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Cost of ‘bad hires’ impacting US industrial sector productivity and profitability, says new Talogy research

  • One in five (21%) organizations have experienced an increase in safety incidents as a result of a poor hire
  • 73% say they feel under pressure to hire quickly, resulting in rushed recruitment decisions
  • Hirers increasingly demanding transferable skills such as attention to detail, problem-solving and communication, as well as technical skills
  • Talogy launches I-Grade suite of solutions to help industrial organizations screen and select good candidates based on job-specific and transferable skills

GLENDALE, Calif., Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — New research has found that decreased productivity, poor work quality and an increase in safety incidents are some of the costly consequences of hiring the wrong people for entry-level roles in the industrial sector.

The study – ‘Quality hires, quality output: Smart talent strategies for industrial hiring’ – from talent management solution provider, Talogy, investigated the challenges of hiring employees with the right mix of both technical and transferable skills to fulfil entry-level roles.

It surveyed 855 industrial hiring professionals in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, logistics, distribution, transportation, energy, warehousing, utilities, automotive and engineering.

With a skills shortage impacting many of these industries, the report found that a significant proportion of hirers – 73% – felt under pressure to hire quickly, but were seeing the consequences of rushed recruitment decisions.

More than half (51%) of respondents reported increased costs due to rehiring or training, particularly where transferable skills were lacking, while nearly two thirds (63%) saw decreased productivity and 56% reported poor work quality.

Most concerningly, one in five (21%) said their organization had experienced an increase in safety incidents as a result of a poor hire.

As a result, 85% of survey respondents believe that hiring for quality and skill readiness is becoming increasingly critical, particularly with advancements in technology impacting multiple industrial sectors.

Trevor McGlochlin, Managing R&D Consultant from Talogy, commented:

“In the industrial labor market, competition for entry-level talent remains high, and finding the right people to fulfil frontline roles is increasingly challenging. It is therefore not surprising that many employers rush to make quick hiring decisions, without potentially going through the right process.”

“However, this research reveals that prioritizing speed of hire over quality can be hugely detrimental. These are often sectors where employee performance directly impacts safety, productivity, and efficiency, and the fact that many of our respondents could directly link safety incidents to a poor hire is very worrying.”

“This is why quality is so important. A strong hire brings the right technical and transferable skills, as well as mindset, which reduces errors, minimizes downtime, and supports continuous improvement. This research shows the bottom-line impact of poor hires, which can significantly hurt output and profitability.”

The top four missing skills

Of the skills most commonly lacking in new hires, the research revealed that the top four were:

  • attention to detail
  • problem-solving
  • communication
  • advanced technical skills.

This showcases that transferable skills, as well as job-specific skills, are becoming an increasingly important factor in recruitment success.

Trevor McGlochlin continues:

“Industrial jobs are often shift-based, physically demanding, and require consistency, teamwork, and safety-mindedness. So, while a candidate may meet the basic technical requirements, if they don’t have qualities such as reliability, resilience, and attention to detail, candidates will be ABLE to do the job but are less likely to actually DO the job.”

“With technology changing so rapidly, recruiting people who have both technical and transferable skills is clearly a priority. These are skills that not only serve them well in their specific role but demonstrate future capabilities and agility.”

To support employers in the industrial sector to make informed hiring decisions, Talogy’s I-Grade (Industrial-Grade) suite of solutions are proven to help the sector hire more efficiently and effectively.

It includes screening and selection solutions that assess job-specific and transferable skills,providing data backed insights to ensure organizations are getting the right person for the role and their company. Using highly interactive simulations that keep candidates engaged from start to finish – from production simulations and hands-on assessments, to SJTs, and interactive safety modules – Talogy I-Grade is designed specifically to reduce drop-out rates and increase quality of hire.

For more information visit talogy.com/TalogyIGrade

IMAGES:

Industrial hiring
Industrial work

Australia’s Best Workplaces Revealed

Employees Take the Wheel in Australia’s New World of World

FULL REPORT AND AUSTRALIA’S BEST WORKPLACES OF 2025 LIST HERE

SYDNEY, Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The workplace power dynamic in Australia has fundamentally shifted and it’s not executives leading the change. It’s employees. 

