Full press release

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hard Rock Cafe and Coca‑Cola today launched Hard Rock Rising. The music competition spans 34 countries and 64 Hard Rock Cafes, giving emerging artists a career‑launching stage.

Rising artists worldwide can enter Hard Rock Rising for a grand prize including a Coke Studio recording session, $10,000, a Hard Rock Orlando performance and more.

For more than five decades, breakthrough artists and legends have taken the stage at Hard Rock Cafes. Coca‑Cola has built a global platform for musicians through Coke Studio L.A. Live. Now, the two brands are joining forces to help singer‑songwriters, bands and DJs launch their careers.

Hard Rock Rising unfolds as a series of performances at participating Cafes. Local fan votes advance artists round by round. The Coke Studio team then selects one grand prize winner who earns a recording session, $10,000, a performance at Hard Rock Orlando and more.

Artist submissions are open now through August 18, with live competition rounds running September 2, 9, 16 and 23. The global winner will be announced October 5.

“Hard Rock Cafes have always connected people through the power of music with local artist residencies, open mic events, Battle of the Bands competitions, and pop culture memorabilia,” said Eric Martino, President of Hard Rock Cafe and Retail at Hard Rock International. “Now, Hard Rock Rising is a natural extension of that mission to empower emerging artists to perform their original music. Together with Coca-Cola, we’re proud to provide a platform where musicians can be seen, heard and celebrated in their communities, and for the winner, around the world.”

Multi‑platinum, GRAMMY‑ and Juno‑nominated executive producer Rob Rettberg leads the Coke Studio team.

“This partnership taps into Hard Rock’s unparalleled reach and iconic stages while leveraging Coke Studio’s production expertise to transform talented musicians into the next generation of recording artists,” said Rettberg.

The competition is amplified by a full Hard Rock Rising lineup, from a limited-time menu with cocktails made with Coca-Cola products to merchandise available at Rock Shops® and shop.hardrock.com.

Extending the competition’s celebration of music and self-expression beyond the stage, Hard Rock is partnering with Cult of Individuality, the streetwear brand renowned for its roots in music culture. Together, the brands will launch a Hard Rock Rising tee and a co-branded apparel collection.

Artists ready to take the stage can apply through August 18. Each application must include two original songs. For submissions, rules, competition details and participating Cafe locations, visit cafe.hardrock.com/hard‑rock‑rising.

ABU DHABI, UAE, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Agthia Group PJSC (AGTHIA: UH), one of the region’s leading food and beverage companies, today reported its first-half and second-quarter of 2026 results, reflecting the growing impact of its multi-year transformation, with stronger cash generation, a materially healthier balance sheet, and a 14.4% increase in the interim dividend.

The Group’s transformation gathered pace in H1 2026, as Agthia advanced its portfolio reset while navigating external challenges and cost pressures. For the first half, Group Revenue increased 7.4% year-on-year to AED 2.6 billion, underpinned by one-off sales under the UAE food security program. EBITDA climbed 35.8% to AED 310.5 million, with EBITDA Margin expanding 250 basis points to 11.9%, while Net Profit reached AED 121.4 million, up 147.4% year-over-year. For the second quarter, Group revenue increased 11.9% year-on-year to AED 1.3 billion. EBITDA increased 172.5% to AED 117.2 million, with margin expanding 542 basis points to 9.2%, while Net Profit reached AED 24.5 million.

Free cash flow turned strongly positive at AED 521.4 million, from an outflow a year earlier, and the Group cut its net debt-to-EBITDA to 1.8x from 2.9x in December 2025. Agthia closed the first half of 2026 with AED 869.6 million in cash. Group Total Assets continue to grow, reaching AED 6.5 billion as of 30 June 2026.

Across the Group, strong growth in core businesses was complemented by continued progress in selected transformation initiatives. Water and Food led the way, with revenue up 38.9% in the second quarter, as Al Ain, Agthia’s first billion-dirham brand, extended its lead in bottled water and gained 2.0 percentage points of value market share versus the same period last year. Protein and Frozen advanced 22.0% in the second quarter, led by Nabil at 32.5% and supported by gradual improvement in Atyab, up 8.1% year-on-year, and the ramp-up of the Group’s Saudi protein facility. Agri-Business rose 11.0% on strong feed demand, with Agrivita feed sales up 23.3%. During the quarter, Snacking remained focused on transforming the Al Foah and BMB businesses, laying the foundation for long-term value, while Abu Auf maintained its strong growth trajectory, with revenue rising 23.7% year-over-year in Q2 2026.

