a new era of relevance, they are encountering new opportuniteis working together, and old grievances working apart.
CSA 2010 guidelines can benefit shippers by increasing carrier attention to driver safety, writes David Strand, Wholesale Truck & Finance.
Equipping shipments with container security devices (CSDs) can help expedite inspections, decrease insurance premiums, and minimize supply chain disruptions. Jim Giermanski of Powers Global Holdings outlines the benefits of CSDs.
Mark Malambri, CEVA Logistics, offers tips to help shippers reduce costs and increase efficiencies when purchasing ocean freight services.
Intermodal transportation stitches together Alaska's 663,268 square miles of rugged terrain, presenting challenges and opportunities for intrepid shippers.
Charlie Hitt, 3PD Inc., offers tips for implementing a successful core carrier program.
If you don't file accurate import data with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, you put your company at risk for penalties and fines, warns Kevin Shoemaker, director, global solutions for Integration Point Inc.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Roadability Rule has shifted responsibility for obtaining and maintaining chassis to shippers and drayage companies.
Although a driver shortage is imminent, many supply chain professionals have yet to grasp how it will affect capacity. Here's a guide.
Strategic transportation management puts shippers on the road to increased fuel economy and improved asset utilization.
Dubai makes progress on its first aerotropolis, Starbucks partners with China to set up its first coffee bean farm, Canadian National accelerates auto imports, United Kingdom and France work to counter terrorism, Marks & Spencer accelerates supply chain improvement plan
When expediting shipments, visibility, communication, and customer service get into gear.
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
Heineken implements inland barge distribution in Europe; CMA CGM, MSC, and Maersk Line partner to fight piracy; PepsiCo UK and Ireland help farm suppliers cut carbon emissions and water usage; New Dubai Logistics Corridor facilitates UAE trade; Japanese economy shows signs of rebound; Taiwan launches project to improve logistics performance.
Russia developing a super-heavy cargo plane; Suppliers cannot meet Northern Europe's demand for wind power equipment; United Arab Emirates top re-exporter of rice; Outsourcing grows in Brazil; FedEx Express expands expedited offerings in China; Luxembourg-based 3PL introduces new multimodal hanging garment container to Australian apparel industry.
U.S. transportation spending lags, according to Transportation Performance Indexes; International air cargo traffic increases; Ocean volumes rise; Large corporations band together to help smaller suppliers sell goods and services to global companies.
Weather the driver shortage by keeping detention low and utilization high, practicing good communication, staying flexible in scheduling, and taking advantage of dedicated drivers and equipment.
Shippers shouldn't assume all on-time performance is created equal. Make sure every dollar you spend counts by choosing carriers who provide honest, accurate metrics, and foster innovation to improve your business.
Faced with challenges such as a capacity shortage and lack of qualified drivers, companies that ship product by truck are learning that working collaboratively with carriers can benefit both parties.
Our annual motor carrier survey provides an in-depth look at the trucking sector, addressing growth areas and obstacles.
Increased regulation in the form of CSA 2010 affects not only truckers, but also freight brokers providing insurance, according to Mike Williams, chief operating officer, Sunteck Transport Group.
Is there a war on trucking? CSA 2010, cap and trade, and Hours of Service changes are challenging the ability of truckers to operate profitably in America, says Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo
Mexico Taxes U.S. Imports, Audi's carbon friendly cars and carbon friendly transportation, Australia labors over transportation expansion, UPS opens health care logistics hubs in Singapore and China, U.S. football imports from China
Gulf ports maintain container volumes despite Deepwater Horizon oil spill; Supply chain leaders climb the corporate ladder; Toyota Material Handling engineers work with MIT scientists and the U.S. Army to develop a remote-operated fork lift
Fully implementing cross-border trucking policy benefits both the United States and Mexico, writes Kyle Burns of Free Trade Alliance.
A combined truck-and-rail transport approach cuts costs and offers environmental benefits, writes John Patton of Trinity Transport Inc.
A small town in New York supports the Livonia, Avon & Lakeville Railroad (LA&L); Procter and Gamble plans an online outlet.
As truckload prices starting to rise, more shippers are choosing stability over short-term cost advantages, writes Jerry DeMeuse of Schneider Logistics.
BNSF Railway's Belen, N.M., rail yard serves as a regional maintenance and fueling facility for trains up to 10,000 feet long. Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly offers a behind-the-scenes look.
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly visits New Jersey's Port Elizabeth, one of the East Coast's busiest intermodal ports.
Shippers use overseas consolidation, strategic loading tactics, and container sharing to cast off ocean transportation's financial burden.


