FEATURED NEWS
- May 24, 2024Health
Adherium will provide its Hailie® Smartinhaler®for an AstraZeneca clinical trial
Adherium Limited (“Adherium” or “the Company”; ASX:ADR), a leader in respiratory eHealth, remote monitoring and data management solutions, today announced that AstraZeneca has selected its Hailie® Smartinhaler® platform for a clinical trial. This contract is valued at $1.1M over the course of three years. AstraZeneca’s inhaled medication use will be recorded and transferred via Hailie Smartinhaler devices. Adherium CEO, Dr. Paul Mastoridis, said: “ This agreement underscores Adherium's strategic commitment to enhancing patient care through advanced technology. Our Hailie® platform is designed to ensure precise monitoring and support for patients with respiratory diseases, facilitating the pursuit of tailored therapy. " Adherium will be providing Hailie® Smartinhalers®, Hailie® app and Platform for the trial, allowing for accurate tracking of inhaler medication use through the selected eCOA (Electronic Clinical Outcome Assessment) devices.
- May 24, 2024APAC
Weebit Nano and Efabless collaborate to enable easy, affordable prototyping of innovative SoC designs
Weebit Nano Limited (ASX:WBT), a leading developer and licensor of advanced memory technologies for the global semiconductor industry, and Efabless Corporation , the creator platform for chips, announce their collaboration to enable fast and easy prototyping of intelligent devices using Weebit’s technology. Under this agreement, Efabless chipIgnite customers have access to Weebit’s Resistive RAM ( ReRAM or RRAM ) IP, an innovative non-volatile memory ( NVM ), which they can incorporate into their designs manufactured using SkyWater Technology Foundry’s 130nm CMOS (S130) process. chipIgnite is an innovative open-source chip design platform that makes it easy and affordable to design and fabricate chips for prototyping or small production programs in areas such as IoT, artificial intelligence and other burgeoning applications. As chipIgnite users prototype and test their next-generation designs, they can now take advantage of Weebit ReRAM to embed more system capabilities in their products. Weebit ReRAM is an advanced NVM technology that enables companies to create systems on chip ( SoC ) designs that are more energy efficient, more reliable, more secure and lower cost than those using flash or other emerging NVMs. Weebit ReRAM technology in SkyWater S130 is an ultra-low power, fast, radiation tolerant and secure NVM with excellent reliability even at high temperatures. The technology is qualified for automotive-grade temperatures, and ready for production. As part of the collaboration, Efabless customers will pay a small fee to use Weebit ReRAM in their designs. If the customer decides to move to commercial production with their design, they will license the Weebit ReRAM IP directly from Weebit. Coby Hanoch, CEO of Weebit Nano, said: “The Efabless chipIgnite program is exciting, as it enables academics, researchers, startups and even groups within large OEMs to quickly and cost-effectively develop and test new designs. As we embark on this collaboration, we anticipate that it will broaden industry awareness of Weebit ReRAM and grow the community of designers using our technology. Some of these users will ultimately want to license our product for commercial production, and we’re working with Efabless to accelerate this process.” Mohamed Kassem, CTO of Efabless, said: “Efabless makes chip design and prototyping easy and affordable. We are seeing increased interest in creating designs with integrated NVM. We’re delighted to add Weebit’s innovative ReRAM IP to our portfolio, enabling our users to build more capabilities and intelligence for applications such as TinyML. By embedding NVM on-chip in their prototypes, designers can better understand the real-life behavior of their devices.” About Efabless Efabless offers a platform applying open source and community models to enable a global community of chip experts and non-experts to collaboratively design, share, prototype and commercialize special purpose chips. Over the past three years, 1300 designs and six hundred tapeouts have been executed on Efabless. The company’s customers include startups, Fortune 500 companies, universities, and research institutions around the world. For more information, please visit www.efabless.com . About Weebit Nano Limited Weebit Nano Ltd. is a leading developer and licensor of advanced semiconductor memory technology. The company’s ground-breaking Resistive RAM (ReRAM) addresses the growing need for significantly higher performance and lower power memory solutions in a range of new electronic products such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, smartphones, robotics, autonomous vehicles, 5G communications and artificial intelligence. Weebit ReRAM allows semiconductor memory elements to be significantly faster, less expensive, more reliable and more energy efficient than those using existing flash memory solutions. As it is based on fab-friendly materials, the technology can be quickly and easily integrated with existing flows and processes, without the need for special equipment or large investments. See www.weebit-nano.com . Weebit Nano and the Weebit Nano logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Weebit Nano Ltd. in the United States and other countries. Other company, product, and service names may be trademarks or service marks of others. – ENDS – Weebit Nano Investors Eric Kuret, Automic Group P: +61 417 311 335 E: eric.kuret@automicgroup.com.au Weebit Nano Media – Australia Tristan Everett, Automic Group P: +61 403 789 096 E: tristan.everett@automicgroup.com.au Weebit Nano Media – US Jen Bernier-Santarini, Weebit Nano P: +1 650-336-4222 E: jen@weebit-nano.com Efabless Media Andrea Vedanayagam P: 408.656.4494 E: andrea@efabless.com
- May 23, 2024Business
Duopharma Biotech optimistic on 2024 outlook with Q1FY2024 results
