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TAJ IS WORLD’S STRONGEST LUXURY HOTEL BRAND 2026

By
Advertorial Desk
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AS PER BRAND FINANCE UK’S ‘HOTELS 50 2026’ REPORT 

MARKS THE 5THYEAR OF THIS RECOGNITION

MUMBAI, India, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announces that its iconic brand Taj is the World’s Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand by Brand Finance UK, for the 5th time. The ‘Hotels 50 2026’ annual report by the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy recognises the most valuable and strongest hotel brands across the globe.

TAJ IS WORLD'S STRONGEST LUXURY HOTEL BRAND 2026
TAJ IS WORLD’S STRONGEST LUXURY HOTEL BRAND 2026

Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, said, “For over a century, Taj has been the embodiment of Indian hospitality for the world. The dual honour of being India’s Strongest Brand and the World’s Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand, reflects the strength of Taj’s legacy and its continued relevance to travellers across generations and geographies.”

He added, “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our 50,000+ associates, who continue to serve with the values that have shaped our identity.”

As per Brand Finance’s ‘Hotel 50 2026′ report, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5/100 and an AAA+ brand strength rating, TAJ (brand value up 32% to USD878 million) retains its position as the World’s Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand. As luxury travellers increasingly seek authentic and experience-led stays, Taj continues to differentiate itself through its distinctive blend of Indian heritage, personalised hospitality, and timeless luxury.

Mr. David Haigh, Chairman & CEO, Brand Finance, said, “Taj’s continued recognition as the world’s strongest luxury hotel brand is a remarkable achievement. With an exceptional Brand Strength Index score of 93.5, Taj demonstrates how a brand can build global stature while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural identity. Its distinctive blend of Indian heritage, timeless luxury and personalised hospitality continues to create powerful guest affinity and sets an important benchmark for the global luxury hospitality industry.”

The iconic brand Taj has a portfolio of 150 hotels across 14 countries offering a diverse portfolio including grand palaces, city hotels, beach & spa resorts, wildlife safaris and serviced residences.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited

Indian Hotels Company and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service.

IHCL has a portfolio of 660 hotels including 274 in the pipeline globally across 4 continents, 15 countries and over 300 locations. IHCL is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization.

Agoda Reveals Flexible Work Is Reshaping Travel, Fuelling Interest in Extended Overseas Stays Among Thai Travelers

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Thai travelers are increasingly embracing extended overseas stays, according to accommodation search data from digital travel platform Agoda. For stays of 30 nights or longer, Da Nang, Bali, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Seoul ranked among the most-searched overseas destinations.

The findings highlight how flexible working arrangements are reshaping travel habits, giving people greater freedom to choose when and where they work. As a result, travelers are no longer viewing travel as an escape from work, but instead are integrating work into the lifestyles they want, fueling the growth of longer stays and the rise of “bleisure” travel. These destinations are increasingly attracting month-long stays thanks to their combination of affordability, quality infrastructure, and appealing lifestyle offerings. For Thai travelers exploring the possibility of longer stays abroad, affordability, lifestyle, and reliable infrastructure appear to be just as important as traditional sightseeing attractions. Based on Agoda accommodation searches for stays of 30 nights or longer, Da Nang leads travel interest, reflecting its appeal as a destination that combines low living costs, modern amenities, and easy access to both beaches and city life. Bali remains a perennial favourite among digital nomads, thanks to its established co-working ecosystem and wellness-driven lifestyle, while Tokyo continues to attract strong interest for its world-class infrastructure and seamless connectivity. Kuala Lumpur is also gaining momentum, offering value for money alongside modern urban conveniences. Ho Chi Minh City and Seoul complete the top six, highlighting growing interest in destinations that balance affordability, culture, and quality of life.

The trend is equally evident in searches for long stays in Thailand. Accommodation search data for stays of 30 nights or more shows coastal and island destinations amongst the most popular rankings, reflecting strong interest in places that offer a better work-life balance alongside natural surroundings. Pattaya ranks first, with its combination of beachfront living, urban conveniences, and proximity to Bangkok making it an appealing option for extended stays. Phuket and Koh Samui follow closely behind, supported by strong international connectivity, established expatriate communities, and a broad range of accommodation options, from hotel to villas. Meanwhile, Hua Hin and Cha-am continue to attract attention from travelers seeking a more relaxed seaside lifestyle within easy reach of the capital.

