Home Blog Page 1218

Leaders Dental Unveils Vision to Become “The Central Hub of the Digital Dentistry Ecosystem,” Accelerates AI and IoT-Driven Production Automation

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leaders Dental Laboratory, a leading force in Korea’s digital dental technology sector, has announced a new vision to position itself as “the central hub of the digital dentistry ecosystem.” To realize this vision, the company is making significant investments in AI-CAD, 3D printing, and IoT-based production automation. With the Korean implant market approaching saturation, Leaders Dental aims to secure long-term competitiveness by investing aggressively in next-generation technologies and expanding its reach beyond the domestic market into the global digital dentistry landscape.

Since its establishment, Leaders Dental has consistently invested in research and development, and these efforts are now translating into visible revenue growth. Leveraging its large-scale production infrastructure and fully digital workflow, the company manages the quality of key products—including implant prosthetics and surgical guides—through a highly structured QC process. Leaders Dental is also preparing collaborations with international partners such as SIC and Imagine USA, working to transform its domestic expertise into globally standardized digital dental systems.

A company representative stated, “Leading the transition from traditional manual fabrication to fully automated dental prosthetics production is our mission. We take pride in being an innovative company driving the future of dental technology, and we will continue to build on our spirit of technological innovation to strengthen Korea’s presence in the global digital dental market.”

The company plans to aggressively expand its sales network over the next one to two years, with a focus on China, broader Asia, and the Middle East.

Geumsan Insamju Targets Japan’s Trendy Youth with ‘Geumseol,’ Positioning It as a K-Culture Inspired Liqueur

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Agricultural Corporation Geumsan Insamju announced that it is positioning its signature product, Geumseol, not merely as a traditional spirit but as a “K-culture inspired liqueur” tailored to Japan’s MZ generation and trend-driven consumers. As interest in K-content and K-food continues to rise in Japan, Korean-style alcoholic beverages are rapidly gaining traction among younger demographics.

To capture this demand, the company is planning pop-up bar events and collaboration projects in lifestyle select shops and nightlife-focused districts across Tokyo and Osaka. Geumseol‘s distinctive LED-lit bottle base is expected to become a key visual attraction, resonating with Japan’s youth who enjoy photo-friendly, mood-driven drinks. This feature positions Geumseol as both an “aesthetic liqueur” and a “party-style spirit” with strong social media appeal.

The product’s ginseng-based formulation also aligns well with Japanese consumers’ growing interest in wellness and natural ingredients. “Geumseol is more than a drink—it embodies Korean tradition, nature, and health,” the company said, expressing its ambition to “set a new benchmark for K-liqueur in the Japanese market.”

Looking ahead, Geumsan Insamju plans to expand its Japan-focused marketing strategy through social media campaigns, collaborations with K-culture fan communities, tie-ins with Korean cultural events, and the release of seasonal or concept-based limited-edition liqueurs.

A company representative noted that this expansion into Japan reflects “a commitment not only to introducing a Korean alcoholic beverage, but to sharing the culture and identity behind it,” emphasizing the company’s pride in bringing K-tradition to global consumers.

All CONEC Signs MOU with MINIMAX, Taking First Step in Standardizing Digital Implant Production

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — All CONEC has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Australian digital dental company MINIMAX to establish a collaborative framework for digital implant production and lay the groundwork for overseas market entry.

Digital implant production faces challenges due to differences in national product standards, production protocols, and communication methods. This partnership allows All CONEC to establish platform-based production standards at an early stage.

The collaboration covers validating implant guide and prosthetic production processes, conducting clinical case-based testing, and coordinating with local production partners. By integrating clinical testing from the initial stage, the partnership ensures that the process is verified and applicable in real-world clinical settings, marking a significant step toward global commercialization of digital dental solutions.

Based on this MOU, All CONEC plans sequential expansion into markets such as the U.S. and Southeast Asia. The company also aims to enhance implant guide and prosthetic design capabilities and strengthen automated quality verification functions, further advancing its goal of becoming a global standard digital dental platform.

This collaboration not only supports overseas market entry but also contributes to establishing standardized and commercially viable digital dental production processes worldwide.

Carrier Announces Agreement to Sell Riello to Ariston Group

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla., Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Riello business to Ariston Group.

“After completing a comprehensive and competitive bidding process, we determined that Ariston Group is the right owner to guide Riello’s next phase of growth,” said Carrier Chairman & CEO David Gitlin. “Riello has a proud legacy and talented teams, and this agreement reflects our disciplined portfolio management as we continue sharpening our focus on differentiated climate and energy solutions. I am deeply appreciative of our teams’ exceptional work throughout this process.” 

