Home Blog Page 1762

SUNJOY Expands Global Footprint With UK Launch and Ambitious European Growth Strategy for 2026

A new era of design innovation and outdoor living excellence begins

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SUNJOY, the world’s leading innovator in outdoor living solutions, today announced a major leap forward in its global expansion with the official launch of its dedicated UK website, sunjoyshop.co.uk, in September 2025. The expansion marks a strategic milestone as the company strengthens its presence across Europe and prepares for deeper market penetration in 2026.

For more than 24 years, SUNJOY has earned the trust of over 10 million households worldwide, delivering premium outdoor structures known for craftsmanship, durability, and user-centered engineering. With a rapidly expanding e-commerce network covering the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Europe, SUNJOY is redefining what modern outdoor living can look like — combining localized service, faster fulfillment, and curated collections tailored to regional lifestyles.

Global Strategy Powered by Innovation: The Kingston Series

At the core of SUNJOY’s international strategy is its flagship Kingston Gazebo Series, a pinnacle of engineering built for long-lasting performance and elevated outdoor comfort. Designed with real consumer feedback in mind, Kingston transforms everyday backyards into stunning, functional, all-season destinations.

The SUNJOY Kingston Gazebo brings comfort, style, and engineered durability together—turning everyday outdoor moments into beautiful sunset gatherings.
The SUNJOY Kingston Gazebo brings comfort, style, and engineered durability together—turning everyday outdoor moments into beautiful sunset gatherings.

Built for beauty, strength, and simplicity, Kingston features:

  • 25% vent-to-roof ratio — larger than typical two-tier roofs for superior airflow and cooler comfort.
  • 2 ft elevated vent height — enabling stronger vertical ventilation and fresher air circulation.
  • 27° roof pitch — engineered for faster rain and snow runoff, enhancing year-round durability.
  • Streamlined modular system with 40% fewer screws — reducing installation time while delivering a cleaner, more refined finish.
  • Aluminum beams with 300% improved rust resistance — ensuring long-lasting strength through all weather conditions.

These innovations reinforce SUNJOY’s commitment to solving real outdoor living challenges — from heat management and weather resilience to effortless installation and long-term maintenance savings.

A Human-Centered Approach to Outdoor Living

“Our UK launch is more than expanding to a new market — it’s a milestone in building SUNJOY into a truly global lifestyle brand,” said Linda, CEO of SUNJOY. “We design for real families, real homes, and real moments. Understanding how people live outdoors guides every engineering decision we make. Quality begins with people — then innovation follows.”

Design Legacy, Future Vision

From its beginnings as a small workshop to becoming a global authority in outdoor living, SUNJOY has consistently elevated the standard for backyard architecture. Its product portfolio spans hardtop gazebos, louvered pergolas, fire pits, carports, outdoor structures, and patio furniture — all crafted with precision and engineered to last for years.

As SUNJOY accelerates toward deeper European expansion in 2026, the company continues to invest in innovative materials, modular construction systems, sustainable craftsmanship, and user-friendly assembly. The mission remains clear: make high-quality outdoor living accessible, enjoyable, and long lasting for families worldwide.

About SUNJOY

Founded in 2001, SUNJOY is a global pioneer in outdoor living, providing gazebos, pergolas, carports, fire pits, and premium outdoor furniture designed to elevate everyday outdoor spaces. With operations across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Europe — and more than 10 million gazebos sold worldwide — SUNJOY remains dedicated to innovation, design excellence, and customer-centered craftsmanship.

For more information, visit:

www.sunjoyshop.com | www.sunjoyshop.ca | www.sunjoyshop.co.uk | www.sunjoyonline.eu

 

Minesto part of Swedish business delegation to Canada in connection with the royal couple’s state visit

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This week ocean energy technology developer Minesto is participating in a Swedish business delegation to Canada in connection with the royal couple’s state visit. The delegation, led by the Swedish Minister for Energy and Business and Minister for Defence, aims to strengthen Swedish-Canadian relations and promote innovation with focus on AI, defence & security and electrification. With significant ocean resources with tidal streams and political support for ocean energy, Canada is a highly attractive market for Minesto.

