Norman's Hallmark: Ornament Season Begins with Hallmark's Keepsake Ornament Premiere, July 11-19
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 14:29 EDT
Event Unveils 250+ New Releases from 2026 Collection Kicking off the annual release of the much-beloved Hallmark Keepsake collection, Norman's Hallmark invites customers to discover more than 250 new Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments during Hallmark's annual Keepsake Ornament Premiere event, July 11-19. The event features the first ornament releases from the new 2026 collection, available in stores and online at NormansHallmark.com . Keepsake Ornament Club (KOC) members will receive exclusive first access beginning July 10, one day before the public event opens. "We're excited to kick off another year of Hallmark Keepsakes with Hallmark's annual Premiere event. Each year brings a brand-new collection that has something for everyone," said Howard Henschel, Norman's Hallmark president and CEO. "Keepsake Ornaments help celebrate special moments, honor important relationships and reflect personal interests, while creating timeless memories families will cherish for years to come. Making each year's collection unique is the new artistry, innovative technology and exclusive designs created by Hallmark's talented team of artists." As with every Hallmark ornament event, Hallmark offers extra bonus points and event specials including the much sought after release of limited quantity ornaments that are unique to the event and are available on a first come, first serve basis. These special ornaments drive enthusiasts to the event to collect that unique piece that is not available at any other time of the year. As a sneak peek, this year's Ornament Premiere limited quantity ornaments include: 1976 Chevrolet Chevelle Laguna S-3 - Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic muscle car, known for its bold design and racing history, this ornament is adorned with neon green paint and realistic details. A must-have for car enthusiasts, racing fans and collectors. Jyn Erso - Marking the 10th anniversary of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story , this ornament features rebel hero Jyn Erso and honors her role in the dangerous mission to steal the Death Star plans. A terrific addition for Star Wars fans and ornament collectors alike. Tilly Welcome to Elfville - Coordinating with the Welcome to Elfville series introduced in 2025, this miniature ornament features Tilly the elf test-driving a horse-themed riding toy. The charming design makes a delightful addition to any Elfville collection. Patriotic Snoopy - Helping commemorate America's 250th anniversary, this festive ornament features Snoopy atop his patriotic doghouse painted in a red, white and blue design of stars and stripes. A fun way for Peanuts fans to mark this historic national milestone. Also new for 2026 is the unveiling of the Stunning Santas Keepsake Ornament series. The first ornament in the collection arrives just in time for Ornament Premiere andfeatures an ivory porcelain Santa inspired by vintage Hallmark archive designs and finished with elegant 14K gold accents. The 2026 lineup also expands Hallmark's collection of licensed properties, with new ornaments inspired by popular entertainment brands and characters, including Toy Story 5, Ferris Bueller, PlayStation, Goosebumps, Supergirl and more. Keepsake Ornament Club Exclusive Perks and Ornament Planning Resources The 2026 annual KOC membership gives members access to exclusive ornaments, unique gifts and many other benefits for $49.99 plus tax. Membership is available online or in-store and remains active through Dec. 31, 2026. To help customers plan for the season ahead, Hallmark's free 2026 Dream Book is available to everyone (both online and in stores). Consumers can fill out and submit a personalized "Wish List" featuring the ornaments they want to purchase at each release throughout the season. The Wish List is then fulfilled and available to purchase/pick up at their local store during the release event. Customers can learn more at www.hallmark.com or inquire while visiting their local Norman's Hallmark store. All customers who submit a Keepsake Wish List by June 30 will receive a free Keepsake tote in-store when they pick up their Keepsake ornaments during Ornament Premiere (reg. $5.99; limit one per customer, while supplies last). Employee-owned Norman's Hallmark currently operates 100 store locations. With roots dating back over 85 years, Norman's Hallmark has grown from a single retail store in Trenton, N.J., to a leading force in the social expression industry. The Newtown, Pa.-based company continues to grow its brick-and-mortar footprint throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and in recent years expanded into Delaware and Maryland; it also maintains a strong ecommerce presence. Norman's offers a complete line of Hallmark products, cards for every occasion and Keepsake Ornaments, along with a diverse merchandise selection for gift giving and the home that includes fashion apparel and accessories, books, stationery, games, home décor, specialty candy and gourmet foods. The company maintains thriving supplier partnerships with household-name brands like Vera Bradley, Spartina 449, Life is Good, Scout Bags, Yankee Candle, Warmies, Willow Tree, Stonewall Kitchen and David Bradley Chocolatier among many other national and regional brands. ### About Norman's Hallmark 105 Terry Drive, Newtown, Pa., 18940 Access Norman's Hallmark media assets here . Follow Norman's Facebook and Instagram Media Contact: Maxine Aviles Caryl Communications 201-796-7788 maxine@caryl.com
Manning Family Children's makes history as Louisiana's first sickle cell gene therapy patient rings the bell, marking his functional cure and restoring his dream of becoming a commercial pilot
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 10:26 EDT
Louisiana's first sickle cell disease gene therapy patient is now set to pursue his dream of becoming a commercial pilot after receiving historic, curative gene therapy at Manning Family Children's. 23-year-old Daniel Cressy, a native of Metairie, Louisiana, rang the bell Monday, June 22, after a more than two-year journey that led him to this life-changing moment. Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic blood disorder in the world, and Louisiana has more cases of sickle cell disease per capita than any other in the U.S. A debilitating disease that predominantly affects African Americans, sickle cell disease is responsible for shortening the lives of so many, while also causing chronic pain and frequent hospitalizations. Now, with recent significant advancements that allow the altering of genetically modified stem cells, many more children and young adults can be treated (and functionally cured), before the disease begins to destroy their organs. Cressy was diagnosed with sickle cell disease as an infant. He and his family did everything right. He received the best treatments available, worked hard to stay healthy and build a future for himself. But as Cressy grew older, he began experiencing frequent episodes of severe pain. The pain sent him to emergency rooms and hospital beds when he should have been in classrooms and spending time with friends. Yet Cressy never let the disease define him. He had a dream to become a commercial airline pilot, but found out that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would not consider him because of his sickle cell disease due to medical safety requirements. Unwilling to give up on this dream, in 2023 Cressy appealed to the FAA to see if there was any way they would reconsider. "The answer came back," said Cressy. "If I could cure my sickle cell disease either through a bone marrow transplant or through gene therapy, then I could become a pilot. Gene