“We are honored to welcome Riello into our organization,” said Paolo Merloni, Executive Chairman of Ariston Group. “Riello’s respected brands, technical expertise and strong positions in its core markets make it highly complementary to Ariston Group. We are committed to building on Riello’s legacy and together, creating meaningful value for all stakeholders.”

Carrier expects gross proceeds from the transaction of approximately $430 million and intends to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including share repurchases, consistent with its capital allocation priorities. 

The transaction is expected to close during the first half of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and works council consultation processes. 

BofA Securities is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Carrier, and Linklaters LLP is acting as external legal counsel.

About Carrier 
Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, is committed to creating innovations that bring comfort, safety and sustainability to life. Through cutting-edge advancements in climate solutions such as temperature control, air quality and transportation, we improve lives, empower critical industries and ensure the safe transport of food, life-saving medicines and more. Since inventing modern air conditioning in 1902, we lead with purpose: enhancing the lives we live and the world we share. We continue to lead because of our world-class, inclusive workforce that puts the customer at the center of everything we do. For more information, visit www.corporate.carrier.com or follow Carrier on social media at @Carrier

Carrier. For the World We Share. 

About Ariston Group
Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM) is a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, listed on Euronext Milan. In 2024 the group reported 2.6 billion-euro revenues, with over 10,000 employees, direct presence in 40 countries in 5 continents, 29 production sites and 28 research and development centers. The group demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through renewable and high-efficiency solutions, including heating heat pumps, water heating heat pumps, hybrids, domestic ventilation, air handling, electric components and solar thermal systems, while continuously investing in technological innovation, digitalization and advanced connectivity solutions. The group operates under global strategic brands Ariston, Elco and Wolf, and brands such as Calorex, NTI, HTP, Atag, Brink, Chromagen, Racold, as well as Thermowatt and Ecoflam in the components and burners business.

Cautionary Statement
This communication contains statements which, to the extent they are not statements of historical or present fact, constitute “forward-looking statements” under the securities laws. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide management’s current expectations or plans for Carrier’s future operating and financial performance, based on assumptions currently believed to be valid. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “expectations,” “plans,” “strategy,” “prospects,” “estimate,” “project,” “target,” “anticipate,” “will,” “should,” “see,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “confident,” “scenario” and other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. Forward-looking statements may include, among other things, statements relating to the sale of Carrier’s Riello business, expected uses of the net proceeds therefrom, strategies or transactions of Carrier, Carrier’s plans with respect to its indebtedness and other statements that are not historical facts. All forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. For additional information on identifying factors that may cause actual results to vary materially from those stated in forward-looking statements, see Carrier’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and Carrier assumes no obligation to update or revise such statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

CARR-IR

Contact:

Media Inquiries

Rob Six

561-281-2362

Robert.Six@Carrier.com

Investor Relations

Michael Rednor

561-365-2020

InvestorRelations@Carrier.com

 

SDS Australia to Launch Canadian Cedar Ice Baths in January 2026 Following Sustained Demand

SYDNEY, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SDS Australia has confirmed it will release its new Canadian Cedar Ice Baths in January 2026, following months of development prompted by sustained customer demand and the growing popularity of cold-water immersion as part of at-home wellness routines.

The leading wellness company says enquiries for a more accessible ice bath – one that balances premium materials with everyday usability – have become increasingly common across its showrooms and digital channels. Many customers, SDS Australia noted, were looking for a product that delivered genuine recovery performance without the scale or cost typically associated with commercial or ultra-luxury cold-plunge systems.

The Black Edition of SDS Australia's forthcoming 'Eira' Canadian Cedar Ice Bath
The Black Edition of SDS Australia’s forthcoming ‘Eira’ Canadian Cedar Ice Bath

After an extended period of design and testing, SDS Australia is now preparing to bring the range to market. The new ‘Eira’ Canadian Cedar Ice Baths feature solid Canadian Red Cedar cladding and are built around a hand-welded 316 marine-grade stainless steel tub, a construction method more often seen in higher-end recovery installations.

On release, the range will be offered in two finishes: a Natural Cedar edition, designed to highlight the character of the timber, and a Black Cedar edition, intended for more contemporary architectural settings. Both models are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

According to SDS Australia CEO Michael Doubinski, the range was shaped directly by customer feedback.

“This is something customers have been asking for over a long period of time,” Doubinski said. “The brief was clear – maintain premium material quality and performance, but deliver a more approachable entry point than our most premium systems.”

Each unit will incorporate an integrated 1HP cooling system capable of delivering water temperatures between 3–42°C, allowing users to move between cold immersion and warmer recovery sessions without the use of ice. Wi-Fi control, alongside ozone sanitisation and multi-stage filtration, will support straightforward operation and consistent water quality.

