• VYTAL Global acquires certain assets and team members from TURN to drive tech-enabled reuse solutions
• VYTAL Global expands to the U.S. with the launch of VYTAL US Inc. Germany-based digital reuse platform that continues global growth by acquiring certain key assets and team members from TURN, the leading U.S.-based reuse company, providing tech-enabled reuse solutions to events and venue customers.

COLOGNE, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 5 December 2024 – VYTAL Global GmbH, the Germany-based digital reuse platform, is thrilled to announce the founding of its U.S.-based subsidiary, VYTAL US Inc. This strategic expansion marks a major step forward in Vytal’s mission to create a global tech platform that enables reuse in all food service settings, from large-scale festivals, sports and entertainment venues to campuses, corporate offices and quick-service restaurants.

VYTAL US has acquired certain assets of TURN, a U.S.-based reuse company, and is assuming services for a selected group of TURN’s former clients, primarily operators of large festivals and venues, including some of TURN’s operations in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, key members of the TURN team will join VYTAL US, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity of service for those clients. This move allows Vytal to enhance its existing expertise with TURN’s proven consumer engagement strategies while bringing its advanced tracking technology and market-leading operational efficiency to the U.S. market.

A Strategic Leap Forward

“From the start, Vytal’s ambition is to solve the single-use packaging waste crisis on a global scale,” says Dr. Tim Breker, Co-Founder & Managing Director of VYTAL Global GmbH. “Europe, particularly Germany, has long been a leader in reuse. We believe we have a clear competitive advantage to build the most advanced reuse solutions for our clients. By expanding into the U.S., we’re leveraging our sophisticated tech platform, as well as years of operational experience, to deliver high-value reuse solutions. Scaling reuse in Europe is mostly about efficiency and convenience. In the U.S. reuse has a major third growth driver: consumer engagement. Mastering this triad in the most exciting consumer market of the world will further cement Vytal’s leadership of the global reuse movement.”

A globally relevant reuse champion

Following a record-breaking 2024 serving over 160 events and over 7,000 clients across 17 countries – including high-profile clients like key sites during the Olympics 2024 and several EURO 2024 fan zones across three major cities – VYTAL is well-positioned to replicate this success in the U.S.

Leveraging Innovative Technology to Scale Reuse

At the heart of Vytal’s success is its cutting-edge technology, which covers the full value chain from logistics and tracking to POS integration and consumer engagement. These innovations make reuse easier, more efficient, and economically beneficial for operators, consumers and brands. The acquired expertise in digital consumer rewards and engagement complements Vytal’s existing technology platform, creating an even stronger value proposition for operators looking to incentivize reuse and enhance customer satisfaction. Vytal’s ability to deliver these innovations at scale promises to unlock immense potential in the U.S. market.

Setting a New Standard in Washing Systems

Understanding the importance of modern, efficient washing infrastructure, Vytal is investing in a washing facility in Atlanta, Georgia that aims to be the most advanced washing system in the U.S. This state-of-the-art facility will not only optimize the cleaning and handling of reusable packaging but also set a new industry benchmark for operational efficiency, hygiene, and sustainability.

Welcoming New Talent Across the Atlantic

Vytal is especially excited to welcome some experienced members of the former TURN team. Their deep knowledge of the U.S. market and expertise in tech-enabled reuse will be invaluable in delivering outstanding service to existing and future customers of VYTAL US, significantly growing the U.S. reuse business.

Accelerating growth in 2025

With access to new markets, pioneering technologies, and top talent, Vytal is ready to lead the worldwide reuse movement into 2025. Through its data-driven approach, Vytal maximizes economic benefits for all stakeholders, creating a world where reuse becomes the new normal.
Hashtag: #VYTALGlobal #VYTALUSInc

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

About VYTAL Global GmbH

VYTAL Global is revolutionizing the packaging industry by eliminating single-use packaging through advanced reusable solutions. Utilizing cutting-edge software and data analytics, VYTAL delivers cost-effective, sustainable packaging options that benefit businesses and the environment. Internationally recognized by the Harvard Business Review for its pioneering data model, Vytal is at the forefront of the global transition to a circular economy. With a network of over 7,000 partners across 22 countries, the company is leading the charge in reducing disposable packaging waste.

Vytal established a dedicated subsidiary to expand its impact to bring reusable solutions to the events and entertainment industry. This initiative reflects Vytal’s commitment to sustainability by addressing the unique demands of large-scale events and venues.

