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AS Watson Accelerates Supply Chain Sustainability Efforts to Fight Climate Change


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 July 2024 – AS Watson, the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer, has accelerated its sustainability efforts in its global supply chain by transitioning its delivery fleet to electric vehicles and launching initiatives in waste reduction to fight climate change.

https://bit.ly/4cY60CS

According to Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson, “As a responsible global retailer, sustainability is at the heart of our business. We’ve been investing and innovating to reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future. Our latest initiative focuses on making the delivery fleet of our supply chain more environmentally friendly. We operate 12 retail brands in our global portfolio, and 60% of them have started using electric vehicles for some of the warehouse-to-store and online order deliveries. While the adoption of electric vehicles is slow in the industry, I believe that we should take on the challenge to launch this initiative in as many markets as possible.”

Ngai added, “Electric vehicles have limited driving range per charge, and insufficient charging infrastructure, which makes long-haul deliveries challenging. Additionally, the current technology solutions to reduce charging times and enhance overall performance are not yet widely available. These constraints result in difficulties for some of our operating markets to broadly deploy electric vehicles. We remain committed to overcoming these obstacles and transitioning our delivery fleet to more sustainable electric options wherever possible.”

A recent survey[1] showed global direct carbon dioxide emissions from heavy and medium-duty trucks increased by 2.4% to 1.8 billion metric tons (GtCO₂) in 2022, and they were responsible for around 25% of global transportation CO₂ emissions. The use of battery electric vehicles can help alleviate the issues as they emit at least 63% less CO₂ emissions than a comparable diesel vehicle[2].

AS Watson has accelerated its efforts in adopting electric vehicles in its global delivery fleet. The progress of Watsons China is significant, with electric vehicles now accounting for over 80% of all warehouse-to-store deliveries on average in the cities of Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Chongqing and Xiamen.

For online order deliveries, Superdrug, Savers and ICI PARIS XL have started using electric vans and e-Cargo bikes in Central London and 13 emission-free zones in the Netherlands respectively. Additionally, Watsons China, Singapore and Taiwan have introduced electric vans and motorbikes for their country-wide online order deliveries.

Meanwhile, Superdrug, Savers, Kruidvat and Trekpleister have also started to shift towards using greener fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG), which generate less carbon emissions compared to traditional diesel fuel.

Driving Positive Change Through Waste Reduction

In addition to the electrification of its delivery fleet, AS Watson has made significant progress in waste reduction in its supply chain globally, successfully diverting over 95% of warehouse waste from landfills. Furthermore, AS Watson has also reduced the use of virgin plastics in its online business packaging by 50% year-on-year, demonstrating its commitment to more sustainable packaging solutions.

Ngai added, “We will continue our journey towards supply chain sustainability. We expect to see increasing adoption of electric vehicles and the introduction of more waste reduction initiatives to help create a more sustainable world. At AS Watson, sustainability is not a slogan, but a culture that every one of our 130,000 colleagues globally embrace every day. Only by working together, we can create a truly significant impact on the planet.”


[1] Source: Statista – Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from medium and heavy-duty freight trucks worldwide from 2000 to 2022

Hashtag: #ASWatson

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

Agridence Develops Platform for GPSNR’s Reporting Requirements (RR) 

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 July 2024 – Agridence developed a digital platform specifically for the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) Reporting Requirements (RR) with the aim of simplifying the process of sustainability data reporting, collection and aggregation for the natural rubber value chain. When the exercise was first introduced to GPSNR members in 2022, a major tire maker reached out to Agridence to develop a solution to improve the reporting process and make data consolidation and aggregation easier. In 2023, two more major tire manufacturers started to use the tool.

Reporting Requirements Supplier Submissions Dashboard

In previous years, some GPSNR members expressed concerns about the redundant efforts required to generate reports for multiple downstream customers, who requested the reports in different formats.
As a solution, Agridence was appointed by GPSNR as a service provider and developed an online form for users to log in, work on the form, and submit it with a click of a button. Data will then be consolidated in a consistent format to reduce efforts in re-formatting data into a single file for data aggregation.
“Agridence has developed an intuitive digital form that consolidates the reporting process onto one efficient platform. We hope this will help in ensuring a smooth data collection process without duplication and multiple formats. Their ongoing commitment to enhancing usability and meeting our members’ needs have made the collaboration fruitful,” said GPSNR Platform Director Stefano Savi.