Duopharma Biotech Berhad ("Duopharma Biotech" or "the Company") reported a 15.2% increase in revenue for the quarter ended 31 March 2024 compared to the preceding quarter, with a revenue of RM192.97 million compared to RM167.50 million in the last quarter ended 31 December 2023. Year-on-year, however, the Q1FY2024 revenue lagged the same period year, down 3.7% from Q1FY2023, which recorded revenue of RM200.48 million. The results are also reflected in the profit before tax (PBT) for the first quarter of 2024, which amounted to RM20.10 million, compared to RM28.29 million in the corresponding period last year, a decrease of 29.0%. Meanwhile, the PBT for Q1FY2024 saw significant recovery quarter-on-quarter, coming in at 185.8% higher than the RM7.03 million PBT recorded in Q4FY2023. The marginally lower year-on-year revenue and PBT were attributed to lower demand in the prescription pharmaceutical markets, both in the private ethical and public health segments. Additionally, increased operational costs associated with the full operation of the newly completed K3 facility, higher finance costs and unfavourable exchange rates have contributed to the decline in profitability. Leonard Ariff Abdul Shatar, Group Managing Director of Duopharma Biotech, commented, "The persistent challenges, such as strengthening in the United States Dollar, high electricity tariffs and high interest rates, continue to pose pressure on manufacturing margins and overall profitability. However, the Group remains focused on enhancing operational efficiencies internally to cushion the surge in operational and finance costs caused by these challenges." Recently, Duopharma Biotech subsidiaries Duopharma (M) Sendirian Berhad and Duopharma Manufacturing (Bangi) Sdn Bhd respectively received and accepted seven and four Letters of Offer from Pharmaniaga Logistics Sdn Bhd to supply pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical products to the Government of Malaysia's offices and facilities. All contracts are valid until 31 December 2026 with a total estimated value of approximately RM578.09 million. The record-high budget allocation of RM41.20 billion for the healthcare sector in Malaysia's 2024 Budget is anticipated to continue to increase demand for medical supplies, benefiting pharmaceutical players in the market. Despite ongoing challenges, Duopharma Biotech remains optimistic about the future, with a steadfast commitment to its long-term growth prospects. "We will continue to focus on strategic collaborations to navigate challenges and drive sustainable growth in the coming quarters, leveraging our strengths and seizing local and regional opportunities to deliver value to our shareholders. With the acceptances of new supple agreements with the Government of Malaaysia, the Group poised to deliver satisfactory performance in 2024, barring unforseen market changes and developments." Leonard Ariff added. The Board of Directors did not recommend any interim dividend for the current quarter ended 31 March 2024, Meanwhile, during Q1FY2024, the Group paid a second interim dividend of 1.8 sen in respect of financial year ended 31 December 2023, amounting to total divendend of 2.3sen per share paid for financial year ended 31 December 2023.
- May 23, 2024Business
REDPAPER predicts growth for industrial properties, new trends enhance flexibility and sustainability
REDPAPER, an insight report on real estate data and trends by Frasers Property (Thailand) and Jones Lang LaSalle (Thailand) Company Limited, or JLL Thailand, forecasts an upsurge in the real estate industry, influenced by the global geopolitical landscape and the China Plus One policy. It also highlights the impressive growth momentum of the New S-Curve industries, which is driving continuous expansion in factories and warehouses. Additionally, the company has introduced innovative “built-to-function” solutions for Thailand's latest industrial buildings, catering to specific tenant needs and ensuring rapid relocation. Titled ‘Insights on Thailand's Future-Focused Industrial Property Sector’, REDPAPER underscores the proactive expansion of industrial real estate, catalysed by significant growth over the past 2-3 years. This surge is fuelled by the rapidly expanding e-commerce sector, driven by economic dynamics and global geopolitical tensions, as well as international companies’ strategies to diversify investments beyond China. Thailand’s readiness, characterised by attractive investment promotion policies, strategic location, robust infrastructure, and skilled labour force, establishes the country as an attractive investment destination for foreign investors, especially in government-targeted industries for advancement. Over the past decade, Thailand’s manufacturing sector has played a crucial role in the economy, contributing more than a quarter to GDP. Under the New S-Curve strategy, which aims to drive the economy through future industries, sectors like electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing and electronics and electrical appliance (E&E) manufacturing, particularly semiconductor products, have gained significant importance. These sectors are vital in terms of production and connectivity with other sectors such as robotics and communication networks, which requires close monitoring. In 2023, the EV manufacturing industry saw enormous growth of 380%, while the E&E industry expanded by 256% compared to the previous year,1 indicating a major increase in investment. The growth of the above-mentioned industries has resulted in increased demand for rental spaces in factories and warehouses, attracting new players to the market. Between 2018 and 2023, there was an annual addition of 25,000 square metres of rental factory space and 282,000 square metres of warehouse space. Due to the diverse demands of the market, along with the capability of major providers to develop high-quality factories and warehouses, there has been innovation in the development of new types of industrial