editing had just been approved for clinical trials, so I was following the studies closely. When I heard Manning Family Children's had been granted approval to engage in the process, I began to discuss options with my doctors here." Manning Family Children's is one of a select few programs nationally to now offer both FDA-approved gene altering technologies, providing patients a chance for hope and futures restored, in collaboration with its medical school partners, LSU Health New Orleans and Tulane University School of Medicine. Dr. Ben Watkins, Director of the Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapies Program at Manning Family Children's and Section Chief of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Tulane Medicine, has helped develop this groundbreaking program. "Thanks to groundbreaking research, scientific advancements and destination healthcare available right here at home, we now have hope," said Lucio A. Fragoso, President and CEO of Manning Family Children's. "Curative gene therapy is restoring futures, and Daniel has paved the way for what is possible together with his care team at Manning Family Children's. This is a proud and transformational moment for all of us." Cressy has not had a chance to rid himself of his sickle cell disease - until now. After more than two years of preparation and various stages of the treatment journey, he is the first patient in Louisiana and the Gulf South to receive gene editing therapy utilizing Casgevy's CRISPR/Cas9 technology to modify his hematopoietic stem cells to increase the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which helps prevent the sickling of red blood cells. For Cressy, his gene editing procedure could not come soon enough. In late 2025, his cells were collected from his body, and sent to Scotland where they were genetically modified. The cells were sent back to Manning Family Children's in March 2026. Cressy was admitted to the hospital's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders where he received chemotherapy treatment to wipe out his sickled cells, and on March 18, his genetically modified cells were infused into his body. Following about a month of recovering and careful monitoring as an inpatient at Manning Family Children's, Cressy was discharged in mid-April to continue his recovery as an outpatient with careful monitoring and regular follow-up appointments. Now, three months after his infusion, his hemoglobin levels are the highest they have been in his entire life, and he is working toward achieving his first class medical, which will clear him to pursue his dream of flying. Monday, June 22, surrounded by his care team, family and friends, Cressy began a new chapter - one that he likes to call "Life 2" - and he is committed to filling it with purpose, service, and hope for others. Before he rang the bell signifying his rebirth and all that lies ahead free of the burdens of his disease, remarks were offered by Gov. Jeff Landry, Congressman Troy Cater, Mayor Helena Moreno, Tulane President Mike Fitts, LCMC Health CEO Greg Feirn, Manning Family Children's President and CEO, Lou Fragoso, and Dr. Watkins, who serves as Cressy's physician. Celebrations continued with a second-line band, and members of his care team who gathered for the historic moment. "I feel like God chose me to be the first one in the state because my story, once I do finally become a commercial pilot, is going to be inspirational for a lot of people," Cressy said. "Overcoming what seemed impossible became my greatest blessing. While many spend their lives searching for purpose, mine found me. Now, instead of looking for meaning, I can spend my life fulfilling it." Manning Family Children's is the premier center for pediatric stem cell transplant and cellular therapies in Louisiana. As the only pediatric program accredited by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapies and the only pediatric CAR-T certified program in Louisiana, the team at Manning Family Children's is dedicated to ensuring that patients from across the Gulf South have access to the most advanced and comprehensive therapies possible. Additionally, Manning Family Children's program is affiliated with transplant centers across the country through collaboration with the Children's Oncology Group, Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant Consortium, Pediatric Immunodeficiency Treatment Consortium, the Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network and the Sickle Cell Transplant Advocacy and Research Alliance. For more than 70 years, Manning Family Children's has proudly served as Louisiana's only, freestanding, comprehensive children's hospital with more than 600 pediatric-trained providers and 3,000 employees solely dedicated to the care of kids. In addition to comprehensive services offered at its main campus in New Orleans, Children's operates a robust network of more than 30 satellite locations, pediatric affiliations across Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and robust and long-community programs designed to meet the health needs of the diverse communities it serves. At the heart of its mission, Manning Family Children's is committed to delivering expert care for every child, every time - regardless of the family's ability to pay.
Ascendus Receives $115,000 from OFN's Capital Solutions Accelerator to Launch Graduation and Capital Velocity Pilot
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 09:58 EDT
Ascendus, a mission-driven nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), has been awarded a $115,000 grant from the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) Capital Solutions Accelerator program. The funding will support the launch of Ascendus's Graduation and Capital Velocity Pilot Program, a structured pathway designed to help small business owners graduate from CDFI lending to traditional bank financing, doubling capital velocity and strengthening the broader CDFI ecosystem. The grant represents a significant milestone in Ascendus's strategy to move beyond access to capital and into full Financial Ascension for the entrepreneurs it serves. By creating a formalized graduation pathway via loan refinancing, Ascendus aims to free up capital for new borrowers while positioning clients for long-term financial independence within the traditional banking system. Ascendus is also among three finalists competing for an additional $25,000 award, with a representative traveling to Austin, TX to present the program to OFN's selection committee. "When we rebranded in 2020, we embarked on a bold vision of creating financial ascension, not merely inclusion, for all. Today, with the success of our Get Ready program, our core lending work, and now this graduation-to-bank effort, we have made financial ascension a reality for many small business owners. We are creating change, together." - Paul Quintero, Chief Executive Officer, Ascendus Building on this momentum, Ascendus will participate in OFN's upcoming annual Small Business Finance Forum (SBFF) in Austin, TX, from June 10-12, 2026. During the forum, Andrea Ierace , SVP of Lending, will present the Graduation and Capital Velocity Pilot in the official OFN Pitch Competition. The presentation will serve as a key opportunity to gather critical feedback from industry evaluators and build strategic connections to support the continued development of this financial solution. The OFN Capital Solutions Accelerator grant reinforces Ascendus's commitment to building a full-circle model of small business support: from pre-loan readiness coaching to active lending to graduation into the mainstream financial system. This approach not only expands access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs but also increases the long-term sustainability and impact of mission-driven lenders like Ascendus.
