Accuracy X, Inc. Reforges the M45A2 Battle Pistol
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 09:00 EDT
Just 11 hand-built sets honor each year the Marines' M45A1 CQBP served, 2012 - 2022. Accuracy X, Inc (AXI) , the maker of the world's proven most accurate pistols, has introduced the M45A2 Battle Pistol , a hand-built tribute to the Colt M45A1 close-quarters battle pistol (CQBP) carried by U.S. Marine Corps special operations units, offered as a numbered collector set strictly limited to 11. The M45A1 CQBP served from 2012 to 2022 - 11 years - and Accuracy X is building one pistol for each of those years, engraving every example with its corresponding year. Accuracy X conceived the M45A2 Battle Pistol as the successor it believes the M45A1 CQBP deserved. When the M45A1 CQBP was decommissioned in 2022, closing a chapter of 1911 service that began with the U.S. military more than a century ago, the company set out to answer a single question: what should that pistol be today? The result carries the M45A1 CQBP's legacy forward on a modern platform. Chambered in .45 ACP, the double-stack M45A2 Battle Pistol pairs the cartridge's heritage and authority with the capacity, balance, and precision of an Accuracy X build. It features a carbon-composite double-stack grip, a flat dark earth finish with a battle patina, and a blacked-out barrel, trigger, and small parts for a more dramatic look. Sighting is handled by a Tritium front SLOT SIGHT and Accuracy X fiber-optic rear sight of the company's own design, working with its patented Multi-Sight™ System and SLOT Sight™ System , which let the shooter reconfigure the pistol for red-dot optics and other setups in seconds. An extended Picatinny rail, front and rear serrations, and a lanyard loop in the mainspring housing round out the build. The M45A2 Battle Pistol also carries markings that echo its predecessor: an Accuracy X shield and three stars in place of the Colt roll mark, an "AXI Government Model" stamp, a "U.S." mark on the dust cover, and an inspection-style mark reimagined as a QR code that links to accuracyx.com . Every pistol is hand-fitted by AXI's master craftsmen and made in the USA from American-made components. Each of the 11 sets arrives as a complete collector's package: the M45A2 Battle Pistol, an engraved USMC utility fighting knife, a life size replica of the actual battle map of the Iwo Jima WWII campaign, a military-grade combat compass, a signed five-shot, 25-yard test target, and a branded hard case. For Accuracy X President Steve Huff, the project is personal. He was raised in a Marine Corps family; his father served with the Corps in Korea, and his brother served after him, and the M45A2 Battle Pistol gave him a way to honor that legacy through the company he built. "The M45A1 CQBP was the last chapter of the 1911's service to this country, and we wanted to write the one that should have come next," said Huff. "Each of these 11 pistols carries a year the M45A1 CQBP served, and each is built to the standard we're known for, where excellent isn't good enough. This project is personal for me, and I'm proud of what our craftsmen created." M45A2 Battle Pistol Specifications: Platform: Double-stack 1911 (1911 HiCAP) Caliber: .45 ACP Grips: Carbon-composite, double-stack Finish: Flat dark earth with battle patina; blacked-out barrel, trigger, and small parts Front Sight: SLOT Sight Tritium, in-house design; compatible with the patented Multi-Sight System Optic/Sight System: Multi-Sight System accepts red-dot optics and additional fixed fiber optic module Rail: Extended Picatinny rail with ball cut Slide: Front and rear serrations Additional Features: Lanyard loop in the mainspring housing Availability: Numbered collector set, strictly limited to 11. Half remain available. MSRP: $9,212 (plus shipping and insurance) Learn more about the development of the M45A2 Battle Pistol in AXI's recent video release. To order, contact Accuracy X at info@accuracyx.com or 877-762-1911. For more information on Accuracy X, visit its website or follow along on Instagram , Facebook , X , or YouTube .
September 2026 Learning Opportunities and Events at the American Marketing Association
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 09:00 EDT
For Immediate Release: September 1, 2026 Contact: Amy Gwiazdowski, agwiazdowski@ama.org September 2026 Learning Opportunities and Events at the American Marketing Association September learning opportunities: marketing metrics, Meta ads, AI integration, and career development Chicago, IL -This September, the American Marketing Association (AMA) is hosting new learning opportunities for marketers. AMA's professional development offerings are designed to meet marketers where they are, whether it's looking to deepen expertise or explore the latest trends shaping the future of marketing, the goal is to enable marketers to expand their knowledge base in accessible ways. For additional information and registration details for virtual trainings, bootcamps, and conferences, visit AMA.org . If you have questions about any of AMA's learning opportunities, please reach out for more information. Virtual Trainings, Bootcamps & Webinars Modernizing the Marketing Curriculum for an AI-First Workforce September 1, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT Webinar This webinar focuses on bringing forth the strategies so that students leave their universities with the skills and knowledge to not only think critically, but also use AI responsibly, and create value in an AI-first workplace. Presented by UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School professor, Mark McNeilly, this webinar will leave participants with actionable ideas, real examples, and a framework for integrating AI into marketing curriculums. The Marketing Metric Survival Guide (No Statistics Required) September 15, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT Virtual Training Designed for marketers stepping into leadership, this interactive 2-hour session focuses on selecting, presenting, and defending the marketing metrics that matter most to senior leadership and finance. Taught by Harvard and Northeastern educator Dr. Christina Ing, participants will learn how to move past vanity metrics, communicate marketing value in plain language, and leave with a working framework, short list of core metrics, and one-page reporting template. Meta Ads in 2026: AI, Advantage+ and What's Actually Working September 16, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 CDT Virtual Training This practical workshop brings marketers up to speed on current Meta advertising strategies, privacy-first measurement, and platform updates. Led by accredited Meta trainer Alison Battisby, attendees will learn how to leverage Advantage+ campaigns, utilize AI tools for copy and creating testing, set up the Conversions API, and apply proven budgeting and A/B testing frameworks within Ads Manager. The Future of Your Marketing Career: A Live Panel & Peer Braindates (Members Only) September 17, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CST Webinar This members-only event pairs an insightful industry discussion with small-group peer networking to help marketers navigate career shifts. Drawing from the 2026 AMA State of Marketing Careers Report, a 50-minute panel explores which skills retain value in an evolving landscape. The session concludes with interactive "Braindates" - peer-to-peer breakout discussions capped at 8 participants - to discuss real-world career moves and pressure-test ideas. Presented by Molly Soat (VP of Professional Development, AMA), Tiffany Wilburn (Global Marketing Strategy Practice Lead, Overline), and others. Measure What Matters in Content Marketing September 22, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT Virtual Training This practical 2-hour workshop helps content teams break out of the isolated reporting and establish a goal-oriented measurement strategy that directly informs business decisions. Led by digital marketing strategists and educator Zontee Hou, participants will learn how to define data ownership, leverage existing data to refine segmentation and personalization, eliminate content gaps, and operationalize a scalable implementation plan. LinkedIn Learning Generative AI for Marketing Professional Certificate by the AMA Online | 4 Hours | Beginner AMA's Generative AI for Marketing Professionals Certificate course is available on the LinkedIn Learning platform. Generative AI is revolutionizing marketing and content creation. This new learning path equips marketers with the essential skills they need to harness AI tools responsibly, from prompt engineering fundamentals to creating authentic content and developing strategic AI implementation plans. Learners will acquire practical applications that will help boost productivity and drive innovation in their work. Events Transform Your Marketing with AI: Hands-On Workshop Series (Sept 2026) September 3 - 24, 2026 (Online | 4 sessions) Live Sessions: September 3, 10, 17, and 24 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM CST This comprehensive four-week, cohort-based workshop series equips marketers with hands-on skills to integrate AI models into their daily workflows. Led by digital agency founder and global marketing speaker Will Francis, participants will build a complete AI-assisted strategy, produce multi-format on-brand content, automate reporting, and earn a digital badge and certificate. Upcoming Conferences Virtual Conference: Unlock the Power of AI in Marketing September 22, 2026 | TIME TBD Online This virtual conference provides strategic operators and marketing decision-makers with a practical overview of how AI is transforming content creation, campaign optimization, and marketing workflows. Featuring a keynote speaker from former Meta Head of Global Marketing Nicole Alexander, attendees will learn frameworks for evaluating AI tools, implementing brand and ethical guardrails, and driving personalization while maintaining a human touch. All sessions will be available on-demand for 6 months following the live event. 