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Aon Names Karl Hamann as Chief Executive Officer, Philippines


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 February 2026 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today announced the appointment of Karl Hamann as CEO of the Philippines, effective 1 April 2026, subject to regulatory requirements. He will relocate to Manila in the coming months and continue to report to Andrew Minnitt, head of Southeast Asia.

In the Philippines, Hamann will focus on further advancing Aon’s integrated solutions strategy and helping clients navigate increasingly interconnected risks with greater clarity and confidence. He will work closely with regional solution line leaders to align priorities, deepen client engagement and support sustained growth.

Hamann brings more than three decades of experience across Asia Pacific and global markets, with deep expertise in insurance, risk advisory and operational leadership. He has held CEO roles across the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Singapore and South Asia, before joining Aon in 2022 as CEO of Indonesia, where he has implemented modernisation initiatives, strengthened commercial execution and enhanced market connectivity.

Hamann takes over from Darren Oliver, who will transition into a newly appointed regional role as head of market development, APAC Health Solutions, based in Singapore.

“Karl brings a rare combination of on-the-ground experience, commercial discipline and an ability to lead with clarity through change,” said Minnitt. “His familiarity with the Philippines market and his track record across the region make him exceptionally well placed to guide the business forward. I’m confident he will build on the strong momentum that Darren established in recent years, supporting both our clients and colleagues as the market continues to evolve.”

“The Philippines has been an important part of my professional journey, and I’m excited to re-engage with the market in this new capacity,” said Hamann. “Darren has laid down a solid platform for the business, and I’m eager to work with the team to continue strengthening our support for clients and driving the next phase of growth.”

Minnitt added, “These leadership appointments reflect Aon’s continued investment in developing talent and strengthening alignment across Southeast Asia — creating greater opportunities for our colleagues while ensuring we remain well positioned to support clients’ evolving needs in a rapidly changing environment.”

More information about Aon in Asia can be found here.

Hashtag: #Aon

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Aon

(NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses.

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Colebrook Bosson Saunders Officially Launches Lana, A Circular Ergonomic Laptop Stand for the Hybrid Generation

LONDON, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Colebrook Bosson Saunders (CBS), a leader in workplace ergonomics, today officially launches Lana, a next-generation laptop stand that combines ergonomic performance with circular design principles. Following a preview in January, Lana is now fully available across markets, offering organisations and individuals a practical solution designed for the realities of hybrid work.

As workplaces continue to evolve toward flexible layouts and shared environments, CBS has rethought what ergonomic tools should deliver. Lana goes beyond addressing physical comfort alone. It reflects a broader design philosophy focused on longevity, material health and environmental responsibility, aligning with the way people work today while anticipating the expectations of tomorrow’s workplaces.

Engineered for durability, Lana has been tested to withstand more than five years of daily use and is supported by a five-year warranty. Its circular design allows key components to be reused, refurbished or responsibly recycled at the end of their life, including eligibility for CBS’s Second Life refurbishment programme.

“As organisations reimagine their workspaces for flexibility and long-term value, we believe ergonomic tools must evolve too, not only in how they support people, but in how they are made,” said Cecil Huang, Senior Marketing Manager – APAC, Middle East and Africa at CBS. “Lana brings together adaptable performance, verified material health and circular design principles to meet the needs of today’s hybrid workforce and tomorrow’s sustainability goals.”

Designed with a clean, minimal aesthetic, Lana integrates seamlessly into shared desks, touchdown spaces and individual workstations. Its compact form and concealed cabling help maintain an uncluttered workspace. Compatible with laptops up to 16 inches and 2.5kg, Lana enables a streamlined single cable setup when used with USB C charging devices and external wireless peripherals, supporting quick transitions between users in flexible settings.

Lana is now shipping globally, with availability in the United States expanding in April. The product reflects CBS’s long-term vision for workplace tools that balance ergonomics, sustainability and user centred design in a single, portable solution.

About Colebrook Bosson Saunders

Established in 1990 and part of the MillerKnoll collective since 2022, Colebrook Bosson Saunders focuses on seamlessly connecting people with technology, driven by its core values: to innovate, connect, and create.

For more information, please visit https://www.colebrookbossonsaunders.com/.

