Powerledger and Energie Steiermark launch smartCOMMUNITY energy monitoring and trading platform across Austria.
Energie Steiermark is one of Austria’s leading energy providers, with over 600,000 consumers.
smartCOMMUNITY is designed to enable prosumers not only to monitor their energy usage and production, but also to be able to share their surplus with other participants of their choice across Austria through PPAs or using Peer-to-Peer trading.
Moreover, prosumers have the opportunity to sell their energy at competitive rates compared to typical feed-in tariffs in Austria.
Zug, Switzerland – Newsfile Corp. – July 8, 2024 – Energy software technology company Powerledger and one of Austria’s leading energy providers, Energie Steiermark collaborated to launch a new energy trading platform called smartCOMMUNITY, which allows users to control the distribution of energy generated from their solar assets.
PowerLedger & Energie Steiermark
The smartCOMMUNITY platform was launched in July 2023 and enables residential household and business customers of Energie Steiermark to manage their surplus electricity generated from solar. The platform empowers prosumers to share their clean energy with family and friends and other consumers on the platform enabling them to procure renewable energy made in Austria at an optimum price. This summer, Energie Steiermark welcomes first municipalities, medium enterprises, and industrial customers to join the smartCOMMUNITY ecosystem.
Dr. Jemma Green, Chairman and Co-founder, Powerledger
Dr. Jemma Green, Co-founder and Chairman, Powerledger, explains there are significant benefits from establishing the smartCOMMUNITY platform for both the buyers and sellers.
“Households and businesses can now define the recipients as well as the pricing of the power they’ve generated, which marks a significant shift in mindset. Instead of merely feeding excess electricity into the grid, they now have the freedom to exercise choice and control over their self-generated power,” said Powerledger Co-founder and Chairman, Dr. Jemma Green. Energie Steiermark Kunden GmbH’s CEO, Josef Landschützer
“The smartCOMMUNITY platform isn’t just about trading energy, it is about empowering customers to have better control over their renewable energy generation and consumption. With new industrial customers and municipalities joining this smartCOMMUNITY ecosystem, we are hopeful to actively contribute to Austria’s target of reaching 100% renewable energy supply by 2030,” said Energie Steiermark Kunden GmbH’s CEO, Josef Landschützer.
The smartCOMMUNITY platform offers a number of key features, including:
Energy monitoring: Customers such as households, municipalities, medium enterprises, and industrial customers can monitor their energy usage, consumption, and generation, as well as track their savings and revenue from energy trading.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Customers can create customised PPAs with other members of the platform across Austria, allowing them to buy and sell electricity at agreed-upon prices.
Peer-to-peer trading: Customers can buy and sell electricity directly from and to other members.
Control over pricing: Customers can set their own maximum and minimum prices for buying and selling electricity, giving them flexibility and control over their expenditures and revenue.
Control over timing: Customers can time their PPAs to match their behavioural patterns, consumption profile and convenience.
Control over buyer/seller: Customers can choose who they buy and sell electricity from.
“It’s about decentralising the power of production of renewables and enabling end-customers to play an active role in the energy market. Business consumers can use this tool to manage risks and hedge against price volatility in the wholesale energy market,” said Energie Steiermark’s Project Manager, Daria Mayskaya.
This blockchain-powered energy trading platform not only empowers users with freedom of choice but also fosters stronger communities, giving control back to the people.
About Powerledger Powerledger is a software company that uses blockchain, AI and Web3 to solve pressing energy challenges and enabling customers to access and trade cheaper, cleaner electricity. Powerledger’s software and features work alongside the existing infrastructure of energy systems, enabling greater control and ownership for consumers and producers alike. Power utilities, governments, and large corporations use Powerledger’s solutions to be at the forefront of the energy transition by tracking, tracing, and trading every kilowatt hour of energy. Headquartered in Zug, Powerledger is recognised as one of the top 50 companies in Crypto Valley, Switzerland.
About Energie Steiermark Energie Steiermark is one of Austria’s leading energy providers, with over 600,000 customers. The company offers a wide range of energy products and services, including electricity, gas, heating, and various EV products and services. Energie Steiermark is committed to providing its customers with reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions.
Hashtag: #Powerledger
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Kodifly has raised $750K from Laidlaw Scholars Ventures to support its mission of enhancing infrastructure management through advanced spatial intelligence.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 July 2024 – Kodifly, a technology company using AI to support infrastructure management and increased safety in the Transportation sector announced today a $750K investment from Laidlaw Scholars Ventures. This funding will support Kodifly’s productization of its solutions, which use machine learning to create digital twins of environments using LiDAR and real-time video analytics within urban environments.
Kodifly team and their hardware suite
Kodifly, founded in 2021 by Henry Wong and Muhammad Saad Shahid Anwel, both former Laidlaw Scholars at The University of Hong Kong, focuses on leveraging a combination of camera, and LiDAR and uses its proprietary AI models to improve urban mobility and infrastructure resilience. Their products include solutions for traffic management, pedestrian safety, driver aids and environmental monitoring, enabling any combination of fixed and mobile input data, and real-time or periodic analysis, to deliver actionable insights for rail operators, transport managers and city planners.
