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Axcynsis Therapeutics Receives FDA Clearance for IND Application of AT03-65, a Differentiated CLDN6-Targeting ADC, Powered by AxcynDOT™ Technology

AT03-65 is the first program utilizing AxcynDOT™, a proprietary payload with a differentiated mechanism of action, to enter clinical development

SINGAPORE, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Axcynsis Therapeutics Pte Ltd (“Axcynsis”), a privately held biopharmaceutical company specialized in delivering Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) with breakthrough potential, proudly announces the clearance of its Investigational New Drug application (IND) by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of AT03-65 for the treatment of patients with CLDN-6 positive solid tumors. Axcynsis is planning to initiate a Phase 1 multicentre clinical trial in the United States in 1Q 2025.

AT03-65 is a differentiated ADC that selectively binds to CLDN6 with strong affinity. It is enabled by AxcynDOT™, a proprietary payload that incorporates a derivative of an approved oncology therapeutics with unique mechanism of action and broad anti-tumor activity, and coupled with a cleavable and hydrophilic proprietary linker. CLDN6 is overexpressed in many cancers including lung, ovarian, endometrial, uterine, testicular, and gastric cancers while exhibiting minimal expression in normal tissues.  AT03-65 is designed to deliver targeted therapy to improve patient outcomes with advanced or metastatic CLDN6-positive cancers.

“This is a transformational event for Axcynsis and a significant milestone for our proprietary ADC platform using AxcynDOT™,” said Dr. Zou Bin, CEO of Axcynsis. “We are pleased that FDA has cleared AT03-65 which leverages our AxcynDOT™ technology for this first-in-human study.  We are very excited with the potential of offering a transformative therapeutic option for patients with CLDN6-positive tumors as well as advancing our pipeline with  differentiated  and effective ADCs using AxcynDOT™ to improve the lives of cancer patients worldwide”.

The upcoming Phase 1 multicentre clinical trial in the United States will evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and preliminary efficacy of AT03-65 in patients with advanced CLDN6-positive solid tumors.

About AT03-65

AT03-65 is a recombinant anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibody conjugated to AxcynDOT™, a proprietary payload developed by Axcynsis with a differentiated mechanism of action and broad anti-cancer activities.  AT03-65 is designed to target advanced, recurrent, or metastatic CLDN6+ solid tumors in patients who have progressed on or after standard systemic treatment or for whom no standard therapies are available.

The antibody of AT03-65 is rationally engineered for high affinity and specificity to CLDN6. Upon binding to CLDN6-expressing tumor cells, the ADC is internalized into lysosomes, where it releases its payload to inhibit tumor growth effectively. Preclinical studies demonstrate that AT03-65 not only directly kill CLDN6-positive tumor cells but also exhibits bystander killing effect, targeting neighboring CLDN6-negative tumor cells to enhance its anti-tumor efficacy. AT03-65 has demonstrated promising anti-tumor activities in multiple tumor mouse models and a favorable safety profile in non-human primates.

About AxcynDOT™

This is a proprietary payload developed by Axcynsis. It is a derivative of trabectedin, an approved chemotherapy in the United States, Europe and selected Asian countries, with a unique mechanism of action that is differentiated from other DNA alkylating payloads. AxcynDOT™ is optimized with enhanced potency and improved safety profile compared to trabectedin.

About Axcynsis Therapeutics

Axcynsis Therapeutics is a pioneering biotechnology company headquartered in Singapore with operations in the United States. The company has developed AxcynDOT™ , a proprietary linker payload platform to advance a pipeline of differentiated ADC candidates aimed at addressing key unmet medical needs. The company is committed to advance effective and targeted oncology therapeutics with breakthrough potential to improve the lives of cancer patients worldwide.