buildings that blend ready-built and built-to-suit approaches. This new model is called “built-to-function”, which meets the needs of investors by delivering ready-to-use buildings that incorporate specialised features suited for standard structures. It is particularly suitable for logistics service providers (3PL) specialising in specific products/services as well as corporate clients who require specialised ready-to-use buildings. Additionally, built-to-function industrial buildings help service providers reduce the risk of vacancy rates based on typical demand forecasts. This gives a competitive edge to real estate developers already engaged in developing ready-built and built-to-suit buildings by bridging market gaps through the enhancement of existing products. A key trend that has influenced the development of industrial buildings recently is the interest of global investors in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. These investors are looking for developers and service providers who can deliver high-quality buildings that meet sustainability standards. The international green building standard, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), has been applied to support sustainable operations in industrial real estate, which is a part of the value chain in business. REDPAPER reports that Thailand’s extensive preparedness across various sectors, coupled with increased investment from foreign investors and the presence of leading industrial real estate developers, underscores the country’s readiness to grow as a major hub for manufacturing and distribution. Read more at www.frasersproperty.co.th/th/downloads/redpaper 1 The growth of the EV industry is gauged by the number of registrations for all types of electric vehicles, while the growth of the E&E industry is evaluated through the value of investment promotion applications received by the BOI.
- May 23, 2024Sports
Making dreams come true
The Seven Network and Pinterest today announced the launch of an innovative integrated partnership in the brand-new renovation series, Dream Home , on Channel 7 and 7plus. In an Australian first for Pinterest, the partnership will capitalise on the highly anticipated room reveals in Dream Home , which launches at 7.00pm this Sunday, 26 May. The partnership will allow viewers and Pinterest users to explore the room reveals, curate their own “dream homes” online and buy products from key program sponsors. After each episode, the room reveals will be dropped into boards on Pinterest, with viewers able to look through and save inspiration for their own home renovation. Pinterest is launching a competition to support the Dream Home launch, called Pinterest’s Dream Home Curation Challenge , where viewers can curate their own dream home by mixing and matching their favourite designs and products from the show on Pinterest. Each Dream Home board on Pinterest will be judged and the winners will receive a prize including a lifetime of savings from Three Birds Renovations to help take the inspiration into real life. Seven West Media Chief Marketing and Audience Officer, Mel Hopkins, said: “We are really excited about and proud of this unique partnership with Pinterest, which will have huge benefits for viewers and sponsors. “Seven and Pinterest recognised a desire among viewers to lean into key moments in Dream Home and have their say. This partnership provides a new and compelling way for people to connect with a program. “At the same time, this integration closes the loop with the cross-screen experience in a contextually relevant way where people can engage, curate and shop directly with Dream Home ,” she said. Pinterest Managing Director Australia and New Zealand, Melinda Petrunoff, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Seven in a way that Pinterest has never done before. “Aussies love searching for and pinning their favourite ideas for home renovations and now Dream Home viewers will have the opportunity to engage with the show in a way that naturally complements their viewing experience. Not only can they explore the dream homes on Pinterest, but they can also take action and purchase items they love for their own home.” Hosted by Dr Chris Brown, Dream Home is set to take the home renovation genre to new heights, as six pairs of everyday Aussies battle it out room by room, transforming tired suburban family homes into astonishing new dream homes. Following renovations in each state, the top three couples will have the opportunity to have their backyards completely made over with stunning gardens and outdoor living spaces. The winning couple will receive their very own dream home and a life-changing cash prize of $100,000. Produced by Endemol Shine Australia (A Banijay company), Dream Home will inspire and ignite Australia’s love of home renovation. For further information, please contact: Neil Shoebridge M: 0417 511 012 E: neil@skmediagroup.com.au Andrew Knowles M: 0449 510 357 E: andrew@skmediagroup.com.au About the Seven Network The Seven Network is part of Seven West Media (ASX: SWM), one of Australia’s most prominent media companies, with a market-leading presence in content production across broadcast television, publishing and digital. The Seven Network alone reaches about 17 million people a month. The company owns some of Australia’s most renowned media businesses, including the Seven Network and its affiliate channels 7two, 7mate, 7flix and 7Bravo; the digital platform 7plus; 7NEWS.com.au ; The West Australian; The Sunday Times ; and The Nightly . The Seven Network is home to Australia’s most loved news, sport and entertainment programming, including 7NEWS, 7NEWS Spotlight, Sunrise, The Morning Show, The Voice, Home and Away, Australian Idol, My Kitchen Rules, SAS Australia, Farmer Wants A Wife, The Chase Australia, Better Homes and Gardens, RFDS, The 1% Club and the TV WEEK Logie Awards . Seven Network is also the broadcast partner of the AFL, Cricket Australia and Supercars.
