Tag: 3BL

AUSTIN, Texas, January 23, 2025 /3BL/ – Whole Foods Market Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to nourishing people and the planet by helping to advance healthy food access, nutrition and economic opportunities, announced today that it has appointed Daniel Zoltani to Executive Director. Zoltani previously served as Senior Director of Programs, playing an integral part in the consolidation of Whole Cities, Whole Kids and Whole Planet under the umbrella of Whole Foods Market Foundation and driving programmatic strategy.

Zoltani has served as a Foundation Team Member and leader for over 16 years. As Whole Planet’s Interim Executive Director and Global Programs Director, he supported the project’s international portfolio and was responsible for developing programmatic strategy, expansion and overseeing partner operations in more than 80 countries.

“Whole Foods Market Foundation was built on the strong roots of Whole Cities, Whole Kids and Whole Planet to help foster deep, lasting change in the U.S. and around the world,” said Daniel Zoltani, Executive Director of Whole Foods Market Foundation.“I’m excited to harness this momentum as we expand our reach and impact, providing access to essential resources that improve nutrition and create opportunities for financial stability worldwide.”

In his new role, Zoltani is committed to honoring the rich legacy and missions of Whole Cities, Whole Kids and Whole Planet, while reimagining the project’s unified potential. Consolidating efforts under one Foundation creates a unique opportunity to amplify the impact and create deeper, more comprehensive programs. In 2024, the projects invested $14 million in 39 countries around the world providing essential resources to help build healthy and prosperous communities for the long term.

Prior to joining the Whole Planet team in Austin, Zoltani worked in microfinance at the field level for Grameen Trust, where he supported the planning and implementation of the Grameen Build-Operate-Manage microfinance institutions in Guatemala, Mexico and Colombia. He also spent 5 years based in Chiang Mai, Thailand expanding Whole Planet’s Asia/Pacific portfolio. He holds degrees in Economics and International Affairs from the University of Colorado, Boulder.

For more information, visit wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org

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About Whole Foods Market Foundation

Whole Foods Market Foundation works to nourish people and the planet by helping to advance economic opportunities, nutrition and food access in local and global communities. The registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, based in Austin, Texas, encompasses the projects of Whole Cities, Whole Kids and Whole Planet. For more information on the Foundation’s work, visit wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org. For ongoing news and updates, follow Whole Foods Market Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) or LinkedIn.

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Media Contact:
Nikki Newman-Sobhani
Nikki.Newman@wholefoods.com 

Authored by Baker Tilly’s Robert Moczulewski and Beckett Woodworth

On his first day in office, President Trump signed an executive order titled Unleashing American Energy that directs federal agencies to pause disbursements of certain funds under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021. According to Section 7 of the order, agencies must suspend Inflation Reduction Act grants, loans, and other financial mechanisms, including those supporting electric vehicle infrastructure, until they complete a 90-day review to ensure alignment with the administration’s energy policy.

While the executive order’s full implications are still developing, affected programs include, but are not limited to:

National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula ProgramCharging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program

During the 90-day review period, each agency will assess the consistency of its processes with the new policy and submit recommendations to both the Director of the National Economic Council (NEC) and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Disbursements may resume only if deemed consistent with any adopted recommendations.

At this stage, it remains unclear whether the pause covers all prospective funding, such as direct pay provisions under the IRA, or if it applies solely to grants, loans and contracts administered at the federal level. Pausing funding already appropriated by Congress may prompt legal challenges, though the administration can impose interim review processes. Any resulting delays could affect organizations and projects depending on future allocations under these statutes.

Connect with a Baker Tilly specialist to see how this executive order may affect specific projects or timelines.

LAUSANNE, Switzerland and SAN JOSE, Calif., January 23, 2025 /3BL/ – Logitech International (SIX: LOGN) (Nasdaq: LOGI) announces the availability of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts for more than 20 Logitech devices on the Logitech Repair Hub, hosted by iFixit. This action marks a significant global expansion, with spare parts and repair guides now offered in multiple languages to enhance repairability worldwide. A range of Logitech and Logitech G mice, keyboards, and headsets are supported by iFixit across 62 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Europe.

“Our products are designed for exceptional quality and longevity. Repairability extends their lifespan further – enhancing value and customer satisfaction,” said Prakash Arunkundrum, chief operating officer at Logitech. “Normal wear and tear is inevitable, which is why we strive to make it simpler for people to access original Logitech replacement parts for their devices. Having global iFixit community repair guides in multiple languages encourages more people to do straightforward repairs, saving them money and reducing waste.”