Media Contact

Cecil Huang

Senior Marketing Manager – APAC, Middle East & Africa

Colebrook Bosson Saunders

Cecil.huang@cbsproducts.co.uk 

AHR Expo 2026: Hitachi Scroll Compressor Highlights High-Efficiency Scroll Compressor Innovations

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From February 2 to 4, Hitachi Scroll Compressor returned to the AHR Expo 2026 in the United States for the second consecutive year, underscoring its sustained engagement with the North American market. As one of the HVACR industry’s most influential global events, the AHR Expo brings together manufacturers, engineers, contractors, and decision-makers to showcase cutting-edge technologies and exchange insights shaping the future of HVACR. Against this backdrop, Hitachi Scroll Compressor highlighted a focused portfolio of scroll compressor solutions aligned with the industry’s efficiency and decarbonization goals.

Booth #C750
Booth #C750

“Our continued engagement with the AHR Expo reflects both consistency and strategic focus,” said Wisdom Hao, GM of Guangzhou Bosch Home Comfort Group Compressor Technology Co., Ltd. “North America remains a key strategic region, particularly as it faces tighter performance benchmarks and higher expectations for long-term operational stability.”

Through the showcase at the AHR Expo 2026, Hitachi Scroll Compressor presented its newly launched products alongside proven models, demonstrating how the portfolio evolves to meet customer requirements.

A major highlight at its booth was its newly introduced high-efficiency low-side scroll compressor, designed in response to rising efficiency expectations and application demands in the unitary market. Aligned with global energy-saving and decarbonization trends, the product delivers measurable improvements in seasonal efficiency, lower operating noise, and stable performance under varying load conditions. It represents the latest generation in Hitachi’s scroll compressor technology roadmap, building on decades of expertise while introducing targeted upgrades for today’s efficiency-driven market.

The two-stage design originates from the world’s first scroll compressor family developed by Hitachi and inherits its benchmark performance and durability. An upgraded solenoid valve enables precise two-step capacity control, supporting more efficient part-load operation, while the scroll load design has been optimized to meet SEER2 requirements. A newly developed motor improves light-load performance, and high-precision machining and assembly contribute to durability and operational stability. Dual compliance for liquid and debris handling further strengthens robustness in real-world conditions.

In addition to low-side solutions, Hitachi Scroll Compressor showcased a lineup of high-side scroll compressors addressing a broader range of North American applications, including heat pump heating and cooling, commercial refrigeration and cold storage, as well as data center and equipment cooling. As demand increases for systems capable of stable operation across wider temperature ranges, the high-side scroll compressors offer strong adaptability and performance consistency.

Designed with a wide operating envelope, the high-side scroll compressors support stable operation in both heating and cooling modes. They are compatible with environmentally friendly refrigerants such as R290, R32, and R454B, aligning with the industry’s shift toward lower-global-warming-potential solutions. Compatibility with enhanced vapor injection technology further enhances heating efficiency, particularly in colder climates.

Together, the technologies presented at AHR Expo underscored Hitachi Scroll Compressor’s innovation strategy—advancing core compressor technologies while closely aligning with regulatory trends and end-user priorities. From residential and light commercial systems to complex industrial applications, the company’s portfolio is designed to help equipment manufacturers achieve higher efficiency, quieter operation, and dependable long-term performance.

Looking ahead, Hitachi Scroll Compressor plans to deepen collaboration across the HVACR value chain, using international platforms such as AHR Expo to share insights, gather market feedback, and accelerate the adoption of efficient, reliable, and sustainable compressor technologies amid the global energy transition.

For more information, please visit https://compressors.hitachiaircon.com/en.

Hanon Systems Announces Full Year 2025 Financial Results

Annual Revenue Reaches KRW 10.88 Trillion, Representing 8.9% Year-on-Year Growth

  • Annual revenue reached KRW 10.88 trillion, representing 8.9% year-on-year growth with operating profit of KRW 271.8 billion
  • Operating margin remained above 3.4% in both Q3 and Q4, reflecting continued profitability improvement
  • Cost of sales ratio was maintained below 90% for two consecutive quarters, highlighting continued improvements in operational efficiency

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hanon Systems, a leading global automotive thermal management supplier and subsidiary of Hankook & Company Group, today announced its full year 2025 financial results.