- May 23, 2024Land & Property
EVT announces the first QT Hotel in Asia
With a presence in Australia, New Zealand, and now Singapore, QT continues to redefine premium designer lifestyle accommodation across the Asia-Pacific region. EVT, a proud Australasian leader in the hospitality industry, is delighted to announce that Hotel Telegraph in Singapore will transform into QT Singapore this September, the first QT Hotels & Resorts property in Asia. Awarded the management contract for the property in December 2023, EVT has been operating Hotel Telegraph at full capacity before closing its doors on 1 April 2024 to undertake an extensive QT transformation. QT Hotels & Resorts is one of Australia and New Zealand’s most dynamic hotel brands, with QT Singapore becoming the designer hotel collections' first property in Southeast Asia, expanding the network outside of ANZ. QT Singapore will see the culturally rich site of the former Hotel Telegraph transformed into the Group’s newest hub of playful luxury, with a full-scale refurbishment currently underway. Renowned for distinctive design, immersive experiences, and exceptional ‘unexpected and unrequested’ signature service, the multi-award-winning QT plans to reignite premium designer lifestyle accommodation in Southeast Asia. The EVT Design team, in partnership with interior designer Nic Graham, will bring the distinctive QT style to life with its renowned unique character, immersive experiences, and signature food and beverage. The property will undergo a revolution of its food and beverage offerings to showcase EVT’s award-winning culinary expertise, including the rooftop bar and pool to become Rooftop at QT, and the opening of a signature bar and grill. With more details to come, the bar and grill will nod to the property’s heritage. Drawing inspiration from the local climate and the building’s historical architecture, the newly designed property will blend rich colour palettes with bold patterns to curate a future stay that celebrates and reflects the tropical island’s vibrant beating heart. CEO of EVT, Jane Hastings says, “It’s a great moment for EVT to bring the design-led, vibrant world of QT to Singapore. This is a pleasing step forward in our hotels network expansion strategy, and we are delighted to be working with Sunray to make Singapore the first QT hotel outside of Australia and New Zealand. QT Singapore will be led by some of our award-winning talent and will be a destination for international travellers to relish and local guests to discover. Offering elevated food and beverage concepts and QT’s award-winning signature quirk and service philosophy, we are excited to introduce the energy and vibrancy that guests already love in Australia and New Zealand, to Singapore.” Charles Tan of Sunray Singapore, hotel owner says, “We are thrilled to introduce QT to the dynamic city of Singapore, in collaboration with EVT and Sunray Singapore. With its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant energy, Singapore is the perfect canvas for the QT brand to weave its magical guest experiences. EVT's expertise in the Australasian hospitality industry, coupled with Sunray’s shared commitment to innovation and excellence – having the extensive experience of major restoration heritage icons of Singapore like Raffles Singapore and National Gallery Singapore – ensures that QT Singapore will set a new standard for premium designer lifestyle accommodation in the Asia-Pacific region.” Synonymous with QT Hotels & Resorts, QT Singapore will boast a charmed city location. Situated next to Lau Pa Sat hawker centre, one of Singapore’s iconic attractions, and in the heart of the financial district, the hotel will offer effortless convenience for corporate and leisure guests. Delivering QT’s bold and creatively charged hospitality, QT Singapore has been designed in partnership with interior designer Nic Graham and will feature: Luxurious QT redesigned guest rooms and suites Signature bar and grill Rooftop at QT bar and pool, a vibrant retreat with sublimely curated cocktails surrounded by the city skyline Bespoke private dining for intimate celebrations and formal business meetings The four-storey heritage building with captivating neo-classical façade and architecture was first built in 1927 and played an influential role in Singapore’s telecommunication history for nearly a century. With prior conservation-led restorations, the transition to a luxurious designer QT hotel marks an exciting new chapter for the property. QT Singapore is accepting bookings from 16 September 2024. For more information and to make a booking, visit qtsingapore.com
- May 23, 2024Business
YTL Corp's 9-Month Profit After Tax Rises 186% to RM2.8 Billion (US$596 Million); Revenue Increases 9% to RM22.3 Billion (US$4.7 Billion)
YTL Corporation Berhad recorded revenue of RM22,258.5million (US$4,735.9 mn) for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024, a 9% increase compared to RM20,410.2 million (US$4,342.6 mn) for the previous corresponding 9 months ended 31 March 2023. Profit before tax grew 173% to RM3,569.2 million (US$759.4 mn) for the 9 months under review compared to RM1,306.3 million (US$277.9 mn) for the same period last year, whilst profit after tax rose 186% to RM2,802.3 million (US$596.2 mn) this year compared to RM979.7 million (US$208.4mn) for the same period last year. Executive Chairman, Tan Sri (Sir) Francis Yeoh Sock Ping, PSM, KBE, said, "We continued to see strong results through the third quarter of the 2024 financial year, with profit after tax up 186% and revenue increasing 9%, driven by better performance across the Group. All divisions