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The luxury industry has long had its eyes on China when it comes to initiatives for eco-friendly practices, with conglomerates like Kering making major moves for bringing sustainability into its China relationships. But even on a more local level, eco-friendly efforts have been gaining momentum in the country. Across China, a growing number of high-end designers are working to promote sustainability throughout the fashion cycle, from the drawing board, to encouraging conscious purchasing decisions by the smart modern shopper. At the forefront of these efforts is the world’s largest sustainable fashion competition, the EcoChic Design Award, now underway.
This year’s program has had an overwhelming response, receiving applications from designers in 46 countries across Asia, Europe, and the United States. From China, they have a wide pool of applicants with all levels of experience, from cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Nanjing, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou. Redress’s Education Director Kay Liu said, “We are very impressed by their designs, and overall this region has shown huge improvements in both skill and understanding of sustainability over the seven-year competition history which we are incredibly encouraged by.”
Organized by Hong Kong based NGO Redress, the organization encourages emerging designers and students to create fashion pieces with minimal textile waste each competition cycle. The EcoChic Design Award has expanded this year to include applications from the United States and is preparing to announce its first 24 semi-finalists chosen by two panels later this month. The regional judging panels include world-renowned designers like Vega Wang, Stefan Siegel, and Sabyasachi Mukherjee.
Redress created the competition partly in response to an increase in the number of universities seeking help in arranging sustainable fashion-focused lectures and classes to broaden students’ access to industry resources and knowledge. Liu said the NGO has seen a lot of positive change, clearly evident in the increased demand for sustainable fashion education. “That’s one reason why we took our EcoChic Design Award learning platform and talk series to the next stage and developed educator packs for lecturers to deliver by themselves to feed this growing demand,” she said.
Along the way, Redress has partnered with a number of initiatives in China to promote its cause, including GreenCode at Shanghai Fashion Week, a program complete with workshops, talks, a fashion show, and a pop-up shop drawing attention to sustainability, eco-friendliness, and related issues in the fashion industry. Liu also recently spoke at the H&M Circular Fashion Salon in Beijing, co-hosted by Redress, exploring what a sustainable fashion future could look like.
While there continues to be room to grow in terms of awareness on the consumer side, major players in the industry continue to work to push discussions and applications of sustainability and social responsibility in all its forms China. In December, for example, China non-profit Green Initiatives launched RE:FORM, a program that aims to collaborate with retailers and consumers to help put an end to textile waste, while the Eco Design Fair in Shanghai in late May signals the positive direction of eco-friendly fashion in the Chinese market.
Meanwhile, EcoChic’s finalists from China have continued to grow their reach as well by partnering with local high-end brands that have built up years of rapport with shoppers in mainland China. Hong Kong luxury fashion house Shanghai Tang, for example, worked with EcoChic Design Award winners Kevin Germanier and Patrycja Guzik from the 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 cycles to create a limited collection from leftover luxury fabrics to be sold in stores. EcoChic Design Award finalist Tiffany Pattinson, who runs her environmentally conscious brand Tiffany Pattinson from Shanghai, is also one of several homegrown brands looking to prove fashion can be stylish and sustainable.
Last cycle’s Chinese finalists, including Tsang Fan Yu and Esther Lui from Hong Kong as well as Pan Wen from mainland China, are still actively pushing forward sustainability in their work. Tsang Fan Yu is preparing his fashion label TSANGFANYU, which recently launched a small capsule collection exploring sustainable fashion design techniques. Esther Lui recently moved to Australia to work for an Australian wedding brand. She is also starting a collection of gowns in which she is using textile waste as the fabric. And Central Saint Martins grad and former Alexander McQueen intern Pan Wen is currently planning design collaborations with local artists.
While the rise in awareness among consumers in China on the fashion industry’s impact on health and pollution still has room for growth, the Redress team is encouraged by the enthusiasm from industry players thus far. Last year, they put together an overview of some of the successes and challenges in Asia thus far in a documentary called Frontline Fashion, which they continue to screen in China and around the world to raise awareness ahead of the competition finals and runway show, which will kick off in September.


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After experiencing a severe free-fall loss for the whole week, Bitcoin has recovered by 14%. In October, the US Consumer Price Index increased less than anticipated. For the rise to continue, $15,588 must not be crossed. After experiencing a drop akin to a monsoon earlier in the week, the price of bitcoin is now seeing a commendable counterattack. Investors wonder whether a secure market bottom is in as the price rises. Key levels have been highlighted to determine BTC's (1) likely future move.
The price rebounds
Since breaking new annual lows on November 9, the peer-to-peer digital currency, bitcoin, has rallied impressively, rising 14%. BTC still has to do more to convince investors to place bids on shorter time scales. However, the prospect of more gains should not be completely discounted.
At this time, the price of one bitcoin is $17,644. Market participants were taken aback by the US Consumer Index Pricing (2) since they had anticipated a higher number. Even while the CPI came in lower than predicted, at 7.7, the Fed still believes the rate is too high to stop increasing inflation. The erratic behavior of Bitcoin in response to the news shows that high-cap players are snatching up Bitcoin at its reduced price.
The next aim for Bitcoin is $19,899, which would put it briefly back into the $20,000 zone and take into account the increase in transactions on the Volume Profile Index. On the swing low at $15,888, staying untagged, the strength of the uptrend will be determined. There might be a further loss of $14,900 if the bears break through the barrier. The value of Bitcoin would fall by 14% due to such a move.


