Tag: PR Newswire

SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) is warning that a proposed bill could add costly new requirements for advanced manufacturing, deterring investment in the high-cost state.

Just last year, California took steps to attract advanced manufacturing, recognizing the industry’s role in strengthening supply chains, driving innovation, and reducing emissions through in-state production.

Now, Senate Bill 954 (Blakespear, 2026) would push that progress in the opposite direction by adding new layers of approvals and costly requirements, narrowing build locations, and creating more uncertainty for companies looking to invest in California.

“California made a clear commitment to attract advanced manufacturing investment, and SB 954 sends the opposite message,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA. “Manufacturers need certainty. When the state adds new hurdles and changes the rules in such a short timeframe, companies will look to other states or countries where they can build faster and more affordably.”

Building a facility in California already requires navigating complex environmental, safety, and local approvals that can take years to complete. In industries like clean energy and technology, those delays can determine whether a project is built in California or elsewhere.

SB 954 increases the risk that companies delay, scale back, or move out of state.

Manufacturing makes California stronger. Careers in the industry provide strong wages and long-term opportunities. Beyond jobs, producing goods in California—where environmental and labor standards are among the highest in the world—results in significantly lower impacts than in many other states.

“When advanced manufacturing investment leaves California, it goes to states or countries that are more welcoming,” Hastings added. “That means fewer jobs here and often higher global emissions. If California wants to lead on climate and innovation, we should be making it easier to manufacture here. SB 954 moves us in the wrong direction.”

SB 954 passed out of the Senate Environmental Quality Committee on a 5-2 vote and now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

CMTA urges policymakers to maintain a stable business environment that supports advanced manufacturing investment, starting with rejecting SB 954.

About CMTA

CMTA has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $382 billion per year, roughly 10% of the state’s GDP. Manufacturers employ 1.2 million Californians. For more, visit cmta.net.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-bill-could-add-costly-new-barriers-to-advanced-manufacturing-302743842.html

SOURCE California Manufacturers & Technology Association

Florida Crystals Corporation is proud of its more than 30-year role in the immensely successful public-private partnership that has restored America’s Everglades and for its part in helping accelerate the EAA Reservoir project.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Florida Crystals Corporation congratulates the State of Florida and Army Corps of Engineers for finalizing all contracts to build the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir.

“Florida Crystals has supported the EAA Reservoir since it was first authorized almost 30 years ago as part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan,” said Pepe Fanjul, Jr., Co-President of Florida Crystals. “We advocated for the passage of CERP in 2000, and we’re extremely proud of the role we played to facilitate acceleration of the EAA Reservoir’s construction.”

In 2019, Florida Crystals voluntarily terminated leases early with the State of Florida and the South Florida Water Management District to make land available in the EAA Reservoir Project’s footprint to facilitate its expedited schedule, including terminating a lease early that had a term through 2045. Transitioning the farmland subject to those leases early to the government was pivotal to helping meet the reservoir’s 2029 completion goal.

“For decades, the EAA Reservoir has been hailed as the final and most important project to restore the southern Everglades, so this is a great moment for Everglades restoration,” said Gaston Cantens, Vice President of Florida Crystals. “We commend the Governor and the Army Corps for this milestone in finalizing Everglades restoration.”

The collaboration between EAA farmers, who have carried out the work on the ground, day-to-day for more than 30 years to supply clean water to the Everglades, and the government in the monumental task of restoring the Everglades is a model for the overwhelming success a public-private partnership can accomplish.

Florida Crystals is tremendously proud to be a part of the EAA farming community, a remarkable group of farmers who supply America with a secure, reliable, U.S.-grown source of sugar, rice, vegetables, fruits and more, while also preserving the Everglades. As part of the 1994 Everglades Forever Act, EAA farmers implemented a science-based Best Management Practices (BMPs) program to help restore the Everglades. EAA farmers have invested heavily in the on-farm BMPs and monitoring to ensure clean water flows south to the Everglades. Annual water data consistently show water leaving the EAA farming basin is cleaner than when EAA farms received it from Lake Okeechobee. EAA farmers – the largest private funders of Everglades restoration – also pay an Agricultural Privilege Tax, which has generated approximately $350 million to fund the construction of Everglades projects and contributes to ongoing operations and maintenance costs. EAA farmers, including Florida Crystals, have also given up more than 100,000 acres of the most productive farmland in the U.S. for restoration projects.

“We look forward to the EAA Reservoir coming online in a few short years, and we commend all the elected leaders, staff and the agricultural community over the past three decades who have worked together to make this goal a reality,” said Cantens.

