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SKF to showcase scalable, customer-focused innovations at 2025 Tech and Innovation Summit

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At this year’s Tech and Innovation Summit, SKF will introduce a broad range of new products and technologies designed to help industrial customers reduce downtime, improve reliability and performance, and make better use of data. The virtual event, themed “From Insight to Impact,” will highlight how SKF is translating deep customer understanding into practical solutions that deliver measurable results – solutions that create less friction and enable more progress across industries.

The innovations being presented include compact solutions that simplify integration and reduce unplanned stops, Digital twin technologies that simulate and optimize performance before production begins and Data-driven tools that turn machine data into insights for enterprise-wide decision-making.

“In a competitive landscape, staying ahead means turning insight into action. That’s how we create value for our customers and for the industries we support. The technologies we’re presenting reflect our commitment to solving real operational challenges such as reducing downtime, improving efficiency, and enabling smarter decisions. As we move forward in building two focused, world-leading businesses, innovation will continue to remain central to how we serve our customers,” says Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO.

SKF’s strategy is centered on delivering value in attractive segments such as machine tools, railways, metals, mining, industrial electrical, agriculture and food and beverage. More than 90% of the company’s R&D efforts are now focused on these areas.

“Our innovation efforts are grounded in customer needs and shaped by the realities of their operations. We’re working closely with customers to co-develop solutions that are easier to implement, more reliable in operation, and better aligned with their business goals. We develop solutions that are not only technically advanced but also scalable and easy to implement. By delivering technologies that make a measurable difference in performance, reliability, and sustainability, we help our customers stay competitive,” says Annika Ölme, CTO and Senior Vice President, Technology Development.

Join us on September 18 to see how SKF is helping customers move from insight to action – delivering less friction and more progress. A replay of the summit will be available on the website for on demand watch.

Read more on the Tech and Innovation Summit

The live webcast of the event will be available via this Teams meeting link – https://skf.li/vmk7ps

  • Sep 18: 10 am CET (EMEA), 10 am IST (India and Southeast Asia), 9 am PT / 12 pm ET (Americas)
  • Sep 19: 12 pm CST (China and Northeast Asia)

Technologies to be showcased at the Tech & Innovation summit:

Agri Hub T400 for Tillage

Built for harsh conditions, designed for productivity
The Agri Hub T400 is engineered for large-scale farming and tough soil conditions, delivering up to 4x better performance in contaminated environments against our standard Agri Hub thanks to SKF’s patented Mudblock seal. With flexible mounting options and three sealing levels tailored to farm size, it extends service life and boosts tillage equipment efficiency, helping farmers reduce downtime and increase productivity.

Low Friction TBU for Railways

Reducing energy use, extending maintenance intervals
SKF’s new low-friction Tapered Bearing Unit (TBU) for railways has shown up to 14% energy savings in pilot applications. In one case, wheelset bearings accounted for 7% of total train energy losses, implying the TBU’s contribution to overall savings is around 1%. The unit is also available as a digital twin focused on replicating bearing energy losses, allowing customers to run realistic virtual tests within vehicle simulations. Validated in real-world conditions, it lowers operating temperatures and extends maintenance intervals, supporting more efficient and sustainable rail operations.

SKF Food Line Ball Bearing Units

Cleaner, safer, longer-lasting
Innovated for the demanding food and beverage industry, SKF’s Food Line ball bearing units offer multiple benefits, while eliminating relubrication – which means no more excess lubrication needs, reduced risk of food contamination by grease and accidents, as well as an increase in bearing life. The design reduces water and energy use during cleaning, prevents contamination, and supports customers’ sustainability goals and food safety standards.

SKF Observer PI Connector

One view, deeper insights
The new SKF Observer PI Connector enables seamless integration of vibration and process data into AVEVA PI systems using AVEVA’s recommended method. Developed with AVEVA, it delivers more contextualized data, better insights, and scalable deployment, creating a single source of truth for smarter decision-making and reduced operational complexity.

SDVD Housing for Conveyor Pulleys

Designed for Australia’s toughest mining conditions. Now available worldwide

SKF’s new conveyor pulley housing offers a compact, easy-to-install design with bolt-on end covers and advanced sealing for harsh environments. It enables design optimizations, extends service life and supports condition monitoring. Developed for OEM and end users, it boosts reliability and sustainability in bulk material handling systems.

SKF Seals Digital Twin

Simulate, diagnose, optimize
The SKF Seals Digital Twin simulates seal behavior under dynamic conditions, predicting friction and heat generation to support both new designs and troubleshooting. It enables faster root cause analysis and performance optimization, helping engineers reduce development time and improve system reliability to operate longer, cleaner and safer.

