News Hub | News Direct

Professional Services

Architecture CRM/Customer Service Consulting Government & Policy Human Resources Intellectual Property/Trademark/Patent Law Legal
Article thumbnail News Release

NLPC Files SEC Complaint Against Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway for Having Shareholder Arrested During Annual Meeting For Mentioning Jeffrey Epstein

NLPC

National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC) filed a Complaint with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) today against Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway for silencing and ordering the arrest of the group’s chairman, Peter Flaherty, at the company’s shareholders’ meeting on May 6, 2023 At the meeting, Flaherty spoke in favor of NLPC’s shareholder proposal for an independent chairman. Buffett is currently both Chairman and CEO. Flaherty cited the reputational risk to the company posed by Warren Buffett’s close identification with Bill Gates and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and its “woke” policies to which Buffett has contributed tens of billions. Flaherty pointed to Gates' association with Jeffrey Epstein, even after Epstein had been convicted of sex crimes against minors. From the Complaint: We hereby request that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) initiate a formal investigation, including the issuance of subpoenas, and take appropriate administrative and civil enforcement action against Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire), Warren Buffett, its Chairman and CEO, and other Berkshire officers and agents, for their unlawful conduct during the annual shareholders’ meeting in Omaha, Nebraska on May 6, 2023. During his authorized and SEC-mandated presentation in support of Proposal No. 8 for an independent chair, Peter Flaherty, Chairman of the National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC), was interrupted by a Berkshire executive, had his microphone cut, and was arrested for trespassing because Warren Buffett, its CEO and Chairman, did not like what Mr. Flaherty had to say in support of NLPC’s proposal. In addition to imposing appropriate sanctions, the SEC should issue a cease and desist order against Berkshire from prematurely terminating NLPC’s and any other shareholder’s presentation at future annual shareholder meetings Events since the arrest have confirmed the importance of the issue. Last weekend, the Wall Street Journal published a lengthy story with new details about Epstein’s interactions with Gates and other wealthy individuals. On Monday, a federal judge ensured that the issue will stay alive in the new year when she ordered that the names of Epstein associates be made public. From the Complaint: NLPC further requests that the following enforcement and remedial actions be taken to ensure that NLPC’s rights as shareholders in the Company are protected and to remediate the violation of the rights of all other shareholders that took place by depriving them of the right to hear Mr. Flaherty’s statement supporting the proposal on May 6, 2023: Declare that Berkshire’s actions cutting off the mic of Mr. Flaherty before his allotted three-minutes to speak expired, having him expelled from the annual meeting, and subsequently arrested, constitute a violation of SEC’s rules and policies designed to protect shareholder rights. Order Berkshire to issue an apology on its website to NLPC and Mr. Flaherty for cutting his mic and having him arrested. Order Berkshire to post a video of Mr. Flaherty’s full uninterrupted three-minute prepared remarks on Berkshire’s website for at least three years, along with a written transcript. Issue a Cease and Desist Order that Berkshire shall refrain from prematurely terminating the oral presentation of Mr. Flaherty and any other proponent for an authorized shareholder proxy proposal or interrupting, harassing, or having them expelled from the meeting or arrested at future meetings as long as their presentation is in within the allotted time given by the company. Any and all other relief that the Commission deems just and appropriate. Click here for the Complaint. Click here for Complaint Exhibits. The Complaint includes links to three videos that together provide a complete account of what took place. What Flaherty said before his mic was cut: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egy8kpUaOIY Security moves in on Flaherty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQOx7FAAGbU&t=0s The arrest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErHXIrDNz14 NLPC Counsel Paul Kamenar, who submitted the Complaint, concludes: "Berkshire’s and Mr. Buffett’s actions are an ominous precedent for the rights of shareholders that cannot be allowed to stand. We believe that the silencing and arrest of a shareholder during their presentation on behalf of their proposal at the annual meeting of a public company in the United States is unprecedented, should be sanctioned, and should not allowed to be repeated." NLPC has already filed a proposal on the risks of Berkshire’s business in China for the 2024 annual meeting. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

December 20, 2023 02:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Reflection Analytics Launches Digital Platform for Comprehensive ESG Audit and Analysis