Agthia’s Board of Directors has recommended an interim cash dividend of 11.792 fils per share for the six months ended 30 June 2026, a 14.4% increase year-on-year and a second consecutive period of higher returns following the 10.0% rise recommended for the second half of 2025.

Khalifa Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chairman of Agthia’s Board, commented: “Raising the interim dividend for a second consecutive period speaks to the discipline with which Agthia is being run and to the Board’s belief in its long-term value. Even in a demanding environment, the Group is generating the cash to reward shareholders and fund its own growth.”

Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and CEO of Agthia Group, added: “The transformation we set in motion a year ago is delivering tangible results, with stronger earnings, expanding margins, and improved cash generation strengthening our balance sheet. We maintained uninterrupted supply, supported our customers, and advanced the UAE’s food security agenda when it mattered most. We also accelerated our sustainability agenda, reducing our emissions ratio by 26.7% year-on-year.”

Jeroen Nijs, Chief Financial Officer of Agthia Group, commented: “Agthia’s financial profile strengthened considerably during the first half of 2026. Alongside higher earnings, we generated AED 521 million of free cash flow, while reducing Net Debt-to-EBITDA from 2.9x to 1.8x. With AED 870 million of cash & cash equivalents, Agthia is well positioned to navigate the current regional disruption, execute our strategic transformation programs and enhance shareholder returns.”

ABU DHABI, UAE, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Agthia Group PJSC (AGTHIA: UH), one of the region’s leading food and beverage companies, today reported its first-half and second-quarter of 2026 results, reflecting the growing impact of its multi-year transformation, with stronger cash generation, a materially healthier balance sheet, and a 14.4% increase in the interim dividend.

The Group’s transformation gathered pace in H1 2026, as Agthia advanced its portfolio reset while navigating external challenges and cost pressures. For the first half, Group Revenue increased 7.4% year-on-year to AED 2.6 billion, underpinned by one-off sales under the UAE food security program. EBITDA climbed 35.8% to AED 310.5 million, with EBITDA Margin expanding 250 basis points to 11.9%, while Net Profit reached AED 121.4 million, up 147.4% year-over-year. For the second quarter, Group revenue increased 11.9% year-on-year to AED 1.3 billion. EBITDA increased 172.5% to AED 117.2 million, with margin expanding 542 basis points to 9.2%, while Net Profit reached AED 24.5 million.

Free cash flow turned strongly positive at AED 521.4 million, from an outflow a year earlier, and the Group cut its net debt-to-EBITDA to 1.8x from 2.9x in December 2025. Agthia closed the first half of 2026 with AED 869.6 million in cash. Group Total Assets continue to grow, reaching AED 6.5 billion as of 30 June 2026.

Across the Group, strong growth in core businesses was complemented by continued progress in selected transformation initiatives. Water and Food led the way, with revenue up 38.9% in the second quarter, as Al Ain, Agthia’s first billion-dirham brand, extended its lead in bottled water and gained 2.0 percentage points of value market share versus the same period last year. Protein and Frozen advanced 22.0% in the second quarter, led by Nabil at 32.5% and supported by gradual improvement in Atyab, up 8.1% year-on-year, and the ramp-up of the Group’s Saudi protein facility. Agri-Business rose 11.0% on strong feed demand, with Agrivita feed sales up 23.3%. During the quarter, Snacking remained focused on transforming the Al Foah and BMB businesses, laying the foundation for long-term value, while Abu Auf maintained its strong growth trajectory, with revenue rising 23.7% year-over-year in Q2 2026.

Agthia’s Board of Directors has recommended an interim cash dividend of 11.792 fils per share for the six months ended 30 June 2026, a 14.4% increase year-on-year and a second consecutive period of higher returns following the 10.0% rise recommended for the second half of 2025.

Khalifa Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chairman of Agthia’s Board, commented: “Raising the interim dividend for a second consecutive period speaks to the discipline with which Agthia is being run and to the Board’s belief in its long-term value. Even in a demanding environment, the Group is generating the cash to reward shareholders and fund its own growth.”

Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and CEO of Agthia Group, added: “The transformation we set in motion a year ago is delivering tangible results, with stronger earnings, expanding margins, and improved cash generation strengthening our balance sheet. We maintained uninterrupted supply, supported our customers, and advanced the UAE’s food security agenda when it mattered most. We also accelerated our sustainability agenda, reducing our emissions ratio by 26.7% year-on-year.”

