Tucson Federal Credit Union's Back-to-School Drive Is Underway
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 12:22 EDT
Tucson Federal Credit Union (TFCU) is once again helping Tucson kids start the school year fresh and in style and the clock is ticking to give. TFCU's 2026 Back-to-School Supplies and Haircut Drive launched June 16 and runs through July 15, giving the community just a few more days to contribute. In partnership with Headliners Barber Shop, TFCU is offering free back-to-school haircuts for youth in need at a special event on Wednesday, July 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Tucson Mall (4500 N Oracle Rd). This year, the drive has expanded to every TFCU branch across Tucson, with donation boxes collecting new school supplies and monetary contributions through July 15. Both members and non-members are welcome to give: donors can drop off a cash donation in person at any branch, and members may also ask a branch representative to transfer funds directly from their account into a special holding account established for the drive. All donations must be made in person at a branch location. Vouchers for the free haircuts will be distributed in collaboration with a local youth-serving nonprofit organization (to be announced), ensuring these back-to-school boosts reach the families who need them most. "TFCU's commitment to education and opportunity began with our founding in the basement of Tucson High School in 1937, and it continues today through efforts like this Back-to-School Drive," said Matthew Gaspari, TFCU President and CEO. "A fresh haircut and new school supplies can help a child walk into the first day of school with confidence. We are grateful to our members, community partners, and branch teams for helping make this possible, and we encourage anyone who can give to do so before the July 15 deadline." The event is part of TFCU's broader Back-to-School Week initiative, with more family-friendly events planned across Tucson in the days surrounding July 29 (details to be released soon). How to Help: ● Drop off new school supplies at any TFCU branch through July 15 ● Members and non-members alike can donate cash in person at any branch ● Members can also ask a branch representative to transfer funds from their account into the drive's special holding account (in person only) ● Follow @TucsonFCU on social media for updates and ways to support
SGS Highlights Performance and Compliance Requirements for Adventure and Demanding Sports Apparel
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 10:45 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a new Consumer Compact article exploring how brands can ensure performance, safety and compliance in adventure and demanding sports apparel. As regulatory and sustainability expectations continue to increase, manufacturers must deliver apparel that provides consistent performance, comfort, durability and safety under real-world conditions. Products designed for activities such as trail running, mountaineering, skiing, cycling, diving and motorsports must withstand demanding environments while meeting relevant safety and chemical requirements. The article examines key performance considerations, including thermal regulation, moisture management, weather protection, mechanical durability, freedom of movement and chemical safety. It also explores how integrated testing and performance validation can help brands evaluate product performance under realistic use conditions, support product claims and strengthen market readiness. In addition, the article features a case study on UV-protective apparel used during the World's Toughest Row - Atlantic race, demonstrating how targeted testing can help verify performance, durability and safety in extreme environments. The article also highlights SGS's testing, verification and compliance solutions, helping brands and manufacturers bring high-performance apparel to market with greater confidence and efficiency. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to learn more about performance validation, compliance requirements and how SGS can support the development of adventure and demanding sports apparel. For further information, please contact: Karen He Senior Technical Services Manager Global Softlines Tel: +852 2334 4481
SGS Answers Key Questions on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 10:30 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a new Consumer Compact article addressing frequently asked questions about the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). As PPWR introduces significant new requirements for packaging design, testing, labeling, recyclability and documentation, businesses placing packaged products on the EU market must prepare for a range of compliance obligations and upcoming deadlines. The article provides practical guidance on key topics, including compliance responsibilities, packaging scope, PFAS and chemical testing requirements, documentation obligations, labeling and traceability requirements, recyclability targets and packaging design considerations. It also outlines important compliance timelines and the steps businesses should take now to prepare for compliance. In addition, the article highlights SGS's packaging testing, inspection and certification solutions, helping manufacturers and suppliers navigate regulatory requirements and support compliance across primary, secondary and transport packaging. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to better understand PPWR requirements and discover how SGS can support their packaging compliance journey. IMPACT NOW IMPACT NOW for sustainability consolidates all SGS's sustainability offerings under four strategic pillars: climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity. Through these pillars, SGS offers trusted compliance solutions that directly help businesses address the key environmental and social challenges impacting the planet. Find out more at www.sgs.com/impactnow For further information, please contact: Birkoff Chen Product Manager, Sustainability and Packaging Global Hardlines Tel: +86 (757) 2280 5851
Firney Wins AI Innovator of the Year at the 2026 Greater London Business Awards
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 09:24 EDT
Firney, the London-based engineering for marketing company, has been named AI Innovator of the Year at the 2026 Greater London Business Awards . The award recognises Firney's winning approach to building digital experiences: combining engineering precision with marketing insight to create websites and conversational tools that adapt to each visitor in real time. Rather than treating AI as an add-on, Firney builds it into the foundations of a brand's digital presence - helping clients personalise customer journeys, anticipate intent and deliver more relevant recommendations at every touchpoint. A recent project with Direct Ferries shows what that looks like in practice. Facing a sharp rise in customer enquiries, at one point surpassing 7,000 queries in a single month, Direct Ferries needed a better way to help customers navigate often complicated questions about routes, vehicles, pets and passenger types across thousands of ferry crossings. Firney's response was a conversational booking assistant, built and deployed within 15 weeks, that now handles hundreds of common travel queries in plain English and gives Direct Ferries ongoing insight into where customers hesitate during booking. "Our goal was to make booking a ferry as simple as having a conversation," said Richard Kozma, Head of Data Science at Direct Ferries. "Customers want clear answers quickly, and this approach helps remove that uncertainty." It's the kind of outcome Firney has built its reputation on: taking something genuinely complex for the customer and making it feel effortless. Marc Firth, CEO and Co-founder of Firney, said the recognition reflects years of work bridging the gap between creative ambition and technical delivery. "We started Firney because we kept seeing brilliant campaigns let down by the technology underneath them," said Firth. "This award means a lot because it recognises something we've believed from day one: AI only earns its place if it makes people's lives easier. "Whether that's a retailer, a financial brand or a travel company like Direct Ferries, the question we ask is always the same: does this make the experience simpler for the person on the other end? That's what customers want, it's what we're building, and it's what we'll keep pushing for." Firney continues to work with B2C brands across sectors including travel, retail and financial services, building websites and conversational tools designed to reduce friction and personalise the customer journey at scale. For more information, please visit https://www.firney.com .