In 2025, Hanon Systems recorded annual revenue of KRW 10.88 trillion, an increase from KRW 9.99 trillion in the previous year. Operating profit reached KRW 271.8 billion, driven by company-wide operational improvements and efficiency initiatives implemented following its acquisition by Hankook & Company Group.

As a result, the company maintained an operating margin of 3.5% in the third quarter and 3.4% in the fourth quarter, representing two consecutive quarters above the 3% level. The cost of sales ratio was maintained below 90% for the second consecutive quarter, highlighting continued improvements in profitability and cost structure.

Through ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial structure, net interest expenses decreased by KRW 28.8 billion year-on-year. The company expects its recent capital increase to further reduce financial burden associated with interest costs.

Hanon Systems continued to diversify its global customer portfolio, strengthening existing partnerships while securing new OEM customers in Asia. Leveraging its system-level thermal management solutions and diverse product portfolio supporting nearly all vehicle types, the company aims to further expand its presence in the global market.

Electrified-vehicle sales accounted for 28% of total revenue in 2025. As the global automotive market’s transition to electrification continues to lag behind expectations, internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) models maintain strong market presence in many regions. In response, Hanon Systems plans to maximize profitability of its core ICE and HEV products, while remaining flexible in addressing electrification and hybrid demand.

Hanon Systems has developed a comprehensive thermal management portfolio supporting ICE, HEV, battery electric vehicles (BEV), extended-range electric vehicles (EREV), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). The company has established early technological leadership in electric vehicle thermal management, positioning itself as a leading global supplier in automotive thermal management.  

Looking ahead, the company stated that it will continue to prioritize cost structure improvements and profitability recovery, building upon achievements achieved during 2025.

“Despite ongoing global uncertainty, we remain committed to strengthening our fundamental business structure, fostering corporate culture innovation, and achieving operational stability alongside Hankook & Company Group,” said Lee Soo-il, Vice Chairman and CEO of Hanon Systems.

“This year, we will accelerate growth by reinforcing operational discipline, strengthening our R&D capabilities, and pursuing new business opportunities leveraging our thermal management expertise.”

 Q4 2025  

 Q3 2025  

 Q3 2024  

 Q2 2025  

Revenue

KRW 2,702.5 billion

KRW 2,705.7 billion

KRW 2,499.8 billion

KRW 2,858.2 billion

Operating
Profit

KRW 91.2 billion

KRW 95.3 billion

KRW 93.7 billion

KRW 64.3 billion

About Hanon Systems
Hanon Systems, founded in 1986, is a global leader in thermal management solutions. In January 2025, it became a subsidiary of Hankook & Company Group. Its offering includes a wide range of solutions in the areas of heating, ventilation and air conditioning, powertrain cooling, compressor, fluid transport, and electronics and fluid pressure. The company currently operates 50 manufacturing sites and three regional innovation centers and employs more than 20,000 people across 21 countries. To learn more, visit hanonsystems.com.

Follow Hanon Systems:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hanonsystems
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6bSZ7NMg7LPhXDyTOMwebQ/feed

 

LG Innotek Accelerates European Market Penetration with Automotive Lighting Showcase in Germany

  • Showcasing Nexlide innovations at DVN Lighting Workshop (February 4 to 5) 
  • Introducing ‘Nexlide Air and Pixel’, featuring proprietary surface light source technology 
  • Accelerating European market penetration through targeted OEM roadshows

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LG Innotek (CEO Moon Hyuksoo) will unveil its advanced vehicle lighting technology in Germany, the historic home of automotive innovation.

LG Innotek employee demonstrate ‘Nexlide Pixel’, which achieves the world’s thinnest pixel size (0.08×0.08inch) among vehicle lighting solutions for significantly improved resolution.
LG Innotek employee demonstrate ‘Nexlide Pixel’, which achieves the world’s thinnest pixel size (0.08×0.08inch) among vehicle lighting solutions for significantly improved resolution.

On February 3, 2026, the company announced that it will participate in the 39th Lighting Workshop hosted by Driving Vision News (DVN), showcasing its next-generation automotive lighting technologies.

DVN, headquartered in France, is an authoritative specialized media outlet and academic organization serving the automotive components industry. The DVN Lighting Workshop, held annually worldwide, brings together leading global vehicle OEMs and automotive electronics component makers to discuss core challenges in the car lighting industry while providing a premier venue for exchanging information on technological trends and insights.

