Tag: 3BL

Clean beauty products are on the rise in China, driven by sustainability-minded young consumers who care about the environment and their health.

Clean beauty products, like those selected by American company The Detox Market, shun parabens, sulphates and artificial colors in favor of cruelty-free and sustainable ingredients.

The California-based seller of earth-friendly makeup, skincare and more recently launched in China through Alibaba Group’s cross-border e-commerce Tmall Global.

“We select the best of the best in the clean beauty world,” Romain Gaillard, Founder and CEO of The Detox Market, told Alizila.

The brand is part of a clean beauty market on track to be worth $87.64 billion in China by 2025, according to China-based consultancy Daxue Consulting.

Consumer activity on Tmall Global tracks this trend.

Sales by new brands in the clean beauty category rose 236% year-on-year in 2022, the platform shared in a press release in April.

“Clean beauty products have gained traction in China as the pandemic has made consumers more health-conscious,” said Lynn Dong, General Manager of Tmall Global, in an interview with Alizila.

Watch along as Dong pays a visit to The Detox Market to learn more about this booming beauty trend.

Below is a transcript of this video, edited for clarity and brevity

Lynn Dong: At Tmall Global, we are always looking to fulfill the demands and shopping needs of customers. And we not only want to support the latest trends in China but also be the leader in terms of product selection to offer the best global brands and products in these categories to our customers at home.

Romain Gaillard: Welcome to The Detox Market. The Detox Market is a curator. We were born in Abbot Kinney in Venice, California. We select the best of the best in the clean beauty world.

We believe in paying attention to ingredients and making sure that some questionable ingredients are not in the formulations that we select.

Lynn Dong: Clean beauty products have gained traction in China as the pandemic has made consumers more health-conscious. And at the same time, the pandemic has pushed many customers to re-evaluate their standards when buying beauty items.

Romain Gaillard: The China market when it comes to beauty is so interesting and so dynamic, much more dynamic actually than the US.

We want people to get educated, try the products and see clean beauty develop in a great way in China. The best possible way to reach out to the best possible client in China, we felt was through Tmall, the natural partner. On top of having a big reach, Tmall had the vision of partnering with smaller brands to bring these niche markets into a much bigger market that is China.

Lynn Dong: With the partnership between Tmall Global and The Detox Market, we can bring this unique brand to China via our platform, a one-stop solution to reach over 1 billion customers in the Alibaba ecosystem.

Additional reporting by Yashan Zhao

For more stories about Tmall Global, please go to visit the page here

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Please refer to https://www.alizila.com/esg/ for additional information about Alibaba’s sustainability efforts.

Expectation to tap into more than 100 billion euros of value in accessible and ag-adjacent markets / Unparalleled pipeline with estimated peak sales potential of more than 30 billion euros to promote regenerative agricultural practices and enable farmers to support both global food security and mitigation of climate change / Includes transformative technologies like the Preceon Smart Corn System, next-generation insect and weed control traits in corn and soybeans, hybrid wheat, direct-seeded rice, a new first-of-its-kind herbicide molecule, as well as two new fungicides / Industry-leading technologies such as alternatives to synthetic fertilizer, specialized cover crops and tools for carbon farming create upside potential and allow for productivity increases while preserving the soil and helping reduce the environmental impact of farming.

NEW YORK, July 5, 2023 /3BL/ – Bayer announced its Crop Science Division will capitalize on opportunities presented by the shift to regenerative agriculture to grow in adjacent markets in addition to its core business of seeds, traits, crop protection and digital. At its 2023 Innovation Summit, the company identified growth potential in segments like crop fertility, biologicals, biofuels, carbon farming, precision application services as well as digital platforms and marketplaces, all of which are serving the needs of agriculture. Overall, the company expects to access more than 100 billion euros in these adjacent markets annually, in effect doubling the division’s potential market which today stands at more than 100 billion euro for the core portfolio alone. Importantly, by the middle of the next decade, Bayer envisions shaping regenerative agriculture on more than 400 million acres, built on the foundation of its leading agriculture input solutions.

This endeavor, in combination with the division’s leading seeds, traits and crop protection R&D pipeline were showcased in New York, featuring holistic system solutions the company is uniquely positioned to provide, fueling long-term growth of the company as it propels its ambitious growth plan to drive regenerative agriculture.

“We are envisioning an even broader role in agriculture. With the most powerful innovation engine in the industry and leading market positions, Bayer is uniquely set to provide the solutions that farmers need in light of food security and climate change,” said Rodrigo Santos, President of Bayer’s Crop Science Division and Member of the Board of Bayer AG. “We define regenerative agriculture as increasing food production, farm incomes and resilience in a changing climate while renewing nature. Our portfolio will deliver future innovations with regenerative agriculture at the core, and we will explore new market opportunities to further allow farmers to combine productivity, profitability, and sustainability benefits.”