Reflection Analytics

Reflection Analytics, a technology company delivering ESG investment evaluation, reporting and advisory services, announced today that it has launched Reflect—the first and only platform for investor-focused ESG analysis, serving asset managers, financial advisors, and investors/institutions across six key areas: advisory, due diligence, compliance, portfolio management, auditing and reporting. Launched just two months after the SEC expanded Rule 35d-1, the “Names Rule,” to include ESG terms, Reflect is the market’s only “Names Rule"-compliant software, providing an investor-focused rating that scores companies across 250 data points in 18 ESG sub-themes while also offering asset managers a portfolio management tool to ensure continuous compliance. Under the SEC’s expanded rule, asset managers have 24 months to begin reporting on their alignment, demonstrating that 80% of their investments are in securities that reflect the terms in their name, or risk regulatory fines and fees. Unlike other ESG rating companies, which focus on only financial materiality and from the corporation’s management perspective, Reflect assesses companies from the perspective of an investor’s understanding and reasonable expectations. “The big ESG ratings agencies aren’t evaluating companies from the investor’s perspective—which the expanded SEC ‘Names Rule' requires—but rather are looking at them from a corporate management perspective, which is a real problem,” said Jason Britton, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Reflection Analytics. “With existing rating methodologies, a company like McDonald’s could have a higher ESG rating than a business focused on reducing greenhouse gases and cleaning up waste. With Reflect, asset managers have, for the first time, the ability to assess investments from the investor’s perspective and at a more granular level.” The SaaS tool assesses companies by benchmarking them against their sector peer group and ranking them by quartile performance. Beyond its use as a compliance tool, Reflect is designed to support values-based investing. The Reflect platform allows advisors, investors and institutions to review portfolios based on ESG components that are most important to them while also identifying types of companies to avoid, such as those associated with weapons or alcohol. After analyzing an investment portfolio, Reflect provides a real-time, percentage-match score, rating investments across 18 sub-themes ranging from “not aligned” to “strongly aligned.” Reflect can also weigh an existing portfolio against a curated list of investments, allowing individuals and institutions to compare assets via a side-by-side analysis. With comprehensive data on 6,500 companies—or 98% of the global market capitalization—the patent-pending software can analyze virtually every asset type, including individual equities, bonds and investments in various structures, including ETFs, mutual funds and SMAs. Like a credit-rating score, Reflect provides investors, advisors and asset managers with the most comprehensive, up-to-date ESG information and the assurance it brings. About Reflection Analytics Reflection Analytics’ patent-pending software—Reflect—is the only ESG ratings tool designed to serve asset managers, financial advisors and investors/institutions across six key areas: advisory, due diligence, compliance, portfolio management, auditing and reporting. Unlike other ESG software, which are reliant on rating methodologies rooted in the corporate perspective, Reflect analyzes 250 data points from an investor-focused viewpoint. As the industry’s only “Names Rule-compliant tool,” Reflect helps portfolio managers meet new compliance standards, with the SEC’s expansion of the “Names Rule” to include ESG funds taking effect in less than two years. Reflect maintains comprehensive self-reported and third-party data on 6,500 companies, or 98% of the global market cap. For more information, visit: www.reflectvalues.com. Contact Details For Reflection Analytics Peter Page ppage@vocatusllc.com Company Website https://www.reflectvalues.com/

December 14, 2023 10:05 AM Eastern Standard Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Rotunda Capital Partners Announces New IT and Cyber Operating Partner

Rotunda Capital Partners LLC

Rotunda Capital Partners ("Rotunda"), an operationally focused private equity firm that partners with family-founder owned businesses, is pleased to announce the addition of Matt Mitchell to its team of Operating Partners. Mr. Mitchell will be responsible for providing experienced guidance and support with the goal of driving value creation on key IT and cyber related portfolio company initiatives that will enhance the platform to drive organic growth and accelerate the pace of acquisition integration. Mr. Mitchell joins Rotunda with over 30 years of experience working across a broad array of industries to establish digital strategies, architect IT roadmaps and build cyber risk management capabilities designed to maximize value creation. He previously served as Chief Information Officer at Covington & Burling, LLP, a global law firm. Prior to that, he was CIO of AARP, a nationally recognized nonprofit, CIO of Cenveo, a world leader of the distribution and management of print offerings and CIO of Aramark, a leading global education organization with over 3,000 locations. "We fully expect that Matt’s considerable expertise in implementing and leading strategic initiatives in IT will facilitate growth, mitigate risk and accelerate enterprise value creation initiatives within the portfolio," said John Fruehwirth, managing partner of Rotunda. "Rotunda remains committed to investing in our Operating Partner team to enhance the success of our portfolio companies." "I admire Rotunda’s focus on operational excellence, and its commitment to strong partnerships with portfolio companies," said Mr. Mitchell. "I am excited to collaborate with my fellow Operating Partners and management teams to drive value across the portfolio." About Rotunda Capital Partners Rotunda Capital Partners is an operationally oriented private equity firm focused on transforming family-founder owned companies into dynamic, data-driven platforms able to achieve and manage significant growth. Since its founding in 2009, Rotunda has partnered with management teams to build great businesses within three primary sectors: value-added distribution, asset-light logistics and industrial, business, and residential services. Rotunda strives to achieve replicable results by implementing its Rotunda Performance System to create strategic alignment, develop lean processes and create robust, data-driven infrastructures. For more information, visit www.rotundacapital.com. Contact Details Rotunda Capital Partners Margaux Valle +1 240-962-1707 PR@rotundacapital.com Company Website https://www.rotundacapital.com