Thailand’s southern islands also feature prominently in long-stay accommodation searches. Krabi, Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao, and Koh Lanta all rank among the most searched destinations, underscoring growing interest in locations that combine lifestyle appeal with the flexibility to work remotely. Koh Pha-ngan has evolved beyond its Full Moon Party reputation to become increasingly associated with wellness and digital nomad communities, while Koh Tao has climbed the rankings year-on-year, buoyed by its renowned diving scene and laid-back atmosphere.

Beyond the south, Koh Chang’s jungle-covered landscapes and slower pace of life have helped it emerge as an appealing alternative to Thailand’s more developed island destinations. Khao Lak and Rayong round out the top 15 most-searched destinations, reinforcing a broader trend in long-stay accommodation searches: travelers are increasingly drawn to locales that offer coastal living, lifestyle quality, and the flexibility to blend work and leisure from one location.

Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand and Indochina at Agoda said: “The line between work and travel is becoming increasingly blurred as flexible working arrangements give people more freedom over when and where they work. Our data shows Thai travelers searching for longer stays in overseas cities that offer a compelling mix of lifestyle, affordability, and infrastructure, while international travelers exploring extended stays in Thailand continue to gravitate toward the country’s islands and coastal destinations. At Agoda, we’re committed to making it easy for travelers to discover the right stay for this evolving way of traveling, whether they’re working remotely, taking an extended break, or blending both.”

For those looking to reimagine their next trip through a bleisure lens, offers over 6 million holiday properties worldwide, alongside more than 300,000 experiences and over 130,000 flight routes. Whether working remotely for a month or simply extending a stay to experience a destination more deeply, travelers can find everything they need to plan their next extended trip at www.agoda.com or the Agoda app.

Thailand Restores 30-Day Visa-Free Stay, Limits Visa-Free Land Entries to Twice a Year

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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A picture of people lining up to travel to Thailand at the Nong Khai Border Checkpoint. (Photo by Laotian Times staff)

UPDATED on 30 September with an official confirmation from the Thai Embassy

Thailand has cut its visa-free tourist stay from 60 days back to 30 days, ending an expanded temporary scheme that had been in place since July 2024.

Foreign nationals holding a Lao-issued work permit, stay permit, or diplomatic identity card are exempt from the new limits on visa-exempt land-border entries and the 30-day visa-free stay.

The change took effect on 15 September and affects travelers from dozens of countries. Lao passport holders, however, are subject to a separate bilateral visa exemption agreement between Laos and Thailand.

What Changed on 15 September

Thailand’s old 60-day exemption covered 93 countries and territories, Laos included. That scheme has now been scrapped.

In its place, Thailand re-introduced the 30-day tourist exemption scheme. Thailand also added a 15-day exemption category for Seychelles and Mauritius, and trimmed the list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival. The revised measures were published in the Royal Gazette on 31 August and took effect 15 days later. Other visa categories are unaffected.

Separately, under the new rules, travellers from 60 countries and territories, among them Australia, Germany, India, Japan, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, are limited to two visa-exempt land-border entries per calendar year.

This measure aimed at stopping “visa runs,” in which travellers leave Thailand right before their stay expires and immediately re-enter for another free 30 days.

Bilateral Agreement

Laos was never part of the general tourist exemption framework the way most other countries are. Lao citizens have long travelled to Thailand under a separate bilateral visa exemption agreement between the two governments, one that has always granted 30 days visa-free.

The reason Lao travellers had been enjoying 60 days was because Laos was also included on the old, broader 93-country list under the expanded 2024 scheme, which offered the longer stay on top of the bilateral arrangement. 

Because the two-entry land-border cap is a rule specific to the 60-country scheme, and Lao citizens fall outside that scheme entirely, the limit does not appear to apply to them.

Diplomatic channels indicate the cap is intended to target foreign tourists doing visa runs, and will not apply to Lao nationals or to foreign nationals residing in Laos.

Foreign nationals residing in Laos may also be asked to present a work permit, stay permit or diplomatic identity card issued by Laos when entering Thailand, according to the same diplomatic-channel information, though the Laotian Times was not able to independently confirm these details with local officials.

Confusion at the Border

Still, the rule as written and how it’s being enforced don’t yet appear to be fully in sync. The Laotian Times checked with Lao and Thai immigration officials at the Vientiane-Nong Khai border crossing on 16 September. Officials confirmed the return to a 30-day visa-free stay, but could not specify how the new two-entry limit applies to travellers crossing from Laos, or which categories of entry it covers.

Thai authorities said the review was based on national security, tourism and economic interests, reciprocity, and a desire to reduce overlapping visa exemption arrangements. The government also cited concerns about misuse of visa-free stays and a need to simplify Thailand’s visa system. 