In 2024, Agridence has upgraded its product for use, by GPSNR and all its members to further streamline the reporting process. Through this exercise, the platform provides suppliers and upstream companies with the following key features:

  1. Prefilling of data to copy and paste the same response to the respective recipients, reducing any duplicated efforts for reporting
  2. Ensuring data confidentiality in the users’ responses
  3. Allowing members to manage and assign their upstream suppliers with the relevant forms
  4. User-friendly and intuitive form to capture data easier than an excel sheet
  5. Submission tracking dashboard, to allow members to monitor the progress of their suppliers’ submissions and download their responses

“Using Agridence’s Reporting Requirements product has enhanced our sustainability reporting efficiency, allowing us to streamline our data collection process”, stated Sumitomo, an RR user.

As part of Agridence’s service agreement with GPSNR, only selected GPSNR Secretariat staff can access the data, in accordance with the permission settings set by GPSNR.
“As a former user of this platform feature in my previous role, I experienced its significant benefits first-hand. I am delighted that GPSNR has adopted the RR product, and I am confident it will deliver substantial value to its members.” said Ulrich Antoni, Managing Director, ARPL.

As an ISO 27001-certified company, Agridence has set precautionary measures to maintain the integrity of the data in line with security policies and data confidentiality to prevent the misuse of the data.

Hashtag: #Agridence #GPSNR #Data #Sustainability #Innovative #Technology #Platform #Rubber


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

Agridence

Founded and based in Singapore, Agridence brings you the future of commodities trading. We are at the forefront of digitalising the agri-commodities supply chain across the globe to create a data-enriched and technology-powered ecosystem. This digital transformation enables deeper analysis of the supply chain to uncover environmental, social and financial risks allowing targeted interventions.

At Agridence, we use technology to enable data transparency and strengthen trust. We provide industry intelligence and insights to empower our customers to make smarter decisions. We strive to identify issues and deliver solutions that will redefine how commodities are produced and traded.

For more information, please visit:
Media Contact: info@agridence.com

Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR)

The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) is an international membership driven platform set up to define sustainability for the natural rubber value chain. It brings together various stakeholders to a common ground based on fairness, equity and environmental sustainability. Membership is diverse and is open to everyone in the natural rubber industry. 60% of the world’s natural rubber demand already finds membership in the GPSNR.
Media Contact: Bani Bains (bani.bains@gpsnr.org)

Flights Without Limits: Switzerland, Laos Forge New Air Services Deal

Photo supplied by the Swiss Cooperation Office and Consular Agency in Laos

Switzerland and Laos have signed a new bilateral agreement on scheduled air services. Finalized on 26 July, the document replaces the outdated accord from 15 December 1999 and introduces modern provisions that boost operational flexibility for airlines.

This allows airlines from both countries greater freedom in their operations. Airlines can now be designated without numerical restrictions, paving the way for more carriers to enter the market and increasing the frequency and variety of flights available to travelers. Also, the agreement authorizes code-share flights, enabling airlines to offer tickets on each other’s flights, thereby expanding the range of destinations accessible to passengers.

One of the most notable features of the agreement is the right granted to designated airlines to operate direct flights without frequency limitations. This development is expected to streamline travel between Switzerland and Laos, making it more convenient for tourists, businesses, and cargo shipments. The enhanced connectivity is set to develop closer economic ties, boosting tourism, trade, and investment between the two nations.

The agreement will come into force once both countries have completed their respective legal formalities and exchanged diplomatic notes confirming this.


Information provided by the Swiss Cooperation Office and Consular Agency in Laos

Lao Boxer Sets Sights on Muay Thai Victory at ONE Friday Fights

Lao Boxer Sets Sights on Muay Thai Victory at ONE Friday Fights
Lao boxer Phetnamkhong Mongkolphet, 20, who trains at

Lao boxer Phetnamkhong Mongkolphet, 20, is set to compete against Thailand’s Lookkwan Sujibamikiew in the ONE Friday Fights at the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok at 7:30 pm on 26 July.

smart Aims to Make Premium EVs Ubiquitous in Singapore

Driving Towards a Greener Future in Style

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 July 2024 – smart, a market leader in premium, intelligent, all-electric cars, is set to transform Singapore’s automotive landscape in 2024. Led by a vision for widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), smart’s range of high-end, compact, all-electric SUVs is a showcase of modern cutting-edge innovation, paired with an unwavering focus on the unique demands of urban drivers.