December 12, 2023 01:56 PM Eastern Standard Time

Article thumbnail News Release

French fintech Aria lands €15M to bring the digital payment experience to all businesses

Aria

B2B payments represent $120 trillion in volume annually around the world but only 7% of this is conducted digitally. Helping businesses upgrade their payments infrastructure and get paid instantly, French fintech Aria is today announcing a €15M funding round to expand their deferred payment infrastructure across the platform economy and B2B marketplaces. The funding round was led by 13books Capital with participation from Adevinta Ventures, Ankaa Ventures, Otium Capital and angel investors including Laurent Ritter (Purple), Mark Ransford and Guillaume Princen (former Stripe exec). Aria enables any merchant, B2B marketplace or vertical SaaS company that sells goods and services online and offline to offer their sellers a wide array of payment methods and terms, and get paid instantly — all in a single platform. Aria is able to connect with B2B marketplaces, transactional SaaS platforms and ERP systems to distribute early payment of supplier invoices and offers deferred payment options for end-clients via their API. Clément Carrier, CEO and co-founder of Aria, commented: “We have solved a big problem for freelancers and the platform economy but we have seen, first-hand, that businesses face a big bottleneck when it comes to payments. Most online business purchases today are completed by credit cards, while transactions via preferred methods for most businesses — like wires, checks, and online banking — remain offline and have to be conducted elsewhere. This is because the process is incredibly challenging, often involving offline quotes and invoices, multiple phone calls and emails, and long payment delays. Aria manages all of this complexity behind a slick checkout experience and makes offering flexible payments methods and terms as easy as using a credit card. The truth is that innovation in B2B commerce payments has lagged far behind the B2C space. We want to modernise wide-ranging aspects of how B2B commerce is conducted in the digital age.” Aria will offer businesses a check out experience akin to B2C users and underlying this the embedded payment infrastructure will cover funding, KYC/KYB, debtor risk analysis, anti-fraud analysis, credit insurance and debt recovery. A detailed dashboard will provide a clear overview of their payments landscape. Founded in 2019 in Paris by co-founders Clement Carrier and Vincent Folny, as ex-freelancers themselves they understood the pain of waiting for slow payment and uncertainty of income freelancers experience. Since launching their deferred payment API in 2021, Aria scaled up quickly to become the leading provider of deferred payments for the contingent workforce platforms in Europe. Aria is working with over 100 platforms to solve the payment gap between when suppliers need to get paid and when buyers want to pay for goods and services. Aria integrates directly into the platform's systems enabling instant direct payments to suppliers across Europe and allowing buyers up to 90 days to pay for services and goods. Over the last 12 months, on the back of growth in France and their UK launch, Aria has now processed over 0.5 Bn€ in payments for over 30k businesses and freelancers with invoices ranging from €500 to €20,000. Aria is supported by a €150m facility from several investors including M&G Investments to advance payments. Aria has partnered with Europe’s largest freelance platforms and marketplaces such as Malt, Brigad and Jump which are now being funded across Europe. Clément Carrier added: “While B2B payment volume is 5x the size of B2C retail payments, only 7% of B2B commerce is transacted online. Aria replaces the outdated method of B2B payments with an online experience that closely resembles B2C. With Aria’s suite of tools, companies can process any payment method, offer flexible net terms financing, and get paid instantly — all in one online platform. Buyers have the flexibility to pay like they would on a consumer website, transacting in a few clicks.” Michael McFadgen, Partner at 13books Capital, commented: “There is so much to like about Aria it’s hard to know where to start. Amazing team, exceptional growth, clear PMF across multiple verticals, highly capital efficient – they have it all. We’re very, very pleased they chose 13books as their partner for the next phase of growth and we look forward to supporting them.” The team at Aria are on a mission to help fully digitise B2B trade by bringing business payments and financing solutions online and closer to them, reducing friction in the buying process. Stefan Grabmann, Principal at Adevinta Ventures added: “Aria has developed a powerful solution enabling businesses and freelancers to receive payments on their own terms. We believe that the future of B2B marketplaces is fintech-enabled, and Aria is spearheading this transformation across Europe.” About Aria Aria is a B2B deferred payment infrastructure for the platform economy. It enables marketplaces, Transactional SaaS & ERPs companies to improve their growth by offering instant payments to their providers while maintaining cash flow until their customer has paid. Founded in 2019 in Paris by co-founders Clement Carrier and Vincent Folny. Since launching their deferred payment API, Aria has grown rapidly across Europe, to become the leading provider of deferred payment for contingent workforce platforms, working with the largest freelance platforms and marketplaces such as Malt, Brigad, StaffMe or Jump. For more information please visit https://www.helloaria.eu/en or follow via LinkedIn. About 13bookscapital 13books Capital invests in tomorrow’s financial technology. Founded in 2019 with a mission to back bold founders creating the world-changing financial technology of tomorrow, 13books Capital has invested $130 million in Europe's best fintech founders. Coupled with the experience and knowledge of its network, 13books Capital backs the journey of founders to realise their ambitions to scale globally. About Adevinta Ventures Adevinta Ventures is the investment arm of Adevinta, a leading online classifieds group and champion of sustainable commerce with a focus on Europe. Adevinta Ventures invests in start-ups in the marketplace technology space - giving promising ventures a leg-up whilst boosting economic prosperity in the sector. By leveraging the leading positions of Adevinta's brands (e.g. InfoJobs, leboncoin, Kleinanzeigen, Mobile.de, Fotocasa, Coches.net, Subito, Marktplaats) Adevinta Ventures adds strong value and is a long-term partner to its portfolio companies. Find out more at Adevinta.com/ventures. Contact Details Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.helloaria.eu/en

