Tag: 3BL

NORTHAMPTON, Mass., Dec 17, 2025 /3BL/ – We’ve been hearing it all year: 2025 was hard. Especially for anyone in the communication space.

Policy shifts created ripple effects across corporate impact strategies. Companies weren’t just adapting, they were scrambling to keep pace.

3BL heard, listened, and innovated.

This year, we rolled out transformative capabilities designed for exactly this moment: disclosure scores to benchmark transparency, AVE/Yield metrics to quantify ROI, LLM interaction tools, and a lot more.

Now we are prepping for what’s ahead in 2026. Here’s what 3BL is cooking up:

• Enhanced Analytics: Deeper insight into how your content performs, plus clearer visibility into competitive trends and benchmarks.
   
• Custom GPTs: Tailored AI tools that help refine your content and make sense of performance data faster.
   
• Custom Distribution: Greater control over where your content appears, with the ability to target specific outlets and audiences.
   
• New Editor: A streamlined, more intuitive editing experience that makes creating and publishing content easier.
   
• Content Library: A centralized hub to organize, manage, and easily repurpose all of your content assets.

We’re not done yet. These updates are just the beginning of what we’re building to help you navigate what’s next.

Want to see how it all comes together? Explore our full product suite here.

About 3BL 

3BL is the leading sustainability and social impact communications partner, connecting organizations’ stories of purpose and progress with the audiences who matter most.

3BL partners with over 1,500 companies – from global corporations and mid-sized enterprises to NGOs and nonprofits – to elevate their reputations as players in the world of responsible business. We do this through unrivaled news and content distribution, bespoke storytelling support, and our digital media division, TriplePundit.

How Solar Keeps Performing During Winter and Snowfall

Winter weather is often misunderstood as a barrier to solar performance. In reality, modern solar systems are engineered to operate in cold climates, through snow events, and across seasonal extremes. Advances in tracking technology, system design, and controls have significantly improved winter reliability—making solar a dependable year-round energy asset.

Cold Weather Isn’t the Problem—Design Is the Difference

Solar panels are not harmed by cold temperatures. In fact, photovoltaic modules often operate more efficiently in colder conditions than in extreme heat. The primary winter challenge is snow accumulation, which can temporarily block sunlight if not properly managed.

This is where thoughtful system design and modern technology make the difference.

How Tracking Technology Helps Solar Perform in Snow

Many commercial and institutional solar projects now use single-axis tracking systems, which allow panels to rotate throughout the day to follow the sun. Beyond increasing annual energy production, these systems offer a major winter advantage: automated snow shedding.

When snowfall is detected or forecasted, tracking systems can move panels into an extreme tilt position. This steep angle allows gravity to clear snow from the panel surface, often restoring production more quickly than fixed-tilt systems. Once conditions improve, the system automatically returns to its normal operating position—without manual intervention.

Real-World Example: Westtown School, Pennsylvania

This winter, Westtown, Pennsylvania received approximately 8 inches of snowfall over a single weekend. At the Westtown School solar project, the site’s tracking system automatically adjusted the panels into an extreme tilt position, allowing snow to shed efficiently and minimizing production downtime.

Rather than waiting for manual clearing or prolonged melting, the system responded autonomously to weather conditions. This is a practical example of how modern solar infrastructure is designed to perform in real-world environments—not just ideal ones.

How Far Solar Technology Has Come

Earlier generations of solar relied heavily on fixed-tilt racking, which performed well in moderate climates but could struggle in regions with regular snowfall. Today’s systems integrate:

• Advanced tracking hardware with weather-responsive controls
• Improved module surfaces that reduce snow adhesion
• Real-time monitoring platforms that identify performance impacts quickly
• Mechanical components engineered for freeze-thaw durability

These advancements have shifted solar from a seasonal energy solution to a reliable, year-round asset.

Where the Technology Is Going

Solar technology continues to evolve with a focus on automation, resilience, and predictability. Future developments are expected to include:

• AI-driven controls that anticipate weather events and optimize panel positioning
• Expanded use of bifacial modules that benefit from snow-reflected light
• Deeper integration with energy storage to smooth winter variability
• Continued improvements in materials designed for long-term cold-climate performance

Each step forward increases confidence in solar’s ability to support critical operations in all seasons.

Why Winter Performance Matters

For businesses, institutions, and municipalities, winter energy demand often aligns with peak operational requirements. Reliable energy production during these months reduces risk and supports long-term planning.