This is the first funding round that the business has taken from external investors, and the team are keen to use these funds to transition the business from its core expertise within the railway sector into both Airport and Highway Management and overseas expansion, with existing contracts secured within Hong Kong. Their sales pipeline includes numerous operators of transportation infrastructure across Southeast Asia, the UK and the US, and they anticipate their market-leading digital-twin platform being rapidly adopted.
Henry Wong, co-founder and CEO of Kodifly, expressed his enthusiasm: “This investment from Laidlaw Scholars Ventures marks a significant milestone for Kodifly. It will empower us to advance our AI technologies, productize our offerings, and expand our market presence. Ultimately, this will help operators enhance infrastructure management efficiency, improve safety, and reduce maintenance costs by leveraging smart city technology through 3D perception and analytics.”
Niall Santamaria, Chief Investment Officer of LSV, said, “Henry and Saad are exceptional entrepreneurs who were early to identify the opportunities and potential of spatial data. The models they are building have the potential to automate the detection and analysis of any anomaly, and while their success in the Transportation sector is evident, the data they are interpreting has far broader applications, with vast opportunity.” Hashtag: #Kodifly #AI #Infrastructure
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Kodifly
At Kodifly, our mission is to transform transport infrastructure management through our spatial intelligence platform. By leveraging innovative 3D perception and analytics, we make spatial data accessible and actionable, empowering the global transition to smart cities. Our platform enhances the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of transport infrastructure, driving the future of intelligent urban development.
About Laidlaw Scholars Ventures
Laidlaw Scholars Ventures (LSV) is a for-profit business investing in start-ups founded and run by Laidlaw Scholars. Backed by a $50m fund, LSV accelerates Good Businesses by financing growth, providing support services, delivering extensive training and development, and bringing a network of expert advisors and mentors. All profits from LSV will be returned to the Laidlaw Foundation to invest in its educational programmes designed to break the cycle of poverty, reduce inequality and develop a new generation of ethical leaders.
PHU YEN, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 July 2024 – The Indochina Kajima Development Company Limited (Indochina Kajima) is delighted to announce that Mandarin Oriental, Bai Nom has been awarded its construction permit from the Department of Construction – the People’s Committee of Phu Yen Province on June 11, 2024. This marks a significant milestone in Indochina Kajima’s development of the ultra-luxury resort in Vietnam.
View to Hill Residences & Beach Residences. Photo courtesy of Indochina Kajima.
Mandarin Oriental, Bai Nom will be an exclusive resort and branded residences project situated in Phu Yen Province along a naturally stunning and pristine beachfront site. The masterfully designed resort will feature 72 villas and pavilions, including 25 branded residences for sale ranging from three to five bedrooms alongside a wide array of amenities to be managed by the world-renowned Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. The project has been a focal point of Indochina Kajima’s development efforts for several years. With the strong support and close cooperation from Phu Yen provincial authorities, Indochina Kajima celebrates the construction permit which brings them closer to their vision of establishing Vietnam’s premier luxury resort destination.
Reflecting on this key milestone, Peter Ryder, Executive Chairman of Indochina Capital and Board Member of Indochina Kajima, noted, “We are pleased to receive the construction permit for Mandarin Oriental, Bai Nom. Our effort put into obtaining the construction permit for such a complex, one-of-a kind development reflects our commitment to creating world-class properties across Vietnam. We thank the Phu Yen Province authorities for their support, and we look forward to working closely with them as we progress towards creating Vietnam’s next sustainable standard-setting ultra-luxury resort.”
On the momentous occasion, Mr. Keisuke Koshijima, Representative Director and Executive Vice President of Kajima Corporation and Board Member of Indochina Kajima, said: “The issuance of the construction permit is a testament to the collaborative efforts between Indochina Kajima and the local authorities. Given Kajima’s long history of building the highest quality projects in the world, we plan to follow suit by setting a new standard in Vietnam for quality and sustainability with the development and construction of Mandarin Oriental, Bai Nom.
“We are very excited to be part of this project and look forward to contributing our experience and expertise to the successful and timely rollout of this outstanding property.”
Situated near the border of Binh Dinh province, home to Quy Nhon City, the Mandarin Oriental, Bai Nom is positioned in one of Vietnam’s most pristine and naturally stunning regions. Located on a spectacular 57-hectare site, adjacent to the traditional fishing village of Hòa An, the resort will feature a private cove with an untouched beach spanning over 800 metres. The breath-taking location is bordered by headlands rising to 80 metres, offering panoramic views of south-central Vietnam’s picturesque and rugged cove-dotted coastline and mountainous interior.
The architecture and interior design incorporate many natural Vietnamese elements and local cultural references. Located directly on the beach and spread through the hills, the resort’s hotel accommodation will include private terraces and pools. A variety of cuisines will be offered at three restaurants and bars, all with views of the surrounding ocean, beach and cliffs. A Spa at Mandarin Oriental will sit on the resort’s cliff top, providing 360-degree views and Mandarin Oriental’s unique wellness experiences. In addition, a Children’s Club will come with a dedicated swimming pool and an activity centre offering outdoor adventure areas.