Total Clean Air launches Rent a Cleanroom for rapid access to compliant cleanroom facilities
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 09:53 EDT
Total Clean Air (TCA), the Somerset-based cleanroom and contamination control specialist, has launched Rent a Cleanroom. The new proposition makes compliant cleanroom facilities more accessible to start-ups and organisations needing rapid deployment solutions. Rental solutions are available from just £595 per month, with flexible agreements from as little as three months. Developed to support businesses that need speed, flexibility and affordability, Rent a Cleanroom provides access to validated cleanroom facilities without the significant upfront investment and lengthy implementation timescales traditionally associated with cleanroom projects. The proposition has been created to help start-ups, innovators, growing manufacturers and project teams access compliant cleanroom capacity quickly and cost-effectively. Every rental is backed by Total Clean Air's accredited engineering and validation expertise and includes delivery, installation, commissioning, ISO 14644 validation, ongoing servicing and maintenance, providing customers with a fully supported solution from day one. Phillip Godden, CEO of Total Clean Air, said: "Rent a Cleanroom has been developed to make compliant cleanroom facilities more accessible. By combining flexibility, speed and affordability with the expertise of Total Clean Air, we're helping organisations access the environments they need without the significant upfront investment traditionally associated with cleanroom projects. "It's a practical solution for businesses looking to innovate, grow or respond quickly to changing operational requirements without compromising compliance or quality." Available options include inflatable cleanrooms, modular cleanroom systems and larger portable controlled environments, allowing organisations to select a solution that matches their operational requirements, project timescales and budget. Unlike traditional cleanroom projects, which can involve significant capital expenditure and complex procurement processes, Rent a Cleanroom enables organisations to access compliant, controlled environments quickly and convert infrastructure investment into a predictable operational cost. Depending on the system selected, rental cleanrooms can be operational within days or weeks. For organisations facing tight project deadlines, rental cleanrooms can provide a significantly faster route to compliance than traditional procurement and construction programmes. Airelab inflatable cleanrooms can typically be deployed within days of agreement, while larger modular solutions can be delivered, commissioned and validated within two to four weeks. The launch comes as organisations across life sciences, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, research and technology sectors are seeking greater flexibility in accessing specialist environments while maintaining compliance and operational performance. Demand for modular cleanroom solutions continues to rise as organisations seek faster and more flexible routes to compliance. Market analysts forecast the global cleanroom technology market to reach approximately USD 10.8 billion by 2030, driven by increasing demand across pharmaceuticals, life sciences, healthcare and advanced manufacturing sectors.1 One customer in the advanced manufacturing sector recently used Rent a Cleanroom to maintain production during planned maintenance work, avoiding disruption while ensuring continued access to a compliant cleanroom environment. Commenting on the experience, the customer said: "We needed a temporary cleanroom whilst maintenance work was being carried out in our factory, and Total Clean Air's Rent a Cleanroom service was exactly what we needed. "The unit was delivered and installed quickly, allowing us to keep production running with minimal disruption. The flexibility of the rental solution and the support from the TCA team throughout the project were excellent. "A great service from start to finish - professional, responsive and easy to work with. We'd happily recommend Total Clean Air to others looking for a temporary cleanroom solution." The rental model also offers customers flexibility throughout the rental period, enabling the cleanroom options to be upgraded, expanded or adapted as operational requirements evolve. Customers can choose to extend their rental agreement, upgrade to a different cleanroom system, return the unit at the end of the term, or purchase the unit outright through a hire purchase arrangement. Flexible rental agreements are available from as little as three months, enabling organisations to access compliant cleanroom facilities without significant upfront capital investment or long-term infrastructure commitments. The launch forms part of Total Clean Air's wider growth strategy and reflects the company's commitment to helping organisations solve complex challenges through smarter, quicker and safer controlled environment solutions. Further information about the rental solutions available, including Airelab, Flexilab, Modulab and Series 1 systems, can be found at www.rentacleanroom.com .
The Logistics Consequences of British Weather Extremes
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 08:59 EDT
British weather has a long-standing reputation around the world for being sort of grey, rather rainy, with warm summers but no great extremes. And perhaps it was so, once upon a time - but no longer. From heatwaves and flash flooding to prolonged periods of heavy rain, British weather is becoming increasingly unpredictable. While much of the public discussion focuses on transport disruption and infrastructure, the impact extends to many more industries - and its effects on warehouse operations is often overlooked. Extreme weather conditions are creating growing challenges for warehouses, distribution centres and logistics operators across the UK. Changes in temperature and rainfall can affect everything from loading areas and external yards to flooring conditions and equipment performance. While warehouses are often viewed as sheltered environments, many of the most critical handling activities take place at the interface between indoor and outdoor operations. Loading bays, delivery yards and external storage areas are particularly exposed to changing weather patterns. Periods of heavy rainfall can create standing water, slippery surfaces and increased contamination from mud, grit and debris being brought indoors. These conditions can affect traction, increase wear on wheels and components, and make pallet movement more difficult. At the opposite end of the spectrum, prolonged hot weather presents its own operational challenges. Higher temperatures can contribute to operator fatigue, affect battery performance on electric equipment and alter the handling characteristics of materials used in flooring and warehouse infrastructure. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said warehouses are increasingly having to plan for a wider range of weather-related variables than they did in the past. "Extreme weather used to be viewed as something occasional that disrupted operations for a day or two," he said. "What we're seeing now is a greater need for businesses to build resilience into everyday warehouse operations. Conditions in loading areas and external yards can change very quickly, and that has a direct impact on safety, efficiency and equipment performance." He added that weather-related pressures often reveal weaknesses that remain hidden during more favourable conditions. "A pallet truck , stacker truck or lift table that performs perfectly well in dry conditions may behave very differently when surfaces are wet or contaminated," he said. "Likewise, prolonged periods of heat can place additional strain on equipment and operators. Businesses that understand those risks and take preventive measures are more likely to maintain consistent performance when extreme weather strikes." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
Summerfield and Devon Contractors celebrate topping out milestone at Westpark 26, Wellington in Somerset
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 08:18 EDT
South West developers Summerfield and Devon Contractors have marked the completion of the outer frame and roof of eight industrial units at Westpark 26 Business Park in Wellington, Somerset with a traditional topping out ceremony. The units form half of the planned development of 16 high quality, energy efficient and flexible spaces on the park which is home to a range of distribution, warehousing and manufacturing businesses. Construction of the remaining eight units is progressing well with the structural framework nearing completion. Designed with sustainability in mind each unit will feature 15 solar panels, glazed entrance canopies, EV charging points and covered cycle storage. Flexible internal layouts range from 163 to 227 sq. m. with options for mezzanine floors and office space. The units will benefit from a 6.5 metre eave height and wide insulated electric loading doors. Construction has required 188 tonnes of steel, 5,471 sq. m of cladding and 352 gabion baskets containing 449 sq. m of stone for retaining walls. Landscaping will incorporate mature hedges and tree lines, alongside bird, bat and dormouse boxes. External lighting has been carefully designed to have minimal environmental impact. Driving in the last screw on the roof to mark the structural completion of the building's frame, Summerfield Group MD James Holyday said: "We are delighted with the progress being made. These units will provide an excellent addition to this popular business park." Managing director of Devon Contractors who are celebrating their 80 th year in construction, Nigel Whelan, said: "It was a pleasure to join Summerfield Developments to celebrate this important milestone at Plot 19. "Our two businesses share a long and successful history in the South West and projects like this demonstrate the value of strong partnerships built on trust, quality and a shared commitment to supporting local economic growth. We look forward to completing the development and seeing these new units provide opportunities for businesses in Wellington for years to come." Anyone interested in the development should contact Alder King, JLL or visit https://www.summerfield.co.uk/commercial-type/current-developments/
Brexit critics accused us of fraud - but we built a £12 Billion export powerhouse by mastering post-Brexit trade, says logistics CEO
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 05:30 EDT
Andrew Baxter , Chief Executive of Europa Worldwide Group , today revealed how his company transformed a major Brexit challenge into a significant competitive advantage, despite fierce criticism and accusations of fraud from rivals. In the years following the EU referendum, while many competitors complained about the complexities of leaving the customs union, Europa took a different approach. The business developed a groundbreaking solution to streamline the movement of goods between the UK and Europe, enabling thousands of UK exporters to maintain seamless trade. "Life outside the customs union meant every shipment required export and import declarations, along with the need to onboard importers and charge them for duties, VAT and clearance fees," said Baxter. "This had the potential to create major disruption. We tackled the problem head on and launched a solution that operated successfully for over a year before any competitor could replicate it." The result speaks for itself. Europa is now the clear market leader, moving more than double the volume of its nearest competitor and facilitating over £12 billion in UK exports via its innovative route. The innovation that changed the game Traditional shipping terms were typically Delivered Duty Uncleared (DDU), leaving the importer responsible for all clearance costs, duties and VAT. Europa instead created a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) product - placing full customs responsibility on the UK exporter. Many competitors dismissed the DDP model because UK exporters could not reclaim EU VAT, viewing it as commercially unviable. Europa saw a different path. By leveraging an existing EU customs regulation, the company clears all continental European goods through France (with French-destined goods cleared in Belgium). This allows zero-rating of VAT and enables a seamless DDP offering that protects customers from friction and delays. "We developed something that many said was impossible," Baxter added. "At first, competitors didn't just doubt us - they accused us of non-compliance and even fraud. Some actively told our customers we would be shut down. The more they attacked us, the more determined we became - and the more market share we won." Baxter noted that it took competitors around three years to develop their own versions, which he says still lag behind Europa's solution. Today, the majority of UK exports to Europe move on a DDP basis, either through Europa or its competitors. Without this mechanism, Baxter believes UK-Europe trade would have suffered far greater damage. A committed Brexiteer driven by principle A vocal supporter of Brexit, Baxter hosted the launch event for the Leave campaign alongside Boris Johnson. He is clear that his support was based on principle, not prior knowledge of any commercial workaround. "I supported Brexit because I believed the UK should be an independent, self-governing nation," he said. "I knew it would complicate my own business - and I had no special customs insight at the time. But that personal commitment to making Brexit work for our customers drove us to find a genuine solution rather than just complain about the problem." Powered by Better As Europa enters its seventh decade in business, the company continues to invest in smarter solutions, customs expertise and international capability to support customers trading across more than 160 countries worldwide. From its origins as a specialist European operator to its position today as a global logistics provider, Europa remains focused on helping businesses navigate complexity and release opportunity wherever it exists. Ten years after the Brexit referendum, the company's conclusion is clear: businesses that embrace change, invest in innovation and maintain a global outlook will be best placed to succeed in the years ahead.
