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UTILITY ANNOUNCES PARKER MEEKS AS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

 Meeks’ initial focus includes driving active commercialization phase for Utility’s leading clean hydrogen production technology, profitably transitioning heavy-industry across a strong global pipeline

HOUSTON, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Utility, a leader in affordable, reliable and clean hydrogen solutions that drive profitable energy transition for hard-to-abate industries worldwide, today announced Parker Meeks will take the helm as CEO to drive the company’s rapid global commercialization of its H2Gen® systems, effective immediately.

Meeks brings a proven track record of driving strategic growth, operational performance and technology commercialization across a range of global industries and business environments, including traditional energy, energy transition, infrastructure and mobility.

With the company’s technology and customer demonstration phase successfully completed, Meeks will spearhead the rapid commercialization and global deployment of new H2Gen systems. He will leverage his extensive expertise in both technology commercialization and several of Utility’s high potential markets, including hydrogen supply to mobility, data centers and heavy industry.

Prior to joining Utility, Meeks served as CEO of Hyzon, where he successfully led the development and commercialization of cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell system technology. He has also held leadership positions overseeing businesses with significant P&L responsibility under private equity ownership focusing on technology and high-growth initiatives. Meeks also spent over a decade in management consulting primarily to the global energy and infrastructure sectors, including as a Partner at McKinsey & Company and as the Managing Partner of McKinsey’s Houston office.  

“I am thrilled to join Utility at an exciting inflection point in the company’s trajectory, as we transition our economic hydrogen production solution from its successful demonstration phase to commercial deployment,” Meeks said. “Utility’s technology solution has proven itself in hard-to-abate environments such as steel plant operations, and industry-leading customers are actively engaging across end markets on a global scale due to Utility’s clear advantages.” According to Meeks, “Utility’s scalable, modular technology uniquely offers flexibility across geographies and end markets with a common product solution, fundamental profitability, and strong investor support.”

Solidly backed by Ara Partners, a global private equity and infrastructure investment firm with approximately $6.3 billion of assets under management – alongside several other strategic investors – Utility is well positioned to ramp up commercialization and continue its growth, which Meeks will aptly guide the company through.

Cory Steffek, partner at Ara Partners, commented, “Bringing Parker Meeks on board is a game-changer for Utility. With a rare blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, industry relationships and a track record of scaling emerging technologies, Meeks is exactly the leader needed to take Utility to full-scale commercialization. His ability to navigate complex markets, secure key partnerships, and execute at speed will be instrumental in driving the company’s next phase of critical growth.”

The Houston native takes the leadership baton from previous CEO, Claus Nussgruber, who will remain as strategic advisor to Meeks, ensuring a smooth transition. “The Board of Directors thanks Claus for his leadership over the past three years,” said Steffek. “His efforts were instrumental in demonstrating Utility’s breakthrough technology at a customer steel plant, securing funding from industry leaders such as ArcelorMittal, and expanding the company’s global position.”

As CEO since mid-2021, Nussgruber oversaw significant technical and operational advancements, derisking the technology with a series of breakthrough milestones, including delivering the first plant ever to successfully produce hydrogen directly from blast furnace gas in the hard-to-decarbonize steel industry. Under his leadership, Utility built a highly capable team and developed a strong global customer pipeline across several markets, most notably steel and biogas to hydrogen, including the recent ArcelorMittal funding and GH EnA Project Development announcements. Utility has consistently delivered on its operational and product milestones, a track record the company expects to continue and expand to commercial delivery under Meeks’ leadership.

Utility Global, Inc. (www.utilityglobal.com) is a portfolio company of Ara Partners (www.arapartners.com), a private equity firm specializing in industrial decarbonization investments.

About Utility

Utility is a Houston, Texas-based off-gas-to-value company built specifically to enable affordable decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors like mobility, steel and others. Utility’s H2Gen® system, built on the proprietary eXERO™ gas production technology, needs no electricity to utilize the remaining electrochemical energy contained in a wide range of dilute off-gases to produce high-purity clean hydrogen from water. 

