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Bus Overturns in Prachin Buri, Killing 18

Bus Overturns in Prachin Buri, Killing 17 and Injuring Over 40
Thai authorities investigate the accident scene (photo credit: MGR Online)

LATEST UPDATE BY AFP AT 10:49 AM

An accident occurred in Prachin Buri, Thailand, early on 26 February, when a tour bus on an educational field trip overturned while descending Khao San Tone mountain in Na Di district.

2025 MPA Awards to Honor “Wicked” Director, Key U.S. Lawmakers, and IPR Center

MPA Recognizes Chu with Creator Award, Sens. Thune and Coons and Rep. Issa with Industry Champion Awards, and IPR Center with Creative Protector Award

WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Motion Picture Association today announced it will honor Jon M. Chu, director of “Wicked” and the upcoming “Wicked: For Good,” with its 2025 MPA Creator Award.

In its fourth annual Awards program, the MPA will also recognize Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) with 2025 Industry Champion Awards. The association will present its 2025 Creative Protector Award to Ivan Arvelo, director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center).

“The MPA works to protect creativity, preserve free expression, and tell the stories of the world’s greatest storytellers – and this year’s honorees play a starring role in advancing our core mission and bringing the magic of cinema to life,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the MPA. “Our MPA Award recipients represent so many fundamental facets of filmmaking: the creative minds who produce movies, the policymakers who help make production possible, and the experts who defend intellectual property – the very lifeblood of our industry. I could not be prouder to recognize these leaders and their remarkable contributions.”

The MPA is recognizing Chu, an award-winning filmmaker and groundbreaking storyteller with deep, broad and growing influence on cultures and societies worldwide. Even before “Wicked” broke box office records and drew critical acclaim last year, Chu had built an inspiring body of work, including the films “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights.” His unique ability to tell rich, authentic stories resonates with audiences everywhere.

“Creators do more than make movies and TV shows. They build communities and bridge divides in ways that entertain, educate, inspire and move audiences wherever they live, work and watch great cinema. I’m honored to be part of the global creative community, and I’m grateful to the MPA for showcasing our many contributions,” said Chu.

Thune is receiving a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award in celebration of his longtime pragmatic leadership on policies that protect freedom for innovation, encourage competitive choice for consumers, and drive growth for the American economy. The film, television, and streaming industry continues evolving to meet audiences when, where, and how they want in no small part because of the smart policies championed by Senator Thune.

“It’s an honor to receive the Industry Champion Award from the MPA,” Thune said. “During my time in Washington, I have worked to ensure policies are put in place that encourage innovation and competitive choice for customers. I will continue to advocate for policies in the U.S. Senate that support a competitive media landscape and ensure consumers continue to benefit from this evolving industry.”

Coons is receiving a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award in honor of his extraordinary commitment to protecting intellectual property rights. Coons understands the cultural power and economic value of the film and television industry in the U.S. and across the globe, and he has worked to protect copyright from piracy as the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on Intellectual Property.

“It’s an honor to receive a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award for pursuing strong protections of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry,” said Coons. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made during my tenure as Chairman of the Senate’s Intellectual Property Subcommittee, including my NO FAKES Act to protect artists, entertainers, and musicians from unauthorized AI replicas. I will continue to work with my bipartisan cosponsors to pass NO FAKES and find new ways to safeguard intellectual property rights that promote economic growth and American innovation.”

Issa, chairman of the House Judiciary subcommittee on intellectual property, is receiving a 2025 MPA Industry Champion Award for his work to strengthen innovation, safeguard creative industries, and uphold the rights of creators and businesses alike.

“We are duty bound to allow the dreamers and leaders of our great American creative economy to reach the heights of their human potential – just as we must safeguard through effective policy solutions the innovations and inventions that are their gifts to the world,” Issa said. “I thank the MPA for its shared commitment and trusted partnership as we defend the sacred rights of those who drive discovery, breakthrough, and what comes next.”

