LONDON, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hitachi Solutions today announced the appointment of Roger Lvin as Chief Executive Officer and President, effective immediately.
Roger Lvin, CEO and President, Hitachi Solutions
Roger Lvin is a proven global transformation leader with more than 20 years of experience building high–performance organisations and scaling technology–led consulting businesses. He brings a strong track record of helping enterprises translate digital innovation into measurable business outcomes.
Lvin previously served as Founding CEO of Hitachi Digital Services, where he established the business and led its strategy, growth, and market positioning as a recognised leader in digital transformation and IT–OT convergence. Under his leadership, the organisation developed deep credibility with global enterprises seeking to modernise operations, accelerate innovation, and drive sustainable growth.
Prior to his roles within Hitachi, Lvin held senior leadership positions at Cognizant, including leading its Digital Operations business and scaling it into a multi–billion–dollar global organisation.
Under Lvin’s leadership, Hitachi Solutions will further strengthen its position as a trusted partner for large–scale, digital transformation. The company will continue to build on its exclusive global partnership with Microsoft and deepen collaboration across the Hitachi group as part of the “True One Hitachi” initiative. Worldwide teams will remain focused on delivering transformative outcomes at scale, underpinned by ongoing investments in Microsoft’s AI–enabled cloud and data platforms and business applications.
“Roger’s leadership and growth mindset come at a pivotal moment in our evolution,” said Soichiro Ohara, Chairman, Hitachi Solutions. “As we expand our global footprint, his experience will help sharpen our focus on innovation, execution, and long–term value creation for organisations worldwide.”
“I am honoured to lead Hitachi Solutions and build on its strong legacy of delivering meaningful business transformation,” said Roger Lvin. “I am passionate about building organisations where technology serves a higher purpose. Underpinned by Hitachi’s commitment to social innovation, we have a powerful opportunity to partner with organisations globally to accelerate transformation, unlock new sources of growth, and create lasting competitive advantage.”
About Hitachi Solutions
Hitachi Solutions empowers sustainable business transformation through tailored advisory, consulting, and technology solutions for organisations worldwide. Our expertise spans finance, sales, and service transformation, low-code innovation, and the strategic use of AI and data to drive insight and efficiency.
As a Microsoft-first organisation, Hitachi Solutions is dedicated exclusively to the Microsoft ecosystem, leveraging their business, cloud, AI, and data platforms to achieve meaningful business outcomes for our customers.
Headquartered in Tokyo, our global teams operate across North America, Europe, India, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Hitachi Solutions is part of Hitachi, Ltd., one of the world’s largest and most respected organisations. As part of this extraordinary network of over 850 companies, we work together as “One Hitachi”—sharing knowledge, expertise, and a shared commitment to innovation and social progress.
In everything we do, we partner closely with our customers to drive transformation, build lasting value, and honour the trusted values that define Hitachi.
LONDON, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ECARX Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: ECX) (“ECARX” or the “Company”), a global mobility tech provider, today announced that its Board of Directors approved a preliminary plan to pursue the potential acquisition of a minority interest and certain intellectual property assets (particularly relating to FlyMe OS) of DreamSmart Technology Pte. Ltd., a private limited company incorporated in Singapore and an affiliate of the Company, and its subsidiaries and consolidated entities (“DreamSmart”).
Under this preliminary plan, the total consideration payable by the Company for the acquisition may be a combination of cash and securities of the Company and/or its subsidiaries.
The Company may also seek to obtain third party financing, which could include credit facilities, term loans, or other debt financing, to fund a portion of the consideration and associated transaction costs. Any issuance of shares, incurrence of indebtedness, or other financing arrangements would be subject to market conditions, lender and investor interest, applicable regulatory and stock exchange requirements, and assessment and final approval by the Company’s board of directors. The structure, mix, and amount of consideration are expected to be the subject of further analysis and negotiation and may change materially.
The planned acquisition remains in an early, exploratory stage and is subject to uncertainties, including ongoing due diligence, negotiation of definitive documentation, and procurement of financing. There can be no assurance that the Company and DreamSmart will enter into any binding agreement or that any transaction will be consummated.