Aktiebolaget SKF
(publ)

For further information, please contact:
Aparna Srivastava, Head of Communication, Technology Development, +46 707 576 468; aparna.srivastava@skf.com

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

https://news.cision.com/skf/r/skf-to-showcase-scalable–customer-focused-innovations-at-2025-tech-and-innovation-summit,c4230352

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Envalior publishes its first Sustainability Report

  • Envalior today publishes its Sustainability Report, reinforcing its commitment to transparent reporting and providing detailed insights into the company’s progress and ambitions across environmental, social, and governance topics.
  • The company’s climate transition plan, which is one of the key initiatives detailed in the report, targets a 35% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 (with a baseline of 2024).
  • Further concrete sustainability commitments include switching to 100% renewable electricity, offering an entire portfolio of bio- and/or recycled-based alternatives by 2030, and actively engaging in industry collaborations and participating in the UN Global Compact.

DÜSSELDORF, Germany, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Envalior, a global leader in Engineering Materials, today publishes its first Sustainability Report, covering the period from January to December 2024. The report was prepared on a voluntary basis and includes a Double Materiality Assessment (DMA). By assessing its first full year of operations through a sustainability lens, the company reinforces its commitment to concrete progress on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) topics, based on a solid foundation of accurate and transparent corporate reporting. In addition, the report represents an important step toward compliance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).

Envalior's first Sustainability Report, covering the period from January to December 2024, was prepared on a voluntary basis and includes a Double Materiality Assessment (DMA).
Envalior’s first Sustainability Report, covering the period from January to December 2024, was prepared on a voluntary basis and includes a Double Materiality Assessment (DMA).

Leading the change in Engineering Materials     

Envalior is a trusted supplier to manufacturers in sectors such as Mobility, Electronics and Electrical (E&E), and Consumer Goods, a top-two global player in PA6 injection molding and extrusion grades, and a top-three player in high-temperature polyamides and in thermoplastic copolyester. Because of its unique role in the value chain, the company is well-positioned to deliver sustainable material solutions that help customers succeed in a fast-changing economy. Under the strategic umbrella of Envalior CARES, the company manages sustainability with a holistic approach focused on three pillars: Low CArbon, Sustainable REsources, and Social Responsibility. This enables Envalior to embed sustainability into its decision-making processes, ensuring its materials continue to play a role in the ongoing transition toward sustainability across industries.

“As a global leader and highly innovative player in Sustainable & High-Performance Engineering Materials, Envalior is here to set new standards in the industry and lead the change, says Calum MacLean, CEO of Envalior.

Introducing Envalior’s climate transition plan

A key part of Envalior CARES is Envalior’s climate transition plan. This sets out the company’s practical pathway to an additional 35% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 compared to the new baseline year of 2024. This is on top of the 65% Scope 1 and 2 reductions already achieved between 2016 and 2024 by Envalior’s predecessor companies, compared to the former baseline year of 2016. The plan encompasses 12 key actions, including a pathway to obtain all of the electricity used at its sites from renewable sources by 2030, a low-carbon heat program, electric steam generation, and the continued implementation of ISO 50001 and ISO 14001 environmental and energy management systems. In addition, the company will intensify engagement with its value chain partners to further address its Scope 3 GHG emissions. 

Through focussing our resources, cutting emissions, and integrating sustainable feedstocks into our portfolio, we are using proven technologies and robust processes to deliver real impact,” adds MacLean.

A holistic approach to sustainability management

In addition to climate change mitigation, the report covers Envalior’s actions and commitments across a wide range of ESG focus areas. Key developments include:

  • Envalior’s global health and safety program, which is resulting in consistent, organization-wide improvements across key safety metrics.
  • Engagement with the Operation Clean Sweep® initiative to prevent pellet loss through the rollout of best practices, training, and external site audits.
  • A commitment to providing an entire portfolio of bio- and/or recycled-based alternatives by 2030, supporting customers to reduce product carbon footprints.
  • The implementation of global Human Rights and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies, covering both own operations and value chains.
  • Continued participation in the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) initiative, integrating UNGC values into the company’s strategy, culture, and operations.
  • Industry collaborations, including the Advanced Packaging Association (APA), PlasticsEurope, econsense, essenscia, the Royal Association of Dutch Chemical Industry (VNCI), and the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC).