Utility’s H2Gen systems are highly scalable, modular, smaller in size and compatible with existing industrial processes and assets. H2Gen minimizes balance of plant, increases operational flexibility and offers attractive benefits in total cost of ownership. Utility helps companies in hard-to-abate industries meet sustainability and business goals by reducing emissions, energy use and waste profitably. Utility turns the environmental challenges of off-gases into competitive advantages as onsite energy, fuel or feedstock.

About Ara Partners

Founded in 2017, Ara Partners is a global private equity and infrastructure firm dedicated to decarbonizing the industrial economy. Ara seeks to build, scale, and optimize companies with significant decarbonization impact across the industrial and manufacturing, chemicals and materials, energy efficiency and fuels, and food and agriculture sectors. The company operates from offices in Houston, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Dublin. Ara Partners closed its third private equity fund in December 2023 with over $2.8 billion in new capital commitments. As of September 2024, Ara Partners had approximately $6.3 billion of assets under management.

For more information about Ara Partners, please visit www.arapartners.com.

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HIMIAO Unveils BhairCx3™ Shine Factor —- A Breakthrough in Feline Fur Care

XI’AN, China, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The number of cat owners has surged dramatically in recent years. According to the 2025 White Paper on China’s Pet Industry, the number of pet cats in China surpassed 71.53 million in 2024, accounting for 57.6% of all pet-owning households. However, as cat ownership grows, many owners are increasingly troubled by common coat issues such as dryness, excessive shedding, and dull fur. These problems not only affect their feline companion’s appearance but also may indicate underlying skin health concerns. Scientifically addressing and understanding  coat care has become a top priority for pet owners.

In response to these challenges, HIMIAO has acquired cutting-edge technology from PNB Corporation (USA) and introduces its exclusive BhairCx3™ Shine Factor, setting a new standard in feline coat care. This breakthrough innovation brings a game-changing approach to cat owners .

What Makes BhairCx3™ the Ultimate Fur Solution?

BhairCx3™ Shine Factor is an advanced bio-active complex formulated with a unique blend of Centella Asiatica extract, Turmeric, and Brewer’s Yeast Postbiotics. Backed by rigorous scientific studies, this formula dramatically enhances fur shine, softness, and resilience. Beyond enhancing beauty, BhairCx3™ also supports cognitive function, reduces anxiety, and strengthens immunity, ensuring that cats appear radiant and thrive in health and vitality.

Centella Asiatica Extract – Sourced from the pristine Rocky Mountains, this high-purity Asiaticoside-rich extract is proven to accelerate skin regeneration, reduce inflammation, and create a strong foundation for optimal fur growth.

Turmeric Bioactives – Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric helps regulate follicle microcirculation, minimizing breakage and excessive shedding, while promoting healthy coat regeneration from the root.

Brewer’s Yeast Postbiotics – Packed with essential amino acids and B vitamins, this potent ingredient enhances immune resilience and optimizes skin microbiome balance.

Beyond its remarkable benefits for feline coat health, BhairCx3™ Shine Factor has passed rigorous SGS international safety certification, guaranteeing it is 100% free from hormones and irritants, making it safe even for cats with sensitive skin.

Through a strategic, high-value acquisition, HIMIAO has secured the global exclusive rights to BhairCx3™, reinforcing its leadership in pet technology. This milestone not only marks a breakthrough in feline coat care but also solidifies HIMIAO’s commitment to pioneering innovation in the pet industry.

Technology-Driven Fur Care Powered by Visionary Innovation

As an innovative bioactive complex designed specifically for feline coat health, BhairCx3™ has already received permanent trademark registration in the United States, with the official technology transfer process underway.