ICONSIAM Invites Global Travelers to Discover Why Bangkok Remains One of Asia’s Most Revisited Destinations This Golden Week

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Advertorial Desk
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Best Things to Do in Bangkok This Golden Week: Discover Authentic Thai Cuisine, Luxury Shopping, Cultural Experiences and Iconic Chao Phraya River Attractions at ICONSIAM


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2026 – As Golden Week inspires millions of travelers across Asia to embark on international journeys, ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, is inviting visitors to discover why Bangkok continues to rank among Asia’s most revisited destinations, offering an unrivaled blend of luxury shopping, cultural immersion, world-class gastronomy and distinctive riverside experiences in one destination.

ICONSIAM_ A Global Landmark Along the Chao Phraya River
ICONSIAM_ A Global Landmark Along the Chao Phraya River

As travel trends shift from traditional sightseeing toward more immersive and experience-led journeys, destinations that offer a strong sense of place and a diverse range of experiences are increasingly capturing the attention of global travelers. In this landscape, ICONSIAM embodies The Best of Thailand Meets the Best of the World, bringing together the country’s cultural heritage, creativity and craftsmanship with international luxury, gastronomy and lifestyle. Set along the historic Chao Phraya River, ICONSIAM offers visitors a distinctive perspective on contemporary Thailand, where the country’s traditions and global influences come together in one iconic waterfront destination.

SOOKSIAM_ Thailand's first co-creation space to empower local communities from all 77 provinces of Thailand across the nation's four regions
SOOKSIAM_ Thailand’s first co-creation space to empower local communities from all 77 provinces of Thailand across the nation’s four regions

“Today’s travelers are looking for destinations that offer a deeper connection to the places they visit—experiences that are authentic, memorable and meaningful,” said Mrs. Suma Wongphan, Executive Vice President and Division Head of Marketing at ICONSIAM Company Limited. “Bangkok has a unique ability to inspire repeat visits because there is always another side of the city to discover. As a Global Experiential Destination, ICONSIAM is proud to contribute to this appeal by creating a platform where visitors can experience the many facets of Thailand while enjoying the standards and diversity of a truly international destination. This Golden Week, we look forward to welcoming travelers from around the world and giving them even more reasons to make ICONSIAM a highlight of their Bangkok journey.”

A Culinary Journey Through Thailand and Beyond

Food remains one of the strongest motivations for travelers returning to Bangkok, and ICONSIAM offers a diverse culinary journey that reflects the city’s reputation as one of Asia’s leading gastronomic capitals. At SOOKSIAM on the G Floor, visitors can experience the atmosphere of Thailand’s floating market where visitors can explore the flavors of Thailand’s four regions through authentic cuisine. Beyond SOOKSIAM, ICONSIAM’s culinary offering extends from the acclaimed flavors of Nara Thai Cuisine and ThongSmith to beloved Thai favorites such as After You, Cha Tra Mue and Pang Cha, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the diverse tastes and culinary traditions that continue to make Bangkok a compelling destination for food lovers.

Complementing its retail and dining offerings are ICONSIAM’s signature riverside attractions along the legendary Chao Phraya River. Visitors can enjoy sweeping waterfront views, experience the spectacular ICONIC Multimedia Water Features Show (G Floor), marvel at the iconic Alangkarn Waterfall (6th Floor), and discover art exhibitions, cultural showcases and immersive attractions throughout ICONSIAM.

Discovering Thailand Through Creativity and Craftsmanship

For travelers looking to bring home a meaningful piece of Thailand, ICONCRAFT located on the 4th and 5th floors, offers a carefully curated showcase of contemporary Thai craftsmanship, artisan products and creative enterprises from across the country. The immersive retail concept celebrates local creativity while providing visitors with unique souvenirs and design-led products that reflect Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and evolving creative landscape.

Discover ICONLUXE, Home to Global Fashion Houses, Fine Jewelry and Prestigious Watchmakers

At the center of this offering is ICONLUXE, one of Southeast Asia’s premier luxury hubs, home to an extraordinary collection of internationally renowned luxury houses and flagship boutiques, including Bottega Veneta, Celine, Dior, Gucci, Hermès and Loewe, alongside prestigious jewelry and watchmakers such as Breguet, Bvlgari, Cartier, Chopard, Chaumet, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Omega and Patek Philippe. Complementing its luxury offering is an extensive selection of international lifestyle and fashion brands, including ALO, LOFT, MUJI, UNIQLO, ZARA as well as leading Thai wellness and fragrance brands such as Antidotes, PANPURI and THANN. Together, these offerings underscore ICONSIAM’s ability to curate an exceptional mix of international luxury, contemporary lifestyle and distinctive Thai brands, creating a destination that continues to elevate Bangkok’s position as a leading global shopping and lifestyle capital.