December 12, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Contract Management Institute Announces New Governance Board

National Contract Management Association

National Contract Management Association’s (NCMA) Contract Management Institute (CMI), an institution dedicated to advancing the profession of contract management is thrilled to introduce its newly appointed Governance Board for the 2023-2024 term. These accomplished professionals will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of CMI and ensuring the organization's success. "Having had the privilege of working alongside these distinguished professionals throughout my career, I am absolutely thrilled and deeply proud to welcome them to the newly revitalized CMI," stated CMI's Executive Director and former Department of Homeland Security Chief Procurement Officer, Soraya Correa. "Their exceptional expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to our shared vision, and I look forward to the extraordinary journey ahead." NCMA Chief Executive Officer, Kraig Conrad will become the Board Chair for CMI. He expressed his excitement, saying, "I am delighted and honored to serve as Chair for the Institute. CMI is poised to become an important extension of NCMA, providing valuable resources to elevate our profession. I look forward to our journey together and the positive impact we will make." Denyce Carter, the current Board Chair of NCMA, will be joining Kraig Conrad as a distinguished addition and Vice Chair to the CMI board. She said, "I look forward to being part of an initiative that identifies and creates ways to enhance contract management practices, ultimately improving the profession for the workforce and the broader acquisition community." Along with Mr. Conrad and Ms. Carter, the Governance Board includes several accomplished professionals – including three NCMA past Presidents – that bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the CMI board, representing a diverse range of organizations from government agencies and industry leaders to top consulting firms. The full list includes: Amanda Christian, Senior Vice President of Subcontracts and Procurement at CACI International Inc. She is responsible for setting direction, policy, and procedures based upon corporate-level strategy, and ensuring that procurement and subcontracts personnel provide value and contribute to the overall success of the company. Amanda is a Past-President of NCMA and served on its Board of Directors for seven years. She is a Fellow and currently serves on the Board of Advisors. Alan Chvotkin, Partner at Centre Law Group where he specializes in federal government contracts law and its policies and practices, including counseling companies on a wide range of matters from contract formation and performance through disputes and claims. Mr. Chvotkin is a Fellow of NCMA and currently serves on its Board of Advisors. Kim Denver, Senior Vice President and Chief Contracts Executive at Leidos, leads a team of over 250 contracts professionals, overseeing a diverse portfolio of thousands of active contracts, and previously held a key role as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Procurement. Mr. Denver currently serves on NCMA’s Board of Advisors. Wendy Masiello is currently an independent consultant, having retired from the U.S. Air Force as a three-star general in July 2017. During her 36-year career with the Air Force, she served as director of the Defense Contract Management Agency; deputy assistant secretary (contracting), Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition; and program executive officer for the Air Force’s $30 billion service acquisition portfolio. She is an NCMA Past-President, and currently a member of the Board of Directors for KBR Inc. and Board of Advisors for NCMA and the Public Spend Forum Debra Scheider is Vice President, Corporate Contracts for Lockheed Martin Corporation. She is responsible for leading the Corporations Contracting, Industrial Development, and Estimating work encompassing policies, strategies, training, and procedures across the Corporation. Ms. Scheider is Past-President of NCMA and served on its Board of Directors for nine years. She is a Fellow of NCMA and currently serves on the Board of Advisors. She is a Director for the Procurement Round Table. Karla Smith Jackson, currently serving as the Senior Procurement Executive, Deputy Chief Acquisition Officer, and Assistant Administrator for Procurement at NASA, is a seasoned professional with extensive expertise with more than three decades of federal contracting experience. Her noteworthy background is in program management, acquisition, and contract planning. She is currently a member of the NCMA Board of Directors. Charlie Williams, President, CWilliams, LLC., held a number of pivotal roles that significantly contributed to the field of contract management., Notably, he served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Contracting for the United States Air Force, Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), Commissioner on the Section 809 Panel, President of the NCMA Board of Directors, Chair of the NCMA Standards Consensus Body, a valued member of the NCMA Board of Advisors, and a distinguished Member of the NASA Advisory Council. CMI is dedicated to fostering excellence in contract management by conducting research, studies, and analyses that promote engagement, standards, professional development, and enhanced business practices. The new Governance Board will play a pivotal role in guiding the organization's strategic direction and ensuring the continued growth and success of CMI. For more information about the Institute and its Governance Board, please visit ncmahq.org/cmi. The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) – www.ncmahq.org – stands as the premier contract management organization whose mission is to collaborate towards a globally recognized contract management profession that strengthens its nexus with related acquisition communities. Serving approximately 20,000 members in both the public and private sectors, NCMA propels the growth, advancement, and impact of practitioners through a steadfast commitment to serve through the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. Contact Details National Contract Management Association Holly DeHesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org