Is English Declining - or is Gen Z Simply Changing How we Communicate?
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 05:09 EDT
From "peng" and "allow it" to "it's giving" and "no cap," Britain's evolving slang has sparked growing debates about whether English is declining. According to new research by The TEFL Academy , however, the issue is not that English is deteriorating, but that communication itself is becoming more context-driven, culturally layered and digitally shaped than ever before. The new report, It's Giving... Fluent , explores how Gen Z, TikTok, streaming culture and multicultural Britain are rapidly transforming modern British English. Fluency today depends as much on tone, timing, cultural awareness and digital context as it does on grammar itself. At the centre of the research is a broader argument: British English has never been fixed. From Shakespeare and Cockney rhyming slang to grime culture, text-speak and internet memes, every generation has reshaped the language to reflect how people live, communicate and connect. What makes this moment different is not the existence of slang or language evolution, but the unprecedented speed at which communication now changes. For centuries, people have worried English was being ruined, in the 1700s, it was shortened words. In the 1800s, Cockney slang. In the early 2000s, text-speak. Today, it's 'rizz' and TikTok English. British English has always survived because it adapts. Social media platforms have fundamentally transformed how language spreads across Britain. Recent UK data shows: 43% of UK consumers now use social media as a daily search tool 34% use platforms such as TikTok to find information 41% of Gen Z say social media is their primary search platform 66% of young people rely on social media for information research, compared to 35% using traditional search engines This shift has accelerated how quickly slang, tone and expression spread through British culture, with phrases now moving from niche online communities into mainstream conversation within days rather than years. English is no longer learned exclusively through textbooks, classrooms and dictionaries. Instead, it is increasingly absorbed through feeds, captions, streaming platforms, memes, creators and online communities. Digital culture is only part of the story. Britain itself is becoming increasingly multilingual, and modern British English is evolving alongside it. According to Census 2021 data: The proportion of people in England and Wales who speak English as their main language declined from 92.3% in 2011 to 91.1% in 2021 More than 5.5 million people now speak another primary language Nearly 1 in 5 UK school pupils has a first language other than English London is now home to more than 300 spoken languages This diversity is reshaping not only vocabulary, but also rhythm, pronunciation, tone and communication norms across modern Britain. A major focus of the findings is the rise of Multicultural London English (MLE), described as "the new sound of modern Britain. Influenced by Caribbean, African, South Asian and London youth cultures, MLE has reshaped how younger generations communicate across cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds. Expressions including: "Mandem" "Fam" "Wagwan" "Peng" "Bare" "Bruv" have spread nationally through grime, drill music, TikTok, streaming culture and online creators. These are not simply "internet words," but expressions rooted in multicultural Britain and urban youth identity. At the centre of the study is a newly developed Gen Z Dictionary, documenting more than 200 widely used British expressions shaped by internet culture, MLE and digital communication. Examples include: "Peng" - attractive or high quality "Bare" - a lot of / very "Allow it" - stop / leave it "Dead" - disappointing, boring or contextually hilarious "Gassed" - genuinely excited "Long" - tedious or too much effort Phrases evolved across generations, comparing traditional British idioms with their modern digital equivalents: "Spill the beans" → "Spill the tea" "No lie" → "No cap" "Awkward" → "Cringe" "Charming" → "Rizz" "Best thing since sliced bread" → "Elite" These shifts reflect broader cultural changes shaped by reaction culture, streaming platforms, memes, creator economies and internet-native communication. Data referenced in the report from Trinity College London on the influence of digital learning environments on English language learners show: 71% of Gen Z English learners ask teachers to explain slang from TikTok and Instagram 80% acquire a significant amount of English through social media 74% learn English through streaming television 67% of teachers now incorporate multicultural English slang into lessons 45% of students prefer American accents over British accents These trends raise broader questions around identity, cultural influence and the future of British English itself. Rhyan O'Sullivan, Managing Director at The TEFL Academy , said: "English has always evolved alongside culture, but what we're seeing now is a shift in how quickly and visibly that change happens. Gen Z are not weakening the language, they are accelerating linguistic change in ways previous generations experienced over decades. The ability to move between informal and formal English depending on context is becoming one of the most important communication skills in modern Britain." Fluency today is becoming less about speaking "perfect English" and more about understanding context, tone and audience. The same phrase can carry entirely different meanings depending on whether it appears in a TikTok caption, group chat, Slack message, classroom discussion or workplace email. As a result, younger generations are increasingly developing code-switching skills that allow them to move between digital, cultural and professional forms of communication depending on context. Dimitris Kottis, UK TEFL Instructor at The TEFL Academy , said: "We used to teach English as a fixed thing. Now I teach it like a moving target. By the time a textbook prints, the slang inside it is already two trends old." British English is no longer evolving slowly through classrooms and dictionaries alone. Instead, it is being reshaped in real time through algorithms, streaming culture, migration, memes, multicultural Britain and Gen Z communication habits. British English is not disappearing. It is evolving faster than many people can keep up with. For the full report, visit: It's Giving... Fluent
Southgate Global Launches New Innovation Lab to Accelerate Operational Improvement Across Logistics and Fulfilment
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 03:22 EDT
Southgate Global , a leader in equipment and servicing solutions for packing and fulfilment operations, has officially opened its first UK-based Innovation Lab - a dedicated facility designed to help logistics, fulfilment and manufacturing businesses solve operational challenges, test new ideas and accelerate the development of practical workplace solutions. The new site is Southgate's first in-house small-batch and prototype manufacturing capability and marks more than a £250,000 investment in product development, prototyping and operational innovation. Its opening reflects Southgate's continued investment in helping customers overcome the increasingly complex challenges facing modern operations. With rising labour costs, increasing customer expectations and growing pressure to improve efficiency, many businesses are looking for smarter ways to optimise workflows, remove operational bottlenecks and support their sustainability and ESG objectives, with the right equipment, consumables and machinery to meet specific demands Located in Hixon, Staffordshire, close to the UK's logistics heartland, the Innovation Lab brings together product development, fabrication and testing capabilities under one roof. It also strengthens Southgate's ability to design, develop and evolve equipment and solutions that improve productivity, reduce operational costs and support safer, more sustainable ways of working. The Innovation Lab provides a dedicated environment where ideas can move quickly from concept to reality. Customers can work alongside Southgate's engineering and operational specialists to explore challenges, evaluate potential solutions and develop equipment tailored to their specific requirements. Gavin Rawson, Head of Logistics at Southgate, said: "The Innovation Lab gives us the space, tools and expertise