Furthering transparency, sustainability, and industry collaboration

As the regulatory landscape for manufacturers becomes increasingly complex, the sustainability credentials of material suppliers worldwide are coming under greater scrutiny. By providing detailed insights into its own sustainability strategy, Envalior aims to further increase transparency across the industry and provide additional clarity for customers. As part of this ethos, continuing to work closely with stakeholders is essential to enabling long-term sustainability progress. Visitors to K 2025, the leading trade fair for plastics and rubber (Düsseldorf, 8-15 October), will be able to view a wide selection of Envalior’s sustainable material solutions, many of which have been developed jointly with customers. Envalior experts will also be available to discuss in detail the company’s sustainable material development strategy and its collaborative approach to innovation.

Envalior’s Sustainability Report 2024 is available to view on the company’s website via the following link.

About Envalior
Envalior is a global leader in Engineering Materials with over 4,000 employees worldwide. It was established in 2023 through the merger of Lanxess Performance Materials and DSM Engineering Materials. With a long track record of customer-driven innovation, Envalior specializes in developing Sustainable and High-Performance Engineering Materials. Focus markets include Mobility, Electronics & Electrical, and Consumer Goods. For more information, visit www.envalior.com

Forward-Looking Statements
This company release contains certain forward-looking statements, including assumptions, opinions, expectations and views of the company or cited from third-party sources. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could cause the actual results, financial position, development or performance of Envalior GmbH to differ materially from the estimates expressed or implied herein. Envalior GmbH does not guarantee that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements are free from errors, nor does it accept any responsibility for the future accuracy of the opinions expressed in this presentation or the actual occurrence of the forecast developments. No representation or warranty (expressed or implied) is made as to, and no reliance should be placed on, any information, estimates, targets and opinions contained herein, and no liability whatsoever is accepted as to any errors, omissions or misstatements contained herein, and accordingly, no representative of Envalior GmbH or any of its affiliated companies or any of such person’s officers, directors or employees accepts any liability whatsoever arising directly or indirectly from the use of this document.

 

JETOUR G700 Rolls Out to the Middle East, Setting a New Benchmark for Hybrid Off-Road

FUZHOU, China, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On September 2, JETOUR’s first premium hybrid off-road model, the G700, rolled off the production line in Fuzhou, China, and was shipped to the Middle East market. This marks the official beginning of JETOUR’s entry into the premium hybrid off-road segment, heralding a new chapter for the brand.

Since its global launch in 2019, JETOUR has sold over 1.93 million vehicles across 91 countries and regions. The brand has developed a diverse product portfolio, with models like the X70 gaining international recognition and achieving cumulative sales exceeding 960,000 units. The DASHING model has received numerous international accolades, including the titles of “Best Midsize SUV” in Saudi Arabia, “Recomendados Autocosmos 2024” in Chile, and “Best Design” in Egypt. The off-road series (T-series) has also gained rapid popularity worldwide, and become the best-selling model in its SUV segment in the Middle East. The launch of the G700 marks JETOUR’s entry into the premium hybrid off-road SUV market, ushering in a new phase of global expansion.

As JETOUR’s first premium hybrid off-road SUV, the G700 made its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, capturing wide attention with its bold design and luxurious presence. Built on JETOUR’s all-new generation all-terrain intelligent architecture — GAIA, the G700 has a solid foundation for performance and reliability. It showcases the brand’s latest achievements in hybrid technology. This model not only highlights JETOUR’s technological strength but also lays the foundation for its entry into the international premium hybrid off-road segment.

Mr. Ke Chuandeng, President of JETOUR International, emphasized that the G700 is significant for JETOUR not only as its first premium hybrid off-road model, but also as a carrier of the brand’s upward ambition. Under the guidance of the “Travel+” strategy, JETOUR will further cultivate a premium off-road image, and provide users with a more comfortable and personalized driving experience.

It is reported that in September, JETOUR will hold the G700’s first media preview in the UAE, providing an in-depth analysis of the vehicle’s technology and design philosophy, followed by its overseas launch in the Middle East in November. With the debut of the G700, JETOUR is set to truly usher in its own new era of premium hybrid off-road vehicles.

YOTEL Appoints Phil Andreopoulos as Chief Executive Officer

LONDON, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — YOTEL, the global hospitality brand known for its design and tech-led approach to modern travel, proudly announces the appointment of Phil Andreopoulos as Chief Executive Officer. His appointment follows the news that YOTEL’s majority shareholder, the Al-Bahar Group (‘the Group’), acquired an additional 30% stake in the company earlier this year increasing the Group’s holding in YOTEL to more than 95%. The investment underscored the Group’s confidence in the future of YOTEL and signals a bold new trajectory for the brand, as the company sets its sights on doubling its global hotel portfolio to 15,000 rooms by 2030.