About Florida Crystals Corporation
Florida Crystals Corporation is a vertically integrated cane sugar company that rotates sugarcane, rice and vegetables on more than 190,000 acres in South Florida, where it also owns two sugar mills, a sugar refinery, a packaging and distribution center, Florida’s only rice mill, and one of the largest renewable power plants of its kind in the U.S., which uses sugarcane fiber to generate eco-friendly energy that powers its sugar operations. Florida Crystals is Florida’s largest organic farmer and the only producer of Regenerative Organic Certified® sugar that is grown and milled in the U.S. and sold through the Florida Crystals® brand. Its subsidiary, ASR Group International, Inc., is the world’s largest cane sugar refining and marketing company and sells sugar under the Domino®, C&H®, Florida Crystals®, Redpath®, Tate & Lyle®, Lyle’s®, Sidul® and Whitworths® brands. It also owns Tellus Products, which makes single-use, compostable tableware products from plant fibers sold under the Tellus® brand. Florida Crystals Corporation and ASR Group International, Inc. are holding companies that conduct business through their subsidiaries and are headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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SOURCE Florida Crystals Corporation

BELLINGHAM, Wash., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lautenbach Recycling will celebrate Earth Day Wednesday, April 22nd with a ribbon cutting at 3:30 p.m. and a community open house from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at its new facility at 2885 E. Bakerview Road in Bellingham.

This event marks a major milestone for the company as it expands its operations to better serve Whatcom County. For years, many Bellingham residents and businesses have lacked a convenient local option for recycling construction and demolition materials and other valuable resources. The new facility directly addresses that need by accepting wood, metal, cardboard, and other commodities that might otherwise end up in landfills.

Developed in collaboration with local partners and organizations, Lautenbach’s Bakerview location makes recycling easier, more accessible, and more effective for the entire community.

Guests attending the event will have the opportunity to tour the facility, meet members of the Lautenbach Recycling team, and learn more about the how the company’s advances landfill diversion and sustainable materials recovery across Northwest Washington.

“Our goal has always been to make recycling more accessible while reducing the amount of material that ends up in landfills,” said Troy Lautenbach, President of Lautenbach Recycling. “Opening the Bellingham facility allows us to better serve the community and increase our success recovering valuable materials that can be reused.”

“Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to bring people together to see firsthand how local businesses and residents are working together to responsibly manage our resources,” Lautenbach said.

Lautenbach Recycling operates facilities in San Juan, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham, providing construction and demolition recycling, organics management, container services, and specialized hauling throughout the region.

Light refreshments will be provided during the event, and local leaders, community partners, and businesses will attend as the company celebrates the opening of its newest location.

“Recycling is ultimately a community effort,” Lautenbach added. “The more people understand how it works and participate in it, the greater the impact we can have together.”

For more information, visit www.lautenbachrecycling.com or contact the team directly to learn how Tony and the Lautenbach team can support your recycling goals.

Lautenbach Recycling is the largest family-owned recycling company in Washington State, founded in 1991 by brothers Troy and Torrey Lautenbach. Committed to responsible waste management and environmental sustainability, Lautenbach Recycling provides comprehensive services to residential and commercial clients in the Pacific Northwest. Our residential and industrial services include transportation, sustainable demolition, self-haul recycling, roll-off boxes, food waste depackaging, and composting. Lautenbach Recycling contributes to a greener future by efficiently processing and reusing materials, thereby conserving valuable resources and protecting our environment. As a family-owned and operated business, we take pride in our deep-rooted community values and strive to make a positive impact on our region. https://www.lautenbachrecycling.com

Lautenbach’s Family of Recycling Businesses includes:

• Skagit Soils – Providing green and organic waste composting services https://skagitsoilsinc.com
   
• San Juan Transfer Station – Recycling and garbage drop-off services for Friday Harbor and San Juan Island https://sanjuantransferstation.com
   
• NWR Container Rentals – Selling and Renting Storage Containers, Mobile Offices and Steel Road Plates: https://nwrcontainers.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lautenbach-recycling-to-celebrate-earth-day-with-grand-opening-of-bellingham-facility-302740212.html

SOURCE Lautenbach Recycling

KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sun Life U.S. has renewed its partnership with the Kansas City Royals for 5 years, through the 2030 baseball season. The partnership, which first began in 2017, allows Sun Life to continue building on previous community programming, including youth fitness and oral health programs and fundraising to support local non-profits in Kansas City.

“We are pleased to renew our partnership with the Royals and find new ways to make a positive impact in Kansas City,” said David Healy, president, Sun Life U.S. “We have a large office here and believe strongly in supporting the communities where our employees live and work, particularly in ways that benefit those in need. We are hopeful that our work with the Royals and our focus on improving the oral health of all will resonate with the Kansas City community and create excitement among the great fan base.”

With this new agreement, Sun Life and the Royals will collaborate with TeamSmile, a national non-profit that leverages relationships with sports teams and universities to hold large-scale dental clinics for local kids from underserved communities. Sun Life supports TeamSmile events across the country and helped launch the Dental Home Project, which establishes relationships for underserved youth with local dentists.