A 2021 YouGov survey revealed that 54% of global consumers prefer repairing electronic devices over replacing them, with affordability playing a key role in this decision. Similarly, a 2024 Consumer Reports survey found that 7 in 10 consumers felt keeping repair costs reasonably priced was the most important factor when deciding between repairing or replacing a product. Further supporting this trend, another survey indicates 84% of Americans favor ‘right to repair’ policies. This deepens Logitech’s commitment to accessible repair options through its partnership with iFixit.

Logitech initially partnered with iFixit to facilitate the availability of spare parts, support beyond-warranty repair on select products, and repair guides to support repairs in the United States. As part of the recent global expansion, iFixit communities across the world can now find simple, easy-to-follow repair instructions in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, Korean, and Japanese. Supported products now include: all MX Master and MX Anywhere computer mice, MX Master 3S Mouse, MX Keyboard, PRO X Superlight Mouse, G305 Mouse, GPRO Mouse, G502 Hero Mouse, G915 Keyboard, GPRO Headset, GPRO X Headset, G733 Headset, and Zone Learn. The replacement parts available on iFixit are original manufacturer parts from Logitech, so people know they will function and fit properly with their Logitech devices.

“We’re thrilled to be in a world where companies like Logitech distinguish themselves by the repairability of their devices. The growing momentum on repairability in the tech industry is spurring companies to design devices with replaceable components and ease of maintenance,” said Matt Zieminski, VP of Partnerships at iFixit. “The Logitech G733 has repair-friendly features, like detachable ear pads and a simple parts replacement process, making it easy for people to handle repairs confidently.”

Replaceable parts and repair guides for select Logitech and Logitech G devices can be found on the Logitech Repair Hub on iFixit worldwide. Learn about how Logitech is intentional about designing for sustainability, including its circularity initiatives, and making product longevity a focus, in the company’s FY24 Impact Report.

About Logitech 
Logitech designs software-enabled hardware solutions that help businesses thrive and bring people together when working, creating and gaming. As the point of connection between people and the digital world, our mission is to extend human potential in work and play, in a way that is good for people and the planet. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is a Swiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (LOGI). Find Logitech and its other brands, including Logitech G, at www.logitech.com or company blog.

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(LOGIIR)

As we celebrate the UN International Day of Clean Energy, one thing is clear: clean energy is no longer just a lofty goal — it’s a global imperative. Which is why logistics and supply chains, which historically have been responsible for as much as 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions, are stepping up. Ports, the beating hearts of international trade, are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in slashing emissions and embracing renewable energy.

At DP World, this isn’t just talk — it’s action. The company is rolling out clean energy innovations worldwide, not least in our Americas backyard. Innovations that are already making waves (pun intended). From electric vehicles to solar panels and mangrove reforestation, DP World is proving that you can be green without sacrificing efficiency — or profits.

Ports as Clean Energy Trailblazers

Let’s face it: logistics and freight have been major culprits when it comes to emissions, with road freight alone accounting for 53% of trade-related transport emissions. If we’re serious about decarbonizing supply chains, we need to electrify fleets, ditch dirty fuels, and power up with renewables.

Take Canada, for example. DP World is deploying Electric Light-Medium Vehicles (E-LMVs) across its facilities, including three already operational at the Prince Rupert Terminal. These vehicles draw power from Canada’s 98.5% green energy grid, slashing lifecycle emissions by up to 50% while saving $27,170 per vehicle over their lifetimes. Not bad, right?

But Canada is just one piece of the puzzle. Ports throughout the region are joining the clean energy revolution.

Global Clean Energy Innovations

In Argentina, DP World is leaning heavily into renewables. Starting in September of 2024, 80% of the terminal’s energy is now coming from a national wind farm, soon due for the completion of its certification by the International Renewable Energy Certificate (I-REC). This move has cut CO₂ emissions by 35.7%, in addition to the solar panels already powering facilities like employee changing rooms.

Meanwhile, in Brazil, DP World is expanding its solar capacity while already using I-REC-certified renewable energy for operations. They’ve even integrated 10% biodiesel into their fuel mix for equipment like Rubber-Tired Gantries (RTGs) and Internal Terminal Vehicles (ITVs) — a move that’s not only eco-friendly but also practical in a country known for its biofuel leadership. They have already invested more than US$16.2 million transitioning their fleet of 22 RTGs to fully electric power, reducing the terminal’s diesel consumption by up to 60%.