Additionally, HIMIAO is spearheading patent applications in China for its proprietary tri-active formula, leveraging the synergy of Rocky Mountain Centella Asiatica extract, Brewer’s Yeast, and Turmeric. The expected approval of these patents within the next six months will further cement HIMIAO’s status as a trailblazer in pet nutrition science.

Since its inception in June 2017, HIMIAO has been committed to premium-quality feline nutrition. The upcoming next generation of HIMIAO cat food, powered by BhairCx3™ technology, will seamlessly integrate patented formulations with superior natural ingredients, delivering a comprehensive, inside-out approach to feline nutrition and fur care. Pet owners can soon experience this nutrient-rich beauty booster through HIMIAO’s multi-channel retail presence, available both online and offline.

At the forefront of feline health innovation, HIMIAO, as a rising force in nutrition science, is redefining pet nutrition with a bold vision—to become the global leader in feline nutritional science. Going beyond coat care, HIMIAO, alongside its sub-brand ALSKADE, is actively exploring areas such as coat management, gut microbiome balance, urinary tract health, bone development, and weight management, employing a scientific, data-driven approach to holistic feline well-being. Collaborating with leading universities, globally recognized animal research institutions, and top-tier veterinary scientists, HIMIAO is dedicated to developing clinically validated nutritional solutions that deliver real results.

Looking ahead, HIMIAO will continue to expand its global strategic footprint, leveraging proprietary patents as a catalyst for innovation. The company is poised to introduce smarter, scientifically advanced pet wellness solutions, showcasing China’s leadership in pet technology on the global stage.

K-Beauty Brand ANUA Expands to 1,400 Ulta Beauty Stores Nationwide

ANUA Expands to the nation’s largest beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty, Strengthening Its Presence in North America

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global brand-building company The Founders (Co-CEOs Seonhyeong Lee and Changju Lee) is expanding the presence of its K-beauty skincare brand ANUA in the U.S market through a strategic partnership with the nation’s largest beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty.

ANUA, which first launched on Ulta.com in December 2024, expanded to 1,400 stores across the U.S. on February 2nd, 2025, strengthening its connection with North American consumers. ANUA will come to life in stores, through branded eye-catching display and front-of-store table featuring the brand’s bestsellers. Additionally, guests who make purchases of over a certain amount will receive a Double Cleansing Duo set as a gift with the purchase through February 22nd, 2025.

ANUA continues to win over global consumers through its effective localization strategies and distinctive marketing approach. One of the brand’s standout achievements is its success on social platform, TikTok, where its total brand-related content has garnered over 2.4 billion views, particularly resonating with the Gen Z audience. ANUA’s bestselling product, the Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil, has gained massive attention on the app, accumulating more than 338 million views, further establishing its position as a leading K-Beauty brand.

“We are delighted to achieve such strong results as we successfully expand into the competitive U.S. retail market, following our online success,” said an ANUA representative. “Through our continued partnership with Ulta Beauty, we will work toward becoming a global No.1 skincare brand through strategic marketing initiatives and innovative product development tailored to our customers.”

About the Brand

Global Beauty Brand ANUA 

Launched in 2019, ANUA is a skincare brand committed to developing targeted solutions for diverse skin concerns, powered by carefully selected natural and dermatological ingredients. The brand’s bestsellers include the Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil; Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam; Niacinamide 10 TXA 4 Serum. ANUA has emerged as a leading K-beauty skincare brand, achieving remarkable growth across global retail platforms, including Amazon and eBay Japan.

Anua partnered with Breakthru Beauty’s Allison Slater Ray and Lisa Hamilton on the launch.

Platonic Unveils aOS™: The Operating System for Autonomous Finance

The Asset Operating System, aOS, unlocks global capital markets with intelligent, self-executing assets.

NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Platonic today introduced aOS™, a groundbreaking blockchain-native infrastructure that transforms static financial assets into programmable, AI-linked instruments capable of autonomous execution across markets. This innovation unlocks any asset to transact seamlessly, optimize value, and settle instantly—without manual intervention.

