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cooldown°earth welcomes North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) funding for matterr

– Public funds and public welfare capital accelerate circular technology –


DÜSSELDORF/BERLIN – Newsaktuell – 15 August 2025 – The non-profit cooldown°earth foundation congratulates its portfolio company matterr on receiving funding confirmation from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia as part of the EFRE/JTF program “Produktives.NRW.” Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Mona Neubaur presented the funding approval on August 6 in Düsseldorf.

Pictured (from left to right): Thomas Tochtermann (Chairman of the Board, matterr), Benjamin Rump (COO, matterr), Wolfgang K. Hoever (Founder/Board, cooldown°earth), Mona Neubaur (Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia), Melanie Hackler (CEO, matterr), Jan Rückold (Head of Finance, matterr) Credit: © MWIKE NRW / Bowinkelmann
Pictured (from left to right): Thomas Tochtermann (Chairman of the Board, matterr), Benjamin Rump (COO, matterr), Wolfgang K. Hoever (Founder/Board, cooldown°earth), Mona Neubaur (Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia), Melanie Hackler (CEO, matterr), Jan Rückold (Head of Finance, matterr)

Credit: © MWIKE NRW / Bowinkelmann

To help end the export of waste from industrialised nations—a practice that currently places a disproportionate burden on the world’s poorest countries—matterr has developed a globally patented solution capable of repeatedly transforming waste back into high-quality raw materials.

With this funding, matterr can accelerate the construction of its second plant, now on a small industrial scale, in North Rhine-Westphalia. The core technology is the depolymerization of PET under mild conditions. This allows mixed waste such as multi-layer packaging or mixed textile fabrics to be broken down into their primary components and fossil raw materials to be replaced on a large scale. By returning the monomer-based process to primary material quality, it enables molecular upcycling: Polyester textiles, which previously could only be recycled for low-quality applications, are now being used to create products of the highest quality – not only new textiles, but even packaging that is approved for food contact.

“This is a unique partnership,” says Wolfgang K. Hoever, founder of cooldown°earth. “A charitable foundation takes the lead, the state follows – and the result is infrastructure that turns hard-to-recycle waste into a circular GreenTech product. This is great news for climate protection and for our region as a business location.”

The funding commitment awarded to matterr is not only the first from this programme but also the maximum possible grant amount of €30 million. The planned NRW facility is scheduled to start operations in 2027 with an annual capacity of 10,000 tonnes.

cooldown°earth is not the recipient of the funding, but an early investor and enabler. Any potential returns from its stake will, in accordance with its statutes, be reinvested in non-profit climate and environmental protection projects.

Background

  • The State of NRW and the EU support strategic technologies under the Produktives.NRW (EFRE/JTF 2021–2027) programme to ensure they remain in NRW/Europe. The first grants went to, among others, matterr (“revolPET plant”) and Greenlyte. Minister Neubaur highlighted the triple benefit for climate, jobs and innovation. (Pressrelease NRW)
  • matterr’s own statement details the funding amount, schedule and process; the plant will replace fossil-based PET feedstock with primary-quality recycled material. (Pressrelease matterr)

Hashtag: #cooldown°earth

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

About cooldown°earth:

The cooldown°earth foundation is a private, non-profit foundation based in Krefeld, Germany. Founded in 2013 by Dr. Annekathrin Edelmann and Wolfgang K. Hoever, it works to promote social cohesion and climate protection.

Projects include the Digital Climate School, which helps schools integrate education for sustainable development into their curricula. The foundation fosters skills in using new technologies for sustainability and strengthens motivation for the responsible use of the planet’s natural resources.

VARON’s Lung Health Awareness Initiative Urges Proactive Steps for Allergy and Flu this Fall Season

NEW YORK, Aug. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With allergy and flu season approaching, VARON is calling on individuals to take preventive measures to protect their lungs. Through its “Every Breath Counts” initiative, the oxygen concentrator manufacturer is partnering with respiratory health experts to share practical lung care strategies and introduce tools — from at home oxygen concentrators to lightweight portable oxygen concentrators — to help people maintain optimal oxygen levels during seasonal flare-ups.

As part of its Every Breath Counts initiative, VARON recently held a live-streamed discussion with Dr. Maria Chen, MD, FCCP, a board-certified pulmonologist and respiratory health advocate. The session focused on proactive steps to safeguard lung health ahead of the fall allergy and flu season — a period when respiratory illnesses and breathing difficulties often spike.

Why Fall Brings Breathing Challenges

Respiratory specialists note that early fall brings a unique combination of allergens, temperature shifts, and viral activity. Ragweed pollen, mold spores, and cooler, drier air can cause airway inflammation, while flu viruses and other respiratory infections spread more easily. For those with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis, these triggers can significantly lower blood oxygen saturation and compromise overall wellness.