December 12, 2023 05:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Innovator Ridima Jain Forges Compassionate Futures in Industrial Design

Ridima Jain

Ridima Jain, an acclaimed Industrial and Lighting designer, is captivating the world with her groundbreaking approach to design. Born in India and holding a Master's degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, Jain's work transcends boundaries, merging nature and culture seamlessly to create spaces that enhance human experiences. As a founding member of the Women in Design NYC Chapter of IDSA and a Visiting Associate Professor at Pratt Institute, Ridima Jain is not only shaping the future of design but also sharing her expertise with the next generation of designers. Her educational journey spans design schools in India, Germany, and the United States. This diverse experience positions her as a unique generalist in the design world, enabling her to make profound contributions across various domains. The centerpiece of Jain's portfolio is her graduate thesis at Pratt Institute, where she revolutionized the concept of window blinds. Her design extends beyond conventional uses, ingeniously channeling daylight deeper into interior spaces. This innovation not only enhances the aesthetic but also positively influences physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Jain's commitment to healing environments is evident in her Emergency Housing Module, featured at Prototypes for Humanity in Dubai. The use of translucent Kalwall panels in these modular homes ensures a continuous interplay of light and space, offering comfort and maintaining circadian rhythms for individuals recovering from traumatic events. Jain's expertise extends into critical, life-saving designs with her Zero Light Tourniquet. Created for use in zero-light conditions, this product is a testament to her ability to address extreme challenges through design. It combines thermal detection and an automatic pneumatic braid system, significantly aiding medics in identifying and treating injuries in the absence of light, showcasing her versatility and commitment to impactful design solutions. Through her role as a co-creator and instructor of the Equatorial Living Lab, Jain shares her design philosophy with a broader audience. In this innovative four-semester project, students from two continents collaborate on low-cost housing in developing nations' equatorial climates. Jain, alongside Kevin Walz, guides students in blending historical and indigenous wisdom to create nurturing environments, focusing on innovation with local materials, fostering community and advocacy for quality of life. The first semester saw students delve into the history of low-cost housing, sustainable materials, and indigenous construction methods, culminating in an open-source online repository of their findings, designs, and construction documents. Jain’s unorthodox perspective in architecture enables her to critique and improve upon existing space designs. Her holistic view allows for innovative solutions that address both the physical and psychological aspects of living environments. For Ridima, the essence of design lies in its impact. "Making a positive impact on people’s lives, changing the way they interact with their environments and the people around them, " she asserts, is the core of her design ethos. Ridima believes that the spaces we inhabit profoundly influence our behavior, placing a significant responsibility on designers to create environments that promote positivity and sustainability. For further information, please visit www.ridimajain.com. About Ridima Jain Ridima Jain is an Industrial and Lighting designer known for her innovative approach to design that seamlessly blends nature and culture. With a Master’s degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute, she has made significant contributions to the field, with a focus on enhancing human experiences through thoughtful and impactful design solutions. As a trailblazer in the world of industrial and lighting design, Ridima continues to inspire and shape the future of design through her work, teaching, and advocacy. Contact Details Ridima Jain Ridima Jain rjain36@pratt.edu Company Website https://www.ridimajain.com/