2026 AMA Summer Academic Conference Comes to Denver
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 08:42 EDT
2026 AMA Summer Academic Conference Comes to Denver AMA's 2026 Summer Academic Conference will Focus on Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership Join us July 24-26, 2026 in Denver, Colorado Chicago, IL- The American Marketing Association (AMA) will host the 2026 Summer Academic Conference on July 24-26 in Denver, Colorado. The 2026 conference theme-Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership. The 2026 Summer Academic Conference recognizes that professional growth happens across multiple dimensions, and every stage of the academic journey matters. The 2026 conference brings together marketing doctoral students, clinical faculty, experienced professors, and marketing professionals to navigate the evolving academic landscape. Attendees will collaborate through curated workshops, panels, and research presentations designed to fuel careers and build networks at every stage of their academic and professional journeys. 2026 Topics Analyzing how AI is changing marketing theory, classroom dynamics, and consumer behavior. Examining how marketing systems and corporate social responsibility intersect with global challenges like climate change, sustainability, and equity. Equipping early-career scholars and doctoral students with strategies for navigating the tenure process, job market readiness, and institutional leadership. Dates and Location July 20, 2026 - Virtual; July 24 - 26, 2026 - In-person Hilton Denver City Center - 1701 California St., Denver, CO 80202 To secure your conference pass and book accommodations, visit the AMA event page . Session Highlights The AMA will host several enriching sessions: Meet the AMA Legends: A dynamic session offering attendees access to some of the field's most distinguished scholars. Teaching AI with AI: Hands on session focusing on prompt engineering, classroom guardrails, and turning artificial intelligence into practical assignments. Scholarly Impact - From Idea to Contribution: A developmental workshop tailored for early-career scholars. Agenda and full list of speakers is available here . ###
New Packaging Waste Rules Set to Create Extra Work for UK Warehouses
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 04:56 EDT
Warehouses and distribution centres across the UK are being warned to prepare for a significant rise in sorting and handling work, as a wave of new packaging waste regulations begins to reshape how goods are stored, processed and dispatched. Over the coming years, businesses will need to adapt to several major reforms. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging is shifting financial responsibility for the full lifecycle of packaging onto the producers who place it on the market, while the Simpler Recycling reforms will require businesses and households to separate recyclable materials in a more consistent way than before. In parts of the UK, Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) are also being introduced, adding a further layer of material segregation to existing processes. Alongside these specific measures, there is continued regulatory and commercial pressure on companies to reduce overall packaging waste and improve recyclability. Taken together, industry experts say these changes amount to a fundamental rethink of packaging design, storage and handling for manufacturers and distributors alike. Materials that could once be bundled together for disposal must now often be separated by type before they leave site, and packaging formats are increasingly being chosen with end-of-life recyclability in mind rather than purely for cost or convenience. According to Pallet Trucks UK, one of the most immediate effects is a rise in manual handling activity within warehouses. More separation of materials, more frequent repackaging, and increased movement of partially unpacked goods are all contributing to additional workload for warehouse teams. These changes are particularly noticeable in fulfilment centres and distribution hubs where products are being re-sorted, re-baled or repacked before final dispatch. In many cases, this means more frequent pallet movements, tighter storage rotations and a greater reliance on robust handling equipment - such as pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables - to keep operations moving efficiently. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said the practical impact of the reforms should not be underestimated. "These regulations are the right direction of travel for the environment, but they do have real consequences on the warehouse floor," he said. "Businesses are now having to build in extra sorting and handling steps that simply didn't exist before, and that means more manual movement of materials at every stage. "We're seeing operators reassess their equipment needs because the volume and frequency of internal transport has increased, even if overall stock levels haven't changed. It's not just about compliance on paper: it's about making sure the operational side can actually keep pace." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
Nicor Gas Recognized as District Partner by Brookwood School District 167
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 10:39 EDT
This week, Nicor Gas was honored to be recognized by Brookwood School District 167 as a District Partner, highlighting a collaborative relationship focused on supporting students, families and the broader community through educational outreach and community-centered initiatives. At Nicor Gas, we believe strong partnerships are essential to building stronger communities. Our ongoing collaboration with Brookwood District 167 reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and providing resources that help students and families succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Through partnerships with schools, local organizations and community leaders, Nicor Gas has worked to connect residents with important basic needs resources, support educational programs and contribute to initiatives that promote the well-being of local families. "This recognition reflects our sincere appreciation for your continued commitment to our students, families, and schools," Bethany Lindsay, superintendent of Brookwood School District 167 shared with the Nicor Gas team. "Partnerships like yours help strengthen our educational community by providing meaningful opportunities and resources that extend beyond the classroom. Your support demonstrates a genuine investment in the success and well-being of the Brookwood 167 community, and we are truly grateful." Nicor Gas is grateful to the Brookwood District 167 Board of Education and the entire school community for the recognition. We are proud to work alongside dedicated educators and community leaders who are making a positive difference for students and families every day. As we continue serving communities across Northern Illinois, Nicor Gas remains committed to investing in partnerships that help create lasting impact and support the success of the neighborhoods we serve.