Focus on solutions that drive regenerative agriculture

Farmers around the globe can expect access to industry-leading innovations that not only deliver yield improvements, but which can also regenerate soil and minimize the impact of farming on the climate and broader environment – tailored to the different crops. On the farm of the future, the terabytes of data captured from the field as well as the tons of carbon dioxide sequestered, will be as important to the farmer as the yield that each field produces. Going forward, Bayer will focus its investment on solutions that deliver important pillars of regenerative agriculture. This includes improved productivity, social and economic wellbeing of farmers and communities, conservation of water, mitigation of climate change, improved soil health as well as preservation and restoration of biodiversity.

To this end, Bayer’s core portfolio of crop protection, seeds and traits and digital products is best positioned to grow, and significant advancements are being made annually. The company is investing in its industry-leading pipeline to accelerate the delivery of solutions that growers need. Late-stage transformative technologies are being combined with the annual refresh of the global seed portfolio and the addition of hundreds of new product registrations and formulations every year.

Industry-leading pipeline delivers on the transformation of agriculture

In 2022, 15 projects advanced, including new crop protection active ingredients, new seed traits and digital models. Bayer refreshed its seed portfolio with 500 new hybrid and variety deployments and its crop protection portfolio with 10 new formulation launches and more than 250 new registrations. The R&D investment of 2.6 billion euros before special items in 2022 continues to advance a pipeline with an estimated peak sales potential of more than 30 billion euros, half of which are incremental to the existing base.

“A bold vision takes a bold investment. It takes all five of our innovation platforms – breeding, biotechnology, chemistry, biologicals and data science – to power this pipeline. But it is far more than these platforms alone. It is the convergence of the innovations that allows us to generate system solutions to solve our most pressing challenges,” said 
Dr. Robert Reiter, Head of R&D at Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Farmers need the best genetics with best-in-class traits, they need data-driven planting scripts to know when and where to plant those crops. And they need lower impact small molecule crop protection paired with late-season biological solutions and precision applications to sustainably protect those crops. We have a deep and proud history of successfully converting these engines into viable, valuable products for growers.”

Bayer’s R&D pipeline includes several exciting and new technologies:

· Designer Seeds and Next Generation Breeding Technology: 
With its unmatched germplasm library, Bayer is advancing existing breeding technologies while also developing the next generation of tools like gene editing to create designer seeds for growers in crops like corn, soybeans, cotton and vegetables. The precision breeding program helps to improve both yield and efficiency for farmers, using AI technology to develop the right seeds for the right conditions. In addition, the company is hybridizing staple crops like rice and wheat, to improve their productivity and sustainability. Direct seeded rice has the potential to transform rice production, significantly reducing water consumption while increasing yields. Initial trials under the Bayer Direct Acres program are underway in India.

· Transformative Trait Technologies: 
The company is expanding its industry-leading expertise into new spaces, like the Preceon Smart Corn System, offering reduced plant height which brings multiple benefits to the farmer. This includes reducing the risk of losses from high wind, season-long access for more precise use of crop protection products and nutrient applications and the potential to optimize inputs, planting populations and field placement through digital tools. The system approach includes digital tools to support planting and showcases the transition from selling inputs to selling solutions. The first generation of short-stature corn to launch was developed via plant breeding and the next generation, expected mid-to-late this decade, was created using plant biotechnology and will expand the reach to more hybrids and acres. Earlier this month, the USDA completed the review of the biotech short-stature corn trait which will help advance through the approval process going forward. With the expertise in protein optimization technology, RNAi technology and biotech, Bayer is able to stack new trait technologies like short-stature corn with current and next-generation insect-control traits like its third-generation corn rootworm trait, to allow farmers to reap the benefits of insect and weed control with this shorter stature product. Other value-driving examples are Bayer’s insect and herbicide tolerant soybean varieties with multiple modes of action for Brazil, which are essential to manage the changing pest and weed resistance challenges typical in a tropical environment.

· Sustainable Small Molecules: 
New approaches to crop protection are expected to shape the industry in future. This includes development of an entirely new herbicide mode-of-action for broadacre weed control, the first in the industry for over three decades. This molecule has demonstrated effective control of key resistant grasses in research and is expected to be commercialized towards the end of this decade. Further examples include a new broad-spectrum fungicide for cereals, corn, fruits and vegetables with blockbuster potential in research phase 3 and a new mode of action broad-spectrum horticulture fungicide in research phase 2 with opportunities to extend to cereals and oil seed rape. Artificial Intelligence helps Bayer design the next generation of crop protection, putting sustainability and environmental impact reduction at the core. New products will enable farmers to tailor and target use in specific ways, for example by using PROTAC technology which is being co-developed with Oerth Bio that is designed to interact with only one target protein and safeguard beneficial organisms. Bayer is also optimizing application of existing chemicals through digital and AI technologies.

Bayer’s innovation engines will power agricultural evolution by equipping farmers with the tools, technologies, and options they need for the future of regenerative agriculture. Precision bred seed products will offer significant acceleration for the genetic gain of yield potential and will be protected by game-changing traits that enable no-till farming to improve soil health. Combined with innovative small molecules and biological solutions that can protect biodiversity and offer low to no-residue solutions, and verified soil improvements through digital tools and technologies, Bayer will shape the future of regenerative agriculture.