Solar systems designed to perform in winter offer:

• More consistent annual energy output
• Reduced operational uncertainty
• Improved long-term ROI
• Stronger energy resilience strategies

Winter performance isn’t a secondary benefit—it’s a key measure of system quality.

Solar Is Built for All Seasons

Snowfall doesn’t stop solar from working. With intelligent tracking, modern controls, and resilient design, solar continues delivering value throughout winter conditions.

Projects like Westtown School demonstrate that today’s solar infrastructure is built not just to generate energy—but to perform reliably, season after season.

Click here to learn more about BioStar Renewables.

Originally published on Bristol Myers Squibb News & Perspectives

For many cancer patients throughout Africa, the journey to diagnosis and treatment can be long and uncertain. But across the continent, communities and local leaders are working to change that reality. The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (BMS Foundation), an independent charitable organization, is proud to support many of these changemakers by strengthening cancer care systems and improving access to quality care, closer to home.

Recently, BMS Foundation President Catharine Grimes and members of the BMS Foundation team traveled to Africa to witness firsthand the impactful work of their grantee partners and meet with patients in various communities. The trip highlighted the profound impact of local efforts to transform health outcomes, and the unwavering commitment of the people working tirelessly to improve and save lives.

Their journey began in Kitui County, Kenya, where cervical and breast cancer are the leading causes of death among women of reproductive age, and access to treatment locally was once virtually unattainable. For years, patients had to travel over 150 miles to Nairobi for specialty care, often sleeping in hospital corridors. But today, the Phangisile Mtshali Cancer Center stands as a beacon of hope. Established in partnership with the Centre for Medical Mobilisation Board (CMMB) and the Kitui County Ministry of Health, the center has served more than 600 new patients and recorded over 5,400 revisits in just two years. It has also served as a hub for coordinating life-saving public health interventions, including reaching over 36,500 girls aged 10–14 with the HPV vaccine as a critical step toward advancing the WHO’s 90-70-90 cervical cancer elimination strategy.

“The Phangisile Mtshali Cancer Center has become a lifeline for cancer patients in Kitui county,” said Grimes. “Survivors bravely shared their stories with us, and they spoke with deep gratitude for this center that has changed their lives. It reaffirmed for us that when care is close to home, everything changes — outcomes, trust and lives. That is the power of building strong local systems that are responsive to the needs of the community.”

The BMS Foundation next traveled to Kisumu County, joining grantee partner Cure Cervical Cancer Kenya’s Mobile Health for Mamas program. Their community health campaign model uses home-based human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling, mobile treatment outreaches where eligible HPV-positive women who receive same-day diagnosis are invited for visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and are offered free thermal ablation treatment and patient navigation services.

“This initiative is grassroots public health at its finest,” Grimes shared. “Women from remote areas are able to access critical screening and treatment, and they are cared for with compassion and respect. The commitment of these health workers is nothing short of inspiring.”

Since 2021, the program has screened over 47,000 women for HPV and treated more than 8,000 HPV-positive patients in Kenya.

That same commitment to community-led, patient-centered care was on full display as the Foundation team continued on to other grantee sites. In Durban, South Africa, they participated in the Cancer & Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit-University of KwaZulu Natal’s (CIDERU-UKZN) mobile X-ray outreach in one of the implementing sites, which was made possible in collaboration with other CIDERU-UKZN partners, showcasing the power of inclusive interventions at the community level. They also toured the newly renovated lung cancer unit at Addington Hospital, which is focused on reducing the proportion of patients being diagnosed with lung cancer in stages 3 & 4 and increasing the volume of patients being diagnosed at earlier stages (1 & 2), ultimately saving lives.

And at the CANSA Mkhuhla Care Home, they met patients who received housing, meals, counseling and a supportive community after traveling long distances for treatment.

In Eldoret, Kenya, at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Uasin-Gishu County, the team made a visit to one of the facilities, Kamalel Health Centre in Kesses Sub-County. They witnessed local efforts to build community awareness, improve early detection and connect patients to treatment through navigation and peer support.