For more information, please visit Axcynsis Therapeutics’ official website
https://axcynsis.com/

Contact Information

Axcynsis Therapeutics Pte Ltd
41 Science Park Road
#04-18, The Gemini
Singapore 117610
Email: contactus@axcynsis.com

Two Agilent Factories Among 13 to Join World Economic Forum Lighthouse Network

Recognition brings the company a total of four Lighthouse designations as global advanced factory for its breakthroughs in scaling Fourth Industrial Revolution

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today announced the World Economic Forum has named two of Agilent’s smart factories in Asia as a Global Lighthouse Network, a community of 189 global leaders leading the way in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) in advanced manufacturing.

Agilent’s new Lighthouse designation as global advanced factory located at Bayan Lepas in Penang, Malaysia

Agilent sites in Shanghai, China, and Penang, Malaysia, are two of 13 factories across the world that have just been added to the latest cohort of Lighthouses.

This recognition marks Agilent’s third and fourth Lighthouses for its breakthroughs in scaling AI, 3D printing, robotics, big-data analytics, and industrial internet of things (IIoT). Since 2022, two of Agilent’s manufacturing sites – Singapore and Waldbronn, Germany – have earned this prestigious distinction. The company remains the sole analytical and clinical laboratory technology company worldwide to be recognized by the Forum.

“This important milestone showcases Agilent’s leadership in building factories of the future by integrating advanced digital technologies across our end-to-end operations,” said Agilent CEO Padraig McDonnell. “Our factories of the future not only elevate our customers’ experiences and exceed their expectations, but they also continuously develop our future workforce.”

Agilent’s Shanghai factory serves as a global strategic manufacturing hub, integrating R&D, quality-assurance, supply-chain and logistics-management capabilities. To enhance the production of highly customized gas chromatography, it deploys smart manufacturing with AI-assisted instrument design, using cutting-edge indexed repository to optimize precision, efficiency, and innovation.

As a result, the site has improved productivity by 56%, lead time by 31%, and customer satisfaction on delivery exceeding 96%. Today, China has become the single largest market for Agilent outside of the U.S. and has been an important part of the company’s growth strategy.

Agilent Penang deploys game-changing AI in 3D-printing to automate material configuration, optimize printing of highly customized components, and minimize waste. By integrating AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics into additive manufacturing, the factory reshaped a capacity-saturated site into a digital operation with real-time monitoring and predictive insights for smarter, more agile production capabilities.

Its integrated digital platform has improved productivity by 40%, manufacturing cost by 32% and delivery lead time by 48%. As one of Agilent’s global strategic facilities, the Penang factory hosts a state-of-the-art Global Instrument Design Center and a Biochemical Safety and Reliability Lab.

“Empowering the frontline and fostering inclusive digital cultures is at the heart of success for Lighthouses,” said Fernando Perez, Senior Partner and Head of Operations Innovations, McKinsey & Company. “These pioneering sites are building resilient, future-ready workforces and demonstrate that investing in people is as crucial as investing in technology. It is the powerful combination of both that drives meaningful change that extends beyond factory walls to make positive impact across production ecosystems.”

Tapping into 4IR technologies, Agilent successfully built resilient value chain ecosystems capable of quick response to evolving market demands. These advancements provide scientists with faster access to the instruments they need, accelerating research discoveries. With its long-standing values of innovation, Agilent continues pushing its smart factories around the world to bring great science to life and serve as a beacon to other manufacturers globally.

About the Global Lighthouse Network

Launched in 2018, the Global Lighthouse Network brings together and celebrates the success of the world’s leading industrial sites which achieved exceptional performance in productivity, supply chain resilience, customer centricity, sustainability and talent. This global community of influential innovators, deploying over 1,000 solutions in multiple industries, includes 189 sites, 25 of which are Sustainability Lighthouses. The network now spans over 30 countries and 35 sectors. The initiative was co-founded by the World Economic Forum and Mckinsey & Company. Learn more at WEForum.org.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is a global leader in analytical and clinical laboratory technologies, delivering insights and innovation that help our customers bring great science to life. Agilent’s full range of solutions includes instruments, software, services, and expertise that provide trusted answers to our customers’ most challenging questions. The company generated revenue of $6.51 billion in fiscal year 2024 and employs approximately 18,000 people worldwide. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com. To receive the latest Agilent news, subscribe to the Agilent Newsroom. Follow Agilent on LinkedIn and Facebook.