Minesto CEO Dr Martin Edlund is taking part in the delegation to strengthen relationships with Canadian stakeholders and expand business opportunities. The programme includes interactive high-level forums and tailored company visits in Ottawa and Montréal. With significant tidal resources well suited for Minesto’s powerplants and growing political support for ocean energy, the visit to Canada is of strategic importance for Minesto.

Today, 19 November, Minesto is participating in Sweden Canada Innovation Days 2025, funded by Vinnova and the Swedish Energy Agency. The conference offers opportunities for Minesto to connect with industry leaders, academia and government representatives to explore partnerships and funding opportunities.

Commenting on the mission, organiser Business Sweden’s CEO Jan Larsson states in a press release: “Canada is a strategic partner with strong industries in clean energy, advanced technology, and defence & security. Through this delegation, Swedish companies can build long-term relationships with Canadian partners across a range of sectors“.

For more information, see Swedish business delegation to Canada focusing on AI, defence & security, and electrification in connection with the royal couple’s state visit – Business Sweden

Press contact
Cecilia Sernhage, Chief Communications Officer
+46 735 23 71 58
press@minesto.com 

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/minesto-ab/r/minesto-part-of-swedish-business-delegation-to-canada-in-connection-with-the-royal-couple-s-state-vi,c4269607

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/14621/4269607/3795064.pdf

PR 191125 Minesto part of Swedish business delegation to Canada in connection with royal couple state visit

 

Taiwan Medical Textile Alliance Achieves Breakthrough in Thailand’s Healthcare Market with Cross-Industry Collaboration


TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 November 2025 – To address the export challenges faced by Taiwan’s textile industry amid global trade and tariff pressures, leading functional and smart textiles manufacturer, Asiatic Fiber Corporation, has initiated cross-industry collaboration between textile and medical equipment companies, establishing the “Taiwan Medical Textile Alliance” with support from the Taiwanese government.

Photo 1 (Thailand 醫療紡織).jpg

With Thailand’s recent growth in medical tourism and the implementation of Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) policies, the demand for reusable and sterilizable medical garments has increased. Therefore, the alliance introduced high-value medical textile products tailored for the Thai market, including the “Air Scrub Suit” and graphene-based “Pain Relief Sleeves.”

In September, the alliance successfully participated in Thailand’s largest medical exhibition, Medical Fair Thailand 2025, and hosted a large-scale product debut showcase. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand, the Thai Garment Manufacturers Association (TGMA), and the Thai-Taiwan Business Association. Professional models presented the alliance’s new products through a roadshow-style demonstration, attracting interest from leading Thai medical apparel manufacturers such as Paladin Workwear and P.J. Garment. Representatives from local public and private hospitals, as well as rehabilitation centers, also expressed strong interest in the alliance’s products. Through these efforts—combined with the use of AI tools for customer feedback analysis and LinkedIn-based targeted marketing—the alliance significantly enhanced the visibility of Taiwan’s medical textile products in Thailand, achieving over US$580,000 in confirmed orders and establishing a strong presence in the Thai healthcare market.

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

KOI Founder Named to Forbes China’s 2025 Top 100 Most Influential Chinese


NEW YORK CITY, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 November 2025 – KOI, the globally recognized premium bubble tea brand, proudly announces that its founder, Khloe Ma, has been named one of Forbes China’s 2025 Top 100 Most Influential Chinese, in the Value Creator category. The honor recognizes entrepreneurs and business leaders whose companies demonstrate exceptional growth and high market value through innovation and leadership. These companies are rapidly rising in both traditional industries and emerging sectors, driven by new thinking and innovation.

image-1.jpeg

Selected from thousands of nominees across industries, Khloe Ma earned recognition for KOI’s pioneering role in redefining modern tea culture and its success in expanding premium Asian beverage experiences to the global audiences. Operating under the KOI and FIFTYLAN brands in different markets, the company has built a strong international presence with a loyal following across Asia, North America, and Europe.