to work even more closely with our customers to solve real operational challenges. "Whether that's improving productivity, enhancing ergonomics, reducing waste or supporting sustainability goals, the facility allows us to rapidly develop, test and refine solutions before they're implemented in live operations. "Our customers don't just need products; they need practical solutions that deliver measurable results. The Innovation Lab strengthens our ability to bring those solutions to life more quickly." The facility supports everything from early-stage concepts and proof-of-concept designs through to prototype development, small-batch manufacturing and operational testing. By bringing these capabilities in-house, Southgate can shorten development times, accelerate innovation and provide customers with greater visibility throughout the design process. The Innovation Lab also serves as a centre for collaboration, enabling Southgate's teams, customers and industry partners to share ideas, evaluate emerging technologies and explore new approaches to operational improvement. As the facility continues to evolve, Southgate plans to expand its customer engagement activities, creating opportunities for demonstrations, workshops and collaborative innovation projects focused on the future of logistics and fulfilment. Southgate Global is a leading specialist in packaging equipment, consumables, servicing and operational solutions for logistics and fulfilment operations. Combining engineering expertise, sector knowledge and a consultative approach, Southgate partners with organisations to improve productivity, reduce costs and optimise operational performance across their logistics and fulfilment operations.
Wilson & Company and The CARE Project Team Up to Support Local Breast Cancer Patients
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 20:03 EDT
This partnership supports fundraising efforts and inspires local San Bernardino businesses to give back to their communities. Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects has launched a corporate fundraising campaign in partnership with The CARE Project, Inc., kicking off the initiative with an initial $2,000 corporate donation. The campaign is open to Wilson & Company employees to drive additional community support. This collaborative effort is part of the firm's annual "Higher Giving" initiative, which pairs regional offices with local nonprofits that reflect the passions of their workforce.
South Africa Isn't Just Speaking English - It's Redefining the Language
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 16:00 EDT
New research reveals the state of South Africa's local languages in a globalised world When a Gen Z South African says, "Yoh, that vibe was actually fire hey, kodwa the people were too much," they are doing far more than mixing slang and languages. According to new research by The TEFL Academy , they are demonstrating one of the most sophisticated forms of multilingual communication in the world, a uniquely South African way of speaking shaped by history, migration, township culture, music, digital life and constant language exchange. The new report, " How South Africa Rewrote Languages ", explores how South Africa's multilingual identity, urban culture and digital generation are collectively reshaping modern English in South Africa. The findings position South African English not as a declining version of the language, but as one of the most dynamic and culturally adaptive forms of English emerging globally. At the centre of the research is a striking contradiction: English dominates South African business, education, media, meetings, hashtags and digital culture, yet only 8.7% of South Africans speak it as a home language. According to Census 2022 data from Statistics South Africa: isiZulu remains the country's most spoken home language at 24.4% isiXhosa follows at 16.3% Afrikaans accounts for 10.6% Sepedi accounts for 10% English ranks only fifth at 8.7% South Africa officially recognises 12 official languages following the inclusion of South African Sign Language in 2023 This multilingual reality has fundamentally shaped the trajectory of English in South Africa. While English entered through colonialism, trade, mining economies and education systems, it evolved into a bridge language connecting cultures, communities and language groups. When Zulu speakers met Xhosa speakers in mine shafts, when Sotho speakers met Afrikaans speakers in classrooms, English became the neutral meeting point, not a mother tongue, but a connector. Over time, that bridge function transformed English itself. South African English absorbed vocabulary, rhythm, pronunciation and expression from indigenous languages, township vernacular, Afrikaans, migration routes and urban youth culture, creating a distinctly local version of English shaped by multilingual exchange. Linguistic patterns show that many South African languages already share deep historical links. isiZulu, isiXhosa, siSwati and isiNdebele belong to the Nguni language family, while Sesotho, Setswana and Sepedi share Sotho-Tswana origins. Generations of migration, labour movement, urbanisation and schooling created continuous language interaction, with English entering an already multilingual ecosystem and evolving alongside it. Recent multilingualism and education research further supports the growing role of blended language use across South African society. Studies from Statistics South Afric a, the University of the Western Cape and the Department of Basic Education show that multilingual communication, code-switching and language mixing are increasingly common in homes, classrooms, workplaces and online spaces. Rather than signalling a decline in English, the findings point to a generation reshaping language around identity, humour, belonging and digital culture in one of the world's most linguistically diverse environments. Instead of "broken English," this reflects linguistic versatility, cultural intelligence and adaptive communication. A sentence such as: "Yoh, that meeting was hectic kodwa we'll fix it just now, no stress." Demonstrates how English, isiZulu and local expressions coexist fluidly within everyday speech. South Africans also shift naturally between communication registers depending on context, moving from township slang and multilingual expression to formal, structured English in professional environments. This ability to transition across language styles has become a defining communication strength. Rhyan O'Sullivan, Managing Director at The TEFL Academy , said: "South Africans don't simply speak English, they reshape it in real time. What makes South African communication so remarkable is the ability to move fluidly between languages, tones and cultural references depending on context. In many ways, South Africans have been practising the kind of code-switching the world is only now starting to recognise as a valuable communication skill." This evolution is also shaped by key historical turning points, including the Bantu Education Act of 1953, the Soweto Uprising of 1976 and the post-1994 recognition of official languages. During apartheid, language became closely tied to identity, access and resistance. Afrikaans became associated with state control, while English increasingly functioned as a language of mobility, education and opportunity. At the same time, English became deeply localised through township culture, taxi ranks, labour migration, playgrounds, music scenes and urban youth communities, long before digital platforms accelerated these shifts. The most generative writers of South African English never sat in a textbook committee. They were on taxi ranks in Soweto, in studios in Soshanguve, in playgrounds in Khayelitsha. At the centre of contemporary communication patterns is a Mzansi Gen Z Dictionary documenting more than 200 expressions shaping modern usage, including: "Yoh" An expression of shock, surprise, excitement, or disbelief - "Yoh, that's expensive!" = wow, that's really expensive "Sharp sharp" - A casual greeting or way of saying everything is good - "Sharp sharp, my guy" = hey, all good? "Ayoba" - Something exciting, cool, impressive, or enjoyable - "That party was ayoba" = that party was amazing "Tsaa" - An expression used to dismiss, reject, or strongly disagree with something - "Tsaa, that's not true" = no way, that's nonsense "Howzit" - An informal greeting meaning how are you? or what's up? - "Howzit, bro?" = hey, how