United under a shared vision, VYTAL Global is transforming packaging systems worldwide, offering innovative, eco-friendly alternatives to create a more sustainable future.

About VYTAL US Inc.

VYTAL US Inc., the wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of VYTAL Global, delivers advanced reuse solutions for large-scale events, sports venues, corporate campuses, and quick-service restaurants in the U.S. As of Q2 2025, VYTAL US will operate the country’s most advanced washing facility in Atlanta, Georgia, ensuring top-tier hygiene, efficiency, and sustainability. By partnering with the most progressive companies from the Food & Beverage Industry, VYTAL US aims to make reuse the new normal for campuses and venues in the U.S., creating solutions that benefit businesses, consumers, and the environment.

• Marking a year of connecting semi-skilled job seekers and businesses, the platform has become an essential hiring partner in Singapore’s high-demand industries.
• Aligned with MOM’s emphasis on labour market resilience, Jobstreet Express supports businesses in overcoming barriers like unattractive pay and demanding work conditions, directly tackling hard-to-fill jobs in Singapore.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2024 – Jobstreet Express, part of Jobstreet by SEEK, marks its first anniversary as a trusted partner for job seekers and employers. While Jobstreet by SEEK in Singapore, empowers the career journeys of countless Singaporeans by being a trusted partner rooted in insights, powered by innovative technology and driven by passionate experts, Jobstreet Express focuses on semi-skilled roles, catering to students, active workers and seniors. Over the past year, the platform has made significant strides in addressing hiring challenges for non-executive roles, streamlining the recruitment process with verified job ads and verified candidates, and empowering businesses to meet workforce demands efficiently.

In 2024, the hiring market for semi-skilled roles faced persistent challenges. According to the statistics from the Ministry of Manpower, roles such as waiters, cleaners, and customer service often remain unfilled for over six months. Key barriers included physically demanding conditions, unattractive pay, unfavourable work schedules, and unappealing work environments. These trends emphasise the growing difficulties for semi-skilled jobseekers balancing rising personal expenses and employment hurdles. Jobstreet Express have stepped in to address these gaps by matching candidates with suitable opportunities based on their interests, experience, and job requirements, while enabling businesses to recruit swiftly to meet urgent demands.

Between Q1 and Q3 of 2024, the platform experienced more than tripled growth in retail industry job postings, reflecting the fast turnover and high demand for semi-skilled roles. This growth aligns with broader market trends, such as increased hiring activity in response to labor shortages and shifting consumer behaviors. While new client acquisitions contributed to this increase, the growth also underscores the platform’s role in meeting the industry’s urgent workforce needs. The surge in activity points to Jobstreet Express becoming a trusted go-to solution for businesses struggling to fill positions critical to their operations.

In addition, Jobstreet Express highlights the top 5 most applied-for roles and the top 5 most in-demand positions on its platform.

	Top 5 Most Applied-For Roles	Top 5 Most In-Demand Positions
1	Admin Clerk	Admin Clerk
2	Warehouse Assistant	Sales Promoter
3	Sales Promoter	General Worker
4	Service Crew	Technician
5	Facilities Maintenance Technician	Service Crew

*Data is based on Jobstreet Express’s platform

“As the backbone of many industries, semi-skilled roles are pivotal to Singapore’s economy, yet they remain one of the most underserved segments in hiring,” said Juairi Jaafar, General Manager, Jobstreet Express Singapore. “In our first year, we’ve connected businesses and job seekers with unmatched efficiency, and we remain dedicated to supporting these vital industries with innovative solutions.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Jobstreet Express foresees significant transformations in the labour market driven by several key factors. Advancements in technology will continue to reshape skill requirements, making digital literacy and adaptability critical for job seekers across industries. As businesses adapt to an ever-changing economic landscape, agility in hiring and workforce planning will become essential to staying competitive. Furthermore, ongoing government initiatives to support lower-wage workers will likely create more opportunities for upskilling and career advancement, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient workforce.

“At Jobstreet Express, we are committed to being at the forefront of these changes, equipping employers and job seekers with unique tools and actionable insights needed to navigate this evolving market successfully. With a commitment to innovation, Jobstreet Express is positioned as a leader in talent solutions for semi-skilled roles. As it celebrates its first-year milestone, the platform remains focused on transforming the hiring experience and supporting Singapore’s workforce in navigating a dynamic job market for 2025 and beyond,” Juairi Jaafar said.