A destination of ‘firsts’ flagship store and ‘bests’ that brings immediate global attention to Bangkok

At the heart of Bangkok’s dynamic riverside lies ICONSIAM, a destination of “firsts” and “bests” that continues to attract global attention to Thailand. Recognized as Thailand’s Firstism Leader, ICONSIAM has introduced some of the world’s most sought-after first-to-Thailand brands and experiences, including the country’s first flagship Apple Store, Thailand’s first Blue by Alain Ducasse, a Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse, and the POP MART BANGKOK ICONSIAM FLAGSHIP STORE, and HAUS NOWHERE Bangkok, the first HAUS NOWHERE destination in Southeast Asia, home to TAMBURINS’ first Southeast Asia store and Thailand’s largest Gentle Monster store. Together, these globally recognized brands and flagship experiences continue to reinforce ICONSIAM’s position as a leading destination where international culture, innovation, fashion and lifestyle converge on Bangkok’s iconic Chao Phraya River waterfront.

Exclusive Golden Week Privileges for Tourists visiting ICONSIAM

To make the Golden Week experience even more memorable, ICONSIAM is launching “Discover Thailand at ICONSIAM“, an interactive social media campaign taking place from 25 September to 7 October 2026 at the ONESIAM Global Visitor Lounge (1st Floor). International visitors are invited to share their favorite moments at ICONSIAM, from food and cultural discoveries to shopping finds, local craftsmanship and iconic riverside experiences, by posting at least 2 original photos or 1 video on social media. Participants who complete the challenge will have the opportunity to play a capsule machine and receive complimentary Thai-inspired souvenirs, including ICONSIAM’s exclusive scarf, ICONCRAFT’s Thai-Inspired Mini Bag, handheld electronic fan, bracelet and a Siam Gift Card voucher. The campaign is designed to encourage travelers to explore, experience and share the many dimensions of Thailand that come together at ICONSIAM.

As Bangkok continues to attract travelers seeking meaningful, experience-led journeys, ICONSIAM stands at the heart of the city’s appeal, offering an unparalleled blend of shopping, dining, culture and riverside experiences. This Golden Week, visitors are invited to discover why Bangkok remains one of Asia’s most beloved and revisited destinations, and to experience the very best of modern Thailand in one extraordinary destination.

For more information, please visit www.iconsiam.com.

Hashtag: #ICONSIAM

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

Thailand Restores 30-Day Visa-Free Stay, Limits Visa-Free Land Entries to Twice a Year

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
-
Thailand restores 30-day visa-free stays, while Lao travelers remain under a separate bilateral agreement and appear exempt from the new land-entry cap.

Thailand has cut its visa-free tourist stay from 60 days back to 30 days, ending an expanded temporary scheme that had been in place since July 2024.

The change took effect on 15 September and applies to travelers from dozens of countries, though Lao passport holders face a distinct set of rules, since Laos operates under its own bilateral visa exemption agreement with Thailand.

What changed on 15 September

Thailand’s old 60-day exemption covered 93 countries and territories, Laos included. That scheme has now been scrapped.

In its place, Thailand re-introduced the 30-day tourist exemption scheme. Thailand also added a 15-day exemption category for Seychelles and Mauritius, and trimmed the list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival. Other visa categories are unaffected.

Separately, under the new rules, travelers from 60 countries and territories, among them Australia, Germany, India, Japan, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, are limited to two visa-exempt land-border entries per calendar year.

This measure aimed at stopping “visa runs,” in which travelers leave Thailand right before their stay expires and immediately re-enter for another free 30 days.

Bilateral Agreement

Laos was never part of the general tourist exemption framework the way most other countries are. Lao citizens have long traveled to Thailand under a separate bilateral visa exemption agreement between the two governments, one that has always granted 30 days visa-free.

Lao travelers had been enjoying 60 days only because Laos was also included on the old, broader 93-country list under the expanded 2024 scheme, which offered the longer stay on top of the existing bilateral arrangement.

Now that the expanded scheme has been scrapped, Lao citizens fall back on the bilateral agreement alone, 30 days, the same as before July 2024. The same applies to travelers from China, Hong Kong, Macao, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Russia, Timor-Leste and Vietnam, who also hold bilateral arrangements with Thailand and are unaffected by the new land-border entry cap facing the 60 countries on the general list.

Because that two-entry limit is a rule specific to the new 60-country scheme, and Lao citizens fall outside that scheme entirely, it does not appear to apply to them.