For Information

Media Relations, South Asia Pacific & Korea
Grace Thong
Agilent Technologies
+65 9688 2152
grace.thong@agilent.com

TDCX Singapore reinforces data privacy commitment with Data Protection Trustmark Certification


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2025 – TDCX Singapore, an award-winning digital customer experience (CX) solutions provider for technology and blue-chip companies, has obtained the Data Protection Trustmark (DPTM) awarded by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), a statutory board under the Singapore Ministry of Digital Development and Information. This certification serves as a badge of trust, underscoring the company’s dedication to data privacy initiatives and commitment to building customer confidence.

Ms. Angie Tay, Group Chief Operating Officer and EVP, said, “Protecting user information requires a well-rounded and proactive approach to data management and ongoing vigilance. The DPTM certification demonstrates our commitment to ensuring data security and maintaining our client’s trust.

“In the last three years, TDCX has undergone rigorous assessments to become an IMDA-certified trusted digital identity provider. This includes appointing independent auditors to conduct thorough reviews and assessments on our Information Security (InfoSec) and data protection frameworks.”

The DPTM is a voluntary, enterprise-wide certification that acknowledges organizations committed to responsible data protection practices. TDCX Singapore has implemented robust measures to safeguard user data and has achieved the following:

  • ISO 27001:2022: This certification for Information Security Management Systems provides comprehensive guidance for businesses of all sizes and industries on establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving their information security management systems.
  • SOC 2 Type 2: A robust security framework that outlines how organizations should safeguard customer data, protecting it from unauthorized access, security incidents, and other vulnerabilities.
  • Singapore Cyber Trust Mark: A recognition for organizations that have proven the implementation of strong cybersecurity policies and processes that are appropriate for their cybersecurity risk profile.

TDCX Singapore’s IT team regularly collaborates with external consultants to seek advice on the most recent trends and insights in InfoSec, as well as guidance on effective implementation. Additionally, the team works closely with the learning and development team to provide annual training programs to ensure that all employees are up to date on the most recent InfoSec and data protection policies.

TDCX Singapore’s DPTM certification adds to TDCX’s commitment to upholding other global data practices, including the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (EU GDPR).

Hashtag: #CX #Outsourcing #BPO




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

About TDCX

Singapore-headquartered TDCX provides transformative digital CX solutions, enabling world-leading and disruptive brands to acquire new customers, to build customer loyalty and to protect their online communities.

TDCX helps clients achieve their customer experience aspirations by harnessing technology, human intelligence, and its global footprint. It serves clients in fintech, gaming, technology, travel and hospitality, digital advertising and social media, streaming and e-commerce. TDCX’s expertise and strong footprint in Asia has made it a trusted partner for clients, particularly high-growth, new economy companies, looking to tap the region’s growth potential.

TDCX’s commitment to delivering positive outcomes for our clients extends to its role as a responsible corporate citizen. Its Corporate Social Responsibility program focuses on positively transforming the lives of its people, its communities, and the environment.

TDCX employs more than 19,000 employees across 34 campuses globally, specifically in Brazil, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, Mainland China, Philippines, Türkiye, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, Türkiye, and Vietnam. For more information, please visit www.tdcx.com.

A Digital Transformation Success Story Powered by M1 with 6D Technologies’ Cloud-Native BSS

BENGALURU, India, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — 6D Technologies, a global leader in digital transformation solutions, proudly announces the successful migration of M1 Limited’s Prepaid and Maxx services to the 6D Technologies Canvas, a cutting-edge Digital BSS platform. Over 15 months, 6D Technologies migrated all of M1’s Prepaid and Maxx (Postpaid) subscribers from legacy systems to Canvas. This modernization enhanced service delivery, operational efficiency, and customer experience with minimal disruption, marking a significant milestone in M1’s digital evolution.