are you? "Eish" - An expression of frustration, shock, concern, or disbelief - "Eish, that sounds stressful" = wow, that's rough "Lekker" - Something enjoyable, excellent, satisfying, or pleasant - "The food was lekker" = the food was really good "Shem" - Used to express sympathy, affection, or pity - "Shem, that's so sad" = aw, that's unfortunate "Aweh" - An informal greeting, agreement, or way of saying goodbye - "Aweh, see you later" = alright, goodbye "Skebenga" - Someone seen as flashy, stylish, confident, or street-smart - "He thinks he's a skebenga" = he thinks he's cool or smooth "Jol" - A party, celebration, or having a good time socially - "We're going to jol tonight" = we're going out to party tonight "Mzansi" - A colloquial name for South Africa - "Mzansi has amazing music" = South Africa has amazing music "Kasi" - Township or township culture/community - "He grew up in the kasi" = he grew up in the township " Now now" - Soon, but not necessarily immediately - "I'll do it now now" = I'll do it shortly "Just now" - Later on; after some time, often not immediately - "I'm coming just now" = I'll come later Township slang systems such as Tsotsitaal, alongside Kwaito and Amapiano culture, have accelerated hybrid communication styles across generations. Today, digital platforms are globalising these expressions at unprecedented speed. TikTok and Spotify data show: #Amapiano content surpassed 11.4 billion TikTok views in 2025 Amapiano now charts in more than 70 countries globally South African expressions such as "Yebo," "Sharp," "Howzit" and "Eish" increasingly appear in international digital spaces through music, memes and creator culture Gen Z did not invent code-switching in South Africa. Instead, they inherited one of the world's most multilingual communication cultures and accelerated it digitally through TikTok, WhatsApp, gaming, memes and music. René Janse van Rensburg, a South African TEFL instructor and TTA alumni , says the strength of South African communication lies in its adaptability: "South Africans naturally move between different ways of speaking depending on the environment they're in. The best way I can describe it is like pairing a formal dinner jacket with jeans, you understand both worlds and know when each works. That's what modern fluency looks like today. It's not about choosing between formal or informal English, it's about understanding context, culture and communication." She adds that many South Africans already possess communication skills that are increasingly valuable globally: "We often underestimate how advanced code-switching actually is. Moving between English, Afrikaans, isiZulu or township slang in a single conversation requires cultural awareness, emotional intelligence and adaptability. Those are skills many international students still struggle to develop." The findings point to a broader shift in how English is evolving globally. Rather than replacing indigenous languages, South Africa's linguistic environment is actively reshaping English into a more layered, hybrid and expressive form. South Africa's linguistic future is defined not by one dominant language replacing another, but by continuous interaction between languages, generations and communities. English arrived through history, but it has been reshaped into something distinctly South African. For the full report, visit: How South Africa Rewrote Languages
ScribeEMR and SlicedHealth Announce Strategic Partnership for Enhanced RCM, Fewer Denials and AI Documentation
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 14:08 EDT
ScribeEMR and SlicedHealth, have announced a strategic partnership to offer complementary AI and RCM solutions to help hospitals, health systems, and community health providers to bolster their revenue cycle management capabilities, reduce denials and leverage AI documentation. ScribeEMR provides AI-powered medical charting, real-time remote physician scribing, revenue cycle management, medical coding, and virtual medical office services (VMOS) to healthcare organizations nationwide. Its ScribeRyte AI platform delivers fast, highly accurate, HIPAA-compliant clinical documentation and supports workflows across leading EMRs. With SlicedHealth's advanced contract modeling and real-time revenue intelligence, the partnership delivers a more unified, data-driven approach to revenue integrity and payer contract intelligence. "At SlicedHealth, we've always focused on making sure providers get paid what they've earned - and that starts with clean, accurate documentation," said Reed Liggin, CEO and Co-Founder of SlicedHealth. "ScribeEMR brings that discipline to the front end of the revenue cycle, and when you pair that with our contract intelligence and analytics, you close the loop in a way that's hard to replicate. Providers walk away with better data, fewer denials, and a clearer picture of where their revenue stands." We're excited to partner with SlicedHealth, a leader in revenue cycle and contract performance, to help healthcare organizations improve documentation, strengthen back-office workflows, and capture more revenue downstream," said Terry Ciesla, Senior Vice President at ScribeEMR. "SlicedHealth clients can now access ScribeEMR's virtual medical office services, AI documentation solutions, specialty virtual scribes, and coding services, all complementary to SlicedHealth's RCM solutions." ScribeEMR was ranked "Best in KLAS for Virtual Scribing Services" for the third consecutive year in the 2026 Best in KLAS: Software & Services Report. The recognition reflects ScribeEMR's continued leadership in virtual scribing services and its broader commitment to healthcare documentation, AI-enabled workflow support, and medical office services. About SlicedHealth SlicedHealth brings clarity and control to the revenue cycle for health systems, community hospitals, and specialty practices. Grounded in hands-on support and built on a rules-based foundation, our platform equips hospital CEOs and CFOs with the tools they need to optimize contract performance, streamline operations without additional staff, and maximize revenue recovery. Our next-generation contract management platform delivers real-time visibility into hospital payer contracts and revenue cycle performance. Driven by SlicedIQ, our AI-powered engine that provides detailed, easy-to-use insights for contract modeling and variance analysis, the SlicedHealth platform automates better decisions across the entire revenue cycle. From claim estimation and business intelligence to a robust price transparency module built for compliance, SlicedHealth helps all hospital leaders recover revenue lost to denials and underpayments. Learn more at https://slicedhealth.com/ . About ScribeEMR ScribeEMR provides AI-powered medical charting, real-time remote physician scribing, revenue cycle management, medical coding, and virtual medical office services (VMOS) to healthcare organizations nationwide. Its ScribeRyte AI platform delivers fast, highly accurate, HIPAA-compliant clinical documentation and supports workflows across leading EMRs, including eClinicalWorks, Epic, Athenahealth, NextGen, Greenway, and others. ScribeEMR was ranked Best in KLAS for Virtual Scribing Services in the 2024, 2025 and 2026, Best in KLAS: Software & Services Reports and was rated highly in a KLAS First Look report for its ScribeRyte AI platform. For more information, visit www.scribeemr.com and follow ScribeEMR on LinkedIn. Press Contacts: Andrew Lavin A. Lavin Communications 516-944-4486 andrewlavin@alavin.com Jason Whiteaker Regional Vice President, Health Systems SlicedHealth jason.whiteaker@slicedhealth.com
Watch Hill Proper Announces Fourth Annual American Whiskey Festival August 15 Event Returns to Norton Commons with Expanded VIP Experiences, Private Tastings, and Live Music Tickets on Sale Now
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 14:04 EDT