Diplomatic channels suggest the cap is intended to target foreign tourists doing visa runs, and will not apply to Lao nationals or to foreign nationals residing in Laos.

Foreign nationals residing in Laos may also be asked to present a work permit, stay permit or diplomatic identity card issued by Laos when entering Thailand, according to the same diplomatic-channel information, though the Laotian Times was not able to independently confirm these details with local officials.

Confusion at the Border

Still, the rule as written and how it’s being enforced don’t yet appear to be fully in sync. The Laotian Times checked with Lao and Thai immigration officials at the Vientiane-Nong Khai border crossing on 16 September. Officials confirmed the return to a 30-day visa-free stay, but could not specify how the new two-entry limit applies to travelers crossing from Laos, or which categories of entry it covers.

Thai authorities said the review was based on national security, tourism and economic interests, reciprocity, and a desire to reduce overlapping visa exemption arrangements. The government also cited concerns about misuse of visa-free stays and a need to simplify Thailand’s visa system.

Swift Shades Removes Bulk-Order Barriers with New Swift Solutions Programme

By
Advertorial Desk
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New Swift Solutions programme gives hospitality and commercial businesses greater access to premium customised outdoor branding without traditional volume constraints

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Premium outdoor branding has traditionally come with a significant challenge: high minimum order quantities, lengthy production timelines and limited flexibility for smaller businesses.

For hospitality venues, event operators and commercial brands looking to strengthen their visual presence, accessing fully customised outdoor products has often required committing to large-volume orders that may not align with operational needs or budgets.

As a result, many businesses have been left choosing between generic outdoor furnishings and costly bulk purchases simply to achieve a professional branded environment.

Swift Shades is addressing this challenge through its newly launched Swift Solutions programme, a service-led initiative designed to make premium outdoor branding more accessible, flexible and efficient.

Rather than introducing a new product range, Swift Solutions represents a logistics and fulfilment innovation aimed at simplifying the customisation process while significantly reducing lead times for customers.

Built around the philosophy of “You choose, we deliver. From here, it’s on us.”, the programme allows customers to focus on selecting products, colours and branding requirements while Swift Shades manages the production and delivery process from start to finish.

Backed by more than 70 years of umbrella manufacturing expertise, Swift Shades combines commercial-grade product quality, responsive customer service and operational flexibility to help businesses create impactful branded environments without the complexity typically associated with custom manufacturing.

Making Premium Branding More Accessible

As competition for customer attention continues to intensify, branded outdoor environments have become increasingly important for hospitality, retail and commercial businesses seeking to strengthen brand recognition and enhance customer experiences.

However, traditional manufacturing models often prioritise high-volume production runs, creating barriers for businesses that require lower order quantities.

The Swift Solutions programme was developed to bridge this gap by providing a more accessible pathway to customised branding solutions while maintaining the quality standards expected of commercial-grade products.

The programme is designed to support a broad range of customers, including cafés, restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, hotels, event organisers and commercial property operators.

A Fulfilment Model Designed for Speed

Speed is another key focus of Swift Solutions.

Custom covers are manufactured and printed according to customer requirements in China before being couriered to Australia for final preparation and dispatch.

By structuring production and fulfilment around the different stages of an order, Swift Shades is able to offer customised products within six weeks or earlier.

This allows businesses to plan customised branding projects around operational requirements, seasonal campaigns, events or venue openings without the longer timelines traditionally associated with made-to-order manufacturing.

The streamlined approach is intended to give customers greater flexibility while retaining the customisation options required to reflect individual brand identities.

Commercial-Grade Quality Remains the Priority

While Swift Solutions focuses on speed and flexibility, product quality remains central to the company’s offering.

Swift Shades’ manufacturing philosophy is built on superior quality, craftsmanship, thorough testing and continuous improvement, ensuring products are designed to withstand demanding commercial environments.

The company also positions itself as a trusted partner, helping customers navigate branding requirements while providing responsive support and dependable delivery outcomes.

Rather than requiring customers to choose between quality and convenience, Swift Solutions aims to deliver both through a streamlined operational model.

One Solution for Complete Outdoor Branding

Beyond market umbrellas, Swift Solutions extends across a broader ecosystem of branded outdoor products designed to create a consistent visual identity across customer-facing spaces.

The programme currently includes:

  • Market umbrellas
  • Breeze barriers
  • Barrier sleeves
  • Deck chairs
  • Cushions and pillows
  • Bean bags
  • Bar mats
  • Feather banners

The six-week-or-earlier turnaround applies across all of the product categories listed under the programme.