Designed by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design team, the all-new compact SUV smart #1 features impressive acceleration and range, while providing a driving experience that rivals other premium cars.
Designed by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design team, the all-new compact SUV smart #1 features impressive acceleration and range, while providing a driving experience that rivals other premium cars.

Growing EV Car Market in Singapore

In recent years, the Singapore government has incentivised the purchase and ownership of electric cars through tax reductions and subsidies. With 26 years of experience in answering contemporary mobility needs, smart is well-positioned to cater to the growing local demand for all-electric SUVs in Singapore, with SUVs being the most popular body type for vehicles in Singapore.

smart’s partnership with Cycle & Carriage (C&C) as its general distributor in 2024 allows the automobile brand to leverage C&C’s expertise in the green mobility ecosystem. which includes electric car sales and aftersales, e-logistics, and other green mobility solutions. This robust foundation firmly establishes smart’s trajectory for accelerated growth and success in the Singapore market.

Growing Consumer Demand
A research study conducted in June 2023 by C&C revealed that 67% of existing combustion engine car owners are looking to sell their current vehicles by 2025, and switch to hybrid or all-electric cars. The study also found that younger, more affluent, car owners with higher levels of education were more likely to purchase an EV in Singapore.

Understanding the mindset of potential EV owners allows C&C and smart to stay ahead of trends, and perfectly positions the joint partnership to capitalise on this growing segment of early adopters and EV enthusiasts in Singapore.

The smart #1: Innovative Award-Winning Electric Car in Singapore
Designed by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design team, the all-new compact SUV smart #1 features impressive acceleration and range, while providing a driving experience that rivals other premium cars. Characterised by advanced technologies, the smart #1 is integrated with next-generation battery technologies and powertrain systems that redefine the standards of electric mobility.

The unique architecture of the smart #1 gives a whole new sensation of space inside the cabin, with adjustable rear seats, ambient lights, and a floating centre console that creates an intimate living room feel. Frameless doors and a floating halo roof complete the human-centric design philosophy, that has been honoured with both the prestigious 2023 Red Dot Award for Product Design, and the iF Design Award in the Product – Automobiles/Vehicles category, solidifying its position as an exciting entrant into the fast-growing premium EV car market in Singapore.

The new smart showroom, expected to be ready by Q3 2024, will be housed on level 3 of the Mercedes-Benz Center, located at 301 Alexandra Road. Customers looking to have a first-hand look at the smart #1 model and perform test drives of the smart #1 all-electric SUV range can do so via roving roadshows around Singapore after its launch.

Comprehensive Aftersales Service Catalogue

smart is committed to providing a seamless and worry-free ownership experience, offering a comprehensive suite of aftersales services designed to exceed customer expectations and deliver Exceptional Journeys. From routine maintenance and convenient software updates, to reliable roadside assistance and extended warranties, smart’s aftersales support is tailored to meet the special needs of EV owners in Singapore.

By setting a high standard for aftersales services and caring for customers beyond the point of the new car purchase, smart aims to ease the transition towards EV adoption for those new to EVs, ensuring that they feel supported and confident throughout their ownership journey. As countries worldwide transition to a more sustainable future on the roads, smart hopes to lead the charge in Singapore, paving the way for a reality where EVs are not just an eco-friendly option, but the preferred choice of drivers.

A Partnership Built For Success
With a heritage and presence in Singapore that stretches well over a century, C&C is a leading automotive distributor group in Southeast Asia. As the exclusive dealer of Mercedes-Benz in Singapore, C&C has a highly experienced operations team along with well-established sales and aftersales channels for electric cars.

By choosing to partner with C&C in 2024, smart aims to rapidly integrate itself into the modern Singaporean EV car market and meet expectations of local fans while simultaneously furthering its global brand development and expansion strategy. For C&C, smart is an excellent new addition to an already well-diversified portfolio.

