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NAFA's 2024 Institute & Expo: Insights, Innovations and Industry Highlights

NAFA Fleet Management Association

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) recently concluded its 2024 Institute and Expo (I&E), April 22-24, in San Antonio, TX where 2100+ fleet and mobility professionals from around the globe convened to network, learn and explore the latest products and services from industry suppliers. I&E welcomed attendees from 46 states, 6 Canadian provinces and 16 countries, representing all sectors of the fleet industry including corporate, government, law enforcement, education, utility, and more. During the opening session on Monday, NAFA Board President Mikel Camnetar, CAFM, kicked off the event with an update on the association’s initiatives. The session also featured fleet professionals who achieved their Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) designation. "NAFA I&E is truly special, especially amid the dynamic growth and transformation within our industry," shared Camnetar. "Leaving I&E, we're filled with renewed curiosity, a deepened appreciation for our field and a stronger sense of community with our industry peers." Additional I&E highlights included: Keynote addresses, led by esteemed author and leadership consultant Richard Hadden, and safety expert and leader Brian Fielkow. Hadden’s keynote, “Recruiting and Retention in the New World of Work” dove into the profound changes in the world of work, offering insights and strategies for attracting, retaining and engaging a dynamic workforce in 2024 and beyond. “The Roadmap to Fleet Safety” keynote led by Fielkow, shared invaluable insights into cultivating a safety-driven environment within organizations. General Sessions packed with insights from leading OEM professionals and impactful Industry Update Keynote by Ford Pro CEO Ted Cannis. Through his Keynote, ”Ford Pro – Our Learnings: Grow Productivity, Reduce Risk,” Cannis walked attendees through the future of fleet management, covering everything from electric vehicles to operational strategies. Attendees then heard from an array of distinguished industry experts during an engaging OEM Panel Discussion. Leaders from Toyota, Stellantis, GM Envolve and Ford Pro discussed the automotive industry and its next phase of evolution that will impact every driver, in every fleet and on every road. More than 40 education sessions took place, many standing room only. The I&E education session tracks covered emerging technologies, law enforcement, operations management, strategy, sustainability, safety, DEIA, legislative advocacy and technicians. From EV integration to regulatory compliance and beyond, the I&E education tracks addressed both the diverse needs of fleet professionals and the pressing challenges shaping the industry today. NAFA also offered a specialty Technician Training Program for technicians and service professionals, filled with educational sessions and networking opportunities. The Expo featured 230+ exhibitors showcasing the latest fleet products and services. During the Innovations Showcase, attendees were invited to an interactive innovation zone on the Expo floor, where exhibiting companies displayed their exciting new products and product updates. Samsara won the People’s Choice Award for their AI-Powered Safety Solutions – a single platform for businesses’ operations data including video-based safety, vehicle telematics, apps and workflows, smart equipment and site visibility. New this year, attendees had the opportunity to interact with the latest models, electric and alternative fuel vehicles, and cutting-edge technologies behind the wheel during an immersive Ride & Drive Event, powered by Bobit. Participating automotive companies included BMW, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, PoleStar, Rivian, Stellantis, Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. The 100 Best Fleets in the Americas were crowned. The 2024 winners for each of the following categories include: Best Public Fleet: Dakota County Fleet Management, MN Best Commercial Fleet: Essential Utilities Fleet Professional of the Year Award: Kenny Stimson, Carvana Fleet Technician of the Year Award: Curtis Mullins, City of Round Rock, TX Nearly 50 participants were immersed in CAFM Live, a peer-to-peer educational event that accelerates Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) candidates’ preparation for examination and certification. NAFA also brought back Media Day, providing over a dozen companies the opportunity to present their breaking news and announcements to reporters in back-to-back press conferences. NAFA extends its gratitude for the generous support of its 2024 I&E sponsors: Bestpass Inc., FASTER Asset Solutions, Geotab, Holman, Legend Fleet Solutions, Merchants Fleet, Mitsubishi Motors, Motive, Samsara, Shell Fleet Solutions, RAM Professional, U.S. Bank Voyager, uShip Logistics, WEX, and Wheels, Inc. NAFA also extends its appreciation to its media partners for their continued support: Autosphere.ca, Automotive Fleet, Fleet Management Weekly, Modern WorkTruck Solutions, Media Coverage, and Utility Fleet Professional. Next year’s I&E will take place in Long Beach, CA on April 28-30, 2025 at the Long Beach Convention Center. To learn more about NAFA, visit: https://www.nafa.org/ NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