Bayer to expand into new accessible ag-adjacent markets

Beyond this core, Bayer is strongly positioned to expand into new market opportunities adjacent to its core offerings, for instance:

· Crop Fertility and Biological Breakthroughs: 
Biologically based nitrogen-fixation technologies can help farmers grow more with less, reducing emissions and costs for farmers in crops like corn and wheat. The potential biodiversity and soil health benefits from reduced synthetic nitrogen use are significant, and the company’s early-stage technology holds great promise. With late season application of biological-based crop protection for insect and disease control, the company also sees opportunities for reduced residues in fruit and vegetable production, an attribute increasingly desired by consumers. As market leaders in biologicals with products like Serenade, and through its open innovation partnerships with Gingko Bioworks, Kimitec, M2i and AlphaBio, Bayer is well positioned in this critical, rapidly growing space and has the ambition to reach more than 1.5 billion euros in sales by 2035.

· Biofuels: 
Cover crops help farmers protect their fields in a sustainable way, promoting soil health. CoverCress, in which Bayer is the majority share owner, will open additional revenue streams from the sale of the same-named cover crop to biofuel makers. Oil extracted from CoverCress is designed to achieve a lower carbon intensity score and can be made into renewable fuels without competing against food crops, due to its planting in between seasons. With more uptake, there is significant market opportunity for this sustainable crop.

· Digital value chain: 
Advancements in precision agriculture and digital farming technology are helping farmers maximize the productivity and sustainability of their land and agricultural practices. Climate FieldView has become an essential decision tool with subscriptions on more than 220 million crop acres globally. In addition to delivering real-time agronomic insights to farmers, it also serves as the digital platform delivering tailored solutions like the Preceon Smart Corn System, combining Bayer’s new short-stature corn hybrids with digital recommendations tailored to our customers’ fields and performance goals. Beyond the farm, FieldView is the gateway to creating value chain solutions, serving as the system of record for our customers’ climate-smart farming practices and powering Bayer’s global carbon programs, including Bayer’s ForGround platform in the US. Earlier this year, the company unveiled new cloud-based enterprise solutions: Bayer AgPowered Services, powered by the new Microsoft Azure Data Manager for Agriculture, offering a suite of advanced digital capabilities and robust digital infrastructure to accelerate innovation in the food and agriculture industries. Building from the new cloud offerings, innovators and companies across the farm and food value chains can accelerate their speed to value for customers, bring greater transparency to consumers, and deliver increased opportunity for farmers.

· Carbon Farming: 
Bayer is a leading provider of solutions and platforms that support farmers in removing carbon from the atmosphere and reduce their emissions. No-till farming enabled by herbicide tolerant traits and the use of cover crops can help improve soil health, reduce soil erosion, and cut carbon emissions. As an added benefit, Bayer’s Carbon Initiative opens new revenue streams to farmers by connecting them to the global carbon markets.

Rodrigo Santos added: “Bayer is well positioned to lead in the regenerative agriculture space due to our emphasis in digital transformation, commitment to innovation and strong partnerships. Our aim is to transform agriculture to be more productive, more sustainable, and have a net positive impact on the environment.”

About Bayer 
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. Its products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2022, the Group employed around 101,000 people and had sales of 50.7 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 6.2 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.

Follow us on twitter.com/bayer

Forward-Looking Statements 
This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer’s public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

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(Florida State Parks Foundation issued the following news release today.)

Trailer will support Florida State Parks strike teams and recovery efforts across the state

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., July 5, 2023 /3BL/ – The Florida State Parks Foundation and Duke Energy Florida have teamed up to provide a new trailer and equipment that will allow Florida State Parks’ strike and recovery teams to efficiently mobilize and respond to major storms and other severe weather events.

The trailer, purchased through a $50,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation, is based in Lake Kissimmee State Park but will be available for deployment wherever necessary. The 2023 hurricane season began on June 1 and will run through Nov. 30.

“Florida State Parks strike teams are brave, skilled and resourceful, and our state parks are fortunate to have these dedicated people on the scene after major storms,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation. “The Foundation is proud to support these amazing men and women and make their difficult jobs just a little bit easier.”

Florida State Parks strike teams are composed of park managers, rangers, specialists and volunteers who travel from their home parks to aid parks in need of assistance. Strike teams may remove downed trees and heavy debris, clear roads and support park staff directly affected by a storm. They also often assist partner agencies in recovery efforts.

After Hurricane Ian made landfall in Southwest Florida last fall, strike teams from across the state worked in shifts to help parks safely manage storm damage and reopen as quickly as possible.

“Our strike teams are some of the finest in the world. We count on them to do whatever is necessary for our parks following a storm, and they always deliver,” said Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher. “We are grateful to the Florida State Parks Foundation and Duke Energy Florida for recognizing what our strike teams do for the state of Florida, and for helping them continue to do what they do best.”

The Florida State Parks Foundation last fall provided a $50,000 relief fund for Florida State Parks staff and volunteers who suffered extensive hardship from Hurricane Ian. The funds were distributed in increments of $1,000 and were available just days after the storm made impact.

