THE DASH CAM: THINKWARE Announces Halloween Savings on Dash Cams
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 15:50 EDT
THE DASH CAM: THINKWARE , a world-leading dash cam manufacturer, today announced its annual Halloween promotion, offering limited-time savings on select dash cams in the U.S. and Canada. The promotion comes as shorter fall days mean more drivers are spending time on the road after dark. THINKWARE's lineup includes models with high-resolution recording, nighttime imaging and parking surveillance capabilities designed to help drivers capture what happens both on the road and while their vehicles are parked. In the U.S., THINKWARE's Halloween promotion will run October 26 through October 31, with savings across models ranging from the Q200 to its flagship U3000 PRO. U.S. Halloween Sale Highlights (October 26-31) ARC 900 - Sale: $335.99 (MSRP: $419.99): THINKWARE's newest ARC-series model records 4K UHD video from the front camera and 2K QHD video from the rear at up to 60 frames per second. Features include dual Sony STARVIS 2 image sensors, Dual HDR processing, Super Night Vision, built-in ADAS functionality, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and a 3.5-inch IPS LCD display. ARC 700 (microSD card not included) - Sale: $239.99 (MSRP: $309.99): Available exclusively on Amazon, this dual-channel dash cam offers 4K front and 2K rear recording, Super Night Vision 2.0, 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, and support for radar-assisted parking mode. ARC 700 - Sale: $289.98 (MSRP: $329.99): Featuring 4K front and 2K rear recording, the ARC 700 combines high-resolution video capture with advanced parking surveillance capabilities and seamless connectivity. U3000 PRO - Sale: $549.99 (MSRP: $579.99): Available from July 20 to July 26, THINKWARE's flagship model features true 4K front and 2K rear recording, Dual HDR processing, intelligent parking surveillance features, and enhanced nighttime image quality. Additional models included in the U.S. Halloween promotions are the Q200 ($169.99) and U3000 ($499.99) In Canada, THINKWARE's Halloween promotion runs October 23 through October 31, with promotional dates varying by model. Canada Halloween Sale Highlights (October 23-31) ARC 900 - Sale: CAD $549.99 (MSRP: CAD $589.99), Oct. 23-31: A premium ARC-series model featuring 4K UHD front and 2K QHD rear recording, dual Sony STARVIS 2 sensors, Dual HDR processing, Super Night Vision, built-in ADAS functionality, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and a 3.5-inch IPS LCD display. U3000 - Sale: CAD $579.99 (MSRP: CAD $679.99), Oct. 23-31: THINKWARE's premium 4K dash cam featuring Sony STARVIS 2 imaging and advanced parking surveillance capabilities. Q200 - Sale: CAD $249.99 (MSRP: CAD $299.99), Oct. 23-29: A dual-channel dash cam featuring 2K QHD front recording and Full HD rear recording, Super Night Vision, built-in GPS and Wi-Fi, and advanced parking surveillance functionality. Additional Canadian Halloween offers include the F70 PRO (CAD $99.99), ARC 700 No Memory (CAD $359.99), ARC 700 (CAD $399.99), and U3000 PRO (CAD $699.99). "Fall brings earlier sunsets and more time behind the wheel after dark, making visibility and reliable video recording especially important," said a THINKWARE representative. "Our Halloween promotion gives drivers in the U.S. and Canada an opportunity to add another layer of protection to their vehicles as we head into the darker fall and winter driving months." THINKWARE's Halloween promotion will be available through its official sales channels while supplies last. For more information, visit https://thinkwarestore.com/ or THINKWARE's Amazon store. About THINKWARE THINKWARE DASH CAM, a global IT company founded in Korea in 1997, has become a leader in smart car technologies through consistent research and development. Its expertise spans dash cams, electronic maps, navigation, mobile applications, and tablet PCs. With world-class image processing technology and a user-friendly interface, THINKWARE DASH CAM entered the U.S. market in 2014. It now exports its dash cam lines to 17 countries, including the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Japan. THINKWARE has impressed the industry at major global events like CES, SEMA, and The Gadget Show Live, winning the CES Innovation Award of the Year and prestigious honors such as the IF, IDEA, and Red Dot Design Awards.