The project’s branded residences will set a new benchmark for luxury living in Vietnam and will provide among the very best offerings in the region. Spread across 29 hectares, there will be an impressive collection of sixteen Hill Residences and nine Beach Residences, all with unobstructed panoramic ocean, cliff, and beach views. These elegantly appointed and fully furnished homes will be situated on expansive plots with private gardens, infinity pools and terraces. The residential areas have been planned and developed to offer villa owners the utmost privacy creating a beachfront retreat lifestyle unlike any other in Vietnam.
Indochina Kajima is proud to bring to market these exceptional residences managed by Mandarin Oriental, the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bai Nom will be one of only eight Mandarin Oriental resort residences globally, reflecting the exclusive nature of the spectacular 25 residences available for sale.
With construction advancing rapidly, Indochina Kajima will unveil details on a privileged offer for interested buyers in early 2025.
Hashtag: #IndochinaKajima
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Indochina Kajima
In September 2016, Indochina Capital, a leader in Vietnam’s rapidly growing real estate, financial services and capital markets, entered a joint venture with Kajima Corporation, one of the largest Japanese general contractors and overseas real estate developers, to launch Indochina Kajima, a new real estate development platform in Vietnam. Indochina Kajima is fully committed to creating innovative sustainable real estate developments that build value for partners, clients and investors, while providing fulfilling opportunities for employees and enriching the communities in which they operate. Indochina Kajima has established a nationwide footprint with a focus on Hà Nội, the Central Coast and Ho Chi Minh City.
About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Recognised for creating exceptional properties, each destination reflects the Group’s oriental heritage, local culture and unique design. The Group’s mission is to completely delight and inspire guests through delivering passionate service.
Having grown from its Asian roots over 60 years ago into a global brand, the Group now operates 40 hotels, 12 residences and 24 exclusive homes in 26 countries and territories with many more projects under development.
Mandarin Oriental continues to drive its reputation as an innovative leader in luxury hospitality, delivering sustainable growth over the long term. For more information, please visit https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/.
HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 July 2024 – As the most anticipated annual event in the Health industry, the 22nd International Medical, Hospital and Pharmaceutical Exhibition – Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2024 – will officially take place from August 1 to 3, 2024 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) – 799 Nguyen Van Linh Street, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.
The exhibition is organised by Vinexad JSC. and Ho Chi Minh City Medical Equipment Association (HMEA) under the ownership of the Ministry of Health as a bridge to bring opportunities for cooperation and business expansion for businesses operates in the field of medicine and pharmacy, an industry with huge potential for development in Vietnam.
Products and Services in the Medical and Pharmaceutical Sector have Long-term Development Potential
According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global medical device market size is expected to grow from USD 637.04 billion in 2024 to USD 893.07 billion in 2029, with an annual growth rate of 6.99%.
The medical device market in Vietnam is also showing strong growth signals, with a market size of US$1.677 million, ranking eighth in the Asia-Pacific region, and an annual compound growth rate (CAGR) of 10.2%. Additionally, this sector has been attracting substantial foreign investment through mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
The Boom in the Business and Manufacturing Market for Medical & Pharmaceutical Products and Services is Driven by Several Factors
Firstly, the population aging trend is on the rise. According to data from the General Statistics Office of Vietnam, the population group aged 60 and above increased from 11.9% in 2019 to 13.9% in 2023, correlating with chronic diseases and age-related illnesses, which frequently require healthcare services.
Secondly, the standard of living is improving, not only in urban areas but also in rural areas. People are increasingly willing to invest significant amounts of money in purchasing health-enhancing products and equipment.
Thirdly, Vietnam has numerous policies attracting foreign investors and encouraging technology transfer. For example: The National Strategy for the Development of the Vietnamese Pharmaceutical Industry until 2030 with a vision to 2045, approved in October 2023, and the Plan for Developing the Network of Medical Facilities for the 2021-2030 period with a vision to 2050, approved in February 2024.
Overall, it can be seen that the medical and pharmaceutical sector is always a potential field attracting the interest of many businesses. Specialised exhibitions like Vietnam Medi-Pharm Expo 2024 provide opportunities for businesses in this field to interact, exchange, promote their products and services, and expand their network of customers and partners. This is where businesses can seek cooperation opportunities, develop their business, and enhance their market position.
Vietnam Medipharm Expo in HCMC: Over 20 Years of Supporting Businesses
For over 20 years, The Vietnam Medipharm Expo in HCMC has established its reputation and quality, expanding its scale and increasing the number of exhibitors each year.
Most recently, Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2023 achieved outstanding results, welcoming over 12,000 visitors. The exhibition showcased a wide range of products across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging machinery/equipment, medical equipment, analytical and laboratory devices, dental equipment, ophthalmic technology and products, cosmetic and beauty devices, medical examination and treatment services and medical tourism.
The success of Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2023 is a proud milestone for the organizer, Vinexad, and serves as a foundation for Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2024 to continue being the most anticipated international medical and pharmaceutical exhibition.