Throughout the baseball season, Sun Life and the Royals will conduct the “Every Single Smile” campaign, which will generate a $50 donation from Sun Life to TeamSmile for each Royals single during the regular season. The Royals and Sun Life will also host an additional TeamSmile clinic this fall, increasing access to oral healthcare for local children in need.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Sun Life and build on the meaningful work we’ve accomplished together over the past several years,” said Alex Schulte, vice president of Corporate Partnerships, Kansas City Royals. “Their commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community aligns closely with our values, and we’re excited to keep working together to make a lasting impact across Kansas City.”

First signing on as a Royals sponsor in 2017 Sun Life and The Kansas City Royals Foundation have run annual health clinics for local youth, and the season-long #StrikeoutDiabetes fundraising campaign to support health programs at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City. The agreement with the Royals also gives Sun Life top-tier game experience and hosting opportunities. Sun Life is also a sponsor and partner of the Boston Celtics and Maine Celtics.

Click here to learn more about Sun Life’s philanthropic partnerships and programming.

About Sun Life
Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the U.S., the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2025, Sun Life had total assets under management of C$1.60 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits, helping approximately 48 million Americans access the care and coverage they need. Through employers, industry partners and government programs, Sun Life U.S. offers a portfolio of benefits and services, including dental, vision, disability, absence management, life, supplemental health, medical stop-loss insurance, and healthcare navigation. Sun Life employs nearly 8,300 people in the U.S., including associates in our partner dental practices and affiliated companies in asset management. Group insurance policies are issued by Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (Wellesley Hills, Mass.), except in New York, where policies are issued by Sun Life and Health Insurance Company (U.S.) (Lansing, Mich.). For more information visit our website and newsroom.

Media contacts

Devon Fernald
Sun Life U.S.
Devon.Portney.Fernald@sunlife.com
781-800-3609

Connect with Sun Life U.S.

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SOURCE Sun Life U.S.

Fast‑casual brand to celebrate the grand opening of its third restaurant in Lee County on April 29, featuring a year of free chicken salad for guests

ATLANTA, April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chicken Salad Chick, the nation’s only fast casual chicken salad restaurant concept, announced today the opening of a brand-new restaurant in Lee County, Florida, located at 1206 Solaris Drive in Cape Coral. The new location features a convenient drive-thru, and the local community is invited to celebrate its grand opening on Wednesday, April 29, when the first 100 guests in line will win free chicken salad for a year*. 

During the grand opening week, guests can expect to experience the Southern hospitality Chicken Salad Chick is known for while taking advantage of various specials and giveaways. These include:

• Wednesday, April 29 – Free Chicken Salad for a Year to the First 100 Guests – The first guest in line at 10am will receive one FREE large Quick Chick of chicken salad per week for an entire year. The next 99 guests in line will receive one FREE large Quick Chick of chicken salad per month for a year.*
• Thursday, April 30 – The first 50 guests to purchase an entree with two sides will receive a FREE Teal Chick Cooler!**
• Friday, May 1 – The first 50 guests to purchase an entree with two sides will receive a FREE Navy Canvas Tote Bag!**
• Saturday, May 2 – The first 50 guests to purchase an entree with two sides will receive a FREE Teal Stainless Steel Tumbler!**
• Monday, May 4 – The first 50 guests to make a $12 purchase will win a FREE Scoop Bounceback Card!***

Chicken Salad Chick of Cape Coral is owned and operated by multi-unit franchise owners, Scott Pace and Kendal Potesta. The husband-and-wife duo opened their first Chicken Salad Chick back in 2022 in Fort Myers and have since opened up two more locations in Southwest Florida, including Estero and Port Charlotte. Cape Coral will mark their fourth location to open. Potesta grew up in the restaurant industry, while Pace brings a strong financial background from his years working on Wall Street. Together, their business experience and shared passion for “Spreading Joy, Enriching Lives, and Serving Others” helps them deliver outstanding customer service at each of their restaurants.

“Our love for Chicken Salad Chick began during a special time in our lives – when Kendal was expecting our first child. Chicken salad was one of the only foods she craved, so Chicken Salad Chick quickly became part of our routine after her appointments,” said Scott Pace, co-owner of Chicken Salad Chick Cape Coral. “Before long, we were inspired to open locations of our own and are so grateful to everyone who has been part of our entrepreneurial journey. We can’t wait to serve fresh, flavorful food with a side of warm hospitality to the Cape Coral community soon.”

Chicken Salad Chick is known for its dozen-plus variety of made-from-scratch chicken salad flavors, fresh sides, gourmet soups, signature sandwiches, and desserts. The new Cape Coral restaurant offers in-restaurant, drive-thru, take-out, third-party delivery, and catering options.