Snugpak® Launches It's a Wrap at DEMA
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 14:00 EDT
U.K.-made insulated surface layer gives divers warmth between dives and room to change. Snugpak®, manufacturer of clothing and outdoor products distributed exclusively for the North and South American markets by Proforce Equipment, Inc., will launch the new Weezle It's a Wrap at the 2026 DEMA Show® , Nov. 3 - 6, 2026, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Dive retailers, training agencies, resort marketers, and liveaboard operators can see the Wrap firsthand at Booth 617 in the First-Floor Exhibit Hall. Weezle It's a Wrap is an oversized insulated outer layer built for the time divers spend out of the water. Made in the U.K., its long, hooded shape can be worn over clothing for warmth between dives or used as a changing garment on the boat deck, dock, or beach. The Wrap is designed for surface use and complements, rather than replaces, a drysuit undersuit. The Wrap draws on the same proven materials found in Snugpak's Weezle Undersuit line , which debuted at last year's DEMA Show. A Paratex® Light nylon outer is lightweight, highly windproof, water-repellent, and breathable, with a durable water-repellent finish. Inside, Softie® Premier synthetic insulation traps air to help retain warmth even when wet, while a luxurious suede-like Thermal Suede 1 (TS1) polyester lining grabs moisture from the skin for rapid drying without chilling. Weezle It's a Wrap features: Oversized format : room to layer over clothing or change underneath. Long body and adjustable hood: added coverage below the torso and a hood that adjusts around the head. Two-way front zipper: opens from either end, so the Wrap goes on and comes off without pulling it over your head. External side pockets : keep small items close at hand. Internal adjustment : gathers loose fabric and reduces flapping in the wind when worn as an outer layer. Compression sack included: keeps the Wrap compact for travel and dive-bag storage. For dive centers, charter operators, and travel retailers, the Wrap offers a surface-side companion to the Weezle Undersuit range, giving customers a single, packable answer for staying warm from the last ascent to the next giant stride. Weezle It's a Wrap is available in black in three generous sizes: XS-S, MSRP $449; M-L, MSRP $499; and XL-XXL, MSRP $549. The Wrap is available for pre-order now through Proforce Equipment, Snugpak's U.S. distributor. Alongside the Wrap, Snugpak will showcase its award-winning Weezle Undersuit line. Manufactured in the U.K. by Snugpak, Weezle has set the standard in drysuit insulation for more than 25 years and is the only undersuit ever to receive the Design Council Award for Innovation. Each undersuit pairs Softie Premier insulation with a TS1 inner lining and a Paratex Light outer shell, plus integrated ankle stirrups, thumb loops, reinforced shoulder panels to protect against rear-entry dry-zip damage, and a two-way YKK front zipper with an insulated baffle. The range offers three levels of thermal protection for recreational, technical, and commercial divers: Weezle Compact One-Piece Undersuit : the lightest-weight option, suited to warmer water, neoprene drysuits, and divers who run warm. MSRP $449. Weezle Extreme One-Piece Undersuit : a medium-weight undersuit for colder water under tri-laminate drysuits, long a favorite among U.K. and European divers. MSRP $499. Weezle Extreme Plus One-Piece Undersuit : the heaviest insulation, engineered for extremely cold water, long decompression stops, and expedition-level diving. MSRP $549. The insulated Weezle Undersuit Boots round out the system with a sock-style design that extends to just below the knee, eliminating the cold gap between undersuit and sock that is often worsened by boot squeeze at depth. MSRP $119. The DEMA Show is the annual global marketplace for the scuba diving, ocean water sports, and adventure dive travel industries. Owned and produced by DEMA - the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association - the show is the only trade-only event where manufacturers, retailers, training agencies, liveaboard operators, tourism boards, dive resort marketers, and media converge to source products, build partnerships, and grow their businesses. Every attendee is a qualified dive industry professional. Learn more at demashow.com. Find a local dealer here for any of the exciting Snugpak products. All sales inquiries can be directed to snugpak@snugpakusa.com . Stay in the conversation by following us on Facebook , X , Instagram , YouTube , or by visiting the website at www.snugpakusa.com .
Humane Canada Spotlights Latina Leaders in Animal Welfare for Latin American Heritage Month
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 10:45 EDT
New op-ed and live panel highlight the contributions of Latina professionals shaping Canada's animal welfare sector. Humane Canada, the national animal welfare organization, has published a new op-ed spotlighting the contributions of Latina professionals shaping Canada's animal welfare sector, in recognition of Latin American Heritage Month. Written by Natalia Hanson, Events and Education Digital Marketing Specialist at Humane Canada, " We Are Here: Latinas Shaping Animal Welfare in Canada " profiles four women building careers in the field: María José (Jota) Botía, marketing coordinator at Toronto Humane Society; Ester Mora, corporate campaigns manager at World Animal Protection Canada; Dr. Michelle Tuma, veterinarian at Northwest Territories Veterinary Services; and Dr. Bianca Vandresen, Scientific Officer at BC SPCA. The piece details concrete contributions from each subject, including a Toronto Blue Jays partnership that raised over $80,000 for wildfire-displaced animals, advocacy work behind McDonald's Canada's permanent plant-based menu item, a wildfire emergency response that sheltered over 100 animals in the Northwest Territories, and published research addressing barriers faced by Global South scientists in animal welfare research. "When I look at the sector where I've built my career, I notice that we, Latinos, are still few and far between," said Hanson. "This month, I want to highlight four fellow Latinas advancing animal welfare in our country, and to recognize that visibility matters, not because our stories are the same, but because they aren't, and so few people get to hear them." Live Panel Discussion Humane Canada will host a live panel discussion simultaneously on its Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages on Wednesday, October 28 at 12 p.m. ET , featuring Hanson alongside Ester Mora, Dr. Michelle Tuma, and Dr. Bianca Vandresen. The 45-minute conversation will cover the panelists' career journeys, the barriers they've navigated as Latina professionals in a niche sector, and the work they're most proud of. The full op-ed is available on the Humane Canada website: We Are Here: Latinas Shaping Animal Welfare in Canada .