The 22nd International Medical, Hospital and Pharmaceutical Exhibition – The Most Anticipated Annual Event in the Healthcare Sector
The 22nd International Medical, Hospital and Pharmaceutical Exhibition – Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2024 will gather over 500 booths from 450 enterprises across 22 countries and territories. This year’s exhibition, covering an area of up to 10,000 square metres, will feature large national pavilions from countries such as India, Taiwan, South Korea, Indonesia, Latvia, Sri Lanka, Turkey and China.
The number of display categories will still include six main groups, which are: pharmaceuticals, functional foods and chemicals; processing, and packaging machinery; medical machinery and equipment, analytical and laboratory equipment; hospital services, medical tourism and medical software; dental and ophthalmic equipment; cosmetics, beauty, and aesthetic equipment. Noteworthy participants include reputable domestic businesses in the healthcare sector such as NQ MEDICAL CORPORATION, KOSMEN JOINT STOCK COMPANY, THANH TRUC MEDICAL AESTHETIC EQUIPMENT CO., LTD., GALAXY WATER SOLUTIONS TRADING CO., LTD., FPT SOFTWARE, …
Especially, the exhibition will feature world-renowned brands such as SHENYANG PUSM MEDICAL DEVICE CO., LTD (China), ARIES AS (Czech Republic), SGH MEDICAL PHARMA (France), BAL PHARMA LIMITED (India), IPP JAPAN CO., LTD (Japan), APACOR (UK), GLOBAL SWISS GROUP, and more.
The gathering of numerous prominent brands underscores the exhibition’s appeal, proving the trade promotion effectiveness that the event has brought to businesses over the past 20 years. The exhibition is also an opportunity for domestic products to be displayed alongside international brands, enhancing and affirming the position of Vietnamese enterprises.
Thanks to the results achieved from the 2023 exhibition, this year’s event continues to receive support from government-backed enterprises such as NIKOM (Korean National Institute of Medical Development), PHARMEXCIL (Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India), FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry), LIAA (Investment and Development Agency of Latvia) and EDB (Sri Lanka Export Development Board).
Moreover, Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2024 will organize high-profile activities for businesses, such as the “Medtech 4.0” seminar, the business exchange forum “Vietnam – India Pharmaceutical Cooperation,” and discussions on “Bidding Laws and Updated Policies, Vietnam’s Medical and Pharmaceutical Market.” Each activity serves as a bridge for entrepreneurs and business leaders to meet, exchange experiences, and move towards sustainable cooperation in the future.
Additionally, the 2024 International Medical and Pharmaceutical Exhibition will welcome thousands of visitors to explore and experience a wide range of products, participate in check-in activities to receive gifts, get free eye exams, and more. This allows visitors to choose healthcare brands that suit their needs.
With its practical significance, the 22nd International Medical, Hospital and Pharmaceutical Exhibition – Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2024 promises to bring many valuable contracts, long-term business relationships, and cooperation opportunities. It also provides Vietnamese enterprises with the chance to understand market demands, enhance their competitiveness in the international market.
Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2024 will officially take place from August 1 to 3, 2024, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) – 799 Nguyen Van Linh Street, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City
Marks debut of The Unlimited Collection brand and expansion of lyf brand with six new property signings in Europe
Enters into multi-year partnership with Chelsea Football Club as the “Official Global Hotels Partner”
Operator of stadium hotels to be rebranded as lyf Stamford Bridge London
LONDON, UK/SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2024 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the lodging business unit wholly owned by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), today announced several major milestones in the European market as it accelerates its global expansion strategy. These include the addition of six new properties to its European portfolio, marking the debut of The Unlimited Collection brand and expansion of the lyf brand in the region. Building on a growing demand for Ascott’s suite of brands, these new signings will boost Ascott’s portfolio in Europe by 14% to about 8,000 units across six brands, and extend Ascott’s presence in the region to 29 cities from 24. The five new cities are Colmar in France, as well as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leicester and Manchester in the United Kingdom.
Ascott and Chelsea ink multi-year global hotels partnership
To further boost Ascott’s visibility in Europe and support its expansive global network, Ascott has entered a strategic multi-year partnership with Chelsea Football Club (Chelsea), becoming the Official Global Hotels Partner of the English Premier League club. Ascott will also assume management of the 232-unit stadium hotels at London’s Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea, from 2H 2024. To be rebranded as lyf Stamford Bridge London in 2H 2025, the properties will be an anchor showcase of Ascott’s hospitality to Chelsea fans from around the world. For more information on the partnership, please refer to the joint news release between Ascott and Chelsea.
Mr Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer for Ascott and CLI Lodging, said: “As a global tourism and business hub, Europe plays a key role in Ascott’s expansion plans. The diverse and dynamic nature of its hospitality sector offers plenty of scope for Ascott to drive more successful partnerships with owners. We will achieve this by leveraging Ascott’s flex-hybrid hotel-in-residence model, which is designed to meet the varying needs of owners and guests through a wide selection of brands and customised solutions, backed by experienced teams with deep local knowledge.”