“The future of finance is autonomous, intelligent, and borderless,” said Violet Abtahi, CEO of Platonic. “We are architecting a world where value flows like information—aOS is the connective tissue of finance, enabling traditional institutions to participate in the digital-first economy, unlocking $400 trillion in assets that remain static, inefficient, and underutilized.”

A New Era for Financial Markets

Tomorrow’s financial system will look vastly different from the one we know today. A single, global capital market will emerge—one where assets are intelligent and autonomous. Tokenized ownership, real-time settlement, and AI-linked management will dissolve cross-border barriers, unlocking unprecedented liquidity and accessibility. Platonic’s aOS provides the infrastructure to bridge legacy systems into this autonomous economy—transforming static assets into dynamic, revenue-generating instruments for a truly global marketplace.

The platform’s patented architecture combines AI-linked smart contracts, unique privacy channels, and seamless private and public blockchain interoperability to automate complex financial processes that currently require extensive manual intervention. Early pilot programs with major financial institutions have demonstrated dramatic reductions in operational cost and counterparty risk, with one project successfully automating nearly $400 billion in foreign exchange trades.

AOS: The Foundation for the Autonomous Economy

The opportunity is extraordinary: tokenized assets are projected to reach up to $16 trillion by 2030, and aOS is designed to unlock this immense potential. By bridging legacy systems with decentralized networks, aOS empowers institutions to lead the shift into the digital-first era.

“Imagine a future where private equities, real estate holdings, and even personal financial data become dynamic, revenue-generating instruments,” said Abtahi. “That future is closer than we think, and aOS is the catalyst making it a reality.”

About Platonic

Platonic is a leading innovator in blockchain-based financial infrastructure, transforming the way global markets operate. By harnessing AI, secure encryption, and decentralized technologies, Platonic builds the bridge between legacy systems and digital finance. Its groundbreaking solutions empower institutions to evolve, stay ahead of change, and embrace the digital economy—converging traditional and digital ecosystems into a single, unified global capital market driven by intelligent, self-executing assets.

For more information about aOS, visit platonic.io.

Media Contact: Neal Stein ZCorp PR +1 321.473.7407 neals@zcorppr.com

Cellid to Exhibit Self-Developed Spectacle-Type AR Glasses at MWC Barcelona 2025

Unveiling a More Accessible, State-of-the-Art AR Glasses Reference Model

TOKYO, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cellid Inc., a developer of AR glasses displays and spatial recognition engines for next-generation devices, will exhibit at the world’s largest mobile exhibition, MWC Barcelona 2025, to be held in Barcelona, Spain from March 3 (Monday) to March 6 (Thursday), 2025.

According to IDC “Worldwide Augmented and Virtual Reality Hardware Forecast, 2022-2026” and the Japan Intellectual Property Research Institute, the technology trend is expected to shift from mobile devices to AR/MR glasses as computers continue to evolve into more user-friendly and personalized devices.

Cellid leads the AR industry in the development of cutting-edge technologies for AR glasses, such as the world’s largest viewing angle glass waveguide, which is as thin and light as ordinary eyeglass lenses and delivers crisp images, and full-color plastic waveguides. Through interactive demonstrations featuring real-world applications, including the reference design (verification model) of the AR glasses announced last November and the latest waveguide technology, visitors can experience the next generation of lightweight AR glasses seamlessly integrating into daily life.