NO TRICKS, JUST TREATS: TORONTO HUMANE SOCIETY SHARES HALLOWEEN PET SAFETY TIPS
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 10:22 EDT
Halloween is just around the corner, bringing costumes, trick-or-treaters, festive decorations and plenty of sweet treats. As families across Toronto look forward to the festivities, Toronto Humane Society is reminding pet parents that some Halloween traditions can be frightening-or even dangerous-for our pets. From a constantly ringing doorbell and unfamiliar visitors to tempting candy and elaborate decorations, Halloween can bring plenty of excitement into the home. A little preparation can help ensure everyone in the family enjoys a safe and comfortable night. "Halloween can be a lot of fun, and there are plenty of ways to include our pets in the celebration, but it's important to celebrate on their terms," says Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society. "Some pets may enjoy greeting visitors or wearing a comfortable costume, while others would much rather spend the evening somewhere quiet. Paying attention to their behaviour and giving them choices can help make Halloween a positive experience." Keep Halloween Fun, Not Frightening Toronto Humane Society recommends a few simple precautions: Keep the candy bowl out of reach: Chocolate, raisins and products containing xylitol can be dangerous for pets. Keep Halloween treats safely stored away and offer pet-friendly treats instead. Costumes should be comfortable: If your pet enjoys dressing up, choose a costume that allows them to move, see and breathe normally. Avoid small pieces that could become choking hazards, and never force a costume on an uncomfortable pet. A festive bandana can be an easy alternative. Create a quiet retreat: Doorbells, knocking, costumes and a steady stream of strangers can be overwhelming. Give pets access to a quiet, comfortable room away from the front door if they need a break. Watch the front door: With trick-or-treaters coming and going, there may be more opportunities for pets to slip outside. Keep pets secure and make sure identification and microchip information are up to date. Decorate with care: Pumpkins, candles, electrical cords and small decorations can pose risks to curious pets. Consider flameless candles and keep decorations that could be chewed or swallowed safely out of reach. Be visible after dark: If your dog joins you outside, keep them securely leashed and consider reflective or light-up gear to help make them visible to drivers, cyclists and other pedestrians. Give a Boo Basket to a Pet in Need Once the decorations are safely secured and the candy is out of reach, there's another way to make Halloween special for animals. Toronto Humane Society's Boo Basket campaign gives people the opportunity to send some Halloween joy to pets at the shelter and support animals across the community. Each Boo Basket donation helps provide treats, toys and lifesaving veterinary care to animals who need it. "Boo Baskets are a fun way to celebrate Halloween while making a meaningful difference," adds Dr. Ward . "Your support helps us provide animals with the care, comfort and enrichment they need as they prepare for their next chapter." To learn more or purchase a Boo Basket, visit TorontoHumaneSociety.com/BooBasket
SGS reports on UK authorization of cobalt for specified toy applications in Great Britain
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 04:36 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 138.26, summarizing the UK's authorization of the use of cobalt in three specified toy applications for Great Britain. The Toys (Safety) (Permitted Uses for Cobalt) (England and Wales and Scotland) Regulations 2026, issued in September 2026, add cobalt to Appendix A of Part 6 to Schedule 2 of the Toys Regulation, authorizing its use in three specified toy applications. The Regulations take effect from March 8, 2027. Stakeholders in Great Britain's toy supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers and other intermediaries, will be affected by the update. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 138.26 includes details of the three newly authorized toy applications for cobalt, together with their implementation date. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 138.26 for more details. SGS toy and juvenile product services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's toy and juvenile product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full UK Authorizes Cobalt for Specified Uses in Toys for Great Britain SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
SGS reports on expanded PFAS labeling options for specified products in Connecticut
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 04:29 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 136.26, reporting on the expansion of the approved labeling language and symbols for 12 specified product categories containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The expansion follows the enactment of SB 292 (Public Act No. 24-59) in 2024, which regulated PFAS in many consumer goods. This was codified as Section 22a-903c of the Connecticut General Statutes, which established notification and labeling requirements and prohibited specified products with intentionally added PFAS from January 1, 2028. Beginning July 1, 2026, products in 12 specified product categories containing intentionally added PFAS are prohibited unless appropriately labeled. Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has updated its website to, inter alia, specify the approved wording and symbols. Manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries in the supply chain for the applicable consumer products sold or distributed in Connecticut will be affected by the updated requirements. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 136.26 includes further information on the approved labeling language and symbols, as well as key requirements for affected products. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 136.26 for more details. IMPACT NOW PFAS testing is part of SGS's IMPACT NOW for sustainability initiative which unites all SGS's sustainability solutions under four strategic pillars - climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity. Together, SGS drives businesses toward meaningful change helping them to meet rising regulatory and stakeholder expectations. Find out more at www.sgs.com/impactnow . SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Connecticut, USA, Expands PFAS Labeling Options for Specified Products SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Don't Wait Until the Damage Is Done: HSE's Warning Works for Equipment Too
Wed, Oct 21, 2026 03:22 EDT