Jeroen Nijs, Chief Financial Officer of Agthia Group, commented: “Agthia’s financial profile strengthened considerably during the first half of 2026. Alongside higher earnings, we generated AED 521 million of free cash flow, while reducing Net Debt-to-EBITDA from 2.9x to 1.8x. With AED 870 million of cash & cash equivalents, Agthia is well positioned to navigate the current regional disruption, execute our strategic transformation programs and enhance shareholder returns.”

Veteran executive to drive international expansion and build on company momentum in the U.S. residential energy storage market

SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — FranklinWH Energy Storage Inc., manufacturer of the FranklinWH System, today announced the appointment of Ke Bi as global chief executive officer.

Bi will lead worldwide operations and strategic growth, scaling the company’s U.S. market position into Europe and other international markets. Since joining the company in 2021, Bi has been instrumental in expanding the company’s growth across the United States and Australia, establishing FranklinWH as a recognized leader in whole-home energy management systems.

With more than 30 years of executive leadership experience spanning energy storage, renewable energy, telecommunications and advanced manufacturing, Bi brings deep expertise in building global technology businesses. Before joining FranklinWH, Bi served as chief executive officer of Boden Inc. and held senior leadership roles at Nokia and other technology companies, where he directed large-scale operations and strategic growth initiatives throughout North America.

“Homeowners trust FranklinWH to keep their homes powered, help manage their energy use and provide reliable backup when they need it most. That’s how we’ve grown across the United States and Australia,” Bi said. “As we expand into Europe, we’ll stay focused on delivering reliable home energy solutions and earning the trust of every homeowner, installer and utility partner we serve.”

“Ke Bi has a clear vision for where FranklinWH is headed because he’s helped shape that vision from the beginning,” said Vincent Ambrose, chief commercial officer of FranklinWH. “He brings together innovation, operational discipline and a genuine commitment to our customers and partners. I’m excited to see him lead FranklinWH as we continue providing energy independence to homeowners around the world.”

FranklinWH participates in more than 28 utility-led virtual power plant (VPP) programs across the United States, including partnerships with Duke Energy, National Grid and Austin Energy. The company was selected as the residential energy storage system provider for municipal programs in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and New Orleans, Louisiana following competitive evaluations. The company’s aPower battery won the Connecticut Green Bank’s Outstanding Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Award in 2024 and 2025. In 2026 FranklinWH introduced an enhanced version of its 15 kWh aPower battery in Australia and New Zealand. FranklinWH manufactures its systems in Santa Clara, California, where it is on pace to quadruple production output in 2026.

About FranklinWH

FranklinWH Energy Storage Inc. is the manufacturer of the FranklinWH System, a next-generation whole-home energy management and storage solution. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, FranklinWH’s team brings decades of expertise across energy system design, manufacturing, sales, and installation. The company is AVL-listed with multiple financial institutions and is dedicated to empowering homeowners to achieve true energy independence. Learn more at FranklinWH.com

Media Contact: Press@franklinwh.com 

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global DIY smart tool brand XtraMaker launched the M1 Series on Kickstarter at 9:00 AM PDT, August 4.

As the World’s First 5-in-1 Smart Desktop DTF Studio, it fully automates all five DTF essential steps, printing, powdering, drying, curing, and purification, the M1 Series integrates the entire workflow into a single, compact unit. Built for Etsy sellers, apparel designers, and small studios, XtraMaker eliminates manual labor and tedious maintenance with professional print quality. With one-touch automation, creators can now deliver premium-quality custom apparel effortlessly.

Exclusive Kickstarter Launch Offers

To reward early backers, XtraMaker is offering limited-time launch perks on Kickstarter:

• Super Early Bird Pricing: Access the lowest prices of the XtraMaker M1 series, featuring limited-quantity discounts:

• • XtraMaker M1: Save 54% on MSRP

• • XtraMaker M1 Pro: Save 50% on MSRP

• • XtraMaker M1 & M1 Pro Bundle: Save 51% on MSRP

• 1-Year Warranty: All Kickstarter backers receive a 1-year warranty, priority shipping, and 1-on-1 technical support.

The Complete Studio Lineup: Printers & Heat Presses

From precision printing to final heat application, choose the ideal hardware setup engineered for any workspace and application:

• XtraMaker M1 (A4 Print Size) | Compact & Versatile

• • Highlights: Ultra-compact footprint designed for home studios and personal makers.

• • Best For: Small transfers, chest logos, hats, canvas bags, and custom t-shirts.

• XtraMaker M1 Pro (A3 Print Size) | Maximum Capacity

• • Highlights: Larger print width engineered for growing apparel brands and print shops.

• • Best For: High-margin large prints, hoodie backs, and jackets.