“We’re excited to continue expanding Chicken Salad Chick’s presence in Florida alongside Scott and Kendal,” said Scott Deviney, president and CEO of Chicken Salad Chick. “Cape Coral is a vibrant, fast growing, and family-friendly city that’s well-suited for our brand. Scott and Kendal are also the perfect partners to lead our growth in Southwest Florida. We’re confident their strong leadership skills, deep business expertise, and genuine love for The Chick will soon make the Cape Coral restaurant a beloved part of the community.”

Giving back to the community is an important focus for the Cape Coral team and the Chicken Salad Chick brand, which established the CSC Foundation to support CURE Childhood Cancer and local food banks with fundraisers throughout the year. As part of pre-opening Friends & Family events in Cape Coral, the restaurant will be raising money for Barbara’s Friends at Golisano’s Children Hospital, which is the childhood cancer fund that provides aid for patients and their families in Southwest Florida.

Chicken Salad Chick of Cape Coral will be open Monday – Saturday from 10am – 8pm. For more information on giveaways and specials, visit the Cape Coral restaurant’s Facebook. Visit www.chickensaladchick.com, and follow Chicken Salad Chick on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and trends.  

*Guests should arrive early to secure a place in line. The first 100 guests must remain in line and download the Chicken Salad Chick app. Wi-Fi will not be available on site. Once the restaurant opens, guests will make a purchase of an entree with one side, or anything of equal/greater value and enter a code in the Chicken Salad Chick app to officially secure their spot. If you leave the line for any reason, your spot will be awarded to the next guest in line. Guests will receive their first free large Quick Chick electronically to their app the Monday following Grand Opening Day. Your reward will be valid for redemption for 30 days upon delivery. Guest must be 16 years or older. Not valid with any other offers. Limit 1 reward per guest present.

**Guest must be 16 years or older and purchase an entree with two sides. Limit 1 reward per guest present. Not valid with any other offers. In-restaurant only.

***Guest must be 16 years or older and make a $12 minimum purchase. Limit 1 reward per guest present. Not valid with any other offers. In-restaurant only.

About Chicken Salad Chick   
Chicken Salad Chick serves full-flavored, Southern-style chicken salad made from scratch and served from the heart. With more than a dozen original chicken salad flavors plus fresh sides, soups, sandwiches, desserts and catering, there’s something for every guest and occasion. Chicken Salad Chick has grown to more than 330 restaurants across 22 states and continues its rapid expansion driven by a passionate network of franchise owners. The brand has earned consistent recognition from Entrepreneur, Franchise Times, Fast Casual, QSR, Southern Living and Technomic, among others. Visit chickensaladchick.com to learn more.

Contact:
Nayelis Bosa
Tidehouse
954-893-9150
nbosa@tidehouseagency.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chicken-salad-chick-continues-florida-growth-with-launch-of-cape-coral-location-302743691.html

SOURCE Chicken Salad Chick

Selected small businesses pitch U.S.-made products to Walmart during the Road to Open Call event for a chance to advance to Open Call

ORLANDO, Fla., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Walmart and the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando will host the 2026 Walmart Road to Open Call pitch event on May 21, 2026, in Orlando, giving selected small businesses the opportunity to present their American-made, shelf-ready products directly to Walmart. The Orlando stop is the only Road to Open Call event in Florida in 2026 and is part of a nationwide series designed to support small business growth, expand supplier assortment, and strengthen U.S. manufacturing.

Walmart’s Open Call is one of the company’s largest sourcing events for products made, grown, or assembled in the United States. The Road to Open Call series connects entrepreneurs with Walmart’s sourcing team and provides resources to support supplier growth ahead of the annual Open Call event in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Applications are open through May 1, 2026, at 10:00 p.m. EST at www.Walmart.com/RoadToOpenCall. Each selected entrepreneur will receive personalized feedback and mentorship from Walmart, and may also receive a Fast Pass to Walmart’s Open Call for the opportunity to pitch their products directly to Walmart merchants.

“The Road to Open Call provides a powerful platform for small businesses to gain valuable resources to help scale their businesses,” said Mark Espinoza, Senior Director of Public Affairs at Walmart. “By connecting entrepreneurs directly with our teams, we’re helping bring innovative, U.S.-made products to customers while supporting American jobs and local economies.”

“We are proud to partner with Walmart for the second consecutive year and to bring this opportunity to the business community,” said Pedro Turushina, President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando. “This initiative not only supports entrepreneurs but also strengthens our local economy by helping small businesses access national retail opportunities.”

Since launching in 2014, Walmart’s Open Call has helped hundreds of small businesses become Walmart suppliers, fueling local economies and driving innovation.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mercedes S. | publicrelations@hispanicchamber.com

Photo available HERE. More assets available upon request.