Arvelo is receiving the 2025 MPA Creative Protector Award, which honors an individual or organization whose work has been vital to combating digital piracy. The IPR Center, which coordinates the U.S. government’s response to counterfeiting and intellectual property crimes, has been a vital partner to the MPA and its anti-piracy coalition, the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE).

“One of the IPR Center’s top priorities is combating digital piracy, which poses an existential threat to the creative community and the broader U.S. economy,” said Arvelo. “We are proud to stand with the MPA to safeguard intellectual property, and we are grateful to the association for recognizing the important work we do to protect this vital American industry.”

All 2025 honorees will attend the MPA Awards Ceremony later this year at the MPA’s global headquarters in Washington.

About The Motion Picture Association

The Motion Picture Association (MPA) serves as the leading voice and advocate of the motion picture, home video, and television industries. It works in every corner of the globe to advance the creative industry, protect its members’ content across all screens, defend the creative and artistic freedoms of storytellers, and support innovative distribution models that bring an expansion of viewing choices to audiences around the world. Its member studios are Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Charles Rivkin is Chairman and CEO.

Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven: Elevating Home Cooking with Cutting-Edge Technology

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Midea, a global leader in home appliances, is thrilled to unveil its latest innovation, the Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven, at the 2025 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). This next-generation kitchen appliance promises to revolutionize cooking experiences, offering advanced technology, unparalleled speed, and versatility—all in one elegant package.

The Midea Flexify™ Pro represents the latest and most advanced model in the Flexify™ series, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern home cooks. Building on the success of its predecessor, the Midea Flexify™ Classic, the Flexify™ Pro incorporates cutting-edge Graphene Heater Technology, which enables faster cooking, improved energy efficiency, and superior performance. With its sleek design and professional-grade capabilities, the Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven is set to become an essential addition to any kitchen.

Graphene Heater Technology for Unmatched Efficiency and Cooking Performance

At the heart of the Midea Flexify™ Pro’s innovation is Graphene Heater Technology, a breakthrough that enhances cooking efficiency. Graphene, a material known for its exceptional heat conductivity, has been integrated into the heating technology of the Flexify™ Pro. This advanced graphene technology enables heating up in just 0.2* seconds, significantly reducing preheating time and streamlining the cooking process. With no need to wait for preheating, users can quickly move on to preparing multiple dishes in succession, enhancing the overall cooking efficiency.

The graphene heating tubes generate temperatures 90% higher than conventional heating elements, allowing the oven cavity to heat up quickly and reach its optimal cooking temperature much faster. Whether preparing quick weeknight dinners, hosting family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead, the Flexify™ Pro guarantees that your meals are cooked faster, with exceptional results every time.

The 500°F high-temperature grilling capability allows users to achieve the perfect sear, making it ideal for grilling meats, vegetables, and other delicacies with a tender, juicy interior and crispy exterior.

 (*All data are from Midea Internal Lab.)

Versatility with 11 Cooking Functions

The Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven is equipped with 11 versatile cooking functions, making it a true all-in-one kitchen companion. Whether you want to air fry, bake, broil, grill, roast, or dehydrate, this oven does it all. The Flexify™ Pro’s multifunctional design ensures that home cooks can prepare a wide range of dishes, from healthy air-fried snacks to gourmet meals, all with one appliance.

The 11 cooking functions include:

  1. Air Fry – Fry foods with little to no oil for a healthier option.
  2. Bake – Perfect for baking cakes, breads, casseroles, and more.
  3. Broil – Ideal for achieving a crisp, golden-brown finish on meats and vegetables.
  4. Grill  – Enjoy grilled meals without the need for an outdoor grill, with the ability to reach up to 500°F for ultra-high-temperature searing.
  5. Roast – Perfect for roasting meats, poultry, and vegetables.
  6. Reheat – Gently reheat leftovers without compromising flavor or texture.
  7. Slow Cook – Ideal for preparing tender, slow-cooked meals like stews and soups.
  8. Dehydrate – Preserve fruits, vegetables, and homemade snacks with ease.
  9. Pizza – Create a crispy, restaurant-quality pizza in the comfort of your home.
  10. Toast – Achieve perfectly toasted bread, bagels, and more.
  11. Warm – Keep your food at the perfect temperature until ready to serve.