“This award represents more than personal recognition — it celebrates every partner, employee, and customer who has believed in KOI’s vision,” said Ma. “We started with one simple goal: to bring joy to everyone through an authentic cup of tea. This recognition from Forbes China inspires us to continue building bridges between cultures and markets.”

20251119KOI Founder Named IMAGE

A Vision Beyond Borders

KOI’s rise mirrors the evolution of Asian brands on the global stage — innovative, quality-driven, and culturally confident. Founded on the belief that tea could be both a cultural expression and a lifestyle symbol, KOI blends traditional craftsmanship with a modern retail experience.

Today, KOI operates more than 600 outlets across 15 countries worldwide, offering a diverse menu that celebrates the artistry of modern bubble tea while keeping to its authentic tea roots. Its focus on sourcing high-quality ingredients and maintaining consistent global standards has earned KOI recognition as a leading brand in the premium beverage segment.

Beyond retail, KOI has strengthened its identity as a purpose-driven brand, advancing environmental sustainability and promoting diversity and equity across its global teams.

Recognition Reflecting Global Momentum

The Forbes China Top 100 Most Influential Chinese list highlights individuals who drive innovation and foster positive social and economic impact. The 2025 honorees include leaders from sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, design, and consumer brands — leaders who are shaping Asia’s global narrative through creativity and entrepreneurship.

For KOI, this accolade underscores its continued commitment to brand excellence and international expansion. The company’s strategic approach — balancing authenticity with adaptability — has positioned it as an ideal partner for co-ventures seeking to enter or expand within the dynamic Asian and global markets.

Building the Future of Global Tea Culture

In recent years, KOI has invested heavily in sustainability and digital transformation, implementing responsible sourcing practices, and data-driven customer engagement platforms. These initiatives align with a new generation of consumers who value quality, transparency, and purpose-driven brands.

The company’s upcoming initiatives include:

  • Co-venture programs designed to empower local entrepreneurs and potential investment partners for local expansion.
  • Tea innovation labs focusing on creative products and ingredient exploration with environmentally responsible production.
  • Global lifestyle partnerships merging beverage culture with design, art and entertainment.

Through these efforts, KOI aims to redefine how tea culture contributes to bridging communities and inspiring shared growth — and ultimately, to be part of everyone’s daily beat.

“Khloe’s inclusion in the Forbes China list reflects the values we stand for,” said Cavin Lau, KOI’s Chief Business Officer. “It’s a recognition of how thoughtful innovation, cultural appreciation, and partnership can together create lasting impact.”

Hashtag: #KOIBrand #BubbleTea #PremiumBeverage #ForbesChinaTop100 #KhloeMa #AsianBrandsGlobal #FiftyLan #ConsumerInnovation #Entrepreneurship #GlobalExpansion

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

About KOI

Founded in 2006, KOI is a global premium beverage brand known for its commitment to authentic tea craftsmanship and innovation. The company operates under the KOI and FIFTYLAN brands in various markets, offering signature drinks such as its Golden Bubble Milk Tea and creative seasonal collections. With operations across Asia, North America, and Europe, KOI has become a symbol of modern tea culture and cross-cultural connection.

Cyberport and Telkom University Formed Partnership to Accelerate HK Tech Expansion in ASEAN and Belt & Road


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 November 2025 – Cyberport formed partnership by exchanging a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Telkom University (Tel-U) on 17 November 2025, Indonesia’s leading private technology university, and its innovation hub, Bandung Techno Park, to deepen collaboration between Hong Kong and Indonesia in innovation and technology.

Cyberport formed partnership by exchanging a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Telkom University (Tel-U) on 17 November 2025, Indonesia’s leading private technology university, and its innovation hub, Bandung Techno Park, to deepen collaboration between Hong Kong and Indonesia in innovation and technology. Dennis Tedja, Cyberport Ambassador for Indonesia (second from left), and Professor Dr Suyanto, S.T., M.Sc Rector of Telkom University (third from right), exchanged the MoU in Indonesia.
Cyberport formed partnership by exchanging a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Telkom University (Tel-U) on 17 November 2025, Indonesia’s leading private technology university, and its innovation hub, Bandung Techno Park, to deepen collaboration between Hong Kong and Indonesia in innovation and technology. Dennis Tedja, Cyberport Ambassador for Indonesia (second from left), and Professor Dr Suyanto, S.T., M.Sc Rector of Telkom University (third from right), exchanged the MoU in Indonesia.