The migration project leveraged the comprehensive suite of licensed software modules offered by 6D Technologies. These modules form a holistic ecosystem that streamlines operations:

  • Canvas includes advanced Customer Relationship Management, a Unified Product Catalogue, Order and Workflow Management, Billing and Invoicing, Billing Mediation, 6D Technologies Digital API Gateway, 6D Technologies ESB, Notification Engine, Reporting, and Single Sign-On (SSO).
  • Magik, the Campaign Management Solution, offers a Business Rule Engine, Advanced Analytics, Loyalty Management, Data Management Capability, BI and Reporting, and Commissioning for Retailers.
  • Aureus features a Retailer Portal for seamless E-top-up services.
  • Other integral modules include a SIM and Number Management System, Web Self-Care, Gamification with five interactive games, and a robust Voucher Management System.

Marko Cetkovic, Chief Digital Officer at M1, added, “Our partnership with 6D Technologies is key to modernizing Digital BSS and Campaign Management. Migrating our legacy Prepaid and Maxx customer base to the new platform drives operational efficiencies and reduces time to market, aligning with our strategy to future-proof our operations.”

Manish Arora, Co-Founder and CRO of 6D Technologies, stated, “The successful migration of M1’s Prepaid and Maxx services to our Canvas platform underscores the power and scalability of our Digital BSS solutions. This migration not only enhances operational efficiency but also empowers M1 to deliver superior, data-driven customer experiences. We remain committed to helping our clients excel in a competitive telecom landscape.”

About 6D Technologies

6D Technologies provides innovative digital transformation solutions for CSPs. Its scalable platforms empower telecom operators to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth, redefining business management in an ever-evolving digital ecosystem.

Allianz Risk Barometer 2025: Business interruption top business risk in Asia

  • Companies identify Business interruption as their top business concern for the year ahead (37% of overall responses)
  • Cyber ranks #2 (31%), with data breaches identified as the cyber exposure companies fear most
  • Natural catastrophes retain #3 rank (27%) in Asia, which is heating up faster than the global average

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2025 – Business interruption is the biggest worry for Asian companies in 2025, according to the Allianz Risk Barometer. Cyber incidents such as data breaches or ransomware attacks, and IT disruptions, such as the CrowdStrike incident, are also a main concern for companies of all sizes, ranking #2. After another heavy year of Natural catastrophes activity in 2024 this peril remains #3.

The top three risks globally – Cyber incidents (#1), Business interruption (#2), and Natural catastrophes (#3) – retained their positions in this year’s Allianz Risk Barometer, which is based on the insights of more than 3,700 risk management professionals from over 100 countries.

Allianz Commercial Chief Underwriting Officer Vanessa Maxwell comments: “2024 was an extraordinary year in terms of risk management and the results of our annual Allianz Risk Barometer reflect the uncertainty many companies around the globe are facing right now. What stands out this year is the interconnectivity of the top risks. Climate change, emerging technology, regulation and geopolitical risks are increasingly intertwined, resulting in a complex network of cause and effect. Businesses need to adopt a holistic approach to risk management and consistently strive to enhance their resilience in order to address these fast-evolving risks.”

Christian Sandric, Regional Managing Director of Allianz Commercial Asia, says, “Business interruption is the most significant risk for companies in the region and this is no surprise as Asian economies are increasingly participating in trade globally and regionally. This is also often due to events like cyber incidents or natural catastrophes, which are part of the top risks in the region. Against this backdrop of an increasingly volatile risk landscape, businesses should ensure they are sufficiently protected and their response measures robust. This includes adopting measures such as loss prevention, developing multiple suppliers, alternative risk transfer, and multinational insurance policies.”