Proactive Lung Health Strategies

Dr. Chen emphasized that respiratory preparedness is a year-round commitment, but strategic action before the seasonal transition can significantly reduce the impact of allergens, pollutants, and viral infections.

Key Takeaways and Practical Strategies

1. Monitor Air Quality and Pollen Levels Daily

Understanding your local air quality index (AQI) and pollen count allows you to adjust outdoor activities on high-risk days. Dr. Chen recommended reliable air quality apps and stressed that individuals with asthma or COPD should plan exercise or errands during low-exposure hours.

2. Maintain Optimal Indoor Air Conditions

Dry indoor air can irritate the airways, increasing coughing and congestion. Many at-home oxygen concentrators — such as the VARON Serene 5 — feature a large-capacity humidification bottle and a triple-layer filtration system, ensuring oxygen delivery remains clean and comfortable during extended use. HEPA air purifiers, regular vacuuming, and dust control further reduce allergen exposure indoors.

3. Support Mobility and Physical Activity

Staying active supports lung function, but mobility can be a challenge for those requiring supplemental oxygen. The VARON VP-8G lightweight portable oxygen concentrator allows users to maintain oxygen therapy on the go, thanks to its compact design, eight adjustable pulse-flow settings, and long-lasting battery options.

4. Use a Portable Nebulizer for Quick Relief

For individuals who experience sudden airway inflammation, wheezing, or chest tightness, a portable nebulizer can deliver medication directly to the lungs for rapid relief. Compact and travel-friendly, it’s an essential companion for managing respiratory symptoms both at home and on the go.

5. Strengthen Respiratory Defenses Through Lifestyle Choices

Dr. Chen advised adopting a nutrient-rich diet high in antioxidants, staying well-hydrated, and practicing diaphragmatic breathing exercises. These habits enhance lung resilience and help the body better manage seasonal stressors.

6. Practice Preventive Healthcare

Annual flu vaccines, timely COVID-19 boosters, and early allergy management can significantly reduce the risk of complications. For individuals with chronic lung conditions, scheduling a pre-season check-up allows for medication adjustments before symptoms escalate.

7. Prepare for Emergency Situations

Dr. Chen underscored the importance of having a respiratory action plan, extra oxygen supplies, and backup power options for oxygen concentrators in case of outages.

Dr. Chen’s Closing Advice:

“Every breath you take is an opportunity to protect your health. By preparing now, you can minimize flare-ups, maintain your independence, and stay active — no matter what the season brings.”

Season-Ready Oxygen Solutions for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Choosing the right oxygen therapy equipment is crucial during high-risk seasons for respiratory illnesses. Whether you need continuous oxygen support indoors or a flexible solution for mobility, VARON offers devices designed to match your lifestyle and health needs. The at home oxygen concentrator ensures reliable, round-the-clock oxygen delivery, while the lightweight portable oxygen concentrator gives you the freedom to maintain oxygen therapy anywhere you go — without sacrificing performance or comfort.

VARON Serene 5 — At Home Oxygen Concentrator

A 5L medical-grade device delivering a steady 93±3% oxygen concentration at adjustable flow rates from 0.5 to 5 L/min. Quiet operation (under 43dB), integrated nebulizer, large humidification bottle, and intuitive LCD controls make it ideal for all-day, in-home use. Universal wheels ensure easy room-to-room mobility.

VARON VP-8G — Lightweight Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Weighing just 4.37 lbs, this portable model offers 8 pulse-flow settings with smart breath-synchronized delivery, ensuring oxygen is supplied only when needed. It features a removable battery for extended outdoor use, multiple power options, and a multifunctional carry bag for hands-free mobility.

VARON MY-135B — Portable Nebulizer
Designed for fast, efficient delivery of medication directly to the lungs, this handheld nebulizer is ideal for managing asthma, COPD, or seasonal flare-ups. Lightweight and USB-rechargeable, it offers quiet operation and portability for use anywhere — from home to travel.

Expert Advice from the Field

Respiratory therapists working with VARON recommend that oxygen therapy patients maintain a consistent oxygen regimen even when symptoms improve, as seasonal triggers can cause sudden drops in oxygen saturation. They also advise combining oxygen concentrator use with other preventive measures such as staying hydrated, wearing masks in high-pollen areas, and maintaining proper sleep routines.