LOUISVILLE, KY (June 22, 2026) - Watch Hill Proper will host the Fourth Annual American Whiskey Festival on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 5 to 10 p.m. at North Village Square in Norton Commons. The free, family-friendly event will feature live music, whiskey and wine tastings, local food vendors, artisan merchants, and enhanced VIP experiences. Tickets are on sale now. Presented by Thomas Law Offices, the festival will welcome more than 40 distilleries and wineries offering tastings throughout the evening. Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy the Whiskey & Wine Garden, sponsored by Duckhorn Vineyards, featuring curated whiskey and wine experiences. Live entertainment will take place on the Doo Wop Stage, sponsored by Doo Wop Shop, with performances by Soul Circus, Laurie Jane & The 45s, and Kimmet & Friends. Guests seeking an elevated experience may purchase upgraded tasting packages, including access to the Whiskey & Wine Garden or the all-inclusive VIP Experience, which offers premium pours, specialty cocktails, chef-driven cuisine, and exclusive lounge access inside Watch Hill Proper. Experience Options Whiskey & Wine Garden - $60 Unlimited pours from more than 40 American whiskey brands and wines from Duckhorn Vineyards. All-Inclusive VIP Experience - $300 Includes Whiskey & Wine Garden access, exclusive pours, specialty cocktails, food by Chef Michael Crouch, and private lounge access inside Watch Hill Proper. New for 2026 Festival organizers are introducing four distiller-led private tastings, providing guests with an intimate opportunity to sample rare selections and hear directly from industry experts. Private Tastings - $50 per person. Tickets are sold separately and are not included with Whiskey & Wine Garden or VIP admission. Since its launch in Norton Commons, the American Whiskey Festival has become one of Louisville's premier summer events, drawing thousands of attendees each year to celebrate American whiskey, wine, food, music, and community. Tickets are available now at: https://www.watchhillproper.com/awf2026 Media Contact Erin Dullaghan Jones Dullaghan INK erin@dullaghanink.com 502.889.9245 About Watch Hill Proper Bourbon Bar & Kitchen Watch Hill Proper is home to the world's most extensive menu of American whiskey and the largest bourbon collection in the country. Located in Norton Commons, just northeast of downtown Louisville, Watch Hill Proper is a dining destination dedicated to celebrating American whiskey, particularly Kentucky bourbon. The restaurant hosts public and private events, including bourbon and wine tastings, meet-and-greets with master distillers, and chef-driven themed dinners.
Albright College launches Prior Learning Credit Program, giving working adults a faster path to a degree
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 07:28 EDT
Contact: Office of Marketing and Communications Albright College Email: media@albright.edu Phone: (610) 790-3378 Albright College launches Prior Learning Credit Program, giving working adults a faster path to a degree READING, Pa. - June 9, 2026 - Albright College is pleased to announce the launch of a prior learning credit program for School of Professional Studies (SPS) students, allowing working adults to earn academic credit for professional experience and complete degrees faster and more affordably beginning in fall 2026. For the millions of adults who started college but never finished, the cost of leaving without a degree is measurable and growing. Research from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that households headed by a bachelor's degree holder now earn more than double the household income of those with only a high school diploma. Albright's School of Professional Studies is designed for working adults who need flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. The prior learning credit program expands an academic model that seeks to meet students where they are through accelerated formats, online coursework, and personalized advising. Through this new prior learning credit option, Albright SPS students can submit relevant professional experience, industry training, certifications, or demonstrated knowledge for academic credit. Prior learning credit is distinct from transfer credit earned at another college or university and will be awarded through a formal evaluation process that assesses understanding and skills gained through practical experience. This new option enables undergraduate students to fulfill up to 75% of their bachelor's degree requirements through a combination of transfer credit and prior learning credit. Graduate students may apply up to 25% toward a master's degree. Each prior learning assessment course costs $100. Students may begin the process upon enrollment to accelerate degree completion. "Working adults bring real knowledge, real skills, and real stakes to their education," President Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D., said. "This program honors that. It recognizes what our students already know, accelerates their path to completion, and positions them for the career growth that a degree from Albright makes possible. We are proud to open this door wider, because the return on finishing is not just financial, it is transformational." Prospective students interested in the prior learning credit program can learn more and apply at albright.edu/sps or contact the School of Professional Studies directly. Students admitted to Albright SPS may begin their prior learning assessment immediately, working with their advisor to identify eligible experience and chart the fastest path to their degree.
SGS Marks Third Consecutive PVoC Program Renewal in Gabon
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 04:18 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, reports that it has been awarded a third consecutive mandate by the Gabonese government to deliver pre-export verification of conformity (PVoC) services. This latest renewal marks over ten years of collaboration with Gabonese authorities and reinforces SGS's long-term commitment to supporting safe trade and product compliance in the country. Since the implementation of the PVoC program, SGS has supported the Agence Gabonaise de Normalisation (AGANOR) in advancing consumer protection, trade security and the quality and compliance of imported products. The renewal reflects the confidence of the Gabonese authorities in SGS's technical expertise, consistent service delivery and commitment to transparency, all built on a foundation of mutual trust. The continuation of the program also highlights its positive contribution to the national economy and the shared objective of strengthening compliance frameworks in Gabon. SGS continues to support these efforts through innovative solutions, including digital inspection processes and enhanced, service-oriented support to stakeholders. Further details of SGS's PCA services for Gabon are available in the Q2 PCA newsletter .
SGS PVoC Services in the Central African Republic Renewed for Five Years
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 04:13 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to announce the five-year renewal of its mandate from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the Central African Republic (CAR) to deliver pre-export verification of conformity (PVoC) services. Effective March 2026, this renewal ensures the continuity of SGS's PVoC services in the CAR and reflects the government's continued commitment to strengthening consumer protection, compliance with national and international standards, product quality and the efficient flow of trade. Strengthened PVoC Certificates of conformity (CoC), based on a bill of lading, air waybill (AWB) or road transport document, are now mandatory for all products classified under Chapters 02 to 99 of the Harmonized System. To enhance control and traceability, certification data is now electronically integrated into the customs management system, enabling automated verification processes. Shipments without a valid CoC will be blocked from customs clearance. Non-compliant products or those deemed unfit for consumption may be subject to re-export or destruction by the competent authorities at the importer's expense. Key takeaways for stakeholders The renewal signifies that the PVoC program and the accompanying CoC remain mandatory for all regulated products exported to the CAR and will continue to be delivered through SGS's extensive global network. Three certification routes are available, with fees exclusive of laboratory testing, manufacturer license, registration fees, bulk shipment sampling and reinspection. Through close collaboration with government authorities and economic operators, SGS continues to support trade facilitation in the CAR by leveraging experienced local teams, recognized technical expertise and advanced digital solutions tailored to evolving global trade requirements. Further details of SGS's PCA services for CAR are available in the Q2 PCA newsletter .