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San Francisco, California, USA, lawyers rescued Wal-Mart and a group of petfood manufacturers on March 16 from a class action that could have led to millions of dollars in damages, according to an article on www.Law.com .
A federal judge in Nevada, USA, granted a motion by the defense to pre-emptively deny certification to a class of plaintiffs that would have spanned eight states, including California.
Margaret Picus, a Nevada woman, filed a class action in state court against Wal-Mart and a group of food manufacturers in April 2007, alleging that they illegally labeled their petfood "Made in USA," though some ingredients were imported from China.
The previous month, the Food and Drug Administration had announced that certain petfood ingredients imported from China were sickening and killing cats and dogs.
US District Judge Philip Pro of Nevada denied Picus class certification in Picus v. Wal-Mart Stores, 07-00682, ruling that subjective, individual issues made a class action the wrong way to handle the case. Specifically, Pro wrote in his decision, the law requires the plaintiffs to prove that each person who bought the tainted petfood did so because it was labeled "Made in USA."
By Lindsay Beaton
As work continues on creating a new nutrition label that focuses on simplifying information for consumers, challenges remain.
By Tang Yu


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Alcoa to Expand North American Aluminum Sheet Production
May 7, 2013—Fabricated aluminum producer Alcoa recently announced a major North American expansion to meet the growing demand for light, durable and recyclable aluminum sheet metal for automotive production.
Alcoa will invest $275 million over the next three years to expand its rolling mill in Alcoa, Tenn. The goal is to support automotive manufacturers’ plans to use more aluminum sheet in order to increase vehicle fuel efficiency, safety, durability and performance. Klaus Kleinfeld, chairman and CEO of Alcoa, said auto manufacturers are expected to quadruple use of aluminum by 2015. He anticipates a tenfold increase by 2025.
During the expansion project, Alcoa will also convert some of the plant's can sheet capacity to high-strength automotive aluminum capacity.
Alcoa said the project will incorporate its proprietary "Alcoa 951" pre-treatment bonding technology, which enables adhesive bonding of automotive structures and facilitates more cost-effective, mass production of aluminum-intensive vehicles. The “Alcoa 951” technology has become the new pre-treatment bonding standard for aluminum sheet, extrusion and casting suppliers throughout the automotive industry.
"Our technology solutions are helping to drive the continued penetration of aluminum into the automotive market," said Ray Kilmer, executive vice president and chief technology officer for Alcoa. "We are enabling not just increased penetration, but we are working with OEMs to do it cost effectively in high-volume automotive applications, which necessitates our automotive expansions."
The expansion will begin this month, and is scheduled to be completed by 2015. The plant will add roughly 200 full-time jobs upon completion.


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One shiny premise of DeFi or decentralized finance—a catch-all term for cryptocurrencies and blockchain projects related to the exchange of value—is that by spreading out and automating operations, and removing power from middlemen like banks, it can offer a system more resilient to global forces, able to survive events like war and economic downturns that pummel traditional markets. Some industry insiders have even suggested crypto could be a good investing bet to ride out a potential recession. Now in our current precarious financial climate, with the traditional market slipping dramatically and Big Tech stocks plummeting, that theory of resilience is getting a real-life road test. And the results are not great.
Bitcoin has taken its own nose dive in the past few weeks, Ethereum, and others have dipped as well. As “Web2” tech companies like Amazon and Netflix watch their stock drop, Coinbase—one of the top three crypto exchange platforms—and Robinhood—which supports crypto trading—have seen theirs falling right alongside. Even popular proof-of-stake network Solana has seen its coin drop in value by about 80% since its all-time high in November. But the big crash came last week, when major algorithmic stablecoin TerraUSD (UST) dramatically tanked. A $100 stake in UST last Monday was worth just $18 by Sunday morning; that much in its sister token, LUNA, is worth pennies now.
Stablecoins, as the name suggests, are designed to be the rocks of the crypto ecosystem, pegged sturdily to real-world assets like the dollar. Exchanges use stablecoins to even out the volatility of other coins, and crypto investors may favor them as a safer bet to park money. They have served their function pretty well so far, although questions around consumer safety and their potential for illicit activity have certainly


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Analysts from SuperData (via VG247) shared statistics regarding the gaming industry for June, saying
What is known
The biggest release of the month was Crash Team RacingNitro-Fueled, which sold 552 thousand digital copies. This is a record result among racing games for consoles, which is closely matched by The Crew 2. At the same time, the developers set a new bar for the Crash Bandicoot brand.
Activision was also pleased with Overwatch, which earned the company $1 billion from in-game purchases.
Champagne can also be opened by Ubisoft.In June, Rainbow Six Siege broke its own record for monthly player activity. In addition, “Siege” brought in $36.8 million for the company just from in-game purchases across all platforms. This is 50% more than Ubisoft received in May, and only 9% better compared to June last year.
The list of leaders on various platforms remainsunchanged. On PC, League of Legends is still the leader, console gamers are more likely to choose Fortnite, and fans of mobile games continue to grow the audience of Honor of Kings.