Venezuela Earthquakes Expose Need for Stronger Disaster Preparedness and Resilience
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 10:31 EDT
KINETIC7 CLEAN-ENERGY TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPED TO SUPPORT GLOBAL DISASTER RECOVERY HYDROGEN-ON-DEMAND PORTABLE SYSTEMS DESIGNED TO SUPPORT EMERGENCY COOKING AND HEATING WHEN NATURAL DISASTERS DISRUPT CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE ABU DHABI, 15 July 2026 - The recent earthquakes in Venezuela, which struck in quick succession and devastated the north of the country, killing 3,500 people, injuring 16,740 and displacing 17,854, have exposed a serious gap in disaster preparedness and response. The two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale, were Venezuela's deadliest and most destructive since 1900. The disaster has prompted experts to question the wider preparedness and resilience of governments and federal disaster-management agencies in the immediate aftermath of major events. Against that backdrop, Abu Dhabi-based deep-tech company Kinetic7 Technologies has developed clean-energy technology designed to help countries recover after earthquakes, floods, tsunamis and other natural disasters. Founded by Australian entrepreneur and philanthropist Rick Parish, Kinetic7 says its hydrogen-on-demand technology could play a vital humanitarian role in disaster-management recovery by providing portable clean energy platforms for cooking and heating where infrastructure has failed. The company's proprietary technology and system produces hydrogen gas on demand as a clean energy source for cooking and heating. Delivered through two portable cooking stoves, Tribe™️ and Nomad™️, the technology can be rapidly deployed into disaster zones when critical infrastructure is disrupted. Kinetic7 is positioning the technology as a deployable clean-energy solution for evacuation centres, field kitchens, emergency-services staging areas, isolated communities and humanitarian relief hubs. The company says its portable cook stoves can support preparedness and response planning in regions exposed to major disaster risks. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, with operations across Europe, London, Australia and the United States, Kinetic7 uses water, solar power and battery energy to generate hydrogen gas at the point of use. The company says this reduces reliance on gas cylinders, fixed pipelines, fuel deliveries or centralised infrastructure that can be damaged or cut off after earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, volcanic activity, landslides and extreme weather. Alongside Tribe™ and Nomad™, Parish has developed what Kinetic7 describes as the world's first Carbon Free Kitchen, a modular shipping-container system designed to provide large-scale carbon-free cooking using clean hydrogen gas on demand. The company says the portable kitchen could support mass feeding in evacuation centres, temporary communities and disaster-relief hubs after earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides, storms and other emergencies. Recent disasters underline the scale of the global challenge. Humanitarian agencies continue to monitor earthquakes, floods, landslides, storms, epidemics and other emergencies worldwide, while the World Risk Index assesses disaster risk across 193 countries by combining exposure to natural hazards with vulnerability and response capacity. Countries ranked among the world's highest disaster-risk nations include the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Colombia, United States, Mexico, Myanmar, Mozambique, Russia, China and Pakistan. Many face recurring exposure to earthquakes, tsunamis, tropical storms, flooding, landslides, drought and other extreme natural events, alongside infrastructure, geography and population-pressure challenges that can make recovery harder. Kinetic7 says these risks highlight the need for energy systems that can move quickly, operate off-grid and support essential services when roads, bridges, ports, power networks, water systems and fuel supply chains are disrupted. In high-risk regions, rapid access to clean cooking and heating can be an important part of preparedness, response and recovery planning. Parish said access to hot food, safe cooking and basic heating can be critical to health, dignity and resilience in the first hours and weeks after a major emergency. "Every major disaster reminds us that communities can be left without power, gas, clean water, transport access and reliable supply chains," he said. "Hydrogen-on-demand can provide a safe, practical and rapidly deployable answer for emergency cooking and heating because the gas is created only when needed, at the point of use. We do not need to store hydrogen gas or move large cylinders through damaged roads, ports or infrastructure." Parish added, "At Kinetic7, we re-engineered the process using proprietary technology to produce hydrogen-on-demand safely and locally. We believe it can support emergency shelters, disaster-relief agencies, first responders and isolated communities after earthquakes, floods, tsunamis and other disasters." Kinetic7 technology was previewed at the 2024 Paris Summit on Clean Cooking in Africa, hosted by the International Energy Agency at UNESCO headquarters. It was also demonstrated at the Four Seasons Hotel in Paris, where executive chef Simone Zanoni used the portable Nomad™ stove to cook a carbon-free meal using Kinetic7's Hydrogen-On-Demand™ technology. Kinetic7 is also developing HODbox™, a standalone plug-and-play hydrogen-on-demand unit for resilient off-grid energy supply in homes, community facilities, commercial kitchens and emergency shelters. Parish said generating clean cooking and heating energy locally could provide a lifeline where earthquakes, flooding, damaged roads, broken bridges, disrupted ports or island geography isolate communities from normal utilities and services. Parish's mission was shaped by personal tragedy and humanitarian work. Following the death of his four-year-old son, Elliot, from brain cancer, Parish says his work in Africa showed him how many families still cook on primitive wood-burning stoves, exposing women and children to household air pollution while contributing to deforestation and climate impact. "With Kinetic7, we have developed a clean, carbon-free hydrogen-on-demand energy solution for humanitarian and disaster-management needs," Parish said. "In disaster-prone regions, resilience depends on practical systems that can keep working when central infrastructure fails. Our aim is to help communities cook, heat and recover with dignity while reducing reliance on carbon-based fuels and vulnerable supply chains." Kinetic7 says it is seeking to work with public authorities, disaster-management organisations, NGOs and humanitarian partners to explore deployment as part of wider preparedness, resilience and recovery planning.