One patient, Martin Ijakaa, shared how the program not only connected him to treatment, but also restored his sense of dignity. Mr. Ijakaa had experienced vision loss and severe neurological symptoms but received no treatment plan or support despite visiting various facilities outside MTRH, including the capital Nairobi. He was ultimately reached by a patient navigator from the BMS Foundation supported project, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program (AMPATH MLCCP). After evaluation, procedures for biopsy and access to critical diagnostic tests, he was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma. He received appropriate management that included radiotherapy and a targeted therapy — as well as complementary support through home visits, peer support groups and counseling. Today Martin continues to do well, enjoying life and his family.

“Meeting Martin reminded us that behind every initiative is a human story,” said Grimes. “There is a story of struggle, but also of resilience. Martin’s journey reminds us why this work matters. Our partners are giving their patients a reason to believe in tomorrow.”

The Africa Grantee Summit: Learning, connection and shared purpose

These site visits set the stage for the BMS Foundation’s annual Africa Grantee Summit in Johannesburg, where grantee partners from across the continent convened to share progress, challenges, and opportunities to continue to grow their programs. Sessions focused on evaluation, research readiness, community-based innovation and sustainability, and provided the opportunity for celebration, collaboration and unity around shared purpose.

Joining Grimes was Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Board Member and Bristol Myers Squibb Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Wendy Short Bartie, whose presence underscored sustained commitment to the work.

“The BMS Foundation’s ethos is to put patients and people first, and to act with conviction to change outcomes where the need is greatest,” said Bartie. “That commitment is evident in the grantee partnerships it has established. The work being done across Africa shows that, even in the face of enormous challenges, it is possible to create lasting change and develop solutions that transform health outcomes and save lives.”

Renewed commitment: Post-Summit site visits

Following the Grantee Summit, Bartie and Grimes embarked on more grantee partner visits in South Africa. At the Wits Lung Laboratory in Helen Joseph Hospital, they met Dr. Anita Graham, who in 2018 established a unit that now provides services in diagnosis, staging, management and palliative care, shifting the outlook on lung cancer in South Africa to equitable, advanced and consistent care. They joined a community outreach event with Afia Tai at an informal settlement without a primary healthcare clinic, where Afia Tai’s team provided cervical cancer screening services to local women and introduced them to members of its cancer support group for patients and their families. And at the Soweto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (SCCC) at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nthabiseng Makgana shared how adult oncology and palliative care units and a new smoking cessation support group — one of the few structured cessation programs operating on the continent — are transforming local care. Smoking cessation programs are exceptionally rare across Africa, and the BMS Foundation grant to the SCCC is bringing this evidence-based, preventive service and assistance to people who are committed to quit smoking.

“What struck me most was the joy and hope we witnessed,” Grimes said. “The support group wasn’t just about quitting smoking. It was about rebuilding confidence, community and self-belief.”

“Everywhere we went, we saw the same thing — courage in the face of adversity, hope where there was once none and a fierce determination to build a better future,” added Bartie.

Looking ahead

While persistent challenges for access and equitable care in Africa remain, the BMS Foundation and its grantee partners are making significant strides to break down barriers and are building local health capacity, driving sustainable care that can transform the lives of patients and their families.

“Expanding access to high-quality care in partnership with local leaders is at the core of our mission,” said Grimes. “There is more to be done, but we are already seeing the difference these collaborations are making in the lives of patients and families.”

Originally published on Bristol Myers Squibb News & Perspectives

For many cancer patients throughout Africa, the journey to diagnosis and treatment can be long and uncertain. But across the continent, communities and local leaders are working to change that reality. The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (BMS Foundation), an independent charitable organization, is proud to support many of these changemakers by strengthening cancer care systems and improving access to quality care, closer to home.

Recently, BMS Foundation President Catharine Grimes and members of the BMS Foundation team traveled to Africa to witness firsthand the impactful work of their grantee partners and meet with patients in various communities. The trip highlighted the profound impact of local efforts to transform health outcomes, and the unwavering commitment of the people working tirelessly to improve and save lives.

Their journey began in Kitui County, Kenya, where cervical and breast cancer are the leading causes of death among women of reproductive age, and access to treatment locally was once virtually unattainable. For years, patients had to travel over 150 miles to Nairobi for specialty care, often sleeping in hospital corridors. But today, the Phangisile Mtshali Cancer Center stands as a beacon of hope. Established in partnership with the Centre for Medical Mobilisation Board (CMMB) and the Kitui County Ministry of Health, the center has served more than 600 new patients and recorded over 5,400 revisits in just two years. It has also served as a hub for coordinating life-saving public health interventions, including reaching over 36,500 girls aged 10–14 with the HPV vaccine as a critical step toward advancing the WHO’s 90-70-90 cervical cancer elimination strategy.