Final Days of the Summer Sale

To make respiratory care more accessible ahead of the high-demand fall season, VARON’s Summer Sale — ending in just days — offers:

  • 18% Off Sitewide on all oxygen concentrators, accessories, and respiratory care tools.
  • Up to 40% Off select models and bundles, including the Serene 5 and VP-8G.
  • Free Shipping on orders over $49.

No coupon is required; discounts are applied automatically at checkout.

For additional respiratory wellness tips and sale information, visit VARON’s official website.

About VARON

VARON is a trusted global brand offering advanced oxygen concentrators for both home and travel use. Dedicated to supporting respiratory wellness, VARON empowers users with innovative, easy-to-use devices that promote independence, mobility, and peace of mind.

Media Contact:

VARON Oxygen Solutions
 Email: official@varoninc.com 
 Website: www.varoninc.com

Monport AutoForge Brings Dual-Laser, MOPA, and UV Laser Solutions Together with the World’s First Auto-Load System

NEW YORK, Aug. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Monport will officially launch AutoForge, the world’s first laser engraver with an automatic loading system, on Kickstarter on August 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM EDT. This breakthrough machine combines dual-laser versatility, MOPA fiber laser color marking, and UV crystal engraving with a large 230×230 mm workspace — delivering unmatched speed, precision, and hands-free productivity for creators, small businesses, and manufacturers.

Hands-Free Automation from Start to Finish

At the heart of AutoForge is its Automatic Loading System (ALS) — the first of its kind in the laser engraving industry. The ALS handles the entire workflow: loading materials, identifying, engraving, and unloading them — all without user intervention. Makers can process multiple jobs with one click, while businesses can achieve true batch production efficiency.

AutoForge supports up to six loading modules, enabling simultaneous processing of different materials without pausing for manual changeovers.

3 Specialized Laser Configurations for Every Engraving Need

AutoForge is not just a single machine — it’s a complete engraving ecosystem with three high-performance configurations:

  • 30W Fiber + 20W Diode Dual-Laser Engraver – A powerhouse combo for engraving both metals and non-metals without swapping machines. Perfect for workshops handling diverse orders.
  • 60W MOPA Fiber Laser Engraver – Unlock 100+ vibrant colors on stainless steel with precision color marking. Ideal for brand logos, awards, and decorative projects.
  • 5W UV Laser Engraver – Specialized for subsurface crystal and glass engraving, delivering unmatched clarity for premium gifts and custom art.

This flexibility makes AutoForge stand out among fiber laser cutting machines and diode laser engravers, providing all-in-one capability for any creative or industrial application.

Engrave Virtually Any Material

Whether you’re working with stainless steel, aluminum, copper, wood, acrylic, leather, or glass, AutoForge delivers precise, repeatable results. It can even achieve deep-relief engraving up to 10 mm on stone and 5 mm on copper, making it one of the most versatile metal laser engravers in the market.

Performance Built for Professionals

Speed is another hallmark of AutoForge. Capable of reaching 10,000 mm/s engraving speeds, it’s built for high-throughput environments without compromising on detail. An intelligent cooling system ensures stable operation during long production runs, extending the lifespan of critical components.

Smart Controls, Simple Operation

AutoForge comes equipped with intuitive features to make laser engraving accessible to everyone:

  • Offline Engraving – No computer required; simply load your design via USB.
  • 4.3-inch Touchscreen – Adjust settings, switch modes, and monitor jobs effortlessly.
  • Auto Focus – Automatically adjusts for material thickness to ensure consistent precision.
  • Safety Glide Door with Detection – Pauses operation instantly when opened.

“Our vision with AutoForge is simple,” said Monport CEO. “We wanted to take the power and precision of a professional fiber laser engraver machine and make it smarter — truly hands-free. By integrating an automatic loading system, we’re not just giving people a tool; we’re giving them time back. Whether you’re a small business scaling production or an artist pushing the limits of design, AutoForge adapts to your needs. Kickstarter is the perfect platform to bring this innovation to life, and we can’t wait to see what our backers create.”

Kickstarter Launch & Early Bird Offer

AutoForge launches on Kickstarter with an exclusive Early Bird discount — save up to $2,000 off retail with just a $10 deposit. Early supporters can secure their unit at up to 33% off the final price.