Summerfield colleagues celebrate half a century of service
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 09:55 EDT
Two dedicated members of Summerfield Homes ' After Sales team are celebrating a combined 50 years of service, marking an extradentary milestone for the Taunton-based, family-run developer. Build Quality and After Sales Manager Jim Wheeler and After Sales Supervisor Ian Cassling have dedicated five decades helping homeowners across the South West, ensuring customers continue to receive exceptional support long after they move into their new homes. For Jim, the milestone marks more than 40 years with the wider Summerfield business. He first joined as an apprentice with Stansell Builders, which later became the development arm of Summerfield, arriving at the company's South Road headquarters with his parents to sign his apprenticeship papers - a tradition at the time. Starting as a labourer, Jim went on to qualify as a painter and decorator before returning to college to gain management qualifications. One of the highlights of his career was overseeing the construction of a block of flats in Teignmouth, a project the company was so proud of that it arranged for colleagues to travel together to see the completed development. Jim joined Summerfield Homes in 2001 and now leads the Build Quality and After Sales team. Outside work, he enjoys spending time with his six grandchildren. Ian has also built a long and successful career with Summerfield Homes. Joining the business in 2001 as a labourer and has steadily worked his way through the company to become After Sales Supervisor. In his role he works closely with homeowners, resolving any issues and ensuring every customer enjoys the best possible experience in their new homes. For Ian, helping customers is what makes the role so rewarding. "Every day is different, I enjoy the challenge that comes with the role," he said. "The best part is knowing you've solved a problem and left a customer happy. That feeling of achievement never gets old." Jim added: "I've seen the business grow and evolve over the years, but one thing has always stayed the same - our commitment to quality and looking after our customers. I'm proud to have been part of that journey." James Holyday, Managing Director of Summerfield Homes, said: "Jim and Ian have made an outstanding contribution to Summerfield over many years. Their knowledge, dedication and commitment to delivering excellent customer service are invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they have done. Reaching a combined 50 years of service is a fantastic achievement and one we are delighted to celebrate." As a long-established family business, Summerfield believes its people are at the heart of its success, with the long service of colleagues such as Jim and Ian reflecting the company's commitment to quality, continuity and customer care.