• Heat Press | Semi-Automatic Flatbed

• • Highlights: Hands-free, semi-automatic operation with auto-countdown and popup for consistent heating without constant monitoring.

• • Best For: T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, and everyday flat garment orders.

• Cap Press | Curved Surface Specialist

• • Highlights: Semi-automatic mechanism with dedicated clamping designed specifically for curved surfaces.

• • Best For: Hats, caps.

• Heat Press Mini | Compact & Handheld

• • Highlights: Lightweight design (0.96 kg) for targeted detail work and hard-to-reach areas.

• • Best For: Sleeves, collars, pockets, and quick touch-ups.

Core Features: Complex Tech Made Simple

1. 5-in-1 Fully Automated Workflow

• Technology: Integrates printing, powdering, shaking, curing, and air purification into one automated process.

• Value: Zero learning curve. Replaces messy manual work with a clean, fully automated setup that prints in minutes.

2. G7-Certified Color & Multi-Resolution Modes

• Technology: G7-certified color system with smooth gradients and crisp details, featuring 3 adjustable resolution modes.

• Value: Premium output, flexible speed. Deliver high-value, color-accurate orders, or switch modes to speed up print runs.

3. All-Fabric & Multi-Material Transfer

• Technology: Transfers effortlessly onto cotton, denim, polyester, leather, blends, and cardboard packaging.

• Value: Beyond fabrics. Say goodbye to material limits and take on a wider range of custom orders.

4. Smart Auto-Maintenance System

• Technology: Zero-ink-waste white ink circulation during daily care. During power outages, the built-in UPS battery provides up to 1 month of backup power to keep white ink stirring and channels filled with moisturizing liquid to prevent clogs.

• Value: No clogs, lower costs. Keeps printheads protected even during extended holidays or power loss—saving time and money.

About XtraMaker

Backed by parent company EAI Tech (YDLIDAR) and a decade of hardware expertise from former Huawei engineers, XtraMaker delivers industrial-grade, affordable desktop DTF printing solutions for modern creators and small businesses.

Start Your Business Today

Leave the complexity to tech, keep the simplicity for creativity. With limited Super Early Bird discounts offering up to 54% off, this is the best time to claim super early bird pricing before limited reward tiers sell out.

Order Now on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1914891948/xtramaker-m1-your-5-in-1-smart-dtf-print-to-profit-partner?ref=9xxxry

ABU DHABI, UAE, Aug. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi today announced the appointment of Dr. Valerie Hillings as the inaugural Director of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Appoints Inaugural Museum Director

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is a cornerstone of Saadiyat Cultural District, one of the world’s greatest concentrations of cultural institutions. Alongside Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, it affirms Abu Dhabi’s cultural vision.

As Director, Dr. Hillings will bring this vision to life leading the museum’s strategic direction, overseeing its inaugural exhibitions and programmes, and establishing an institution that is rooted in Abu Dhabi and connected to the world, one that connects cultures, inspires people and celebrates art from the 1960s to the present.

Dr. Hillings brings deep familiarity with Guggenheim Abu Dhabi to the role. From 2009 to 2018, she served as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation’s Curator and Associate Director of Curatorial Affairs, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project, working closely with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi on the collection strategy and acquisitions, pre-opening programming and the Frank Gehry-designed building. Earlier, she spent five years on the Guggenheim’s curatorial staff in New York.

Since 2018, Dr. Hillings has served as Director of the North Carolina Museum of Art, where she led the reimagination of its permanent collection galleries, added some 400 works to the collection and oversaw a doubling of annual attendance to 1.2 million visitors. She holds a PhD and MA in Art History and Archaeology from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University, and an AB in Art History from Duke University, with a specialisation in modern and contemporary art.

Dr. Valerie Hillings said: “I am honoured to return to Abu Dhabi to complete the once-in-a-lifetime journey of founding and opening Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a museum developed in the United Arab Emirates by colleagues from both the region and around the world. I look forward to welcoming local and global audiences to the magnificent Frank Gehry-designed building and inviting them to explore points of interconnection and unique stories through the lens of art from the 1960s to our time.”

Through Guggenheim Abu Dhabi’s collection, exhibitions, commissions, research and public programmes, the museum will foster dialogue across cultures and generations while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a global centre for artistic innovation, creative production and cultural exchange. Housing 30 galleries across 11,600 square metres of interior exhibition space, alongside 23,000 square metres of outdoor exhibition areas, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will provide one of the world’s most significant platforms for modern and contemporary art upon its opening.

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For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dctabudhabi.ae and visitabudhabi.ae and abudhabiculture.ae