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched a new noise and vibration campaign on 13 October, during Bone and Joint Health Week, urging employers to act before workers are harmed rather than after. Around 15,000 people develop hearing problems caused or made worse by work every year, and HSE estimates one in five workers is exposed to harmful noise. Its central warning is that people often don't realise they're being affected until symptoms appear, by which point some damage may be permanent. The campaign asks employers to assess the risk, control it, and protect people where some risk remains. The control step includes maintaining tools and machinery. Handling equipment may not immediately come to mind when it comes to this campaign, but the principle carries over to the pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables that fulfilment businesses work with every day. Wear on equipment shows up over time. Wheels flatten, steering stiffens, hydraulics slow, and on electric trucks the battery holds a little less charge each month. Nothing fails outright, so nothing gets reported. Staff simply adapt, and the extra effort is absorbed by whoever is using it that shift. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "Nobody rings us to say their pallet truck got a bit stiffer last Tuesday. It happens gradually, and the people using it adjust without noticing. A harder shove here, a couple of extra pumps there. You can carry on like that for months, and by the time somebody's struggling, it's been going on for a long while. "I'd rather a business had a routine than relied on someone complaining. Ten minutes once a month is plenty. Does it roll freely? Does it lift to full height? On an electric truck, is the battery still holding a decent charge through a full shift? If you can feel it getting harder, that effort is being passed on to somebody's back and shoulders. "With the busiest weeks of the year coming up for online retailers, it's a good time to check. A piece of equipment that was fine through summer can show its age quickly once it's working flat out." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
MENA's top tech founders meet global investors in London to fuel growth, led by Key Capital and regional partners
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 11:52 EDT
Key Trek 2026 demonstrated global investors' continued interest in the region despite prolonged geopolitical uncertainty Key Capital is committed to the active development and growth of the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem The top MENA technology firms wrapped up a week of engagement with venture capital firms, institutional investors, family offices and strategic partners in London, as part of Key Trek 2026 , organized by VC secondaries asset manager Key Capital. The fourth edition of Key Trek brought together MENA's most promising late-stage founders, from multiple technology sectors such as AI and data, fintech and financial infrastructure, enterprise software, cybersecurity, deep technology, logistics and mobility, proptech and vertical SaaS. Full list of participating companies here . "This year's Trek showed that the appetite of global investors for MENA's best companies is real, and growing," said Basil Moftah, managing partner at Key Capital. "Within days of the programme closing, founders are already reporting second meetings, due diligence and term sheet discussions. Our role is to keep building that bridge, so that the region's strongest companies have consistent access to international capital." Key Trek's objective is to highlight the depth and breadth of the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem while facilitating strategic introductions that can lead to long-term business relationships and partnerships. This edition delivered: 350+ investor meetings for 70 founders and 69 investors, as well as sector-focused discussion panels and sessions, and private dinners. Mohammad Al Zaben, co-founder and CEO of ClearGrid, said: "The Key Capital London Trek was the most useful week I've spent outside the region this year. Real access, not a conference ... We came home with six live investor follow-ups and a much sharper read on how top investors think about MENA fintech." While the CEO and co-founder of Merit, Julie Barbier-Leblan, said: "The Key Capital Trek was exceptionally well curated, connecting us with high-quality investors and institutions through relevant, meaningful conversations." Key Trek 2026 was led by Key Capital and supported by strategic ecosystem partners, including 500 Global, Arbor Ventures, AWS, BECO Capital, BlackRock, Dubai Financial Market, DotZero, Dubai Future District Fund, Endeavor, ExBorder Partners, Hub71, Impact46, Inovia Capital, Jefferies, Key Capital, Pact VC, QED Investors, RAED Ventures, SHUAA Capital PSC, Stride Asset Management, VentureSouq, and Winston Taylor.
Somerset developer becomes first commercial investor in major nature restoration project
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 11:27 EDT
South West developer Summerfield has become the first commercial investor in a 120-acre nature restoration project at Wrangcombe Farm, near the Wellington Monument, funding improvements to native wildflower grasslands as part of a wider programme of biodiversity recovery. Working with naturethrive , Summerfield is funding the restoration of two areas of previously improved grassland, covering 2.27 hectares, to significantly increase the diversity and abundance of native wildflowers and deliver measurable improvements in biodiversity as part of its approach to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). Under current planning legislation, many new developments are required to deliver at least a 10% increase in biodiversity compared with the site's pre-development condition. Summerfield is investing in locally generated BNG units through naturethrive, helping it meet those obligations while supporting habitat restoration and enhancement within Somerset. As well as investing in the restoration work, Summerfield plans to offer staff opportunities to volunteer on the site and learn more about the project as it develops. The wider 120-acre site includes rare mire habitat, steep-sided wooded stream valleys known locally as "goyles", heathland, ponds and areas rich in orchids. Public access is restricted to help protect sensitive habitats and ground-nesting birds. James Holyday, Group Managing Director at Summerfield, said: "We are committed to operating in greener ways, from increasing our use of renewable energy to protecting and enhancing biodiversity. "Delivering Biodiversity Net Gain effectively can be complex, particularly when it comes to securing long-term habitat management, so we are delighted to be working with naturethrive on a local restoration project where we can see the environmental benefits being delivered and maintained. "It is particularly positive to be able to invest in a scheme close to home which will restore and enhance habitats while supporting our wider environmental responsibilities." Jonathan Withey, Director and Co-founder of naturethrive, said: "We really appreciate Summerfield's commitment as our first commercial investor. Their support means we can move ahead with preparing and re-seeding the grassland and begin the long-term process of restoring these areas for wildlife. "We're looking forward to seeing the biodiversity benefits develop over the coming years." To mark the partnership, representatives from Summerfield and naturethrive planted an oak sapling on the site. The sapling was relocated from an area of heathland where it had been struggling to establish, to an area of grassland close to a planned pond.