The American Marketing Association Welcomes New Members to the Board of Directors
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 08:42 EDT
The American Marketing Association Welcomes New Members to the Board of Directors AMA Welcomes New Board Chair Tiffany White, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Professor of Business Administration and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) is pleased to announce new members for the 2027 Board of Directors term. The AMA Board of Directors is made up of volunteer leaders and impactful marketing visionaries who are providing insight and guidance to create the essential community for marketers. The new Board appointments are effective July 1, 2026. More information about AMA's Board of Directors is here . "It's a pleasure to officially welcome our new members of the AMA Board of Directors who are bringing diverse insights and knowledge. I look forward to working with our fellow colleagues to create impact for our global marketing community," said Bennie F. Johnson, AMA's Chief Executive Officer . "I also want to thank our outgoing Board members for their incredible leadership, dedication, and service to AMA. They are extraordinary leaders in our community and we are thankful for their service to not only AMA but the marketing profession." "I'm excited for the chance to work with my fellow AMA Board members as we focus on shaping the future of marketing and supporting our amazing community," said Tiffany White, Board Chair, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Professor of Business Administration and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois. "It was an honor to serve the AMA as Board Chair during the last year. The AMA Board of Directors is focused on the future and is continually finding innovative ways to support our community," stated Robins Tooms, Chief Marketing Officer at Firstmark Credit Union. Executive Committee of the AMA Board: Tiffany White - Chair, Professor of Business Administration and Advertising and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow in the Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Robin Tooms - Immediate Past Chair, Chief Marketing Officer, Members Choice Credit Union Peter Barber - Chair-Elect, Former Marketing Executive Kim Whitler - Secretary, Frank M. Sands Sr. Associate Professor of Business, University of Virginia's Darden School of Business Michael Day , Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, Spark Foundry and Chief Financial Officer, Connect at Publicis Media The AMA intentionally structures its board as a community of communities, reflecting the diverse landscape of the marketing profession. By bringing together leaders from both industry and academia-across a wide range of sectors and disciplines-AMA ensures that its strategic direction is informed by a rich blend of perspectives, expertise, and experiences. This inclusive approach strengthens AMA's ability to serve as the essential community for all marketers, fostering collaboration, advancing thought leadership, and shaping the future of the field. New members of the AMA Board: Joseph A. Brennan , At-Large Member, Vice President, Communications and Marketing, Montclair State University Rajesh Chandy , At-Large Member, Professor of Marketing and the Tony and Maureen Wheeler Chair in Entrepreneurship, London Business School Tom Dawson , At-Large Member, CFO, Flywheel (an Omnicom Company) Michael Day , Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, Spark Foundry and Chief Financial Officer, Connect at Publicis Media Lori Janson , At-Large Member, Director of Project Communications & External Affairs for the JGC Fluor Joint Venture (JFJV) on the LNG Canada Project Aric Rindfleisch , Chair of the AMA Foundation, John M. Jones Professor of Marketing and Executive Director of Illinois MakerLab, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Gies College of Business Kim Whitler , Secretary, Frank M. Sands Sr. Associate Professor of Business, University of Virginia's Darden School of Business Continuing members of the AMA Board: Peter Barber , Secretary, Former Marketing Executive Andrea Dixon , At-Large Member, Executive Director, Center for Professional Selling, Frank and Floy Smith Holloway Professor of Marketing, Hankamer School of Business, Baylor University John Kennedy , At-Large Member, Managing Partner, The Sorium Group Nadya Kohl , At-Large Member, Former Chief Marketing Officer, Volta Charging Maura Scott , At-Large Member, Professor of Marketing and the Edward M. Carson Chair in Services Marketing at the W. P. Carey School of Business, at Arizona State University Shrihari Sridhar , At-Large Member, Senior Associate Dean of Mays Business School, Professor of Marketing and Joe Foster '56 Chair in Business Leadership Robin Tooms , Immediate Past Chair, Chief Marketing Officer at Firstmark Credit Union Tiffany White , Chair, Professor of Business Administration and Advertising and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow in the Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Karen Winterich , At-Large Member, Gerald I. Susman Professor in Sustainability and Professor of Marketing, Smeal College of Business, Penn State University Departing members of the AMA Board include: Hami Vo Arrington , Founder, One Foot Over Mike Brady , The Rockwood Professor of Marketing and Assistant Provost, Rockwood School of Marketing, Florida State University Angela Brutsche , Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Texas REALTORS® Eli Jones , Professor of Marketing, Mays Business Schools, Texas A&M University Jeff Lupinacci , Chief Financial Officer, Real Chemistry Christine Mathers , Head of Global Communications and Brand for Noble Corporation Matt Witt , National Digital Experience Lead, Deloitte Digital ###
Luxury Occasionwear Brand Grande Luxe Collection Opens Pop-Up on Fulham Road
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 06:01 EDT
Grande Luxe Collection, the luxury occasionwear label known for its exclusive, beautifully crafted eveningwear, has opened a pop-up boutique on Fulham Road in South Kensington - giving local shoppers the chance to experience the brand's collections in person for the first time. The brand has built a loyal following online for its gowns and statement dresses designed for weddings, galas, race days and other memorable occasions. For founder Sandra Morayo Eniade, bringing the collection to a physical space was a natural next step. "The pop-up is an exciting milestone for Grande Luxe Collection and gives customers the opportunity to experience our collections in person," she said. "Occasionwear is a category where women often want to see the quality of the fabrics, try on different silhouettes and receive styling advice before making a purchase. Fulham Road, in the heart of South Kensington, was the perfect location." Inside the boutique, shoppers can browse the current collection in a relaxed setting and receive one-to-one styling advice - something that truly the experience apart from buying occasionwear online or on the high street. "Visitors can experience the quality, craftsmanship and fit of each garment first-hand," she explained. "Compared with many high street retailers, we offer a more curated collection of distinctive statement pieces designed for life's most memorable occasions." The pop-up showcases a range of embellished evening gowns, one-shoulder statement dresses and sophisticated black eveningwear, alongside bolder pieces in rich jewel tones and classic monochrome - all without the price tag typically attached to designer fashion. "We believe women shouldn't have to compromise between quality, style and affordability," Eniade added. "Our collections focus on timeless designs that can be worn confidently across multiple special occasions, rather than just for one event." To complete the month-long event, an exclusive pop-up day will additionally run on Sunday 02 August, with 25% off the entire Grande Luxe Collection for one day only. With the Fulham Road pop-up now open, the brand is looking forward to welcome new customers through its doors as it explores the possibility of further pop-ups, collaborations and appearances at fashion and lifestyle events. For more information, please visit https://www.grandeluxecollection.com .
