Built distinctly for the way Australians work, live, and explore, the new ute is now being handed over to the nation for its final touch – its name

SYDNEY, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Following the unveiling of its upcoming world-first plug-in hybrid diesel ute, Chery Australia is handing the naming rights of the new model to the nation, inviting the Australian public to help name the vehicle through a nationwide competition, with the winner taking home bragging rights and the first Chery ute in Australia.

Designed with Australian lifestyles in mind, the new model is set to arrive in Q4 2026 and is poised to become the world’s first plug-in hybrid diesel ute, combining traditional diesel capability with electrified efficiency, with a 1000kg payload and 3.5 tonne towing capacity.

Utes are an iconic and deeply ingrained part of Australian culture, with over 235,000 new utes sold in 2025 alone, accounting for roughly 20% of all new vehicle sales (source: RACV).

Against this backdrop of national enthusiasm, Chery is giving Australians the unique opportunity to play a role in shaping the vehicle’s global identity by submitting their suggested name via the Chery Australia website.

“Utes aren’t just a vehicle in Australia, they’re a vital part of how we work and play. By introducing the world’s first plug-in hybrid diesel ute, we’re redefining what capability looks like for the segment. We’re excited to give Australians the opportunity to be part of this journey, and help us name the vehicle before it arrives later this year.” said Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer, Chery Australia.

Participants will be asked to submit a proposed name along with a short explanation outlining why it is the right fit for the vehicle. Entries will be reviewed by Chery, with shortlisted names progressing to a public vote before the final name is selected.

The individual who submits the winning name will walk away with a new Chery ute when the vehicle arrives in Australia later this year.

The Great Australian Chery Ute Naming Competition opens at 12:00pm AEDT Thursday 12 March 2026 and closes 11:50pm AEDT Thursday 26 March 2026.

More details and entry information are available on the Chery Australia website at https://cherymotor.com.au/ute-name-comp

ENDS

About Chery Motor Australia:

Chery Australia is a leading automotive brand recognized globally for its commitment to innovation, style, and performance. With a rich history spanning over two decades, Chery has established itself as a pioneer in the industry. Known for producing technologically advanced and visually striking vehicles, Chery offers a diverse range of models that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Each Chery vehicle embodies the brand’s passion for pushing boundaries and redefining the driving experience.   

For more details on Chery visit www.cherymotor.com.au or Instagram @cheryaustralia

Insights from Agoda’s latest report show deeper, integrated localization is linked to stronger commercial outcomes as hotels in India adapt to rising intra-Asia demand

SINGAPORE, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda in its latest report “Tailored to Win: Capturing the High-Value Asian Traveler for Hotels in India” spotlights India as a robust travel market, revealing that nearly 98% of Indian hotels employing advanced localization strategies reported a positive impact on revenue. By comparison, 91% of hotels with basic localization strategies also report positive revenue impact, underscoring that while localization efforts are paying off, a more holistic approach maximises the likelihood of commercial success.

As India looks to increasingly compete in the global travel landscape, localization is becoming even more important. The Ministry of Tourism reported nearly 10 million foreign tourists in 2024^[1], with spending projected to reach INR 3.2 trillion in 2025^[2], driven by both long-haul interest and a growing demand from key Asian markets.

“Indian hotels have built strong domestic businesses, but many are still learning how to reel in the international guest,” shared Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda. “To win them over, localization can’t be treated as a marketing exercise. It has to show up in payments, communication, amenities and service so that it’s apparent at every touchpoint starting from discovery to check out. The data is unequivocal: hotels that go deeper see results with up to 98% reporting a positive revenue impact. The question isn’t whether to localize; it’s how quickly you can move from basics to best-in-class.”

Agoda’s report emphasizes that effective localization goes beyond translation. It involves holistically adapting marketing, booking processes, payment options and on-site services to match the cultural and practical expectations of travelers from different source markets. A more integrated approach allows hotels to better meet traveler expectations at every touchpoint and unlock greater value for inbound demand.  