Summerfield solar investment saves 26 tonnes of CO2 every year
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 11:19 EDT
South West property developer Summerfield is generating almost 188,000 kWh of renewable electricity each year through its investment in solar energy, saving an estimated 26 tonnes of CO2 annually across five commercial sites. The Taunton-based company has installed 415 solar panels, with a combined capacity of 185.58 kW, across its commercial developments at Tauntfield in Taunton, Lakeside and Aintree House on Blackbrook Business Park in Taunton, Vantage Point and Belvedere House on Pynes Hill in Exeter. All supplied through green energy tariffs. The investment forms part of Summerfield's wider commitment to improving the energy efficiency and sustainability of its developments. This has helped Summerfield continue to attract occupiers, with only two office suites currently vacant across Summerfield's entire portfolio. The results come as Summerfield completes its first net-zero energy housing development at Middlezoy, where the homes are designed to generate as much energy as they are expected to use. The company is also continuing its investment at Westpark 26 Business Park in Wellington, where 16 new commercial units are being built to high energy-efficiency standards. The units will feature PV solar panels, with occupiers also offered electric vehicle charging options. Energy-saving measures are incorporated across Summerfield Homes developments, including double glazing, insulated doors, low-energy lighting, counterflow heat exchangers and electric vehicle charging points. The company also seeks to support biodiversity through new open spaces and green links, native tree and wildflower planting, and bird and bat boxes. At its flagship Killams Park development in Taunton, Summerfield has improved footpaths and cycleways while creating new green spaces and an Art and Nature Trail for residents and the wider community. James Holyday, Group Managing Director at Summerfield, said: "These figures demonstrate that practical investment in renewable energy is delivering measurable results across our commercial portfolio. It is reducing emissions, helping occupiers manage energy costs and making our workspaces more attractive to businesses. "With our first net-zero energy homes now complete at Middlezoy and further energy-efficient commercial units under way at Westpark 26, we intend to keep building on that progress and exploring new technologies across future developments."
Taunton businesses raise over £500 for Young Somerset's STAR Opportunity Fund at charity quiz night
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 11:10 EDT
Businesses and organisations from across Taunton came together for a charity quiz night on Thursday 15 October, raising £512 for STAR, Young Somerset's Opportunity Fund, which helps children and young people overcome financial barriers to accessing opportunities and activities. Organised by Taunton Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Taunton Young Chamber, the event took place at Taunton Vale Sports Club and brought together members of the local business community for an evening of friendly competition and fundraising in aid of Young Somerset . The evening raised funds through team ticket sales, a raffle and direct donations, with Clarke Willmott taking the top spot in the quiz. Bethan Turner, Membership and Events Manager at Taunton Chamber of Commerce, said: "This charity quiz night was a fantastic example of Taunton Chamber of Commerce and Taunton Young Chamber collaborating to support a great cause. We're hugely grateful to Taunton Vale Sports Club, a fellow Chamber member, for kindly waiving its hire fee to maximise the fundraising opportunity for Young Somerset. "We're also incredibly grateful to everyone who bought a team ticket and generously supported the raffle. A special thank you to our Quiz Mistress, Rachel Walker-House, for keeping everyone entertained and making the evening such a success. "This event really showed how our local business community can come together, have fun, support one another and make a positive difference." The funds raised will go directly towards STAR, Young Somerset's Opportunity Fund, which provides small grants to help children and young people access opportunities they might otherwise miss out on. This can include support towards the cost of sports clubs, music lessons, equipment and other activities that help build confidence, develop skills and improve wellbeing. Nik Harwood, Chief Executive of Young Somerset, said: "We're incredibly grateful to Taunton Chamber of Commerce, Taunton Young Chamber and everyone who supported the quiz night. It's fantastic to see local businesses coming together to make a real difference to young people's lives. "Every penny raised will go directly towards STAR, our Opportunity Fund, helping children and young people who might otherwise miss out on opportunities because of financial circumstances. Whether that's funding sports club memberships, music lessons or essential equipment, these opportunities can make a huge difference to a young person's confidence, wellbeing and sense of belonging. "£512 is a wonderful amount to raise in one evening, and we're so grateful to everyone involved for helping us create more opportunities for young people across Somerset."