A landmark report from Great Place To Work®, surveying over 158,000 Australian workers, reveals a seismic transformation: workers are no longer waiting for change, they’re driving it. From Gen Z to frontline staff and underrepresented groups, today’s employees are demanding more than perks. They expect flexibility, fairness, a real voice, and above all, trust. 

“The future of work isn’t coming. It’s already here; and it’s employee-led,” said Rebecca Moulynox, General Manager of Great Place To Work® Australia and New Zealand. “Companies that fail to adapt to this shift will find themselves irrelevant to the talent they need most.” 

The 2025 list of Australia’s Best Workplaces™, released today, celebrates 100 organisations across different categories from micro to large that are leading the way in workplace culture and employee engagement. 

  • Flexibility is retention fuel: 93% of employees who feel supported to take time off want to stay long-term. Where flexibility is lacking, that figure plummets to 63%.
  • Voice matters: At leading organisations, 92% of frontline workers feel heard by decision-makers. At typical companies? Just 50%.
  • Trust is everything: Even in high-performing workplaces, only 38% of employees want to stay if trust erodes, regardless of benefits or culture initiatives.
  • Purpose is expected: Gen Z workers don’t just want meaning; they demand growth, inclusion, flexibility, and leaders they believe in.
  • Fun at work is 200% more powerful than any benefit. Employees who report fun are nearly three times more likely to thrive.

This year’s large category winners:  

  • HiltonAustralia’s #1 Best Workplace for 2025 (also World’s #1 Best Workplace in 2023).
  • Cisco – embedding trust into AI adoption with its own secure assistant and Responsible AI framework.
  • REA Group – bridging five generations with leadership programs that connect Gen Z grads to Baby Boomer mentors.

Across other categories, winners include:  

  • Swisse Wellness (Medium) – championing wellbeing inside and out, with a culture built on health, trust and employee empowerment.
  • The Man Cave (Small) – reshaping purpose-led culture through youth wellbeing and mentoring.

Follow online:

Website: greatplacetowork.com.au
Instagram: @gptw_au
LinkedIn: Great Place To Work on LinkedIn

INEOS Styrolution expands its supply of recycled polystyrene for dairy packaging across German supermarkets

  • New sour cream cups with 30% recycled content to be available in many ALDI SÜD stores
  • This collaboration reflects growing industry shift toward circular polystyrene food-contact packaging

FRANKFURT, Germany, Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — INEOS Styrolution has launched its latest circular packaging breakthrough: sour cream cups made with 30% recycled polystyrene, available in ALDI SÜD stores across Germany since the beginning of this year. Developed in collaboration with development partner ALDI SÜD and Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller, this marks a major step forward in scaling sustainable food packaging for mass-market use. In July 2025, these sour cream cups were recognised with the German Packaging Award in the “Sustainability: recycled content” category.

Sour cream cups from ALDI SÜD
Sour cream cups from ALDI SÜD

This is the second commercial roll-out of food-grade recycled polystyrene by INEOS Styrolution with a leading German retailer, reinforcing its position as a frontrunner in the race to decarbonise packaging.

“INEOS Styrolution is turning the promise of recycled polystyrene into a practical reality,” said Rob Buntinx, President EMEA. “We’re proving that circular solutions can meet both food safety standards and performance demands. We’re calling on the entire value chain to join us in making circularity the new normal.”

This move comes as the packaging industry prepares for stricter EU rules under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). INEOS Styrolution has already submitted a formal EFSA application for its novel recycling technology underscoring its commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation.

With multiple food-grade applications already on the market and more to follow, INEOS Styrolution is helping drive a fundamental shift: from single-use plastics to scalable, circular solutions fit for the future.

About INEOS Styrolution 

INEOS Styrolution is the number one producer of high-performance styrenics, offering a broad portfolio that comprises styrene monomer, polystyrene, ABS, and advanced styrenics. The company delivers customised solutions for customers across automotive, healthcare, electronics, household, construction, packaging, toys, sports and leisure sectors. With more than 90 years of innovation in material science and 16 production sites worldwide, INEOS Styrolution combines global reach with local expertise to meet the evolving needs of its customers. This includes bringing safe, sustainable, and high-performing products to market and supporting their efforts toward meeting their sustainability targets.