Exhibition Outline
Date: Monday, March 3, 2025Thursday, March 6
Location: Fira Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain, Ground Level, Booth #6G15
Exhibits and Demonstrations:

  • Reference design for the latest waveguide and spectacle-type AR glasses
  • Demonstration utilizing reference design
  • Demonstration of the latest Waveguide products

About Cellid, Inc.
Cellid specializes in the development of advanced AR glass display modules, focusing on waveguides and spatial recognition engines for next-generation devices. Leveraging unique optical simulation and proprietary production technologies, Cellid has developed display modules as thin and lightweight as standard eyeglass lenses, delivering clear images and one of the world’s largest fields of view for waveguides. Additionally, Cellid offers industry-specific solutions powered by spatial recognition technologies such as Cellid SLAM. By integrating cutting-edge AR display hardware with real-world spatial recognition software, Cellid is driving the “Blending of Physical and Digital World,” making exceptional information tools more accessible, practical, and convenient for users worldwide.

Media Contact: 
Michael Kornspan
michael.kornspan@strategicpr.biz 

HOOKII Redefines Smart Lawn Care: 3D LiDAR & Vision Mower Navigation for 2X Faster, 95% Coverage

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HOOKII introduces the world’s first consumer robotic lawn mower powered by 3D LiDAR & Vision Fusion, delivering AI-driven precision cutting. Designed to mow 2X faster than manual methods with 95%+ coverage, it eliminates patchy results while dodging everything from toys to small animals.

3D LiDAR & Vision Mower Navigation for 2X Faster, 95% Coverage
3D LiDAR & Vision Mower Navigation for 2X Faster, 95% Coverage

Tech Breakthroughs:

  • Smart 3D LiDAR & Vision Navigation Scans your yard 200,000 times per second, adjusting in real time for unmatched precision (95%+ coverage, <2 cm accuracy).
  • Mow Day or Night, Rain or Shine AI-powered vision sees through fog and darkness with 98% accuracy.
  • Wire-Free Setup: Map lawns via app in 3 mins – 15X faster than boundary wire systems

User Voice:
“My landscaper brother couldn’t believe the 95% coverage – HOOKII 3D LiDAR made my yard the envy of the neighborhood!”

——Laura Simmons | 2024 Early Adopter

Launch Deal:

  • The first 1,000 buyers save $100 (CODE: HOOKIIPR100). Offer expires soon!
  • Get up to 12% off and 4 free blade sets on qualifying orders!

Experience smarter, more sustainable lawn care today! Visit hookii.com to secure your exclusive offer.

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Transformation and rapid development of Visionary through the business integration

TORONTO, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On January 26, 2025, Visionary’s 2024 Annual Conference was held in Toronto, celebrating the successful listing of Visionary’s Pegasus New Energy Vehicles, SBS Green Energy, UBX FinTech, and American Precision Biotech on the U.S. OTC market. 2024 is a year of strategic business transformation of Visionary and is also a year of relentless hard work for its people. With the strong support of various sectors of society, business partners, colleagues, and clients, Visionary forged ahead with unity and determination. Facing the global market, Visionary successfully transitioned from a traditional education industry to a high-tech diversified multinational conglomerate through continuous business integration. After the integration, Visionary has not only significantly enhanced its core competitiveness but also promised a substantial revenue growth in future. Undoubtedly, the at-home cancer self-testing product filled the gap in world market, as well as the first Canadian independently developed clean energy vehicle brand has been commercially launched. Furthermore, Visionary Pegasus New Energy Vehicles, SBS Green Energy, UBX FinTech, and American Precision Biotech have been successfully listed on the U.S. OTC market along with a plan to transfer to the Nasdaq listing in 2026.

The world today is undergoing a major change that has not been seen in a century. This is a change in the world, the era, and the history. At the same time, a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial changes are developing in depth. Science and technology have become the leading force that drives fundamental changes and all-round reshaping of the way of thinking, organizational structure and operation mode of human society, providing us with new major opportunities for innovation, reshaping and promoting development, and also bringing new challenges. How to develop and peacefully achieve win-win situation has also become a proposition for all countries in the world to think about together.