Business interruption strongly interlinked with other risks
Business interruption (BI) is the top risk in Asia; it ranks in the top three risks in all countries and territories, and is the top risk in China and Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea. Its persistence at the top reflects severe supply chain disruption during and after the pandemic.

Such disruptions are of particular concern as Asian economies are increasingly participating in trade. Asia is now the world’s second-most integrated trade region, driven by the rapid growth of manufacturing supply chains across borders. In addition, due to rising US-China tensions, bilateral trade between geopolitically aligned countries has risen. Global trade flows are becoming more intricate and this shift has opened doors for nations like India and Malaysia to step up as next-generation trade hubs, according to Allianz Trade.

Globally, BI has ranked either #1 or #2 in every Allianz Risk Barometer for the past decade and retains its position at #2 in 2025 with 31% of responses. BI is typically a consequence of events like a natural disaster, a cyber-attack or outage, insolvency or political risks like conflict or civil unrest, which can all affect the ability of a business to operate normally. Several examples from 2024 highlight why companies still see BI as a major threat to their business model. Houthi attacks in the Red Sea led to supply chain disruptions due to rerouting of container ships, while incidents such as the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore also directly impacted global and local supply chains. Supply chain disruptions with global effects occur approximately every 1.4 years, and the trend is rising, according to analysis from Circular Republic, in collaboration with Allianz and others. Those disruptions cause major economic damages, ranging up to 5% to 10% of product costs and additional downtime impacts.

Cyber risks continue to increase with rapid development of technology
Cyber incidents rank #2 in Asia; it is the top risk in India for the eighth consecutive year, and the second most significant risk in Japan and Singapore. The Asia Pacific region saw a 23% increase in weekly cyberattacks per organization in Q2 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Some of the cyber incidents around the region include the attack on India’s biggest crypto exchange WazirX, the distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack on Japan Airlines, and cyberattack on Singapore law firm Shook Lin & Bok.

Globally, Cyber incidents (38% of overall responses) rank as the most important risk for the fourth year in a row – and by a higher margin than ever (7% points). It is the top peril in 20 countries, including Argentina, France, Germany, India, South Africa, the UK and the US. More than 60% of respondents identified data breaches as the cyber exposure companies fear most, followed by attacks on critical infrastructure and physical assets with 57%.

Natural catastrophes remain a major concern
Natural catastrophes retain its #3 spot in Asia. The region is heating up faster than the global average, with increased casualties and economic losses from floods, storms, and more severe heatwaves. It is the top risk in Japan, which faced a M7.5 earthquake in the Noto Peninsula that resulted in insured losses of US$3bn, with economic losses reaching US$12bn, as well as in Hong Kong, which experienced its heaviest rain in November 2024 since records began 140 years ago due to Typhoon Haikui.

Globally, Natural catastrophes remain at #3 with 29%, although more respondents also picked this as a top risk year-on-year. For the fifth time in a row in 2024, insured losses surpassed US$100bn. 2024 is expected to have been the hottest year on record. It was also a year of terrible natural catastrophes with extreme hurricanes and storms in North America, devastating floods in Europe and Asia and drought in Africa and South America.

Resources:

Hashtag: #Allianz


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

About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, , and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, , we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us to provide a wide range of traditional and risk transfer solutions, outstanding and services, as well as seamless handling. The trade name Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2023, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated more than €18 billion gross premium globally.

SDS Australia Partners with Leading European Sauna Brand Auroom

SYDNEY, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ —
Leading European sauna brand Auroom and SDS Australia have announced an exclusive partnership

Auroom is celebrated for its superior craftsmanship and innovative flat-pack designs, which are perfect for indoor and outdoor use. These features, combined with their affordability and adherence to strict European manufacturing standards, have already earned widespread acclaim among SDS Australia customers.