For more information, visit www.hispanicchamber.com or https://corporate.walmart.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/walmarts-road-to-open-call-returns-to-orlando-offering-big-opportunities-for-small-businesses-302743596.html

SOURCE Walmart and the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando

TYGES International releases a state-by-state analysis of BCBA workforce shortages exposing a nationwide autism care crisis and calls for urgent action.

WILLIAMSBURG, Va., Apr. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Across the U.S., families with autistic children are waiting months for ABA therapy — not because services don’t exist, but because there aren’t enough Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to provide them. Families encounter empty waiting lists, hundred-mile drives, and in many cases, no qualified provider at all within reach. These communities have a name: ABA care deserts. And they are far more widespread than most people realize.

The Numbers: A Shortage of Historic Proportions

TYGES International’s behavioral health practice published a first-of-its-kind state-by-state analysis of BCBA workforce distribution, drawing on BACB certification data, CDC autism prevalence figures, and U.S. Census estimates. Download the report to discover the stark findings:

• 74,286 BCBAs currently practicing in the U.S.
• ~362,500 needed to meet conservative demand
• ~288,000 estimated shortage
• 1 in 31 children identified with autism spectrum disorder (CDC, 2022)
• ~2.9 million children and young adults under 21 are estimated to be on the autism spectrum

The state-by-state picture is equally alarming. Wyoming has just 7.5 BCBAs per 100,000 residents. Mississippi: 8.1. Montana: 8.5. Massachusetts leads at 55.1, nearly seven times more than the worst-served states. Even well-ranked states mask access gaps, as BCBAs cluster in urban centers while rural families go without care. Simply put, the United States has approximately five times fewer BCBAs than needed (under a conservative planning scenario of 8 clients per clinician).

“The map of autism care in this country doesn’t match where children actually live. We have pockets of access and vast stretches of nothing. That’s not a gap — it’s a system failure,” says Carol Zimmerman, Director of Behavioral Health Practice, TYGES International. 

Closing the gap requires expanding BCBA training pipelines, improving clinician compensation and sustainability, removing telehealth policy barriers, and deploying specialized behavioral health recruiting to match talent to the communities that need it most. TYGES International’s behavioral health practice exists precisely for this purpose; placing qualified BCBAs in ABA clinics and autism service organizations nationwide.

Why This Matters

Early, intensive ABA therapy is among the most evidence-based treatments available for autism spectrum disorder. The research is clear: intervention during early childhood produces significantly better long-term outcomes in communication, adaptive behavior, and quality of life. Every month a child spends on a waiting list is a month inside that critical developmental window, gone.

Burnout, low reimbursement rates, and unsustainable caseloads are also pushing qualified clinicians out of direct practice. The TYGES analysis identifies these structural barriers as compounding factors that keep BCBA jobs unfilled even in communities with documented shortages. 

What Must Change

“This isn’t a problem we can train our way out of alone. Compensation must reflect the complexity of this work, telehealth policies need to be reviewed and encouraged in care deserts, and organizations need recruiting partners who know how to place clinicians where families are waiting. All these levers must move at the same time,” says Zimmerman.

Expand training pipelines. Graduate programs, universities, and healthcare systems must increase BCBA training capacity and reduce the financial barriers to supervised fieldwork hours.

1. Improve compensation and sustainability. Competitive pay, manageable caseloads, and strong clinical supervision infrastructure are essential to keeping BCBAs in the field.
2. Remove telehealth barriers. Policy reform allowing broader telehealth delivery of ABA services can extend BCBA reach into rural and underserved areas where in-person providers simply don’t exist.
3. Invest in targeted recruitment. Specialized search partners who understand behavioral health can connect qualified BCBAs to the clinics and communities that need them most, including the states at the bottom of the per-capita rankings.

About the Research

The TYGES International care desert analysis draws on data from the BACB, CDC, U.S. Census Bureau, and peer-reviewed ABA workforce research. The full report, including state-by-state tables, charts, and source citations, is publicly available at tyges.com.

TYGES International is a national executive search firm specializing in manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain recruiting, and behavioral health staffing with a focus on ABA therapy and BCBA placement. Learn more.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-deficit-of-288-000-bcbas-leads-to-widespread-us-autism-care-shortages-302743522.html

SOURCE TYGES

Milestone Solidifies Company’s Capabilities to Create Scalable, Commercial Supply of Real Cocoa Butter

TEL AVIV, Israel and NEW YORK, April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today Celleste Bio™ unveiled the world’s first milk chocolate bars made with real cocoa butter using cell suspension culture technology. This is a critical achievement for the cocoa tech leader in accelerating its capabilities to build a scalable, commercially viable cocoa supply.

The cocoa butter was used by Mondelēz International, Celleste’s strategic partner, to create a nearly a dozen chocolate bars that met the integrity and consumption standards for its products.

This milestone demonstrates Celleste’s cell cultured ingredients are bio-identical to conventionally grown cocoa – meaning they deliver the same texture, melt profile and sensory experience, and sets the stage for scaling production to market ready quantities within the next two years.