contributed to the higher profit seen for the nine months under review. "The Group's EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) increased 64% to RM7.0 billion for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024 compared to RM4.3 billion for the same period last year." Comparison with Preceding Year Corresponding Period YTL POWER INTERNATIONAL BERHAD YTL Power's 9-Month Profit After Tax Grows 176% to RM2.4 Billion Interim Dividend of 3.0 Sen per Share Declared YTL Power recorded an 8% increase in revenue to RM15,979.1 million for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024 compared to RM14,804.7 million for the previous corresponding 9 months ended 31 March 2023. Profit before tax increased 164% to RM2,875.5 million for the 9 months under review compared to RM1,091.2 million for the same period last year, whilst profit after tax grew 176% to RM2,391.9 million this year over RM866.0 million for the same period last year. The Board of Directors of YTL Power declared an interim dividend of 3.0 sen per ordinary share in respect of the financial year ending 30 June 2024, the book closure and payment dates for which are 12 June 2024 and 28 June 2024, respectively. Tan Sri (Sir) Francis Yeoh Sock Ping, Executive Chairman of YTL Power, said, "The Group achieved strong growth for the 9 months under review, driven primarily by better margins in the power generation segment. The water and sewerage segment recorded higher revenue due to new contracts secured within the non-household retail market and the price increase allowed by the industry regulator". EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024 increased 68% to RM5.2 billion, compared to RM3.1 billion for the same period last year. Comparison with Preceding Year Corresponding Period MALAYAN CEMENT BERHAD Malayan Cement's 9-Month Revenue Increases 24% to RM3.4 Billion & Profit After Tax Rises 301% to RM319 Million Interim Dividend of 4.0 Sen per Share Declared Malayan Cement's revenue increased 24% to RM3,405.0 million for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024 compared to RM2,746.5 million for the previous corresponding 9 months ended 31 March 2023. Profit before tax grew 296% to RM503.4 million for the 9 months under review compared to RM127.1 million for the same period last year, whilst profit after tax rose 301% to RM318.7 million this year over RM79.5 million for the same period last year. The Board of Directors of Malayan Cement declared an interim dividend of 4.0 sen per ordinary share in respect of the financial year ending 30 June 2024, the book closure and payment dates for which are 11 June 2024 and 26 June 2024, respectively. Tan Sri (Sir) Francis Yeoh Sock Ping, Executive Chairman of Malayan Cement, said, "Malayan Cement's better performance for the 9 months under review was attributed to stabilisation of the selling price for both domestic cement and ready-mixed concrete, coupled with continued improvements in operational efficiencies". EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) increased 93% to RM907.4 million for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024, compared to RM469.4 million for the same period last year. Comparison with Preceding Year Corresponding Period YTL HOSPITALITY REIT YTL Hospitality REIT's 9-Month Revenue Increases 15% to RM425 Million with 26% Growth in Distributable Income to RM106 Million YTL Hospitality REIT's revenue increased 15% to RM424.7 million for the 9 months ended 31 March 2024 compared to RM369.3 million for the previous corresponding 9 months ended 31 March 2023. Net property income (NPI) rose 17% to RM223.7 million for the 9 months under review compared to RM191.3 million for the same period last year, whilst income available for distribution grew 26% to RM106.1 million this year compared to RM84.2 million for the same period last year. Tan Sri (Sir) Francis Yeoh Sock Ping, Executive Chairman of Pintar Projek Sdn Bhd, the Manager of YTL Hospitality REIT, said, "Improved performance of the Trust's Australian portfolio was driven by increased international arrivals owing to entertainment and sports events held in Sydney and Brisbane, which drove up average daily room rates and occupancy rates. In the property rental segment, better performance was due to rental income from the new Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, acquired on 31 October 2023, and step-up rental from the renewal of the lease agreement for the JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur". Comparison with Preceding Year Corresponding Period
- May 22, 2024Business
JD.com Launches JD NOW: Transforming On-Demand Retail with Instant Delivery
On May 16th, JD.com unveiled its upgraded on-demand retail business, JD NOW. Combining JD’s instant shopping services, formerly known as JD Shop Now and JDDJ, JD NOW offers a wide range of premium products from over 500,000 physical stores delivered in as fast as nine minutes to consumers across 2,300 counties and cities in China. JD NOW’s new logo features JD’s mascot, JOY dog, wearing a bamboo-copter, symbolizing innovation and speed. In addition, JD NOW’s delivery riders sport new uniforms with a helmet topped with a bamboo-copter and a racing-style T-shirt. To enhance the delivery experience for special deliveries such as flowers and perishable items, riders in black gloves use mini-fridges to maintain optimal conditions throughout the delivery process. Dada Now, China‘s leading local on-demand delivery platform and JD NOW’s delivery operator, is improving its operations and fulfillment technologies to ensure rapid delivery. Customers can enjoy ultra-fast doorstep delivery