“Auroom strikes the perfect balance of quality and price,” said Doubinski. “This partnership aligns with our mission to bring high-quality saunas to every household, supported by our robust ecommerce platform, expanding warehousing facilities, and growing reseller network.”

Risto Mätas, Sales Director of Auroom, echoed this enthusiasm:

“We’re thrilled to work with SDS Australia to share our passion for quality and craftsmanship. SDS Australia’s excellent service and commitment to the sauna industry make them the perfect partner for Auroom.”

Through this exclusive agreement, SDS Australia will make Auroom’s innovative saunas accessible nationwide, supporting the brand’s mission to bring the scientifically backed wellness benefits of saunas to Australians .

“At SDS Australia, we believe a sauna is an essential health device – a necessity in every home, like a fridge or a washing machine,” Doubinski concluded.

About SDS Australia
Founded in 2003, SDS Australia has cemented its position as the nation’s top provider of high-quality European saunas and wellness products, in addition to being the leading builder of custom saunas in Australia. Web: https://sdsaustralia.com 

Contact SDS Australia

About Auroom
Part of the Thermory group, Auroom is Europe’s leading sauna manufacturer, celebrated for its craftsmanship and innovative designs. Web: https://auroomwellness.com

Contact:
benpollett@sdsaustralia.com 

Countdown to FITUR 2025: The Key Global Event for the Tourism Industry

Brazil Takes Center Stage as Partner Country in a Growing Edition with 9,500 Companies from 156 Countries and 884 Main Exhibitors

MADRID, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Organized by IFEMA MADRID, the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) will bring together the global tourism market for its 45th edition, running from January 22 to 26. The event will highlight the exceptional performance of the tourism industry in 2024 and its promising outlook for 2025. A context of strength in which the industry, united under FITUR, seeks to highlight its pride in belonging to the sector, its transformative role, and its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

From left to right: María Valcarce, Director of FITUR; Almudena Maíllo del Valle, Head of the Madrid City Council’s Tourism Delegation; Daniel Martínez, Executive Vice President of IFEMA MADRID; Marco Sansavini, President of Iberia and Chairman of the FITUR Organizing Committee; José Vicente de los Mozos, Chairman of the Executive Committee of IFEMA MADRID; Rosario Sánchez, Secretary of State for Tourism; Orlando Leite Ribeiro, Ambassador of Brazil; Mariano de Paco, Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Sports of the Community of Madrid; and Arancha Priede, General Director of Trade Fairs and Congresses at IFEMA MADRID.

FITUR once again opens the international calendar of tourism fairs, reaffirming its leadership as the top event by volume of participants and attendees, with the backing of all public and private stakeholders in the value chain. This is supported by the figures presented during the press conference: 9,500 participating companies, 156 countries, and 884 main exhibitors showcasing their offerings across nine halls, including 101 countries with official representation.

Additionally, the excellent industry response to FITUR 2025 is expected to be reflected in attendance numbers, with projections exceeding 150,000 professionals from Wednesday to Friday and around 100,000 general public visitors over the weekend. This influx is estimated to generate an economic impact of €445 million for Madrid, positively affecting sectors such as transportation, hotels, gastronomy, culture, and entertainment.

FITUR: A Key Global Gathering for the Tourism Industry

After a year of post-pandemic recovery in 2024, FITUR is once again defined by growth. The direct participation of main exhibitors has reached 884, marking a 10% overall increase and a 19% rise in international representation.

This international focus, central to FITUR’s objectives, is reflected in the 101 official country representations—five more than in the previous edition—and the addition of eleven new countries joining FITUR 2025, primarily from Africa and Asia.

Highlighting the role of innovation, the Travel Technology area has grown by 6%, showcasing global trends in tourism booking technologies and featuring over 100 companies worldwide.

Among the highlights for 2025 is Brazil’s participation as Partner Country, with a significant presence to showcase its diverse tourism offerings and strengthen its global positioning. According to data from Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism and Embratur, 2024 was a record year for international tourism, with 6,657,377 foreign visitors, a 12.6% increase from the previous year.