Despite the potential, Indian hotels face a dual challenge in driving tailor-made strategies: a strategy gap in knowing whom to target and an execution gap in knowing how to deliver. These challenges are reflected in the top barriers cited by hoteliers: A majority (56%) of hoteliers surveyed cite both a limited awareness of cultural norms and uncertainty around which tailoring efforts will have the most impact. This is compounded by 44% who report a lack of both guest data insights and dedicated personnel to drive the initiatives.

As India’s robust tourism looks to define itself by its ability to capture the high-value Asian traveler, the need to deliver culturally attuned and localized guest experiences has become critical. To help hoteliers navigate this, Agoda’s report includes an “Origins Playbook” that dissects traveler motivations across key source markets:

• Malaysian travelers tend to blend family needs with an eye for deals
• Singaporeans are independent planners, booking accommodation separately from flights
• Japanese are a fast-growing market defined by short trips and increasing search interest
• Thai travelers are tech-forward, frequently utilizing AI for travel planning

Agoda’s digital suite for localization includes over 6 million accommodations, support for 39 languages, multi-currency payment options and 24/7 customer support. Dedicated programs such as the Agoda Growth Program for visibility in priority markets, country-specific promotions and Agoda Media Solutions for native-language campaigns are just some of the ways Agoda helps partners localize effectively. Through Agoda’s platform and expertise, hotels can overcome barriers, reach new segments and optimize their returns from international demand.

To explore how practical localization tips and actionable insights can help hotels capture more value from Asia’s diverse traveler base, download the full report at https://ago-da.co/4rgJZpf.

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Brand Promise Group, a global branding firm headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, announced its next phase of strategic evolution at the Partners’ Briefing, Spring 2026, held on the evening of 06 March 2026. Now in its third consecutive year, the annual series has become a company tradition, bringing together partners to align on strategic perspectives and shape upcoming initiatives.

This year’s edition marked a defining moment in The Brand Promise’s journey, as it evolves from a boutique branding firm into a broader platform for partnerships and cross-industry collaboration. The Group’s expanding ecosystem now connects global and local partners across core pillars in branding, education and training, and lifestyle, with initiatives designed to link industries and communities in Vietnam, the wider Asian region, and globally.

New horizons for global key accounts

Heading into 2026, The Brand Promise deepens its collaboration with long-standing global partners across hospitality, travel and business advisory:

Club Med, a pioneer of the all-inclusive vacation concept with more than 70 resorts across 40 countries, continues to position Vietnam as one of its key outbound markets while expanding its regional footprint with the opening of Club Med Borneo, Kota Kinabalu in late 2026. 

STONE Accounting Group, an Australian-based accounting and advisory firm, has laid the foundation for its North American expansion with the first head office in Canada following earlier developments in Australia and Japan, while The Brand Promise supports the firm’s strategic communications as it strengthens its global network.

SODÅ, which is evolving from a hotel management platform into its new identity as SODÅ | Hospitality Partners, is entering a renewed phase of growth, expanding its role across the full hotel lifecycle. From development and pre-opening to operations and market positioning, SODÅ | Hospitality Partners is opening up broader opportunities for integrated, long-term collaborations with its hotel partners.

Preparing Vietnam’s next generations of leaders

Investing in human capital forms a core part of The Brand Promise Group’s direction for 2026, as it expands its education and training pillar.

Through Self-Leadership Lab, an empirical leadership development programme created by professors from the University of Geneva, The Brand Promise will introduce a series of tailored and professional training initiatives that cultivate self-awareness for modern leadership across different career stages.

Now part of The Brand Promise Group, Beyoutiful Vietnam, Vietnam’s first lifestyle concierge and educational service brand dedicated to women, continues to work with selected partners to develop curated programmes and services across lifestyle experiences, hospitality and travel, wellness, fashion, and education in support of personal development and purpose-driven living.

Leading the waves of change in Vietnam’s experience economy

Beyond branding and leadership, the Group brought together partners across gastronomy, wellness, hospitality, culture, and technology to illustrate Vietnam’s evolving experience economy.