May 01, 2024 11:48 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Giyani Metals advances with key financing for Botswana manganese project targeting the EV industry

Giyani Metals Corp

Giyani Metals Corp (TSX-V:EMM, OTC:CATPF) CEO Danny Keating joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with news that the company is pushing quickly ahead with its flagship high-purity K. Hill manganese project in Botswana and the construction of a demonstration plant in Johannesburg. The company has drawn down the first $5.7 million of a $16 million convertible loan facility secured from South Africa's Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). In total, Keating said the company has completed a $26 million funding round, minimising shareholder dilution by combining equity and debt financing strategies. This funding supports the construction of the demonstration plant, which will play a crucial role in establishing credibility with potential customers through the production and consistent delivery of high-quality manganese. Keating said the company, focusing on the development of high-purity manganese for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, addresses a growing demand in a market predominantly dominated by Chinese production. He emphasized the strategic importance of diversifying the supply chain to include non-Chinese sources, highlighting Giyani Metals' efforts to establish Western production capabilities. Keating also touched on the forthcoming stages of the project, including a definitive feasibility study slated for 2025, which will precede final investment decisions. The strategic developments at Giyani Metals are poised to position the company favourably within the evolving EV battery component market, capitalising on legislative shifts such as the US Inflation Reduction Act, which mandates increased use of non-Chinese materials in EV batteries. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 01, 2024 10:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Strip Tinning reports 2023 results; eyes major growth with new automotive and EV technologies

Strip Tinning Holdings PLC

Strip Tinning Holdings PLC (AIM:STG) executive chairman Adam Robson joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with an overview of the company and highlights of its 2023 financial year. Founded in Birmingham 50 years ago, Strip Tinning originally manufactured copper strips for automotive demisters. Over time, it evolved into a specialist producer of connectors used in car glazing systems, integrating electronics like aerials and radar within automotive glass. Recently, the company expanded into the Battery Technologies division, targeting the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market with specialised connectors for battery packs, marking a significant diversification of its product offerings. Robson highlighted 2023 as a pivotal year, featuring robust commercial progress with a revenue of £10.8 million and an adjusted EBITDA of £0.1 million. The Glazing division, contributing the majority of sales, achieved a substantial turnaround, with gross margins increasing from 6% in 2020 to 40% in 2023. This recovery is credited to strategic adjustments made in response to external challenges like the Ukraine conflict and inflationary pressures. Additionally, the company recently secured significant new orders, bolstering its order book by 91% and promising considerable future growth. Looking ahead, Robson envisions 2025 as a transformative year for Strip Tinning, driven by these new ventures, especially in the EV and smart glass markets. A recent capital raise of £5.1 million is aimed at supporting these growth ambitions, positioning the company for a potential doubling of sales over the next three years. Contact Details Proactive UK Proactive UK +44 20 7989 0813 UKEditorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 01, 2024 10:32 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Gear Up for Safety with Airbags Save