The partnership focuses on technology transfer, mentorship for start-ups and access to global markets, with a particular emphasis on two-way expansion between Hong Kong and Indonesia. It helps accelerate technology innovations from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland into emerging ASEAN markets under the Belt and Road Initiative, while attracting high-calibre start-ups and entrepreneurs from Indonesia into Cyberport.

The collaboration will prioritise projects in AI, Web3.0, smart city solutions, e-farming and digital creative industries. Tel-U and Bandung Techno Park will serve as a gateway and soft landing partner for Cyberport companies and innovators entering Indonesia, while Cyberport will provide a platform for Indonesian start-ups to connect with investors, partners from the Chinese Mainland and international markets.

Stanley Wan, Director-General (Acting) of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office – Jakarta, said, “The MOU opens new gateways for both ecosystems to collaborate from artificial intelligence, Web3, smart city development, to other high-potential fields, generating opportunities for start-ups and innovators.”

Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, stated, “As Cyberport actively serves as a ‘super-connector’ and ‘super value-adder’ connecting Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and the world, this partnership with Telkom University exemplifies our international two-way platform to advance innovation and entrepreneurship across borders by linking Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland start-ups with high-potential markets in ASEAN along the Belt and Road Initiative and facilitating ASEAN companies to tap the high-growth markets on the Mainland. By synergising our ecosystems, we are creating a broader international stage for Hong Kong and Indonesian start-ups, helping them capture high-growth opportunities in ASEAN, while pooling technology, global talent, investments and innovation resources in Hong Kong, and thus reinforcing our city’s position as an international I&T hub.”

Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport
Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport

The initiative is designed to support Indonesia’s Asta Cita 2045 vision, especially in digital talent and innovation-driven growth, while aligning with Hong Kong’s role as a “super-connector” for the Belt and Road and ASEAN region.

Tubagus Nugraha, Executive Director of the National Economic Council, said, “We hope this partnership strengthen our global innovation networks and accelerate Indonesia’s path toward becoming a more digital, innovative, and competitive nation.”

Professor Dr Suyanto, S.T., M.Sc Rector of Telkom University, said, “Through this collaboration, we hope to accelerate innovation connectivity between Indonesia and Hong Kong and pave the way for our mentored start-ups to make a significant impact in the global market.”

The MoU establishes a framework for joint activities that will support tech companies from both ecosystems. Key initiatives include:

  • Encourage tech industry growth by guiding Indonesian tech companies to leverage Cyberport as a springboard to Hong Kong’s thriving sectors such as AI, FinTech, blockchain and smart city solution, and other emerging technologies.
  • Introduce proof-of-concept and pilot implementation opportunities in Indonesia for Cyberport start-ups, facilitating their expansion into Indonesian & ASEAN markets.
  • Connect Cyberport companies to access Tel-U’s partnership networks for business integration and investment opportunities for Cyberport start-ups.
  • Provide assistance, investments and resources for high-calibre Indonesian companies to take foot in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland markets by landing in Cyberport and leveraging Cyberport partnership networks and industry initiatives.

Dennis Tedja, Cyberport Ambassador for Indonesia, and Professor Dr Suyanto, S.T., M.Sc Rector of Telkom University, exchanged the MoU in Indonesia.

Cyberport actively serves as a “super-connector” and “super value-adder”, enabling over 330 Cyberport-incubated companies to expand into more than 35 overseas markets, while one-third of on-site company founders originate from 27 countries and regions. Among the high-growth markets along the Belt and Road, more than 80 Cyberport companies have expanded to ASEAN including Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, while over 30 start-ups have expanded to the Middle East markets.