Wiking Group hosted the Spring 2026 gathering across two distinctive venues: Wiking Golf, an urban golf experience inspired by a “backyard golf course,” and Wiking Salon, a contemporary art space for cultural and creative gatherings. Rheinland-Pfalz.Gold, in connection with the Business Representation of the German Federal State of Rhineland-Palatinate (RLP) inVietnam, introduced guests to Germany’s heritage of more than 2,000 years of winemaking tradition. Global Café delivered thoughtful catering services, drawing on over 25 years of experience serving international standards.

Hospitality and wellness partners also played a central role in the experience. voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG, set to open in 2026, will bring the brand’s distinctive lifestyle approach to Vietnam’s central coast with a 250-room bay front hotel; Garrya Mu Cang Chai offers a serene mountain retreat amid northern Vietnam’s terraced rice fields; Namia River Retreat is a sanctuary of “living well” located on a peaceful islet along the Thu Bon River in Hoi An;” whereas Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang presents a contemporary beachfront retreat emphasising wellness-inspired experiences and privacy.

Among the partners are lifestyle brands that completed the experience: Bittersweet Chocolatier, Phu Quoc-based artisan chocolatier producing from Vietnamese cacao; Got It, a platform backed by investment from VNG Corporation and one of Vietnam’s leading digital gifting solutions; alongside ETU Handkraft, La Gougah, Eastern Journeys, and AIMWell.

With its expanding network of partners and in-house brands, The Brand Promise Group continues to foster an ecosystem where cross-industry collaboration contributes to tailored, high-value experiences and hospitality initiatives.

The Brand Promise 

A global branding firm with headquarter in Ho Chi Minh City, dedicated to authentic storytelling, strategic growth, and impactful partnerships across industries. Our commitment to evolving quality standards and nurturing communities of hand-picked, like-minded and long-lasting partners ensures that every promise made is honored through our dedication to excellence and shared dedication to turn potential into reality.

Lightweight Poured PU Technology Reclaims its Place in Elite Running and Court Sports

PORTLAND, Ore., March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — For years, industry-standard poured polyurethane (PU) insoles were prized for comfort and durability—however, its weight and density profile have limited its use in premium performance categories. Since DREAMCELL^® VELO’s launch, DSC^® has changed the industry narrative with its breakthrough lightweight poured PU insole technology, engineered to meet the rigorous demands of performance sports, including running, basketball, and tennis. Today, DSC^® released new technical data that supports DREAMCELL^® VELO as a clear leader in the performance category for a poured PU insole.

“Never before was poured PU a solution in the performance conversation, but now, DREAMCELL^® VELO defines it for the elite athlete,” said Mei-Fen Wei, Chief Operating Officer of DSC^®. “DREAMCELL^® VELO is industry-changing and not only delivers a premium lightweight experience with newfound speed-focused advantages, but our direct-pour process creates almost zero material waste.”

In running especially—where every gram counts—traditional poured PU couldn’t compete with lighter foam platforms. DSC^® teams set out to challenge that assumption, creating a breakthrough in the performance category. The DREAMCELL^® VELO innovation stems from applying cross-industry material learnings to meet the footwear performance standards for the elite athlete today.

The new formulation is 60% lighter than traditional poured PU, and delivers excellent resiliency with a low compression set, helping preserve energy transfer over repeated runs, cuts, and jumps. The result is one of the lightest poured PU insole technologies DSC^® has ever created, delivering energy return and long-term performance without the weight. DREAMCELL^® VELO is tuned for performance with its optimized polymer network and cell structure that delivers a faster rebound at a lower density. The lower density mass with high rebound supports faster turnover and reduced fatigue that particularly supports runners, while the resiliency plus low compression set supports a consistent feel through cuts and jumps, and added durability over repeated impacts fine-tuned for sports like basketball and tennis.