American Marketing Association's Marketing / And Podcast Wins Bronze at the Signal Awards
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 10:42 EDT
American Marketing Association's Marketing / And Podcast Wins Bronze at the Signal Awards Hosted by AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson, Marketing / And is honored in the Creativity & Marketing Category Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) is proud to announce its flagship podcast, Marketing / And , hosted by AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson, has won a Bronze award in the 5th Annual Signal Awards. Recognized in the competitive Creativity & Marketing category, the podcast stands out among global audio productions that define excellence, creativity, and powerful storytelling in the digital landscape. "Winning a Signal Award is an incredible honor and a reflection of the global marketing community that continues to engage, challenge, and inspire us," said Bennie F. Johnson, AMA CEO and podcast host . "We're excited to keep bringing fresh perspectives to our conversations and celebrating this milestone with our remarkable guests." Listen to the award winning season 8 of Marketing / And . The Signal Awards set the standard for digital audio excellence, honoring the podcast and audio creators shaping the future of the medium. Winning a Signal Award highlights Marketing / And's distinct voice and its commitment to exploring the complex and dynamic space where marketing intersects with leadership, technology, culture, and much more. Featuring deep-dive conversations with prominent CMOs, creative directors, entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders, Marketing / And discusses critical industry shifts from the rise of AI and innovation to radical brand strategies and foundational empathy. Each weekly episode provides listeners with actionable insights and visionary perspectives on how top leaders are shaping the future of the industry. Season 8 of Marketing / And is live now, with weekly episodes on Wednesdays. Visit ama.org to view all episodes or find it on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, Simplecast, and wherever you listen to podcasts. ###
DHA Fire Stopping backs 2026 Weston Beach Race and launches Diabetes UK fundraiser
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 10:15 EDT
DHA Fire Stopping has confirmed its support for the 2026 Weston Beach Race, returning as the event's Official Fire Safety Partner and Official Sponsor of the Youth Races, while also using the weekend to raise funds for Diabetes UK . The Weston-super-Mare-based fire protection specialist will have a trackside presence on the promenade throughout the event, which takes place from 16-18 October 2026. As part of its fundraising activity, DHA will invite race fans to visit its tent and make a voluntary donation to Diabetes UK for the opportunity to have a photograph taken with race bikes on display during the weekend. Young racer Preston 'Bam Bam' Chorley, sponsored by DHA Fire Stopping and riding as part of the 3 Flo Madison Crescent Yamaha bLU cRU team, will also join the team at selected times, giving fans the chance to meet him and have a photograph taken, subject to his racing commitments. All money raised through the photo opportunity will be donated to Diabetes UK, with both cash and card donations welcomed. Dave Alsop, Managing Director of DHA Fire Stopping, said: "We're really pleased to be supporting the Weston Beach Race again this year. It's a fantastic event for the town and one that brings together families, young riders, businesses and visitors from across the region. "As Official Fire Safety Partner and sponsor of the Youth Races, we're proud to play our part in supporting both the event and the next generation of riders. "This year we also wanted to add something that gives race fans a bit of extra fun while raising money for a worthwhile cause. We hope plenty of people will come and find us at the DHA tent, get a photo with the bikes and help us raise as much as we can for Diabetes UK." Louise Efford, Community Fundraiser - South West at Diabetes UK, said: "We're incredibly grateful to DHA Fire Stopping for choosing to support Diabetes UK through its involvement in this year's Weston Beach Race. "Every donation helps us continue our work supporting people living with diabetes, funding vital research and helping to improve understanding of the condition. "We hope everyone attending the event has a fantastic weekend and gets behind DHA's fundraising efforts." The 2026 Weston Beach Race takes place from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October on Weston-super-Mare's seafront. Visitors wishing to support the fundraiser should head to the DHA Fire Stopping tent, trackside on the promenade, where the photo opportunity will be available across the weekend.
Surveyor shortages risk leaving damp unresolved despite Awaab's Law compliance, warns Federation of Damp
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 08:36 EDT
Social landlords risk meeting Awaab's Law deadlines without resolving the underlying causes of damp and mould unless shortages of competent surveyors are addressed, the Federation of Damp has warned. Responding to the Government's Phase 1 "Test and Learn" research, the organisation said pressure to demonstrate compliance must be matched by the expertise and capacity to diagnose problems accurately and deliver lasting repairs. Commissioned by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and carried out by Verian, the research is based on interviews with tenants and focus groups with social landlords across England. Emergency hazards, it found, were largely manageable within the statutory 24-hour window. Damp and mould were a different story: cases may drag, often needing more complex diagnosis and several trades coordinated to fix the problem rather than just respond to it. Workforce shortages came up repeatedly, with surveyors and specialist trades singled out as a specific pinch point limiting how fast landlords could move. And the report flags something truly concerning: when capacity runs short and guidance is unclear, there's a real risk organisations end up focused on proving they've complied rather than on truly fixing what's wrong in the home. Sam Fitzgerald, founder of the Federation of Damp, said the report raises red flags, noting, "Damp surveying isn't a regulated profession. Anyone can call themselves a damp surveyor with no training at all. The report is picking up exactly the problem that creates: landlords are watching two clocks without always having the right people in front of the problem. "What worries me most is how often the conclusion is decided before anyone arrives. 'Condensation, resident lifestyle' is the cheapest possible answer for a landlord, which is exactly why it should be evidenced rather than assumed." Mindful of the introduction of Phase 2 of Awaab's Law on 30 November, Fitzgerald added, "Responding quickly and responding correctly are two different things, and only one of them is being counted. Phase 2 adds seven more hazard types onto teams already stretched on damp. If competence doesn't scale alongside the deadlines, landlords will keep hitting every timescale without really fixing the problem." The Federation of Damp works with housing providers and local authorities to build surveying capacity through its structured, City & Guilds Assured training and certification programmes, aimed at closing the competence gap the Government's own research has now identified. For more information, please visit federationofdamp.co.uk .