YourUpdateTV

As the weather warms up, motorcycles become increasingly popular modes of transportation. Recently, President at Cycle Gear, Stevan Popovich, conducted a satellite media tour to talk about “Airbags Save", a national safety campaign aimed at raising awareness about innovative solutions in motorcycle safety and to share tips for safer riding experiences. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/FmNlhqh1jh4 While wearable airbag devices have been around for years, they are finally becoming attainable for the average rider. Like the airbag in cars, a wearable motorcycle airbag inflates in a fraction of a second to protect the rider in the event of a crash or impact. These airbags provide essential protection for the vital organs, including the spine, ribcage and even the neck/collarbone area, reducing up to 93% of impact force and the risk of injury. According to recent research by Darvin Research & Consulting, 42% of the U.S. adult population has a loved one that regularly rides a motorcycle. And 85% say they worry about the safety of their loved ones because they ride a motorcycle. Upon learning about wearable airbags, an overwhelming 96% expressed a desire for their loved ones to utilize this life-saving technology. Airbags Save is a multi-year effort to educate communities across the country about the evolution of motorcycle safety technology. Specifically, wearable airbags. Most people don’t know that wearable airbag technology has been around for years and protects riders every day. Here's what's essential to understand about motorcycle wearable airbags: Comfort and Wearability: They are designed as a vest, worn over clothing but under your typical riding jacket. They are engineered for comfort, ensuring that you barely notice them as you ride. Impact Absorption: In the event of deployment, the airbag envelops the torso, providing comprehensive protection. For instance, the Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 model is capable of absorbing up to 93% of the impact force, often allowing riders to escape potentially hospital-bound crashes. The often-televised motorcycle race crashes, where riders walk away without major injuries, are a testament to the airbag's protective capabilities. Types of Airbags: Two main varieties exist: Tethered: These are physically connected to the motorcycle, and if the rider is ejected from the bike, the tether initiates the inflation of the airbag. AI Algorithm-Driven: These incorporate a sophisticated internal computer system, complete with gyroscopes and accelerometers, to monitor the rider's motion 1,000 times per second. This technology is so advanced it can predict and respond to a crash faster than the rider's own reflexes. For a deeper dive into this life-preserving gear, visit CycleGear.com/airbags. Here, you can explore the various options and learn more about the advancements that are keeping riders safe on the roads. About Stevan Popovich Stevan Popovich is the President of Cycle Gear and oversees the operations of the country's largest power sports aftermarket omnichannel retailer, consisting of 165+ brick & mortar locations across over 40 states. With over 20 years of experience in the specialty outdoor sporting goods industry, Stevan began his journey as a General Manager of a small New England outdoor retail chain and has steadily advanced in the industry by mastering successful business processes and cultivating strong, trusting relationships with customers. Outside of his professional role, Stevan is an active member of the MIC Aftermarket Parts Committee and serves as a Board Member for the Right Rider Access Fund. His leadership philosophy revolves around empowering his team and ensuring accountability through managing performance outcomes. By aligning strategy with a deep understanding of the customer base, he facilitates growth and financial success. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

May 01, 2024 10:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Air|Water wraps up the largest Porsche gathering to hit Southern California