2026 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education November 8-11, 2026 Denver, CO The AMA Symposium has been shaping the future of higher ed marketing for over 30 years with a peer reviewed program designed to refine strategy, strengthen institutional reputation, nad support long-term financial health. Featuring keynotes from facilitator, strategic advisor and acclaimed author Priya Parker, Hello Sunshine CEO Maureen Polo, and award-winning marketer and cultural translator Dr. Marcus Collins, attendees will participate in interactive workshops, breakout sessions, and small group discussions covering topics such as enrollment, branding, marketing technologies, and AI. Attendees can also connect in the interactive exhibit hall and the new AMA Braindate Lounge to collaborate and solve pressing higher education challenges. For Immediate Release: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 Contact: Amy Gwiazdowski, agwiazdowski@ama.org Call for Proposals Now Open: 2025 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education Influence the Future of the Higher Education Marketing Community Chicago, IL - The American Marketing Association (AMA) officially opens the call for proposals for speakers at the 2025 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education . The event will take place at the Gaylord Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, MD, November 9-12, 2025. Join the AMA as a conference presenter to share content that strengthens the profession of higher education marketing, expand personal networks through an audience of peers, and raise the institution's or company's visibility. Submissions are open through May 5, 2025. Submit here . The Symposium is an opportunity for marketers to share, connect, and learn at the leading (and largest) conference to advance the higher education marketing field. The Symposium's content is structured to help higher ed marketers of all levels build strong brands, drive revenue, engage audiences, support career and team growth, and move the industry and institutions forward. Proposal timeline: Monday, May 5, 2025: Submission deadline Week of June 30, 2025: Selected proposals notified Speakers must be available to present during the event dates: November 9-12, 2025. All speakers will need to register for the conference. One complimentary speaker registration is provided per session, and additional speakers are required to register through the AMA website. Additional information and requirements can be found on AMA's call for proposals page. ###
QCS Annual Conference to Explore AI, the Future of Food and Beverage Industry Innovation
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 08:55 EDT
QCS Annual Conference to Explore AI, the Future of Food and Beverage Industry Innovation Food and beverage professionals invited to connect, learn, and lead October 18-20 in Plano, Texas LISLE, ILL., September 1, 2026 - QCS Purchasing Cooperative invites food and beverage professionals from its members and supply partner companies to attend the 2026 QCS Annual Conference, taking place October 18-20 in Plano, Texas. The annual conference will bring together leaders from food and beverage manufacturing, procurement, packaging, operations, and supplier organizations for three days of education, collaboration, innovation, and meaningful industry connections. This year's program will explore many of the trends reshaping the food and beverage industry, including artificial intelligence, shifting consumer preferences, ingredient innovation, sustainable packaging, and the future of food production. "Food and beverage companies are navigating rapid changes in technology, consumer expectations, and their operations," said Ken Klug, President and CEO of QCS Purchasing Cooperative. "The QCS Annual Conference gives industry professionals an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, learn from one another, and have the conversations that can help prepare their organizations for what comes next." The conference will open with a keynote presentation by Dan Chuparkoff, an internationally recognized speaker on artificial intelligence, innovation, and organizational change. Chuparkoff will share practical insights into how leaders can understand and apply emerging technology within their organizations. He will also moderate an AI panel discussion following the opening general session, bringing together industry perspectives on the opportunities, challenges, and real-world implications of artificial intelligence. Conference programming will feature discussions to help attendees better understand the forces shaping food and beverage manufacturing and procurement. Educational highlights include: The Future of Food, exploring emerging market forces, consumer expectations, and innovations shaping the next generation of food and beverage products. Recycled Plastics, examining packaging sustainability, material availability, and the opportunities and challenges associated with greater use of recycled content. Natural Colors, addressing changing consumer preferences, ingredient reformulation, and the growing demand for recognizable, naturally derived ingredients. Additional sessions focus on leadership, operations, procurement, and strategies to help companies navigate a changing business environment. "QCS brings together leaders with a wide range of experience across the food and beverage industry," Klug said. "That diversity fosters an environment where attendees can exchange ideas, learn what others are doing successfully, and identify opportunities they might not discover on their own." In addition to educational programming, the QCS Annual Conference offers opportunities to build relationships with industry peers, category experts, and supply partners. Attendees will also participate in Taste of Texas, a group networking event at Legacy Hall in Plano. The event will blend regional food and beverage experiences with interactive activities that encourage conversation, creativity, and new connections. Whether attendees are focused on emerging technology, product innovation, sustainable operations, procurement strategy, or professional growth, the conference offers practical insights and access to peers facing many of the same challenges and opportunities. Registration and additional conference information are available at: qcspurchasing.com
GILBERT O'SULLIVAN - CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF MUSIC UK TOUR 2026
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 08:21 EDT
One of the UK's most distinctive and enduring singer-songwriters, Gilbert O'Sullivan , takes to the road this autumn for a special UK tour Celebrating 60 Years of Music . Since his breakthrough with Nothing Rhymed in 1970, Gilbert has enjoyed an extraordinary career, achieving 16 Top 40 records, including six No. 1 songs , and creating some of the best-loved songs of the past six decades, including Alone Again (Naturally) , Clair , Get Down and Nothing Rhymed. He has received three Ivor Novello Awards , including Songwriter of the Year, as well as three Grammy nominations . The tour comes as Gilbert prepares to release his 21st studio album , On The Record , on 6 November through BMG. Featuring 13 new songs, the album includes the new single Growing Old Disgracefully and Is That You? , a duet with Andrea Corr . The concerts will feature songs from across Gilbert's remarkable catalogue alongside material from the new album - an intimate celebration of a songwriting career spanning six decades. For more information on Gilbert and the new album: www.gilbertosullivan.co.uk GILBERT O'SULLIVAN - CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF MUSIC Tue 1 Sep - Malvern Theatres, Malvern - BOOK TICKETS Tue 8 Sep - The Stables, Milton Keynes - BOOK TICKETS Wed 9 Sep - The Stables, Milton Keynes - BOOK TICKETS Mon 21 Sep - Lancaster Grand Theatre, Lancaster - BOOK TICKETS Tue 22 Sep - Grand Opera House, York - BOOK TICKETS Thu 24 Sep - The Queen's Hall, Edinburgh - BOOK TICKETS Sun 27 Sep - St George's Hall, Bradford - BOOK TICKETS Mon 28 Sep - Buxton Opera House, Buxton - BOOK TICKETS Wed 30 Sep - Loughborough Town Hall, Loughborough - BOOK TICKETS Thu 1 Oct - CAST, Doncaster - BOOK TICKETS Sat 3 Oct - Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe - BOOK TICKETS Sun 4 Oct - The Apex, Bury St Edmunds - BOOK TICKETS Tue 6 Oct - Pavilion Theatre, Worthing - BOOK TICKETS Wed 7 Oct - St George's Bristol, Bristol - BOOK TICKETS Mon 12 Oct - Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool - BOOK TICKETS Wed 14 Oct - Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa - BOOK TICKETS Thu 29 Oct - Forum Theatre, Billingham - BOOK TICKETS Fri 30 Oct - Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate - BOOK TICKETS Wed 4 Nov - New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth - BOOK TICKETS Fri 6 Nov - Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden - BOOK TICKETS Sun 8 Nov - The London Palladium, London - BOOK TICKETS - ENDS -