Adventure Calling: The Sharp Rise in Demand for Amazon River Expeditions
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:52 EDT
A year ago, a typical client call with Voyagers Travel might have focused on Patagonia, or perhaps a Galápagos cruise. Lately, though, another destination keeps coming up first: the Amazon . Not in the old sense, either. Travelers are no longer treating the rainforest as a short extension tagged onto a wider South America trip. According to Voyagers, more people are building entire itineraries around it - sometimes spending more time there than anywhere else. The company says interest in Amazon river expeditions has picked up sharply across Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil, particularly among travelers looking for slower, more immersive journeys centered on wildlife, local communities, and time spent far away from busy tourism hubs. After years of fast-moving itineraries and crowded destinations, many clients seem more interested in depth than quantity. They are asking for experiences that feel harder to replicate - quieter places, smaller boats, fewer people, and guides who know an area personally rather than from a script. The Amazon naturally lends itself to that kind of travel. There is no real predictability to the rainforest. Some days revolve around wildlife sightings; others are shaped entirely by the river itself. A morning excursion can turn into three hours drifting silently through flooded forest while monkeys move overhead and pink dolphins surface beside the boat - then the next day feels completely different again. Voyagers works with a range of expedition vessels and rainforest lodges rather than pushing one specific route or operator. Some journeys focus heavily on biodiversity and naturalist-led exploration, while others lean more toward cultural experiences and time with Indigenous communities. According to the company, travelers are increasingly interested in combining both. The planning process has also become more detailed. Many first-time visitors arrive with a single idea of "the Amazon," only to realize how different one region can feel from another. Water levels, seasonality, wildlife patterns, navigation style, even the atmosphere onboard can vary enormously depending on where travelers go. Marco Sancho, CEO of Voyagers Travel, said, "The Amazon is no longer a niche interest; it has become one of the most requested destinations we work with. Travelers are returning from the Galápagos or Antarctica and asking: 'What's next?' The answer, increasingly, is the Amazon. What draws them is the same thing that makes all great expedition travel meaningful: the sense of being somewhere genuinely wild, with people who understand it intimately." For more information, visit www.voyagers.travel or read the blog: https://www.voyagers.travel/blog/amazon-river-expeditions-are-becoming-the-next-big-journey-for-remote-travel-seekers
Li Auto Earns World-first SGS Premium Performance Mark for Automotive Cellular Communication
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:33 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to announce the first award of the SGS Premium Performance Mark for an automotive cellular communication product. Li Auto's L9 Livis 5G high-performance intelligent cockpit platform was evaluated using SGS's proprietary testing protocol for automotive 5G cockpit communication (PT-26-000-105640). The assessment evaluates product performance across multiple technical dimensions using a structured and rigorous methodology. The SGS Premium Performance Mark focuses on real-world connectivity performance rather than isolated technical parameters, reflecting a more comprehensive approach to evaluating in-vehicle communication capabilities. Connectivity was translated into performance using measurable indicators, providing a structured and consistent approach to assessing real-world user experience, and SGS's independent and rigorous testing demonstrated that the platform exceeded standard thresholds across all four dimensions: Connection stability Bandwidth capacity Weak-signal recovery capability Performance under network congestion for key services Stable connections, efficient data transmission and a responsive user experience distinguished Li Auto's platform, credibly demonstrating validated high performance under real-world conditions. About SGS Premium Performance Mark The Premium Performance Mark recognizes real-world user experience validation, reflecting a shift from purely technical specifications such as peak speed. Based on defined testing protocols and quantifiable criteria, it provides a structured approach to performance evaluation and enables manufacturers to communicate validated product performance in a clear and consistent way. Learn more about SGS Performance Marks . SGS DIGITAL TRUST SGS DIGITAL TRUST is a global framework that strengthens and consolidates SGS' services into a structured and consistent approach to help organizations navigate today's complex digital trust landscape with confidence. Built on proven expertise, SGS DIGITAL TRUST: Across technologies, services and organizations enables customers to build, demonstrate and sustain trust across the digital ecosystem. For further information, contact: Kayleigh Tan Marketing Supervisor, Connectivity, C&P Tel: +86 172 7470 8089 Image: Jeff Zhao, Vice President, China, SGS (center left), presents the SGS Premium Performance Mark to Xiaofei Gou, Vice President, Li Auto (center right)
SGS Consumer Compact Highlights Key Requirements and Business Impacts of EU Battery Regulation
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:24 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a new Consumer Compact article outlining the key requirements and business impacts of the EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542. As the regulation introduces more stringent and harmonized requirements for batteries placed on the EU market, manufacturers, importers and suppliers face increasingly complex compliance obligations across the entire battery life cycle. The article explores the transition from the previous directive to a directly applicable regulation, new sustainability and transparency requirements, industry impacts, battery classifications and the evolving compliance landscape. It also highlights how SGS supports organizations through testing, verification, conformity assessment and regulatory compliance services. With obligations being introduced in phases, understanding the regulation and preparing for future requirements will be critical for maintaining EU market access and reducing compliance risk. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to learn about the requirements of EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542 and discover how SGS can support their battery compliance journey. Riming Wang Chief Scientist on Renewable and Advanced Energy Connectivity and Products Tel: +86 (0)755 25328661 Katy Zheng Business Development Senior Supervisor Connectivity and Products Tel: +86 (0) 755 25328745