Luftgekuhlt

The second annual – and first standalone – Air|Water Porsche enthusiast show, produced by the Luftgekühlt events team, celebrated a tremendous success this weekend, with artistically curated cars attracting more than 11000 enthusiasts, who immersed themselves in the celebration of 75 years of everything Porsche. The team welcomed more than 1000 registered display cars spread throughout the 130 acre site at the Orange County Fair & Event Center. There was no shortage of discoverable experiences and aching feet. From the galleries created in the six main exhibition halls, to the off-road and rallye machines in the Action Sports Arena, the Broad Arrow Live Auction in The Hangar, and a sold-out exhibit hall featuring companies catering to the Porsche enthusiast, there was something for everybody at Air|Water. Also featured were 33 white Porsches in the Pacific Amphitheatre, custom restored builders in Park Plaza, and a barn full of vintage finds. The display cars even stretched across several expansive lots as Air|Water provided an unforgettable day for Porsche fans. In addition to spectacles such as a Porsche-powered Formula 1 car, Le Mans winners, and Pikes Peak entrants, visitors were able to meet VIPs including the show organizers and decorated racers Patrick Long and Jeff Zwart, plus Porsche Factory racers Jörg Bergmeister and Alwin Springer. While there were long lines at times for the clothing capsule and event merchandise, visitors and fans are now able to purchase any of the Air|Water items from the comfort of their sofa via luftgekuhlt.com/collections The entire Air|Water team would like to thank everybody who attended the show, the owners who displayed their cars, the brands that participated, the collectors who provided the extremely significant featured cars, and the event partners who contributed to the overall experience. It takes a village and we’re delighted to be part of yours! LUFTGEKÜHLT The next project for the team is the annual Luftgekühlt show. Dedicated purely to air-cooled Porsches and held at a unique location each year, the show has become a staple of the Porsche lifestyle calendar. Returning to Southern California in October this year, more details will be available via the Luftgekühlt social media channels and newsletter, which can be joined here: luftgekuhlt.com EDITOR’S NOTE Images from Air|Water 2024 are available here: dropbox.com/sh/zz14duvaes4t6br/AACT_4M-bs9v8lUbSqGSh6vja?dl=0 ABOUT AIR|WATER From the creators of Luftgekühlt comes the largest single-brand automotive experience to hit Southern California. Embarking on a fresh format that traces Porsche's journey from its inaugural moments to the contemporary masterpieces and most cutting-edge examples of today. For more information, visit air-water.com ABOUT LUFTGEKÜHLT In the Porsche vernacular, Luftgekühlt represents all the air-cooled cars in the manufacturer’s history, from the Pre-A 356 through the 993 model line, which ended in 1998. A true Porsche happening, Luftgekühlt is an experiential car culture event centered around a tightly curated list of historically significant or interesting cars, both street and race. There is no set formula for our events, but we're excited by cool venues, fun people, and creative expression, so you can bet those elements will always be included. The team strives to develop wild ideas that celebrate the passion we have for all things air-cooled, including exciting collaborations with likeminded people and brands. For more information, visit luftgekuhlt.com Contact Details Media Contact media@luftgekuhlt.com Company Website https://air-water.com/

May 01, 2024 05:55 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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News Release