Meanwhile, Cyberport has continued to expand global alliances to facilitate cross-regional growth of tech ecosystems and expansion of Hong Kong tech innovation on a global stage. Cyberport has forged strategic partnerships with UAE’s accelerator Hub71, Saudi Arabia’s national technology park KACST, Dubai Future Foundation, Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) and InnoSpace, Korea’s largest start-up accelerator d.camp, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Draper Dragon from the US Silicon Valley. This growing global network positions Cyberport as an international two-way platform for Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland tech companies to access high-growth Belt and Road markets and for overseas companies to access the Chinese Mainland. Cyberport will continue to build an international and diverse ecosystem, bringing together innovative talent, technology, investments and resources, and actively attracting more talent from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and overseas.

Hashtag: #Cyberport

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

About Hong Kong Cyberport

Wholly owned by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, Cyberport is Hong Kong’s digital tech hub and AI accelerator, with a vision to empower industry digitalisation and intelligent transformation, to promote digital economy and AI development, and to foster Hong Kong to be an international AI, innovation and technology (I&T) hub. Cyberport gathers over 2,300 companies, including 13 listed companies and 10 unicorns. One-third of onsite companies’ founders come from 27 countries and regions, while Cyberport companies have expanded to over 35 global markets.

Cyberport, with Hong Kong’s largest AI Supercomputing Centre and AI Lab as the engine, has been building the AI ecosystem with industry-leading AI companies and over 500 AI and data science start-ups. Through development of tech clusters, namely AI, data science, blockchain and cybersecurity, Cyberport empowers industries across smart city and government, banking and finance, digital entertainment, culture and tourism, healthcare, education and training, property management, construction, transportation and logistics, green environment and more, while hosting Hong Kong’s largest FinTech community. Commissioned by the HKSAR Government, Cyberport has implemented proof-of-concept and sandbox schemes, subsidisation for digital tech adoption, industry tech training and start-up incubation, to drive technology R&D, translation and commercialisation, thus propelling digital transformation and intelligent upgrade across industry and society.

Also as “State-level Scientific and Technological Enterprise Incubator” and Hong Kong’s key incubator, Cyberport supports entrepreneurs with funding and office space, extensive networks of enterprises, investors, technology corporations and professional services for business growth and expansion to Chinese Mainland and overseas markets, all-round facilitation for landing in Hong Kong, talent attraction and cultivation, ready as a launchpad to take start-ups in any stages of development to the next level.

For more information, please visit .

About Telkom University

Telkom University is the best private university in Indonesia, committed to the development of education, research, and innovation in the fields of technology, business, and digital creativity. With the vision of becoming a National Excellence in Entrepreneurial University based on SAFE AI (Secure/Sustainable, Accurate, Fair, and Explainable Artificial Intelligence) by 2028, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Telkom University continues to enhance global competitiveness through international collaboration, strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and accelerating digital transformation.

Bandung Techno Park (BTP) is a center for innovation, business incubation, and technology development located within the Telkom University area in Bandung. BTP serves as a bridge between universities, industries, and the government to foster the creation of start-ups, applied research, and market-ready technology products. Its facilities include coworking spaces, incubation programs, and business mentoring to support Indonesia’s innovation ecosystem.

For more information, please visit .

Newton™ (Formerly Neurolens®) Partners with Hong Kong Optical Lens to Bring Therapeutic and Preventive Vision Solutions to Hong Kong and China Markets

DALLAS, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Newton™, Inc. (formerly Neurolens®), a leader in innovative eye care technology, today announced its expansion into Asian markets through a strategic partnership with Hong Kong Optical Lens Co Ltd (HKO) as the exclusive distributor for Hong Kong and China. This milestone in Newton’s international growth brings the therapeutic solution of Neurolens for headaches, neck pain, and motion sickness, along with the everyday digital eye strain prevention of Sequel™ lenses, to millions across two of the world’s most digitally connected markets.