Phil Andreopoulos, Chief Executive Officer, YOTEL
Phil Andreopoulos, Chief Executive Officer, YOTEL

Talal Al Bahar, Chairman, YOTEL and Al-Bahar Group comments: “YOTEL’s success over the last 15 years has been exemplary, from start-up concept into the global company it is today with an expansive portfolio of properties in prime locations.

Now, it is time to scale the business further. Phil Andreopoulos brings a wealth of commercial and operational experience and under his leadership, YOTEL will enhance its distribution, direct business contribution and loyalty proposition. He will also drive expansion of both the managed and franchise businesses in key markets.”

“I would like to personally thank Hubert Viriot for his instrumental role in driving YOTEL’s growth. We are delighted to welcome him as Vice Chairman, where his experience and vision will continue to add significant value to the company and its stakeholders.”

A seasoned leader with decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Andreopoulos joins YOTEL following a distinguished career at Marriott International, where he held multiple senior leadership roles across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

“I’m thrilled to join YOTEL at such a pivotal moment in its growth,” said Phil Andreopoulos. “The pioneering concept and global footprint mean YOTEL’s global recognition supersedes its size and that, paired with the agility of being independent, creates a unique opportunity to scale quickly and offer owners, investors and franchisees the speed and innovation they crave in the industry.

I look forward to working alongside the talented YOTEL team and the Board to build on the company’s strong foundation, expand our global presence and continue delivering unforgettable experiences for travellers around the world.”

Most recently, Andreopoulos served as Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA at Marriott International, where his responsibilities spanned Brand Management, Marketing, e-Commerce, Sales, Reservations, Revenue Management, Loyalty, Communications, and Consumer Insights across 78 countries and all Marriott brands.

Prior to this role, Andreopoulos served as Chief Operating Officer for Owner & Franchise Services EMEA and Sub-Saharan Africa, where he oversaw the successful growth and development of franchise operations, maximising the potential of the brand, systems and sales engines.

The announcement follows the appointment earlier in the year of Yvonne Thomsen as Chief Financial Officer. Yvonne joined YOTEL from IHG, where she held the role of VP Finance Europe and Chief Financial Officer for Six Senses Hotels. The appointment of Phil Andreopoulos represents a strategic leadership evolution designed to support YOTEL in its next chapter.

For more information, visit www.yotel.com.

 

ABOUT YOTEL

YOTEL is a global hospitality brand based in London, with regional offices in the US and Asia. It has a portfolio of three brands: YOTEL (city centre hotels), YOTELPAD (extended stay option) and YOTELAIR (airport hotels).

The Company has 23 operating hotels across 16 buzzing cities and airports around the world including New York, Boston, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Miami, Tokyo, Singapore, Edinburgh, London, Amsterdam, Porto, Geneva, Glasgow, Manchester, Paris, and Istanbul. In addition, it has 11 hotels in the pipeline due to open over the next 24 months in Lisbon, London, Belfast, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, New York, NEOM (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) and Perth.

YOTEL’s major shareholders include the Talal Jassim Al-Bahar Group, United Investment Portugal, and Kuwait Real Estate Company (AQARAT). The Al-Bahar Group has been invested in YOTEL since inception in 2005 and the Company’s major shareholder since 2013.

YOTEL was originally created by YO! founder Simon Woodroffe OBE who took inspiration from the experience of first-class travel and translated that ethos, language and design into small but beautifully designed rooms.

www.yotel.com

 

Luxury Group and Sotheby’s Expand Experiential Luxury in Asia Pacific with Curated Travel Lots at Hong Kong Luxury Sales Week

The pioneering global partnership brings once-in-a-lifetime, highly curated journeys in China and Japan to the auction floor

HONG KONG, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Luxury Group by Marriott International today announced the next chapter of its global partnership with Sotheby’s, unveiling two destination-led experiential travel lots to be auctioned during Sotheby’s Luxury Sales Week in Hong Kong. Building on momentum from late 2024, the collaboration introduces new, curator-designed itineraries that blend rare cultural access with signature hospitality, inviting collectors to bid on experiences that redefine what it means to acquire luxury.