Middle East’s $9 Billion EV Opportunity Reaffirms Potential In These Stocks

VVPR, VFS, NWTN, LCID

The Middle East, a region long known for its oil and gas riches, is transitioning to a new, more sustainable future, potentially dominated by electric vehicles. The UAE, for instance, has launched several initiatives over the past years to encourage the adoption of EVs among its residents. Strategies like the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030 aim to have around 42,000 electric cars on Dubai’s streets by the end of this decade. Currently, the UAE is ranked 7th globally and is the top country in the MENA region on the Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index (Gemrix), demonstrating the nation’s dedication to sustainable transportation and its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Like the UAE, the Saudi government has also taken significant steps to drive EV adoption, including funding infrastructure. Since 2021, the Saudi Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Development Initiative (SEVCIDI) has been working towards a goal of installing 50,000 domestic charging stations by 2025. According to analysts, EV adoption will gain major momentum in the Middle East thanks to growing tech-savvy urban hubs in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, in addition to a significant drop in the cost of EVs over the past years. With EV sales looking set to continue ramping up, here are four stocks that seem well positioned to capitalize on the region’s growth. VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR), a sustainable energy solutions (SES) company, is on a mission to make the cost of owning an EV much more affordable without compromising on any of the features. The company’s flagship subsidiary, Tembo e-LV, supplies conversion kits containing all the parts needed to convert a vehicle from an internal combustion engine to electric. These parts include the batteries, an e-motor, a reduction box, a charger, software, and many other components that make the converted vehicle work safely and seamlessly. In essence, the Tembo electric utility vehicle (EUV) conversion kits will transform new and second-hand diesel-powered 4x4 LandCruiser and Hilux vehicles into ruggedized EUVs that can operate in the harshest of terrains, like in mining and other industrial applications. Tembo’s conversion kits have seen significant interest from not only the Middle East but also the African market, as illustrated by its recent securing of a commitment of 5000+ kits and an order pipeline of 10,000+ kits. Those included an MOU in Jordan for 1,000 kits, opening a path to the Middle East, which is the largest Landcruiser market, and a definitive agreement in Kenya for 4,000 kits, providing entry into second-hand vehicle segments, which expands the company’s addressable market. To put the opportunity in context, the Middle East and Africa EV markets were worth about $3.33 billion in 2024 and are expected to reach $9.42 billion by 2029, representing a CAGR of 23.20%, according to research from Mordor Intelligence. VVPR is well positioned to capitalize on this growth and has what could possibly be one of the best backers to help advance in the region. That is because earlier this month, Vivo received a direct investment of $10 million into Tembo at a pre-money valuation of $120 million, from a private investment office of a member of the ruling Al Maktoum family of Dubai. At the moment, VVPR has a market cap of about $12.5 million, which implies that its valuation has significant upside potential even without taking into account its other subsidiaries, which it is divesting from. Just this week, VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) announced that it entered into a definitive asset sale agreement for the sale of one of its non-core business units, Kenshaw Electrical, to ARA Group Limited, a leading diversified industrial services group based in Australia, for a total of A$5 million. This follows another announcement that it would spin off the majority of its Caret business unit’s portfolio, representing up to ten solar projects totaling 586 MW-DC at varying stages of development. This is in line with VivoPower’s previously announced strategy to focus on reinvesting in its strong growth businesses, including Tembo. It is also important to note that Tembo will be going public via a merger with Nasdaq-listed SPAC Cactus Acquisition Corp. (CCTS). CCTS will issue 83.8 million shares in exchange for Tembo shares at $10 per CCTS share, which corresponds to a pre-money indicative equity valuation of Tembo of $838 million. VivoPower shareholders will get 5 Tembo shares worth $10 each for every share held, in addition to a special dividend at $1 per share, translating to another $5 per VivoPower share held. This deal has the potential to unlock significant shareholder value since even if the Tembo share price upon IPO is only $1, this implies a per share valuation for VVPR of $28, including the value of dividend shares. VinFast Auto Ltd. (NASDAQ:VFS) marked a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy by entering into a dealer sales agreement with Bahwan Automobiles Trading LLC (BAT) for the distribution of electric vehicles (EVs) in Oman. This collaboration not only introduces VinFast's presence in the Middle East but also underscores the company's commitment to promoting green mobility solutions worldwide. The deal follows an Initial Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation signed at the COP 28 conference in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2023. It makes BAT the official dealer of VinFast in Oman. Under the agreement, BAT is to establish 13 VinFast stores and service locations over the next three years. The first store is expected to launch in mid-2024, with vehicle sales commencing shortly after. VinFast will also collaborate with BAT to introduce four e-SUV models in the Omani market: VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, and VF 9. Mr. Ta Xuan Hien, CEO of VinFast Middle East, said: "Oman presents a promising market for electric vehicles, as consumers in the nation demonstrate a growing interest in sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. We are confident that this dealer sales agreement with BAT, a leading and highly reputable dealer in Oman, will empower VinFast to swiftly establish a presence in the market and provide customers in the country with the most diverse and high-quality selection of electric vehicles available." NWTN (NASDAQ:NWTN) is a Dubai-based pioneering green energy company dedicated to providing passenger-focused, premium electric vehicle products and green energy solutions to customers worldwide. The company has a full vehicle assembly facility in Abu Dhabi. In January this year, NWTN’s strategic partner, W Motors, a leading manufacturer of high-performance luxury cars in the Middle East, signed a partnership agreement with Manaseer Group. Through this agreement, Manaseer Group will be the exclusive distributor for W Motors and NWTN vehicles in Jordan and the Middle East and Africa region. It will use its facilities as a factory for assembly and thereafter manufacturing operations for these new car brands, which is made possible by Manaseer’s strong presence and expertise of the Jordan market, and its commitment to providing environment-friendly solutions that combine innovation and luxury. The agreement was reached following Manaseer Group's recent participation in the Higher and Executive Committees for Integrated Industrial Partnership meeting that took place in Bahrain. Manaseer Group’s Vice Chairman Eng Abdel Rhman Obaid said: "We are proud to have represented Jordan in the Higher and Executive Committees for Integrated Industrial Partnership meeting and to contribute to the industry's development in Jordan and the region, as we believe in our role in the industrial sector empowerment.” Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) officially opened the first-ever car manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia last year, making it its second Advanced Manufacturing Plant (AMP-2) and first international plant. The facility will produce Lucid's groundbreaking electric vehicles for Saudi Arabia and export them to other markets. The AMP-2 facility received significant support from the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA), the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF), and the Economic City at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) and is expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating Saudi Arabia's strategic goal to diversify its economy. The AMP-2 facility has begun semi knocked-down (SKD) assembly and is expected to have an annual capacity of 5,000 cars. The initial operation re-assembles Lucid Air vehicle 'kits' that are pre-manufactured at the company's U.S. AMP-1 Manufacturing Facility in Casa Grande, Arizona. Lucid aims to transition AMP-2 to complete build unit (CBU) production after the middle of the decade, with an additional annual capacity of 150,000 cars. Disclaimers: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, assumptions, objectives, goals, or assumptions of future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements, indicating certain actions & quotes; may, could or might occur Understand there is no guarantee past performance is indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap or growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investor’s investment may be lost or due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. Capital Gains Report (CGR) owned by RazorPitch Inc. is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. CGR is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment advisor. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. CGR has been retained by VivoPower International PLC. to produce and distribute this content. As part of that content, readers, subscribers, and webs are expected to read the full disclaimers and financial disclosure statement that can be found on our website capitalgainsreport.com All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. CGR is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 markrmckelvie@gmail.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