December 11, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Minuteman Press Franchise Review: King's Lynn Owners Paula & Keith Boyce Share Key Lessons Learned & Growth Insights for 2024

Minuteman Press International Inc

For nearly two decades, Paula and Keith Boyce have been the dynamic duo behind the Minuteman Press franchise in the vibrant town of King's Lynn, Norfolk, UK. Their journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, transforming their business from a traditional high street print shop into a cutting-edge powerhouse, delivering ingenious print solutions to a roster of prestigious corporate clients. The highlight of their journey came in 2021 when they received the coveted invitation to join the Minuteman Press International President’s Club, a testament to their unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. Keith Boyce shares the nearly 20-year journey of Minuteman Press in King’s Lynn as well as the key lessons learned, growth insights for 2024, and advice for other owners. History of the Business According to Keith Boyce, “it all began in 2004 with the introduction to Minuteman Press International’s invaluable network of suppliers and partners.” With a focus on marketing, the Boyces conquered new markets, concentrating on delivering unparalleled service that shifted the conversation from price to value. This blueprint for success has powered year after year of remarkable growth, with one notable exception—2021 (during the height of the pandemic). So, what makes Minuteman King’s Lynn such a tour de force? Keith shares, “The system isn't a rigid framework; it's a catalyst for innovation. The transition from the bustling High Street to our present location at 12 Campbells Business Park was a thrilling exercise in adaptability, rooted in Minuteman Press' fundamental principles. Through open channels of communication, our entire team embraced opportunities.” Keith continues, “Then came the curveball – COVID-19. The world changed overnight, and our customers needed novel ways to engage with clients and expand their online presence. We already had a head start serving this market and seized this unique moment, igniting a spark of reinvention in the business, setting us apart from the competition. The reward? A robust financial position to propel us through this thrilling metamorphosis.” Growing the Business Today Today, Keith shares, “Our business is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Traditional core products still make up 50% of our operations. However, more recently in 2023 we took a bold leap forward by acquiring an apparel company. The remaining 50% is a whirlwind of online services, with virtual shops, print-on-demand, fulfilment, and drop-shipping at the forefront. These cutting-edge solutions are on everyone's lips as they adapt to the evolving business landscape. In 2023 and beyond, we are elated to provide ‘managed print services’ to 10 customers, with grand plans to expand to 20 in the coming year. The magic lies in the fact that our relationships with these customers evolve into vital partnerships, creating a vibrant ecosystem of success and learning.” What's next for Minuteman Press in King’s Lynn? Keith says, “Thankfully, the close-knit team and deep customer connections put us in a unique position. We know our customers inside and out, and partner ourselves with industry leaders. It's about weaving all these threads into a tapestry of opportunity. The market may throw curveballs, but we have pumped up the excitement in 2023 and heading into 2024 with a multi-channel marketing push. We are covering Google, social media, and a reinvigorated campaign to meet our existing, dormant, and new customers face to face.” Keith continues, “As Minuteman Head Office puts it, there's direct marketing, and then there's everything else! This is the fundamental tenet of our ongoing quest for year-on-year growth. We also strive to achieve this with careful consideration of our environmental footprint and the need to focus on sustainability, which is a big point of focus here in the UK.” Key Lessons Learned & Advice for Others Keith concludes by sharing, “The most gripping lessons we’ve learned in our 19-year journey are that marketing and nurturing new & existing customers is an unending adventure. It's about keeping focus on profitability and aligning your employees with stretching objectives and lofty goals. Innovating, problem solving, establishing new revenue streams, all with a view to support customers’ needs is what being a part of the franchise family is all about—boldly venturing into the unknown, setting sights high, and writing our success story, one thrilling chapter at a time.” For more information on Minuteman Press in King’s Lynn, England, visit https://minuteman.com/uk/locations/england/kings-lynn/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.co.uk Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