By providing these products through a single programme, Swift Shades aims to simplify procurement, customisation and fulfilment for businesses seeking a more coordinated approach to outdoor branding.

For hospitality operators, this could mean coordinating branded umbrellas, barriers and other outdoor furnishings across a café, restaurant or hotel space. For events and commercial brands, it provides a way to develop customised assets across multiple touchpoints while working with a single supplier.

Responding to More Flexible Business Needs

The launch of Swift Solutions reflects changing expectations among businesses seeking greater flexibility from suppliers.

Companies may require customised products for a single location, seasonal promotion, new venue, event or limited campaign without needing the quantities traditionally associated with custom manufacturing.

By supporting orders from as few as one to three units and providing turnaround within six weeks or earlier, Swift Shades is positioning Swift Solutions as an alternative for businesses that require professional customisation without large-volume commitments.

The programme also allows businesses to scale their requirements over time, whether starting with selected branded products or developing a more complete outdoor environment.

Through Swift Solutions, Swift Shades aims to remove some of the traditional barriers surrounding customised outdoor branding, giving hospitality, event and commercial businesses greater flexibility in how they bring their brands into physical spaces.

About Swift Shades

Swift Shades provides commercial-grade outdoor shelter and branding solutions for hospitality, corporate, advertising and commercial environments.

Born from the legacy of MS1947, the company draws on more than 70 years of umbrella manufacturing expertise to provide customised outdoor products combining craftsmanship, design and commercial functionality.

Swift Shades operates internationally, with a presence in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, and offers a range of outdoor shelter and branding solutions for businesses across different markets. Its product portfolio includes umbrellas, parasols and complementary customised outdoor branding products.

For more information, visit www.swiftshades.com.

Mango Power S Earns UL 3700 Certification for Interactive Plug-In Solar Applications

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Building on UL 1741, IEEE 1547 and CEC listing, Mango Power S combines 97% CEC efficiency, single-stage Cyclo topology and intelligent anti-backflow control for a simpler owner-led solar experience

NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mango Power, a clean energy technology company and home energy brand, today announced that Mango Power S has been certified by Intertek to UL 3700, which addresses Interactive Plug-In Photovoltaic Equipment and Systems.

The certification expands Mango Power S’s established U.S. credentials—including UL 1741, IEEE 1547 and California Energy Commission (CEC) listing—to include plug-in solar applications. It marks another step in Mango Power’s effort to make residential solar safer, simpler to deploy and more accessible to homeowners.

Mango Power S combines a 97% CEC-efficient single-stage Cyclo microinverter topology, Wi-Fi Mesh connectivity, app-based monitoring and a 25-year limited microinverter warranty. Paired with the 200A Mango Power Smart Gateway Lite, the system also supports whole-home energy monitoring and zero-export-capable control with a 200ms anti-backflow response.

“UL 3700 certification is an important milestone for Mango Power S and our vision for owner-led home energy,” said Steve Wang, CEO of Mango Power. “Together with our existing UL 1741 and IEEE 1547 credentials and CEC listing, it strengthens the foundation for a DIY plug-in solar experience built around independently evaluated equipment, efficient power conversion and intelligent energy management.”

A New Milestone for DIY Plug-In Solar

UL 3700 addresses Interactive Plug-In Photovoltaic equipment and systems, commonly known as PIPV. Certification to these requirements gives homeowners, installers, distributors and industry partners an additional independently evaluated basis for considering Mango Power S in plug-in solar projects.

Plug-in solar can give homeowners a more direct path to generating electricity. Customers can select a defined product configuration, evaluate their available space and daytime energy use, and manage the project around their own needs instead of beginning with a traditional, sales-led solar process.

Mango Power believes homeowners should have more control over their energy choices while still having access to professional support when needed. With this vision, Mango Power introduces a “DIY, not alone” approach, allowing homeowners to select their system and plan their projects while adding qualified electrical support when required by installation conditions or local requirements.

By bringing the principal components together in a coordinated solution, Mango Power S is designed to reduce project complexity, improve deployment efficiency and help lower certain equipment, installation and project-management costs.

97% CEC Efficiency Through Single-Stage Cyclo Topology

The core architecture of Mango Power S is a single-stage Cyclo microinverter topology developed for efficient, compact power conversion.

Mango Power S achieves 97% CEC efficiency and up to 99.9% MPPT efficiency, helping convert available solar energy into usable AC electricity. Its single-stage architecture simplifies the power-conversion path, supported by Mango Power’s control algorithms, thermal design and system-level optimization.