“The Phangisile Mtshali Cancer Center has become a lifeline for cancer patients in Kitui county,” said Grimes. “Survivors bravely shared their stories with us, and they spoke with deep gratitude for this center that has changed their lives. It reaffirmed for us that when care is close to home, everything changes — outcomes, trust and lives. That is the power of building strong local systems that are responsive to the needs of the community.”

The BMS Foundation next traveled to Kisumu County, joining grantee partner Cure Cervical Cancer Kenya’s Mobile Health for Mamas program. Their community health campaign model uses home-based human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling, mobile treatment outreaches where eligible HPV-positive women who receive same-day diagnosis are invited for visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and are offered free thermal ablation treatment and patient navigation services.

“This initiative is grassroots public health at its finest,” Grimes shared. “Women from remote areas are able to access critical screening and treatment, and they are cared for with compassion and respect. The commitment of these health workers is nothing short of inspiring.”

Since 2021, the program has screened over 47,000 women for HPV and treated more than 8,000 HPV-positive patients in Kenya.

That same commitment to community-led, patient-centered care was on full display as the Foundation team continued on to other grantee sites. In Durban, South Africa, they participated in the Cancer & Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit-University of KwaZulu Natal’s (CIDERU-UKZN) mobile X-ray outreach in one of the implementing sites, which was made possible in collaboration with other CIDERU-UKZN partners, showcasing the power of inclusive interventions at the community level. They also toured the newly renovated lung cancer unit at Addington Hospital, which is focused on reducing the proportion of patients being diagnosed with lung cancer in stages 3 & 4 and increasing the volume of patients being diagnosed at earlier stages (1 & 2), ultimately saving lives.

And at the CANSA Mkhuhla Care Home, they met patients who received housing, meals, counseling and a supportive community after traveling long distances for treatment.

In Eldoret, Kenya, at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Uasin-Gishu County, the team made a visit to one of the facilities, Kamalel Health Centre in Kesses Sub-County. They witnessed local efforts to build community awareness, improve early detection and connect patients to treatment through navigation and peer support.

One patient, Martin Ijakaa, shared how the program not only connected him to treatment, but also restored his sense of dignity. Mr. Ijakaa had experienced vision loss and severe neurological symptoms but received no treatment plan or support despite visiting various facilities outside MTRH, including the capital Nairobi. He was ultimately reached by a patient navigator from the BMS Foundation supported project, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program (AMPATH MLCCP). After evaluation, procedures for biopsy and access to critical diagnostic tests, he was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma. He received appropriate management that included radiotherapy and a targeted therapy — as well as complementary support through home visits, peer support groups and counseling. Today Martin continues to do well, enjoying life and his family.

“Meeting Martin reminded us that behind every initiative is a human story,” said Grimes. “There is a story of struggle, but also of resilience. Martin’s journey reminds us why this work matters. Our partners are giving their patients a reason to believe in tomorrow.”

The Africa Grantee Summit: Learning, connection and shared purpose

These site visits set the stage for the BMS Foundation’s annual Africa Grantee Summit in Johannesburg, where grantee partners from across the continent convened to share progress, challenges, and opportunities to continue to grow their programs. Sessions focused on evaluation, research readiness, community-based innovation and sustainability, and provided the opportunity for celebration, collaboration and unity around shared purpose.

Joining Grimes was Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Board Member and Bristol Myers Squibb Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Wendy Short Bartie, whose presence underscored sustained commitment to the work.

“The BMS Foundation’s ethos is to put patients and people first, and to act with conviction to change outcomes where the need is greatest,” said Bartie. “That commitment is evident in the grantee partnerships it has established. The work being done across Africa shows that, even in the face of enormous challenges, it is possible to create lasting change and develop solutions that transform health outcomes and save lives.”