DREAMCELL^® VELO vs traditional poured PU*

• Low density profile is .23g/cm³ less (.12 g/cm³ vs. .35g/cm³)
• Approximately 50% rebound performance (vs. 30%)
• Up to 60% lighter material weight for enhanced comfort and efficiency
• Precision molding of intricate design details
• Near zero waste|
  *Performance based on internal ASTM D3574 testing

Performance and lifestyle footwear development teams have responded strongly to DREAMCELL^® VELO’s combination of low weight and robust physical properties. From basketball to running to tennis, brands are recognizing DREAMCELL^® VELO as a versatile solution that bridges comfort and elite performance—while also meeting attractive cost targets.

DSC is committed to creating sustainable solutions for a greener future, including creating eco-innovations like DREAMCELL^® VELO that achieves nearly zero waste. DSC’s direct-pour production reduces trimming and scrap typical of traditional PU methods. DREAMCELL^® VELO is a step in the right direction toward Run the Relay, DSC’s ambitious plan to achieve a zero-carbon, zero-waste future.

DREAMCELL^® VELO will be available to view at The Materials Show in Boston and Portland (March 11-12, 2026).

Since 1945, Dahsheng Company (DSC^®) has been a leader in foam innovation in the sports industry. Known for its premium comfort and performance foam DREAMCELL^® and DURAPONTEX^®, DSC^® partners with top brands and footwear manufacturers worldwide. By advancing innovation and pushing the limits of foam manufacturing, DSC^® is dedicated to creating eco-friendly and advanced foam solutions that set new standards in the industry.

Visit www.dahsheng.com to learn more about DSC^® and its commitment to sustainability and eco-innovation.

Media Contact:
Erin Patterson
t: +1-323-422-0274
e: erin.patterson@writetheskycomms.com

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dahsheng_chemical_logo.jpg

New and enhanced culinary experiences on the menu for World Legend, World Elite and World Select Mastercard cardholders in 10 Asia Pacific markets

SINGAPORE, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of The Mastercard Collection, cardholders globally can now enjoy new and enhanced culinary benefits at the most sought-after restaurants across 10 Asia Pacific (APAC) markets with the Asia Gourmet Circle program. The dining program is an exclusive gateway where cardholders can instantly check reservation availability and book tables at top-tier dining establishments in APAC and around the world.

Created for World Legend, World Elite and World Select Mastercard cardholders globally, Asia Gourmet Circle opens doors to more than 400 award-winning and premium restaurants in Australia, the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The Mastercard Collection unlocks premium benefits for cardholders and their loved ones — at home and where their travels take them. Mastercard cardholders can explore real-time availability and secure coveted tables locally and overseas with just a few clicks, making every journey, celebration, or spontaneous craving one to savor.

“We continue to see a powerful shift toward experiential living, as people prioritize moments that bring genuine joy and connection,” said Sandeep Malhotra, Executive Vice President, Core Payments, Asia Pacific, Mastercard. “Dining has emerged as one of the most meaningful ways cardholders express their passions, at home and especially while travelling. With the expansion of Asia Gourmet Circle, Mastercard offers a look-no-further curated selection of the world’s best restaurants, making it easier than ever to access unforgettable culinary experiences.”

From iconic Michelin-starred and Black Pearl dining rooms to Asia’s 50 Best restaurants, the Asia Gourmet Circle program includes restaurants such as Bennelong (17 Chef Hats AGFG 2025, Australia), Arbor (2 Michelin Stars, Hong Kong SAR), JAAN by Kirk Westaway (2 Michelin Stars, Singapore), HYOTEI HIBIYA (3 Michelin Stars, Japan), and Chim By Siam Wisdom (1 Michelin Star, Thailand), to name a few. This builds on a broader global portfolio of experiences already available to book on Priceless.com, spanning acclaimed restaurants across Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East.

Additionally, World Legend and World Elite Mastercard cardholders enjoy more privileges at a curated collection of restaurants across Australia, Hong Kong SAR, and Singapore. With a minimum spend, patrons can avail exclusive dining credits or complimentary glasses of wine.

In APAC, travel and food continue to shape the way people enjoy and connect with one another. In fact, 77% of APAC consumers are passionate about travel, while nearly two in three (67%) are passionate about culinary experiences^[1], both driven by shared moments, deeper connections, and the joy of discovery. Asia Gourmet Circle unites these passions, enabling cardholders to cherish world-class flavors at home and while exploring new destinations.