The 39th DVN Lighting Workshop will be held at Olympia Park, Munich, Germany, from February 4 to 5, 2026. During the workshop, LG Innotek will operate a dedicated exhibition booth showcasing its latest ‘Nexlide’ product lineup.

Its leading products include ‘Nexlide Air’, a thin and lightweight lighting solution optimized for bumper and grille applications using ultra-light silicon-based materials, and ‘Nexlide Pixel’, which achieves the world’s thinnest pixel size (0.08×0.08inch) among vehicle lighting solutions for significantly improved resolution. LG Innotek’s Ultra-Thin Pixel Lighting Module (Nexlide Pixel) received the CES 2026 Innovation Award. 

‘Nexlide Pixel’ displays high-resolution text and images through vehicle lighting and represents a major advancement in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication capabilities.

For example, in emergency situations, the lettering function enables transmission of in–vehicle status information to emergency responders, while emoticon displays enable drivers to express their individuality.

LG Innotek’s exhibition will also highlight ‘Nexlide Cube’, which creates 3D lighting effects through a multilayered structure that produces a floating light illusion (where light appears suspended in the air), and ‘Nexlide C+’, featuring angle-dependent 3D multi-effects that display different images based on viewing angle.

Following the DVN Lighting Workshop, LG Innotek plans to accelerate its penetration of the European automotive market through targeted roadshows for major OEM customers. By 2030, the company aims to grow its automotive lighting business to about USD 691 million.

LG Innotek has actively promoted its automotive lighting solutions in Europe, including through webinars for European automakers and component makers last year.

Byaeng kuk Yoo, senior vice president and head of the Mobility Solution Business Unit, said: “LG Innotek will continue launching innovative lighting solutions that provide customers with differentiated experiences and grow as a technology partner that is trusted by customers in Europe and Japan, expanding beyond North American markets.”

[Reference] ‘Nexlide,‘ LG Innotek‘s automotive lighting brand, uses surface light source technology to enable uniform lighting across an extended surface without conventional thickness constraints.

LG Innotek holds more than 700 patents related to surface light source technology. This technology enables ultra-slim vehicle lighting modules to emit brighter, more evenly distributed light while substantially enhancing design freedom for customers in vehicle design.

 

IUIGA Strengthens Omnichannel Retail Strategy and Expands Product Innovations for Modern Homes

SINGAPORE, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IUIGA, the Singapore home and lifestyle brand known for its timeless design and honest pricing, is entering a new phase of strategic growth with strengthened omnichannel operations, expanded furniture categories, and new innovations designed to support modern living.

Strengthening Omnichannel Retail Operations

A key focus for IUIGA this year is enhancing its omnichannel retail experience to deliver seamless shopping across both online and offline platforms. The brand recently achieved a major milestone with the implementation of its customised retail management system, significantly improving inventory accuracy, fulfilment efficiency, and overall customer experience. These operational enhancements continue to drive IUIGA’s commitment to convenience, transparency and service excellence.

Introducing Smart Home Fittings & Modular Furniture Systems 

In line with evolving consumer lifestyles, IUIGA has expanded its product offerings to include smart home fittings and modular furniture systems designed for flexible, space-optimised living. These new additions highlight the brand’s focus on thoughtful design and functional versatility, giving homeowners greater freedom to customise their homes without compromising aesthetics or durability.

Timeless Design and Transparent Pricing: IUIGA’s Brand Philosophy

IUIGA continues to differentiate itself through its dedication to timeless, high-quality design supported by transparent sourcing practices. Every piece is crafted with long-lasting materials to ensure durability, comfort and honest value, reflecting a core philosophy that has shaped the brand since its inception.

“At IUIGA, our mission has always been to create beautiful, functional homes through honest pricing and thoughtful design. We focus on long-lasting materials like solid wood and E0-grade low formaldehyde plywood to ensure that every piece brings both comfort and longevity to our customers’ spaces.”

— Jaslyn Chan, Chief Growth Officer, IUIGA

Integrated Partnerships That Enhance Home Transformation 

To support homeowners at every stage of their renovation journey, IUIGA continues to work closely with renovation partners, carpentry factories and select design studios. These collaborations strengthen the brand’s ability to deliver integrated, end-to-end home transformation solutions while maintaining consistency in quality and design.