INEOS Styrolution is fully owned by INEOS Group.

For further information, please visit: www.ineos-styrolution.com

vivo Marks 30 Years of Innovation with Launch of Groundbreaking Mixed Reality Headset

DONGGUAN, China, Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — vivo, a global leader in mobile technology, celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of technological leadership, user-centric innovation, and global impact. Since its establishment in 1994, vivo has been at the forefront of mobile innovation, delivering cutting-edge products that enhance connectivity and digital experiences worldwide.

In 2019, the company’s commitment to breakthrough technology led to the creation of its sub-brand, iQOO, extending vivo’s legacy of innovation into high-performance gaming and premium smartphone segments. iQOO continues to embody vivo’s core values of innovation and user-focused design.


As part of its anniversary celebration, vivo has unveiled the groundbreaking vivo Vision Discovery Edition, showcasing the company’s advanced capabilities in spatial computing and immersive technology. Representing vivo’s strongest technological achievement in extended reality, The headset is the first MR product developed by a smartphone manufacturer in China, positioning vivo as the first Chinese company to operate within both the smartphone and MR product sectors. Designed for daily use, this cutting-edge device features a lightweight, ergonomically optimized build. Weighing just 398g with a height of 83 mm and a thickness of 40 mm, it is 26% smaller than the industry average, improving overall comfort. Informed by extensive human factors research, the design offers four sizes of light seal, and eight foam padding options to ensure an optimal fit and long-lasting comfort, even during extended wear or active movement.


“This anniversary marks not just a milestone but a new beginning,” said an iQOO spokesperson. “The vivo Vision Discovery Edition showcases the technological foundation that empowers iQOO to push the boundaries in mobile performance and innovation. We are excited to incorporate these advancements into future iQOO products.”

Looking ahead, iQOO will continue to leverage vivo’s breakthroughs in AI, imaging, and immersive computing to create devices that deliver extreme performance, sleek design, and unparalleled user experiences for tech enthusiasts worldwide.

About iQOO

iQOO is a global technology brand dedicated to developing high-performance smartphones and smart devices. Born from the vivo ecosystem in 2019, iQOO leverages cutting-edge R&D to deliver speed, power, and innovation to users worldwide. For more information, visit iQOO’s official website.

Singapore’s Prestigious CVA Programme Expands to Malaysia and India Through LSBF-IVAS Partnership

SINGAPORE, Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) Singapore Campus has entered into a landmark collaboration with the Institute of Valuers and Appraisers, Singapore (IVAS) to launch the highly regarded Chartered Valuer and Appraiser (CVA) Programme at its campuses in Malaysia and India.

MOU Signing Ceremony
MOU Signing Ceremony

The partnership was formalised at a signing ceremony during the IVAS–IVSC Business Valuation Conference 2025, witnessed by distinguished leaders including Ms. Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Finance and Second Minister for National Development (Guest-of-Honour), Mrs. Chia-Tern Huey Min, Chief Executive, Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) as well as Mr. Lie Kok Keong, Chairperson, IVAS Council.

This marks the first time LSBF will deliver the CVA Programme outside of Singapore. By extending to Malaysia and India, both partners aim to provide finance professionals, corporate leaders, and valuation specialists in two of Asia’s fastest-growing economies with access to a globally recognised professional qualification.

The CVA Programme sets the benchmark for professional standards in valuation, strengthening consistency and credibility across capital markets, corporate transactions, and investment landscapes.

Mr. Rathakrishnan Govind, CEO, LSBF Global, said: “Valuation is increasingly vital in today’s dynamic business environment. By bringing the CVA Programme to Malaysia and India, we are giving professionals direct access to world-class training that enhances their expertise and credibility on the global stage. This partnership underscores LSBF’s mission to expand opportunities for learners across Asia and to build talent that fuels economic growth.”

Mr. Lie Kok Keong also shared, “We are delighted to see IVAS expanding the CVA Programme through this partnership with LSBF. This collaboration will strengthen business valuation standards and practices across the region and provide professionals in Malaysia and India with access to a qualification that deepens their business valuation expertise.”