Chairman and CEO Ziyu Shen commented, “This transaction represents a strategic step in strengthening our long-term product and technology capabilities.”
About ECARX ECARX Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ECX) is a global mobility technology company powering the next generation of software-defined vehicles. Founded in 2017 and listed on Nasdaq in 2022, the Company delivers full-stack intelligent mobility solutions, spanning system-on-chip (SoC) core modules, automotive computing platforms, software stacks, and user-centric experiences.
Its mission is to accelerate automotive intelligence and build new human-vehicle relationships, redefining safe, enjoyable, and AI-driven mobility for all. With 13 global R&D and commercial hubs across China, the U.S., UK, Germany, Sweden, and Singapore, ECARX partners with top automakers including Geely Group, Volkswagen Group, Volvo Cars, and Polestar to reduce complexity, lower costs, and accelerate time-to-market.
The Company’s technology is integrated into over 11 million vehicles worldwide, supporting more than 28 automotive brands and 10 leading Tier 1 suppliers.
Forward-Looking Statements This release contains statements that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management’s beliefs and expectations as well as on assumptions made by and data currently available to management, appear in a number of places throughout this document and include statements regarding, amongst other things, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the industry in which we operate. The use of words “expects”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “predicts”, “believes”, “should”, “potential”, “may”, “preliminary”, “forecast”, “objective”, “plan”, or “target”, and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including, but not limited to statements regarding our intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies, future market conditions or economic performance and developments in the capital and credit markets and expected future financial performance, and the markets in which we operate.
For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement, see ECARX’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. ECARX undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by applicable law.
TOKYO, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From April 8 to 10, Japan IT Week Spring 2026 is held at Tokyo Big Sight. Fibocom presents its latest AIoT innovations under the theme “AIoT Connectivity for a Smarter Digital World,” showcasing end-to-end capabilities spanning modules, edge computing, and integrated vertical solutions across smart outdoor, broadband connectivity, AI companionship, and industrial IoT.
Japan IT Week Spring 2026 Fibocom Showcases AIoT Innovations
In the smart outdoor segment, Fibocom introduces its system-level intelligent lawn mower solution, which becomes one of the most innovative and attention-grabbing highlights at the show. Supporting both vision-based and vision + RTK hybrid navigation, the solution leverages edge computing and high-precision positioning to enable centimeter-level obstacle avoidance and stable operation in complex garden environments, addressing diverse terrain and real-world outdoor scenarios.
In the broadband connectivity domain, Fibocom showcases its comprehensive 5G FWA portfolio built on next-generation platforms, including FG200- and FG390-based modules. The solution lineup covers MiFi, ODU, IDU, and CPE devices, accelerating global 5G adoption across residential and enterprise markets. A highlight is the new AI-powered integrated home CPE, which combines high-speed 5G connectivity with embedded AI capabilities, enabling seamless integration of home office, entertainment, and smart home management in a unified experience.
In AI-driven applications, the MagiCore AI companion solution attracts strong attention. Positioned as the intelligent core for companion devices, MagiCore supports customizable interaction styles and emotional response capabilities, enabling more natural and engaging human-device interaction. With its compact form factor, ultra-low power design, and integrated 4G connectivity, it ensures always-on connectivity and enhances portable AI companionship experiences.
Additionally, Fibocom presents a wide range of AIoT terminals, including smart metering devices, dashcams, trackers, pet wearables, and industrial gateways, highlighting its strong expertise in smart energy, telematics, asset tracking, and industrial digital transformation.
Fibocom welcomes visitors to Booth W25-13 to explore the latest AIoT innovations and experience the future of intelligent connectivity.
Targets Over 30% Profit from Non-Residential Businesses by 2030 Strong Backlog Supports 2026 Revenue Target of THB 25.5 Billion
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2026 – SC has announced its first major rebrand in 20 years, repositioning the brand as “Beyond Residential”. The company is moving forward with the strategy “Reform to Perform” to rebalance its business portfolio through three business engines, diversifying revenue sources, increasing recurring income, and building new S-curves for future growth. SC has set a total revenue target of THB 25.5 billion for 2026 and aims to achieve a new profit high by 2030.