SGS Supports the Future of Seafood at the Responsible Seafood Summit
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 05:14 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to announce its sponsorship of the Responsible Seafood Summit in Bangkok, Thailand. The event runs from September 21-24, 2026, with an SGS stand welcoming attendees seeking information, expert guidance and advice on food safety, quality assurance, traceability and sustainability services. The Responsible Seafood Summit brings together industry leaders, innovators, producers, retailers, non-governmental organizations and experts from around the world to discuss the most pressing challenges and biggest opportunities facing the seafood industry. SGS experts will be available throughout the event, ready to provide specialist guidance, technical insight and tailored service recommendations to strengthen seafood businesses' food safety, quality assurance, traceability and sustainability. Partnering with the Center for Responsible Seafood, the Summit expands this year to provide an extra afternoon of programming and a day of in-depth sessions, giving attendees additional opportunities to explore the issues shaping the future of seafood. End-to-end seafood services SGS offers a comprehensive portfolio of seafood services. With a global network of over 90 laboratories and 300 qualified inspectors in key seafood-producing countries, its capabilities include: Inspection services covering product quality, cold chain management, hygiene, traceability, parasite detection and sampling, conducted in aquaculture settings, ports, processing facilities and pre‑shipment locations with consolidated reporting and analysis via the SGS Global Food Inspection (GFI) digital platform ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory testing for pathogens, contaminants, veterinary drug residues, additives and nutrition, alongside authenticity testing, species identification, shelf‑life validation and seafood certification scheme compliance Label reviews and regulatory compliance, including support for US, EU and China market requirements Digitalized Environmental Monitoring Programs (EMP) supported by the EMVision platform Visitors to the SGS stand will have the opportunity to engage with experts and learn more about solutions that support food safety, quality assurance, traceability and operational efficiency across the seafood supply chain. The Responsible Seafood Summit takes place at the Shangri-La Bangkok Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. Stakeholders are advised to register now to ensure access. For further information, please contact: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager Health & Nutrition Tel: +1 973 461 1498
SGS to host free webinar on PFAS, endocrine disruptors and biodegradability in the cosmetics industry
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 04:56 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, will host a complimentary webinar, 'PFAS, Endocrine Disruptors and Biodegradability: New Challenges for the Cosmetics Industry', on September 23, 2026. Evolving regulations, emerging scientific concerns and growing sustainability expectations are reshaping the cosmetics industry. Manufacturers must navigate changing requirements for substances of concern such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), while addressing growing scrutiny of endocrine-disrupting properties and environmental performance. In this environment, reliable testing strategies and scientifically robust assessment methods play a critical role in supporting product safety, compliance and informed decision-making. Generating high-quality data can help organizations respond to regulatory developments, reduce development risks and support more informed product development and market access decisions. In this webinar, SGS experts will examine three key topics impacting the cosmetics industry: PFAS, endocrine disruptors and biodegradability. The session will cover current regulatory developments, analytical solutions for PFAS testing, challenges associated with endocrine disruptor assessment, including the EASZY test for detecting endocrine activity, and biodegradability testing strategies for evaluating environmental performance, including polymers and polymer microparticles. With practical scientific insights and real-world testing considerations, the webinar will give attendees a clear understanding of the tools and approaches available to support product safety assessments, regulatory compliance and environmental performance evaluation. Taking place on September 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM (Eastern Daylight Time), the webinar is aimed at professionals across the cosmetics industry, particularly those working in R&D, manufacturing, quality, sustainability, regulatory affairs and product development. Stakeholders are encouraged to register now to secure their place at this complimentary webinar. For further information, please contact: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager Health & Nutrition Tel: +1 973 461 1498
20:20 Innovation acquires PracticeWeb, expanding marketing support for UK accountancy firms
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 04:48 EDT
20:20 Innovation, the training, resources and consultancy provider for UK accountancy firms, has acquired PracticeWeb, the specialist marketing agency for accountants and tax professionals. The acquisition brings PracticeWeb's marketing expertise, including SEO, content, bespoke website design and PPC, into 20:20 Innovation's existing portfolio of training, technical resources, consultancy, marketing, and file review services. For accountancy firms already working with 20:20 Innovation, the move means access to a wider range of marketing support without needing to bring in a separate agency. For PracticeWeb clients, it means continued access to the service they already know, backed by the scale and resources of 20:20 Innovation. All existing PracticeWeb clients will become part of the 20:20 Innovation community. Day-to-day service continues as normal, delivered by the same team that clients already work with. 20:20 Innovation has built its reputation on deep sector knowledge, working exclusively with UK accountancy firms across training, technical resources, consultancy and marketing services. That same sector focus now extends to PracticeWeb's marketing clients, with the same commitment to responsive, high-quality service that both businesses have been built on. Marketing has become a bigger priority for accountancy firms competing for new clients and staff in a crowded market. Firms need websites that convert, content that demonstrates technical credibility and search visibility that gets them found by the right prospects. This acquisition means 20:20 Innovation can now offer: SEO built around how accountants and their clients actually search Content that reflects genuine technical authority Bespoke websites designed specifically for accountancy firms PPC services to drive qualified enquiries Combined with 20:20 Innovation's existing portfolio of sector-specific products and services, firms now have a single, sector-specialist partner covering both technical development and commercial growth. Michael Roberts, CEO of 20:20 Innovation, said: "PracticeWeb has built something genuinely valuable for accountancy firms who need marketing that actually understands their sector. Bringing that expertise into 20:20 Innovation means we can now support firms end to end, from technical training and compliance through to the marketing that helps them grow. We're looking forward to welcoming the PracticeWeb team and clients and continuing to deliver the service they've come to expect." Louise White, CEO of Sift, said: "We're pleased to see PracticeWeb join 20:20 Innovation. Both businesses share a real commitment to the accountancy sector, and this move gives PracticeWeb's clients access to a broader range of services while keeping the quality of support they rely on. It's a good outcome for everyone involved." Accountancy firms interested in 20:20 Innovation's expanded marketing services, including websites, SEO, content and PPC, can visit http://www.2020innovation.com to find out more.