Renewed commitment: Post-Summit site visits

Following the Grantee Summit, Bartie and Grimes embarked on more grantee partner visits in South Africa. At the Wits Lung Laboratory in Helen Joseph Hospital, they met Dr. Anita Graham, who in 2018 established a unit that now provides services in diagnosis, staging, management and palliative care, shifting the outlook on lung cancer in South Africa to equitable, advanced and consistent care. They joined a community outreach event with Afia Tai at an informal settlement without a primary healthcare clinic, where Afia Tai’s team provided cervical cancer screening services to local women and introduced them to members of its cancer support group for patients and their families. And at the Soweto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (SCCC) at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nthabiseng Makgana shared how adult oncology and palliative care units and a new smoking cessation support group — one of the few structured cessation programs operating on the continent — are transforming local care. Smoking cessation programs are exceptionally rare across Africa, and the BMS Foundation grant to the SCCC is bringing this evidence-based, preventive service and assistance to people who are committed to quit smoking.

“What struck me most was the joy and hope we witnessed,” Grimes said. “The support group wasn’t just about quitting smoking. It was about rebuilding confidence, community and self-belief.”

“Everywhere we went, we saw the same thing — courage in the face of adversity, hope where there was once none and a fierce determination to build a better future,” added Bartie.

Looking ahead

While persistent challenges for access and equitable care in Africa remain, the BMS Foundation and its grantee partners are making significant strides to break down barriers and are building local health capacity, driving sustainable care that can transform the lives of patients and their families.

“Expanding access to high-quality care in partnership with local leaders is at the core of our mission,” said Grimes. “There is more to be done, but we are already seeing the difference these collaborations are making in the lives of patients and families.”

#GivingTuesday ushers in the ‘giving season’ for many communities around the world. With so many charitable causes and requests for support, it’s natural to wonder where a donation is needed most, if there’s a “right way” to give, and how much you should give. 

Lenovo’s global corporate citizenship team is here to help. From building community partnerships to guiding employee giving programs, we’ve seen what works and what truly lasts. Read on for ‘pro tips’ and don’t forget to give back this giving season! 

• Know which causes are most important to you. It may seem simple, but knowing what’s valuable to you and what you want to achieve with an investment of time or money is an important first step. If you’re not sure, reflect on causes that have motivated you to take action and make time to volunteer. Similarly, are there causes that you would give to, even if it meant not being able to buy something for yourself?  These are the causes that deserve your support. 
  – Alice Damasceno, Director, Latin America Corporate Citizenship and ESG Comms
• There is no right or wrong way to give. Just focus on what makes the biggest positive difference to the causes you care about. Organizations that provide direct services (think: aid organizations that provide food, water and shelter after a natural disaster) are as important as organizations that create systemic change (think: building clean water infrastructure in remote communities). If you’re just getting started, it can help to talk to friends and family about the causes they care about and how they give. 
  – Libby Richards, NA Community Engagement Manager, North America ISO
• Figure out where your support can have the greatest impact. Think about the problems that matter to you and then look for the organizations that can turn your contribution into the biggest possible positive change. Check out reports and consider where your funds can go the furthest!   
  – Camila Piscicelli, Program Manager, Latin America Corporate Citizenship
• BUT – Consider the impact you want to make. Do you want to reach as many people as possible or cause the biggest transformation possible for one person? There is no wrong answer. Some causes may seem “inefficient” when you’re comparing numbers, but their programs are important and have a deep impact. 
  – Alicja Skalna, Program Manager, EMEA Corporate Citizenship  
• Every gesture, big or small, helps build a more inclusive and resilient society. The most powerful acts of giving are those that respond to the real needs of our communities—whether that means volunteering, sharing resources, or simply lending a helping hand. Let’s celebrate the spirit of giving by uplifting each other in ways that matter most. 
  – Pratima Harite, Head of Corporate Citizenship, Asia Pacific
• If possible, give your time before your money. Volunteering with an organization can help you understand their needs, strengths, and how you can best support them. Also, an organization that manages volunteer time well is probably good at managing other precious resources!   
  – Monica Hauser Wolff, Director, Global Corporate Citizenship and ESG Comms
• Don’t worry too much about the size of the contribution. Pick one or two organizations to consistently give to and notice authentic times for you to give (cash or time) throughout the year such as holidays, bonuses, birthdays, or celebrating other milestones… Consistent support adds up over time (especially if your company will match your gift)!   
  – Sydni Behm, Strategic Program Manager, Global Corporate Citizenship
• Giving can be an act of gratitude. Some people feel their best simply by giving, no matter to whom. The Love on platform makes it easy to say ‘thanks’ with thousands of vetted charities, including Lenovo’s major partners. If you haven’t tried it before, start with any cause and a small amount—and remember: give without expecting anything in return. 
  – Santiago Mendez Galvis, Head of Corporate Citizenship, EMEA 

Learn more about Lenovo’s global philanthropy and employee giving programs like Love on Month of Service in Lenovo’s latest ESG Report. 