Asia Gourmet Circle is a dining program under The Mastercard Collection, a global suite of elevated perks designed for cardholders. From curated dining moments that turn meals into priceless memories, to entertainment access that brings cardholders closer to their favorite performers, and seamless travel privileges that make every journey as rewarding as the destination, The Mastercard Collection redefines what it means to hold a premium card — delivering experiences that go beyond the expected.

Explore the list of Asia Gourmet Circle restaurants here.

For Asia Gourmet Circle bookings, visit: asiagourmetcircle.com/.

Learn more about The Mastercard Collection benefits here: priceless.com/themastercardcollection.

^[1] Mastercard Passion Research, 2023

ENDS

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

Guy Duncan from Tide and Parvinder Bhatia from bunq bring deep expertise to accelerate Thunes’ AI-driven innovation and global financial scaling.

SINGAPORE, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Thunes, the Smart Superhighway to move money around the world, today announces two strategic appointments to its executive leadership team: Guy Duncan joins as Chief Technology and Product Officer (CTPO), and Parvinder Bhatia joins as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Guy Duncan

These high-profile appointments signal a new chapter of growth for Thunes as it continues to scale its proprietary Direct Global Network and sharpen its technological edge through innovation and robust financial strategy.

Guy Duncan brings world-class experience in digital transformation and rapid scaling to Thunes. Previously serving as CTO at fintech unicorn Tide and OVO Energy, he specialises in turning technical complexity into a competitive advantage. Guy’s extensive global experience includes spearheading BMW’s digital transformation across 64 markets and successfully scaling Tide’s platform from 50,000 to over 1 million members.

In his role as CTPO, Guy will lead Thunes’ technology and product functions, focusing on building high-velocity teams and deploying AI across its Direct Global Network to solve real-world friction in global money movement for Thunes’ Members.

Parvinder Bhatia joins from bunq, Europe’s first AI-powered bank, where he served as CFO and played a key role in strengthening the bank’s financial strategy, supporting its rapid international expansion.

With over 24 years of experience across fintech, private equity and venture-backed businesses, Parvinder brings a strong track record of scaling finance organisations, driving operational transformation and supporting high-growth companies through periods of significant expansion. At Thunes, he will lead the company’s global finance organisation and partner with the leadership team as the company continues to scale its global payments infrastructure.

Peter De Caluwe, Co-Founder and CEO of Thunes, said: “As we accelerate Thunes’ growth, I am delighted to welcome Guy and Parvinder to our leadership team. Both bring an incredible wealth of experience in scaling global platforms. Guy’s expertise in AI and high-scale engineering will be pivotal in honing our competitive edge, while Parvinder’s storied track record in financial transformation and international expansion makes him the ideal partner to underpin our commercial strategy. Together, they bring the ambition and expertise required to further solidify Thunes’ position as the world’s leading global payments infrastructure network.”

Guy Duncan, CTPO of Thunes, commented: “Thunes is at a fascinating juncture where technology and innovation acts as the ultimate strategic enabler. I am thrilled to join a team that shares my ‘Think Big’ philosophy and entrepreneurial mindset. My focus will be on ensuring our solutions solve customer friction both for now and for the future, through innovative, production-ready AI and scalable architecture.”

Parvinder Bhatia, CFO of Thunes, added: “Thunes has built a remarkable foundation for global cross-border payments and I am joining at a time of significant momentum. I look forward to working with the Board and the executive team to navigate our next phase of international growth, ensuring our financial strategy remains as innovative and robust as our technology.”

About Thunes:

Thunes is the Smart Superhighway to move money around the world. Thunes’ proprietary Direct Global Network allows Members to make payments in real-time in over 140 countries and more than 90 currencies. Thunes’ Network connects directly to over 12 billion mobile wallets, stablecoin wallets and bank accounts worldwide, as well as 15 billion cards via more than 220 different payment methods. For more information, visit: https://www.thunes.com/

Parvinder Bhatia