The Foundation has previously joined with Duke Energy Florida on a variety of park improvement, accessibility and sustainability projects, including major contributions to the Foundation’s Greener Initiative. Since, 2021, Duke Energy Florida has worked with the Foundation to provide $325,000 to Florida’s state parks.

“We love collaborating with the Florida State Parks Foundation, and it is an honor to work together to support hurricane recovery in our state parks,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “These strike team workers are inspiring in their selflessness and commitment, and we are glad that we can support them with this new trailer.”

###

The Florida State Parks Foundation, founded in 1993 as Friends of Florida State Parks and renamed in 2018, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation whose mission is to support and help sustain the Florida Park Service, its 175 award-winning parks and trails, local Friends groups and more than 20,000 park volunteers.

It does this through programs that preserve and protect state parks, educate visitors about the value of state parks, encourage community engagement and active use of state parks, and advocacy. The volunteer Board of Directors represents private and public sectors as well as local and statewide interests. This project has been completed by the Florida State Parks Foundation Services LLC, which is a limited liability company affiliate of the Foundation.

Media contact for Duke Energy: Audrey Stasko
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AudreyS 

Media contact for Florida State Parks Foundation: Tim Linafelt
Phone: 850.566.6118
Email: tim@floridastateparksfoundation.org

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Whirlpool Corporation announced today that Emma Jean Hull Flats, an 80-unit waterfront development in Benton Harbor, Mich., where the company was founded and is headquartered, has officially opened. The project is the newest apartment building in the city, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Whirlpool Corp. Chairman and CEO Marc Bitzer, City of Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad and former Mayor of Benton Harbor Emma Jean Hull. The Emma Jean Hull Flats development is expected to attract new residents and businesses to the city.

In August 2022, Whirlpool Corp. announced the building would be named after former Benton Harbor Mayor Emma Jean Hull, who served as Mayor from 1991-1997 and is known as the catalyst to the revitalization of the city. Hull’s legacy and the rich history of Benton Harbor are celebrated throughout the building’s interior with works from local artists, historical pictures and gathering rooms named for prominent historical local figures.

“We’re excited to see the vision of the Emma Jean Hull Flats become a reality,” said Marcus Muhammad, mayor of Benton Harbor. “This building is part of the city’s master plan and will have a positive financial impact on Benton Harbor by adding new, permanent residents to our community.”

The apartment units are available to everyone but require residents to be permanent Benton Harbor residents for the duration of the minimum 12 month lease. Some of the units are reserved for “Hometown Heroes,” public service workers such as teachers and first responders.

Expanding high-quality, market-rate housing in Benton Harbor to attract new residents to be part of the community is consistent with the city’s comprehensive development plan and Whirlpool Corp.’s ongoing work through our racial equality pledge.

“The building itself and unique programs like Hometown Heroes were developed from valuable input from the city’s officials. It was important to everyone involved that the complex be connected to the community,” said Marc Bitzer, chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corp. “Expanding high-quality, market-rate housing in Benton Harbor to attract new residents to be part of the community is consistent with the city’s comprehensive development plan and Whirlpool Corp.’s ongoing work through our racial equality pledge.”

Emma Jean Hull Flats offers world-class amenities including an exercise facility, rooftop terrace and meeting rooms, energy-efficient Whirlpool brand appliances, wood-style flooring, a dog park, wifi and Juliet balconies. It’s conveniently located to enjoy a plethora of Southwest Michigan recreation opportunities, unique dining experiences, lively entertainment venues, and daily conveniences within walking distance.

Through a partnership with Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment LLC, Whirlpool Corporation plans to invest more than $20 million to construct the multi-family development in the city of Benton Harbor with the support of the Michigan Strategic Fund.

“We applaud Whirlpool Corporation’s continued investment in southwest Michigan as we work to jumpstart our economy,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “This innovative approach to solving a critical workforce housing gap is a win for Whirlpool in attracting top talent, a win for the community, bringing increased density and revenue to small businesses in downtown Benton Harbor and a win for people who need and deserve quality, attainable housing in the place they live, work and play.”

Whirlpool Corporation announced plans for the multi-family housing development in June following Michigan Strategic Fund approval of a Michigan Community Revitalization Program performance-based grant in the amount of $750,000 for the project and relevant road improvements.

“This project would not be possible without the collaboration of so many, including Mayor Muhammad and the City of Benton Harbor, the Benton Harbor Planning Commission, the MEDC and Cornerstone Alliance, and is a testament to what we can accomplish when we all work together to achieve our shared goals,” said Whirlpool Corporation Chairman and CEO Marc Bitzer. “By working with our communities on projects such as this one, we can all benefit, and are all collectively more successful as a result.”

For more information, visit emmajhullflats.com or call the leasing office directly at (269) 281-4546.

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With the annual stock-take on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) taking place in New York next month, GRI is supporting two side-events that will put the spotlight on the central role of sustainability reporting data in driving SDGs progress.