HAMILTON, Bermuda, December 17, 2025 /3BL/ – Family-owned Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, reaffirmed its commitment to giving back by hosting its 4th annual ‘250 Holiday Meals’ initiative last week in partnership with The Salvation Army. Held at the North Street Citadel in Hamilton, Bacardi volunteers served 250 hot holiday meals to individuals and families experiencing hardship this season.

With holiday classics prepared by local favorite Soul Food Grill and Café, and desserts donated by Bacardi employees, the festive event offered warmth, nourishment, and human connection during what can be a difficult time for many.

This year’s initiative comes as the Salvation Army faces a surge in demand for its services. The organization now supports upwards of 800 individuals weekly, an increase that reflects broader economic pressures on vulnerable Bermudians. Captain Dennis Maybury of the Salvation Army recently issued a call for public support to help meet rising needs through their annual Christmas fundraising campaign.

“Bacardi’s continued partnership is a vital source of hope for those we serve,” said Captain Maybury. “As food insecurity and housing instability rise across Bermuda, it is heartening to witness corporate citizens like Bacardi step forward. These meals do more than feed — they uplift.”

Douglas Mello, Managing Director of Bacardi International Limited, added: “This initiative reflects the heart of our family-owned business. Our commitment to the Bermuda community is unwavering, and it’s an honor to support the Salvation Army’s tireless efforts, especially at a time when demand for their services has never been higher.”

Bacardi encourages the public to answer the Salvation Army’s appeal. Donations of canned goods, shelf-stable pantry items like milk, oatmeal, and tea, or financial contributions can make a direct difference. Items can be dropped off at the North Street Citadel Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs approximately 8,000, operates production facilities in 10 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, December 17, 2025 /3BL/ – Family-owned Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, reaffirmed its commitment to giving back by hosting its 4th annual ‘250 Holiday Meals’ initiative last week in partnership with The Salvation Army. Held at the North Street Citadel in Hamilton, Bacardi volunteers served 250 hot holiday meals to individuals and families experiencing hardship this season.

With holiday classics prepared by local favorite Soul Food Grill and Café, and desserts donated by Bacardi employees, the festive event offered warmth, nourishment, and human connection during what can be a difficult time for many.

This year’s initiative comes as the Salvation Army faces a surge in demand for its services. The organization now supports upwards of 800 individuals weekly, an increase that reflects broader economic pressures on vulnerable Bermudians. Captain Dennis Maybury of the Salvation Army recently issued a call for public support to help meet rising needs through their annual Christmas fundraising campaign.

“Bacardi’s continued partnership is a vital source of hope for those we serve,” said Captain Maybury. “As food insecurity and housing instability rise across Bermuda, it is heartening to witness corporate citizens like Bacardi step forward. These meals do more than feed — they uplift.”

Douglas Mello, Managing Director of Bacardi International Limited, added: “This initiative reflects the heart of our family-owned business. Our commitment to the Bermuda community is unwavering, and it’s an honor to support the Salvation Army’s tireless efforts, especially at a time when demand for their services has never been higher.”

Bacardi encourages the public to answer the Salvation Army’s appeal. Donations of canned goods, shelf-stable pantry items like milk, oatmeal, and tea, or financial contributions can make a direct difference. Items can be dropped off at the North Street Citadel Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs approximately 8,000, operates production facilities in 10 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, December 17, 2025 /3BL/ – Family-owned Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, reaffirmed its commitment to giving back by hosting its 4th annual ‘250 Holiday Meals’ initiative last week in partnership with The Salvation Army. Held at the North Street Citadel in Hamilton, Bacardi volunteers served 250 hot holiday meals to individuals and families experiencing hardship this season.

With holiday classics prepared by local favorite Soul Food Grill and Café, and desserts donated by Bacardi employees, the festive event offered warmth, nourishment, and human connection during what can be a difficult time for many.

This year’s initiative comes as the Salvation Army faces a surge in demand for its services. The organization now supports upwards of 800 individuals weekly, an increase that reflects broader economic pressures on vulnerable Bermudians. Captain Dennis Maybury of the Salvation Army recently issued a call for public support to help meet rising needs through their annual Christmas fundraising campaign.