Exploration of China’s Tibetan Landscapes and Japan’s Lake Chuzenji with The Ritz-Carlton and A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Exploration of China’s Tibetan Landscapes and Japan’s Lake Chuzenji with The Ritz-Carlton and A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

“The iconic partnership between Luxury Group and Sotheby’s exemplifies the immersive and nuanced approach to luxury that we are bringing to Asia Pacific,” said George Hammer, Global Head of Luxury Marketing, Marriott International. “From guided hikes through Tibetan landscapes in Jiuzhaigou to bespoke dining experiences in Tokyo and Nikko, we continue to blur the boundaries between luxury travel and extraordinary collectibles, enabling us to engage our guests in ways that transcend the conventions of traditional luxury.”

China’s Best-Kept Secret: A Sojourn in Jiuzhaigou Curated by a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The first of the lots transports guests to Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage region on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The journey begins in Chengdu with a night in a Fantastic Suite at W Chengdu before guests are chauffeured in a private Bentley limousine on a scenic five-and-a-half-hour drive to Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Greater China. Here, guests will spend three nights in the Rissai Villa (Presidential Villa), an extraordinary sanctuary that features an infinity pool mirroring the surrounding landscape.

During the stay, guests will be immersed in the cultural and natural beauty of the valley. Gastronomic highlights span the resort’s four restaurants, complemented by the signature Ritz-Carlton Reserve “Dining Beyond” experience, an alfresco lunch deep within Jiuzhaigou National Park, accompanied by a special wine tasting curated by Sotheby’s experts. On this vinous journey appropriate to the surroundings, Sotheby’s Wine will present guests with a reimagined “Judgement of Paris tasting”, offering some of the most exciting, artisan wines being produced in China alongside the greatest vineyards of the “Old World”.

China, particularly the extremely high vineyards of Yunnan province, is becoming an emerging force as a fine wine producing region, led by the likes of Domaine Muxin, Miao Lu, and Ao Yun, amongst others,” said George Lacey, Head of Wine, Sotheby’s Asia. “You will have the opportunity to compare how these extraordinary, terroir-driven wines, produced from some of the highest altitude vineyards in the world, stack up against the greatest French names from Burgundy and Bordeaux.”

Beyond dining, guests will be invited to explore the region’s otherworldly alpine lakes and sacred peaks on guided hikes while hands-on workshops in Tibetan incense-making and calligraphy provide an intimate connection to the region’s heritage.

From Tokyo to Nikko: A Culinary and Spiritual Journey Curated by The Ritz-Carlton
The second lot takes collectors on a five-day, four-night journey through Japan, beginning in the capital at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo. Staying in a Luxury Suite with sweeping views of the city, Tokyo Bay, and Mount Fuji, guests will rise early to accompany master sushi chef Tadaki Nomura of Hinokizaka to Toyosu Market. The day’s market haul will be transformed that evening into a bespoke omakase dinner paired with a sommelier-curated flight of rare sakes, followed by personalized cocktails at The Bar crafted by Head Bartender Kentaro Wada.

From Tokyo, the experience continues aboard Spacia X, one of Japan’s most refined limited-express trains, with a private cabin journey through forested hills and along picturesque rivers to The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko. While guests sit back to enjoy the scenic views of nature in this two-hour train journey, Sotheby’s specialist will lead a specially curated Japanese whisky tasting which highlights some of the country’s hidden gems.

“Whether it be culture, food, or landscapes, Japan has long been a source of inspiration for many of the artistic references we see and connect with today,” said Freeman Ho, Spirits Specialist, Sotheby’s Asia.   “Taking inspiration from the culinary and spiritual journey through Tokyo and Nikko, the whisky tasting curation focuses on the narrative of the Kanto region, known for its complexity, refinement, and innovative approach to distillation and aging. The selection will showcase some of Japan’s hidden gems that are often overlooked. Whether you are new to whisky or a seasoned collector, this offers a unique experience for all.”

Upon arrival, guests will settle into a Lakeview Suite and enjoy a farm-to-table dinner showcasing the region’s seasonal produce. At dawn, the itinerary culminates in a private meditation session and guided exploration of Lake Chuzenji, led by a senior monk, offering a spiritual and serene conclusion to the journey.

Bidding is available online through Sotheby’s from now to September 16, 2025 (11:00 HKT). For full details on the itineraries and Sotheby’s Luxury Sales Week, visit Sotheby.com.

Where Fine Dining Meets Distinction: Exclusive Whisky Pairing Menu Debuts at Rùn 
In celebration of Luxury Sales Week, The St. Regis Hong Kong will present “The Chuan Whisky Limited Pairing Menu” at its Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, Rùn, from August 15 to September 30, 2025. Crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Hung Chi-Kwong, the eight-course tasting menu is inspired by Sichuan flavor profiles and developed in collaboration with the opening of The Chuan Malt Whisky Distillery in China, underscoring how luxury spirits can elevate a fine dining journey.