Doubinski added that the engineering approach was deliberately elevated beyond what is typically seen in the category.

“We’ve engineered the internal cooling and water-management systems to a much higher standard than what’s typically found in the ice bath market,” he said.

“Rather than relying on lightweight, self-contained units commonly used in entry-level ice baths, we’ve taken a more robust, swimming-pool-grade approach to cooling, filtration and sanitation. The result is a system designed for longevity, stability and consistent performance over time.”

Cold-water immersion continues to gain momentum among athletes, wellness practitioners and the broader public, driven by growing interest in recovery, resilience and preventative health. With the launch of the ‘Eira’ range, SDS Australia is responding directly to this shift in the market.

The ‘Eira’ Canadian Cedar Ice Bath – available in Natural and Black editions – is now available for pre-order from SDS Australia, with deliveries expected to commence in January 2026.

CONTACT: Ben Pollett, benpollett@sdsaustralia.com 

Qatar’s Years of Culture Initiative Announces Partner Countries for 2026 and 2027

DOHA, Qatar, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Years of Culture initiative announced plans for a new slate of cultural partnerships with countries across the globe, celebrating mutual respect, cultural exchange, and global collaboration. The upcoming partnerships will include Canada and Mexico (2026) and Egypt and Greece (2027).

Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Years of Culture, said, “Years of Culture is one of our most rewarding programmes. As a legacy built for the FIFA World Cup 2022, it has been building understanding across borders for more than a dozen years. It was designed to bring our culture to different continents and introduce our values and talent to new audiences, while celebrating other countries in exchange here in Qatar. This year, we host Argentina and Chile. Next year will bring us into exchange with Mexico and Canada, followed by Egypt and Greece in 2027.”         

Launched in 2012, Years of Culture builds long-term relationships between Qatar and partner nations through a series of cultural, educational, business and creative exchanges. The initiative reflects Qatar’s belief that cultural collaboration supports dialogue, strengthens international ties, and promotes understanding across borders.

The 2026 Year of Culture with Canada and Mexico carries a special symmetry. The FIFA World Cup 26™, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is the same tournament that inspired the creation of the Years of Culture initiative when Qatar won the hosting bid.

Echoing the spirit of global unity represented by the games, this collaboration with the next World Cup hosts will highlight football’s ability to connect cultures. Additional programmes will be presented as legacy projects of Year of Culture Qatar-USA 2021.

In 2027, Qatar will honour the cultural legacies of Egypt and Greece, two civilisations that have shaped world history and continue to influence contemporary culture, philosophy, and art.

Throughout each Year of Culture, Qatar collaborates closely with cultural institutions, embassies, artists, and educators to present a diverse calendar of exhibitions, festivals, trade fairs, residencies, academic exchanges, and public events in both countries. Programming often begins in the lead-up to the official year and continues well beyond, creating long-term legacies and relationships.

Since its founding, Years of Culture has established partnerships with Japan (2012), the United Kingdom (2013), Brazil (2014), Türkiye (2015), China (2016), Germany (2017), Russia (2018), India (2019), France (2020), the United States (2021), the MENASA region (2022), Indonesia (2023), and Morocco (2024). Qatar is currently celebrating a Year of Culture with both Argentina and Chile (2025).

For more information, visit www.yearsofculture.qa or follow @yearsofculture on social media.

 

IAAPA Announces Global Partnership with Expression Capital Partners to Support Growth and Investment Across the Attractions Industry

ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — IAAPA, the premier association representing the global attractions industry, has announced a new global partnership with Expression Capital Partners LLP, marking a significant investment in the long-term success, financial health, and innovation capacity of IAAPA members around the world.

IAAPA Announces Global Partnership with Expression Capital Partners to Support Growth and Investment Across the Attractions Industry
IAAPA Announces Global Partnership with Expression Capital Partners to Support Growth and Investment Across the Attractions Industry

As IAAPA’s exclusive private equity and M&A advisory partner and Platinum Sponsor of all IAAPA Expos, Expression Capital Partners will bring expanded financial expertise, investment resources, and strategic guidance to attraction owners, developers, and operators across all global regions.

Expression Capital Partners – authorized and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority – brings a uniquely deep connection to the leisure and entertainment industry. Unlike traditional private equity firms, most of Expression Capital’s founders were born into the entertainment industry, representing generations of building, operating, financing, and innovating within attractions, hospitality, and live entertainment.

“IAAPA is thrilled to welcome Expression Capital Partners as our global private equity and M&A advisory partner,” said Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA. “Their multigenerational expertise and deep understanding of our industry bring tremendous value to IAAPA members. This partnership opens the door for members to access high-level investment guidance, strategic financial support, and opportunities to bring bold ideas to life. We look forward to working together to strengthen and advance the attractions industry worldwide.”