May 01, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

ToolsGroup Recognized in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Supply Chain Planning Solutions

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, is proud to announce that it has been recognized in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions. Gartner Magic Quadrant research methodology provides a graphical competitive positioning of four types of technology providers in fast-growing markets: Leaders, Visionaries, Niche Players and Challengers. In the 2024 report, Gartner recognized ToolsGroup for its “ability to execute and completeness of vision.” ToolsGroup’s software solutions offer retailers, distributors and manufacturers a comprehensive set of capabilities that enhance the resilience and performance of their operations. Through a unique probabilistic planning approach that leverages AI and real-time enterprise data, ToolsGroup enables decision-making at the pace of modern business. These capabilities include proactive risk monitoring for anticipating and managing uncertainties, as well as advanced probabilistic techniques for precise demand and supply planning. Timely detection of supply chain events is also ensured through adept data latency handling, facilitating swift re-optimization. “We are honored to be once again recognized in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions,” said ToolsGroup CEO, Inna Kuznetsova. “We believe this recognition reflects our continuous efforts to drive supply chain efficiencies for our customers around the globe, making supply chain a force for good. Proud of the powerful results we deliver to our customers, we are committed to continued innovation as we expand the use of AI and decision-centric planning across the platform.” Get a complimentary copy of the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions here. This recognition in the Gartner Magic Quadrant follows ToolsGroup’s other recent recognitions in the Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer: Supply Chain Planning Solutions and as a Notable Vendor in the 2023 Mid-Market Context Magic Quadrant™ for Supply Chain Planning Solutions. Read more about these reports and download a copy. Join ToolsGroup at the Gartner conference in Orlando ToolsGroup is exhibiting at the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium in Orlando, FL May 6-8. Attendees looking to experience the latest AI-based solutions should visit Booth #817 in the Planning Village. Book a meeting with our experts today! Chris Gonzales, Vice President, Operations & Supply Chain Shelter Solutions at Cornerstone Building Brands, one of ToolsGroup’s leading customers, will present on May 6 at 4:35 pm in the Supply Chain Expo, Stage 3 - Pacific Hall, discussing how a fast growing U.S. exterior building products company is leveraging digital supply chain technology from ToolsGroup and partner River Logic to unlock value as it embarks on a fast-paced growth journey with an aggressive acquisition strategy. Gartner Disclaimer: GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner and Magic Quadrant and Peer Insights are a registered trademark, of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner Peer Insights content consists of the opinions of individual end users based on their own experiences with the vendors listed on the platform, should not be construed as statements of fact, nor do they represent the views of Gartner or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in this content nor makes any warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this content, about its accuracy or completeness, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo CSCOs and supply chain leaders are continuously confronted with increasingly complex challenges and are expected to outperform and overdeliver. Top supply chain organizations navigate through the turbulence by solving present-day issues and positioning themselves for long-term success. The Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo™ 2024 conference offers pragmatic advice and future-focused insight for supply chains to deliver now and in the future. Network with 3,000+ peers and vet new technologies at our Exhibit Showcase. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and SUPPLY CHAIN SYMPOSIUM/XPO is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. About ToolsGroup ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision-making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels and inventory – delighting customers and achieving financial and sustainability KPIs.. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.toolsgroup.com