December 08, 2023 05:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

No Remote Identification, no flying. Remote ID Becomes Mandatory for Drone Pilots in the EU and will reshape the commercial use of drones

Dronetag

Most pilots will need drones equipped with the built-in RID feature or use RID transmitters attached to the drone body. There is not much time left to comply. In its latest official statement, EASA affirmed that RID will become mandatory for all pilots in the EU. All drones flying in the Specific category (advanced operation including BVLOS, over 25 kg drones, dropping material or flying higher than 120 meters, for example) and all drones with class marks operating in the Open category (mostly leisure drone activities and low-risk commercial activities) will be required to operate with an active and up-to-date RID system. There are two ways to satisfy this condition: flying a C-class drone with RID built-in (C1, C2, C3, C5, C6) or retrofitting older drone models with a RID module attached to the drone body. RID technologies allow authorities and any member of the public to identify drones remotely using a smartphone app or dedicated receiver. Identification data transmitted may include the drone’s serial number, operator registration number, remote pilot position or, if not available, take-off point, and drone’s location. The main goal of RID adoption is to enhance the safety of unmanned aircraft systems operations. Dronetag is Ready for the New Regulation For pilots who must purchase the required RID module for their drone to stay compliant in 2024, the Dronetag company has the solution ready. “Our Dronetag Beacon is one of the first devices listed on the EASA website as fully compliant with the new regulation,” describes Lukas Brchl, CEO of Dronetag, what his company offers. According to his words, pilots should not ignore the upcoming change: “To avoid problems that framed the start of RID in the USA earlier this year, drone operators should get their RID module in advance if they want to use their drones in 2024 safely. The production capacities of all suppliers are limited, so my only advice is to act now. Dronetag team put immense effort into scaling production to the maximum, but we already accept orders with deliveries at the end of January 2024.” Dronetag also offers an OEM solution tailored for drone manufacturers, seamlessly integrating Remote ID functionality into newly manufactured drones. The compact and cost-effective DRI module ensures immediate compliance, functioning effortlessly right out of the box. Furthermore, Dronetag extends its support to Drone manufacturers, facilitating the certification process with the EASA and guaranteeing compliance with the latest Remote ID regulations for drone sales within the EU. Devices manufactured by Dronetag offer compliance with new regulations and add advanced benefits for pilots in the form of hi-tech features such as flight logging, live flight data measuring and unmanned traffic management tools, to name a few. The Czech company offers a free, unique multiplatform application as a part of their end-to-end solution. According to customers in the US, Dronetag devices deliver one of the longest battery life on the market, packed in lightweight and miniature yet variable devices. Direct or Network RID? Based on Brchl’s recommendation, the Direct RID modules will be the most suitable devices for most pilots. In the Dronetag portfolio, such a device is called the Dronetag Beacon, which transmits identification data via Bluetooth to the drone's nearby surroundings. Professional pilots might appreciate advanced features offered by Network RID devices like Dronetag Mini, which will be compatible with U-Space operations planned in the near future. American Leader Expanding to Taiwan & Asia-Pacific Region Dronetag is currently active in more than 30 countries on four continents and is already coordinating flights across the globe. After similar FAA regulations for the USA went live in September 2023 ( Enforcement got extended for Six Months, literally hours before the rule efficiency, causing challenges for the whole drone market), Dronetag has become the leading supplier of RID devices for commercial drone operators in the USA. “Dronetag covers 70 % of RID device supplies to the American market. In November 2023, we closed a deal with the Drone Nerds, one of the leading drone distributors in the US, which strengthened our position. And we believe that even European drone pilots will find our devices handy and well-crafted,” shares Brchl. The list of recent successes goes on; Dronetag has also been selected by NATO - Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) to its program, where the most exciting innovators developing groundbreaking technologies create more than just innovation; the goal is to bring real positive social impact. Dronetag is a manufacturer of Remote Identification devices and platforms for drone pilots and manufacturers. Its add-on transmitters enrich existing drones with a Remote ID capability, while modules are used by manufacturers who built them directly into their drones' internal circuits. Dronetag devices transmit identification and location data to other airspace participants via the Dronetag App, which offers advanced fleet management tools to professional pilots. The company’s vision of safer airspace relies on innovative unmanned traffic management and digitally visible drones. Contact Details Dronetag Jan Jiroušek jan.jirousek@dronetag.cz Company Website https://dronetag.cz/