Chile is fully invested in the movement too. Both the San Antonio and Lirquén terminals have swapped diesel powered cranes for electric ones, running on 100% renewable energy through partnership with Colbún S.A. Incorporating renewable energy has reduced the terminals’ emissions by 58% and 40% respectively. Between the two terminals, this is equivalent to removing more than 1,000 combustion vehicles and planting almost 50,000 trees a year.

In the Dominican Republic, it’s all about solar. DP World has invested nearly $2 million in solar energy, installing panels with an impressive 1.9 MW capacity to power administrative buildings and warehouses. On top of that, the port uses electric equipment, including 28 forklifts, 11 quay cranes, and 4 Light-Vehicles, reducing fossil fuel reliance while keeping operations humming.

When Clean Energy Meets Nature

Ecuador takes a different approach by blending renewable energy with nature-based solutions. The hydroelectric-powered DP World Posorja terminal is a shining example, but the real star is the Sembrando Vida Project. Over 250,000 mangroves have been planted across 105 hectares, sequestering 50,719 tons of CO₂ and benefiting more than 160 direct beneficiaries of fishing groups. The project doesn’t just fight climate change — it protects ecosystems and supports the local community.

Not to be outdone, Peru is making bold moves at DP World Callao. 123 solar panels generate 5% of the energy powering electric charging stations, the first terminal in Latin America to operate with this infrastructure. IREC-certified hydroelectric energy supplies 100% of the terminal’s electricity. A fleet of 20 ITVs, 12 RTGs, 3 new quay cranes (QCs), 4 pickup trucks and 2 vans is already operational, with 10 of the RTGs already converted from diesel to electric. These efforts have already slashed scope 1 and 2 emissions by 20% between 2023 and 2024, saving more than 11,690 tons of CO₂ from the atmosphere, showing how renewable energy and electrification can deliver results.

In Suriname, DP World is tapping into the country’s 50% hydroelectric energy grid to power electric forklifts, replacing old diesel models. Solar energy is also making an impact, with solar lamps in remote cabins and pinning stations powered by the sun.

Why It Matters

These efforts aren’t just feel-good stories — they’re critical to meeting global climate goals. From Canada’s net-zero by 2050 target to Ecuador’s mangrove reforestation, DP World’s initiatives show that clean energy isn’t just good for the planet — it’s good for business.

The logistics industry is poised to benefit from a green logistics market worth $350 billion by 2030. By adopting clean energy solutions across its global operations, DP World is setting the standard for sustainable port operations while helping the world decarbonize.

A Call to Action

Here’s the bottom line: clean energy isn’t just the future — it’s the present. For ports and supply chains, the shift to sustainable practices is no longer optional. Collaboration between businesses, policymakers, and tech innovators is key to accelerating this transition.

At DP World, the proof is in the results. From electric vehicles in Canada to solar panels in Suriname, the company is showing how sustainability and operational excellence go hand in hand.

The International Day of Clean Energy is a reminder of what’s possible when innovation meets determination. Ports around the world are proving that clean energy isn’t just a dream — it’s reality, one electric vehicle, solar panel, and mangrove seedling at a time.

“Gardening offers kids more than just the chance to get their hands dirty—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, build a sense of community, and develop self-confidence, all while experiencing the joy of watching something grow,” said Em Shipman, executive director of KidsGardening.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation along with KidsGardening.org are now welcoming applications for the 2025 GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant. If your organization is looking to connect more children to gardens and outdoor play, get the details and apply here: https://kidsgardening.org/grant-opportunities/gromoregood-grassroots-grant-25/

A special thank you to the following organizations for sharing their garden photos with us: 

Christina Kent Early Childhood 
Spring Branch Elementary PTA 
The Hickman NEST 
Worchester Islamic Center 

Let’s GroMoreGood, together!

View original content here.

About ScottsMiracle-Gro 
With approximately $3.6 billion in sales, the Company is the world’s largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care. The Company’s brands are among the most recognized in the industry. The Company’s Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, and Ortho® brands are market-leading in their categories. The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, The Hawthorne Gardening Company, is a leading provider of nutrients, lighting, and other materials used in the indoor and hydroponic growing segment. For additional information, visit us at www.scottsmiraclegro.com.