bluesign Explores the Impact of the ECGT Directive on Environmental Claims in Textiles and Fashion
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:12 EDT
SGS the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, as published a new Consumer Compact article exploring the EU Directive on Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (ECGT) and its implications for environmental claims in the textiles and fashion industry. As EU Member States implement the ECGT Directive, organizations will face stricter requirements governing how environmental and sustainability claims are communicated to consumers. The Directive's requirements will apply from September 27, 2026, marking a significant shift toward greater transparency, substantiation and accountability in consumer-facing communications. The article explains the purpose of the ECGT Directive and its impact on environmental claims, certification schemes and clothing labeling programs. It also explores the new bluepass labeling system and how it differs from the previous bluesign® APPROVED and bluesign® PRODUCT designations. In addition, the article discusses how bluesign®, an SGS company, is aligning its labeling and certification framework with the ECGT Directive, including enhanced governance, verification processes and guidance to support credible and compliant sustainability communications. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to learn more about the ECGT Directive and how bluesign supports transparent, substantiated and compliant environmental claims in the textiles and fashion industry. For further information, please contact: Barbara Oswald Chief Commercial Officer bluesign Tel: +41 71 272 29 90
Subscription Businesses Are Creating New Reverse Logistics Pressures
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 03:56 EDT
Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, says the continued growth of subscription-based retail models is placing increasing pressure on warehouse operations as pauses, cancellations and returns generate a new wave of reverse logistics activity. The UK's subscription economy is maturing rapidly, and with it comes a wave of pauses, cancellations and returns that is putting new pressure on warehouse operations. Recent figures show that UK shoppers now hold 155 million active subscriptions between them, spending an estimated £26 billion a year - yet nearly 10 million of those subscriptions are thought to be unwanted. Incoming rules under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act are also set to make cancellation easier and give shoppers a fresh 14-day cooling-off right whenever a trial converts to a paid plan or a contract auto-renews. For subscription retailers, that points to a steady rise in reverse logistics activity, as paused boxes, returned items and refunded orders flow back through the same warehouses built for outbound growth. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said the subscription model has fundamentally changed how goods move through warehouses. "Subscription brands were built for one-way traffic, and most of their warehouse setups still reflect that. What we're seeing now is a steady build-up of reverse flow: pauses, part-returns, swapped items, refunded boxes, all needing to be moved, checked and put away again. "That's a very different pattern of handling to sending out a full pallet of new orders, and it tends to happen in awkward, irregular bursts rather than a predictable rhythm." Without reliable pallet trucks , stackers and table trucks , small disruptions quickly add up and slow down the entire operation. Subscription models are here to stay, but they come with operational consequences that are often underestimated. The more flexible the customer experience becomes, the more movement there is behind the scenes - and warehouses need to be equipped to handle that constant change efficiently. To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
ScribeEMR Showcases AI Scribing and Virtual Coding Advances at FACHC Conference
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 11:31 EDT
ScribeEMR , a leading provider of AI-powered healthcare documentation solutions, virtual scribing, coding and medical office services, as well as revenue cycle management (RCM), will exhibit at the Florida Association of Community Health Centers Annual Conference (FACHC) in Tampa, Florida at the JW Marriott, July 19-22. (Booth 402). The primary mission of FACHC is to enhance access to comprehensive, high-quality services by bringing together agencies, legislators, and key stakeholders who can positively impact healthcare services. "ScribeEMR provides virtual medical documentation and coding solutions to community health centers that maximize reimbursement and reduce physician burnout so healthcare providers to treat more patients during their workday," says ScribeEMR Senior Vice President Terry Ciesla. "We partner with dozens of community health centers, in Florida and nationwide, to mitigate the increasing challenges of clinical documentation, revenue cycle management, denials and maximizing workflows." ScribeEMR offers community health centers a range of clinical documentation options, including professional virtual scribes, ScribeRyte AI ambient documentation and ScribeRyte AI Plus, which combines AI-generated documentation with professional scribe review and support. These flexible service models allow each organization to select the level of technology and human support that best fits its providers, specialties and workflows. CodeEMR, ScribeEMR's medical coding subsidiary, provides the specialty medical coding services needed to address the challenges and requirements faced by community health centers. "CHC medical coding compliance and reimbursement is becoming even more important as a best practice," says Vice President of Coding Business Development Paul Ferrazza. "Our deep expertise in CHC and FQHC medical coding has made a significant difference for healthcare centers providing care to underserved areas." About FACHC Since 1981, the Florida Association of Community Health Centers, Inc. (FACHC) has been the leading state advocate for community-based healthcare programs. Focusing on Florida's Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), the Association plays a vital role in educating federal, state, and local policymakers about healthcare issues and the role health centers play in Florida's healthcare system. The primary mission of FACHC is to enhance access to comprehensive, high-quality services by bringing together agencies, legislators, and key stakeholders who can positively impact healthcare services.