About LSBF Singapore

The London School of Business & Finance (LSBF), founded in 2003 and a member of the Global University System (GUS), serves over 25,000 students across more than 40 countries. With campuses in key cities including the UK, Singapore, and Malaysia, LSBF has expanded its international footprint, particularly in Asia. LSBF Singapore campus offers over 100 programmes in business, finance, law, hospitality, and technology, and collaborate with reputable universities to provide internationally recognised qualifications. LSBF holds EduTrust certification, partners with organizations like Grab, Deloitte and ISCA, and is an ACCA Approved Learning Partner. In recognition of its future-focused approach to education, LSBF was honoured with the Singapore Business Review’s International Business Award in Education for two consecutive years – 2024 and 2025. These accolades reaffirm LSBF’s commitment to delivering quality, industry-aligned education that empowers aspiring professionals globally.

Innovent Announces 2025 Interim Results and Business Updates

  • Robust revenue growth and substantial profit improvement
  • Continued exceptional executions under a clear roadmap of dual-driven growth and global innovation

SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Innovent Biologics, Inc. (Innovent) (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high-quality medicines for the treatment of cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announces its 2025 interim results and major business updates.

Dr. Michael Yu, Founder, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Innovent, stated: “We delivered an outstanding performance in the first half of 2025, driven by the comprehensive acceleration of our dual-engine growth model and global innovation strategy. Supported by our oncology leadership and successful commercial launch across our general biomedicine portfolio, we have expanded our product portfolio to 16 drugs and achieved a notable improvement in revenue and profitability, maintaining strong business momentum.

On the innovation front, several core pipeline candidates with global potential achieved key proof-of-concept data, and are entering global registration trials. This demonstrates the depth of Innovent’s innovation capabilities and lays a solid foundation for globalization.

We firmly believe that a clear strategic vision combined with excellent execution will continue to drive Innovent’s growth. Looking ahead, we will further consolidate our leadership in oncology, continue exploring and implementing diversified commercialization strategies across our general biomedicine product portfolio, and accelerate the global development of our next-generation innovative pipeline. Anchored by our strategic goals of achieving RMB 20 billion in product revenue by 2027 and advancing five pipeline programs into global Phase 3 trials by 2030, Innovent will continue striving to become a world-class biopharmaceutical company.”

Dual-driven revenue growth with execution excellence

Robust revenue growth and substantial profit improvement[1]

  • Total revenue: RMB 5.95 billion, up 50.6% year-on-year
  • Product revenue: RMB 5.23 billion, up 37.3% year-on-year
  • Net profit: RMB 1.21 billion; EBITDA: RMB 1.41 billion
  • Gross margin: 86.8%, up 2.7 percentage points year-on-year
  • Selling and administrative expenses ratio: 44.2%, down 7.9 percentage points year-on-year
  • R&D investment: RMB 903 million
  • Cash on hand: approximately USD 2 billion[2]


Dual-engine growth supported by comprehensive and diversified product portfolio

  • Expansion of oncology product portfolio with three new launches
    • Dovbleron® (taletrectinib) : Potentially best-in-class ROS1 inhibitor
    • Limertinib: Third-generation EGFR TKI
    • Jaypirca®(pirtobrutinib) : First non-covalent BTK inhibitor
  • Strengthening general biomedicine portfolio with innovative pipeline
    • SINTBILO® (tafolecimab injection): First PCSK-9 inhibitor successfully included in the NRDL, received approval by Macau ISAF in May 2025
    • SYCUME® (teprotumumab N01 injection): First approved anti-IGF-1R monoclonal antibody, ending a 70-year drought of no new treatment options for thyroid eye disease (TED) in China
    • Mazdutide (GCG/GLP-1) : Globally first and only GCG/GLP-1 dual receptor agonist for weight management, with another NDA for glycemic control of T2D adults under NMPA review

Innovative commercial strategy with multi-channel coverage


  • Actively responding to the national “Year of Weight Management”: Participating in the development of the weight-loss industry ecosystem, promoting the concept of scientific weight management, and advancing obesity prevention and chronic disease management
  • Deepening hospital presence and academic influence: Strengthening academic coverage in public hospitals, with the GLORY-1 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, significantly enhancing academic influence
  • Innovative multi-channel coverage: Leveraging a comprehensive sales team of over 1,000 people, integrating public hospitals, retail pharmacies, online medical platforms, and private clinic networks to facilitate convenient access to medications for chronic disease patients
  • Emphasizing disease education and patient management: Integrating digital tools and professional activities to establish a patient-centric disease management system, enhancing chronic disease education and patient adherence