With its versatile functions, the Flexify™ Pro eliminates the need for multiple kitchen gadgets, streamlining the cooking process and making it easier for users to create their favorite meals with minimal effort.

Elegant Design with User-Friendly Features

The Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven not only offers exceptional performance but also boasts an elegant and modern design. The premium stainless steel exterior, combined with a sleek digital control panel, complements any kitchen décor while offering intuitive usability. The 25L cooking capacity provides ample space to prepare meals for the entire family, making it perfect for everyday cooking, entertaining, and meal prepping.

The Flexify™ Pro is designed with ease of use in mind. The integrated digital control panel offers clear, easy-to-read settings, while the premium enamel interior ensures effortless cleaning after every use. The smooth, non-stick surface prevents grease and food residue from sticking, reducing the time spent on maintenance and ensuring that the appliance remains in top condition.

Perfect for Modern Kitchens and Active Lifestyles

With its combination of speed, versatility, and efficiency, the Midea Flexify™ Pro is an ideal choice for busy families, home cooks, and anyone looking to simplify their kitchen routine. The 25L capacity is perfect for preparing family-sized meals, while the 11-in-1 functionality ensures that the oven can handle all types of cooking tasks. Whether you’re air frying crispy snacks, roasting meats, baking pizzas, or reheating leftovers, the Flexify™ Pro can do it all—quickly and efficiently.

The compact design of the Flexify™ Pro ensures that it fits seamlessly into any kitchen, while the sleek stainless-steel finish adds a touch of sophistication. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a holiday feast, the Flexify™ Pro offers the flexibility and performance to handle it all.

Coming Soon in Fall 2025

The Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven will be available for purchase in Fall 2025 for $219. With its state-of-the-art technology, multifunctional design, and sleek, modern aesthetic, the Flexify™ Pro is set to become the go-to appliance for anyone looking to elevate their cooking experience.

Midea continues to innovate with appliances that not only meet the needs of today’s home cooks but also provide solutions that improve everyday life. With the Flexify™ Pro, Midea brings professional-level cooking to your kitchen, making it easier than ever to create delicious, perfectly cooked meals in less time.

For more information about the Midea Flexify™ Pro Air Fryer Oven and other products of the Flexify™ series, visit https://www.midea.com/us/small-kitchen-appliances/toaster-ovens or attend the KBIS 2025 exhibition for an exclusive first look at this groundbreaking product.

About Midea Group

Midea Group is a global technology leader specializing in five key business areas: Smart Home, Industrial and Building Technologies, Robotics and Automation, Electro-Mechanical, and Digital Innovation. As one of over 10 brands within Midea Group’s smart home appliance business, Midea has established itself as a prominent force in the industry. Founded in 1968, Midea Group is ranked #277 on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 with 190,000+ employees worldwide.

Visit: www.midea-group.com 

For Media Inquiries:

Contact:
Lokman Zhou
okman.zhou@midea.com 

Jessie Wang
wangrong15@midea.com

 

LOYALTY PROGRAMS AND THE CURRENCY EFFECT

Global Experts Reveal the Hidden Mechanics of Loyalty Currencies and How Businesses Can Profit from Them

SINGAPORE, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A groundbreaking new book, Loyalty Programs and the Currency Effect, is set to transform how businesses view the potential of loyalty programs. Written by global loyalty experts Evert de Boer and Xiao Yao Chin, the book unravels the dynamics of loyalty currencies  – considered by many as a “black box”  – and reveals how companies can harness them for financial success.

“Loyalty points are more than just rewards – they have become a global financial force,” the authors explain. “Each year, an estimated $300 billion worth of new points is issued. When combined with existing balances, loyalty currencies would rank as the world’s third-largest virtual reserve, trailing only the U.S. Dollar and Euro.”

Despite their scale and profitability, loyalty programs are still largely viewed as traditional marketing tools. The book challenges this perspective by introducing a new framework that highlights how businesses can strategically manage loyalty currencies to unlock various sources of value creation, ranging from measurable bottom-line contributions to enhanced enterprise valuations.