“With five of the six new signings in Europe year to date being conversion projects, Ascott’s established suite of conversion capabilities has already been proven as effective in gaining the confidence of property owners. We expect franchise management to be our next pillar of growth in Europe, where market conditions are conducive for this business segment. For our existing owners, we will continue to deliver sustained value by embarking on asset enhancement initiatives that elevate the stay experiences of guests,” added Mr Goh.
Mr Lee Ngor Houai, Chief Operating Officer, Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA), South Asia and China, Ascott, said: “Our European portfolio has been delivering strong performance, driving average daily rates of almost 30% higher than pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, our properties in Europe far exceeded all other markets in terms of revenue per available unit (RevPAU) and contributed to almost 16% of Ascott’s global revenue. By expanding and strengthening Ascott’s presence in some of Europe’s key markets, we will be better positioned to capture the growth opportunities in Europe and contribute to the region’s thriving tourism sector.”
“Europe also serves as a significant source of guests for Ascott’s extensive network of hotels worldwide. In 2023, travellers from Europe contributed to about 16% of Ascott’s global hospitality business. Riding on Ascott’s expanded portfolio in Europe coupled with increased efforts to build on the brand in the region, we are targeting to almost double this figure to 30% by 2028, placing Europe as a top three source market for Ascott,” added Mr Lee.
Leveraging Partnerships for Expansion of Global Reach
Starting July 2024, Ascott will become the Official Global Hotels Partner of Chelsea for the next four seasons. Leveraging Chelsea’s strong following as one of the world’s 10 most popular football clubs[1], Ascott aims to introduce its extensive portfolio of hospitality brands and properties around the globe to a new catchment of guests.
This partnership will see collaborative efforts in offering “money can’t buy” experiences for members of the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme worldwide. These include exclusive access to matches at Stamford Bridge and VIP visits to The Blues Cobham Training Ground. The Ascott brand will also be displayed at Stamford Bridge for both Men’s and Women’s matches, as well as across Chelsea’s social and digital channels with engaging content for fans to enjoy. In line with Ascott’s commitment to bring Chelsea closer to its overseas fans, Ascott will become the presenting partner of Chelsea’s flagship international fan engagement event, the Famous CFC, in two international markets.
Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “The partnership taps on the strong synergy between Ascott and Chelsea as storied brands with global ambitions and extensive networks. As the Official Global Hotels Partner, Ascott will collaborate with Chelsea on a series of innovative marketing and promotional initiatives to engage with millions of football enthusiasts across Europe and beyond. Leveraging the club’s massive global fanbase of over 600 million[2] people worldwide and its premier position in European football, the partnership will provide unparalleled opportunities for Ascott to bring together the worlds of hospitality and football to curate memorable fan engagement activities, exclusive offers for Chelsea supporters, and bespoke stay experiences at Ascott properties for fans and guests alike.”
“With loyalty as a key driver of growth, we recognise the importance of providing unique and impactful experiences for loyal members of Ascott Star Rewards. Offering exclusive opportunities to attend coveted events like Premier League football matches, major tennis tournaments, and other high-profile activities not only enhances travel experiences but also deepens guests’ connection with our brands. In line with the brand promise of ASR to ‘Stay Rewarded’, these extraordinary experiences represent Ascott’s commitment to foster a sense of belonging and appreciation that is inherently rewarding for our guests,” added Ms Tan. Building Loyalty for Growth
Tapping on the growing priority that travellers place on exclusive experiences, Ascott organised the first of its series of global events as part of the Ascott Privilege Signatures programme. Held in London, over 80 guests from across its platinum tier of ASR members and esteemed owners were treated to a stay at The Cavendish London and an experience at The Championships, Wimbledon 2024, where they enjoyed debenture/court access to view the Men’s and Women’s third round of finals on 6 July. More events are in the pipeline to delight ASR members and ramp up ASR memberships.
Please refer to Annex A for more information on exclusive Chelsea experiences for ASR members, and Annex B for Ascott’s new signings, property openings and asset enhancement initiatives in Europe.
[1] Source: GlobalWebIndex (Q2 2023 – Q1 2024).
[2] Source: Premier League & Nielsen (2024).
ANNEX A – EXCLUSIVE CHELSEA FOOTBALL CLUB EXPERIENCES FOR ASCOTT STAR REWARDS MEMBERS
Exclusively for Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members, fans of Chelsea Football Club (Chelsea) can look forward to Score Big with stay experiences complemented with guided stadium tours and commemorative co-branded merchandise available in limited quantities. With a touch of Match Day Magic, matchday access will also come with ease for privileged ASR members with limited sets of guaranteed tickets to designated home matches alongside pre-game refreshments.
Elevating guest rewards through “money can’t buy” experiences, ASR members will further gain unparalleled access to VIP meet and greet sessions with the men’s and women’s football teams, pitch-side access prior to home matches, intimate tours to Chelsea’s private training grounds, as well as signed memorabilia. Through these privileges, Ascott seeks to ensure that every stay serves as a gateway for guests to ‘Stay Rewarded’.