Enhancing brand strength through the establishment of a lifecycle management system

  • TYVYT®: NDAs for renal and colorectal cancer are under regulatory review; Phase 3 study of neoadjuvant treatment in lung cancer is underway
  • SYCUME® (teprotumumab N01 injection): new Phase 3 studies in plan for inactive TED and head-to-head comparison with steroid therapy in TED
  • Mazdutide (GCG/GLP-1): second NDA for glycemic control of T2D adults is under regulatory review, alongside with two new Phase 3 studies for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD, head-to-head with semaglutide 2.4mg). Additional PoC studies are ongoing for adolescent obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), etc.
  • Picankibart (IL-23p19): a potent and long-acting IL-23p19 for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis pending NMPA approval; Phase 3 studies are ongoing for treatment withdrawal maintenance and psoriasis with prior inadequate response to IL-17 biologics

Emerging value from globalization strategy, prioritizing novel pipeline’s global R&D

Flagship pipeline showcased at top-tier conferences, entering global registration studies

  • IBI363 (PD-1/IL-2α-bias): Unleashing potential as a next-generation IO therapy with global first-in-class design
    • Three oral presentations at ASCO highlighted breakthrough PoC data across difficult-to-treat tumors such as IO resistant cold tumors and low PD-L1 expression, demonstrating the unique advantages of dual immune activation and long-term survival benefits
    • Three pivotal studies are underway or in plan: the first global Phase 3 study is initiating in China and the U.S. to address unmet needs in IO-resistant squamous NSCLC; the first pivotal Phase 2 study in melanoma was initiated, challenging Keytruda in first-line setting; and the first Phase 3 study in late-line colorectal cancer is about to initiate
    • Continuous exploration in first-line settings and more cancer types, including first-line lung cancer, first-line colorectal cancer, neoadjuvant lung cancer, EGFR-mutated lung cancer, platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, and more
  • BI343 (CLDN18.2 ADC): two registration trials in GC and PDAC; globally the first ADC to enter a Phase 3 trial in PDAC
    • First MRCT Phase 3 study of GC has been initiated in China and Japan
    • First Phase 3 study of PDAC has been initiated
    • Global MRCT of PDAC is in plan
    • NMPA CDE Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) and FDA Fast-track Designation (FTD) granted
  • Over 10 next-generation programs advancing into global development


  • Oncology: IBI3009 (DLL3 ADC), IBI3001 (EGFR/B7H3 ADC), IBI3003 (GPRC5D/BCMA/CD3), IBI3005 (EGFR/HER3 ADC), IBI3014 (PD-L1/TROP2 ADC), IBI3020 (CEACAM5 dual-payload ADC), etc
  • CVM: IBI3016 (AGT siRNA), IBI3032 (oral GLP-1), etc
  • Autoimmune: IBI356 (OX40L), IBI3002 (TSLP/ IL-4Rα), etc

Hybrid models to accelerate innovation

  • IBI3009 (DLL3 ADC): global rights granted to Roche, to benefit SCLC patients worldwide

Enhance global presence with broader market access

  • Six products (TYVYT®, BYVASDA®, Pemazyre®, Dupert®, SINTBILO®, SYCUME®) have been launched in markets including Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia
  • More launches planned Brazil, Mexico, Columbia, India, etc

Research innovation showcased at medical conferences

  • Oncology pipeline: AACR, ASCO, Nature Medicine
  • General biomedicine pipeline: ADA, NEJM

Facilities and manufacturing capacity adhering to high-quality standards

  • 7,500 employees globally
  • Global R&D centers located in the San Francisco Bay Area, Shanghai, and Suzhou
  • To date, Innovent has a total of 140,000L of operational capacity, accounting for 20% of China’s total biopharmaceutical production capacity
  • First manufacturing site: 60,000L antibody and ADC production capacity in operation, ensuring high-quality supply
  • Second manufacturing site: first phase of 80,000L antibody production capacity in operation, for global supply and CDMO operations