“Our aim was to provide a comprehensive guide to all facets of loyalty currencies,” say de Boer and Chin. “We introduce the ‘currency effect’ – the value that can be unlocked by optimally managing a loyalty currency. Our book provides both a strategic framework and practical insights, helping industry stakeholders maximize the potential of their programs.”

Drawing from their extensive experience advising the world’s top loyalty programs, the authors offer a behind-the-scenes look at how points work, how they generate profits, and how businesses can leverage them for competitive advantage.

Loyalty Programs and the Currency Effect is now available for purchase. For more information, visit www.thecurrencyeffect.com 

About the authors:

Evert de Boer is a Managing Partner at On Point Loyalty, Singapore, and CEO at Fidivio. He has re­searched and worked in loyalty strategy since 2000, providing strategic guidance to leading companies globally, including more than 40 airlines. Evert has published numerous articles and white papers on loyalty strategy and finance, including the Harvard Business Review. He is the author of Strategy in Airline Loyalty (Palgrave Macmillan, 2017).

Xiao Yao Chin is a Partner at On Point Loyalty, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Her loyalty experience spans program design, strategic planning, member analytics and program valuations. Prior to joining On Point Loyalty, Xiao Yao worked for AirAsia’s loyalty program and contributed to various strategic projects for top financial institutions at Bain & Company in Southeast Asia. She holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge, UK.

Two-Thirds of Employees in Singapore Considering Changing Employers Within the Next 12 Months, Aon Study Finds

  • 65 percent of employees are willing to sacrifice existing benefits for a better choice of benefits
  • 45 percent agree that their compensation is fair compared to similar roles

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today released results from its 2025 Human Capital Employee Sentiment Study. The global study of more than 9,000 employees across 23 geographies, including the U.S., China, India and Australia, found that two-thirds of employees in Singapore are considering changing employers.

Aon’s study found 60 percent of employees globally might or will seek new employment in the next 12 months, revealing widespread dissatisfaction with their current job. This percentage is even higher in Singapore, at 67 percent, underscoring the urgency for Singaporean businesses to adapt their Human Capital strategies to meet the evolving expectations of its workforce.

With 21 percent of Singapore employees feeling undervalued compared to 13 percent globally, employers should ensure a consistent and continual investment in their employees to help mitigate workload pressures and retain their brightest talent.

“In a competitive market, it is imperative businesses build a fair and equitable workplace in which employees are rewarded for their efforts and results. Employers in Singapore must rethink their total rewards strategy to address both professional and personal needs,” said Rahul Chawla, partner and head of Talent Solutions for southeast Asia at Aon. “Designing a holistic employee value proposition that recognises unique work motivations utilising data and analytics will help build a resilient workforce and enhance the employee experience.”

Top 5 Most Influential Characteristics Attracting Employees in Singapore

IMG 5925

“Although the expectation of above-average pay might be a key driver for employees leaving organisations, the survey also indicates a trust issue with less than half of participants feel their compensation is fair and more than a third lack confidence that their employer ensures pay equality regardless of gender. Employers therefore must do a lot more to ascertain their market positioning and communicate it confidently to build trust in the process,” added Chawla.

The top five valued benefits for the Singapore workforce are:

  1. Medical coverage
  2. Paid time off
  3. Work-life balance programs
  4. Flexible benefits
  5. Career development


Top employee expectations for Singapore

  • 44 percent say employers should support employee wellbeing.
  • 24 percent say employers should support with eldercare or family care.
  • 24 percent say employers should help employees save for retirement/long term needs.


Medical coverage and paid time off were top valued benefits

Medical Coverage and Paid Time Off were in the top five valued benefits for the Singapore workforce. While paid time off was the top valued benefit by Gen Y and Gen Z, medical coverage was rated highly by Gen X and Baby Boomers, indicating the need for employers to address the needs of an ageing workforce with integrated medical and wellbeing coverage. Interestingly, 65 percent of employees are willing to sacrifice the value of existing benefits for a better choice of benefits.