Mr. Nuttaphong Kunakornwong, Chief Executive Officer of SC Asset Corporation Public Company Limited or SC, said that the fragile global economic environment has prompted the company to proactively adapt over the past two to three years. These efforts include organizational restructuring, financial discipline, expanding joint investment partnerships, and initiating new businesses in line with its risk diversification strategy. The company has gradually reshaped its business structure into a portfolio built around three business engines. These include Engine 1 Residential Property, Engine 2 Recurring Income Property, and Engine 3 New Businesses for a Better Future.
SC is also targeting to increase the profit contribution from Engine 2 and Engine 3 to more than 30 percent in order to drive the company’s overall profit to reach a new high again by 2030, while ensuring that all businesses continue to create value for people and the planet.
In 2026, the company will implement a comprehensive rebrand, including a new logo and refreshed corporate identity, marking its first such transformation in 20 years. The move reinforces SC’s position as “Beyond Residential,” supported by a more flexible and diversified portfolio, enabling the company to engage more effectively with customers, employees, partners, investors, and stakeholders.
2026 Business Targets and Plans
SC targets total revenue of THB 25.5 billion in 2026, representing 21% growth year-on-year, with a capital expenditure budget of THB 8 billion to drive all three business engines. The Interest-Bearing Debt to Equity ratio (IBD/E) is expected to decline to below 1.2 times.
Engine 1: Residential Property, targeting sales of THB 27 billion, up approximately 33% from 2025, and transfers of THB 23 billion, with backlog of more than THB 18.5 billion as of end-2025, of which around 40% is expected to be recognized in 2026.
– Low-rise housing: Revitalizing of eight single-detached home series across 17 projects under a concept focused on deeply understanding life needs. – Condominium: Launch of a new ultra-luxury branded residence and a new riverside project, with a combined value of THB 25.5 billion across two projects.
– Introduction of “GenSCription” (Living Subscription Program by SC), responding to the growing shift toward renting instead of homeownership among younger generations, increasing accessibility and flexibility in housing.
Engine 2: Recurring Income Property, covering operations across hotels, warehouses, office buildings, and rental apartments in the U.S. The business targets revenue growth of around 70 percent to THB 2 billion.
– Expansion of hospitality portfolio by 450 rooms in key seaside destinations such as Pattaya and Phuket. – Development of an additional 170,000 square meters of warehouse space in the Bangna–EEC zone. – Investment in alternative energy businesses to support data center growth under SCX 360.
Engine 3: New Businesses for a Better Future, covering after-sales services, digital platforms, and health related businesses. The company targets revenue of THB 400 million this year, representing growth of around 60 percent from 2025.
– After-sales services will expand from 150 projects to 260 projects, alongside the launch of LINTON, a concierge service designed for ultra luxury residents. – SC has allocated an investment budget of THB 1 billion over the next three years to support the growth of this business segment.
SC also introduced “SC Green Mark,” a green building development standard encompassing environmental performance and residents’ quality of life. The standard will be applied across all engines and projects to ensure sustainable growth aligned with long-term environmental responsibility.
Sustainable business operations
– The company continues to operate in accordance with international sustainability assessment standards of FTSE Russell. – SC is advancing its greenhouse gas reduction efforts in line with its five-year target of reducing 100,000 tons of carbon emissions from 2025 to 2030. – The company is also introducing SC Green Mark, a green building development standard covering environmental performance and residents’ quality of life, which will be applied across all engines and projects.