in as little as nine minutes, with the option of insurance to cover any potential late deliveries. Along with the introduction of the new brand, JD NOW gained a prominent new consumer touchpoint on the landing page of the JD App, showcasing five main categories: fresh produce, flowers and cakes, supermarkets, coffee and milk tea, and medicines. The JD NOW section dynamically updates its displays based on users’ locations and shopping preferences, while highlighting discounts to help consumers make informed decisions. Additional categories, such as digital products, baby and maternal supplies, and pet products, are also available. On May 20th, a day associated with love in China’s internet culture, JD NOW launched romance-themed promotions, including limited-edition gift boxes with flowers and cosmetics and recommendations of gift items based on the popular MBTI personality test. These promotions aim to meet customers’ immediate needs for gift shopping. China’s on-demand retail market has been growing rapidly and is expected to exceed RMB1 trillion in 2024, according to a recent white paper by the China International Electronic Commerce Center. The launch of JD NOW underscores JD.com’s commitment to enhancing user experience and meeting the increasing demand for instant and diverse shopping solutions. ( vivian.yang@jd.com )
- May 22, 2024Business
CATL enters partnership with Macao SAR and Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin
On May 22nd, CATL signed a cooperation framework agreement with the Macao SAR Government and the Executive Committee of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin respectively in Macao. According to the agreement, the Macao SAR and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin are dedicated to promoting the green development and appropriate economic diversification of these two regions by making full use of CATL's advantages in scale, market, technology and talent in the new energy industry globally. In response to the green, low-carbon and high-quality development pursuit of Macao and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, CATL will fully leverage its advantages to carry out in-depth cooperation with the two regions in the field of new energy, so as to inject new impetus into the diversified development of local economy and help open up a new chapter of green development of the two regions.
- May 22, 2024Business
Ampol and Volkswagen join forces for EV charging
Volkswagen Australia and Ampol have reached a milestone agreement that will see Volkswagen Australia electric vehicle (EV) customers gain access to Ampol's AmpCharge home EV charging offer and discounts at its public EV charging stations nationwide. The agreement with Australia's largest supplier of transport fuels, which is transitioning to become a key provider of EV charging infrastructure, will further enable Volkswagen customers to leverage the benefits of Ampol's growing public EV charging network as well as its Australian-made home EV charger and installation package. Volkswagen ID. customers will receive discounted Ampol public EV charging rates for the first 12 months of ownership, with rates to be determined closer to the ID. electric vehicle range launch. Australia's biggest European auto brand will also share dealer and customer insights to inform key locations in Ampol’s fast-charging rollout. Volkswagen has more than 100 dealerships nationally, all of which are currently being prepared to sell and service the brand’s battery electric vehicle rollout that begins in 2024 with the ID.4, ID.4 GTX, ID.5, ID.5 GTX, ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo. Each dealership will complement Ampol's public charging network with charging available for customers. In an industry first, Volkswagen and Ampol will allow customers to colour-code their AmpCharge home charger to their ID. vehicle, provided with a nationwide installation service and five-year warranty. Customers will be able to use an augmented reality (AR) tool accessed via their smartphone camera to 'scan' their garage or carport for suitable locations. The app can advise them if the location is suitable or not in real time, before an installer arrives. Director of Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles Michal Szaniecki said that the agreement is "absolutely crucial to Volkswagen's stated intention for its Australian EV sales to surpass those of conventional vehicles by 2028". "Two giants of personal mobility are helping more Australians transition to lower emissions vehicle ownership more quickly, making seamless their transition to e-mobility," said Mr Szaniecki, who last year drove an ID. 4 some 2,500km to visit east coast dealerships. "Eighty per cent of charging in urban areas will be done at home, while we are supporting the growing Ampol network on the open road, so this association literally empowers our customers wherever they live around this great country." Brent Merrick, Ampol Executive General Manager, Commercial Fuels and Energy said: "We're proud to partner with Volkswagen Australia and excited to work alongside them to provide charging infrastructure for the rollout of their EV range of vehicles. "This collaboration with Volkswagen Australia represents another step forward in our continuing e-mobility strategy which is designed to provide a diverse and comprehensive charging network to power customer journeys in the home, forecourt or locations where they need to charge." Volkswagen will announce the rates for Ampol public vehicle charging, ahead of the ID. range rollout commencing from July/August 2024. Media contact: media@ampol.com.au