Work-life balance, personalised benefits and flexible working have also become more important for Singapore’s workforce.

“Employee benefits are so much more than programs and initiatives; they are a long-term people and performance strategy, driving business goals over a sustained period,” said Alan Oates, head of Global Benefits for Asia Pacific at Aon. “It is interesting that almost two-third of the employees would be willing to sacrifice the value of existing benefits for a better choice of benefits. In this challenging cost environment, we are successfully using flexibility and personalised benefits to better match employee needs and balance cost. Understanding employee expectations through data-driven insights coupled with leadership support are critical factors in creating an innovative benefits strategy that can positively impact attracting and retaining talent.”

Technological disruptions and innovation necessitate ongoing skill development among employees. In Singapore, 29 percent of employees are not confident that their employers are investing in their skills development and training for future work needs, compared to 17 percent globally. Additionally, 13 percent of employees in Singapore are uncertain about the impact of AI on their jobs, compared to 15 percent globally. Meanwhile, 35 percent of employees are motivated to develop new AI skills to remain relevant both globally and in Singapore.

Read Aon’s Human Capital Employee Sentiment Study here.
Hashtag: #Aon

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

About Aon

(NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses.

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Disclaimer
The information contained in this document is solely for information purposes, for general guidance only and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although Aon endeavours to provide accurate and timely information and uses sources that it considers reliable, the firm does not warrant, represent or guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or fitness for any purpose of any content of this document and can accept no liability for any loss incurred in any way by any person who may rely on it. There can be no guarantee that the information contained in this document will remain accurate as on the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or entity should make decisions or act based solely on the information contained herein without appropriate professional advice and targeted research.

Risen Achieves 30.99% Efficiency with HJT-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells!

NINGBO, China, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Breaking new ground in solar innovation! Risen’s HJT (Heterojunction Technology), when combined with a perovskite cell in a tandem structure, has achieved an impressive 30.99% efficiency!

This milestone not only solidifies Risen’s technological leadership but also paves the way for higher performance, lower LCOE (Levelized Cost of Energy), and greener solar solutions in the global energy transition.

What Are Tandem Solar Cells?
In tandem solar cells, different materials possess distinct bandgap energies, enabling them to absorb light of varying wavelengths. The upper-layer materials (such as perovskite) absorb high-energy short-wavelength light (e.g., blue and ultraviolet light), while the lower-layer materials (such as silicon) capture low-energy long-wavelength light (e.g., red and infrared light), thereby reducing energy waste.

The theoretical efficiency ceiling for single-junction cells is about 33% (Shockley-Queisser limit), whereas tandem structures with multiple junctions can elevate this limit to over 44%.

Why Are HJT-Perovskite Tandem Cells Game-Changers?

  • Highest Efficiency Potential and Lower Degradation
    HJT cells already achieve top efficiencies and lower power degradation due to aging and temperature among commercial solar technologies, making them the ideal base for tandem integration.
  • Better Electrical Connectivity
    HJT cells use Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) as a transparent conductive layer, unlike BC, TOPCon, and PERC technologies, which rely on insulating layers. This simplifies the connection between stacked cells, improving overall performance.
  • Sustainable Manufacturing
    HJT solar cells exhibit a lower carbon footprint, reduced material consumption, and lower energy and water usage during production, demonstrating significant environmental benefits and positioning them as a more sustainable photovoltaic technology.
  • 100% Production Line Compatibility
    Existing HJT cell production lines feature forward-looking technological compatibility, enabling direct integration of perovskite cell equipment without requiring modifications. Through modular equipment expansion, co-production of perovskite and silicon-based cells can be achieved on the same line while maintaining existing operations. This approach safeguards prior investments and maximizes production line utilization.
  • Breakthroughs in Module Technology
    Risen’s Hyper-Link low-temperature stress-free interconnection technology overcomes limitations of traditional module encapsulation processes:
    • Low-temperature processing (<150°C) aligns with perovskite materials' thermal sensitivity.
    • Stress-free lamination ensures structural integrity of thin-film architectures.
    • Multi-junction cell series connection efficiency can exceed 28%, driving next-generation photovoltaic performance.