Sustainability and Healthier Homes as a Design Priority 

Sustainability has always shaped how IUIGA designs its products. By working with solid wood furniture and E0-grade low formaldehyde plywood in renovation projects, the brand prioritises durability, reduced emissions and healthier indoor spaces. It’s part of IUIGA’s ongoing effort to help customers build safer, longer-lasting homes.

Discover IUIGA’s Latest Home Innovations

Explore IUIGA’s growing range of modular furniture, smart fittings, and home essentials at: https://www.iuiga.com/

About IUIGA

IUIGA is a Singapore-founded home and lifestyle brand offering thoughtfully designed, long-lasting products at honest prices. With a strong omnichannel presence and commitment to material transparency, IUIGA continues to help customers create beautiful, functional homes built for modern living.

 

Early Work Begins on Road Linking Bolikhamxay, Xaysomboun

Early groundwork on Road 13 South Road 5A project in Laos
Bolikhamxay Xaysomboun road project construction site. (Photo by Tholakhong)

Authorities have inspected early construction work on the Road 13 South–Road 5A project, as groundwork advances on the first unpaved section linking Bolikhamxay and Xaysomboun provinces.

The project spans 115.8 kilometres, running from the Road 13 South junction in Pa Lai village, Thaphabath district, Bolikhamxay Province, to the Road 5A junction at Nam Yone Bridge in Anouvong district, Xaysomboun Province. 

The project carries a total investment of more than USD 225 million and follows a build–operate–transfer (BOT) model. BOT is a private firm that funds and builds a project and operates it for profits (toll collections), which will later transfer the project to the government. 

Officials said tolls will apply after completion only to vehicles weighing more than 9.5 tonnes.

Construction has begun on the initial dirt-road section, covering nearly 30 kilometres, which will later connect to paved sections under subsequent phases. 

The Department of Roads instructed the construction company to prepare a detailed design for the first phase, covering the stretch from kilometre 7+000 to kilometre 35+875, with an actual construction length of about 28.9 kilometres.

After receiving approval from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the company began preliminary field work. 

Current progress includes route clearance, completion of a concrete batching plant, and sub-base construction along roughly 10 kilometres of the route.

AITO Delivered Over 420,000 Vehicles in 2025, Topping China’s Luxury Brand Rankings

CHONGQING, China, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In 2025, SERES NEV sales exceeded 470,000 units, cementing the company’s position as industry leader. The flagship AITO brand especially stood out, with over 420,000 vehicles delivered throughout the year—making it the top-selling luxury brand in the Chinese market. This achievement underscored AITO’s leadership in China’s high-end new energy market and the rise of Chinese brands in the premium automotive segment.

Cumulative Luxury Car Brand Sales in the Chinese Market, 2025
Cumulative Luxury Car Brand Sales in the Chinese Market, 2025

AITO’s sustained success is no accident. Its “blockbuster” appeal stemmed from precise product positioning, robust capabilities, and a strong reputation among users. All of this resulted in a strong product lineup in the CNY 200,000 to 600,000 price range. The AITO M9 proved to be a true phenomenon, with cumulative deliveries exceeding 270,000 units and a 21-month run as the top model in its segment.

At the same time, the AITO M8 and M7 also established leading positions in their respective segments: the M8 was the best-selling model in the CNY 400,000 segment for six consecutive months, and cumulative deliveries of the M7 surpassed 400,000 units, setting a benchmark in the market. Together, these three flagship models drove brand momentum and reinforced AITO’s competitive edge in the high-end market.

AITO Achieves Record Growth
AITO Achieves Record Growth

Beyond sales, AITO’s sterling reputation and high vehicle value retention continued to fuel its strong market performance. AITO surpassed traditional luxury brands like BMW and Audi in the Chinese automotive market research firm LandRoad’s New Energy Vehicle Brand Index. With an average vehicle price of CNY 400,000, it also overtook the BBA group (BMW, Benz, and Audi) to become China’s leading luxury automotive brand. This milestone signified both AITO’s dominance in scale and a significant rise in brand reputation, customer trust, and value, establishing it as the top choice for discerning consumers.

Looking ahead, as it expands globally, advances its technologies, and broadens its portfolio, AITO will further strengthen its leadership in the luxury NEV market. With growing confidence, AITO is set to drive greater breakthroughs for Chinese automotive brands worldwide.