Mr. Xiangbei Tong, Global CEO of smart said, “We are delighted to announce our plan to expand smart’s business network in Singapore and the partnership with Cycle & Carriage. With extensive business network and abundant industry experience in the local market, Cycle & Carriage is an ideal partner to drive the region into the all-electric era together with smart.”

Hashtag: #smart





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

About Cycle & Carriage Singapore & smart Automobile Co., Ltd.

At Cycle & Carriage, we are passionate about creating people-focused experiences and exceptional journeys. Founded in 1899 in Kuala Lumpur, we are now a leading regional automotive group in Southeast Asia. Cycle & Carriage distributes, retails, and provides aftersales services for passenger cars as well as commercial vehicles in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar. Cycle & Carriage is a member of the Jardine Cycle & Carriage Group.

From passenger cars and commercial vehicles to used cars, Cycle & Carriage Singapore is one of the most diversified automotive groups in the country. With a network of six showrooms and service centres, and representing world-class brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Kia, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Maxus, ORA, Republic Auto, BYD Forklifts, and now, smart. We are committed to supporting our customers every step of the way. At Cycle & Carriage Singapore, we are also dedicated to enabling our people to follow their best paths. We have been one of HR Asia’s ‘Best Companies to Work For’ since 2015.

Cycle & Carriage Singapore:

About smart Automobile

smart Automobile Co., Ltd. is a 50/50 joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. The joint venture creates synergy to turn smart into a leading provider of premium and connected electric vehicles.

Established in 2019, smart Automobile Co., Ltd. combines the strengths of both shareholders by bringing in the best of both worlds: the design of the next generation of smart vehicles comes from the worldwide Mercedes-Benz design network while R&D is carried out by smart in China. Moreover, smart leverages on the China-based production and supply network of Geely Group. The global headquarters of smart has been established in Hangzhou Bay, Ningbo with operational sales functions based in China and Europe.

Laos-Vietnam Pact Promises Top-Tier Tourism Education

Laos-Vietnam Pact Promises Top-Tier Tourism Education
Nouphanh Outsa, Director General of the Technical Vocational and Educational Training Department, Ministry of Education and Sports in Laos and Pham Ba Hung, Rector of Hue Tourism College, sign a partnership agreement at the Hue Tourism College in Vietnam on 22 July (photo supplied)

In a significant step towards enhancing vocational education for the tourism sector, Laos and Vietnam have formalized a cooperation agreement, highlighting their commitment to improving training quality in both countries. The agreement was signed on 22 July by Nouphanh Outsa, Director-General, Department of Technical and Vocational Education, Ministry of Education and Sports, and Pham Ba Hung, Rector, Hue Tourism College. 

Avenue K Hosts ‘Sport My Art’ to Empower Artists with Disabilities

The Olympic-inspired art exhibition features special needs and disabled artists


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 July 2024 – From 24th July to 11th August 2024, Avenue K Shopping Mall will host the ‘Sport My Art’ group art exhibition at Above @ Level 4. Featuring 22 special needs and disabled artists, the event provides a platform to showcase their talent and creativity while gaining recognition for their work. The exhibition celebrates their contributions to the art world, promotes a more inclusive community, and raises greater awareness of the challenges faced by artists with disabilities.

Avenue K Shopping Mall celebrates the official grand launch of the ‘Sport My Art’ Exhibition, showcasing incredible works by special needs and disability artists!
Avenue K Shopping Mall celebrates the official grand launch of the ‘Sport My Art’ Exhibition, showcasing incredible works by special needs and disability artists!

“By featuring their work in a mainstream venue, the exhibition promotes inclusivity within the art community, ensuring these artists have equal opportunities to present their work,” shared Rachel Er, Centre Manager at Avenue K Shopping Mall. She added, “It encourages broader societal inclusion, showing that people with disabilities can contribute meaningfully to cultural and artistic spheres.”

The exhibition has been carefully curated by artist Philip Wong to showcase the artists’ dedication to their passion and unique style of communicating through art.

The artists featured come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective to their talent. Despite facing various physical, cognitive, and sensory challenges, they have honed their craft to produce stunning works that challenge perceptions and inspire those who view their artwork.

Drawing inspiration from the Olympics, ‘Sport My Art’ takes visitors on a journey of hope and determination expressed through the vibrant colours of the Olympic rings to convey energy and enthusiasm in their paintings. Like sports, art has the power to inspire people to pursue their dreams and create a more inclusive society that recognises people of all talents.