Perovskite Challenges: The Road to Commercialization
Despite their advantages, perovskite technology still faces critical hurdles:

  • Durability Gap: Current perovskite cells degrade rapidly under UV exposure and humidity (lifespan <5 years vs. silicon’s 30+ years). Risen is pioneering nano-encapsulation and self-healing materials to address this issue.
  • Manufacturing Complexity: Maintaining perovskite film uniformity at scale requires advanced deposition techniques.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Risen Energy?
Risen is already translating lab success into real-world impact:

  • First 730W HJT Module Delivery: In January 2025, Risen completed a 100MW shipment of HJT Hyper-ion Pro 730W modules to Spain—the world’s first 730W+ project deployment.
  • 2025 Roadmap:
    • HJT module power → 740W (cell efficiency 26.8%)
    • Tandem pilot production → 800W prototypes
  • 2027 Vision: Launch 850W+ perovskite tandem modules with <0.25% annual degradation.

Strategic Partnership Between INCUBASE Studio and TORICO: New Synergy in the Asian and Global Anime Market

HONG KONG, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Anime experience curation company INCUBASE Studio has announced a strategic alliance with the listed Japanese company TORICO. This partnership seeks to leverage the strengths of both companies to promote Japanese anime works and culture throughout Asia and globally. Together, they are set to create new entertainment experiences that resonate with anime enthusiasts around the world.

TORICO operates across a diverse range of businesses, including various e-commerce platforms for manga, manga publishing, offline events and themed venues. The company has successfully hosted over 300 manga-related events throughout Japan. Through this collaboration with INCUBASE Studio, TORICO aims to further expand its reach into markets beyond Japan.

INCUBASE Studio brings a wealth of expertise in curating and organizing IP-themed experiences, backed by a robust network of partners throughout Asia and internationally. The studio is known for crafting immersive events that cater to local cultures, successfully hosting numerous touring exhibitions in vibrant cities like Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Hangzhou in Mainland China. In addition, INCUBASE Studio has set up its own anime cultural experience hub, INCUBASE Arena, alongside a retail store, INCUShop, which significantly broadens the availability of Japanese anime works, merchandise and food and beverage experiences across Hong Kong, East Asia, Southeast Asia and beyond.

 Based in Hong Kong, INCUBASE Studio has expanded its presence with studios in Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei. The company has launched INCUBASE Arena in both Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, fostering a vibrant community for anime lovers. Looking ahead, INCUBASE Studio plans to gradually expand into other Southeast Asian markets, mainland China, as well as regions in the Middle East, Europe and the United States. Since its founding in Hong Kong in 2021, the studio has been dedicated to developing and promoting unique touring experiences that transcend traditional attractions. By creating meticulously designed scenes, interactive installations and delicate details, INCUBASE Studio strives to deliver captivating and unforgettable experiences for anime fans.

Following the strategic business alliance, INCUBASE Studio is set to launch its first collaborative project, “Our Youth” Pop-up Store – its first-ever pop-up in Hong Kong. The pop-up store will run from March 2 to April 6 at the new INCUBASE Arena located in Mong Kok’s Chong Hing Square. This BL series, adapted from a Korean comic into a Japanese drama, beautifully captures the nuances of first love and has received widespread acclaim. Visitors can look forward to an array of photos from the show, the original comic, and a selection of official Japanese merchandise.

Both INCUBASE Studio and TORICO share a common vision of enriching people’s lives through engaging and memorable experiences. In the future, they plan to introduce a variety of anime experiences and special projects, including the design and customization of exclusive merchandise, which will be released simultaneously in Japan and other regions. This collaboration will provide various touchpoints for anime lovers and create exciting new anime entertainment experiences across Asia, including Japan and Hong Kong, and around the world.

About INCUBASE Studio

INCUBASE Studio curates diverse IP-themed exhibition experiences that celebrate and connect fandoms worldwide. The Studio brings stories to life by blending captivating content with engaging installations and interactive devices. Since its establishment in Hong Kong in 2021, INCUBASE Studio has been committed to realising and promoting Touring Experiences across Asia, pushing the boundaries of physical venues and experiences.