Waiting On the Budget? A Manual Pallet Truck Has No Energy Bill
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 05:57 EDT
As Chancellor John Healey prepares to deliver his first Autumn Budget on 28 October, for plenty of manufacturers in the Midlands and beyond one question hangs over it more than any other: will anything be done about energy costs? Make UK's latest Manufacturing Outlook, published in September, still lists them as a major barrier to growth, investment and job creation across the sector. Nobody on a factory floor can do much about that in the next fortnight. Midland Pallet Trucks says one small overhead can come off the list straight away, though. A manual pallet truck, stacker or lift table runs on the person using it and nothing else. No charger, no battery, no meter ticking over in the background. It isn't a saving anyone will mention in a Budget response. But while energy bills can be death by a thousand small draws, most sites have never looked at where their handling equipment sits in that picture. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "People hear the word manual and assume it's the cheap, old-fashioned option. For a lot of jobs, it's simply the better tool. "Short moves, awkward spaces, lighter loads, kit that gets used a few times a shift rather than all day. A pallet truck , stacker truck or a lift table does that without a charger to find a socket for or a battery to replace down the line. "I'm not against electric - we sell plenty of it, and some work genuinely needs it. But powered equipment shouldn't be bought out of habit. Before anyone signs for it, ask whether the job calls for it. "Nobody knows what the Budget will do about energy until the day itself. Kit that doesn't depend on the answer is one less thing to worry about while you wait." For manufacturers weighing up equipment before the year is out, Midland Pallet Trucks suggests walking the site and sorting handling jobs into two piles: those that need power, and those that only have it because it was the default. It costs nothing - and might just turn up a few surprises. For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
WebRun launches AI agents for business operations, with a developer API
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 05:12 EDT
SAN FRANCISCO, October 20, 2026: WebRun today launched its AI business automation platform for business owners, startup founders and small teams. Its AI agents automate the recurring work a team does across customer service, sales, finance and operations, inside the web tools the business already uses. Developers can use the same agent computers through WebRun's API and MCP server. Owners and founders set up agents by describing a job in plain language, recording their screen while doing it once, or choosing a workflow template. Each agent works on its own computer in the cloud, clicking and typing inside web tools such as Gmail, HubSpot, Salesforce, QuickBooks and Xero, on a schedule the business sets. The team's own computers do not need to stay on. The agents use each tool the way a person does: they look at the screen, then click and type. That lets them work in tools with no API or connector, such as an in-house admin system or a supplier's portal. Teams can assign agents to recurring work across departments, including: Customer service: answering customer emails, routing support tickets and replying to reviews. Sales: responding to new leads and following up on outstanding quotes. Finance: chasing overdue invoices, reconciling vendor bills and preparing recurring reports. Operations: booking appointments, sending reminders and turning work-order emails into jobs. For longer jobs, a business owner can give an agent a work list, such as 40 leads to follow up with. The agent processes one item at a time, tracking what is complete, what comes next and anything it skipped. Owners and founders also set rules for which websites agents can visit and which actions they may take. WebRun's Automation Policies check proposed clicks, typing and navigation before execution. An action set to require approval pauses the run for the owner's decision through Telegram or WhatsApp. Each run is recorded so the team can review what happened. For developers, WebRun offers the same infrastructure through a REST API and MCP server. WebRun has been deploying agentic AI since 2023. In 2024, the company released AiPlix, an AI web browser, on Google Play. The new platform applies that experience to recurring business work and developer automation. "Business owners and founders should be able to delegate a job, set the boundaries and know what happened," said Maged Gamani, founder of WebRun. "We built WebRun so a small team can put recurring work on a schedule across its existing tools. Developers can build on the same infrastructure for their own products." Availability WebRun is available now at webrun.ai , with plans from US$20 a month and a 7-day free trial. Product images and a short film are available at webrun.ai/press .
The Future Skills Gap: Research Identifies Five Skills Children Need For A Changing World
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:55 EDT
Review of eight global workforce and education publications highlights recurring priorities for preparing young people for life and work Ask a chatbot for an essay on the French Revolution and it can deliver one in seconds. The harder question is whether a twelve-year-old can recognise mistakes, question its conclusions and explain what needs improving. That distinction, between generating an answer and understanding it, is central to a review of recent workforce and education research by Learnlife, the award-winning independent school and education innovator. Drawing on eight publications released in 2025 and 2026, Learnlife has identified five recurring skill areas that can help children navigate a changing world: Critical thinking and problem solving: learning to question information, assess evidence and explain the reasoning behind a decision. Adaptability and learning how to learn: approaching unfamiliar challenges, responding to feedback and changing direction when an approach does not work. Communication and collaboration: expressing ideas clearly, listening to others and working through different perspectives. Creativity: developing original ideas, exploring alternatives and testing ways to improve a solution. Digital and AI literacy: understanding what technology can and cannot do, evaluating its outputs and using it responsibly. The review brings together findings from the World Economic Forum, Microsoft, LinkedIn, McKinsey, PwC and OECD. Learnlife says their implications extend beyond preparing children for employment, informing how education helps young people discover their interests, grow in confidence and develop skills for life. The workforce findings underline the pace of change. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 , employers expect 39 per cent of workers' core skills to change by 2030, with analytical thinking leading their current core skills priorities. Microsoft's Work Trend Index 2026 , which surveyed 20,000 workers using AI across ten countries, found that 50 per cent identified checking AI output and 46 per cent identified critical thinking as human skills becoming more important as AI takes on more work. The education evidence raises a related question. The OECD's Digital Education Outlook 2026 finds that improved performance on a task with AI assistance does not automatically translate into learning gains. How technology is used, and whether learners remain actively engaged in thinking, matters. Stephen Harris, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Learnlife, said: "An answer is only useful if a child can understand it, question it and decide what to do with it. Those habits develop through practice: explaining a decision, testing an idea, listening to another perspective and trying again when something does not work. "But education must also help children discover who they are. Exploring their passions, growing in confidence and learning to express themselves are part of developing the skills they need for life. We want children to feel excited about learning and to carry that curiosity beyond school." Learnlife's approach combines personal learning plans, real-world projects and support from learning guides and mentors. Learners are supported to explore their interests and take increasing responsibility for their learning, with opportunities to reflect, collaborate and respond to feedback. For parents, Learnlife says the practical question is how regularly children get to use these capabilities: explain their thinking, contribute to a shared project, explore an interest or improve their work after a setback. Its aim is to help children develop a lifelong love of learning, alongside the confidence and essential skills to thrive in life and the modern world. For more information, visit www.learnlife.com .