This year’s High-level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development takes place 10-19 July, under the theme ‘Accelerating the recovery from COVID-19 and the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda.’ It will see in-depth reviews on Goals 6: clean water and sanitation, Goal 7: affordable and clean energy, Goal 9: industry, innovation and infrastructure, Goal 11: sustainable cities and communities, and Goal 17: partnerships for the Goals.

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and partner organizations are hosting the following official HLPF side sessions, which will be available online, with free places open now for registration.

Enhancing policy for sustainable development through transparency (11 July, 14:00 CEST / 08:00 ET)

Given the critical role of private sector data in tracking progress on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, this session will explore the growth in legislative initiatives to make sustainability data available, through both mandatory and voluntary disclosure requirements.

Data analysis from the expanded version of Carrots & Sticks will be shared – the world’s most comprehensive ESG and sustainability policy database – with contributions from GRI alongside C&S partner organizations, Kings College London and University of Edinburgh.

Addressing the SDG environmental data gap for water through corporate sustainability disclosure (12 July, 14:00 CEST / 08:00 ET)

Co-hosted with CDP, this virtual event will set out why consistent and robust reporting by companies on their water use and impacts is central to tackling the global water and climate crises. Expert disclosure insights will be provided by CDP and GRI, with experiences in water reporting shared by Planet Tracker and Suntory Holdings.

The discussions will include:

The need to scale up water-related transparency and disclosures;The role of quality private sector reporting in the fulfilment of SDG 6;Best practice on how water disclosure data can raise ambition and drive change.

Peter Paul van de Wijs, GRI Chief of Policy, said:

“Whether through voluntary or mandatory disclosure, companies are increasingly expected to demonstrate transparency on a wide range of sustainability issues. High-quality and comparable reporting has a central role in assessing positive and negative impacts, sharpening attention on SDGs progress. 

With under seven years to go until the completion date for the internationally-agreed 2030 Agenda, it’s clear that all stakeholders, including the private sector, need to work together to quicken momentum. As our events during HLPF will underline, achieving buy-in and increasing accountability from the private sector is essential.”

The GRI Business Leadership Forum on Corporate Reporting as a Driver for the SDGs concluded at the end of 2022. Seven summary papers were published, to share learnings from the program.

GRI provides organizations with free resources and tools on how to integrate the SDGs into reporting – including a podcast series on business action in support of the Global Goals.

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is the independent, international organization that helps businesses and other organizations take responsibility for their impacts, by providing the global common language to report those impacts. The GRI Standards are the world’s most widely used sustainability reporting standards, which are developed through a multi-stakeholder process and provided as a free public good.

Originally published by Ericsson

Caroline Berns, Head of Diversity & Inclusion and Talent Acquisition, MMEA

Welcome to the latest edition of our Diversity & Inclusion News Round up. Today we are talking about EU’s new pay transparency directive, the 4-day workweek, a TED Talk on anxiety, and a World Down Syndrome Day campaign worth watching.

Future of work

When the UK finalized their 4-day workweek pilot, over 90% of the participating companies decided to continue with the model – but for a few companies, it didn’t work out. Interesting article looking at the other side of the 4-day workweek.

Gender pay gap

According to the European Parliament, on average, women in the EU earn 13% less than men for doing the same job. On Thursday, the European Parliament approved the new EU pay transparency directive, aiming to narrow the gender pay gap. Read more here.

Mental health

“How to calm your anxiety, from a neuroscientist” is an interesting new TED Talk from Wendy Suzuki, sharing two evidence-based activities that can help to manage anxiety.

Inclusion

The 21st of March was World Down Syndrome Day. CoorDown, the Italian non-profit that promotes and protects the rights of people with Down syndrome, launched another campaign worth watching: “Ridiculous Excuses not to be Inclusive”.

About Ericsson

Ericsson is one of the leading providers of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to service providers. We enable the full value of connectivity by creating game-changing technology and services that are easy to use, adopt, and scale, making our customers successful in a fully connected world.

Our comprehensive portfolio ranges across Networks, Digital Services, Managed Services and Emerging Business; powered by 5G and IoT platforms.

SHANGHAI, July 3, 2023 /3BL/ – Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987, “Yum China” or the “Company”) announced that KFC China has hosted its latest Public Welfare Awareness Event in Hangzhou. At the event, KFC China announced the expansion of several corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that cover a wide range of areas, including supporting the disadvantaged, preserving the environment and reducing food waste. KFC China’s first Goodwill Ambassador, Olympic Champion Guo Jingjing, also attended the event.

“Giving back to society is deeply embedded in our culture. We actively support causes that can have positive impact on the communities we serve,” said Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China. “We aim to create an effective platform that inspires people to come together with a shared purpose and make a difference in our community.”

Warton Wang, General Manager of KFC China, added, “KFC China will continue leveraging its extensive restaurant network to further its social responsibility initiatives, with a particular focus on supporting the disadvantaged, promoting sustainability and climate action, as well as advocating for healthy lifestyles.”