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Wipers for a motorcycle helmet visor are not new, nor are they very good, but the Rainpal electric wiper promises to wipe away all your vision issues.
London designer Adam Aarons says his invention is patent pending and he hopes to produce it with the help of a crowdfunding project.
Final retail will be £49.99 (about A$95) and £99.99 (A$199) for Rainpal with wireless including delivery to Australia and globally.
It will come with a guarantee to fit all curved visors or your money back.
“It’s about time someone helped motorcyclists,” Adam says.
“My journey so far has been really exciting. My idea to cure the stress and safety issues of struggling to ride with a rain-soaked visor is now complete. My light weight, effective and tested Rainpal works in the real world. There has never been the option of clearer vision in the rain.”
He says it will fit curved visors on full face, flip-up, bandit and open-face helmets and come in matt or gloss black, pearlescent or luminous white, US or UK flag with more flags to be released.
“We have already taken orders from Australia so maybe an Aussie flag version,” Adam says.
The wiper attaches to the top of the wiper shaft via a one click attachment/detachment click system as some riders have said they will leave Rainpal on their visor all the time (Rainpal is 1.3cm by 1.3 cm) and merely attach the wiper when it rains.
“Rainfall has been designed so the wiper snaps off in an impact for added safety far easier than the pressure to break a visor,” Adam says.
Rainpal is less than 1.3cm in height and width, and features a spring-loaded wiper to push against the visor.
“Total weight is about 150grams so that’s about 8% of a full-face helmet so not noticeable,” Adam says.
It clips over the top of the visor and includes a motor and swappable battery packs that can be charged separately via USB or a charger socket.
They are good for 90 minutes on continuous wipe but should Rainpal be set for a delay wipe then it doubles.
“We feel this will cover most ride times,” Adam says.
There is also a wireless model operated via a control which fits to different diameter handlebars like a watch strap.
While police in some Australian states have been issuing fines for attachments of cameras to helmets because they make it non-compliant, this shouldn’t be an issue because of its size.
“Although we have not looked at every country as far as we are aware it does not need compliance as it is not optical or a protection item,” Adam says.
“There might be an issue in your part of the world as Victoria have laws outlining attachments to helmets.”
Adam claims it will provide the same clear vision as in a car with the wipers on.
His release claims: “Drizzle and spray from trucks will be much less of a problem now with an integrated water spray and wiper for less strained eyes which if strained too much may lead to earlier deterioration of your eyesight and often producing a headache, tiredness from the additional concentration of not being able to see clearly. All these are reduced with Rainpal.”
Adam started posting on Facebook in January 2016 and has had nearly one million views, over 4000 Likes, over 5000 shares in less than two months.
They are still working on a prototype.
For more details, click here.


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|Zenith Lowers Price On 60 Inch Plasma To Under $15,000|
|Home Theater News Plasma HDTV News|
|Written by AVRev.com|
|Tuesday, 25 June 2002|
Zenith has introduced a new, higher-brightness, high-contrast 60-inch HDTV display at a breakthrough price, the first 60-inch PDP with a suggested price under $15,000. Announced earlier this year at a suggested price of $20,000, the 60-inch PDP model P60W26 is now available at a suggested price of $14,999.
Zenith also has repositioned the other big, flat and thin models in its 2002 PDP line, including the new 50-inch P50W26 16:9 HDTV Monitor, the 42-inch P42W22B 16:9 EDTV (enhanced-definition television) Monitor, and the 40-inch P40V22 4:3 EDTV Monitor. The P50W26, available in August, will carry a new suggested price of $10,999 (reduced from $12,000). The P42W22B and P40V22, available now, both carry suggested prices of $4,999 (reduced from $6,000).
Because of the advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities of its parent company, LG Electronics, Zenith is now able to offer some of the industry’s best performance-value combination for plasma displays. Unlike high performance audio, plasma TVs have a “wow” factor that transcends AV enthusiasts and appeals directly to middle America. At $5,000, Plasma sets are still expensive but the trend is certainly headed in the right direction for more and more AV enthusiasts. Factor in the potential of upwards of 20 HDTV channels if the DirecTV-EchoStar merger is approved, you might start to see hundreds of thousands of new consumers enter the market which will only serve to drop prices even lower.