In 2024, INCUBASE Studio established INCUBASE Arena in Hong Kong and Malaysia as hubs for Japanese anime culture and entertainment experiences, continuously hosting a variety of popular anime IP exhibitions and related events to build a vibrant community for anime fans in both regions and the surrounding areas.

www.incubasestudio.com 

ZIM Launches Employer Branding Campaign in Hong Kong

HONG KONG, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. , a global leader in shipping and logistics, announced the launch of an Employer Brand Campaign in Hong Kong. Following a very successful campaign launched in the US in November 2024, the current initiative aims at attracting top talent to ZIM’s regional office in Asia. The campaign will showcase ZIM’s corporate culture and the values that make it a unique and dynamic workplace within this vital and impactful industry so central to Hong Kong and the entire region.


While ZIM ranks 9th globally, its market share in the Transpacific trade is significantly higher than its global share, and the company is an important player in this crucial global trade lane, underscoring the need to attract high-quality talent to meet the substantial demands in this region.

In the week leading up to the campaign, an internal launch event was held, involving a diverse range of employees who shared their career paths within the company. Employees and managers discussed the company’s efforts to operate according to its values, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Notably, ZIM’s green ships, which now make up half of the fleet in Transpacific trade, were highlighted as a key component of the company’s portfolio.

Campaign Platforms and Focus

The campaign slogan, “Explore your potential. Be The Z Factor,” reflects ZIM’s recognition of the importance of its employer brand in attracting skilled individuals who align with the company’s ethos and culture. The campaign is based on messages developed through extensive research and direct input from current ZIM employees. By reflecting the voices of its team, ZIM’s new initiative aims to connect authentically with prospective employees who share its commitment to excellence and the distinctive Z Factor spirit.

The campaign aims to inform potential candidates about ZIM and why it is an excellent option for career development in the global economy and the dynamic and fast-paced shipping industry.

The campaign leverages various recruitment platforms, including social media, job search websites, and other channels to invite potential employees to join ZIM, with a focus on roles in customer service, sales, and other key positions supporting its rapidly growing global shipping services. It also aims to inform potential candidates about ZIM and why it is an excellent option for career development in a global industry.

Arik Elimelech, ZIM EVP HR and Organization, said, “As ZIM continues to grow and develop new services, we are excited to strengthen our brand and attract individuals who are ready to help us achieve our vision. This campaign is a meaningful step in building our team in Hong Kong, ensuring that we bring in not only the best talent but also those who genuinely identify with our culture and values. Our team is our strongest asset, and with their enthusiasm and dedication, I am confident this campaign will have a lasting impact.”

Yifat Ginzberg, ZIM Chief Marketing Officer, said: “We are applying marketing methodologies to our global recruitment efforts, using integrated metrics to measure both the immediate effectiveness of the campaign and long-term recruitment outcomes. By effectively communicating the company’s values and unique cultural principles, we succeed in recruiting employees who fit well and thrive within the company.”

ZIM’s Employer Brand Campaign is part of the company’s commitment to fostering a workplace where values, collaboration, and growth come together. ZIM is eager to welcome new talent and continue expanding its global impact, delivering innovative solutions across the shipping and logistics industry.

About ZIM

Founded in Israel in 1945, ZIM (NYSE: ZIM) is a leading global container liner shipping company with established operations in more than 90 countries serving approximately 33,000 customers in over 300 ports worldwide. ZIM leverages digital strategies and a commitment to ESG values to provide customers innovative seaborne transportation and logistics services and exceptional customer experience. ZIM’s differentiated global-niche strategy, based on agile fleet management and deployment, covers major trade routes with a focus on select markets where the company holds competitive advantages. Additional information about ZIM is available at www.ZIM.com.

ZIM Contacts:

Avner Shats
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd.
+972-4-865-2520
media@zim.com

Yifat Ginzberg
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd.
+972-4-865-2249
media@zim.com