At the event, KFC China announced the following expanded CSR initiatives:

As a joint effort between KFC China and the China Children and Teenagers’ Fund, the “KFC Little Migratory Bird Fund” will undergo significant enhancements, aiming to expand the fund’s support for underprivileged children who face challenges such as poverty and disabilities. Since 2016, the fund has been promoting the physical and mental development of left-behind children through reading, sports, and arts activities across the country. KFC China also shared that it aims to provide financial assistance to 1,000 children and organize 200 caring and companionship activities by the end of 2024.KFC China launched a reusable serving basket made from KFC’s coffee grounds to promote climate action. The baskets will initially be rolled out at 1,500 KFC restaurants in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, before being progressively introduced at restaurants nationwide. In addition, KFC China is committed to introducing more carbon neutral products through forest planting initiatives in key areas to support environment protection and restoration.KFC China will expand its Food Bank Program, which distributes free surplus food from its stores. The program is set to be expanded to more than 700 stores in over 100 cities by the end of 2023, doubling that from 2022. The program reduces food waste and GHG emissions.KFC China unveiled a new “Angel Restaurant” in Hangzhou, the host city for the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games. KFC China will select outstanding “Angel Employees” from its “Angel Restaurants” to form a special service team for the Asian Games. The “Angel Restaurants” initiative creates a welcoming and inclusive workplace for people with special needs. As of the end of June 2023, KFC China has 36 “Angel Restaurants” in 32 cities, employing over 200 individuals with special needs each year. These restaurants are equipped with upgraded visual devices, and custom visual learning materials to enhance work environment of “Angel Employees”.

Since entering mainland China 36 years ago, KFC China has remained steadfast in its commitment to social responsibility. With a network of over 9,200 stores across 1,800 cities, KFC China strives to utilize its extensive reach as a powerful engagement platform that brings people together in supporting the disadvantaged, protecting the environment and fostering a more caring society.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including under “2023 Outlook.” We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as “expect,” “expectation,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “intend,” “belief,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “predict,” “project,” “likely,” “will,” “continue,” “should,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “commit” or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future strategies, growth, business plans, investment, dividend and share repurchase plans, earnings, performance and returns of Yum China, anticipated effects of population and macroeconomic trends, the expected impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, pace of recovery of Yum China’s business, the anticipated effects of our innovation, digital and delivery capabilities and investments on growth and beliefs regarding the long-term drivers of Yum China’s business. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. Numerous factors could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: whether we are able to achieve development goals at the times and in the amounts currently anticipated, if at all, the success of our marketing campaigns and product innovation, our ability to maintain food safety and quality control systems, changes in public health conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to control costs and expenses, including tax costs, as well as changes in political, economic and regulatory conditions in China. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results.

About Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company has over 400,000 employees and operates over 13,000 restaurants under six brands across 1,800 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has also partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world’s most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit http://ir.yumchina.com.

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Tel: +86 21 2407 7556 / +852 2267 5801 
IR@YumChina.com

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HPC and AI as a service available to public and private organizations of any size as part of new agreementUAE to become home to one of the regions first sustainable data centers powered by Lenovo Neptune™ Liquid Cooling ServersHPC Cluster at SRTI to drive transformational change in citizen welfare and security

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, July 3, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Lenovo signed a new agreement with Al Hathboor Bikal.ai, to provide public and private sector customers with cutting-edge high performance cloud computing systems to support advanced digital transformation projects which focus on developing innovation in the UAE. Lenovo will also provide systems and expertise to support Al Hathboor Bikal.ai to build and operate a new sustainable data center at Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP).

The collaboration will see Lenovo and Al Hathboor Bikal.ai, the joint venture between Al Hathboor Group LLC and Bikal Technologies Limited, working together to leverage shared experience in High Performance Computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to provide customers in the region with advanced capabilities that will enable them to use AI to address business challenges and create new digital technologies.

The agreement was signed at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park on 17th May in presence of HE Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO SRTIP and Raj Sandhu, GM Al Hathboor Bikal.ai, Mohammed Al Hathboor Management Committee Member of Al Hathboor Bikal.ai, and Alaa Bawab, General Manager, Lenovo Infrastructure Solutions Group, META along with other senior management and dignitaries.

Commenting on the partnership, Raj Sandhu, GM Al Hathboor Bikal.ai said: “We have huge ambitions for Sharjah Research and Technology Innovation Park, and this partnership with a global leader like Lenovo, will set the path towards developing tailored infrastructure solutions that will solve both public and private organisational challenges. We look forward to leveraging Lenovo’s experience in the technology sector and enhancing our digital capabilities while also welcoming new AI-powered and data-enabled research and technologies.”

“Al Hathboor sees this collaboration as a way to give the UAE a technological advantage to the innovation ecosystem, create jobs and opportunities for our youth, and develop tech for solving regional and global challenges. Lenovo, Nvidia and Intel with SRTIP gives us a joint capability in tech transfer and we look forward with working with our universities, businesses, and government”, Added Mohammed Al Hathboor Management Committee Member of Al Hathboor Bikal.ai.

High Performance Computing (HPC) For All

Lenovo will provide HPC hardware and software to Al Hathboor along with operational management and support, to create on demand services for customers as well as managed services support. The partnership will democratise the use of HPC for various private and public sector organisations allowing them to access HPC cluster on a service model.