In its first year, Jobstreet Express has emerged as a transformative platform for semi-skilled hiring in Singapore, addressing workforce challenges with innovation and efficiency. Its mobile-first approach, featuring advanced tools like video screening, empowers recruiters to quickly identify and evaluate verified candidates, saving time while gaining valuable insights into their skills and motivations. To learn more, visit https://sg.jobstreetexpress.com or download the app on Google Play Store or the App Store.

Hashtag: #jobstreet

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

About Jobstreet Express

Jobstreet Express is an online employment platform designed to simplify the job-matching process for semi-skilled segments. As part of Jobstreet by SEEK, the leading online employment marketplace in Singapore, Jobstreet Express enables candidates to instantly apply for part-time, temporary and full-time positions in sectors like hospitality, retail, customer service and logistics, with quick responses from employers. To learn more, visit https://sg.jobstreetexpress.com or download the app on Google Play Store or the App Store.

About SEEK

SEEK operates market-leading online employment marketplaces, including Jobstreet and Jobsdb. SEEK’s purpose is to help people live more fulfilling and productive working lives and help organisations succeed. Listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: SEK), SEEK has a multinational presence that is focused on Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2024 – Hong Kong’s economic outlook and business confidence are set to further improve in 2025, CPA Australia’s latest survey shows. With more than half of respondents predicting their company’s revenue will grow in 2025, companies are becoming more aggressive in their expansion plans and hiring intentions are the highest since 2020.

Surveyed executives and accounting professionals show a relatively optimistic outlook for Hong Kong’s economy, with 63 per cent anticipating the local economy will grow next year. Hong Kong’s tax system (31 per cent) ranks as the largest positive contributor to the city’s economic and business environment in 2025, while changes in consumer patterns (26 per cent) and tension in US-China relations (26 per cent) are seen to be the two biggest challenges. 56 per cent of respondents rated Hong Kong’s international competitiveness as high.

Mr. Cliff Ip, CPA Australia 2024 Divisional President of Greater China, said, “The survey findings reflect that Hong Kong’s economy and business confidence are expected to steadily improve in the coming year. Recent stimulus measures unveiled by the central government and the Hong Kong government have contributed to this improved sentiment. The start of the rate-cutting cycle has also boosted business confidence. These positive factors should keep this momentum going into 2025 and strengthen Hong Kong’s international competitiveness.

“However, external uncertainties still weigh on some sectors such as tourism and retail. Respondents indicate that changing customer behaviour and weak customer demand are some of the key challenges they expect to face in 2025. In response, companies must keep innovating their products and services, and how they deliver them. They also need to frequently engage with customers and potential customers to better understand trends both in Hong Kong and elsewhere.”

The outlook for initial public offerings (IPOs) in the city is also optimistic. Some 63 per cent of respondents expect the value of funds raised in Hong Kong through IPOs to increase in 2025. “IPO activity in Hong Kong has shown signs of recovery since Q3 due to some mega-sized IPOs. Policies and regulatory reforms are stimulating capital activities and boosting investor confidence,” Ip explained.

The improving economic sentiment is flowing through to revenue projections and business expansion plans in 2025. 51 per cent of respondents predict their company’s revenue will grow next year, with an increase in revenue of between 5 to 20 per cent being the most popular prediction.

In response to this improving business environment, respondents are most likely to forecast that their company will increase their investment in advanced technologies (38 per cent), sales and marketing (37 per cent) and expansion outside of Hong Kong (36 per cent). A notably high proportion of respondents to this survey stated that their company has expansions plan in the next three years at home or abroad, with mainland China (40 per cent) again nominated as the most popular destination.

Though cost management remains the top strategic focus for many companies, the percentage choosing it has dropped from 39 per cent in 2024 to 27 per cent in 2025. While slightly more are expected to focus on market expansion activities (27 per cent) and innovation and digitalisation (26 per cent).

Ip stated, “The more positive business environment is being reflected in an expected shift in corporate strategy away from defensive strategies such as cost management and improving business efficiency towards more expansionary strategies such as market expansion and innovation.”

To support growing revenue and expansion plans, companies are keen to add more employees and increase salary to retain talent. 57 of per cent respondents expect that their companies to increase headcount, the highest new hiring intention since 2020. These new hiring intentions are strongest amongst larger companies. Salaries are expected to grow, with 62 per cent expecting to receive a salary increase in 2025.