“Celleste launched in 2022 with the mission to secure a sustainable future for the global chocolate industry amidst increasing supply chain pressures of climate change, disease, traceability and geopolitical instability,” said Michal Beressi Golomb, CEO, Celleste Bio. “In three years we’ve made unprecedented progress to meet this formidable scientific challenge. We’ve validated our ingredients as drop-in replacements, created an operational R&D pilot facility to scale up our volumes and now proven our cocoa butter performs identically to conventional cocoa, clearing the next phase to commercial scale.”

Celleste is also poised to change the dynamic of the chocolate market. Its model is designed to leverage AI computational modeling to customize cocoa butter to customer specifications – such as higher melting points and taste experiences – that can allow manufacturers to uplevel their innovation and competitive advantage.

Celleste’s Chief Technical and Scientific Officer Hanne Volpin, PhD underscores the environmental upside of using cell cultured technology to supplement traditional growing methods.

“Building a resilient supply chain means being able to produce at commercial volumes while offsetting disruptions caused by climate change, deforestation and resource scarcity,” says Volpin. “We are on track to produce 1 ton of cocoa butter annually in a 1000 liter bioreactor from a single bean – which would otherwise require about a hectare of cocoa trees. To that end, we’ve curated a very robust bank of multiple cocoa bean varietals we can use to grow, test and scale material without ever having to cut down a single tree in the rainforest.”

To date, Celleste Bio has raised $5.6 million, including Mondelēz International as a strategic and design partner, along with Supply Change Capital, Trendlines, Barrel Ventures and non-dilutive grants.

About Celleste Bio
Celleste Bio is a food technology company developing cocoa ingredients through proprietary cell suspension culture technology. The company’s patented platform produces chocolate-grade cocoa butter that is bio-identical to conventionally sourced cocoa butter, offering a drop-in replacement that preserves the quality and functionality that chocolate makers and consumers depend on. Celleste is committed to building a more resilient, sustainable, and traceable future for chocolate lovers and the industry.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/celleste-bio-unveils-worlds-first-milk-chocolate-bars-made-with-cell-cultured-cocoa-butter-302743203.html

SOURCE Celleste Bio

ALAMEDA, Calif., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pyka, a California-based leader in autonomous electric aviation, today announced it will serve as the lead technology partner on the California Zero-Emission Aviation Demonstration Project. The project is funded by California Climate Investments through the California Air Resources Board’s Sustainable Heavy-Duty Initiatives for Future Technology (SHIFT) program and supported by the California Energy Commission (CEC).

Administered by the Foundation for California Community Colleges (FoundationCCC), the project will deploy one of the first large-scale commercial demonstrations of all-electric, autonomous aircraft in California agriculture. The multi-year project will demonstrate the real-world viability of zero-emission aviation by deploying Pyka’s all-electric autonomous Pelican 2 aircraft. The aircraft will operate under Federal Aviation Administration approvals for agricultural operations at Victoria Island Farms in California’s Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta.

Power will come primarily from off-grid solar charging systems, with additional support from project-funded zero-emission ground-support vehicles. Together, these systems will significantly reduce fossil fuel use associated with both flight operations and on-site agricultural support. The project brings together partners from industry, agriculture, and workforce development, including Pyka, Victoria Island Farms, Ogive Technology, Inc., NPower California, and the Bay Area Community College Consortium (BACCC).

“This project will demonstrate the scalability of zero-emission autonomous aircraft,” said Chuma Ogunwole, Chief Operating Officer of Pyka. “By operating autonomous electric aircraft at commercial scale in a real agricultural environment, we’re proving that aviation can reduce emissions today — not decades from now — while improving safety, efficiency, and community outcomes.”

Advancing CARB’s Climate, Equity, and Technology Goals
The California Zero-Emission Aviation Demonstration Project is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that uses Cap-and-Invest funds to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen the economy and improve public health and the environment, particularly in disadvantaged communities.

Over the course of the project, operations with Pyka’s aircraft are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide. The project is also expected to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter and other criteria pollutants by displacing conventional fossil-fuel-powered crop dusters and diesel agricultural equipment.

Additional benefits may include reduced noise pollution, improved application precision that can lower overall chemical use, and reduced spray drift in nearby communities.

“California’s responsibility to protect its citizens from harmful air pollution and the effects of climate change extends beyond cars and trucks,” said CARB Deputy Executive Officer of Mobile Sources & Incentives Christopher Grundler. “CARB investments in SHIFT projects like this one are taking zero-emissions technology to new heights and demonstrating that clean aviation is not only feasible, but already capable of doing many jobs better and cheaper than polluting alternatives.”