Eight Percent of Britain's Workers Works in Logistics (and Most of It Starts With a Pallet Truck)
Tue, Sep 01, 2026 03:56 EDT
Recent figures from Logistics UK's 2026 Report show that logistics now account for roughly eight per cent of the entire UK workforce, making it one of the country's largest employment sectors. The scale of that figure is easy to overlook, but it points to an enormous volume of manual handling equipment being relied upon across warehouses - particularly in the Midlands - every single working day. With warehousing, distribution and transport now employing such a significant share of the workforce, the company says it's worth pausing to consider what that looks like on the ground. Behind the headline figure are millions of individual tasks carried out day in, day out: pallets being moved, stock being picked, goods being loaded onto vehicles. Much of that work still depends on straightforward manual pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables, rather than the automation that often dominates industry headlines. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of the West Midlands-based Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "It's a striking figure when you actually stop and think about it. One in twelve people working in the UK is doing a job connected to logistics in some way, and a huge proportion of those roles involve physically moving goods around a site. That's not a small, niche part of the economy, it's a genuinely enormous workforce. "What that means for us is straightforward. Every one of those workers needs equipment that's reliable, safe and suited to the job they're doing. We're talking about millions of individual lifts, pushes and moves happening across the Midlands on any given day, and the equipment behind that work doesn't get anywhere near the attention it probably deserves." It's easy for people to picture logistics as forklifts and conveyor belts, but for a huge amount of this workforce, it's still a pallet truck , stacker truck or lift table doing the heavy lifting, quite literally. Given how many people that now represents, making sure that equipment is fit for purpose is something that affects a genuinely significant slice of the UK workforce. Chesworth added, "We'd like to see this figure prompt a bit more recognition of just how much everyday manual handling equipment underpins the wider logistics sector, rather than it being treated as an afterthought next to bigger, more visible investments." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
Tucson Federal Credit Union Commits More Than $216,200 in Second-Quarter Community Giving Across Education, Housing Access, Workforce Readiness, Youth Programs, and Financial Education
Mon, Aug 31, 2026 13:00 EDT
Total includes a $120,000 multi-year investment establishing the Student Impact Fund at Catholic University - Tucson, along with support for identification access, career readiness, performing arts, technical education, and youth athletics Tucson Federal Credit Union (TFCU) continued its community investment work in the second quarter of 2026, committing more than $216,200 in grants, sponsorships, and programmatic support (including a $120,000 multi-year commitment to Catholic University - Tucson) for organizations advancing education, housing access, workforce readiness, youth development, financial education, and community-based programming across Arizona. The second-quarter commitments build on TFCU's ongoing approach to community giving: investing in organizations that are actively removing barriers, expanding opportunity, and improving quality of life for individuals and families. "Our community investment strategy is rooted in partnership," said John "Jax" Jackson, Vice President of Culture and Development at Tucson Federal Credit Union. "These organizations are doing work that directly affects access, stability, education, and long-term opportunity. As a local credit union, our role is to show up in ways that are useful, intentional, and connected to the needs of the people we serve." SIGNATURE EDUCATION INVESTMENT TFCU's largest second-quarter commitment was a $120,000 multi-year gift to Catholic University - Tucson, establishing the Tucson Federal Credit Union Student Impact Fund. The full commitment is reflected in TFCU's Q2 giving total, noted as a multi-year investment. The fund will support student scholarships and program operations, strengthening career pathways for students in Southern Arizona. The partnership reflects an existing relationship between the organizations. Over the past three years, Catholic University - Tucson students have interned with TFCU's Business Services team, gaining direct experience in finance and operations, with several internships leading to full-time employment after graduation. The collaboration also extends into the classroom, with TFCU leaders including Christopher Fonseca, Chief Financial Officer, and Shaima Namazifard, Vice President of Business Services, serving as instructors in the Tucson program. "TFCU is deeply committed to being more than just a financial institution; we are a partner in our community's growth," said Matthew Gaspari, President and CEO of Tucson Federal Credit Union. "Our partnership with Catholic University allows us to fulfill a vital mission: providing direct career pathways and bridging educational gaps for first-time minority college students. By investing in our community in this manner, we are removing barriers to entry and ensuring that the next generation of Tucson's leaders has the support they need to thrive." HOUSING ACCESS & ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTATION TFCU awarded $15,000 to Homeless ID Project to help individuals and families obtain identification documents needed to access housing, employment, healthcare, and other essential services. Identification is often a first barrier for people working to move out of homelessness or instability. By supporting Homeless ID Project, TFCU is helping address a practical but critical need: ensuring that people have the documentation required to take the next step toward stability. "This support will have a meaningful impact on the individuals and families we serve by helping us provide the identification documents needed to access housing, employment, healthcare, and other essential services," said Megan Loden, Development Director of Homeless ID Project. "We are honored to have TFCU as a partner in this important work." WORKFORCE READINESS & ECONOMIC MOBILITY TFCU awarded $10,000 to Dress for Success Arizona, supporting the organization's work to help women achieve economic mobility through professional attire, career development tools, job readiness support, and a network of encouragement. The investment aligns with TFCU's broader commitment to expanding access to opportunity, particularly for individuals working toward employment, career advancement, and long-term financial independence. TFCU also invested in career and technical education through a $1,500 contribution to Pima JTED, supporting programming connected to student training and career preparation. The gift was coordinated with Debra Amos, a Pima JTED Cosmetology Instructor, and reflects TFCU's continued support for practical education pathways that prepare students for the workforce. FINANCIAL EDUCATION & LONG-TERM CAPABILITY TFCU also supported 3rd Decade's financial education work in Southern Arizona with a $5,000 tier-three sponsorship. Originally approved in September 2025, the organization's Investing in Futures: A Financial Literacy Luncheon was rescheduled to April 2026, convening financial services professionals, nonprofit leaders, and community supporters around the shared goal of expanding financial education and mentorship for young adults. The organization's work aligns directly with TFCU's mission to create opportunity through education and access. Its free programming helps young adults build financial knowledge, develop healthier financial habits, and work toward long-term financial confidence. ARTS, CULTURE & COMMUNITY VOICE TFCU contributed $1,000 to Borderlands Theater, supporting the Tucson nonprofit's work in storytelling, cultural programming, education, and community-centered theater. The contribution reflects TFCU's recognition that a thriving community depends not only on financial stability and education, but also on the arts and cultural institutions that help tell the stories of the region. YOUTH ATHLETICS & SCHOOL-BASED PROGRAMMING TFCU also directed support toward youth athletics and school-based programming. A $2,000 contribution to Pueblo High School Baseball Booster will help replace equipment stolen from the team's batting cage, with a banner recognizing TFCU's support planned for the baseball field. TFCU contributed $1,000 to Marana Thunder Youth Cheerleading, supporting equipment for game days, including canopies, signage, and snacks. TFCU also contributed $3,000 to Tucson Mexico Sister Cities in support of the organization's Mexican Independence Day Concert, held September 15, 2026. Together, TFCU's Q2 giving reflects the credit union's continued commitment to being "beyond involved" - not only funding local work, but strengthening relationships with the organizations, schools, and community leaders building opportunity across the region.