Stand a Chance to Win Tickets to Chelsea’s First Game of the 2024/2025 Premier League Season
From 12 to 31 July 2024, fans who sign up as an ASR member with the referral code GoalChelsea will be entered into a draw for a chance to score a pair of tickets to Chelsea’s first game of the 2024/25 Premier League Season on home ground at Stamford Bridge on 18 August 2024. The lucky winner will be announced on 1 August 2024.
ANNEX B – ASCOTT’S NEW SIGNINGS, PROPERTY OPENINGS AND ASSET ENHANCEMENT INITIATIVES IN EUROPE
New Signings
2024 year to date, Ascott has inked six new property signings totalling about 1,000 units in Europe, with one property each in Colmar in France, as well as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leicester, London and Manchester in the United Kingdom. These bring Ascott’s portfolio in Europe to over 60 properties, including both operating and in the pipeline.
The signings in Edinburgh and Leicester will mark the Europe debut of The Unlimited Collection brand by Ascott, a selection of independent upscale hotels with exquisite designs in vibrant neighbourhoods that cater to travellers’ demand for authenticity and immersive local cultural experiences. Originating from Singapore, The Unlimited Collection is a soft brand that enables Ascott to partner with independent owners who would like to preserve the unique identities of their properties while leveraging Ascott’s expertise in hospitality management, supported by its global distribution system and loyalty network.
Meanwhile, Colmar will welcome Citadines while three new properties – one each in Glasgow, London and Manchester – will signal the expansion of the lyf brand in Europe.
Most recently, the lyf brand planted its first flag in Germany with the opening of lyf East Frankfurt in early July, while lyf Gambetta Paris will open as the first lyf branded property in France later this year. Ascott’s newly signed The Unlimited Collection branded property in Edinburgh will also open before end of the year.
Asset Enhancement Initiatives (AEIs)
In addition, Ascott is leveraging AEIs to ensure that its existing properties continue to deliver operational excellence for both owners and guests.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Ascott Limited
Since pioneering Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced residence with the opening of The Ascott Singapore in 1984, Ascott has grown to be a trusted hospitality company with over 950 properties globally. Headquartered in Singapore, Ascott’s presence extends across more than 220 cities in over 40 countries in Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA.
Ascott’s diversified accommodation offerings span serviced residences, coliving properties, hotels and independent senior living apartments, as well as student accommodation and rental housing. Its award-winning hospitality brands include Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello. Through Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott’s loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and offers at participating properties.
A wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott is a leading vertically-integrated lodging operator. Harnessing its extensive network of third-party owners and in-market expertise, Ascott grows fee-related earnings through its hospitality management and investment management capabilities. Ascott also expands its funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.
This year, Ascott marks 40 years in hospitality service with the launch of Ascott Unlimited, a full year campaign that will offer Unlimited Opportunities, Unlimited Choices, Unlimited Freedom, and Unlimited Good. Navigating a future of unlimited possibilities against a backdrop of global change and evolving perspectives of travel, Ascott Unlimited marks Ascott’s ambitions to break new ground, and springboard to its next chapter of growth as a global hospitality company. Find out more about Ascott Unlimited at www.discoverasr.com/ascottunlimited.
About CapitaLand Investment Limited (www.capitalandinvest.com)
Headquartered and listed in Singapore, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 March 2024, CLI had S$134 billion of assets under management as well as S$100 billion of funds under management (FUM) held via six listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts, and more than 30 private vehicles across Asia Pacific, Europe and USA. Its diversified real estate asset classes cover retail, office, lodging, business parks, industrial, logistics, self-storage and data centres.
CLI aims to scale its FUM and fee-related earnings through fund management, lodging management and commercial management, and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand’s development arm.
As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.
About Chelsea Football Club
Chelsea Football Club is one of the top football clubs globally and its men’s team were the FIFA Club World Cup winners for 2021, with the final when the side beat Brazilian side Palmeiras in Abu Dhabi held in 2022 due to the pandemic. That success followed winning the UEFA Champions League for a second time in 2021 with victory over Manchester City in Porto.
Founded in 1905, Chelsea is London’s most central football club, based at the iconic 40,000-capacity Stamford Bridge stadium. Nicknamed ‘The Blues’, the club lifted the Champions League for the first time in 2012 and has also won the Premier League five times, the FA Cup eight times, the Football League Cup five times, the UEFA Europa League twice, the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup twice, the UEFA Super Cup twice and the Football League Championship once, in 1955.
The 2021 Champions League and Super Cup triumphs ensured Chelsea became the first club to win four major UEFA club competitions twice, following its earlier successes in those two competitions as well as the Europa League and Cup Winners’ Cup.
The Chelsea Women’s team have enjoyed a huge amount of success and in 2024 won the FA Women’s Super League for a fifth consecutive year and the seventh time overall. The Women’s FA Cup has been won on five occasions. The side has also captured the FA Women’s League Cup twice as well as reaching the UEFA Women’s Champions League final in 2021.