“The CEC is proud to fund the deployment of zero-emission aviation infrastructure for this pilot project,” said Melanie Vail, Deputy Director of the CEC Fuels and Transportation Division. “Zero-emission aviation is California’s next frontier, and this off-grid solar charging system could become an industry blueprint.”

The project also includes an equity-centered workforce development and training program, led by FoundationCCC in partnership with NPower California and BACCC. Through paid work experience, professional training pathways, and community college engagement, the program aims to prepare California residents for skilled, living-wage jobs in zero-emission aviation manufacturing and operations.

“This project reflects the kind of collaboration California needs to advance innovative technologies alongside workforce and economic development,” said Dr. Jeffrey Clary, Senior Director of Climate Strategies at the Foundation for California Community Colleges. “By combining zero-emission aviation with workforce initiatives, we’re working to deliver air quality benefits while building pathways into high-quality clean jobs in agriculture and aviation. FoundationCCC is proud to partner with Pyka and the project team on this first-of-its-kind demonstration.”

Building a Scalable Model for Zero-Emission Aviation
Pyka will manufacture and operate the aircraft from its Bay Area facility in Alameda, California, collecting detailed operational data throughout the demonstration. The data will support reporting to CARB and the CEC and help inform future policy development, regulatory pathways, and industry adoption. The project is designed as a replicable model that can be scaled across California’s agricultural sector and adapted to additional aviation uses, including cargo logistics and other critical services. Broader deployment could amplify long-term emissions reductions statewide and beyond.

“This investment demonstrates California’s leadership in tackling some of the most challenging decarbonization challenges,” Ogunwole added. “Aviation has long been one of the most difficult sectors to electrify. This project shows that with the right partners and technology, zero-emission flight is no longer a distant goal – it’s taking shape today.”

About Pyka:
Pyka is a robotics company on a mission to build the most useful autonomous aircraft on Earth. At the core of every Pyka aircraft is a vertically integrated aircraft-first robotics stack: proprietary flight control software, avionics, high-power density electric motors, motor controllers, batteries, and carbon fiber composite airframes, developed entirely in-house and manufactured in the United States of America. Learn more at www.flypyka.com.

About the Foundation for California Community Colleges (FoundationCCC):
The Foundation for California Community Colleges works to benefit students, colleges, and communities by accelerating paths to economic and social mobility, strengthening communities, and reducing barriers to opportunities for all Californians. FoundationCCC is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization founded in 1998. It serves as the official statewide nonprofit organization supporting the California Community Colleges, the largest system of higher education in the nation. For more information, visit www.foundationccc.org.

About the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and Sustainable Heavy-Duty Initiatives for Future Technology (SHIFT):
This project is part of SHIFT, a program administered by the California Air Resources Board and funded through California Climate Investments.

CARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. CARB is the lead agency for climate change programs and oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health-based air quality standards.

SHIFT is an incentive program administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) supporting the development and demonstration of advanced, low- and zero-emission technologies for heavy-duty vehicles, off-road equipment, and goods movement. Formerly known as Advanced Technology Demonstration and Pilot Projects, SHIFT investments help accelerate the transition of emerging technologies from pre-commercial demonstration to commercially available options by supporting early deployments and at-scale testing in real-world use. As a part of CARB’s Clean Transportation Incentives, SHIFT projects advance innovative on- and off-road solutions that reduce air pollution, improve public health and support California’s climate and air quality goals.

About California Climate Investments:
California Climate Investments uses billions of Cap-and-Invest dollars to fund projects that reduce harmful emissions, protect public health, strengthen local economies, and support natural environments. With a strong focus on communities most impacted by pollution and limited access to resources, California Climate Investments helps build a more equitable and sustainable future.

About the California Energy Commission (CEC):
The California Energy Commission supports the implementation of the SHIFT projects by contributing from its Emerging Opportunities fund for the purchase and installation of supporting infrastructure and workforce development investments. The California Energy Commission is the state’s primary energy policy and planning agency. It has seven core responsibilities: advancing state energy policy, encouraging energy efficiency, certifying power plants, investing in energy innovation, developing renewable energy, transforming transportation, and preparing for energy emergencies.

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SOURCE Pyka

LONDON, April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Persistence Market Research, a leading management consulting firm, has released this update on the construction chemicals market. These specialized materials enhance the performance, durability, and sustainability of construction projects across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors.

 

 

The global construction chemicals market is growing steadily, expected to be valued at around US$ 61.2 billion in 2026 and projected to reach US$ 89.0 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 5.5% in the coming years. This expansion is driven by increasing demand for high-performance and sustainable construction materials, alongside rapid urbanization and infrastructure investments worldwide. Construction chemicals such as concrete admixtures, waterproofing systems, sealants, and repair materials play a crucial role in improving structural integrity and extending the lifespan of buildings and infrastructure. Market dynamics reflect strong momentum supported by technological advancements, regulatory push for eco-friendly materials, and rising adoption of modern construction techniques.