 

This partnership represents Newton’s first major expansion into Asia. Hong Kong’s healthcare infrastructure makes it ideal for Newton’s complete portfolio, while China’s 1 billion internet users and position as the world’s largest smartphone market creates significant opportunity for the Sequel everyday lens. The arrival of Newton’s therapeutic and everyday lens solutions is eagerly anticipated across both markets.

Newton’s expansion into Hong Kong is supported by HKO’s strategic partner CMER Eye Centers, which has integrated the Neurolens N3 measurement device into its practice. In support of advancing eye care education, HKO, together with Newton, have donated N3 devices to The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Optometry, one of Asia’s most prestigious optometry programs, enabling future eye care professionals to train on this innovative technology.

Newton’s Vision Solutions

Neurolens Therapeutic System: The N3 diagnostic device provides objective measurement of eye misalignment. Neurolens therapeutic lenses use patented Contoured Prism™ technology to alleviate visual misalignments leading to headaches, neck pain, motion sickness, and eye strain, delivering relief for up to 90% of symptomatic patients.

Sequel Everyday Lens: Designed for daily wear to prevent and alleviate digital eye strain, proprietary Convergence Boost™ technology provides comfortable vision for extended screen time.

“This partnership marks a pivotal moment in Newton’s global expansion,” said Davis Corley, Newton CEO. “Hong Kong Optical Lens’ market expertise positions us to bring relief to millions experiencing headaches, neck pain, motion sickness, and digital eye strain. This is just the beginning of Newton’s international growth.”

Eddie So, Managing Director of Hong Kong Optical Lens, added, “Our legacy is rooted in a partner-first philosophy, working closely with global brands, to transform market insights into reality. We are excited to partner with Newton to bring the cutting-edge Neurolens and Sequel technologies to Hong Kong and China.”

About Newton
Newton is an innovation company transforming eye care through exceptional patient experiences and outcomes. With patented Contoured Prism technology in the Neurolens portfolio and breakthrough Convergence Boost technology in Sequel lenses, Newton empowers eye care providers to deliver measurable relief while elevating the standard of care industry wide.

For more information, visit www.newton.tech.

About Hong Kong Optical Lens
For over 50 years, Hong Kong Optical Lens Co Ltd (HKO) has stood at the forefront of Asia’s optical manufacturing industry. Headquartered in Hong Kong, HKO operates a powerful integrated network—supported by 3,000 employees, 13 specialized facilities, and 8 international offices—to offer end-to-end manufacturing from concept to quality-assured delivery. By uniting cutting-edge innovation with precision manufacturing, HKO produces the next generation of high-performance lenses and frames that define market trends and meet the dynamic demands of consumers worldwide. 

The Timeless Wisdom of Rivers: Collaboration and Shared Vision


NANJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 November 2025 – From November 21 to 22, the 2025 Yangtze Culture Forum will be held in Nanjing, China. This gathering will bring together global scholars in river studies, ecological conservation experts, cultural ambassadors, and representatives from international waterfront cities for intercontinental dialogues on topics such as aquatic culture preservation, sustainable water resource utilization, and mutual learning among great river civilizations to explore collaborative solutions.

Caption: Post of Yangtze Culture Forum.
Caption: Post of Yangtze Culture Forum.

The Yangtze River, known as the cradle of Chinese civilization, is the world’s third-longest river and flows through 24 major cities along its course. Nanjing, located in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, is a megacity within China’s Yangtze River Delta economic hub. In 1979, Nanjing and St. Louis, situated along the Mississippi River, became sister cities, marking the first such partnership established between China and the United States after the establishment of diplomatic relations. As inscribed on the brocade banner presented by Nanjing to St. Louis: “May the friendship between the people of Nanjing and St. Louis be as enduring as the Yangtze and Mississippi Rivers.” These two great rivers stand as enduring witnesses to the friendship between two cities and two nations.

Caption: Post of Yangtze Culture Forum.
Caption: Post of Yangtze Culture Forum.