In addition to possessing some of the world’s most recognisable players, Chelsea has also invested in its future with a state-of-the-art Academy and training centre in Cobham, Surrey. Since the Academy building’s opening in 2008, the club has won seven FA Youth Cups, back-to-back UEFA Youth League titles in 2015 and 2016, and the U23 and U18 Premier League national championships most recently in 2019/20 and 2017/18 respectively.
The Chelsea Foundation boasts one of the most extensive community initiatives in sport, helping to improve the lives of children and young people all over the world.
Important Notice
This announcement and the information contained herein does not constitute and is not intended to constitute an offering of any investment product to, or solicitation of, investors in any jurisdiction where such offering or solicitation would not be permitted.
NAPOLEONVILLE, LOUISIANA – Newsfile Corp. – 8 July 2024 – Impact Fusion International Inc. (OTC Pink: IFUS)
On May 28, 2024 bipartisan legislation passed both the Louisiana House with 99 Yeas and 0 Nays and the Louisiana Senate 31 Yeas and 0 Nays. LA HCR-42 (2024) places focus of bagasse utilization and was generated by testimony provided by Dr. Clyde (Pat) Bagley and Agricultural Commissioner, The Honorable Dr. Michael Strain.
IFUS met with Dr. Strain in September 2023 in his office in Baton Rouge, LA, whereby he provided us with valuable guidance as to the steps the Company should take in the validation of SGP+™ as a supplement, partial feed, and possibly hay replacement for beef and dairy cattle. These scientific steps are considered to be “Best Practices and Methods” in the beef and dairy industries.
Following Dr. Strain’s advice and working with the American Sugarcane League, local U.S.D.A. representatives, and the Farm Bureau Federation, IFUS contacted Dr. Clyde “Pat” Bagley, formerly Dean of Tennessee Tech School of Agriculture (now Director, SUAREC Beef Research Unit).
IFUS formed a partnership with the Southern University Agricultural and Research Center (SUAREC) also located in Baton Rouge, LA. Team members from SUAREC have made several visits to the IFUS Napoleonville, LA operations where they were awestruck by the immediate exothermic to endothermic transition of bagasse into SGP+™. As a result of this discovery, Dr. Bagley, the leader of the SUAREC Team, stated that if IFUS had discovered how to naturally breakdown lignin, this would be in fact the “Holy Grail” of energy and nutrition for beef and dairy cattle. Dr. Bagley further stated, “Lignin was thought to be indigestible. What we think is happening here is their special blend is making the lignin pull apart and become digestible, which we have never seen happen before.” In addition, Dr. Bagley is investigating as to whether SGP+™ is actually a hay replacement.
Furthermore, Dr. Mallory Tate, DVM and Director of Pre-Veterinary Studies at SUAREC, believes combining Chios Mastic Oil emulsified in native ionic minerals (much like Lochte’s Saline) could significantly improve bovine ration digestibility and absorbability.
Since then, a “Best Practices and Methods” statistically viable study after a visit to our facility on June 13, 2024, has been launched by Dr. Bagley and select members of his team with results pending. Dr. Bagley, visited an IFUS test ranching operation where he noted a significant improvement in herd score as well as an absence of flies. Additionally, cattle testing trials continue in any number of locations across the U.S. On June 13, 2024 we delivered approximately 5,000 pounds of SGP+ to the SUAREC testing ranch in Baton Rouge, LA.
Lastly, other Green-to-Gold studies for added utilization of SGP+™ are in discussion to include soil amendment and mulch, application in viticulture, natural insecticide or insect repellent, fly management on cattle, greenhouse gas reduction, and manure management.
Marc Walther, CEO of IFUS, said, “We greatly appreciate the efforts of Dr. Strain, the Louisiana Legislature, the entire SURAEC Team lead by Dr. Bagley, and all the IFUS team and customers who strive to advance the validation and commercialization of SGP+™ and other commercial uses for bagasse. The impact of bagasse utilization in transforming a waste product into useful cash products while reducing Carbon-Footprint is both promising and exciting for The State of Louisiana, The United States, and the world at large.”
Our 1-800-775-4130 is always open for questions and you may also reach us at: impactfusionintl@gmail.com.
Back to Work!
Marc Walther
About Impact Fusion International Inc.
Impact Fusion International, Inc. is in the business of marketing products in the “Health and Wellness” sector of all international markets. It is the company’s mission to invent, develop and market these proprietary products worldwide for the health and wellbeing of humans and animals.
The information contained in this release includes some statement that are not purely historical and that are “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our and their management’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including our financial condition, results of operations. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipates,” “believes,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plans,” “possible,” “potential,” “predicts,” “projects,” “seeks,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions, or the negatives of such terms, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are based on current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and the potential effects on the parties and the corporate and administrative transactions. Forward-Looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and represent our management’s beliefs and assumptions only as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.
BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2024 – The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, a mega cross-sea passage in south China that consists of one underwater tunnel, two bridges, and two artificial islands, opened to traffic on Sunday.
A view of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, a mega cross-sea passage in the Great Bay Area, June 27, 2024.
Seven years on, Chinese designers and constructors have overcome some of the world’s most pressing technical challenges, transforming the passage from a blueprint to a reality and setting 10 world records.