“Brands are like living things. They survive through evolution, and brands that fail to adapt will eventually become extinct. SC therefore continues to evolve. Rebranding and organizational reform are part of that evolution. A more flexible and diversified business portfolio will enable SC not only to survive but to grow sustainably in the highly volatile and challenging real estate industry, while creating greater value for people more broadly,” Nuttaphong said. Hashtag: #SC #SCisQuality #SCBusinessDirection2026 #ReformtoPerform
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2026 – On March 31, 2026, China Mobile hosted the 2026 China Mobile Digital Empowerment Cooperation Conference for Chinese Enterprises Going Global in Beijing. The conference focused on the needs for digital and intelligent development of Chinese enterprises going global, jointly exploring new trends in digital and intelligent empowerment for the global development of Chinese enterprises, and it was broadcast live simultaneously around the world. Zhang Feng, Secretary of the CPC Chinese Institute of Electronics Committee, and Guo Hao, President of the China Association of Communications Enterprises, attended the event, among others. Li Huidi, Executive Vice President of China Mobile attended the conference and delivered a speech.
Li Huidi pointed out that artificial intelligence is currently reshaping the ways of production and life with unprecedented speed and breadth, deeply restructuring the competitive landscape of global industries. AI is already the core engine driving the leap in social productivity and leading the transformation of the global industrial system. The overseas development of Chinese enterprises is undergoing a comprehensive upgrade from the traditional export of products and production capacity to the synergistic development of digital capabilities and industrial chains driven by AI.
Li Huidi stated that, in the face of a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, China Mobile is accelerating the transition from a “telecommunications operator” to a “technology services enterprise.” With the vision of building a world-class technology services enterprise, it comprehensively promotes the integrated innovation of communication technologies, information technologies, and AI technologies, in order to strengthen, optimize, and expand the three major businesses of “communications services, computing services, and AI services.” China Mobile will deeply integrate its AI capabilities into the entire chain of its three core businesses, paving a digital and intelligent highway for globalization, featuring the integration of networks and intelligence, safety and reliability, and universal access across all domains for Chinese enterprises going global:
First, China Mobile will strengthen communications services and empower “AI connectivity”, weaving a dense network of global intelligent interconnection. The scale of China Mobile’s international information infrastructure continues to grow. China Mobile have expanded the capacity of submarine and terrestrial cables, bringing total international transmission bandwidth to 406T and Points of Presence (PoPs) to 446. Notably, the eastern section of 2Africa, the largest submarine cable system in the world circling Africa, has been activated. The sections are expected to be completed and put into operation in the first half of this year. Spanning a total length of approximately 45,000 kilometers, this submarine cable is laid along the coastline of the African continent. It connects 33 countries and regions across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, providing high-quality, low-latency international communication services for a population of roughly 3 billion along its route. This major information artery, which connects six continents and four oceans, provides safe and reliable guarantees for end-to-end connections. It supports the scheduling of transnational AI applications and the integration of global business for enterprises going global. Global roaming is now available in 268 destinations, and the total number of users for the JegoTrip app has exceeded 90 million. China Mobile’s international ecological cooperation continues to expand, and the “Hand-in-Hand Program” covers over 3 billion users worldwide. China Mobile have consecutively hosted events such as the Southeast Asia Cooperation Conference and the China Mobile Digital Empowerment Cooperation Conferences for Chinese Enterprises Going Global. These events have been widely praised and have strengthened China Mobile’s influence within the global ecosystem. In recent years, China Mobile’s revenue from international business has consistently maintained a trend of high-speed, double-digit growth.
Second, China Mobile will optimize computing services and drive “AI Computing”, building a globally integrated computing network across the world.As a builder of computing infrastructure, China Mobile will comprehensively increase its investment in Artificial Intelligence Data Centers (AIDC), accelerate the supply of computing, and enhance its operational capabilities for Tokens. China Mobile’s 100-megawatt-level Global Intelligent Center (GIC) in Hong Kong has officially opened, and China Mobile will deploy more nodes for AI computing along the “Belt and Road” initiative in the future. China Mobile have already established a cluster for AI computing with a capacity of 92.5 EFLOPS in China. By linking this with over 1,300 resources from self-owned and cooperative data centers overseas, China Mobile are constructing a global network for computing. China Mobile will promote Mobile Cloud to integrate high-quality global models and streamline the service chain where “Agents use Tokens, Tokens drive Computing, and Computing consumes Electricity.” This will forge a solid foundation of computing for Chinese enterprises going global.