Why We Watch Financial Health, Not Just Loan Volume
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 11:30 EDT
Support that unlocks freedom means something different once you look past the moment a loan is approved. Capital moved and loans closed are the numbers every lender reports. The question we ask next is what happened to the businesses on the other side of it - because in a year when lending across the field has grown more selective, that's the question that actually matters. Beyond the origination number Dollars deployed and loans closed are real measures, and neither is wrong to track. But they were never the actual question. The real test is whether a business is more independent a year after funding than it was the day the loan closed, and volume alone cannot answer that. What counts as ready Financial independence for a small business owner is not the day a loan closes. It's the months afterward: a slow season that stays an inconvenience instead of becoming a crisis, credit that keeps building instead of stalling, an owner who is no longer one bad month from losing what they built. Manny Almonte is one example. His business, Cremosos, now sells in more than 90 retailers across three states - and his credit climbed to 700 with no delinquencies in the time since his loan closed. The tools behind the number We track this using two tools side by side. The first is the FinHealth Score®, a national framework from the Financial Health Network that looks at spending, saving, borrowing, and planning together rather than any single figure. The second is our own Ascendus Borrower Index (ABI), which follows a client's trajectory for years after a loan closes, not just at approval. Nationally, only about 30 percent of Americans are considered financially healthy (Financial Health Network, 2026). For the small business owners we serve, closing that gap is the actual work. Coaching isn't an add-on Capital without coaching is a transaction. Capital with coaching is a trajectory. A loan can solve a cash need in the moment, but it doesn't teach an owner to separate business from personal finances, build credit on purpose, or plan for a slower month before one arrives. That work happens in the coaching relationship that runs alongside the loan, not after it. A borrower who repays on time but never improves the habits that led to the cash crunch hasn't become more independent. They've just borrowed their way through one cycle of it. The case for our partners For funders and partners, this is the case for selective, relationship-driven lending: capital paired with coaching, measured over years, not just at closing. A dollar deployed through a model built around financial health does more than fund one transaction. It funds the habits, the credit history, and the coaching relationship that make the next loan, if there is one, less necessary rather than more likely. That's what support that unlocks freedom means from where our partners sit: not simply funding more, but funding businesses that don't need to come back in crisis. Trusted sources On the research behind how financial health is measured nationally: Financial Health Network On how Ascendus applies financial health measurement at the portfolio level: From Inclusion to Ascension: Why Measuring Financial Health Is Our Compass On the full model behind the FinHealth Score and ABI, stage by stage: The Path to Ascension: The Journey Up
Food Manufacturers Are Holding More Buffer Stock Ahead of Harvest Volatility
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 04:41 EDT
Food processors and manufacturers across the UK are holding significantly more buffer stock this year, as unpredictable harvests and increasingly erratic weather patterns make just-in-time supply chains harder to rely on. A run of unsettled growing seasons, marked by prolonged dry spells followed by sudden heavy rainfall, has left many producers unable to guarantee consistent volumes or delivery windows from their agricultural suppliers. In response, food and drink manufacturers are choosing to build in a safety margin, storing greater quantities of raw ingredients and packaged goods to protect against shortfalls further up the chain. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, these changes translate into more internal movements as pallets are relocated to make room for incoming deliveries, rotated to support stock management or transferred between storage and production areas. "We're hearing the same story from a lot of our customers at the moment," said Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks. "Nobody wants to be caught short if a harvest underperforms or a delivery gets delayed, so sites are holding more stock than they used to as a matter of course. "That's great for resilience, but it does mean the equipment on the ground needs to be up to the job. A stacker or pallet truck that's only ever handled moderate volumes can suddenly find itself working a much harder shift, and that's when breakdowns and bottlenecks start to appear." He added that businesses should look beyond storage capacity when preparing for seasonal fluctuations. As weather patterns continue to influence agricultural production, buffer stock is likely to remain an important part of supply chain planning. For warehouses supporting the food sector, that means preparing not only for higher inventory levels, but also for the extra handling activity that comes with them. "It's easy to focus on where additional stock will go, but it's equally important to think about how that stock will move," Chesworth said. "If warehouses become more congested or handling routes become less efficient, productivity can quickly suffer. Reliable handling equipment, such as high quality pallet trucks , stacker trucks and lift tables , can play an important role in keeping those operations going smoothly." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
STUDY: Union Contractors Deliver Projects Faster and Control Costs Better than Non-Union Contractors
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 17:06 EDT
A new study analyzing Sacramento County public works projects completed between 2018 and 2022 has found that those led by union-signatory prime contractors were completed as much as 22 days faster and were more than ten times better at controlling costs than those led by non-union contractors. The report was authored by Dr. Larissa Petrucci at NorCal Construction Industry Compliance (NCIC) and Alma College Assistant Economics Professor, Dr. Matthew Hinkel. Read the Report, "Union Contractors and Project Management Outcomes: Cost and Timeliness on Sacramento County Public Works Projects" Drawing from publicly available data on public works projects, researchers analyzed a total of 128 projects, including infrastructure, public buildings, and schools. Each project was covered by the state's prevailing wage law. On 75 (or 59%) of projects, the prime contractor on the project was signatory to a collective bargaining agreement (union). The remaining projects were led by non-union prime contractors. Across all projects, the average starting cost was around $6.5 million. The average final cost stood at $6.75 million, and the average time to completion stood at 274 days.