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Thousands of Chrysler vehicles can be hacked into from any computer connected to the internet, cutting out breaks, steering and transmission, according to two security experts and hackers who spend the last year creating a Uconnect hack.
Recently, a 2014 Jeep Cherokee was tested out by WIRED editor Andy Greenberg, who let the hackers attack his vehicle from the comfort of their couch as he proceeded down the highway.
Charlie Miller, security engineer at Twitter and Chris Valasek, director of vehicle safety research at Idactiv, triggered Greenberg’s PTSD by cranking the volume of the music and level of the fan in the vehicle, then activating the parking brake as the journalist drove down a busy highway.
So far, the hack has only been tested on the 2014 Jeep, but the team says that all late-model Chryslers equipped with Uconnect software are vulnerable.
According to Greenberg, who followed up on the security issue, Chrysler has since released a software update for the Uconnect issue. Chrysler posted a notice to its website informing its customers about a “software update to improve vehicle electronic security.”
For late-model Chryslers with Uconnect, owners are advised to update their software by entering their VIN number on Chryslers website, download the update to a USB, connect the USB to the vehicle, and answer the vehicle’s prompt, “Yes,” the owner confirms he wants to update the software.
This update is also a free service for anyone who brings their Chrysler into a dealership.
By James Haleavy
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A developer of enterprise mobility software has expressed doubts that Apple’s iPhone can cut it in the enterprise due to a number of issues, all of which Apple can change, but in doing so are anathema to how the company operates.
Ahmed Datoo, vice president of marketing of Zenprise, a developer of software for enterprise BlackBerry users, said he would welcome the opportunity to support the iPhone in the enterprise but has his doubts it will make much headway.
“The question that needs to be asked is, is the 2.0 software going to be good enough to take on RIM at the enterprise level?” he told InternetNews.com. “It doesn’t look it. Is it good enough to get at the small and medium-sized business market? Probably. They have different requirements.”
Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) did not return calls seeking comment for this story. The company had its big enterprise roadmap event last week where it unveiled details of its software development kit (SDK) and support for Microsoft’s Exchange Server. CRM and Saas provider Salesforce.com announced support for the iPhone and two large corporate customers, biotech giant Genentech and Nike, said they already had iPhone deployments underway.
“The iPhone is a watershed event in mobile computing for corporations,” said Todd Pierce, vice president, of corporate IT at Genentech, in a statement. “Genentech’s pilot with iPhone has shown its potential to be the most useful business mobility tool we’ve ever used. We now have 3,000 planned for deployment based on how easy and simple it was to integrate iPhone with our corporate email system.”
IDC analyst Sean Ryan, said Apple’s support of Exchange was important to get the iPhone consideration among enterprise buyers, but nothing special. He notes that Nokia, Palm, Symbian, HTC and other mobile players already support Exchange and its ActiveSync technology for connecting to corporate email systems.
“In the mobile enterprise it’s not just about the devise, but about the platform and the support system,” said Ryan. “The iPhone has a lot of cachet, but there are many challenges to wide corporate adoption. It’s a premium-priced device with limited device management.” With Exchange, IT can shut down an iPhone that’s lost or stolen, but other mobile devices have more extensive management capabilities.
Ryan also said the market for enterprises devices like smart phones is still at a very early stage and the iPhone is very new. “Apple has an opportunity but RIM, Nokia, Microsoft and others aren’t going to sit still.”
Datoo of Zenprise laid out four distinct areas he thinks Apple must overcome to make the iPhone a true success in the enterprise. The problems range from technical to perceptual. The first is that Apple is viewed as a consumer product, and firms that play in both spaces, consumer and enterprise, use separate brands. “It’s rare to see a company pulling off operating in the enterprise space and consumer space with the same product,” said Datoo.
The second is support. Apple is a relatively small company with modest support infrastructure. Where would an enterprise customer go for help, AT&T or Apple? Over the years, RIM built out a significant support structure, which Apple will need. “To be a mainstay in the enterprise, you need a support model conducive to an enterprise model,” said Datoo.
The third problem is security. The iPhone’s internals are not documented or exposed. Datoo said it’s not even possible to get at basic internals, like the battery levels or signal strength meters. Many features, like Bluetooth and the camera, can’t be locked down. Also, the iPhone is managed through iTunes, which many enterprises have banned from their computers. None of this, he said, will sit well with enterprise customers.
Finally, there is support. Datoo cited a Gartner study that put total cost of ownership for a mobile phone at between $1,300 and $2,600, with about 50 percent of that cost going to IT and user administration. iPhone has no remote administration features, no visibility into the device, which means a lot more time would be needed to be spent diagnosing problems.


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Bell's Nexus concept with the ducted fans tilted forward for cruise mode. (Nick Zazulia/AVI)
Bell has always been an air vehicle manufacturer, first and foremost, but that might change as it postures to enter the emerging air taxi market, according to the company's chief innovator.
"Could we be more than an OEM?" Bell Innovation head Scott Drennan said July 23 at the U.S. Department of Transportation's Volpe Center for transportation logistics. "Could we operate the vehicle? Could we partner strongly in the operation of a vehicle?"
Speaking at a discussion on the future of mobility, Drennan said Bell, which is one of Uber's six vehicle manufacturing partners in a bid to get urban air mobility (UAM) off the ground, is looking at reinventing itself for the future.
A NASA-funded study by Booz Allen Hamilton of the UAM market found air taxis, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles and other rotorcraft could be responsible for 640 million passenger trips and 500 million cargo trips per year by 2030. NASA also found that the new industry could serve 750 million passengers by that year between just 15 major cities.
"That's a huge number in [the rotorcraft] world," Drennan said. "It would transform the industry. Building thousands of vehicles per year rather than today's state, where if we build 300, everybody is popping champagne."
While big sales for Bell's Nexus hybrid-electric VTOL matter, operation will be a major profit center going forward, according to studies. Driving down flight operation costs through electric power and automation is a major focus of UAM pioneers. Bell is seizing that opportunity by targeting events like the Consumer Electronics Show and doing visible public outreach to education the riding public about future air transport. By making, selling and marketing its own products, Bell is positioning itself as aviation's Apple rather than its Dell.
The transition Bell is looking to make will be even smoother when pilots are removed from the equation, which Drennan says could be as soon as the technology gets certified, based on what the company hears.
"People are not so afraid of autonomy as we think," he said. "People who would ride in an air taxi [at all] would probably ride in an air taxi that’s autonomous."
Want more eVTOL and air taxi news? Sign up for our brand new e-letter, “The Skyport,” where every other week you’ll find the most important analysis and insider scoops from the urban air mobility world.