Third, China Mobile will expand AI services and reshape digital services, stimulating new momentum across all domains for enterprises going global.As a promoter of applications for artificial intelligence, China Mobile continuously iterates the capabilities of its “Jiutian” large model. China Mobile have accumulated industrial data exceeding 20 trillion Tokens and independently developed more than 50 industrial large models. This promotes the deep integration of AI agents into the entire process of production and operations for enterprises. Overseas, China Mobile translate its leading domestic AI capabilities into a “smart engine” for Chinese enterprises expanding abroad. Targeting the pain points of enterprises going global, China Mobile have tailored a “1+8” system of products and solutions for all scenarios, which has already served tens of thousands of Chinese enterprises in their global layout. By combining the advantages of Chinese manufacturing and 5G solutions, China Mobile achieve deep integration with local ecosystems overseas. In regions including Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific, and have successfully established over a thousand benchmark cases of “AI+” digital and intelligent transformation, such as smart factories, smart ports, and smart IoV. This makes the fruits of China’s innovation in AI benefit the global market.
Looking toward the vast blue ocean of the AI era, Li Huidi proposed four initiatives: First, China Mobile will jointly build AI infrastructure to forge a solid “new foundation” for AI+ global development. China Mobile will join hands with global industry partners to accelerate the construction of global communication networks, computing networks, and intelligent networks. China Mobile will jointly optimize the layout of global submarine and terrestrial cables as well as hubs for computing, achieving mutually beneficial cooperation along the “Belt and Road” initiative and around the world. By building more high-standard Artificial Intelligence Data Centers, China Mobile will provide low-latency, highly reliable, high-performance, and widely covered infrastructure of computing networks for Chinese enterprises marching into the world. Second, China Mobile will jointly establish AI standards to build a “new consensus” on intelligence within the industry. China Mobile will continue to promote China’s full-stack AI technologies and standards to the world, covering the entire chain of computing foundations, large models, and industrial applications. This will contribute Chinese wisdom, Chinese solutions, and Chinese standards to the construction of an open, inclusive, and interoperable system of global rules for AI technology. Third, China Mobile will jointly expand AI scenarios to release “new quality productive forces” across thousands of industries. China Mobile will continuously open up China Mobile’s technological foundation and experience in various scenarios, collaborating with enterprises going global to unearth high-value industrial scenarios. By providing exclusive resources for AI computing and support for Tokens, China Mobile will empower the accelerated release of new quality productive forces through AI innovation. In key regions along the “Belt and Road” initiative, China Mobile will create more replicable and promotable benchmark projects of “AI+” digital and intelligent transformation for overseas development. Fourth, China Mobile will jointly cultivate a win-win AI ecosystem to expand the “new circle of friends” for global cooperation. China Mobile will continuously upgrade the cooperative ecological system of the “iSTAR Program. Relying on the three core pillars of “AI+ applications, cloud and AI computing, and connectivity,” China Mobile will unite the strengths of global industries, academia, research, and application. This will help build a more open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial globalized digital and intelligent ecosystem. China Mobile will jointly incubate “AI+” solutions for overseas development across more than 150 scenarios, providing intelligent escorts across the entire chain and full life cycle for Chinese enterprises going global.
At the conference, using full-stack digital and intelligent capabilities to escort Chinese enterprises going global, China Mobile released a series of “AI+” full-stack digital and intelligent infrastructure, products, and services. Together with its ecological partners, China Mobile jointly released the “White Paper on the Digital and Intelligent Ecosystem of the China Mobile International ‘iSTAR Program’ for Chinese Enterprises Going-Global,” collaboratively building a new ecosystem for AI services.
Hashtag: #ChinaMobile
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
STOCKHOLM, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The climate crisis is one of the most urgent challenges of our time – and understanding it starts earlier than we might think. That belief sits at the core of Baseload’s children’s book series Our Hidden Powers, with its second book, The Big Switch, recently launched in Stockholm.
With The Big Switch, the story expands to address the shift away from fossil fuels. A new character, Fossi, represents fossil energy – both the role it has played in building modern society, and the consequences it has had for the climate.