As an example of one application, the HPC cluster situated at SRTIP can play a crucial role in enhancing citizen health and safety within the emirate of Sharjah. By harnessing the power of HPC, authorities can process and analyze vast amounts of data from various sources, such as CCTV systems, and sensor networks, through to analysing data from patients to diagnose health issues. This enables real-time monitoring, helping to identify potential threats swiftly and respond proactively. Additionally, HPC systems can also enhance emergency response and disaster management by optimizing resource allocation, analyzing weather patterns, and coordinating rescue efforts. Furthermore, HPC’s advanced analytics capabilities facilitate predictive modelling and machine learning algorithms, enabling agencies to detect patterns of activities and predict potential events. Ultimately, HPC empowers decision-makers to make data-driven choices, enhancing the safety and health of citizens throughout the UAE.

AI & Analytics

The agreement will leverage Lenovo’s position as the one of the only providers for proven, ready-to-deploy AI-enabled infrastructure solutions that are optimized for industry-leading independent software vendors (ISVs) of any size and scale. Lenovo will also provide support through its AI Centers of Excellence, including access to Lenovo Data Scientists, AI architects and engineers, to leverage the company’s multi-industry domain experience to deploy AI and machine learning research solutions that can be used across various sectors including education, R&D, retail, oil & gas and more.

With its AI-ready servers and storage solutions, active partnerships and an ecosystem of ISVs, Lenovo will deliver pre-validated, performance optimized AI-ready solutions on demand, even under the heaviest high-performance workloads.

Sustainable Data Center

As part of the deal, Lenovo will implement one of the first data centers in the region to use Lenovo’s patented Neptune Liquid Cooling Technology, which will greatly improve energy efficiency and sustainability of services delivered by Al Hathboor. The unique thermal solution uses efficient liquid cooling to reduce cooling requirements in the data center, reducing energy consumption and contributing to sustainability goals. The solution is designed for sustainable performance and scalability, while supporting the emergent demands for HPC workloads without compromising on performance.

Alaa Bawab, General Manager, Lenovo Infrastructure Group, META added, “The agreement with Al Hathboor Bikal.ai for HPCaaS is a gamechanger, providing organizations with the ability to access high performance computing and advanced technologies including AI, to power their digital transformations, with the confidence that they are accessing services from the region’s first sustainable data center.” He further added, “Along with being in line with the UAE Net Zero 2050 policy, the launch of this data center will also enable access for organizations to powerful solutions and the computing resources to utilize them effectively. This in turn will help drive new innovations, such as Large Language Models similar to GPT-3 and help organizations to bring the benefits of advanced AI to their own operations.”

The agreement and the opening of the new sustainable data center both align with the UAE NetZero 2050 strategic initiative. The initiative is a national drive to reduce net-zero emissions by 2050, powered by key sustainability goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing sustainable practices, and using renewable energy. The new data center keeps this in mind, driving efficiency while simultaneously reducing energy consumption.

The agreement will also form the platform for cooperative activities and research in relevant fields such as technology incubation and development. Both parties will also promote activities to encourage cooperation between technology companies, while supporting each other with international conferences, symposiums, and events.

About Lenovo

Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) is a US$70 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #171 in the Fortune Global 500, employing 75,000 people around the world, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver smarter technology for all, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s leading PC player by expanding into new growth areas of infrastructure, mobile, solutions and services. This transformation together with Lenovo’s world-changing innovation is building a more inclusive, trustworthy, and sustainable digital society for everyone, everywhere. To find out more visit https://www.lenovo.com, and read about the latest news via our StoryHub.

About Al Hathboor Bikal.ai (Fzc)

Al Hathboor Bikal.ai is a product company that solves challenge statements of the Industry/government using Artificial Intelligence and Data Science along with 5G technologies and High Performance Compute.

July 3, 2023 /3BL/ – Join us for an informative webinar that explores the crucial role of forecasting in safeguarding businesses against the devastating impacts of hurricanes and wildland fires. Gain valuable insights from experts in the field as they delve into the cutting-edge techniques and technologies used to predict these natural disasters. Discover how accurate forecasting can empower businesses to implement proactive measures, minimize disruptions, and ensure the safety of employees, customers, and assets. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how forecasting can be a game-changer in protecting your business from the unpredictable forces of nature.

Key Topics to Be Covered:

Understanding the Science: Exploring the dynamic nature of hurricanes and wildland firesAdvanced Forecasting Techniques: Leveraging state-of-the-art models and toolsEarly Warning Systems: How forecasting enhances preparedness and responseMitigation Strategies: Proactive measures to minimize risks and protect assetsBusiness Continuity Planning: Ensuring operations amidst natural disastersCase Studies: Real-world examples of successful forecasting and disaster preventionFuture Trends: Exploring the evolving landscape of forecasting technology

Join us on July 20th at 2 PM ET for this webinar to gain invaluable insights into the world of hurricane and wildland fire forecasting, and discover how proactive planning can help keep your business safe from these destructive forces.