Each microinverter performs independent conversion at the panel level, helping limit the effect that shading or differences in one panel’s output have on other panels.

A sealed, IP68-rated enclosure supports outdoor operation. Anti-islanding and rapid-shutdown functions provide system protections, while a 25-year limited microinverter warranty, subject to applicable terms, supports long-term ownership.

Mango Power’s development is also strengthened by its global partnership with Infineon. The collaboration combines Infineon’s power-semiconductor technologies with Mango Power’s capabilities in Cyclo topology, control algorithms and system optimization to advance conversion efficiency, compact design, thermal performance and intelligent control.

Smart Gateway Lite Supports Self-Consumption and Anti-Backflow Control

The 200A Mango Power Smart Gateway Lite monitors household consumption, solar production and grid power flow. When correctly installed and configured, it provides zero-export-capable energy control with a 200ms anti-backflow response.

Combined with Wi-Fi Mesh connectivity and the Mango Power App, the system gives users a clear view of solar generation and household energy use. This visibility can help households shift appropriate electricity use into solar-producing hours, increase on-site consumption of the energy they generate and reduce electricity purchased from the grid during those periods.

Actual production, self-consumption and electricity-bill savings depend on sunlight, panel placement, system capacity, household consumption, electricity rates and other conditions.

120V and 240V Options for Different Plug-In Solar Needs

Mango Power is developing its plug-in solar portfolio around different household energy needs and installation scenarios.

Mango Power S PIPV 1200W Kit

The Mango Power S PIPV 1200W Kit combines:

  • Four 300W solar panels;
  • Four 120V Mango Power S microinverters;
  • Mounting stands and AC connection accessories;
  • A 200A Smart Gateway Lite; and
  • Mango Power App monitoring.

The packaged 120V solution gives customers a defined starting point for a smaller, owner-led solar project, bringing the principal generation, connection and monitoring components together in one system.

Upcoming 240V Split-Phase Plug-In Solar

Mango Power also plans to introduce a 240V split-phase plug-in solar configuration for customers seeking greater generation capacity.

Its split-phase design connects solar generation across both legs of a typical U.S. residential electrical service, helping maintain balanced generation and allowing eligible household loads on either leg to use available solar energy.

The forthcoming system is being developed as a solar-only, grid-tied plug-in solution. It is intended to expand the range of household electricity demand that can be offset by daytime solar generation.

Together, the 120V and upcoming 240V options will give homeowners greater flexibility to select a plug-in solar configuration based on available space, daytime consumption, desired capacity and site-specific electrical requirements.

Making Home Solar Easier to Own

By combining UL 3700 certification with existing UL 1741 and IEEE 1547 credentials and CEC listing, Mango Power S establishes a strong technical foundation for DIY-minded plug-in solar.

Its 97% CEC-efficient single-stage topology, panel-level power conversion, connected monitoring, 25-year limited warranty and zero-export-capable energy management are designed to simplify solar planning, improve deployment efficiency and help more households generate and use their own electricity.

System capacity, connection method and installation requirements depend on the selected equipment, electrical design and applicable local rules. Electrical installation and utility interconnection may require a licensed electrician and local approval.

Homeowners, installers, distributors and prospective partners can learn more about Mango Power S and Mango Power’s home energy portfolio at www.mangopower.com/collections/diy-solar.

About Mango Power

Mango Power is a clean energy technology company and global home energy brand developing products across solar generation, microinverters, battery storage, backup power and intelligent energy management.

Through power-electronics engineering, single-stage Cyclo topology, control algorithms and microgrid technologies, Mango Power works to make home energy systems safer, smarter and more accessible.

Guided by the vision “Every Home, A Smart Microgrid,” the company develops technologies that help households generate, store and manage electricity.

Learn more at www.mangopower.com.

Media Contact
Hiuting
Mango Power
Email: pr@mangopower.com
Website: www.mangopower.com

Mango Power S has achieved UL 3700 certification for Interactive Plug-In Photovoltaic equipment and systems. The product combines a 97% CEC-efficient single-stage Cyclo topology, Wi-Fi Mesh connectivity and a 25-year limited warranty, while the 200A Smart Gateway Lite supports energy monitoring and zero-export-capable control with a 200ms anti-backflow response.

Tetra Pak and Soy Excellence Center Asia Host Regional Soy Food and Beverage Programme in Thailand

By
Advertorial Desk
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The three-day learning event brings together soy industry professionals from across Asia for practical learning spanning processing technology, product development and consumer insights.