Committed to responsible business practices and enhancing ESG management practices

  • Over 3,000 new oncology patients begin treatment with Innovent-developed therapeutics each day, and to date, more than 5 million patients have benefited from Innovent’s innovative drugs
  • Innovent has been graded ‘AAA’ rating in MSCI ESG rankings, positioning us at the forefront of the biotechnology industry
  • We have supported over 200,000 patients through our dedicated patient assistance programs, with drug donations totaling RMB 3.6 billion
  • Our commitment to medical philanthropy has been recognized through prestigious awards, including the “Medical Philanthropy Promoter” title and designation as a “China Philanthropic Enterprise”
  • Provided over 2,200 job opportunities for recent graduates
  • To date, Innovent Biologics has contributed more than RMB 6 billion in taxes and fees

About Innovent Biologics

Innovent is a leading biopharmaceutical company founded in 2011 with the mission to empower patients worldwide with affordable, high-quality biopharmaceuticals. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medicines that target some of the most intractable diseases. Its pioneering therapies treat cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune and eye diseases. Innovent has launched 16 products in the market. It has 2 new drug applications under regulatory review, 4 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials and 15 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare companies, including Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Incyte, LG Chem and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Guided by the motto, “Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action,” Innovent maintains the highest standard of industry practices and works collaboratively to advance the biopharmaceutical industry so that first-rate pharmaceutical drugs can become widely accessible. For more information, visit www.innoventbio.com, or follow Innovent on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Statement:

(1)Innovent does not recommend the use of any unapproved drug (s)/indication (s).

(2)Ramucirumab (Cyramza),Selpercatinib (Retsevmo) and Jaypirca (pirtobrutinib) were developed by Eli Lilly and Company.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. Innovent does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of Innovent with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond Innovent’s control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, Innovent’s competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

Innovent, the Directors and the employees of Innovent assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialize or turn out to be incorrect.

[1] Note:The financial numbers mentioned above, unless stated, were based on non-IFRS measure. Detailed disclosure can be found at the Company’s 2025 interim results announcement.

[2] Note:cutoff July 31st, 2025.

 

 

Alliance Française and Tramplus Join Forces to Celebrate French Culture on Hong Kong’s Iconic Trams


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 August 2025 – In celebration of French creativity and cultural exchange, the Alliance Française de Hong Kong (AFHK) and Tramplus, a sister company of Hong Kong Tramways, have partnered to launch the Tram Design Competition, transforming one of the city’s most iconic modes of transport into a moving canvas of French-inspired imagination.

Alliance Française and Tramplus Join Forces to Celebrate French Culture on Hong Kong’s Iconic Trams

This initiative marks a new chapter in a long-standing partnership between AFHK and Hong Kong Tramways, who have collaborated for years to bring French cultural events to the streets of Hong Kong—most notably the Hong Kong French Film Festival, which has become a beloved annual tradition of many cinephiles. The Tram Design Competition builds on this legacy, inviting secondary school students to engage with French aesthetics through art and design.

The collaboration between AFHK and Tramplus reflects a shared commitment to enriching the learning experience of Hong Kong’s youth through creativity, language, and cultural immersion. By combining AFHK’s 70+ years of expertise in French education and cultural promotion with Tramplus’s innovative approach to community placemaking, the project offers students a unique opportunity to explore French culture in a dynamic and creative format.

The competition, themed “Découverte de la Beauté Française” (Discovering French Beauty), invited secondary school students to design tram exteriors inspired by French art, fashion, innovation, and heritage. The winning design, created by Li Pui Hiu from St. Mark’s School, will be unveiled on September 8 at 10:00 am at the Whitty Street Tram Depot, in the presence of Ms. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau. The tram will circulate through the city for four weeks, showcasing the student’s creative artwork to the public.