To explore The St. Regis Hong Kong’s limited time tasting menu, please visit this link or call +852 2138 6808.

About Luxury Group by Marriott International 
With an unrivaled portfolio of eight dynamic luxury brands, Marriott International is creating authentic, rare, and enriching experiences sought by today’s global luxurian. Spanning all corners of the world, Marriott International’s Luxury Group offers a boundless network of more than 540 landmark hotels and resorts in over 70 countries and territories through The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels. From the world’s most iconic destinations to the ultimate undiscovered gems, the international hospitality leader’s collection of luxury brands is focused on elevating travel with highly contextualized, nuanced brand experiences that signal the future of luxury by allowing guests to indulge their passions while sparking personal growth. For more information, please visit Luxury.Marriott.com.

About Sotheby’s
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, ecommerce, and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable, and collaborative.

SingPost Gears Up for 9.9 and Upcoming Peak eCommerce Season to Deliver Seamless Service

Company to hire up to 100 more delivery staff, adds more operational vehicles and extends sortation hours to ensure smooth deliveries

SINGAPORE, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore Post Limited (SingPost) is ramping up its logistical capacity ahead of the upcoming peak eCommerce season by expanding its truck fleet and hiring up to 100 additional delivery staff. Parcel volumes typically surge by as much as 60 per cent during major shopping events such as the traditional 9.9 sales period, necessitating a robust operational response.

A key element of SingPost’s operational readiness for the eCommerce peak season is its flexible, data-driven fleet management approach. To ensure flexibility and efficiency, SingPost will deploy eight supplementary 24-foot trucks from 8 September, adding to its usual fleet of six and boosting daily shuttle capacity by more than 130 per cent. These vehicles will run between designated collection points and SingPost’s key facilities at SingPost Centre at Paya Lebar, and the Regional eCommerce Logistics Hub in Tampines, operating from 10 a.m. to midnight.

The number of additional trucks will be adjusted in the days following 9.9, reflecting parcel volume trends. This dynamic deployment ensures that SingPost efficiently allocates resources to meet demand at its peak.

SingPost’s sortation centres will also extend their operating schedule to seven days a week, up from the usual six, supported by a network of over 800 full-time delivery staff. The hiring of up to 100 more delivery staff will further strengthen capacity and help the company ensure adequate resources are in place to uphold timely deliveries for customers.

In addition, SingPost will have in place part of its new S$30 million sortation system operational from November, just in time to cater for what is considered the “peak of peaks” on 11.11. This addition will double its small parcel restoration throughput to 200,000[1] parcels per day. This increases scalable capacity during this critical period.

“Peak seasons present unique challenges for logistics providers, as volume surges originate from major platforms, power sellers, and local retailers, including a significant proportion of international shipments. During events like 9.9, about half of all eCommerce shipments sent locally stem from overseas sellers. This demands agility and rigorous resource management to meet service expectations within tight timelines,” said Ms Neo Su Yin, Group Chief Operating Officer, SingPost.

This operational readiness comes as part of SingPost’s Singapore growth strategy to grow its eCommerce business, which includes a previously announced S$30 million investment in its Regional eCommerce Logistics Hub. This investment, to be completed in 2026, will provide new sorting equipment that will boost the hub’s small parcel processing capacity from 100,000 to 300,000 per day. This is a strategic move to address a key pain point, as about 70 per cent of eCommerce shipments are small parcels that can fit into a letterbox.

To support sellers, last week, SingPost launched more than 160 new service touchpoints through Cheers outlets for customers to drop off parcels and purchase shipping supplies nationwide, expanding its network of POPStop service touchpoints islandwide to 236. This option provides more options for sellers, including SMEs and home-based businesses, to conveniently drop off parcels for delivery, and also purchase SingPost’s pre-paid smartpacs for domestic delivery at a single fixed rate.

“At SingPost, our mission is to deliver for the nation—and that commitment is especially vital during eCommerce events that mark the start of our peak logistics season,” added Ms Neo Su Yin. “From 9.9 sales through to 10.10, 11.11, Black Friday, and Christmas, we are scaling up with dedicated people and investments to capture growth opportunities and reinforce SingPost’s leadership in Singapore’s eCommerce logistics market.”