NOMAR CID Forecast Symposium to explore "Building Market Momentum and Opportunity"
Mon, Aug 31, 2026 07:49 EDT
The New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (NOMAR) and its Commercial Investment Division (CID) announced today that early bird registration is open for the 16 th Annual Economic and Real Estate Forecast Symposium on Thursday, Oct. 8 at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Drive in Metairie. Presented by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company , the Forecast Symposium is recognized as the Gulf South's premier forum for real estate and economic insight, bringing together industry leaders, economists and decision-makers for a look at the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the market. This year's theme, "Building Market Momentum and Opportunity," will explore the forces driving the Greater New Orleans economy and real estate market, where momentum is building and what shifts could mean for businesses, investors and real estate professionals. Sessions will examine the local and national economy, financing trends, market conditions and how emerging industries are creating new opportunities and shaping real estate across the Gulf South. "We're seeing momentum build across our region, but understanding where that momentum is coming from and how to capitalize on it is critical," said Cameron Lombardo, CCIM, conference chairman. "The Forecast brings together experts who can help us look beyond the headlines and better understand what's happening with the economy, financing, development and emerging industries. Our goal is for attendees to leave with a clearer picture of where the market is headed and where the opportunities are." Discussions throughout the day will examine where momentum is taking hold in the regional and national economy, what interest rates, insurance costs, financing and affordability could mean for the market ahead, and how major investments and emerging industries are creating new opportunities across Louisiana. Speakers will also explore: The region's economic development outlook Realities of getting development projects off the ground in today's environment Trends across the office, industrial, multifamily and retail sectors. How artificial intelligence and rapidly evolving technology are changing the way real estate professionals do business Adapting responsibly to new technology while maintaining the value of human expertise "Real estate is closely tied to the overall health and direction of our regional economy, which is why having access to good information and diverse perspectives is so important," said Guy Williams, chairman and CEO of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. "The Forecast Symposium gives professionals an opportunity to hear directly from people who are watching those trends, making investments and helping shape what comes next. We're proud to continue supporting a program that helps our business community make informed decisions and identify opportunities for growth." The Forecast Symposium is open to everyone, not just those working in real estate. While the event offers valuable insights for residential and commercial real estate professionals, it is also designed for developers, lenders, investors, business leaders, policymakers and anyone interested in understanding the economic trends and real estate issues shaping the Greater New Orleans region. Tickets and further information are available online at nolaforecast.org. ### About NOMAR's Commercial Investment Division CID is the commercial arm of NOMAR, formed to foster knowledge, education, integrity and professionalism among commercial real estate practitioners, create more opportunities for success for its members, and promote investment that supports economic growth for the New Orleans region. Learn more at nomar.org/commercial. About NOMAR Established in 1915, the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (NOMAR) is a professional trade association that serves a diverse cross-section of members of the real estate community throughout the ten-parish region. Through advocacy, empowerment, and education, we are building a greater New Orleans. Learn more at nomar.org
Velvet Nights Returns: Jazz Fundraiser Merges Entertainment with Philanthropy in the Inland Empire
Sun, Aug 30, 2026 15:12 EDT
Live Jazz, Fine Dining, and Dancing: Velvet Nights Returns to Grand Taj. It's an Evening of Elegant Entertainment and Community Support on November 14 RIVERSIDE, CA - The Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation announces "Velvet Nights," its 8th Annual Jazz Fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Grand Taj in Riverside. The elegant evening will feature live jazz music, a gourmet dinner, dancing, and exciting raffles. "Velvet Nights brings together our community for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration," said Dell Roberts, president of the Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation. "This fundraiser supports our foundation's mission to empower citizens of the Inland Empire through cultural activities, education, and economic opportunities, including the Annual Riverside Black History Parade," said Carmen Roberts, Held at the elegant Grand Taj venue, guests will enjoy an evening of world-class jazz entertainment, fine dining and dancing. The event provides an ideal opportunity to support meaningful community programs while enjoying an exceptional night out with friends and colleagues. Individual guest tickets are $150 per person, and group tables of eight seats are $1,200. Sponsorship packages are also available for businesses and individuals who want to support the foundation's mission at a higher level. Community members are encouraged to visit the foundation's website for more information about ticket options, sponsorship opportunities, and event details. Early registration is recommended as seating is limited for this popular annual event. EVENT DETAILS Event: Velvet Nights - 8th Annual Jazz Fundraiser Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Location: Grand Taj, 10190 Indiana Avenue, Riverside, CA 92503 Phone: (951) 684-8782 Ticket Pricing: Single Guest Ticket - $150 | Guest Table (8 seats) - $1,200 Tickets: ADCRFundation.org About The Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation The Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation comprises dedicated volunteers committed to empowering Inland Empire Citizens through cultural activities, education, and economic growth. The Foundation showcases the Inland Empire's rich cultural diversity with colorful, inspiring, and authentic cultural activities throughout the year. Their signature event is the Annual Black History Parade and Expo in Downtown Riverside.
Ascendus, MetLife Foundation and the Urban Institute to examine what happens after a small business owner reaches capital
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 16:25 EDT
Getting Ready to Grow: How Small Capital Drives Economic Mobility convenes funders, CDFI practitioners and researchers on September 16 in New York and online. NEW YORK, August 21, 2026 - Ascendus, a nationwide Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), will convene Getting Ready to Grow: How Small Capital Drives Economic Mobility on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with MetLife Foundation and the Urban Institute. The session runs 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time at MetLife, 200 Park Avenue, New York. The conversation takes up a question the sector usually treats as settled: whether reaching capital is the same thing as moving up. Every lending system has to draw a line somewhere, and the same rules applied evenly still leave capable owners on the other side of it. Get Ready, an Ascendus program launched in 2023 with support from MetLife Foundation, pairs a $500 revolving line of credit with one-on-one financial coaching, and lets borrowers graduate to a $5,000 line after three months of on-time repayment. Personal credit score is not an eligibility requirement. Tia Hodges of MetLife Foundation moderates. She is joined by Paul Quintero and Neysa Cruceta of Ascendus, Brett Theodos of the Urban Institute, and a Get Ready borrower speaking about their own experience. What the research found so far In October 2025 the Urban Institute published Building Credit for Small Business Owners: A Case Study of the Get Ready Program , by Brett Theodos and Amanda Hermans. The study examined access and implementation across 174 borrowers, combining program and pre-loan credit data with interviews. Its findings, as published: The average incoming borrower credit score was 571 - below the threshold CDFI lenders typically use. As of March 2025, 76% of accounts were in active good standing or had closed with obligations met. Of the borrowers evaluated for an increase, 41% moved to the $5,000 line or beyond. Across all 174 borrowers, the figure is 35%. 32% of borrowers had household incomes under $30,000, against a national median household income of $78,538 in 2023. Six borrowers have moved beyond the program into larger, traditional business loans with Ascendus. Part One examines access and implementation. It does not measure the program's effect on borrowers' credit scores. A second part of the research, from the Urban Institute, is expected in December 2026. Registration The event is open to funders, CDFI practitioners, researchers and policy partners, in person and online. Registration and the full media kit are available at ascendus.org . Press inquiries and interview requests: getready@ascendus.org.