Tramcar Launch Ceremony:
Date: September 8, 2025,
Time: 10:00 am
Venue: Whitty Street Tram Depot
Guest of honour: Mrs. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau

Forty finalists were selected for their originality and insight, and were invited to participate in AFHK’s French Taster Program on August 14. This initiative complements AFHK’s broader mission to promote French language learning in Hong Kong, especially as the DELF Junior exam becomes the stipulated assessment for French under HKDSE Category C subjects starting in 2025. As the only DELF DALF accredited examination center in Hong Kong, AFHK plays a pivotal role in preparing students for internationally recognized qualifications.

This September, AFHK is introducing an exclusive Yearly Beginner Adults Membership offer designed for beginner learners. Students can now access all four sub-levels of the A1 French curriculum for only HK$7,000—less than half the regular price of HK$14,000. The initiative underscores AFHK’s dedication to making French language education more affordable and inclusive for the broader community. Registration is now open, register to enjoy up to 50% off with the Yearly Beginner Adults Membership!

Website:
https://www.afhongkong.org/en/learn-french/adults-french-classes/regular-group-classes/adults-beginners-a1-enroll/

Hashtag: #AllianceFrançaise

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

About Alliance Française de Hong Kong

Established in 1953, Alliance Française de Hong Kong (AFHK) is the Official and largest language and cultural institution for French in Hong Kong and in Asia with over 6,000 students annually. With our team of 60 qualified native French-speaking teachers, we offer a large range of courses, including workshops, specialized courses, private tuition, workshops, immersion in France etc. The AFHK is the only accredited and official examination centre to conduct all the diplomas issued by the French Ministry of Education such as DELF and DALF, TCF and TCF Canada. (operated by France Education International).

Since its establishment, Alliance Française has been dedicated to promotion of French culture by curating and organizing different cultural events with long-term supportive partners including Consulate of France in Hong Kong and Macao, Leisure and Cultural Services Department, UniFrance, Insitut Francais, local theatres, film distributors, sponsors and many others. It organizes major cultural events each year, such as the French Film Festival in November and takes part in numerous programs of Le French May (an initiative co-created by AFHK in 1993), Make Music Hong Kong (from 2018) and the French-Speaking Festival (Francophonie).

DHL Global Forwarding Adds to Its Asia Pacific’s Life Science and Healthcare Capabilities with Dual-Certified Cold Chain Facility in Malaysia

  • First forwarder with dual-certified facility within Kuala Lumpur International Airport Free Commercial Zone for 15–25°C and 2–8°C storage, with Good Distribution Practice qualifications
  • Sets new benchmark in pharmaceutical logistics with reefer truck transfers, secure cages, and eco-friendly infrastructure.
  • Strengthens DHL’s network of 37 Air GxP and 12 IATA CEIV Pharma-certified stations across Asia-Pacific, reinforcing its leadership in providing compliant and sustainable healthcare logistics.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 August 2025 – To meet the growing demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical logistics, DHL Global Forwarding continues to enhance its cold chain capabilities in Malaysia, being the first forwarder to offer a cold chain facility certified for both 15–25°C and 2–8°C storage within the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Free Commercial Zone. Spanning over 38,000 square feet, the state-of-the-art facility is accorded both the DHL Air GxP certification and the IATA CEIV Pharma certification, delivering unmatched flexibility and regulatory compliance for Life Science and Healthcare customers.

DHL Global Forwarding Malaysia Facility
DHL Global Forwarding Malaysia Facility

Based on the World Health Organization’s Good Distribution and Storage Practices, the DHL Air GxP certification is a baseline requirement across all DHL pharma stations to ensure upholding of stringent quality and compliance standards. Complementing this is the IATA CEIV Pharma certification, a globally recognized standard that validates DHL’s capabilities in handling high-value, time- and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments.

“Malaysia is strategically located to serve as a regional hub for global medical technology companies, and the fast-growing market is expected to increase at a CAGR of 8.5 per cent from 2023 to 2028, reaching a market volume of US$4.5 billion by 2028,” said Praveen Gregory, Managing Director, Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei, DHL Global Forwarding. “Our cold chain infrastructure in KLIA has consistently delivered high standards in pharmaceutical logistics since its launch in 2023, and as demand across Asia Pacific accelerates, we are ready to lead with best-in-class facilities and expertise to support our customers.”