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Last year, representatives of Boston Dynamics promised that in 2019 they will start selling their robots. And this year they finally announced more specific dates. At the TechCrunch Sessions: Robotics & AI event, founder andContinue reading »
- The head of Boston Dynamics told when the company will start selling its robot dog.
- OnePlus 6T has passed certification in EEC
- Today, the flagship smartphone Meizu 16th went on sale in China. However, within a few seconds he was completely sold out.
- Protective glass Corning Gorilla Glass 6 will first appear on the flagship Oppo
- The flagship mi8 is officially presented


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We've seen plenty of companies embrace the recreational marijuana laws in the Colorado since Amendment 64 went into effect in January of 2014. Just last month, Denver welcomed its first openly weed-friendly hotel, edibles are flying off the shelves and farm-to-table marijuana stores are well underway. Now we have weed summer camp, and it's called CannaCamp.
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There is now a huge demand for skilled plumbers in Britain, particularly in major cities like London. This demand is partially being driven by the acute shortage of skilled plumbers, as fewer young people are entering the profession and completing their apprenticeships. Facing a shortage of skilled plumbers inside the M25, major firms like London-based […]
Due to great demand for housing services, housing will account for over a third (37%) of the UK’s total annual construction output between 2014 and 2018. This includes plumbing services. According to recent studies, plumbers are set to be in high demand across the UK in the near future, as the construction industry will need […]
More and more prospective home buyers and sellers are turning to the Internet to buy or sell homes. Home Buyers go to the Internet to Find Estate Agents According to studies, 98% of all property searches in the UK are now conducted online. They’re browsing estate agents’ websites, searching the inventories of listing companies, reading […]
Digital Marketing in Transition: As the Internet became available to the masses, a greater number of companies began to recognise it for what it could be: a potent marketing tool. In the past, advertising space was taken in daily or weekly newspapers, periodicals, trade and hobbyist magazines, and leaflet drops.
Residential property in the United Kingdom is at a steady growth. According to Property Partner, the market is now valued at more than £5 trillion and buy-to-let transactions add up to more than £20 billion annually. Additionally, urbanisation, the scarcity of land, a growing population, as well as significant local and international demand for residential […]
Revenue from residential property sales in the UK account for a huge part of the overall economic revenue. According to recent statistics from Property Partner, residential property in the UK is now worth more than £5 trillion, and buy-to-let transactions add up to more than £20 billion annually. Moreover, residential property holds a dynamic percentage […]
Businesses in need of better market reach for their product or service can use numerous tools and techniques to stay at the top of the game. New videos, for example, already have substantial value thanks to their engaging spoken and visual presentations of information. Optimising videos may allow for more mileage in search engines and […]
The advent of new technologies has transformed the way consumers interact with businesses, shop, and make decisions. This means that business owners who want to remain competitive must adapt their marketing strategies and campaigns to meet the expectations of their increasingly tech-savvy customer base. In 2012, British businesses spent over £800 million in online marketing […]


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The head of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. last week confirmed that the company had begun to explore possibilities of building a semiconductor manufacturing fab in the United States. While the market observers in general believe that TSMC’s interest in the U.S. is a result of its plan to produce chips for Apple, the foundry denies this.
“The U.S. is one of the places [to build a new fab] under consideration. But this has nothing to do with Apple,” said Morris Chang, the chief executive and chairman of TSMC, at the company’s supply chain management forum, reports Taipei Times web-site.
The interest of TSMC to build a semiconductor manufacturing facility in the U.S. could be very real. The company is looking forward to expand its businesses and remain competitive against Globalfoundries, Samsung Semiconductor and United Microelectronics Corp.
Numerous chips that are designed for devices to be used by various U.S. government organizations need to be made in the country. TSMC already owns WaferTech facility in Camas, Washington, but the facility processes 200mm wafers and is currently considered as outdated. Moreover, WaferTech is also a small facility that cannot produce chips in quantities required by the world’s leading fabless chip designers, such as Apple, AMD, Nvidia, Qualcomm and other.
TSMC currently makes chips for AMD, Nvidia and Qualcomm, but is also negotiating with Apple over manufacturing of next-generation system-on-chip products for Apple’s consumer electronics, such as Apple iPhone, iPad and other. Currently Samsung Semiconductor solely produces A-series SoCs for Apple in its Austin, Texas facilities. A large 300mm or 450mm fab in New York could enable TSMC to produce chips using leading-edge process technologies not only for its current clients in the U.S., but also for Apple. A contract with the latter should be a very interesting deal for the Hsinchu, Taiwan-based semiconductor manufacturer.