Originally published in ScottsMiracle-Gro’s 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report

We continued our partnership with KidsGardening, a national nonprofit that supports educators and caregivers who bring the lifechanging benefits of gardening to kids, by providing GroMoreGood Grassroots Grants to 160 programs in 2023. The grants funded various types of community-driven garden and greenspace projects that directly engage youth, including school and community gardens, urban farms, pollinator gardens and outdoor playscapes. Grants in the amount of $500 were given to programs for the creation of new garden projects and the expansion of existing ones. Fifteen programs were awarded an additional $1,000 in funding, for a total of $1,500, for the following specialty award categories:

Plus: Designed to fund new and existing garden programs that have greater funding needs due to, but not limited to, financial, environmental, safety, health, and regulation challenges.Pride: Designed to fund new and existing garden programs that serve a majority of LGBTQ+ youth.Equity: Designed to fund new and existing garden programs led by people of color that serve a majority of youth of color.

2023 recipients spanned 37 states across the U.S. and increased access to garden-based learning opportunities for more than 27,000 youth. A total of $95,000 was awarded for the 2023 GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant period.

“Our gardening program was especially impactful for the families that had never gardened before. One such family was a grandparent raising their grandchildren. They shared, ‘Gardening was something lost in our family until this program. I remember my parents and grandparents doing it, but I never learned the skill. Learning the basics of gardening with my grandkids helped me reconnect to my past and feel that I am setting up my grandkids for a better future.”

– Monica B., Athens Farmers Market, 2023 GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant and Plus Specialty Award Recipient

To learn more about ScottsMiracleGro’s commitment to corporate responsibility, visit our webpage

For full details about ScottsMiracle-Gro’s 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report, visit here.

Stamford, CT, January 23, 2025 /3BL/ – all® free clear—the #1 doctor recommended laundry detergent brand for sensitive skin—today announced the brand will be the first laundry detergent in the U.S. to incorporate NaviLens technology on its packaging and will be featured on the all® free clear MIGHTY PACS® Original laundry detergent tubs and pouches. Dedicated to creating more accessible environments, NaviLens is a navigation and scanning app for those with low vision and blindness. With more than 7 million Americans* living with low vision, the all® free clear brand recognizes the strong need for resources that provide greater independence and access during their day-to-day experiences.

“With NaviLens technology on our all® free clear MIGHTY PACS® Original packaging, we aim to make laundry more accessible so people can complete this essential, everyday task with greater ease and peace of mind,“ said Philipp Schaffer, Corporate Senior Vice President and Regional Head of Henkel Consumer Brands North America. “We are pleased to make laundry care more inclusive—from the store to home.”

NaviLens smart codes will be located on the front of all® free clear MIGHTY PACS® Original, which are pre-measured unit-dose detergent pacs that provide added convenience on laundry day. Once individuals download the NaviLens app, the device detects NaviLens codes, audibly notifying the user of the product name, type, dosing instructions and precise in-store location. NaviLens can benefit those with blindness, low vision, language barriers and anyone in need of additional resources.

“Our partnership with all® free clear laundry detergent marks an important step in offering NaviLens technology in everyday household products, enhancing the shopping experience for all consumers,” said Javier Pita, Chief Executive Officer of NaviLens. “It is our mission to empower people who are blind or have low vision through our cutting-edge technology. This collaboration represents another stride toward expanding NaviLens accessible codes to more everyday environments, positively impacting the daily experiences of millions.”

In addition to updating its packaging, the all® free clear brand will donate $25,000 to the American Foundation for the Blind this February in honor of Low Vision Awareness Month to help propel the organization’s mission to create equal opportunities and expand possibilities for those with blindness and low vision.

For more information, visit all-laundry.com/NaviLens to read how NaviLens technology is empowering those with blindness and low vision.

* American Academy of Ophthalmology

CHARLOTTE, N.C., January 22, 2525 /3BL/ — On Wednesday, Fifth Third celebrated the opening of a new full-service banking center in Charlotte’s Historic West End Neighborhood, the first of 15 banking centers Fifth Third plans to open in low- and moderate-income (LMI) or high minority (HMT) population census tracts this year. With the new branch, Fifth Third will help increase financial access while contributing to the revitalization of the Historic West End.

Fifth Third prioritizes financial access and neighborhood revitalization through its Neighborhood Program, a community development initiative which creates and implements innovative place-based strategies to effect positive change in nine historically disinvested neighborhoods across the Bank’s 11-state footprint, including Charlotte. As Fifth Third strategically expands and opens new financial centers across the country, 30% of new branches in development will be in LMI and/or HMT areas.  In addition to new centers, Fifth Third offers its eBus and Banking to Go kiosks to address gaps in financial services in underserved communities.