  • AutoForge XPro – Dual-Laser (30W Fiber + 20W Diode) —  ($3,299)
    • Super Early Bird – 33% OFF — $2,199 ($3,299) (Limit: 50 units)
    • Early Bird – 27% OFF — $2,399  ($3,299) (Limit: 50 units)
    • Kickstarter Special – 18% OFF — $2,699  ($3,299)
  • AutoForge MOPA 60W – Professional Color Marking — (5,999)
    • Super Early Bird – 33% OFF — $3,999 (Limit: 50 units)
    • Early Bird – 30% OFF — $4,199 (Limit: 50 units)
    • Kickstarter Special – 23% OFF — $4,599
  • AutoForge UV 5W – Crystal & Glass Precision Engraving — (5,999)
    • Super Early Bird – 33% OFF — $3,999 (Limit: 50 units)
    • Early Bird – 30% OFF — $4,199 (Limit: 50 units)
    • Kickstarter Special – 23% OFF — $4,599

Reserve yours today for just $10 in Kickstarter and lock in your exclusive Early Bird savings!

About Monport

Monport is a leader in laser engraving technology, offering cutting-edge solutions for hobbyists, small businesses, and industrial clients. Known for precision engineering and innovation, Monport’s lineup includes fiber laser cutting machines, MOPA fiber laser engravers, and diode laser engravers that set industry standards.

Join the AutoForge List

Follow Monport on its official website, social media, and YouTube for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes development stories, and early access deals.

Media Contact

Company: Monport Laser
Email: official@monportlaser.com
Website: https://www.monportlaser.com/

 

China UnionPay’s Poetry POS Machine Campaign Starts Global Heart-Warming Journey in Thailand


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 August 2025 – Recently, alongside a Chinese lantern festival held in Thailand, UnionPay’s Poetry POS Machine public welfare initiative brought the poems of Chinese children in mountainous areas overseas for the very first time. During the event, the “Poetry Lights the Heart’s Lantern” Bangkok lantern and poem festival was also staged.

China UnionPay's Poetry POS Machine Campaign in Bangkok
China UnionPay’s Poetry POS Machine Campaign in Bangkok

On-site, the overseas charity booth of UnionPay’s Poetry POS Machine, nestled beneath the China-Thailand friendship lantern display, stood out prominently. The large central lantern at the booth was breathtakingly beautiful, while the surrounding lanterns were adorned with children’s poems in both Chinese and Thai.

Thai children recited verses by their Chinese peers, savoring the childlike wonder and joy from China. Visitors to the booth could either make donations by swiping their UnionPay cards on the POS machine to receive a bilingual Chinese-Thai poetry receipt, or record a poetry-reading audio for free and get a postcard with an audio QR code – a unique memento to call their own.

Notably, all donations from the event will be channeled through a local Thai charity foundation to improve the lives and education of local children.

As a leading international card network, UnionPay is widely accepted in Thailand, with its global acceptance network spanning 183 countries and regions.

“We believe that despite the distance between China and Thailand, the sincerity and warmth in these poems are shared by all. For poetry is a universal language of humanity, a home where all souls can find solace; just as lanterns, no matter where they glow, embody our shared longing for light and warmth,” a China UnionPay spokesperson.

To shine a light on the talents of children in mountainous regions, China UnionPay took their poems beyond the mountains and launched the Poetry POS Machine initiative in 2019. To date, the initiative has reached over 400 schools in mountainous areas in Anhui, Henan, Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Xinjiang, and other regions, benefiting more than 7,000 local children with art education programs.

So far, the campaign has collected over 6,000 poems and published an anthology. Additionally, the first UnionPay public welfare library and 114 public welfare book corners have been put into use in Jinzhai County, central China’s Anhui Province.

Hashtag: #ChinaUnionPay

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

Cyberscope Files U.S. Patent for World’s First AI-Optimized Blockchain Trust Scoring Platform

Patent-backed innovation set to transform the blockchain security market and redefine Web3 trust, transparency, and fraud detection.

  • A Patent-Backed Innovation Designed to Drive Revenue, Market Share, and Client Confidence
  • Unlocking New Commercial Opportunities in Web3 Risk Intelligence
  • The First AI-Optimized Security Engine to Fuse On-Chain, Off-Chain, and Market Data at Scale

NEW YORK, Aug. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cyberscope, the Web3 security arm of TAC InfoSec Limited (NSE: TAC), a global leader in cybersecurity and vulnerability management, today announced that it filed a patent for Cyberscope Cyberscan in the United States — the world’s first AI-optimized, multi-domain blockchain trust scoring and fraud detection platform.

This breakthrough is designed to give investors, exchanges, and regulators a real-time, verifiable trust score for every blockchain project, turning fragmented, manual due diligence into instant, actionable intelligence.

Defining the Next Era of Web3 Security Trust

Cyberscope Cyberscan fuses on-chain, off-chain, and Web2 data at scale, delivering actionable security intelligence in under five seconds. The patented technology is set to unlock new commercial opportunities across the blockchain security market.