BANGKOK, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Tetra Pak, in collaboration with the Soy Excellence Center Asia, a U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) initiative, hosted the Soy Food & Beverage Intermediate learning track from 15-17 September 2026 at Tetra Pak’s Product Development Centre (PDC) in Rayong and Customer Innovation Centre (CIC) in Bangkok. The learning track brought together soy industry professionals from across Asia to strengthen their knowledge of soy beverage processing, formulation and consumer-led product development.

Soy Ingredients
Soy Ingredients

Asia Pacific accounts for 75% of the global plant-based beverage volume.[1] In many Western markets, plant-based beverages are commonly positioned as alternatives to dairy. Across many Asian markets, however soy has long been an established part of the beverage category alongside other plant-based drinks.

As consumer preferences evolve and the range of plant-based products expands, the challenge for soy beverage manufacturers is to bring new value to a familiar category. This can mean exploring and developing new taste and texture profiles, addressing different nutritional needs and creating products for new consumption occasions and formats.

Over three days, the learning track explored opportunities across the soy beverage value chain, from soybean variety and supplier selection to formulation, processing technology, sensory evaluation and consumer understanding. Technical sessions were combined with hands-on learning and an ideation workshop, where participants developed soy beverage concepts tailored to specific consumer groups.

Sherry Chen, Center Lead, Soy Excellence Center Asia, said: “Growing the soy food and beverage category starts with understanding how decisions across the value chain, from soybean selection to processing and formulation, shape product quality and the consumer experience. The Soy Excellence Center Asia gives participants a practical learning environment to strengthen their technical skills and apply that knowledge directly to product development. Our collaboration with Tetra Pak brings this learning to life with hands-on experience, giving learners deeper insights into processing, formulation and consumer needs. By combining technical expertise with real-world application, we are equipping participants with practical insights they can use to innovate, improve products, and drive growth in their markets.”

Across Tetra Pak’s innovation ecosystem, participants worked across both the Customer Innovation Centre (CIC) in Bangkok and the Product Development Centre (PDC) in Rayong to gain end-to-end insights into soy beverage innovation and production.

At the CIC, sessions focused on product and consumer-led innovation, exploring plant-based trends across Asia Pacific, Tetra Pak’s customer innovation ecosystem, functional ingredients, fermentation technologies and the utilisation of okara.

At the PDC, participants took part in hands-on demonstrations across key stages of aseptic soy beverage production, including extraction, blending and UHT processing, aseptic filling, and food development. Tetra Pak specialists also shared expertise in production technologies, operational efficiency, troubleshooting, soy waste management and beverage formulation.

Sutthinun Taechathayanon, Customer Experience Manager APAC, Tetra Pak, said: “Soy is already familiar to consumers across many Asian markets, creating a strong foundation for further innovation. By combining consumer insights with formulation and processing expertise, producers can identify opportunities to enhance taste, texture, nutrition, and convenience while developing products that respond to changing consumer needs and consumption occasions. Through Tetra Pak’s CIC Bangkok and PDC Rayong, soy manufacturers can explore new product ideas, conduct trials, and accelerate the journey from concept to commercialization with greater confidence and reduced risk. Our continued collaboration with USSEC helps translate knowledge from across the soy value chain into practical product development opportunities for the industry.”

The Soy Food & Beverage Intermediate learning track course builds on the long-standing partnership between Tetra Pak and USSEC, combining USSEC’s expertise across the soy value chain with Tetra Pak’s expertise in processing and product development to support continued innovation across Asia Pacific’s soy food and beverage industry. To learn more about Tetra Pak’s soy beverage processing solutions, visit our website here.

ABOUT TETRA PAK

We’re here to make food safe and available. It’s why we provide advanced food production systems. In collaboration with our customers and suppliers, driven by more than 24,000 dedicated employees worldwide, we protect food sustainably every day for hundreds of millions of people in more than 160 countries. Because we’re here to fulfil a purpose:

We commit to making food safe and available, everywhere, and we promise to protect what’s good: food, people and the planet.

More information about Tetra Pak is available at tetrapak.com.

ABOUT SOY EXCELLENCE CENTER

The Soy Excellence Centers (SEC), an initiative by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), focuses on skills-building for early- to mid-career protein professionals in growing markets through world-class workforce training and professional development to meet local nutrition and food security needs and support sustainable economic growth. USSEC is collaborating with diverse partners, including local food and agriculture universities and organizations, to deliver training in five core subject areas – aquaculture, feed, food, poultry, and swine. USSEC operates Soy Excellence Centers in four regional hubs – Americas, Asia, Middle East and North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

[1] Tetra Pak Compass, Dairy Alternatives, 2025.

 

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