“Bacardi’s continued partnership is a vital source of hope for those we serve,” said Captain Maybury. “As food insecurity and housing instability rise across Bermuda, it is heartening to witness corporate citizens like Bacardi step forward. These meals do more than feed — they uplift.”

Douglas Mello, Managing Director of Bacardi International Limited, added: “This initiative reflects the heart of our family-owned business. Our commitment to the Bermuda community is unwavering, and it’s an honor to support the Salvation Army’s tireless efforts, especially at a time when demand for their services has never been higher.”

Bacardi encourages the public to answer the Salvation Army’s appeal. Donations of canned goods, shelf-stable pantry items like milk, oatmeal, and tea, or financial contributions can make a direct difference. Items can be dropped off at the North Street Citadel Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs approximately 8,000, operates production facilities in 10 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Kitty Broihier

My friend and fellow Guiding Stars blogging colleague, Allison Stowell, and I recently returned from the world’s largest dietitian conference, the annual conference of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. We listened and learned from a variety of presentations and events, and tasted our way through many product exhibits (our favorite part).

There’s a lot to learn from talking to food company representatives. Food manufacturers and trade boards stay current on trends to keep up with (or get ahead of) their competitors. Spending time with the folks working the expo usually reveals what food and nutrition trends are coming next. Here is a taste of the trends we see taking shape for 2026.

Protein and Fiber Team Up

For the past couple of years, protein has dominated new product introductions in the “healthy foods” market. Consumers are certainly still interested in the protein content of their food and overall diet, and food manufacturers and their marketing teams aren’t letting go of protein as a selling point yet, but this year, fiber is finally getting its fair share of the spotlight. For appetite control and weight management in particular, protein and fiber are a great team. They both impact satiety hormones, and hang out longer in the digestive tract, thereby contributing to a sense of fullness. Woven into this trend is a great opportunity for plant-forward brands to highlight the fact that both protein and fiber are naturally present in their products. These include protein bars, snack foods, and vegetarian protein powders (dairy-based powders are generally devoid of fiber).

GLP-1 Medications Impacting Products and Priorities

Appetite-reducing glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist medications (GLP-1s) are already immensely popular for managing diabetes/blood sugar levels and weight. Naturally, these powerful drugs are causing changes in the food and nutrition landscape. For example, according to a report by KPMG, the average GLP-1 user is spending roughly 31% less on food monthly. And consuming an estimated 21% fewer calories annually than before using the medications. That large decrease in food consumption means these consumers are prioritizing smaller portions. As a result, food manufacturers are racing to highlight their portion-controlled offerings with “GLP-1 friendly” label callouts.

Nutrient needs, such as for protein, can be higher in those who are actively losing weight. This gives food companies the added challenge of packing more nutrition into smaller portions. GLP-1 medication users also need to focus on hydration (the sense of thirst can be diminished) and fiber (constipation is a common side effect). To that end, the newer, boosted beverages and functional sodas may fit the bill nicely. And as we’ve all seen, more of them show up on the shelves every day. Look for more single-serve beverage options with added ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, fiber, and other nutrients. Snack options that capitalize on the win-wins of protein plus fiber are good choices too.

Gut Health Goes Mainstream

Gone are the days when talking about your digestive system’s functioning was reserved for the doctor’s office. Conditions like IBS, lactose intolerance, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and their symptoms are getting more attention in the media and also by the food industry. The expo floor showcased plenty of products created to support healthy gut function and address gut-related conditions. There are now more fermented food options and a wider variety of foods that tout ingredients that specifically support the gut microbiome (like pre-, pro- and post-biotics).

Keeping the gut happy also includes removing substances that might upset things, like artificial sweeteners, some emulsifiers, and certain fibers. (FYI, Guiding Stars updated its guidance around artificial sweeteners in 2024.) Increased dialogue around gut function (and results) and destigmatization of the digestive system are developments that dietitians love to see!

Keeping It Simple, Real, and Whole

Highlighting whole food ingredients and limiting the number of ingredients in food products are trends that started a while ago, but they seem to really be hitting their stride now. This might be due to the extra attention on the role of ultra-processed foods lately. Or maybe because life seems complicated right now and simple food feels like an antidote. Whatever the cause, we’re here for it.