“When we launched the Neighborhood Program in 2021, our goal was to empower the futures of residents and small businesses in the communities we serve by providing financial access,” said Jada Grandy-Mock, chief community impact banking officer for Fifth Third. “This branch is an open door—a door of opportunity for Charlotte’s Historic West End. Every resident in this community is welcome to come through those doors and find a financial partner in us to empower their future dreams.”

Located at 2340 Beatties Ford Road, the Historic West End branch will be a model for innovation and sustainability, occupying a modest 1,900 square feet. The center will have the added convenience of a drive-thru and ATM. Inside, the center’s open design will make it easy for customers to get quick digital service or discuss more complex banking products, like college savings plans, mortgages, or retirement solutions. The new, streamlined building will feature flexible meeting and seating areas that offer adjustable layers of privacy. Fifth Third broke ground in February 2023, with Charlotte-Based McFarland Construction serving as the general contractor.

“We are able to celebrate the opening of this Historic West End location because of the special bond that exists between our community partners and our local Fifth Third team,” said Lee Fite, president, Fifth Third Bank, Carolinas Region. “This is the result of many years of conversations, planning and hard work that allowed for a shared commitment to provide resources for the good of our community.”

At Wednesday’s event, the Fifth Third Foundation and LISC Charlotte also presented $100,000 in grants to five local small businesses to help them continue to grow.

Fifth Third’s Neighborhood Program is pioneering a new place-based approach to community development by partnering with a lead partner organization and other local organizations to build ecosystems that drive real change through both financial and social investments. This collective ecosystem approach is focused on identifying solutions to key challenges in partnership with the community, with the goal of creating lasting, transformative change.

The Historic West End branch is the first new financial center to open as part of the neighborhood program, though several renovations have been completed and several new branches are planned within other program neighborhoods.

In partnership with LISC Charlotte and other community agencies, Fifth Third has made $85.2 million in direct investments into Charlotte’s Historic West End since 2021 and catalyzed $28 million in additional leverage, for a total impact in the neighborhood of $113.2 million.

Key initiatives include:

Thrive Food Hub: A 6,000 square foot shopping center located at 1121 Beatties Ford Road in the heart of the Historic West End has been acquired by Historic West End Partners. The underutilized strip mall is being renovated and turned into a commercial kitchen for local chefs, a corner store selling fresh food, and a meeting space for small businesses in the community. Historic West End Partners was able to acquire the $1.3 million property with help from $300,000 in funding from a Fifth Third Foundation program-related investment, or PRI.
 Legacy at Carr Heights: A grand opening was held at the Legacy at Carr Heights Senior Apartments in July 2024. Fifth Third was proud to be among the many private and public partners who helped to bring the 120-unit affordable senior living apartment complex to the community. A philanthropic program-related investment from the Fifth Third Foundation to the West Side Community Land Trust helped facilitate the original purchase of the land, and Fifth Third was among the funding partners for the $31 million development.
 Hoskins Street Home Preservation: The West Side Community Land Trust leveraged $1.6 million in program-related investment funding from the Fifth Third Foundation to support the acquisition and renovation of 32 houses in the West End’s Hoskins Street that were being sold by a single landlord. The effort is preventing the displacement of families living in these homes. 

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About Fifth Third

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

CONTACT  

Amanda Nageleisen (Media Relations) 
amanda.nageleisen@53.com
Matt Curoe (Investor Relations)
matt.curoe@53.com | 513-534-2345

SWORDS, Ireland, January 22, 2025 /3BL/ – Trane Technologies (NYSE:TT), a global climate innovator, has been recognized in Corporate Knights’ 2025 Global 100 ranking. This is the third time Trane Technologies has been featured on this annual list, which recognizes leading companies for their investments in green solutions such as renewable energy, energy efficiency and the circular economy.

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized in Corporate Knights’ 2025 Global 100 ranking,” said Mauro Atalla, Senior Vice President, Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer, Trane Technologies. “This acknowledgment underscores our dedication to pioneering groundbreaking innovations for our customers, pushing the boundaries of possibility and leading the transformation to a more sustainable future for all.”