eXp International Launches AI-Native Platform Nexus
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 09:17 EDT
What began as an AI vibe-coding challenge for Managing Director Felix Bravo has become a platform eXp plans to eventually license to competing brokerages, with early markets reporting software cost savings of up to 70%. eXp Realty®, the most agent-centric™ real estate brokerage on the planet and the core subsidiary of eXp World Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: AGNT), today pointed to Nexus, an AI-native, all-in-one operating platform built by its international division, as evidence of how deeply AI now runs through the company's technology strategy. Nexus was conceived, prototyped and built using AI-assisted development, and now runs core parts of the business for eXp International agents across dozens of countries. Underlying Nexus is an AI infrastructure that ties the platform together, rather than a collection of separate AI features layered on top of disconnected systems. That infrastructure gives agents AI-powered tools built directly into Nexus, connecting their CRM, transactions, listings and marketing into one ecosystem they can use to run and grow their business. The platform's origin traces back roughly a year, to an internal challenge issued by eXp founder Glenn Sanford. "Nexus actually comes from a project we did about a year ago in Montreal," said Felix Bravo, Managing Director of eXp International. "Glenn challenged all of us to vibe-code our ideal system for a real estate agent. What I built looked like Frankenstein and didn't work at all - but it was the origin story of Nexus." That prototype has since become a full operating platform: one login unifying CRM, transaction management, listing management, e-signature, marketing and agent recruitment, replacing the patchwork of separate tools agents typically manage across five or more disconnected systems. It is built on a single, shared codebase that adapts to each country's currency, regulatory requirements and transaction structure. An AI-Native Platform, With a Plan to Sell It Beyond eXp eXp says Nexus can cut a market's software costs by 60% to 70% by replacing per-country CRM subscriptions and separate tool licenses with one platform cost. The company is rolling Nexus out in three phases: an initial core-platform launch to pilot markets, a multi-country adoption phase, and a third phase that opens Nexus to non-eXp agents and brokerages through a subscription model with tiered pricing - turning an internal tool into a potential new product line. "This changes how eXp International is seen as we continue to scale into new countries," Bravo said. "I believe we are becoming the AI-native brokerage, we've built the first AI-native platform that can operate across many countries at once." eXp is also opening Nexus's underlying APIs directly to its agents, so those building their own AI-powered tools and workflows on third-party platforms can pull their own Nexus data into them. Bravo said the company plans to keep building on Nexus indefinitely - in keeping with what he described as an internal philosophy of never treating a platform as finished. Built by the International Division, Built for Global Scale Nexus is a project of eXp International, the portion of AGNT, Inc.'s business that operates outside the United States and Canada, spanning 26 countries. It is currently in beta following an alpha phase across Latin America, with a phased rollout underway across eXp International's markets and accessible through eXp's existing agent Hub. The platform's ambitions extend beyond eXp's own network. With the planned move to a subscription model for outside brokerages, Nexus stands to become one of AGNT's more novel bets yet: a real estate operating system built in-house, using AI, now positioned to be sold as one.
Wetlands: Britain's Climate Superheroes - and dragonflies are showing us why they matter
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 08:25 EDT
As Britain faces one of its driest summers on record, the British Dragonfly Society is highlighting the vital role healthy wetlands can play in helping our landscapes cope with extreme weather, and why dragonflies can be powerful ambassadors for their protection. More than 70% of England is currently in drought, while rivers, groundwater, and reservoirs remain under pressure. Recent rainfall has provided some temporary relief, but the latest Environment Agency figures show that a quarter of monitored river sites are still classed as exceptionally low. At the same time, the Environment Agency has published new guidance recognising nature-based solutions, including ponds, wetlands, and peatland restoration, as part of a more resilient approach to water management. These natural solutions can help capture and slow rainfall, store water and, support healthier ecosystems. For the British Dragonfly Society, this is about more than water. "Dragonflies are often thought of as creatures of summer, but they are fundamentally wetland insects," says Lauren Kennedy, Engagement Officer at the British Dragonfly Society. "Most of a dragonfly's life is spent underwater as a larva. So when we create and restore ponds and wetlands, we're creating the conditions that dragonflies need to survive, while also helping the wider landscape become more resilient to extreme weather." There is strong evidence of what can happen when lost habitat is restored. Over recent winters, more than one hundred pool complexes have been restored in a British Dragonfly Society project at Corrour Estate, Scotland. Working in partnership with the estate and funded by the Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot, pools were restored for five rare dragonfly species including Azure Hawker Dragonfly. "Summer surveys of the restoration area found larvae of all three target species, with over 40% of the restored pools holding Azure Hawker larvae." said Emma Veitch-Stevens, BDS Project Officer. "This dragonfly spends up to five years in the water before emerging as an adult, so resilient pools are vital." Across Britain, the British Dragonfly Society works with partners and landowners to create, restore and protect the freshwater habitats dragonflies depend on. The Society's work includes restoring ponds and wetlands, expanding Dragonfly Hotspots and providing advice and expertise to help make habitats better for dragonflies and other wildlife. But the need is growing. "Climate change means we're likely to face more extremes, periods of drought followed by intense rainfall," says Pam Taylor, Chair of Trustees at the British Dragonfly Society. "We need landscapes that can cope, and healthy wetlands are part of the answer." The British Dragonfly Society has launched its Help Dragonflies Thrive campaign to raise funds for the future of dragonflies and their habitats across the UK. No donation is too small! £15 could fund a Youth Membership, giving a young person their first real connection to dragonflies and wetlands. Larger gifts could go towards protecting an entire threatened species, or funding a full year of community events, training and habitat restoration. "There's something incredibly special about watching dragonflies and damselflies arrive at a pond you've created and seeing them breeding there. It's a reminder that when we provide the right habitat, wildlife really can respond. The British Dragonfly Society does vital work protecting these wonderful insects and the places they depend on, and I'm incredibly proud to be one of their Ambassadors. If you can support this campaign, please do." Joel Ashton, Author and founder of Wild your Garden, British Dragonfly Society Ambassador Find out more at https://british-dragonflies.org.uk
Advanced Diagnostics Made Human: Vitalscan Introduces Patient-Centred Private Imaging to Milton Keynes
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 06:45 EDT
For anyone worried about an unexplained health problem, getting clear answers quickly can make a significant difference. In Milton Keynes, Vitalscan is offering patients faster, more flexible access to diagnostic imaging, combining consultant-led medical expertise with modern technology and a more comfortable, patient-centred experience. Vitalscan, a CQC-regulated diagnostic centre, combines specialist medical expertise with modern imaging and a setting that gives patients more choice and privacy. The centre now provides MRI scans, ultrasound examinations and blood testing, with eligible self-pay patients able to book many MRI examinations directly without first obtaining a GP referral. Clinical and safety information is reviewed before the scan to make sure the examination is appropriate, and same-day or next-day appointments may be available. Vitalscan uses a Philips 1.5T BlueSeal MRI scanner with a 70cm-wide opening. The MRI room has adjustable ambient lighting and, where the examination allows, patients can watch Netflix or YouTube, listen to music or the radio during their scan. The centre also has private consultation spaces. The clinical expertise behind the service is equally important. MRI scans are reviewed by consultant radiologists, with patients receiving a written report and access to their images to share with their GP or specialist if required. The team includes radiologists with specialist expertise in different areas of imaging, including gastrointestinal radiology. Dr Tamer El-Holiby, Director of Vitalscan, Consultant Gastrointestinal Radiologist and Head of Gastro-Imaging, said, "People don't come to us because they simply want a scan. They come because something about their health is uncertain and they want clarity. Technology is incredibly important, but so is how someone feels throughout that process. "At Vitalscan, we have designed the diagnostic experience around both. From specialist radiology expertise and modern imaging technology to a calmer, more comfortable environment and clear access to results, our aim is to help people feel informed, supported and confident about what comes next." The centre also offers selected comprehensive MRI packages which bring several investigations together. Depending on the package, these can include multi-region imaging, blood testing, detailed pelvic imaging, cardiac screening and a private GP consultation. With NHS England reporting that 448,500 patients had been waiting six weeks or longer for one of 15 key diagnostic tests at the end of June 2026, private diagnostic providers such as Vitalscan offer another option for people looking for greater choice over where and when they receive diagnostic care. Find out more at https://vitalscan.health/
Retailers urged to look beyond BNPL as finance becomes sales battleground.