The direction is clear: understanding the past is necessary to move forward.
“Fossil fuels are part of how we got here – but they are not part of the future we’re building. The goal of the book is to make that shift understandable for a younger audience, so that it becomes easier to act on,” says Baseload’s CMO and author, Kristina Hagström-Ilievska.
In practice, the book focuses on how that transition can happen. It explores how society can accelerate the shift by applying existing knowledge, technology, and experience to scale solutions like geothermal – making a complex system easier to understand, and act on.
That perspective is shared by Baseload’s CEO, Alexander Helling:
“This book is about helping children understand the system they are inheriting. If we want better decisions in the future, we need better understanding today. That starts with being honest about where we come from – and clear about where we’re going.”
The launch brought together industry professionals, partners, and families – creating a space for conversations about energy that rarely happen across generations.
As a company operating at the intersection of technology, investment, and energy, Baseload aims to contribute to a more informed conversation about the transition. By engaging younger generations while inviting broader dialogue, Our Hidden Powers: The Big Switch is part of that effort.
Print copies of Our Hidden Powers: The Big Switch are available across the EU, with wider availability expected soon. The e-book is also available for those who prefer a digital format.
English (web shop in Swedish, book content in English)
Fresh Laundry Ranked #37 Among the Fastest Growing Companies in Singapore by The Straits Times 2026
Compiled by The Straits Times and global research firm Statista, the annual Singapore business growth ranking evaluates companies based on revenue growth performance across a defined assessment period. Fresh Laundry’s placement among the high-growth companies in Singapore underscores its strong performance and growing influence in the laundromat sector.
Recognition in The Straits Times Singapore’s Fastest Growing Companies 2026
The Straits Times ranking identifies businesses that have achieved significant growth while demonstrating resilience and adaptability in Singapore’s competitive business environment. Companies included in the list represent diverse industries ranging from technology and logistics to consumer services.
Fresh Laundry’s position within this business growth ranking reflects its consistent expansion and operational development within the laundromat sector in Singapore. The company’s growth trajectory highlights increasing demand for modern, convenient laundry services as lifestyles evolve and urban living spaces prioritise efficiency and accessibility.
Being recognised as one of the fastest-growing companies in Singapore also signals the increasing relevance of service-driven businesses that address everyday needs through scalable models and operational innovation.
Growth of the Laundromat Industry in Singapore
The rise of the coin-operated laundry sector in Singapore has been shaped by changing urban lifestyles and the growing demand for convenient household services. Many households today value time-saving solutions that allow them to complete daily tasks efficiently.
Self-service laundry outlets provide a practical option for individuals and families seeking accessible washing and drying facilities without the need for large household appliances. This has contributed to steady growth in the sector, positioning laundromats as an essential service in densely populated cities.
Fresh Laundry’s inclusion among high-growth companies reflects how the industry continues to evolve to meet modern consumer expectations. By combining reliable machines, accessible locations, and streamlined operations, laundromats have become a key part of the neighbourhood service ecosystem.
Fresh Laundry’s Growth Journey
Fresh Laundry’s expansion over the years reflects a strategic focus on building a scalable and sustainable business model. From establishing reliable laundromat outlets to strengthening operational efficiency, the company has steadily developed its footprint across Singapore.
The brand’s progress within the urban self-service laundry segment in Singapore has been supported by careful planning, operational consistency, and an understanding of changing consumer needs. As demand for convenient laundry solutions continues to grow, Fresh Laundry has focused on maintaining quality while expanding its presence.
Being recognised as one of the fastest growing company in Singapore highlights the scalability of service-based businesses like Fresh Laundry, especially when driven by strong operational discipline, a focus on customer convenience, and carefully planned strategic expansion.
A Growing Interest in the Coin Laundry Industry
The growing popularity of laundromats has also sparked increasing interest in entrepreneurship within the sector. Many aspiring business owners are exploring opportunities in the coin laundry industry, recognising its potential as a service-oriented venture that caters to everyday needs.