December 07, 2023 03:15 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Minuteman Press Franchise in Londonderry, NH Wins Business of the Year

Minuteman Press International Inc

For over 8 years and counting, Bob Bean has been the proud owner of the Minuteman Press franchise in Londonderry, New Hampshire located at 44 Nashua Road, Unit 18. When Bob purchased the business in October of 2015, he followed the Minuteman Press system and immediately became involved with several community groups and organizations. Thanks to Bob’s hard work and dedication, Minuteman Press in Londonderry has won the Business of the Year award from the Greater Derry Londonderry Chamber of Commerce. Bob accepted the award at the special awards dinner that was held on Oct. 12, 2023 at the Tupelo Music Hall in Derry NH. Bob shares his humble reaction to winning the award and provides his insights on the importance of being an active member of local groups in order to build relationships and generate referrals. He also talks about his journey to Minuteman Press and how his passion for helping others drives him today. What does it mean to you to win Business of the Year? H ow are you active in your community? Bob Bean: “Receiving the Business of the Year is a humbling experience. It was a surprise, I did not know that we had made such an impact in the Chamber and business community for this recognition. We have just tried to provide services to the businesses and the community to the best of our ability. It is great to be recognized and know that we are doing a good job with in the communities that we serve. I am involved in two local Chambers, member of the Rotary Club of Londonderry, and have been an active member in BNI for 8 years. I have made many connections with a lot of the non-profits in the area and work with them to help with their needs and support their functions. With the local rotary we have sponsored Christmas on the Commons, Senior High School Graduation Banners have donated to many non-profits and helped with fuel assistance during the winter months. I am also involved with the Freemasons in the state.” How would you best describe your community? Bob Bean: “ The Derry/Londonderry community are the largest two towns that are in the chamber and we have several smaller towns in the chamber also. New Hampshire does not have a lot of large metropolitan areas; it is made up more of small towns that are convenient to bordering states. Other than small businesses and small business owners, the majority of the communities are made up of people that work out of state. The people and businesses in the community are open and always look for ways to help each other when possible. As business owners, we all want to support each other and do what we can to see that we can grow and thrive.” What are some of the key ways you’ve grown your business? Bob Bean: “Networking is the key that has worked for us. Since 2015, I have been a member of the chamber and of BNI. I have always been very active in the networking area by going to meetings, ribbon-cuttings, events, and visiting businesses. We took advantage of the upgraded minuteman.com website to get some traffic through online channels. One of the other biggest ways we’ve built the business is through referrals from our customers and the organizations we work with.” What are your high-demand products and services? Bob Bean: “We have been able to provide direct mail services for many of our clients; this has been a big part of the business over the last few years especially during the pandemic. We also do a lot of marketing catalogs and Playbills for several theater groups and music groups.” What was your previous background? Why did you choose Minuteman Press? Bob Bean: “I was in the computer industry for almost 40 years. Most of my career was in management both in manufacturing and support. I was a Field Service Representative for a computer company for many years. Then, for 20 years, I was a Technical Support Manager for a supermarket chain. I chose Minuteman Press because of the research I did on the company and talking to the Regional Vice President and several store owners.” What has the support from Minuteman Press been like for you? Bob Bean: “Minuteman Press International support has been good on all levels. When I have a question, we can usually get an answer quickly. When there is an issue, support has been good at assisting in resolving the issue.” What are the biggest personal and professional rewards of owning your business? Bob Bean: “Personal and professional goals are similar in that I enjoy helping people and organizations. This business has given me the chance to connect with many more people and organizations to be able to help and give my knowledge and experience to them so that they can succeed.” What advice would you give to other business owners right now? Bob Bean: “Get involved with your local Chamber of Commerce and BNI Networking Group. These two are very critical to the growth and success of the business. Also, look into other organizations and groups like the Exchange, Rotary, Kiwanis, or whatever is in your area and local to your business. But do not just join these groups; get involved and be active in what is going on with the groups and be involved in the community. You get out of them what you put into them, so if you are active and visible then you will be the person or business that others will seek out and rely on for help and advice.” For more information on Minuteman Press in Londonderry, NH, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/nh/londonderry/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

December 06, 2023 09:10 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image
1 ... 678910 ... 118