- May 21, 2024Food & Beverage
SUNTORY FROM FARM Tomi Koshu 2022(*1) wins Gold Medal at 2024 International Wine and Spirits Competition
Suntory Spirits Ltd., a global leading beverage company with iconic brands such as Japanese whiskies Yamazaki, Hibiki and Hakushu , is proud to announce that its Japanese wine SUNTORY FROM FARM Tomi Koshu 2022 *1 won the gold medal at 2024 International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC). SUNTORY FROM FARM Tomi Koshu 2022 is the first vintage from the company’s flagship Japanese wine brand Tomi made from 100% ‘Koshu’, a grape variety indigenous to Japan. *1: Limited amount to be sold in Japan mainly at SUNTORY TOMI NO OKA WINERY and official EC website SUNTORY FROM FARM Online Shop from 10th September 2024. IWSC is one of the world's most influential competition in the alcohol industry founded in London, UK, in 1969. Entries are judged in separate categories such as wine and spirits, and its results attract the world's attention every year. This year, 120 out of a total of more than 6000 wines that applied to IWSC’s wine category received the gold medal. The company considers this result as a significant recognition to the quality and commitment in its winemaking. “Launching wine made from 100% ‘Koshu’ grape from our flagship brand Tomi has been a long-held dream of all the craftsmen and members involved in our wine business,” shares Keiko Yoshio, Managing Executive Officer, Division COO of Wine Brand Division at Suntory Spirits Ltd. “We are very delighted that this first vintage of SUNTORY FROM FARM Tomi Koshu received the gold medal at IWSC 2024, one of the most prestigious competitions in the world, ahead of its launch. With a goal to make our Japanese wine internationally renowned, we will continue to challenge ourselves to further improve the quality of our Japanese wine products.” <Tasting Notes of SUNTORY FROM FARM Tomi Koshu 2022 > It has a distinctive aroma of juicy fruits such as melon, yellow peach, and Japanese mandarin orange with a hint of yellow flowers and honey on the nose. Together with mild acidity and a bittersweet aftertaste, this dry white wine expresses the concentrated rich flavor and elegant structure. <Initiatives towards developing grape variety ‘Koshu’> Under the philosophy of “Fine wine comes from fine grapes”, the company has been concentrating on growing fine wine grapes and producing high-quality wine, by confronting the Japanese terroir for more than 100 years and evolving its cultivation and brewing technology. In 2022, a new brand series SUNTORY FROM FARM was established with a concept “FROM FARM”, meaning “everything starts from the vineyard”, which is reflected in the brand name. With its attention to detail and commitment to high quality, the company has been producing its wine by dedicating to produce fine wine grapes from unique terroir of Japan. ‘Koshu’ is a grape variety native to Japan as defined by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine. It is a wine grape that represents Japan, characterized by an elegant aroma of Japanese citrus fruits. The company aims to develop ‘Koshu’ to a wine grape that is acclaimed and loved around the world. The company will expand the cultivation area at SUNTORY TOMI NO OKA WINERY and other company-owned vineyards so that more customers and consumers can enjoy ‘Koshu’ wine. In order to produce ‘Koshu’ grapes that achieves the desired wine flavor, the company will further its commitment to enhance its quality, such as by improving the cultivation environment and methods, and selecting only fully ripe bunches at harvest time. Learn more about SUNTORY FROM FARM here , and about Suntory’s Wine Business here . About Suntory Group As a global leader in the beverage industry, Suntory Group offers a uniquely diverse portfolio of products, from premium spirits, beer, wine, ready-to-drink alcohol beverages, to brewed teas, bottled water, still and carbonated soft drinks, ready-to-drink coffee and energy drinks, along with health and wellness products. Suntory is home to award-winning Japanese whiskies Yamazaki , Hibiki and Hakushu, as well as iconic American spirits Jim Beam and Maker's Mark . Suntory also fascinates the taste buds with The Premium Malt's beer, and owns the exceptional Japanese wine, Tomi, and the world-famous Château Lagrange . Its brand collection includes Sauza Tequila , non-alcoholic favorites Orangina , Lucozade , Ribena , BOSS coffee, Iyemon green tea, Suntory Tennensui water, TEA+ Oolong Tea , V and BRAND’S , as well as popular health and wellness product Sesamin EX . Founded as a family-owned business in 1899 in Osaka, Japan, Suntory Group has grown into a global company operating throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania, with an annual revenue (excluding excise taxes) of $20.9 billion in 2023. Its 41,511 employees worldwide draw upon the unique blend of Japanese artisanship and global tastes to explore new product categories and markets. As a corporation sustained by the gifts of nature and water, Suntory Group will always protect the ecosystems that deliver water. Because its ecosystem is the wellspring, not only of its business and the rich experiences the group creates for people's lives, but also of human life itself. Suntory Group will continue to be a company where everyone is empowered with the freedom and flexibility to innovate. Through all of its corporate pursuits, Suntory seeks to inspire the brilliance of life. Learn more about Suntory Group, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility and sustainability at www.suntory.com , on Facebook , X , Instagram , LinkedIn , and YouTube .