Indeed, over the 46 years since establishing sister-city ties, Nanjing and St. Louis have engaged in profound and sustained exchanges across trade, culture, education, and other fields. Back in 1992, St. Louis-based company Purina invested and established operations in Nanjing. In the early 2000s, Emerson established R&D and procurement centers in the city. In 1994, Nanjing built the Margaret Grigg Nanjing Friendship Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis. This garden now serves as the venue for the annual “Chinese Culture Day” celebrations. This year, Nanjing musicians reinterpreted the American baseball anthem Take Me Out to the Ballgame using traditional Chinese instruments during the event, resonating deeply with the audience.

Last April, Nanjing brought the art of Chinese characters to the banks of the Hudson River. An exhibition titled “Chinese Characters: A Journey of Creation, Connection and Harmony” opened at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in celebration of the 15th Chinese Language Day. The theme centered on the characters “和” (connection) and “合” (harmony), embodying the ideals of harmony, peace, cooperation, and alignment.

In the works of Mark Twain, the Mississippi River serves not only as the most iconic geographic symbol in American literature, but also as a spiritual vessel carrying profound social critique and exploration of humanity. For Nanjing, a UNESCO “City of Literature”, the Yangtze River is more than just a “golden waterway” in the geographical sense; it is a “river of the soul” in the literary sense. Setting sail from Wumadu in Nanjing, a cruise on the Yangtze River transforms the abstract notion of a “spiritual river” into a tangible, flowing epic. Along the banks, literary landmarks such as Qixia Mountain, Mufu Mountain, and Swallow Rock have inspired poetic masterpieces for over a millennium. On the water, the finless porpoises emerge like elfin presences beside the vessel, while elegant egrets and black-eared kites circle overhead. Thanks to Nanjing’s ecological conservation policies, the once-endangered finless porpoise has seen its population recover to approximately 65 in the Nanjing section of the Yangtze River by 2024. This makes the Nanjing stretch of the Yangtze River the world’s only case of a stable finless porpoise habitat within a densely populated megacity.

To further advance the shared values of humanity and deepen global understanding of the Yangtze River Basin, the forum will also feature a series of online and offline thematic exhibitions and interactive activities. These include the “Rivers * Humanity * Cities” theme exhibition, the “Reading the Yangtze River: A Journey for Global Think Tank Experts and Diplomats” event, and the “Me & River” social media campaign, all designed to promote the sustainable development of river cities through mutual learning among civilizations.

In 2019, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of its sister-city relationship with Nanjing, St. Louis designed a set of baseball-themed sculptures. Among them, the “American Pitcher” sculpture presented to Nanjing now stands in the Nanjing International Friendship Park along the Yangtze River, winding his pitch toward the direction of St. Louis. Meanwhile, its counterpart, the “Nanjing Batter” sculpture, was installed at Busch Stadium in downtown St. Louis, awaiting a pitch from across the ocean. This thoughtful interaction illustrates a simple yet profound truth: civilizations flourish through exchange and grow richer through mutual learning.
Hashtag: #YangtzeCultureForum

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

Thomas Coesfeld to Become New Chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann

  • The Bertelsmann Executive Board member will succeed Thomas Rabe on January 1, 2027
  • Supervisory Board Chairman Christoph Mohn praises Thomas Coesfeld as a successful entrepreneurial leader
  • Clément Schwebig to join the Bertelsmann Executive Board as future CEO of RTL Group on May 1, 2026

GÜTERSLOH, Germany, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thomas Coesfeld will become the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bertelsmann. The Supervisory Board of the international media, services and education company made the decision. The 35-year-old Bertelsmann Executive Board member will succeed Thomas Rabe (60) on January 1, 2027, after Rabe’s contract expires on December 31, 2026, marking the end of his 15-year tenure as Chairman and CEO. Coesfeld has been CEO of the BMG division since 2023 and a member of the Bertelsmann Executive Board since 2024. The Supervisory Board has also appointed Clément Schwebig (48) to the Bertelsmann Executive Board as the future CEO of RTL Group, effective May 1, 2026.