While the economy looks to be on a positive trajectory, predictions for price changes in the property market in 2025 are uncertain, with similar numbers of respondents expecting prices to increase and decrease, however more respondents expect prices to increase than the previous two years.

Ip explained, “The city’s property market is recovering, with demand gradually growing. This is due to recent interest rate cuts and changes in government policies such as the relaxation of restrictive measures in the housing market. However, with sectors such as SMEs undergoing a relatively slower recovery due to the weak domestic demand, this is leading to stagnation in the rental market.”

The survey data shows nearly all Hong Kong companies have introduced at least some ESG measures into their operations, with only three per cent stating they have not taken any ESG actions. Another 35 per cent expect their company to increase their ESG-related initiatives and activities next year. Respondents were most likely to nominate compliance and increasing compliance costs as the biggest impact ESG is having on their business.

CPA Australia collected 568 responses from Hong Kong-based executives, accounting and finance professionals working in various industries in October and November for this Hong Kong Economic and Business Sentiment Survey 2025.
Hashtag: #CPAAustraliaHongKong #2025HongKongBusinessOutlook #Forecast #Advocacy #ThoughtLeadership #Accounting

https://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/
https://www.linkedin.com/school/cpaaustralia/

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

CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 173,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 22,500 members in Greater China. CPA Australia has been operating in Hong Kong since 1955 and opened our Hong Kong office in 1989. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on issues affecting the accounting profession and the public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at cpaaustralia.com.au

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2024 –

Register for FREE Buyer Badge: https://tinyurl.com/3wpf8hr2

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 51^st Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 16^th Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 23^rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair (jointly organised with Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd) will be held from 6–9 January 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The three concurrent fairs – themed New Play for All – are expected to welcome more than 2,500 global exhibitors, showcasing a diverse selection of smart toys, quality baby products and innovative stationery for all ages. In 2024, the fairs attracted some 83,000 buyers from 135 countries and regions.

Wide range of exhibits at Asia’s flagship toys fair

In the coming edition, Mainland China, Taiwan, Korea, and ‘World of Toys’ pavilion which features mainly European exhibits, will once again set up pavilions, showcasing the latest toys and games from around the world. To promote Hong Kong’s creative industries and branded toys to the world, Hong Kong Brand Toy Association (HKBTA) pavilion will return at the toys fair. Furthermore, ESG pavilion which aims to enhance Hong Kong toy industry players’ awareness and knowledge of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) will be launched for the first time at the toys fair.

A fair highlight, the Brand Name Gallery will feature innovative products by about 340 renowned brands, including AURORA, Eastcolight, Hape, Masterkkidz, Rastar, Welly and more. Other highlights include the Smart-Tech Toys and Games zone, which showcases a wide array of tech-based toys and games including those operated via mobile apps, or incorporated with the latest VR, AR and MR technologies. Kidult World is the place to find items that target those young at heart such as hobby goods, performance magic items, models, figurines and more. Green Toys zone showcases high-quality toys that are made from eco-friendly and recycled materials.

Asian Toys & Games Forum unveils market trends

A highlight event – Asian Toys & Games Forum will feature speaker from reputable international market research provider, who will share valuable insights on global toy industry outlook, opportunities and product trends. Distinguish experts will discuss the industry’s evolving role in healthcare and wellness, its positive social impact on social connectedness, and active ageing, under the theme of “Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry”. To keep traders abreast of the latest industry development and visionary trends, a series of events will be held covering topics such as toy safety and regulations, sustainability, and gender perspectives and inclusivity in toys.

Concurrent Baby Products Fair and International Stationery & School Supplies Fair

The 16^th Hong Kong Baby Products Fair will welcome Korea, Selection of Europe, and the Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association pavilions. The fair will present a wide range of baby products, including strollers and baby gear, bedding and furniture, skincare and bath products, baby clothing and footwear and maternity products to buyers. The Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, will assemble the latest stationery products comprising school supplies, creative arts, office supplies, paper & printing products, writing instruments and gifts stationery. The three fairs provide abundant trading opportunities and good potential for crossover business activities among the participants from various sectors.