In this new era of great change, Visionary Holdings is also facing huge challenges and opportunities. How to develop and where to go in the future are critical questions that Visionary is seriously contemplating today. Reflecting on Visionary’s development journey, we firmly believe in the importance of innovation. To better achieve Visionary’s strategic goals and fulfill our social responsibilities, we must steadfastly pursue truth, face difficulties head-on, and continue to rely on the strong support of various sectors in the United States, Canada, and our homeland. Focusing on the aspect of innovation will lead Visionary navigate through this era of great transformation. We will gather global elites, commit ourselves in the development of cutting-edge technologies, break through technological barriers, promote progress of the society, and create a better future for humanity. Every breakthrough is the best reward to the society.

Looking ahead, Visionary will continue to expand its business landscape, deepen international cooperation, and promote global development. We uphold integrity and responsibility, earning the trust and respect of our clients. We are determined to create an even more glorious chapter, becoming a leader in the industry that shapes the future. From now on, Visionary aims to become an open, cooperative, and mutually beneficial listed company accelerator platform, selflessly taking on social responsibilities, creating maximum value for shareholders, and helping partners achieve their capital dreams.

Zhou Fan
fanzhou@farvision.ca

TUMI CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY WITH CAMPAIGN, “MADE FOR YOU SINCE 1975”

With the customer as their muse, the brand showcases their icons and looks to the future 

NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, international travel and lifestyle brand TUMI launches its milestone 50th anniversary campaign, “Made for You Since 1975.” For half a century, TUMI has thoughtfully designed products inspired by the journeys of its customers.

The brand campaign, captured by renowned lifestyle photographer Christopher Anderson and directed by Nim Kyong Ran, explores the personal relationship between TUMI’s most loved items and the people who carry them. The campaign acts as a window into our customers’ lives, spotlighting the versatile features of TUMI luggage and backpacks as dynamic scenes unfold around them. Captured in the beautiful destination of Lisbon, Portugal, the film follows a cast of diverse characters with equally diverse lifestyles carrying iconic TUMI collections, including Alpha, Voyageur and 19 Degree—timeless staples that have defined the brand for years.

“For our golden anniversary, we wanted to honor the core collections that have been the cornerstone of the TUMI brand—crafted with the intent of perfecting our customers’ journey,” said Creative Director Victor Sanz. “This milestone celebrates the future while embracing what our customers have loved most about the brand for over 50 years: longevity, effortlessness, functionality and timeless beauty. Throughout the year, we will continue to evolve and innovate, shaping the future of travel and lifestyle design.”

The film features TUMI’s most iconic and bestselling products: the Alpha International Dual Access Carry-On and the Voyageur Celina Backpack, embodying TUMI’s signature blend of functionality, durability and sophisticated design. The Alpha International Dual Access Carry-On offers innovative organization and easy accessibility, making it ideal for frequent travelers, while the Voyageur Celina Backpack combines elevated aesthetics with practicality, perfect for everyday use or as a stylish travel companion.

For 50 years, TUMI has been crafting world-class lifestyle and travel products designed to elevate journeys for travelers everywhere. Today, with over 300 retail stores in major cities and travel hubs worldwide, TUMI continues to expand its reach, delivering premium products to an ever-growing community of movers and makers.

“For 50 Years TUMI has been focused on our customer and delivering products that make a difference and enhance their travel experience,” said TUMI President Andrew Dawson. ´Whether a day trip to the city or a flight around the world, we aim to perfect every journey. Our strength is our people; we are entrepreneurial and passionate about what we do. We are constantly working to innovate—from technical materials to functional details—always with our customer in mind. This milestone celebrates our accomplishments, but also sets the stage for the continued evolution of the brand for the next 50 years and beyond.”

TUMI will celebrate its 50th anniversary throughout the year with exciting new products and campaigns featuring a cast of Global Ambassadors and friends of the brand.

About TUMI 
Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we’re committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit TUMI.com

TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2025 Tumi, Inc.

TUMI Media Contacts
TUMI Jerad Hulse
Jerad.hulse@tumi.com