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Take Kellogg's Coco Pops. When the company changed the cereal's name to Choco Krispies, in line with its US market, it received a shock from British consumers. They didn't want their favourite breakfast cereal re-branded and sales plummeted.
"Kellogg's was forced to hold a nationwide poll over the name and eventually changed it back to what it was originally," said Charles Lury, of London design agency Springpoint. "Unlike Marathon - which successfully became Snickers - and Opal Fruits - which was re-launched as Starburst - the product couldn't move forward with the new name in Britain."
Changing the format or style of a well-loved household product can affect sales significantly. "For years, Fairy Liquid came in an iconic white bottle, but is now sold in a clear bottle with a waist," said Marketing magazine's Jennifer Hiscock. "Although Fairy remains the second biggest household brand, sales have recently dropped by nearly three per cent. It's open to question whether this can be attributed to the packaging change."
It's not only consumers who can force products back into their original packaging. "Doritos were originally sold in square crisp packets and then changed into a pyramid shape," said Ms Hiscock. "These packets were rejected by the supermarkets because they were difficult to stack on shelves. As a result they changed back again."
We could see a similar situation developing over the plastic bags being trialled by United Dairy Crest to replace milk bottles and Tetra Pak cartons. "Other companies tried to introduce milk in plastic bags in the early Seventies," said The Grocer magazine's Simon Mowbray. "The advantage is that the packaging is cheaper and there is less waste. But customers preferred their old-fashioned pinta and the experiment failed"
"It's a gamble whether new formats will take off and it's interesting to see that United Dairy Crest is being very careful," added Mr Mowbray. "The trials are only taking place for eight weeks at 12 stores in south-west England and in a limited area of doorstop deliveries.
"Co-op Dairies delivered milk in plastic bags in Bristol, Nuneaton and Nottingham for about four years from 1971," said a Co-op spokeswoman. "They thought it would be possible to post it through letter boxes rather than leave it on doorsteps. But cats and dogs got to it first and the concept proved unacceptable with customers and was dropped."
Recently, the traditional foil and paper wrapper on Kit Kat bars were replaced with flow-wrap plastic to match bars sold abroad. A spokeswoman for makers Nestlé Rowntree denied sales were affected. "We've had a few queries from consumers but most have just accepted it," she said. But Springpoint's Mr Lury said the move had prompted a debate in design and product packaging circles ahead of substantial feedback from stores and shoppers.
Some products do make the switch successfully. Washing powders made the change from boxes to pouches and soft drinks gushed from cans into small plastic bottles. But it's significant that the majority of soups are still sold in cans. If it ain't broke, why fix it?Reuse content


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This comprehensive guide begins at Alfava Metraxis and ends at Doctor Who Magazine wins the ACE Press Award 0 Following its record breaking ABC figure earlier this year, Doctor Who Magazine had cause for further celebration at the 2014 ACE Press Awards held https://www.levitradosageus24.com/ viagra bedeutung online apotheke at the Museum of London. This may take a second or two.
Northwest Returns FireAugust 11, 2006 By: Mike Jaccarino Travel Agent
Northwest Airlines fired back at Amadeus on Friday, saying that the GDS provider has no one to blame but itself for the booking fees and restricted content that may be in store for its subscribers come Sept. 1. In a letter responding to Amadeus's legal action against the company, Northwest said, "Any adverse effects suffered by Amadeus subscribers... are entirely attributable to Amadeus." Northwest also highlighted the full-content agreements the airline reached with other GDS providers, like Sabre and Galileo, which have recently issued new products that would protect agents from per segment booking fees. Taking an aggressive stance, Northwest went on to issue a de facto call for action among Amadeus subscribers, saying that they should "make clear to Amadeus their preference to have available the option of participating in a Northwest Preferred Distribution Product." Amadeus announced this week that it wanted an arbitrator to address the $3.50 per segment booking fees that Northwest was threatening to assess its clients, saying that the action violated its contractual agreement with the airline. Moreover, Amadeus also is seeking a court injunction to prevent Northwest from assessing the fees until the matter is settled.