About Singapore Post Limited (SingPost)

Singapore Post (SingPost) is a leading postal and eCommerce logistics provider in Asia Pacific. The portfolio of businesses spans from national and international postal services to warehousing and fulfilment, international freight forwarding and last mile delivery, serving customers in more than 220 global destinations. Headquartered in Singapore, SingPost has approximately 3,000 employees, with presence in 14 markets worldwide. Since its inception in 1858, the Group has evolved and innovated to bring about best-in-class integrated logistics solutions and services, making every delivery count for people and planet. www.singpost.com 

[1] This figure does not include SingPost’s sortation for larger parcels which remain unchanged at 100,000 per day. Once completed, SingPost’s S$30 million investment will triple the small parcel processing capacity of up to 300,000 per day, bringing total sortation capacity [large and small] to 400,000 per day. Read More

 

Asia’s philanthropy trajectory: five growth models driving domestic impact

New research reveals diverse approaches to cultivating domestic philanthropy


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 September 2025 – The Commission on Asian Philanthropy – a coalition of 13 of Asia’s leading philanthropic organisations – today announces early insights from its landmark research study on Asian giving.

The 4th Convening of the Commission on Asian Philanthropy in Hong Kong on Monday, 8 September 2025
The 4th Convening of the Commission on Asian Philanthropy in Hong Kong on Monday, 8 September 2025

The study highlights five distinct growth models that are transforming the scale, professionalism and effectiveness of philanthropy across Asia, namely corporate-led, community-led, faith-based, state-led and high-net-worth-individual-led. While the last model has a comparatively limited presence in Asia, the first four account for the majority of philanthropic capital and activity across the region and offer compelling pathways to unlock domestic impact through approaches tailored to local contexts.

Distinctively, philanthropic growth models in Asia capitalise on the region’s values, with society taking on greater collective responsibility. The Commission has found that this diverse and pluralistic approach to cultivating philanthropy extends beyond a focus on high-net-worth individuals and allows jurisdictions in Asia to derive benefits that surpass financial contributions alone.

Key features of the growth models include:

  • Corporate-led: companies deploy assets, expertise and infrastructure to advance inclusive development.
  • Community-led: citizens engage through volunteering, peer support and grassroots mobilisation.
  • Faith-based: values-driven giving sustains long-term action and deep community trust.
  • State-led: enables greater co-ordination and scale, leveraging the state’s reach and delivery infrastructure.

To illustrate how these models are reshaping philanthropy in practice, the Commission spotlighted examples from several jurisdictions, each reflecting the kind of expansive investment and strategic ambition that defines a growth model.

  • India’s mandatory CSR boosted corporate giving from US$1.20 billion in 2015 to US$4.17 billion in 2024, embedding inclusive growth into boardroom priorities in less than a decade.
  • China and Saudi Arabia have digitalised informal giving by the general public, with China channelling close to US$1.55 billion in 2021 and Saudi Arabia raising US$1.33 billion in 2024 through digital fundraising platforms.
  • Indonesia’s Zakat system (giving to vulnerable people as mandated by Islamic law) has professionalised faith-based giving, increasing contributions to US$2.55 billion in 2024, with institutional giving tripling since 2015 to US$0.73 billion (28.69% of total).

“Asia’s philanthropic landscape is full of potential, but real transformation depends on strengthening the underlying systems that support the different philanthropic growth models,” says Lester Huang, Chairman of the Institute of Philanthropy – which is a Co-Convenor of the Commission on Asian Philanthropy. “These models offer a path forward – not just to grow giving, but to professionalise philanthropic approaches, improve co-ordination and increase impact.”

These findings mark a major milestone in the Commission’s three-year effort to catalyse “in Asia, for Asia” philanthropy. Rather than prescribing a single model, the research celebrates regional diversity, showcasing how jurisdictions are cultivating systems aligned to their cultural, institutional and socio-economic contexts. The Commission has identified multiple jurisdictional examples of pathways across the corporate-led, community-led and faith-based models to spark dialogue, foster shared learning and encourage regional collaboration to inform the evolution of domestic philanthropic ecosystems.

“Asia is shaping a new paradigm for global philanthropy, one that is rooted in local relevance, innovation and strategic execution,” said Ichiro Kabasawa, Executive Director of The Nippon Foundation. He represents the Asia Philanthropy Congress, which is a co-convenor of the Commission on Asian Philanthropy. “By building on bold growth models, we’re not just increasing giving, we’re raising the standard for what philanthropy can achieve when it is deeply embedded in the communities it aims to serve.”