SGS Highlights Thailand's Proposed Updates to Food Contact Plastic Packaging Requirements
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:40 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 132.26, reporting on Thailand's proposed revisions to food contact plastic packaging requirements. A consultation opened on September 16, 2026, by the country's Food and Drug Administration (TFDA). The proposed amendments to the Notification of the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH No. 435) B.E. 2565 (2022) would revise requirements for permitted plastics, recycled materials and certain substances used in food contact plastic containers. The revisions include the following key changes: Introduction of seven new types of plastic and requirements for their use in food contact containers, including stricter migration limits for certain materials Removal of certain plastics used for the manufacture of containers New section covering plastic containers made from recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE), including detailed requirements Enhanced quality requirements for certain types of plastic, including provisions relating to epoxy derivatives, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and specific migration limits for selected substances Manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in the food contact plastic materials and articles supply chain in Thailand could be affected if the amendments are approved. The proposals are open to comment until December 31, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 132.26 includes a list of applicable phthalates and their abbreviations. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 132.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact material services. 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 SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Thailand Proposes Revisions to Food Contact Plastic Packaging Rules SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Rutchuporn Moungsom Laboratory Manager Tel: +66 2 481 5259 extension 6320 Website: www.sgs.com LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
When Porn Becomes a Relationship Problem: A Therapist Explains the Impact on Trust, Intimacy and Control
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:37 EDT
More than half (53%) of therapists working with men with addiction reported a rise in porn addiction over the previous year, according to BACP's 2025 Mindometer survey. But when does pornography become a problem within a relationship? London psychosexual and relationship therapist Rea Shahroudi explains how loss of control, secrecy and differing erotic templates can affect trust and intimacy, and why understanding what is causing the distress is the first step towards addressing it. The co-founder of sex and relationship therapy platform Intima Therapy, Rea says the key question is how pornography use affects the couple's trust, intimacy and sex life. "If one partner in the relationship is really struggling with insecurity, or usage of porn is excessive and affecting the couple's sex life, then it is a problem," she explains. Secrecy can add another layer of difficulty. Shahroudi says people may hide their pornography use because they fear upsetting their partner, feel ashamed or worry about being judged for their sexual interests. When a partner discovers it, the resulting conflict can involve both the viewing itself and the feeling that something has been concealed. "For some it feels like the person has cheated on them with lots of other people," she explains. Understanding what pornography means to each partner is therefore part of understanding the disagreement. One may see it as private fantasy, while the other experiences it as rejection or a breach of the relationship's boundaries. "People watch for different reasons. For some, they are engaging in the fantasies which they feel they cannot indulge in while with their partners. For others, this becomes a means of relaxing and de-stressing, and excessive use may be a form of escape" says Shahroudi. Those different motivations give couples something more specific to discuss what role pornography plays, whether it is displacing time or intimacy together, and what each person feels comfortable with. Differences in sexual interests can also become part of that conversation, without assuming that partners must share every fantasy. In Shahroudi's own caseload, most people seeking help for compulsive pornography use are under 30. This is an observation from her practice rather than a population-wide finding. She says shame can make it difficult for people to raise the subject or seek support. For couples, the difficulty may build gradually. Viewing becomes a recurring source of disagreement, intimacy suffers, or one partner feels increasingly insecure. Meanwhile, work pressures and family responsibilities can push the relationship further down the list of priorities. For more information, visit intimatherapy.co.uk .
SGS Publishes SafeGuardS on Australia's Proposed IChEMS Chemical Scheduling
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:28 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 131.26, reporting on proposals by Australia to add ten classes of industrial chemicals to the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Instrument 2022 (IChEMS Register). The one-month consultation opened on September 21, 2026, by Australia's Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). The IChEMS Principles establish the framework for assessing environmental risk, with industrial chemicals placed in one of seven IChEMS Register schedules. The proposals would place a range of chemicals into Schedules 2 to 6 based on their assessed environmental hazard, including substances such as salicylic acid, dehydroacetic acid, hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrochlorofluoroolefins (HCFOs), nonylphenols, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC PFCAs). Implementation would begin from July 1, 2027, with higher-risk substances categorized as having the potential to cause, being likely to cause, or being capable of causing serious or irreversible environmental harm, while lower-risk substances would be classified as unlikely to cause harm. Stakeholders across multiple industries and supply chains, including manufacturers, users, importers and exporters of these industrial chemicals, as well as products that contain or are contaminated by them, will be affected by the proposals. The consultation is open to comments until October 23, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 131.26 includes a helpful table summarizing the scope, requirements and proposed effective dates applicable to LC PFCAs, their salts and related compounds, which fall under the Schedule 6 category of the IChEMS Register. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 131.26 for more details. SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Australia Consults on Proposed IChEMS Scheduling of Several Chemicals SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