Key First-Mover Capabilities:

  • Dual-Mode Polling Engine: Combines Slow Mode batch re-indexing for deep coverage with Fast Mode real-time scans for instant insights.
  • Multi-Domain Intelligence Fusion: Integrates smart contract analysis, liquidity metrics, GitHub activity, DNS audits, and KYC/Audit verification into a unified trust score.
  • Adaptive Prioritization: Dynamically targets high-risk projects based on listing status, market cap, and activity spikes.
  • Live Malicious Behavior Detection: Flags honeypots, rug pulls, liquidity manipulation, and privileged functions before damage occurs.
  • Cross-Domain Correlation Engine: Links suspicious blockchain activity with anomalies in domain registrations, code changes, and market behavior.

Business Impact

  • Reducing Investor Risk: Instant red flags for scam patterns and security vulnerabilities.
  • Empowering Exchanges & Launchpads: Automated, embedded trust scoring via developer-ready API.
  • Regulatory Alignment: Standardized, auditable trust metrics for compliance reporting.
  • Driving Market Confidence: A scalable framework for capital markets to embrace Web3 safely.

Leadership Commentary

Trishneet Arora, Founder & CEO, TAC Security:

“For the decentralized economy to thrive, trust can’t be optional, it must be engineered into the system. Cyberscope doesn’t just measure credibility, it defines it, instantly, for every project in the market. This is the intelligence layer that empowers investors to act decisively, enables exchanges to list with confidence, and allows capital to move into Web3 without hesitation. With this patent, we’re not just talking about blockchain trust; we’re building it today.”

Saransh Rawat, CTO, TAC Security & Co-Founder, Cyberscope:

“Every once in a while, a technology comes along that changes the rules entirely — Cyberscan is that moment for Web3 security. We’ve created a platform that doesn’t just scan; it understands. It reads the signals across blockchains, marketplaces, and code repositories, turning them into instant, trustworthy intelligence. This is the foundation for a safer, smarter, and truly scalable decentralized future.”

About Cyberscope, a TAC Security Company

Cyberscope, a TAC Security Company, is a leading provider of Web3 Security, smart contract auditing, and compliance solutions, serving a global client base across the decentralized finance, blockchain, and digital asset sectors. Founded in 2023, the company has completed over 2,700 smart contract audits and 500+ KYC verifications, securing more than $2 billion in digital assets for over 3,000 clients. Cyberscope’s proprietary tools combine automated and manual analysis to deliver rapid, high-quality security assessments recognized by major industry platforms such as CoinMarketCap, PinkSale, and DxSale. With a reputation for quality, speed, and trust, and backed by the resources and global reach of TAC Security, Cyberscope is positioned to set new standards for security, transparency, and compliance in the rapidly evolving Web3 ecosystem.

For more information, visit https://cyberscope.io

Media Contact U.S.

Crocker Coulson, AUM Advisors
Crocker.coulson@aumadvisors.com

Bybit’s Daily Treasure Hunt Returns with 220,000 USDT Prize Pool and Lower Entry Barriers

DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has announced the return of its Daily Treasure Hunt event in a newly enhanced, lower‑barrier format designed to be easy to join and rewarding for all participants, especially new users. Running from August 18 to September 21, 2025, the reimagined campaign features simpler mechanics, a monthly rewards structure, and instant‑win opportunities, making it easier than ever to take part and win.

Key changes in this year’s campaign include:

Lower barrier to rewards: users can trade as little as 1,000 USDT daily to collect 100 points per day — enough to redeem rewards worth up to 100 USDT during the campaign, on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

Monthly rewards format: points now accumulate over the month, with access to a 220,000 USDT monthly prize pool.

Simpler, more varied tasks: a wider range of daily, limited‑time, and engagement tasks, from small‑volume trades to exploring new features or consuming educational content.

New reward features: daily check‑ins with bonus points for consecutive logins (no cost, no trade required), plus scratch cards (100,000 available) redeemable for instant prizes up to 1,000 USDT, contributing to a 100,000 USDT scratch prize pool.

This campaign is designed with new users in mind, ensuring a level playing field for all participants. There’s no need to worry about large-scale traders dominating the rewards — everyone has an equal opportunity to benefit. The focus is simple: Small is big, meaning even small trades across any product are counted. And Slow is fast — by checking in for 20 consecutive days, users can earn an extra 10 points, entirely for free. It’s a straightforward, inclusive approach that rewards consistency and participation, not just high-volume trading.

The revamped Points Plaza remains a central feature, allowing users to redeem points for cash rewards, airdrops valued up to 100 USDT, or exclusive benefits such as VIP Trial Passes for premium features lasting seven days or more.