Comprehensive solutions to cater to diverse needs and maintain cold chain integrity

The facility comprises:

  • Dedicated cold rooms: 1,040 square feet for 15–25°C storage and 504 square feet for 2–8°C storage, supporting up to 105 EU pallets
  • Dual secure cages: Over 2,400 square feet of high-security storage with 24/7 CCTV surveillance and restricted access.
  • Advanced Environment Monitoring System (EMS): 100% automated real-time storage temperature monitoring via a dual system (Testo Saveris and UniBot), with data stored for one year.
  • Eco-friendly infrastructure: R448A refrigerant, food-grade epoxy flooring, airtight doors, and energy-efficient compressors.
  • Operational excellence: 24/7 operations with dedicated customs brokerage and value-added services such as buyer consolidation, cross-docking, and LD3 container charging.
  • Fully temperature-mapped carve-out site: Designated area that has undergone a thorough temperature mapping process, specifically designed to store or handle temperature-sensitive products
  • Dehumidification system: Tailored for pharmaceutical application between the range of 55% to 70%Rh

DHL is also the only forwarder in KLIA offering reefer truck transfers from pick-up to terminal arrival and delivery. This service ensures cold chain integrity is maintained throughout the journey and minimizes third-party handling, which in turn reduces turnaround time. It also enhances cargo security and ensures compliance with Good Distribution Practice (GDP) standards.

To ensure all shipments are handled with utmost care and in compliance with the highest industry standards, all cold-chain shipments are handled by a dedicated team of Life Sciences Specialists who have completed the training and are certified. These staff undergo annual training to stay ahead of evolving industry requirements, armed with vital tools and knowledge needed to understand and meet both customer and regulatory expectations. In addition to implementing a specialized training program aligned with IATA regulatory standards across its key GxP facilities, DHL’s CIF Certified Life Sciences Specialist (CLSS) program equally provides a comprehensive curriculum of mandatory training sessions, functional courses, and material to build deep expertise in this highly specialized industry.

DHL’s commitment to green logistics is also evident in the KLIA facility’s design. The facility is built using CFC- and HCFC-free materials and is fitted with energy-saving compressors and low-noise, low-emission generators. The company is also exploring mobile freezer units capable of operating at -20°C, as well as expanding its service portfolio to include frozen commodities such as vaccines, meat, and industrial chemicals.

Asia Pacific: Fast-Growing Strategic Hub for Healthcare Logistics

Asia Pacific is rapidly emerging as a global center for pharmaceutical innovation, manufacturing, and distribution. According to an industry trend report by Data Bridge Market Research, the region’s healthcare logistics market is forecasted to grow from USD 17.6 billion in 2022 to USD 29.5 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.1%. This growth is driven by aging populations, rising chronic disease prevalence, and increasing demand for biologics, vaccines, and clinical trials.

DHL is uniquely positioned to support this growth, with a robust and strategically distributed cold chain network across Asia Pacific. As part of its Strategy 2030: Accelerating Sustainable Growth, DHL Group has identified Life Sciences and Healthcare (LSH) as a key growth sector and introduced a new “DHL Health Logistics sector brand to drive cross-divisional growth. This reflects a broader global trend in which logistics is increasingly recognized as a critical enabler of healthcare access and patient outcomes. Earlier this year, DHL Group also announced a €500 million investment in Life Sciences infrastructure across Asia Pacific, including 300,000 square meters of fully compliant storage in 15 countries – a move that reinforces its regional logistics leadership.

Currently, DHL operates 37 Air GxP-certified stations and 12 IATA CEIV Pharma-certified stations in the region, including key hubs in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Sydney, and Shanghai. These facilities are meticulously set up to meet the highest standards of pharmaceutical logistics, ensuring temperature integrity, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. Each certified station is staffed by trained Life Sciences Specialists and supported by integrated supply chain capabilities, including temperature-controlled transportation, customs brokerage, real-time shipment monitoring, and post-shipment investigations.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, DHL remains steadfast in its mission to deliver resilient, compliant, and future-ready logistics solutions. With its expanding footprint, certified expertise, and commitment to innovation, it is well-positioned to be the logistics partner of choice for life sciences companies across Asia Pacific—ensuring that critical healthcare products reach patients safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
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DHL – The logistics company for the world​

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 400,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 84.2 billion euros in 2024. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.