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Chris Duggan knew it wouldn't be hard to rustle up a first round of outside financing for his start-up, Digital Orchid. The two-year-old San Diego company -- which provides images and ring tones that can be downloaded onto cell phones -- already had a stable of high-profile clients, including NASCAR and the National Hockey League.
But instead of trying to attract a traditional venture capital firm, Duggan pitched Digital Orchid to the fledgling private capital arm of the wireless giant Qualcomm. "We were looking for something other than money," Duggan explains. "We wanted someone who could provide a strategic fit." And with more than 150 million people in some 50 countries using Qualcomm's technology, the company seemed like a perfect match. Qualcomm apparently agreed, investing an undisclosed sum in Digital Orchid late last year. "By aligning ourselves with them," Duggan says, "we'll have a better shot at deploying our products around the world."
Back in the boom days of the 1990s, everyone wanted to be a venture capitalist -- including many of corporate America's largest companies, which launched their own in-house funds. Corporate investors sank $17 billion into small and midsize companies in 2000 alone. But when the bubble burst, VC investing suddenly seemed a lot less sexy, and many of these funds scaled back or shut down operations entirely.
But corporate America is getting back into the game. Corporate-based venture capitalists invested $1.4 billion in 2004, an 8% jump from 2003 and the first increase since 2000, according to a recent survey by the National Venture Capital Association, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Thomson Venture Economics. And although corporate money remains less than 10% of the overall private capital market, some major players, including Amgen and Nokia, have launched new funds while others, such as Intel, have begun investing with renewed vigor.
Corporate funders don't differ much from their traditional VC peers. Both groups look for promising young companies on the verge of a big spike in sales. But there are some distinctions. Corporate funders, for example, tend to be more risk-averse, avoiding early-stage companies in favor of second-round deals. And while all investors lust after big returns, corporate VCs are often just as interested in getting an inside track on hot new technologies, reducing the costs of their own research and development.
When pitching to a corporate venture fund, it's important to stick to your niche. For example, Xilinx -- a publicly traded computer chip and software developer in San Jose, Calif., that recently launched a $100 million fund, its second VC initiative -- is almost exclusively interested in start-ups that are developing new chip technologies. Corporate funders also tend to be more circumspect than traditional venture capitalists and less inclined to scout deals, making them harder to find -- though that is beginning to change. The NVCA, for example, sponsored its first corporate VC conference in September 2004.
Bear in mind that corporate money can come with its own set of headaches. It's not uncommon for corporate backers to balk should you try to do business with one of their competitors, and they may even try to prevent you from doing so. That's why you have to do as much due diligence as they do. Bret Bergman, CEO and president of Qcept Technologies, a three-year-old Atlanta company that has developed a new way to detect chemical contamination in semiconductor chips, recently picked up about $2 million in funding from Siemens, the German manufacturing giant. Bergman needed the money, but he asked plenty of questions before agreeing to the deal. "We all had to get comfortable that Siemens had a good track record of working with its partner companies," he says. "We needed to know that it was willing to do something good for Qcept that may not necessarily be good for Siemens."


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No one is looking at your hair! Heidi Klum flaunts her long and tanned legs in a sexy shift dress as she promotes haircare line
She was out and about to promote haircare line Clear Hair & Scalp Therapy, for which she is the face of.
But Heidi Klum's fabulous figure distracted from her blonde mane on Wednesday.
The 39-year-old German supermodel flaunted her endless tanned and toned legs as she kicked off the Right End Hair Revolution at The Grove outdoor shopping mall in West Hollywood.
No one is looking at your hair! Heidi Klum flashed her legs in a patterned dress as she promoted haircare line Clear Hair & Scalp Therapy at The Grove outdoor shopping mall in West Hollywood on Wednesday
The former Victoria's Secret star's patterned dress featured a slit at the back that revealed her perfect pins.
Heidi elongated them even further by slipping on a pair of strappy black high heels.
The bubbly blonde had a ball on the promotional trial, wrapping her arms around a giant signed bottle of Clear Hair & Scalp Therapy.
Legs eleven: Heidi elongated her legs even further by slipping on a pair of strappy black high heels
Just another one of her jobs: Heidi is the face and spokesperson for Clear Hair & Scalp Therapy
Flawless: While she regularly goes make-up free in her down time, this time she wore some coverage on her gorgeous visage
Ever the professional host, the
mother-of-four also took to the microphone where she talked about the
product alongside a slew of models.
While she regularly goes make-up free in her down time, this time she wore some coverage on her flawless visage.
Heidi's often make-up free look appears to be part of her beauty philosophy, as she recently told Hollywood Life.
Professional: Ever the professional host, the mother-of-four also took to the microphone where she talked about the product alongside a slew of models
Busy bee: Heidi appeared on Extra at The Grove in LA later in the day
Promotions girl: Klum pushed her goodies at the high end shopping centre
'I tend to not wear make-up on my off days,' she told the blog. 'I am not complicated, I don’t have tons of creams or anything like that. I stay simple.'
Heidi's life however is far from simple.
In addition to juggling a family of four - her youngest Lou is three - Heidi also is the host and executive producer of Project Runway, a judge on America’s Got Talent and last month launched her own line of exercise wear with New Balance.
Pretty in pink: Maria Menounos sported a hot pink dress as she stepped out at The Grove to film Extra
Double act: Maria joined Mario Lopez to present the show in the Los Angeles sunshine
Heidi will judge AGT alongside former Spice Girls star Mel B.
While Heidi's performance on the show won't be judged until the series starts airing on June 4th, the star spoke recently about those acts loved by the live audience.
Revealing she tries to be honest when judging an act, Heidi said: 'Seriously? This person cannot sing.
'They boo, they want everybody to go through.'
In love: Heidi was spotted out with her beau Martin Kristen on Tuesday
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