The latest iteration of Daily Treasure Hunt reflects Bybit’s commitment to offering lower‑barrier, inclusive campaigns that reward consistent participation and make it simple for anyone, especially new users, to enjoy the platform.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

Bybit’s Daily Treasure Hunt Returns with 220,000 USDT Prize Pool and Lower Entry Barriers
Bybit’s Daily Treasure Hunt Returns with 220,000 USDT Prize Pool and Lower Entry Barriers

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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CoCo Bubble Tea Expands Deeper into North America with Focus on Smaller Cities

New store openings in Canada and Texas reflect CoCo’s deepening market presence and
robust long-term relationships with franchise partners

TORONTO and LOS ANGELES, Aug. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leading boba tea brand CoCo Bubble Tea today announced a series of key expansion milestones across North America, with a new focus on smaller Canadian cities and continued momentum in the U.S. market. These openings reflect the brand’s sustained popularity, cultural integration, and robust support for its franchise network.

“As bubble tea becomes a staple refreshment in North America, we see significant potential for growth outside of major cities,” commented Kody Wong, Director of Business Development at CoCo Bubble Tea. “From Alberta to Texas, CoCo’s franchise partners are bringing our brand to new communities and increasing access to authentic bubble tea for millions of North American consumers. We are immensely grateful to our partners for the passion and commitment it has taken to accomplish this.”

Canada: Going beyond the big cities

Already a top-three brand in Toronto with over 120 stores nationwide, CoCo is now reaching new heights of market penetration:

  • Recently opened: Lethbridge, Grand Prairie, Red Deer — bringing authentic CoCo bubble tea to new communities across Alberta.
  • Coming soon in 2025: Saskatoon, as the brand extends its footprint deeper into the Canadian Prairie provinces.

CoCo Bubble Tea in Red Deer, Alberta
CoCo Bubble Tea in Red Deer, Alberta

 

CoCo Bubble Tea in Lethbridge, Alberta
CoCo Bubble Tea in Lethbridge, Alberta

U.S. expansion driven by Texas

CoCo opened its first overseas store in the United States in 2011, establishing itself as one of the pioneering new tea brands to expand globally. In 2025, CoCo has identified Texas as a key priority market in its U.S. growth strategy:

  • Dallas: Store opened in April 2025

CoCo Bubble Tea in Dallas, Texas
CoCo Bubble Tea in Dallas, Texas

Upcoming franchise activities

CoCo will exhibit at two upcoming major franchise expos in the region:

  • Franchise Expo West 2025
     Los Angeles Convention Center | Booth #525
     September 5–6, 10AM–4PM
  • Toronto Fall Franchise Show
     The International Centre | Booth #148
     September 13–14, 11AM–5PM

Culture and community powering success

CoCo’s approach to franchising is rooted in trust, support, and building long-term relationships with partners. In Canada, the same franchise partners have been with CoCo for 11 years; in New York City, partners have grown alongside the brand for 14 years — both a testament to CoCo’s value-driven model and collaborative culture.

To further spread pearl milk tea culture globally, the brand focuses on harnessing the popularity of the refreshment among younger consumers through social media. Also, employees and partners are referred to as ” Boba Squad”, a name embodying the resilience and vibrancy of the brand.

In Canada, CoCo has invested heavily in synergies with local cultures. The brand has transformed fan-favorite drinks like its passionfruit series into popsicles now sold in T&T Supermarket locations across the country. In a collaboration with Barbie, CoCo brought “Strawberry Dreamer” drinks to over 100 stores across North America. This further showcases how the brand continues to innovate with purpose and reach younger audiences through pop culture.

Empowering partners

To support franchise partners, CoCo provides robust support tailored to its North American network, including:

  • Dedicated logistics and supply chain for the region
  • Local operations and consulting teams offering in-person support and business strategy
  • Regional training programs
  • Product R&D and adaptation for local tastes
  • A single-store program that empowers individual entrepreneurs to build community-driven success stories

For franchise inquiries in North America, visit: https://www.coco-tea.com/Franchise

About CoCo Bubble Tea

CoCo Bubble Tea aims to create a diverse and sustainable community for its consumers by providing visually refreshing products. We continue to be one of the fastest-growing companies and are looking for enterprising partners to join the CoCo Bubble Tea franchise networks. Check CoCo Bubble Tea’s official website and start your application now.

For more information, please visit https://www.coco-tea.com/.