Minimalist ingredient lists aren’t being put forth as “cleaner” per se, but rather as a return to “real food.” The pendulum is swinging away from over-fortified, over-packaged, and over-hyped products (lookin’ at you, pumped-up protein bars and snack foods). These days, when it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not, enjoying a simple cracker that has just five ingredients feels reassuring, even comforting. Don’t get me wrong, these foods aren’t boring. Instead, they allow quality ingredients to shine and remind us that traditional recipes and whole foods will always deserve a place at the table.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image by Freepik

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Kitty Broihier

My friend and fellow Guiding Stars blogging colleague, Allison Stowell, and I recently returned from the world’s largest dietitian conference, the annual conference of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. We listened and learned from a variety of presentations and events, and tasted our way through many product exhibits (our favorite part).

There’s a lot to learn from talking to food company representatives. Food manufacturers and trade boards stay current on trends to keep up with (or get ahead of) their competitors. Spending time with the folks working the expo usually reveals what food and nutrition trends are coming next. Here is a taste of the trends we see taking shape for 2026.

Protein and Fiber Team Up

For the past couple of years, protein has dominated new product introductions in the “healthy foods” market. Consumers are certainly still interested in the protein content of their food and overall diet, and food manufacturers and their marketing teams aren’t letting go of protein as a selling point yet, but this year, fiber is finally getting its fair share of the spotlight. For appetite control and weight management in particular, protein and fiber are a great team. They both impact satiety hormones, and hang out longer in the digestive tract, thereby contributing to a sense of fullness. Woven into this trend is a great opportunity for plant-forward brands to highlight the fact that both protein and fiber are naturally present in their products. These include protein bars, snack foods, and vegetarian protein powders (dairy-based powders are generally devoid of fiber).

GLP-1 Medications Impacting Products and Priorities

Appetite-reducing glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist medications (GLP-1s) are already immensely popular for managing diabetes/blood sugar levels and weight. Naturally, these powerful drugs are causing changes in the food and nutrition landscape. For example, according to a report by KPMG, the average GLP-1 user is spending roughly 31% less on food monthly. And consuming an estimated 21% fewer calories annually than before using the medications. That large decrease in food consumption means these consumers are prioritizing smaller portions. As a result, food manufacturers are racing to highlight their portion-controlled offerings with “GLP-1 friendly” label callouts.

Nutrient needs, such as for protein, can be higher in those who are actively losing weight. This gives food companies the added challenge of packing more nutrition into smaller portions. GLP-1 medication users also need to focus on hydration (the sense of thirst can be diminished) and fiber (constipation is a common side effect). To that end, the newer, boosted beverages and functional sodas may fit the bill nicely. And as we’ve all seen, more of them show up on the shelves every day. Look for more single-serve beverage options with added ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, fiber, and other nutrients. Snack options that capitalize on the win-wins of protein plus fiber are good choices too.

Gut Health Goes Mainstream

Gone are the days when talking about your digestive system’s functioning was reserved for the doctor’s office. Conditions like IBS, lactose intolerance, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and their symptoms are getting more attention in the media and also by the food industry. The expo floor showcased plenty of products created to support healthy gut function and address gut-related conditions. There are now more fermented food options and a wider variety of foods that tout ingredients that specifically support the gut microbiome (like pre-, pro- and post-biotics).

Keeping the gut happy also includes removing substances that might upset things, like artificial sweeteners, some emulsifiers, and certain fibers. (FYI, Guiding Stars updated its guidance around artificial sweeteners in 2024.) Increased dialogue around gut function (and results) and destigmatization of the digestive system are developments that dietitians love to see!

Keeping It Simple, Real, and Whole

Highlighting whole food ingredients and limiting the number of ingredients in food products are trends that started a while ago, but they seem to really be hitting their stride now. This might be due to the extra attention on the role of ultra-processed foods lately. Or maybe because life seems complicated right now and simple food feels like an antidote. Whatever the cause, we’re here for it.

Minimalist ingredient lists aren’t being put forth as “cleaner” per se, but rather as a return to “real food.” The pendulum is swinging away from over-fortified, over-packaged, and over-hyped products (lookin’ at you, pumped-up protein bars and snack foods). These days, when it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not, enjoying a simple cracker that has just five ingredients feels reassuring, even comforting. Don’t get me wrong, these foods aren’t boring. Instead, they allow quality ingredients to shine and remind us that traditional recipes and whole foods will always deserve a place at the table.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image by Freepik