Register now to secure your spot!

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Fifth Third published its 2022 Sustainability Report on June 30. In it, President & CEO Tim Spence and Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer Kala Gibson shared a message regarding the Company’s commitment to sustainability.

“Last year was one filled with opportunities, accomplishments, challenges and growth—all of which continued in a very real way in 2023 as a crisis in our industry unfolded. We are pleased to report that the crisis did not occur inside the walls of Fifth Third.

This was due, in large part, to our relentless focus on our ambition to be the one bank people most value and trust. We’ve always striven to be there for our customers and in the last six months, we saw them be there for us. By proactively choosing Fifth Third every day, they recognized the value we provide and placed their trust here, with us.

Delivering on our sustainability strategy, priorities and commitments is key to our ability to continue generating long-term value to all our stakeholders. We are focused on keeping the customer at the center, building strong communities, delivering on our commitment to employees, promoting inclusion and diversity, and addressing climate change to create a more inclusive and sustainable world.

Keeping the Customer at the Center

For our customers, we are committed to innovating with technology while building strong human relationships and connections. Our Retail team made over 12 million customer outreach calls last year to ensure we were meeting our customers’ needs and to better understand what more we could do.

We continued to improve upon our innovative and inclusive consumer products like our award-winning Fifth Third Momentum® Banking checking and savings accounts. In 2022, we expanded Fifth Third Momentum’s Early Pay® feature to include income received from gig work, as well as some forms of government and retirement benefits. Since the launch in 2021, more than half a million customer accounts have received their pay up to two days early representing $27.6 million deposited last year.

To focus on the best outcomes for our customers and reduce punitive fees, we eliminated non-sufficient funds fees for all consumer accounts in June 2022. We have the lowest concentration of overdrafts as a percentage of deposit fees among peers who have significant consumer banking operations.

The same holds true for our business clients. We offer peer-leading, digitally-enabled Treasury Management Managed Services such as Expert AP®. This service helps our clients control their payments and improves access to payment information while also helping AP departments run more efficiently.

This focus resulted in Fifth Third being recognized in Fortune’s inaugural list of America’s Most Innovative Companies. The list honors the 300 companies transforming industries from the inside out. We are proud of this honor as it recognizes our employees’ commitment to innovate on behalf of the people we serve.

Building Strong Communities

In our view, banking is a noble profession. It’s a privilege to provide the services that our customers need; it’s also a privilege to help improve the well-being of our communities. Strong banks need strong communities and strong communities need strong banks. In early 2023, Fifth Third received an “Outstanding,” the highest rating possible, on its most recent Community Reinvestment Act performance examination from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. We received “Outstanding” ratings on each of the exam’s three tests: Lending, Investments and Service.

Our $180 million Fifth Third Empowering Black Futures Neighborhood Investment Program is flourishing and will create the kind of fundamental change that helps communities thrive long-term. This program, which is investing $20 million in each of the nine neighborhoods within our footprint, is enabling economic mobility for Black residents and supporting infrastructure, programming and financial access that has the potential to have life-changing, generational positive impact. From June 2021 through December 2022, $100.8 million has been invested in the $180 million program.

As an example of the impact we’re having, our investment of $2.1 million helped lead to the opening of Adelphi Bank, the first Black-owned depository institution in Ohio, in May 2023. Fifth Third was the largest investor among financial institutions, and Adelphi was formed by several prominent leaders, including one of our former Fifth Third Bank regional presidents, Jordan Miller. The Bank’s investment is consistent with our involvement with the OCC’s Project REACh. Participants like our Bank pledged to strengthen minority depository institutions and help reduce specific barriers that prevent full, equal and fair participation in the economy by traditionally disadvantaged communities.

Meeting community needs is paramount at Fifth Third. When Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida in September 2022, employees made 90,000 wellness calls to our customers. We also quickly assessed 147 financial centers for physical damage and had 95% of them opened within 48 hours while the remaining 5% opened within 72 hours. The Fifth Third Foundation donated $500,000 toward relief efforts to five local organizations and our Financial Empowerment Mobile, or eBus, rolled in to help community members apply for federal and disaster relief aid.

In addition to these times of immediate need, our foundations actively support our communities all year-long. In 2022, our total philanthropic giving was $38.8 million. Our employees logged more than 117,000 volunteer hours. One of the areas of focus for volunteerism continues to be financial access and capability. We have a suite of financial education programs, including the Fifth Third Young Bankers Club® and Fifth Third Bank Finance Academy®, and our eBus was active on the road for nearly 250 days of the year providing services directly to 30,000 people.

As part of our $100 billion environmental and social finance target that runs from 2021-2030, we provided over $5.2 billion of financing in eligible affordable housing last year. This commitment created and preserved over 6,280 units of housing. Over the last two years, under the social target, the Bank financed $15.4 billion in projects. This included nearly $739 million financed for essential services to lowand moderate-income communities.”

To continue reading this message from Fifth Third’s leaders, please access the 2022 Sustainability Report at www.53.com/sustainabilityreport.