Eternal Beauty Holdings Releases Fragrance Market Trends White Paper, Showcasing a US$10 Billion Blue Ocean Opportunity

Cross-industry Leaders Unite at the Forum: Pioneering the “New Era of Emotional Wellness” in the Fragrance Industry

Download Press Material: https://bit.ly/3UtwTa8

HONG KONG, Aug. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Eternal Beauty Holdings Limited (“Eternal Beauty Holdings” or the “Group”), a pioneer in China’s fragrance industry, hosted the “Fragrance Evolution: Trends, Opportunities and Future” forum at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, and officially released the “2025 Hong Kong and Macau Fragrance Market Trends White Paper” (“White Paper”) in collaboration with its International Fragrance Association. The White Paper provides an in-depth analysis of structural shifts in consumer trends in Hong Kong and Macau – from the mainstreaming of home fragrances to its evolving role in emotional wellbeing, equipping stakeholders with data-driven strategies for the new era.

The forum centered on elevating industry practices through real-world applications, bringing together cross-industry leaders for in-depth discussions. Distinguished speakers included Ms. Chole Lam, Executive Director and CEO of Eternal Beauty Holdings; Mr. Horace Lam, CEO of K11 Hong Kong and Mr. Mayao Ma, a singer and renowned fragrance enthusiast. The discussion explored innovative applications of fragrance experiences in retail, pop culture and commercial domains, highlighting scent’s revolutionary potential across these sectors.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Wendy Lau, Executive Director of Eternal Beauty Holdings and Chairman of the International Fragrance Association, stressed: “The White Paper research has found the fragrance industry shifting strategically from giving ‘sensory pleasure’ to satisfying ‘core emotional wellness needs’. Boasting channel advantage and a multinational service network for 40 years, the Group will continue to serve as the core bridge for global fragrance brands to enter the Chinese market, push to integrate in depth international innovation with China’s consumption upgrade, and drive high-quality development of the industry.”

Ms. Chole Lam, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Eternal Beauty Holdings, said: “The fragrance industry is transforming from availing products very much ornamental to offering emotional wellness solutions. Close to 30% of Hong Kong and Macau consumers use fragrances to relax their minds and bodies, and 18% to relieve stress and anxiety. Eternal Beauty Holdings, as an industry leader, is committed to promoting overall upgrade of the fragrance industry and is embarking on transforming strategically from offering standalone products to cross-scenario health solutions. Going forward, we will continue to optimize our brand portfolio, deepen our omni-channel layout, so as to fully grasp the golden opportunities in the growing market.”

The White Paper, based on an in-depth survey of 790 consumers from Hong Kong and Macau conducted in July 2025, reveals three pivotal market shifts (click here for full White Paper):

  • Rise in the prevalence of home fragrance usage: 81% of consumers now incorporate fragrances into daily routines, representing a 9% increase compared to 2024
  • Emotion-driven consumption: 86% of consumers extend personal perfume preferences to living spaces, fragrances are no longer luxuries, but also essentials for emotions and wellness.
  • Rise of olfactory economy in commercial spaces: 70% of consumer prefer commercial spaces with fragrance design, indicating olfactory experiences redefine retail landscape.

Five Core Consumer Market Insights:

  1. Emotional wellness as primary driver: fragrances serve as key mediums for promoting physical and mental relaxation (30%), comfort and happiness (26.8%), and a sense of calm and tranquility (22%), while addressing stress and anxiety relief for nearly 18% of consumers, highlighting the market’s leadership in “emotional wellness” values.
  2. Commercial space influence: 70% of consumers prefer malls and hotels with fragrance designs, with K11 MUSEA leading at 43% brand recognition. 58 % report that fragrance applications will encourage their stay, and 52% believe will increase their desire to make purchases.
  3. Experiential consumption drives decisions: 43% respondents rank in-store olfactory experiences as their top purchase consideration, significantly surpassing recommendations from family and friends (24%) and online reviews (15.8%).
  4. Sustainability challenges: While 53.5% consumers prioritize natural ingredients, only 16.7% participate in fragrance bottle recycling programs. For sustainable packaging, 46.5% are willing to pay for the extra price, and 53.9% are receptive to reduced longevity due to the exclusion of certain synthetic ingredients.
  5. Personalization and technology integration: 75% respondents embrace innovations like AI-driven fragrance customization systems, while 80% engage with in-store scent interactions. Only 11% have tried AR/VR scent devices, indicating these technologies are still in its early stages of application. 

In the “Strategic Insights” session, Ms. Cindy Zhong, Director of General Affair at the Eternal Group, together with Ms. Elly Yip, Head of SME One, Hong Kong Productivity Council, shared practical guidance for entering the Chinese market. They introduced how Eternal Beauty Holdings compliance filing channel and the 360 omnichannel operation model assist brands in efficiently establishing a presence in the Chinese market. The session also analyzed how Hong Kong government funding initiatives, such as “BUD Fund” and “EMF”, enable businesses to expand into the Mainland market. Additionally, strategies for successfully applying to these funding programs are shared in the sharing session.