Christoph Mohn, Chairman of the Bertelsmann Supervisory Board, said: “On behalf of the Supervisory Board, I would like to congratulate Thomas Coesfeld on his appointment as the next Chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann. As both an entrepreneur and a manager, he has all the qualities needed to lead Bertelsmann successfully and ensure the company’s continuity. Over the past ten years at Bertelsmann, I have come to know Thomas Coesfeld as an entrepreneurial leader. In recent years, he has taken the music company BMG to significantly higher levels of revenue and earnings and positioned it even more firmly for the streaming age. His appointment marks a generational change in Bertelsmann’s leadership. I wish him every success and a steady entrepreneurial hand.”

Thomas Rabe, Chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann, said: “I am very pleased with the Supervisory Board’s decision and congratulate Thomas Coesfeld on behalf of the entire Executive Board. We have worked closely and with great trust for many years, and I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition. Bertelsmann’s leadership will be in excellent hands with him and his team.”

Thomas Coesfeld, CEO of BMG and future Chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann, said: “I would like to thank the Supervisory Board – and in particular its Chairman, Christoph Mohn – for the trust they have placed in me. I am very much looking forward to assuming responsibility for leading Bertelsmann. It is a challenge I will take on with the full support of the Executive Board, top management, and all employees.”

Regarding the appointment of Clément Schwebig to the Bertelsmann Executive Board, Supervisory Board Chairman Christoph Mohn said: “Clément Schwebig has more than 20 years of experience as a media executive, including ten years in various management positions at RTL Group. He will continue to drive forward the transformation of RTL’s businesses and, in particular, further expand its streaming and production activities.”

Bertelsmann Chairman and CEO Thomas Rabe added: “Clément Schwebig knows RTL Group well, having worked for the company in senior positions in several countries between 2002 and 2013. In addition to his media expertise, he brings valuable insights into the growth markets of Asia, where Bertelsmann also aims to expand further. I know and value Clément Schwebig – we have worked together for many years – and I look forward to handing over the leadership of RTL Group to him.”

About Thomas Coesfeld

Thomas Coesfeld began his career in 2014 as a management consultant at McKinsey after studying business administration in Vallendar, Washington, and Atlanta. Following various roles within Bertelsmann businesses, he became Chief Strategy Officer of Mohn Media in 2018. In 2019, he assumed the same role for the entire Bertelsmann Printing Group (now Bertelsmann Marketing Services) and joined its management board. In 2020, Coesfeld moved to the management board of BMG, becoming CFO in April 2021 and CEO in July 2023. He will continue in this role in a dual capacity. In July 2024, Thomas Coesfeld was appointed to the Bertelsmann Executive Board.

Thomas Coesfeld is married and lives in Berlin and Gütersloh.

About Clément Schwebig

Clément Schwebig began his career in 1999 as an M&A analyst at JP Morgan Chase after earning a master’s degree in management from HEC Paris Business School and in corporate law from the Sorbonne. After more than a decade in various management positions at RTL Group, he moved to Hong Kong in 2013 as Asia Head of Business Development & Digital, General Manager China, and CFO Asia Pacific at Time Warner/Turner. He later served as President and Managing Director of Warner Bros. Discovery in Asia, based in Singapore, before being appointed President & Managing Director of Warner Bros. Discovery – Western Europe & Africa in 2023.

Clément Schwebig is a French citizen. He is married and has two children.

About Bertelsmann

Bertelsmann is a media, services and education company with about 75,000 employees that operates in some 50 countries around the world. It includes the entertainment group RTL Group, the trade book publisher Penguin Random House, the music company BMG, the service provider Arvato Group, Bertelsmann Marketing Services, the Bertelsmann Education Group and Bertelsmann Investments, an international network of funds. The company generated revenues of €19 billion in the 2024 financial year. Bertelsmann stands for creativity and entrepreneurship. This combination enables first-class media offerings and innovative service solutions that inspire customers around the world.
www.bertelsmann.com

Contact
Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA
Markus Harbaum
Senior Vice President Communications Content Team
Spokesperson
Phone: +49 5241 80-24 66
markus.harbaum@bertelsmann.de