As more individuals research starting a laundromat, industry visibility continues to grow. The sector’s accessibility and practical service offering have made it an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to enter a stable consumer services market.
Fresh Laundry’s presence among fast-expanding companies demonstrates how the laundromat sector has matured into a recognised segment of the local service economy.
Looking Ahead
Fresh Laundry’s inclusion in The Straits Times Singapore’s Fastest Growing Companies 2026 marks an important milestone in the company’s journey. As a recognised fastest-growing company in Singapore, the brand continues to strengthen its position within the laundromat sector in Singapore while supporting the broader development of the industry.
The recognition highlights not only Fresh Laundry’s growth, but also the continued evolution of neighbourhood services that support modern lifestyles. As the industry progresses, laundromats remain a vital part of urban living by providing accessible, convenient solutions for everyday needs.
For individuals interested in the sector, understanding the fundamentals of the coin laundry business and the considerations involved in getting started can provide valuable insights into how this everyday service has developed into a scalable and growing industry.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Fresh Laundry
Fresh Laundry is a Singapore-based laundromat operator focused on providing modern, convenient self-service laundry solutions for local communities. Operating within the growing laundromat sector, the company has built a network of coin-operated laundry outlets designed to support busy urban lifestyles with accessible washing and drying facilities.
Through a scalable and service-driven model, Fresh Laundry continues to expand its presence across neighbourhoods, supporting the increasing demand for reliable laundry services. The company also shares industry insights for individuals exploring opportunities in the coin laundry business or considering entering the laundromat market, reflecting its broader involvement in Singapore’s evolving self-service laundry ecosystem.
Fresh Laundry’s recent recognition in The Straits Times Singapore’s Fastest Growing Companies 2026 further highlights its progress as a fastest-growing company in Singapore, reinforcing its role within the country’s developing laundry services sector.
A picture of Laos’ Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone with a picture on the left is the hot air balloon entangled electric cable and hostel where methanol case occurred in Vang Vieng, Laos. (Photo by UNFPA, BBC, and ScandAsia)
Laos’ Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has called for stricter safety measures across Laos’ tourism sector, with a focus on high-risk and emerging activities, as concerns grow over recent incidents involving foreign visitors.
Speaking at the national meeting on culture and tourism on 7 April, Sonexay said safety must be treated as a top priority. He urged stronger oversight of tourism businesses and faster development of clear legal frameworks to better manage the sector.
He pointed to gaps in safety standards, particularly in food and beverage services and high-risk activities such as hot air balloons and paramotors, which require specific regulations.
The Prime Minister also called for better emergency systems, including clear communication, incident alerts, and multilingual support to assist foreign visitors. He stressed the need for closer coordination between sectors to quickly address issues that may affect tourism.
Tourism remains a key part of the economy, supporting income and local communities. In 2025, tourism-related activities, transport, and trade covered more than 36% of the country’s GDP.
With major tourism initiatives planned in the coming years like Laos-China Tourism Year 2027, Visit Laos Year 2029, and Laos-Vietnam Tourism Year 2030, authorities are under pressure to improve safety while maintaining growth.
Recent Incidents Raise Safety Concerns
The move comes amid rising concern over incidents in Vang Vieng.
Months later, families of the victims say they have received little information from authorities. They have raised concerns over a lack of communication and called for accountability, warning that stronger action is needed to protect future visitors.
The Lao government had pledged a full investigation at the time, but no charges or confirmed findings have been made public so far.
In a separate case, a hot air balloon carrying tourists struck high-voltage power lines during a sunset flight in Vang Vieng on 26 March.
Videos showed the balloon becoming entangled in cables as passengers panicked.
The incident caused a power outage affecting thousands of homes and businesses. No injuries were reported, but authorities have launched an investigation.
The incident came shortly after officials had temporarily suspended balloon and paramotor flights due to earlier safety concerns.
Tourism and Culture
At the same time, the Prime Minister stressed that tourism development should be linked closely with culture. He said Laos should not only preserve its cultural identity, but also turn it into meaningful experiences that visitors can engage with.