Bill C‑16 Receives Royal Assent
Fri, Jun 19, 2026 09:21 EDT
Humane Canada welcomes Bill C ‑ 16 becoming law and the stronger protections it brings for animals and families. OTTAWA, ON, June 19, 2026 - Humane Canada welcomes Royal Assent for Bill C‑16, the Protecting Victims Act, now law in Canada. The legislation strengthens protections for animals and families affected by violence and recognizes the link between animal abuse and interpersonal violence. Bill C-16 criminalizes the distribution of animal sexual abuse images, material that has been used to groom, manipulate, and exploit vulnerable individuals, including children and youth. It also expands protections for people whose animals are harmed or threatened as a form of coercive control, a tactic widely used in intimate partner violence and criminal harassment. To this end, the bill has adopted Humane Canada's proposed language to ensure animals are recognized as both victims and tools of coercive control. As founder of the Canadian Violence Link Coalition, Humane Canada has long worked to highlight the connection between animal abuse and family violence. Years of advocacy culminated in this pivotal moment, with the government and soon the legal framework recognizing the connection between violence against animals and gender-based, family, and intimate-partner violence. Bill C‑16 now brings that connection into federal criminal law. Humane Canada stresses that while historic progress has been made, the organization remains firmly committed to continue working alongside policymakers and partners to ensure these critical connections are not only understood but meaningfully addressed.
SGS Supports Essential BIS Compliance for Indian Markets
Fri, Jun 19, 2026 04:43 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, reports on comprehensive support services available for businesses seeking to ensure compliance with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for products sold on the country's market. In a feature article, SGS highlights the expansion of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for products intended for the Indian market, and the intensification of enforcement. A structured and efficient certification pathway is increasingly necessary to avoid penalties and delays, and SGS's BIS Application Management Services enable businesses to prepare confidently for BIS compliance. Essential BIS certification A vital pillar for public health, national security and environmental protection, BIS certification is also a key gateway to successful market access, ensuring safe and legal products and enhancing brand credibility while mitigating trade risks. Identifying the correct route to certification is the first step for manufacturers and importers and SGS's structured, end-to-end approach helps protect timelines, minimize rework and ease market access. Aligning processes, records, markings and controls with on-site inspections drives BIS audit readiness, and the article includes details of a BIS Scheme Checklist and sample document pack. Local strategic services SGS operates a robust, integrated network of laboratories across India for testing against the latest Indian standards. Facilities are strategically located in key industrial areas: Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and East Kolkata, helping to minimize sample transit time and streamline testing workflows. A comprehensive range of services and automated systems facilitates market entry and helps businesses trade successfully and in full compliance, with rapid and customizable turnaround times. Further details of SGS's product conformity assessment (PCA) solutions for BIS are available in the Q2 PCA newsletter .
Streamline Trade with SGS Advanced Cargo Information Compliance Services for Africa
Fri, Jun 19, 2026 04:33 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, reports on Advance Cargo Information (ACI) registration services for African markets, highlighting how structured compliance support helps exporters avoid delays, penalties and clearance uncertainty. Exporters and freight forwarders operating in many African countries must comply with ACI requirements, which enable authorities to receive shipment information in advance, strengthen risk management and support more efficient and compliant customs clearance. Shipment details, including origin, destination, cargo details and party information, must be provided well in advance of goods' arrival at ports of discharge. When the management of this process is poor, disruptions can cause delays, penalties or rejection at destination. ACI is a documentary pre-clearance requirement that applies to more than 25 African countries, but there is no harmonized process, creating scope for subtle but critical differences in formats, timelines and validation rules across markets. Core documents such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice or packing list can contain errors or inconsistencies that frequently cause clearance delays. How a third-party ACI partner can prevent disruption Documentary compliance is the key challenge for exporters, bringing operational risk. Small inconsistencies, such as a mismatch in consignee details or HS description, can result in last-minute amendments and re-issuance requests, delaying clearance and increasing port storage times. Penalties and non-compliance fees may be levied, and cargo may be held until discrepancies are resolved. The key to avoiding these issues is ensuring predictable compliance outcomes through data consistency and completeness. Verification, consistency and predictability SGS ACI registration services support exporters from the early stages of the shipment process, reviewing shipment documentation to ensure coherence and destination alignment before submission to local platforms or authorities - thereby identifying issues early, reducing rework and minimizing clearance uncertainty. By focusing on verification and consistency before submission, SGS helps exporters reduce disruption and improve compliance predictability in complex trade environments. Further details of SGS's ACI services are available in the Q2 PCA newsletter .
Caracal USA® Appoints PERDIGON as Exclusive Distributor in Guatemala
Thu, Jun 18, 2026 21:00 EDT
Partnership strengthens Caracal USA®'s footprint in Central America and expands access to premium firearm platforms. Caracal USA ®, a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of small arms for the law enforcement and defense markets, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with PERDIGON, a leading firearms and ammunition distributor in Guatemala. Founded in 2017, PERDIGON was established to consolidate import operations and strengthen its position within the firearms and ammunition distribution sector. Backed by more than 27 years of experience through its affiliated companies and leadership team, the company has become one of Guatemala's leading distributors of premium firearms products. Through its retail division, LEGION, one of the country's premier specialty firearms retailers, PERDIGON has developed a strong reputation for product expertise, customer service, and brand development. PERDIGON further differentiates itself through comprehensive post-sales support, including a certified gunsmith workshop, Cerakote® finishing services, and custom Kydex holster manufacturing through its affiliate company, VITRUS. Rodolfo Orozco, Commercial Director of PERDIGON, stated, "We are proud to be selected as Caracal USA's exclusive distributor in Guatemala. Caracal has established itself as a manufacturer of innovative and reliable firearm platforms, and we are excited to introduce these products to the Guatemalan market. Through our distribution network, technical expertise, and commitment to commercial and professional users throughout the country." Through this exclusive agreement, PERDIGON will bring Caracal USA's advanced firearm platforms to the Guatemalan market, leveraging its established retail network, technical expertise, and strategic marketing capabilities tailored to premium international brands. "Caracal USA is excited to expand our network of distributors into Guatemala," said Jeffrey Spalding, CEO and President of Caracal USA. "Our relationship with PERDIGON has continued to strengthen over the past few years, and we find ourselves in a position at this time to take the next step and bring Caracal products to commercial, law enforcement, and firearms enthusiasts throughout Guatemala." Caracal USA continues to expand its global distribution network while supporting the needs of military, law enforcement, and commercial customers worldwide. For more information about Caracal USA and its full line of firearms, visit www.caracalusa.com . Follow along on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , or LinkedIn .