The global olfactory economy is rapidly developing, with fragrance products transitioning from lifestyle accessories to core elements of spatial experience. According to market data forecasts, the global home fragrance market is expected to reach USD 40 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.56%. Considering this trend, Eternal Beauty Holdings continues to upgrade its dual-track strategy of “Local Brand Matrix” and “Perfume Box Retail Upgrade”, driving health-conscious consumer trends to become scalable commercial achievements.

To seize the market opportunity in “emotional wellness,” the Group plans to establish its first fragrance experiential flagship store in Hong Kong in the second quarter of 2026, creating a brand-new immersive retail experience for customers to appreciate the extraordinary charm of various international and niche fragrance brands. Eternal Beauty Holdings will continue to lead the healthy development of the fragrance market, partnering with several international brands and collaborators to drive the fragrance industry into an “emotional wellness new era.”

Industry leaders gathered at the scene (from left to right), including Ms. Elly Yip, Head of SME One, Hong Kong Productivity Council, Mr. Mayao Ma, singer and seasoned fragrance enthusiast, Ms. Annie Chang, Section Head of Business Development, Exhibitions and Digital Business Department at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms. Wendy Lau, Executive Director of Eternal Beauty Holdings and Chairman of the International Fragrance Association, Ms. Chole Lam, Executive Director and CEO of Eternal Beauty Holdings, Mr. Horace Lam, CEO of K11 Hong Kong, Mr. Baggio Chu, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Eternal Beauty Holdings and Ms. Cindy Zhong, Director of General Affair at the Eternal Group, witnessing the release of the White Paper together.
Industry leaders gathered at the scene (from left to right), including Ms. Elly Yip, Head of SME One, Hong Kong Productivity Council, Mr. Mayao Ma, singer and seasoned fragrance enthusiast, Ms. Annie Chang, Section Head of Business Development, Exhibitions and Digital Business Department at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms. Wendy Lau, Executive Director of Eternal Beauty Holdings and Chairman of the International Fragrance Association, Ms. Chole Lam, Executive Director and CEO of Eternal Beauty Holdings, Mr. Horace Lam, CEO of K11 Hong Kong, Mr. Baggio Chu, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Eternal Beauty Holdings and Ms. Cindy Zhong, Director of General Affair at the Eternal Group, witnessing the release of the White Paper together.

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About Eternal Beauty Holdings Limited

Eternal Beauty Holdings Limited is the largest perfume group (apart from brand-owner perfume groups) in China (including Hong Kong and Macau) in terms of retail sales in 2023. It primarily sells and distributes products procured from third-party brand licensors, and deploys market for these brand licensors, offering such services as brand management, and designing and implementing customized market entry and expansion plans for their brands. The Group boasts large and diversified brand portfolios that include not only perfumes, but also color cosmetics, skincare products, personal care products, eyewear and home fragrances. As at 10 June 2025, it conducted product distribution and market deployment for a total of 72 external brands, including Hermès, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chopard, Albion and Laura Mercier, with products in different pricing tiers and of versatile features that meet the differentiated demands of consumers in mainland China, Hong Kong and/or Macau.

About International Fragrance Association

Established in 2024, the International Fragrance Association, founded by the Eternal Group, is dedicated to enriching the art and culture of fragrances. It aims to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation among the public for the intricate relationship between scents and art, history, and innovation. Through the influential force of fragrances, the foundation strives to promote inclusivity and unity within the diverse cultural tapestry. Embracing its role as a trailblazer and advocate, the foundation seeks to ignite societal transformation and harmony, transcending cultural barriers with a fervent embrace of the world of fragrances.

The association is dedicated to harnessing the power of fragrance to foster cultural exchange and appreciation in the world of perfumery, while igniting passion for the art of scent. We strive to amplify the influence of fragrance culture in the market by cultivating and elevating public awareness and appreciation for perfumery products, brands, stories, and heritage. Through meticulously curated events, exhibitions, workshops, and immersive experiences, we have established a sustainable and interconnected platform that enables fragrance enthusiasts and connoisseurs to delve into the captivating narratives and cultural richness behind international perfume houses. Using the allure of fragrance as a medium, we aim to strengthen social cohesion and create an inclusive environment, positioning ourselves as a driving force for societal transformation and cultural integration.

The above press release was written and issued by Eternal Group, media enquiries:

Eternal Group

SPRG

Email: pr@eternal.hk 

Email: sprg_projectbeauty@sprg.com.hk

Tel: (852) 2796 2668