The Future of Tourism: Business, Knowledge, and Sustainability

FITUR has renewed its ten thematic sections, emphasizing sustainability and business by connecting the tourism industry with other sectors to generate new traveler niches.

FITUR Cruises, developed with CRUCEROADICTO, will highlight the cruise industry’s commitment to sustainability. FITUR LGTB+ will promote diversity and inclusion, while FITUR Lingua will explore language tourism opportunities in partnership with FEDELE. FITUR Screen, in collaboration with the SPAIN FILM COMMISSION, will connect the film and tourism industries. Meanwhile, FITUR Sports, in partnership with AFYDAD, will demonstrate how sports tourism fosters responsible tourism.

FITUR Techy, created with ITH, will explore how AI is revolutionizing travel management. FITUR Talent will focus on challenges in talent and training. FITUR Woman, in collaboration with WOMEN LEADING TOURISM, will promote female leadership. FITUR Know How & Export, developed with SEGITTUR in partnership with ICEX, will showcase the potential of Spanish tourism companies. Lastly, FITUR 4all, in collaboration with IMPULSA IGUALDAD, will advance accessible tourism through initiatives such as the second FITUR 4all Awards and the first Best Practices Guide.

The Sustainability Observatory, FITURNEXT will address how tourism can contribute to sustainable food management.

More information on https://www.ifema.es/en/fitur.

Leadership change fuels Busways’ strategic ambitions

SYDNEY, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Busways, the largest Australian-owned bus operator, has appointed Will O’Neill as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025.

Byron Rowe and Will O’ Neill

Mr O’Neill steps up to the helm after a decade of strong leadership at Busways, most recently as Chief Financial Officer and Commercial Officer, and with 30 years’ commercial and financial experience.

He succeeds Byron Rowe, grandson of founder Dick Rowe, who moves to Executive Chair of the Busways Board after seven transformative years as Managing Director of the 82-year-old company.  Under Mr Rowe’s leadership, Busways doubled in size, solidifying its position as the largest Australian-owned bus operator, successfully navigating expansions and challenging times.

Mr Rowe explains that the shift ensures Busways is primed for long-term success.

“This transition is all about strengthening Busways and setting us up for what’s next. We’ve got a strong team at Busways and a clear plan in place,” Mr Rowe says.

“As Executive Chair, I will concentrate on strategic projects and long-term growth initiatives, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional service and value for government and communities.”

“Having worked alongside Will for over a decade, I’m fully confident in his ability to lead Busways with the same dedication and drive we’ve always shared,” he says.

“His commitment and insight make him a natural fit for the role, he’ll keep our dedicated team moving forward with strength and purpose.”

Mr O’Neill says he looks forward to focusing on leading the business and preparing Busways for growth opportunities.

“At the heart of my new responsibility as CEO is doing justice to the legacy that has been built in this business, together with guiding our continued development and growth to set up for the next generation of leaders” Mr O’Neill said.

A key part of that is developing and retaining good people, he says.

“As a service business, our people are the key to our success.  We work hard to provide our people with the environment they need to succeed. This is a great business, with great people.”

“This is why Busways is an Australian success story.  In the 1970’s there were approximately 40 private bus operators in the Sydney metro area, the most challenging and competitive market in Australia.  Today, there is only one – Busways – and we serve 20% of the market.

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to lead such a wonderful organisation and I am excited about continuing to deliver for our clients and customers as we continue to grow.”

Will O’Neill brings over 30 years of expertise in senior executive leadership, corporate finance, and strategic planning, including leadership roles at KPMG and other advisory firms. He has led or advised on complex, high-impact projects, advising governments and corporations in a range of industries.

This leadership change marks a natural progression in Busways’ journey as the company continues to expand its footprint and lead innovation in public transport services.

Contact Busways Media team at media@busways.com.au