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 06:27 EDT
Retailers relying solely on buy now, pay later risk missing sales and limiting how much customers are prepared to spend, according to retail finance specialist Product Partnerships. The firm is urging retailers to consider a broader range of finance options as consumers increasingly use credit to manage major purchases and spread spending over longer periods. Longer-term finance can help make higher-value purchases more affordable by reducing monthly repayments, but the focus should be on offering suitable options that reflect customers' circumstances, support affordability and deliver good customer outcomes. Research cited by Product Partnerships found that 80% of consumers said the availability of finance heavily influenced their decision to buy from a particular retailer, while 48% said access to finance encouraged them to spend more.*1 The research also found retailers without a finance offer risk losing almost 44% of customers. Some 26% said they would either abandon the purchase or buy from another retailer, while a further 18% would have second thoughts about making the purchase.*1 Product Partnerships said the figures underline the commercial importance of finance at a time when buy now, pay later has become firmly established as a mainstream payment method. More than 17 million UK consumers use BNPL or deferred credit, according to Experian.*2 FCA figures also show deferred payment credit lending grew from £60m in 2017 to more than £13bn in 2024.*3 However, Product Partnerships argues that BNPL represents only one part of the opportunity. Longer-term regulated finance can allow retailers to spread the cost of higher-value purchases over two, three or even five years, potentially widening the pool of customers able to make larger purchases. Product Partnerships chief executive Phillip Garlick said: "BNPL has done an important job in making consumers comfortable with the idea of spreading the cost of purchases, but retailers should not assume that it is the right answer for every customer or every transaction. "For higher-value purchases, the ability to spread payments over a longer period can make a significant difference. It can bring a purchase within reach, allow customers to choose the product they actually want and give retailers access to customers they might otherwise lose. "The question retailers should be asking is not simply whether they offer finance. It is whether they have the right range of finance for their customers, their products and the size of purchase they are trying to make." The opportunity is particularly relevant in higher-ticket retail categories. V12 Retail Finance data cited by Product Partnerships showed the value of retail finance increased 4% between January and March 2026 compared with the same period last year. Furniture accounted for 57% of finance values, while home improvement was the fastest-growing category, with finance values rising by a third year on year.*4 Garlick said offering different finance options could also help retailers reduce abandoned baskets and compete with rivals offering customers greater flexibility at checkout. He added: "Retailers spend considerable amounts attracting customers and getting them to the point of purchase. Losing somebody at the final stage because the payment options do not work for them makes little commercial sense. "A broader finance proposition is ultimately about giving customers more ways to buy. Done properly, that can widen the addressable customer base, support bigger purchases and remove one of the barriers standing between consideration and a completed sale." The push comes after new FCA rules governing deferred payment credit took effect on July 15, bringing previously unregulated BNPL agreements under FCA regulation and introducing new consumer protections.*3 Product Partnerships said the changing regulatory environment also strengthens the case for retailers to take a more considered approach to finance, ensuring the products they offer are appropriate for their customers and properly integrated into the wider buying journey. Ends Sources *1 Hitachi Capital Motor Finance consumer research, cited in information supplied by Product Partnerships. The study found 80% said finance heavily influenced their choice of retailer, 48% spent more as a result, and retailers without finance risked losing almost 44% of customers. *2 Experian, Buy Now Pay Later Data. Experian states that BNPL/deferred credit is used by more than 17 million UK consumers: https://www.experian.co.uk/business-products/buy-now-pay-later-data/ *3 Financial Conduct Authority, PS26/1: Regulation of Deferred Payment Credit. FCA data cited by Product Partnerships shows DPC lending increased from £0.06bn in 2017 to more than £13bn in 2024: https://www.fca.org.uk/publications/policy-statements/ps26-1-regulation-deferred-payment-credit *4 V12 Retail Finance Q1 2026 data, cited in Product Partnerships planning material. Total finance values increased 4% year on year; furniture represented 57% of finance values and home improvement finance values increased by a third.