For over a decade, sustainability has been the cornerstone of Trane Technologies’ business strategy and integrated into every aspect of how we do business. This was recently demonstrated through the company’s acquisition of BrainBox AI, a pioneer in autonomous HVAC controls and generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) building technology. BrainBox AI leverages deep learning algorithms to predict building energy needs and automate HVAC systems, resulting in up to a 25% reduction in energy consumption and up to a 40% decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Trane Technologies recently became the first company in its industry to commit to a 40% reduction in embodied carbon by partnering with material suppliers and incorporating circular design criteria, addressing the significant carbon footprint of buildings. This commitment builds on Trane Technologies’ 2030 Sustainability Commitments, including the Gigaton Challenge, and its pledge to be net-zero by 2050.

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About Trane Technologies 
Trane Technologies is a global climate innovator. Through our strategic brands Trane® and Thermo King®, and our portfolio of environmentally responsible products and services, we bring efficient and sustainable climate solutions to buildings, homes and transportation. For more on Trane Technologies, visit www.tranetechnologies.com.

This news release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of securities laws, which are statements that are not historical facts, including statements that relate to our sustainability commitments and the impact of these commitments. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations. Factors that could cause such differences can be found in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as well as our subsequent reports on Form 10-Q and other SEC filings. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these events or how they may affect the Company. We assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

January 22, 2025 /3BL/ – Qurate Retail GroupSM, which includes retail brands QVC®, HSN®, Ballard Designs®, Frontgate®, Garnet Hill®, and Grandin Road®, today announced it has received a score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s 2025 Corporate Equality Index, the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Qurate Retail Group will be honored with HRCF’s Equality 100 Award as Leaders in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion.

“At Qurate Retail, we believe one example of a more sustainable way to retail is by intentionally fostering inclusion and respect within our teams and the communities we serve. This award is a testament to our steadfast commitment to workplace equality and a credit to the significant advancements we continue to make towards our public goals and the critical role we play in championing empowerment and belonging. We also acknowledge the journey is ongoing, and that’s why our Corporate Responsibility commitments continue to remain a core focus for our business,” said Virginia Nguyen, Chief Diversity & Impact Officer, Qurate Retail Group. “We are proud to have earned a top score on the 2025 Corporate Equality Index and grateful to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for the vital work they continue to do.”

The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars:

Non-discrimination policies across business entities;Equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families;Supporting an inclusive culture; and,Corporate social responsibility.

“The CEI is so much more than a score on paper. For decades businesses have relied on the CEI as a tool for transparency and leveling the playing field for all workers, making sure LGBTQ+ people and their families can share in fair, respectful and supportive workplaces and benefits,” said RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, SHRM-CP, HRCF Senior Director of Workplace Equality. “As conversations evolve on corporate America’s approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, year-over-year growth in CEI participation is evidence of a business community that largely recognizes the responsibility and value in upholding equity and inclusion. Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation is to work in a spirit of partnership with companies, providing educational resources and leading benchmarking. The work of the CEI is to help businesses to expand their consumer base and attract top, innovative talent by supporting the LGBTQ+ community.”

Companies rated in the CEI include Fortune magazine’s 500 largest publicly traded businesses, American Lawyer magazine’s top 200 revenue-grossing law firms (AmLaw 200), and hundreds of publicly and privately held mid- to large-sized businesses.

To view the full report, visit www.hrc.org/cei.

About Qurate Retail Group 
Qurate Retail GroupSM comprises six leading retail brands – QVC®, HSN®, Ballard Designs®, Frontgate®, Garnet Hill® and Grandin Road® – all dedicated to providing a more human way to shop. Qurate Retail Group is the largest player in video commerce (“vCommerce”), which includes video-driven shopping across linear TV, ecommerce sites, digital streaming and social platforms. The retailer reaches more than 200 million homes worldwide via 15 television channels, which are widely available on cable/satellite TV, free over-the-air TV, and digital livestreaming TV. The retailer also reaches millions of customers via its QVC+ and HSN+ streaming experience, websites, mobile apps, social pages, print catalogs, and in-store destinations. Qurate Retail Group combines shopping and entertainment to curate products, experiences, conversations and communities for millions of highly discerning shoppers. Headquartered in West Chester, Pa., Qurate Retail Group has team members in the U.S., the U.K., Germany, Japan, Italy, Poland and China. For more information, visit qurateretailgroup.com or follow Qurate Retail Group on YouTube or LinkedIn. 

Qurate Retail, Inc. (NASDAQ: QRTEA, QRTEB, QRTEP) is a Fortune 500 company that includes the Qurate Retail Group portfolio of brands as well as other minority interests.