‘Sport My Art’ also pays tribute to Malaysia’s athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics. It honours their triumphant achievements, extraordinary sacrifices, and great endurance in the pursuit of excellence.

Unlike other charity art exhibitions, 100% of the sale proceeds from ‘Sport My Art’ will go directly to the artists to support their financial independence and allow them to continue their creative pursuits.

The ‘Sport My Art’ exhibition at Above @ Level 4, Avenue K Shopping Mall is open daily from 11am to 7pm from 24th July to 11th August 2024, with no admission fees.
Hashtag: #AvenueKMY #MakeFriendsCreateTrends #AKFriends #AvenueKShoppingMall #SportMyArt #SportMyArtExhibition



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

Avenue K Shopping Mall

Avenue K Shopping Mall is Kuala Lumpur’s coolest urban hub, where life and creativity are celebrated. Far from a regular shopping mall, Avenue K is an experiential destination that has transformed the art of shopping. It captivates the senses with exciting experiences and Instagrammable spaces waiting to be discovered. Avenue K is where you make friends, and create trends. For more information, please visit.

Southco Introduces A Flush-Mount E6-73 Constant Torque Hinge


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 July 2024 – Southco Asia Ltd., a subsidiary of Southco Inc., a leading global provider of engineered access solutions such as locks, latches, captive fasteners, electronic access solutions, and hinges/positioning technology, has developed a flush-mount version of its popular E6 constant torque hinge. The E6-73 Stainless Steel Constant Torque Hinge provides all the benefits of a torque hinge in a low-profile, corrosion-resistant package, making it an ideal solution for those who want to maximize safety, longevity, and aesthetics. It also offers high torque for heavy-duty applications while maintaining its low profile. With all these benefits combined, the E6-73 Flush-Mount Torque Hinge provides a long-lasting solution for a variety of applications.

E6-73 Flush Mount Hinge
E6-73 Flush Mount Hinge

Safety is Southco’s top priority with their constant torque hinges. They ensure that panels never slam shut, even when users take their hands off them. This means fewer accidents, more convenience, and a better feel when moving a panel. Additionally, the E6-73’s barrel down design reduces snag points and provides a continuous flat surface when the panel is closed.

Usually, the more complicated a design is, the more potential it has to fail. The E6-73 mitigates these concerns with a durable, corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction that protects the internal mechanism from environmental wear and tear. It also boasts a 500h+ salt spray resistance. This lets the E6-73 withstand even the harshest conditions and maintain a high cycle life.

Finally, the E6-73 Flush-Mount Torque Hinge improves the aesthetic of any device it is used in. The barrel-down design keeps the hinge flush with the surface it is used on, providing a continuous flat surface. The hinge’s corrosion resistance also keeps it looking like new long into its lifespan. The torque hinge’s resistance also provides a higher quality feel for any panel it is used on, regardless of that panel’s weight. It guarantees smooth movement and eliminates gravity as a factor so users can access the panel in the way most convenient for them.

The E6-73 Flush-Mount Stainless Steel Constant Torque Hinge combines safety, durability, and aesthetics into a convenient, low-profile package that is easy to integrate into a wide variety of designs. Corrosion resistance extends the hinge’s cycle life despite harsh conditions, and keeps it looking good throughout it. No matter the application, the E6-73 provides a solution that is built to last, and to look good while doing it.

For more information about the E6-73 Flush-Mount Hinge, please visit www.southco.com/E6-Flush-Mount-Hinge or email the 24/7 customer service department at info@southco.com.

Hashtag: #southco #hinge #torque #positioncontrol #heavyduty #flushmount

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

About Southco

Southco, Inc. is the leading global designer and manufacturer of engineered access solutions. From quality and performance to aesthetics and ergonomics, we understand that first impressions are lasting impressions in product design. For over 70 years, Southco has helped the world’s most recognized brands create value for their customers with innovative access solutions designed to enhance the touch points of their products in transportation and industrial applications, medical equipment, data centers and more. With unrivalled engineering resources, innovative products and a dedicated global team, Southco delivers the broadest portfolio of premium access solutions available to equipment designers throughout the world.