The Commission consists of the following organisations:

  • China Soong Ching Ling Foundation
  • Erth Zayed Philanthropies
  • The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust
  • Kasikornthai Foundation
  • King Khalid Foundation
  • Nippon Foundation
  • Piramal Foundation
  • Tanoto Foundation
  • Tata Consultancy Services
  • Temasek Foundation
  • Tencent Charity Foundation
  • Yayasan Dompet Dhuafa Republika
  • Yayasan Hasanah (a foundation of Khazanah Nasional Berhad (Malaysia))

Co-convenors:

  • Asia Philanthropy Congress
  • Institute of Philanthropy

Co-secretariats:

  • AVPN
  • Voyage

Hashtag: #CommissionOnAsianPhilanthropy #Philanthropy #CSR #CorporateGiving #AVPN

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

Asia Philanthropy Congress

The Asia Philanthropy Congress was launched in 2022 as a venue for inviting the leaders of organizations in the philanthropy sector, especially foundations engaged with addressing social issues in the Asia region, and promoting cooperation and coordination aimed at solving these issues. Philanthropic activities––meaning both charitable work and social contribution––have an advantage in that they allow the swift provision of assistance in areas where public assistance from government agencies, corporate activities, or social investment cannot offer sufficient solutions. The congress gathers the leaders of the Asian philanthropy sector, especially from foundations that play a leading role in such activities, aiming to identify solutions together.

Institute of Philanthropy

The Institute of Philanthropy was established in September 2023 through a seed grant of HK$6.8 billion (US$870 million) from The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its Charities Trust. Established as an independent “think-fund-do” tank for China, Asia and beyond, IoP is dedicated to promoting philanthropic thought leadership and enhancing sector capabilities at local, regional and global levels in collaboration with fellow funders. It seeks to provide an Asia-based platform bringing global stakeholders together to promote the betterment of societies everywhere.

DuRoBo Debuts Krono: A 6.13″ ePaper Focus Hub for Clarity and Calm

NEW YORK, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DuRoBo unveils Krono, its trailblazing first device, a 6.13″ ePaper focus hub designed to acquire knowledge, store thoughts, and ignite creativity. Krono blends the serene, ink-on-paper aesthetic of the Carta 1200 display, AI-powered intelligence, and the flexibility of an open Android System, all encased in a design that’s as elegant as it is intuitive.

DuRoBo Krono
DuRoBo Krono

Krono emerges as an attention zone right in the palm of your hand. Its sleek, smartphone-sized body with a 16:9 aspect ratio features clean lines, a fine matte finish, and metallic accents that exude minimalist sophistication. The signature Axis on the back pulses with breathing lights, while the ergonomic Smart Knob adds a retro-tech charm inviting interaction on a clean UI. Widgets and customizable lock screens add a playful, personal edge, making Krono as delightful as it is functional.

DuRoBo Krono
DuRoBo Krono

Beneath its stylish exterior, Krono’s Carta 1200 display delivers breathtaking 300 PPI clarity, rendering text as crisp as fine print. While advanced AG etching strikes a perfect balance between transparency and anti-glare, ensuring clarity in any light. The tunable frontlight minimizes eye strain, adapting seamlessly from bright days to cozy nights. Powered by an octa-core processor, 6GB RAM, and 128GB storage, Krono offers blazing performance, supported by a robust 3950mAh battery to keep up with your day from morning musings to late-night reading.

DuRoBo Krono
DuRoBo Krono

More than an e-reader, Krono is a companion for conscious living. Its native tools reimagine how users engage with ideas. The Spark feature serves as an idea vault, transforming fleeting thoughts into structured ideas: long-press the Smart Knob to record, then use Speech-to-Text and AI Summary to refine insights. Switch to text mode for drafting or polishing prose with precision. Meanwhile, Libby AI, accessible from the home screen or a double-press of the Smart Knob, delivers instant news, answers, or creative prompts on demand. Additionally, users can set the mood with Krono’s Music function, offering ambient tracks, white noise, or lo-fi beats for immersive focus or relaxation. With Google Play Store access, Krono integrates your favorite apps; meditation tools, cloud drives, or podcasts—making it a seamless extension of your digital life.

Krono is now pre-launched on Indiegogo, where early supporters can join the journey to redefine focus. Visit DuRoBo’s product page for full details and specifications.

About DuRoBo
DuRoBo is a Dutch tech company specializing in ePaper products, including eReaders, tablets, and monitors. With a robust supply chain, exceptional hardware and software development capabilities, and original design expertise, DuRoBo operates across consumer products, industry solutions, and customized collaborations. More information can be found at https://www.durobo.com/