- May 21, 2024Education
NX China holds scholarship award ceremony at Beijing Wuzi University
Nippon Express (China) Co., Ltd. (Chairman: Sumitoshi Matsuo, Regional General Manager, East Asia Region; hereinafter "NX China"), a group company of NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC. (President: Satoshi Horikiri), held a scholarship award ceremony at Beijing Wuzi University on Monday, May 6. Founded in 1980, Beijing Wuzi University (hereinafter "BWU") is particularly well-known for its focus on logistics and distribution, and approximately 8,000 students are currently studying at its nine faculties and 28 departments. BWU's School of Logistics, established in 2006, offers robust educational facilities and an exceptional research environment, and is one of China's best faculties specializing in logistics. NX China signed a letter of intent on strategic collaboration with BWU in 2012 and has since been regularly engaged in industrial-academic collaboration with the university, creating an NX Scholarship program and presenting endowed lectures. East Asia Regional General Manager Matsuo, NX China Vice President Yang, and other officials participated in the 2024 China Logistics Forum hosted on May 6 by BWU, with Mr. Yang as the guest of honor delivering a speech entitled "New Era, New Mission, New Logistics". A scholarship award ceremony was conducted during the Forum at which Mr. Matsuo presented certificates to the ten NX Scholarship recipients for Academic Year 2024 and offered them encouragement as he spoke of his expectations of the global roles they would take on in the logistics industry in future. More than 800 people, including company and media representatives as well as students, attended the Forum, making it a valuable opportunity to consider the future of the logistics industry in China. The NX Group remains committed to actively undertaking social contribution activities in the East Asia Region to help develop human resources capable of assuming active roles in the logistics industry.
SELECT NEWS
SUBSCRIBE TO MARKETERSMEDIA NEWS
ALL NEWS
- Billy Lerner and Wife - Talk About iPark Turning Into NYC’s Biggest Private Parking Business
- Say Goodbye to Wallet Addresses: Namelink Makes Crypto Transfers as Easy as Sending an Email
- Government Lab Enterprises Enhances Scientific Research with New Line of Laboratory Furniture
- Government Lab Enterprises Enhances Laboratory Safety with the New Esco Labculture Gen 2E Biosafety Cabinet
- Sparkle Commercial Cleaning: The Go-To Choice for Office Cleanliness in Perth
- California Web Design: Elevating Digital Presence with Innovation and Expertise
- Directo Tech Inc’s Browser Extension Making Waves on Social Media, Whittling up to 25% in Accommodation Costs
- Unique Scales Co. Launches Innovative Body Fat Weight Scales for Holistic Health Insights
- Cyberdrone Unveils Next-Generation Aerial Light Shows: A Fusion Of Technology And Art
- Loraine K Studios Expands Focus with Enhanced Corporate Photography Services in Payson, AZ
- Madlab Business Provides Coach Program to Elevate Gym and Coaching Careers
- Madlab Business Launches Innovative Owner Development Program Transforming Gym Businesses
- Arizona Plasma Offers Custom Metal Signs and Fabrication in the US and Canada
- Madlab Business Presents Owner Development Initiative to Elevate Gym Businesses
- Entelech Launches in the UK and Thailand: Advancing Towards Global Recognition
- INTO University Partnerships’ NILE division and British Council team up on English language programs for Colombian teachers
- London Peach Dreams Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase: New Elegant Limited Edition
- Premiere Properties Vacation Rentals and Property Management, LLC Expands Taos Ski Resort Rental Offerings
ON INSIDER
- CYSM Shapers Introduces Their Limited Seasonal Range Of “Push-Up” Jeans
- Skin-Nomad Launches New Curated Online Store That Takes the Guesswork Out of Finding Clean Skincare
- Dr. Zamip Patel Announces Transformative Scholarship Opportunity for Aspiring Medical Professionals
- Bondex Secures Grant From Telegram For Ton Campaign
- SteveWillDoIt Does Safety Shot: One of the Top Influencers on Social Media Partners with Safety Shot, a Wellness Beverage that Reduces Blood Alcohol & Boosts Clarity
- Lear Capital’s Recent Report Explains Factors For Investors About Digital Currency, U.S. Debt and the Dollar’s Status as the World’s Reserve Currency
- Pet Cooling Mat & Smart Food Dispenser: Cat & Dog Accessories E-Store Launch
- R17 Ventures Addresses European Talent Gap with South African Hub and Apprenticeship Program
- Spring, TX Balloon Sinuplasty Treatment For Chronic Severe Snoring Announced
- PayCo HK Limited Set to Launch Revolutionary Money Transfer Mobile App to Dominate Asian Market
- CYSM Shapers Proudly Launches its Premium Shapewear Bundles and Packs, Helping Buyers Save Money and Always Have a Spare Handy
- Custom Poster Printing (2024): Top Online Custom Printing Service Review Published Compare Before Buying
- Best Business Card Printing (2024): GotPrint Custom Business Card Printing & Design Reviewed by Compare Before Buying
- Best Web Development Bootcamp (2024): Udemy Complete Python Pro Bootcamp Review by Compare Before Buying
- Best Online Learning Platforms (2024): Top Udemy Online Courses Review Published by Compare Before Buying