The Hidden Tax Traps Catching Britain's New Generation of Online Sellers
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 06:11 EDT
From TikTok Shop and Vinted to Whatnot and Depop, the UK's fastest-growing selling platforms are creating a new wave of tax mistakes as thousands of people unknowingly turn hobbies and side hustles into taxable businesses. Millions of entrepreneurial Brits have started making money through TikTok Shop, Vinted, Whatnot and Depop, but many don't realise that each platform has completely different tax rules, potentially leaving sellers with unexpected bills from HMRC. As TikTok Shop, Whatnot, Vinted and Depop reshape how people trade online, eAccounts says the varying accounting rules attached to each platform are catching sellers - and even accountants - off guard. On TikTok Shop, creators who receive free products from brands may need to declare the market value of those gifts as taxable income. Any affiliate commission earned alongside those products also creates additional tax obligations that many new creators are unaware of. Example: A creator receiving £500 of gifted products per month and earning £200 in affiliate commissions is generating £8,400 of taxable income per year, well above the £1,000 trading allowance yet many never consider the gifted products as income at all, since no cash changes hands for those items. Whatnot presents an entirely different challenge. Sellers disposing of a personal trading card or Gold/Silver coin collection may fall under Capital Gains Tax rules, but anyone buying and selling regularly could instead be treated as running a trading business, bringing income tax and National Insurance into play. Example: A seller who flips 100 Pokémon cards a month is likely to be treated as a trader by HMRC, meaning income tax and National Insurance rather than the lower CGT rates, a distinction that can cost thousands. Vinted and Depop are creating another common misconception. Many people still believe selling unwanted clothes is automatically tax free. However, platforms have been required to report seller information to HMRC since January 2024 under UK digital platform reporting rules. While casual sellers clearing out personal possessions usually have nothing to worry about, those regularly buying items to resell or operating at a commercial level may have tax obligations they hadn't anticipated. eAccounts says that sellers in this fast-growing space often cross the £90,000 VAT threshold quickly and need to choose the right VAT scheme early, while those earning above £50,270 alongside a full-time job could lose 40% of additional income to tax, making a limited company structure, making a limited company structure worth considering for the tax efficiency it can offer. Kris Corbisiero, eAccounts Co-Founder said: "Five years ago, most people selling online were using eBay or Amazon. Today, people are earning money through TikTok Shop, Vinted, Whatnot, Depop and dozens of other platforms, each with completely different rules." "The problem is that the technology has evolved much faster than most people's understanding of tax. We regularly speak to sellers who genuinely believed they were just making a bit of extra money, only to discover they've unknowingly created tax obligations they never expected." "Most people don't deliberately get it wrong. They simply don't realise that receiving free products, earning affiliate commission or regularly reselling goods can all have different tax consequences. The sooner sellers understand those rules, the easier and cheaper they are to manage." eAccounts works with sellers across these emerging platforms to get ahead of these issues before they become problems. From registering for VAT at the right time and choosing the most efficient business structure, to making sure gifted stock, affiliate income and platform reporting are all declared correctly, the eAccounts team will take care of everything - and avoid nasty surprises down the line. For more information, visit: https://www.e-accounts.co.uk https://www.e-accounts.co.uk/ecommerce-accountants/
Albright College Named an Education College of Distinction
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 05:40 EDT
Teaching has never been a simple profession, but today's educators face a classroom shaped by more complexity than ever: shifting curricula, diverse learning needs, evolving technology and communities that need teachers who are both skilled and resilient. Colleges of Distinction has named Albright College a 2026-2027 Education College of Distinction, recognizing an undergraduate teacher preparation program that meets the moment. "As Berks County's oldest institution of higher learning, we take our role in preparing the teachers who will lead this community's classrooms seriously," Albright President Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D., said. "Our education students spend real time in real classrooms, in urban, suburban and rural districts, long before they ever have one of their own. That's what makes them ready on day one." "The teacher shortage can be attributed to a variety of factors, but whether teachers are adequately prepared for this profession is chief among them," said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. "When new teachers feel underprepared, they leave. Albright College addresses that directly, sending graduates into classrooms with the confidence, competence and support systems they need to thrive." Albright's teacher preparation program has prepared educators for Berks County classrooms and beyond for decades, maintaining Pennsylvania Department of Education approval through its most recent major review in 2020. Beginning early in their coursework, education majors gain classroom experience across urban, suburban, and rural districts throughout Berks County, culminating in a full student-teaching placement. Education students pair their teacher certification with a combined major in their content area, ensuring depth of subject-matter knowledge alongside pedagogical training. Education majors receive specialized program advising, access to Albright's Student Success Center, and ongoing partnerships with school districts throughout Berks County, which give them regular exposure to mentor teachers, administrators, and future employers. "Albright graduates are ready to know their students," Schritter added. "The empathy, adaptability and classroom readiness cultivated in this program will echo through every student they teach." To learn more about Albright's education programs, visit, https://www.albright.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs or CollegesofDistinction.com . About Albright Albright College, founded in 1856, is Berks County's oldest institution of higher learning. Located on a 118-acre suburban campus in Reading, Pa., Albright offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a distinctive interdisciplinary focus, including a flexible co-major program that empowers students to build a truly personalized academic experience. The College's mission is to equip students to live their best lives, now and in the future, while serving the broader community through educational outreach and meaningful partnerships. Learn more at albright.edu. About Colleges of Distinction Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been a trusted resource for identifying excellence in higher education. The platform honors schools that prioritize the student experience through engaged learning, expert teaching, vibrant community spaces and successful post-graduate outcomes. Its website provides specialized tools, insights and search filters to help students find the ideal campus fit. Learn more at CollegesofDistinction.com.
Rising Warehouse Rates Put Pressure on Operators to Make Better Use of Existing Space
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 04:51 EDT
Warehouse operators across the Midlands are facing another unwelcome rise in overheads, with business rates and other property costs putting fresh pressure on already tight margins. Data from the UK Warehousing Association shows that rates bills have risen by an average of 9% this year. Almost one in four sites reported rises of more than 20%, adding another significant cost for businesses already dealing with higher wages, energy bills and transport costs. For operators working with large amounts of floor space, the figures are likely to prompt a closer look at how efficiently that space is being used. Expanding into a larger unit might once have been the obvious answer to growing volumes, but higher fixed costs make that decision considerably harder to justify. Instead, businesses are increasingly looking at what can be done within the warehouse they already have. That can mean reviewing storage layouts, reducing unnecessary movement and making sure handling equipment is suited to the work being carried out. For Midlands operators in particular, where logistics and manufacturing remain important parts of the regional economy, relatively straightforward changes can make a difference. A pallet truck , stacker truck or lift table that is the right size and capacity for a particular application, for example, can make routine movement of goods easier without requiring major investment in new infrastructure. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Kingswinford-based Midland Pallet Trucks, said that the current climate is making operators more conscious of the value already inside their warehouses. "People are understandably cautious about taking on more space when the cost of running the space they already have is going up. It makes sense to look at the basics first - how goods are moved, where equipment is being used and whether the layout is helping or getting in the way." He added, "There is often more capacity in an existing warehouse than people realise. That does not necessarily mean squeezing more stock into every available corner. It can be as simple as making better use of the space, cutting unnecessary journeys and having equipment that does the job properly." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
SGS hosts webinar on Carbon-14 testing and biobased product certification
Thu, Aug 27, 2026 04:39 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is hosting a webinar, 'From Carbon-14 testing to SGS green mark biobased certification: the path to verified biobased products' on September 15, 2026. As interest in products containing biobased materials continues to grow, manufacturers and brand owners are facing increasing scrutiny over how biobased content is measured, verified and communicated. At the same time, evolving standards and regulatory expectations are driving demand for transparent, scientifically robust approaches to substantiating biobased content. During the webinar, SGS experts will discuss key developments in the biobased products market and explain how Carbon-14 testing is used to determine the percentage of biobased carbon in a product. Attendees will gain insight into the role of scientific testing in supporting the verification of biobased content across a wide range of industries. The session will also introduce SGS Biobased green mark certification, which incorporates the independent assessment of biobased content against defined program requirements. Participants will learn how certification can support the communication of biobased material content using verified data and demonstrate conformity with relevant certification criteria. Real-world examples from multiple industry sectors will illustrate how these approaches are being applied in practice. The webinar will conclude with a Q&A session, allowing attendees to discuss specific challenges and questions with SGS specialists. This webinar is designed for R&D teams, brand owners, sustainability leaders and quality and compliance professionals involved in developing, verifying, certifying or marketing biobased products, including packaging, plastics, household cleaning products, cosmetics, apparel and textiles, construction materials, food packaging and other consumer and industrial materials. The webinar will be offered in two sessions: Session 1 (Chinese): 10:00 AM (CEST)/4:00 PM (CST)/4:00 AM (EDT) Session 2 (English): 4:00 PM (CEST)/10:00 PM (CST)/10:00 AM (EDT) Stakeholders are encouraged to register now for the Chinese session or English session to ensure access to this informative webinar.