Under the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, exhibitors and buyers can meet online through the Click2Match business matching platform in addition to attending the physical fair until 16 January 2025. Buyers can also use the Scan2Match feature of the HKTDC Marketplace App to scan the QR codes of exhibitors and view product materials, bookmark favourites, browse product information and floor plans, as well as engage with exhibitors before and after the fairs to continue their sourcing journey.Hashtag: #HKTDC

https://www.hktdc.com/event/hktoyfair/en
https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkbabyfair/en
https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkstationeryfair/en

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

This partnership will see JJ-LAPP distribute Deye’s solar energy products and solutions in Malaysia

SINGAPORE/KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2024 – JJ-LAPP, the cable technology joint venture of diversified industrial conglomerate Jebsen & Jessen Group and LAPP Holding Asia, announced its partnership with Deye, a leading player in the global solar inverter market, in Malaysia. Through this strategic partnership, JJ-LAPP will handle the sales, distribution, and service support of Deye’s complete range of solar energy products and solutions, marking the first time Deye’s advanced solar energy technology will be introduced to the Malaysian market.

Under the Malaysia Renewable Energy Roadmap (MyRER), commissioned to support the decarbonisation of the electricity sector in Malaysia, the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change (NRECC) has set a target to reach 31% of renewable energy (RE) share by 2025. Malaysia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 2030 target aims to reduce greenhouse gas emission intensity per unit of GDP by 45% in 2030 compared to the 2005 level and a further reduction of 60% in 2035. As Malaysia aims to accelerate the adoption of RE solutions, this partnership is a major step forward in making solar energy products and solutions more accessible to businesses and consumers.

JJ-LAPP will be the technology partner for Deye in Malaysia, handling the sales, distribution and service support of Deye’s solar energy products and solutions, including solar inverters, storage power plants, solar air conditioners and more. At the official MoU signing ceremony and product launch event, Deye also announced the launch of its latest energy solutions, including low-voltage and high-voltage inverters, advanced batteries, and balcony energy storage products for residential and commercial and industrial (C&I) applications, along with the innovative Deye Cloud and smart management system for enhanced system efficiency and performance. Available in Malaysia for the first time, Deye’s solutions will complement JJ-LAPP’s current range of products, including solar panels, floating solar solutions, battery energy storage, EV charging stations and more.

Speaking on the partnership, Marc von Grabowski, Chief Executive Officer of JJ-LAPP, said, “We recognise the immense potential of the renewable energy sector, particularly solar power, and we’re thrilled to be the partner of Deye, one of the leading players in the solar inverter market. With the addition of their innovative solar energy solutions that complement our existing portfolio of renewable energy products, we can offer customers a comprehensive suite of renewable energy solutions and make an impact on accelerating the nation’s renewable energy adoption for a greener, more energy-efficient future.”

“We’re excited to partner with JJ-LAPP as our technology partner in Malaysia. Leveraging JJ-LAPP’s market knowledge and extensive reach, we’re poised to expand the reach of our reliable and efficient solar energy solutions to the Malaysian market. This partnership marks a step forward in achieving our vision of promoting solar energy utilisation worldwide,” added James YUK, Vice President of Deye APAC.
Hashtag: #JJ-LAPP #Solar

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

About JJ-LAPP

JJ-LAPP was founded as a joint venture between Jebsen & Jessen Pte Ltd and LAPP Holding Asia Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of LAPP Group in Germany, to become the leading cable and connectivity solutions provider in ASEAN. We bring value to our customers by localising German innovation, manufacturing our high-quality products in Indonesia, and complementing this with a suite of products sourced from world-renowned brands. This enables us to provide a wide range of solutions that maximises return on investment for our customers.

Located in nine countries across ASEAN, our team is committed to building trust-based partnerships with our customers and helping them achieve the business success they desire. We are proud to have served the Building Automation, Industrial Automation, Renewable Energy, Original Equipment Manufacturer, Transportation, and Automotive sectors with cable and connectivity solutions since 1980.

For more information, visit https://www.jj-lapp.com/

About Deye Group

Founded in 2000, Deye Group is a global leader in providing integrated photovoltaic (PV) power generation and energy storage solutions for residential C&I applications. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Deye excels in R&D, design, production, sales, and service, securing its position as a prominent player in the global solar market.

Deye operates three advanced production bases in Beilun and Cixi, Ningbo, spanning a total area of 388 acres and a plant area of over 400,000 square meters. As a high-tech manufacturer, Deye has expanded its influence worldwide and was successfully listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange in April 2021.

For more information, visit https://www.deyeinverter.com/ ; https://deyeess.com/