April 30, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Ilika announces collaboration with Tata's Agratas on Goliath industrialisation programme

Ilika PLC

Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF) CEO Graeme Purdy tells Proactive's Stephen Gunnion that Agratas, Tata Group’s battery business, has joined the SiSTEM project which aims to build a 1.5MWh solid-state battery (SSB) assembly line. Purdy noted that SiSTEM was awarded a £2.7 million grant from the Advanced Propulsion Centre as part of the Automotive Transformation Fund. This grant supports the collaboration with UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UK BIC) and Mpac Group plc to develop a 1.5MW hour solid-state battery assembly line. The line will produce large format pouch cells for electric vehicles (EVs), with scale-up trials to occur at UK BIC using industry-ready equipment. Agratas' participation is primarily to evaluate and design a concept facility for implementing solid-state battery manufacturing at Gigafactory scale. Purdy views this collaboration as a significant validation of Ilika’s technology, demonstrating commercial interest in their capabilities. Additionally, a 12-month bilateral collaboration with Agratas will focus on developing a D8 prototype, a minimum viable product that will test the scalability and performance of the battery technology. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 29, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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VIVOPOWER ANNOUNCES SALE OF AUSTRALIAN CRITICAL POWER BUSINESS UNIT

VivoPower International PLC

VivoPower International PLC (Nasdaq: VVPR, "VivoPower” or the "Company”) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive asset sale agreement for the sale of one of its non-core business units, Kenshaw Electrical (“Kenshaw”), to ARA Group Limited (“ARA”), a leading diversified industrial services group based in Australia. This is in line with VivoPower’s previously announced strategy to focus on reinvesting in its strong growth businesses including Tembo. Pursuant to the terms of the asset sale agreement, VivoPower will receive approximately A$5.0m in total consideration, subject to final net working capital adjustments. The asset sale agreement is subject to customary conditions and is expected to complete on July 1, 2024. VivoPower was advised on this transaction by STS Capital Partners in Singapore. About VivoPower VivoPower is an award-winning global sustainable energy solutions B Corporation company focused on electric solutions for customised and ruggedised fleet applications, battery and microgrids, solar and critical power technology and services. The Company’s core purpose is to provide its customers with turnkey decarbonisation solutions that enable them to move toward net-zero carbon status. VivoPower has operations and personnel in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. Forward-Looking Statements This communication includes certain statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” for purposes of the U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterisations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements may include, for example, the anticipated impact that the events or transactions described in this communication may have on the Company and the expected returns therefrom. These statements are based on VivoPower’s management’s current expectations or beliefs and are subject to risk, uncertainty, and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein due to changes in economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors, and other risks and uncertainties affecting the operation of VivoPower’s business. These risks, uncertainties and contingencies include changes in business conditions, fluctuations in customer demand, changes in accounting interpretations, management of rapid growth, intensity of competition from other providers of products and services, changes in general economic conditions, geopolitical events and regulatory changes, expectations on funding from investors or M&A, and other factors set forth in VivoPower’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. The information set forth herein should be read in light of such risks. VivoPower is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise. Contact Details Shareholder Enquiries shareholders@vivopower.com Company Website https://vivopower.com/

April 29, 2024 07:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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VIVOPOWER ANNOUNCES SALE OF AUSTRALIAN CRITICAL POWER BUSINESS UNIT