During IAAPA Expo 2025. Elliot Hall, a founding partner at Expression Capital Partners LLP. shared Expression Capital’s vision for supporting the global attractions community. 

“We are proud to serve as IAAPA’s exclusive private equity and M&A advisory partner. With decades of experience in the entertainment industry, our team understands this sector in a unique way.

“Whether members are looking to invest, raise capital, bring a new concept to life, or navigate a buy, sell, or merge opportunity, we’re here as a trusted resource to support long-term growth across the attractions industry.”

How IAAPA Members Will Benefit

Through this global partnership, IAAPA members will gain:

  • Direct access to specialized investment expertise from a firm deeply rooted in the attractions and entertainment sectors.
  • Support with buying, selling, merging, or raising capital, including guidance through complex transactions.
  • Opportunities to explore strategic investments through Entertainment Investments 1 LP and other capital channels.
  • Advisory services for emerging concepts, helping visionary ideas evolve into fully funded, operational attractions.
  • Stronger global financial connections, enabling companies of all sizes – from start-ups to major operators – to pursue transformative growth.

This collaboration ensures that IAAPA members have a trusted partner ready to help them innovate, expand, and build sustainable futures for their businesses.

www.expressioncapitalpartners.com 

 

China’s Tech Rising Star Zhongwei Sail Breaks Micro LED Barriers; First Solutions Set for Global Debut at AES in UAE

DUBAI, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Beijing Zhongwei Sail Technology Co., Ltd. (“ZW-Sail”), a pioneer in Micro LED semiconductor micro-display systems, today announced the successful tape-out of its first process verification chip. Achieving critical performance breakthroughs, the company’s inaugural solutions will make their international debut at the 19th AES Consumer Electronics Show in the UAE this December.

Despite being established less than a year ago, ZW-Sail has demonstrated remarkable “China Speed,” setting multiple industry records through its agile execution:

  • World’s First DRSP chip architecture.
  • Industry First parallel three-color R&D mechanism to solve complex matching issues.
  • Proprietary S2W process design.
  • Global Record for full-color display brightness, far exceeding the industry’s current highest benchmarks.
  • Industry Lowest heterogeneous bonding cost.

As an ecosystem innovator in Micro LED—widely regarded as the “Ultimate Display” technology—ZW-Sail employs a unique heterogeneous stacking solution. This approach overcomes long-standing global challenges regarding luminous efficiency and full-color maturation. The company has successfully conquered the sub-2-micron pixel high-precision design barrier. Its full-color brightness far exceeds the industry’s current highest performance benchmarks, establishing a significant lead in both brightness and energy efficiency.

Empowering Frontier Applications and Driving Multi-Billion Dollar Markets
On the application front, micro-display chips are regarded as the core engine driving the surging AR glasses market, which boasts an annual growth rate exceeding 100%. Leveraging inherent advantages such as high brightness, low power consumption, and long lifespan, Micro LED technology is steadily replacing traditional display solutions across multiple key sectors.

However, ZW-Sail’s advanced chip technology extends far beyond AR. Taking Visible Light Communication (VLC) as an example, Micro LED is recognized as a key technology for next-generation aerospace communication and ultra-high-speed short-range interconnects.

Unlike traditional solutions, ZW-Sail’s chips offer distinct advantages for next-generation connectivity:

  • Ultra-High Modulation Bandwidth: Enabling the high-speed data transmission essential for 6G networks.
  • Superior Signal Intensity: High brightness ensures robust connectivity.
  • Array Integration: This structure boosts total capacity, allowing for massive parallel communication and precise directional links.
  • Efficiency: Maintaining low power consumption for short-range optical interconnects.

Empowering Frontier Applications
The technology also empowers high-end sectors, specifically:

  • Aerospace: High-reliability solutions for both secure optical communications and mission-critical displays.
  • Smart Automotive: Pixelated intelligent headlights.
  • Advanced Manufacturing: High-resolution maskless lithography.
  • Biotech: Optogenetics and embodied AI.

Elite R&D Heritage
The core team comprises veterans from China’s top-tier “National Optoelectronic Team” and international institutes. With over 20 years of semiconductor experience, members previously led designs for specialized optical interaction modules and participated in China’s earliest mass-produced silicon-based micro-displays.

About ZW-Sail
Beijing Zhongwei Sail Technology Co., Ltd. focuses on Micro LED chip design, process development, and application solutions. The company is dedicated to solving industrialization bottlenecks to provide high-performance chips for global consumer electronics, communications, and frontier technologies.