On Wednesday, China News Network interviewed some and discovered the stories behind the one of the most challenging cross-sea cluster projects in the world.
No room for error
This 24-kilometer passage, connecting Shenzhen in the east of the Pearl River estuary with Zhongshan in the west, has significantly slashed travel time between the two cities from about two hours to under 30 minutes.
It is equipped with numerous devices to ensure its safe and stable operation.
The construction personnel need to build a suspension bridge with a tower height of 270 meters and a main span of 1,666 meters approximately 15 kilometers off the coast. They also need to achieve millimeter-level precision in docking 23 immersed tubes, each weighing about 80,000 metric tons, on the seabed nearly 40 meters deep in the Lingdingyang sea. Additionally, within less than six months, they must create an island in the sea with an area equivalent to 19 international standard football fields.
Despite enormous challenges during the construction, these projects were all completed within the scheduled time.
Chen Weibin, General Manager of Technology Center and Project Manager of Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link Contract 9 for Precasting of Immersed Tunnel of CCCC Fourth Harbor Engineering Co., Ltd., introduced that “the construction process of the passage that adopted steel-shell immersed tube structures is irreversible and there was no room for error”.
Without any lesson to learn from, the project team adopted 3D printing technology to develop a customized intelligent pouring system, saving 2,500 hours of machinery time.
Independently-developed key technologies
In the construction, breakthroughs in domesticating key technologies have also been achieved.
Suo Xuhong, Director of the Measurement Management Center of CCCC – First Harbor Engineering Company’s Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link Project Management Department, introduced that over the past seven years, his team has generated over 170 patents, achieving eight major technological innovations and accomplishments, including rapid island formation and underwater push-type final joints.
For example, he elaborated that “facing complex geological and hydrological conditions, we independently developed the ‘underwater 3D printer’ — a gravel leveling ship. We have achieved full localization of both hardware and software, with leveling precision and efficiency meeting the requirements for various specifications of immersed tube tunnel bed construction. Additionally, we integrated the BeiDou system into immersed tube construction for the first time in the world, and developed an integral prefabricated underwater push-type final joint.”
Marine ecological environment outweighs cost
The construction of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link also attaches great importance to protecting the marine ecological environment. Ma Dingqiang, deputy general manager of the Dredging Branch Company under CCCC-Guangzhou DREDGING CO., LTD,and project manager of the dredging works for the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link Project (section 09), said that during the trench excavation process, a large amount of decomposed rocks were found to have distributed on the seabed.
Ma explained that according to traditional dredging methods, the most efficient, economical, and conventional approach would be blasting. However, the construction site is located in the Pearl River Estuary, which is on the migration route and an important habitat for the Chinese white dolphin.
After evaluation, a precise mechanical rock-breaking technique for deep water and deep trenches was developed. “This advancement came at a financial cost of about 30 million yuan ($4.13 million) and a time investment of more than one year. However, the impact on the habitat of the Chinese white dolphin was minimized,” Ma stated.
About 24 hours after the link opened to traffic, the volume on the mega cross-sea passage had reached 125,000 vehicles, according to the Guangdong Transportation Group.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2024 – Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has topped the “World’s Most Sustainable Companies for 2024” list by Time magazine and Statista. This recognition reflects Schneider Electric’s ambitious goals to reduce its own emissions, but also the company’s commitment to helping its customers to become more energy efficient and reduce their emissions.
Time and Statista used a transparent, multi-stage methodology to identify the world’s most sustainable companies for 2024. The process began with a pool of over 5,000 of the world’s largest and most influential companies. Following a rigorous four-stage assessment, the final ranking excluded unsustainable industries and considered factors like external sustainability ratings and commitments, corporate reporting practices, and environmental and social performance indicators. This comprehensive approach produced a ranking of 500 companies from over 30 countries.
Both Time and Statista highlighted Schneider Electric’s technological expertise and the Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) program. This transformative program drives and measures the company’s progress toward global sustainability 2021–2025 targets contributing to six long-term commitments that cover all environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions. Among this progress, the company helped customers reduce their carbon emissions, with 553 million tonnes of CO2 saved and avoided since 2018. The company has also made significant progress in transforming its own supply chain. Carbon emissions from Schneider Electric’s top 1,000 suppliers fell by 27% since the beginning of the program — and 21% of the company’s most strategic supply chain partners have met Schneider Electric’s decent work standards.
“We’re incredibly honored to be recognized as the world’s most sustainable company”, said Peter Herweck, CEO of Schneider Electric. “This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability, which is embedded in everything we do. We consider the environment, society, and good governance in all our decisions and daily operations. That’s why we’re pushing hard to make even more progress on our sustainability goals and ensure everyone contributes to creating a positive and enduring impact”.
Schneider Electric was also recently included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for the 13th consecutive year, ranked #1 in its industry and secured its place in the Europe index. This achievement reflects its strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, with sustainability at the core of its strategy.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Schneider Electric
Schneider’s purpose is to create Impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On.
Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency.
We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation, and digitization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI-enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.
We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all.