Boom in Infrastructure Development and Urbanization

The global surge in infrastructure development and urban expansion is a primary driver of the construction chemicals market. Governments and private investors are allocating substantial funds toward transportation networks, energy systems, water infrastructure, and urban housing to accommodate population growth and economic development. India’s National Infrastructure Pipeline and China’s large-scale urban development initiatives continue to generate strong demand for concrete admixtures, waterproofing chemicals, and repair solutions. These materials are essential for ensuring durability, strength, and resistance to environmental stress in large-scale projects such as highways, bridges, tunnels, and smart cities.

Urban concentration in megacities such as Tokyo, New Delhi, and Shanghai further strengthens the need for high-performance construction chemicals capable of supporting high-rise buildings and complex infrastructure. In 2025, global infrastructure spending trends showed consistent growth, reinforcing demand for specialized construction inputs. Manufacturers are responding by developing innovative formulations that enhance material performance under extreme conditions while reducing maintenance costs. This ongoing construction boom ensures long-term growth opportunities for market players and supports economic development globally.

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Key Highlights

• The global construction chemicals market is projected to grow from US$ 61.2 billion in 2026 to US$ 89.0 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 5.5%.
• Asia Pacific leads the market, accounting for nearly 25% share, driven by rapid urbanization and mega infrastructure projects.
• Middle East & Africa emerges as the fastest-growing region, supported by large-scale investments and urban development initiatives.
• Waterproofing chemicals dominate product demand, capturing around 21% market share due to their critical role in structural durability.
• Concrete admixtures are the fastest-growing segment, fueled by demand for high-performance and sustainable construction materials.

Shift toward Sustainable and Green Construction Practices

The transition toward sustainable construction practices is transforming the construction chemicals market. Increasing environmental awareness and stringent regulations are pushing developers to adopt eco-friendly materials that reduce carbon emissions and improve indoor air quality. Green building certifications such as LEED and BREEAM are becoming standard requirements for modern construction projects, driving demand for low-VOC and bio-based construction chemicals. The construction sector accounts for nearly 39% of global carbon emissions, prompting governments and organizations to prioritize energy-efficient and sustainable building solutions. As a result, eco-friendly construction chemicals such as low-emission adhesives, sustainable concrete admixtures, and green waterproofing systems are gaining widespread adoption.

Countries such as South Korea and China are implementing stricter environmental standards to promote green buildings, while Europe and North America continue to enforce regulatory frameworks such as REACH and VOC emission limits. These regulations encourage manufacturers to innovate and develop sustainable product lines. Advancements in green chemistry and material science are enabling the development of high-performance products that meet both environmental and functional requirements. This shift not only enhances market growth but also positions sustainability as a core competitive factor in the industry.

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Key Highlight: Strategic Expansion by Saint-Gobain in Construction Chemicals Market (2025)

• A standout development in 2025 was the expansion of Saint-Gobain through the completed acquisition of Fosroc, a leading player in construction chemicals across Asia and emerging markets. This move significantly strengthens Saint-Gobain’s position in the global construction chemicals sector, enhancing its portfolio with advanced solutions such as admixtures, waterproofing, and repair systems.
• The deal reinforces Saint-Gobain’s strategic focus on high-growth regions, particularly Asia-Pacific, India, and the Middle East, where Fosroc has an established presence. By integrating Fosroc’s operations, the company expands its geographic footprint and gains access to a strong customer base in infrastructure and commercial construction segments, aligning with broader market growth trends identified in the construction chemicals industry.
• This expansion addresses increasing demand for high-performance and sustainable construction materials. The construction chemicals market is witnessing growth driven by rising infrastructure development, urbanization, and the need for durable and efficient building solutions. The acquisition enables Saint-Gobain to leverage Fosroc’s expertise to meet these evolving industry requirements and strengthen its competitive positioning.

This development highlights a broader shift in the construction chemicals market toward consolidation and expansion into emerging economies. Companies are increasingly focusing on strengthening capabilities and regional presence to capitalize on growing demand, particularly in infrastructure-driven markets.

Segmentation Insights: Waterproofing Chemicals Lead While Concrete Admixtures Drive Rapid Growth Momentum

Based on product type, waterproofing chemicals are expected to account for nearly 21% of the global construction chemicals market in 2026, supported by their critical role in protecting structures from water ingress and enhancing long-term durability across infrastructure and residential projects. Their widespread use in rooftops, basements, tunnels, and water-retaining structures continues to anchor their dominance. Meanwhile, concrete admixtures are projected to be the fastest-growing segment, creating a significant million-dollar absolute opportunity between 2026 and 2033, driven by rising demand for high-performance and sustainable construction materials. These admixtures improve concrete strength, workability, and lifecycle efficiency, making them essential for modern infrastructure. A key development shaping this segment is the increasing adoption of low-carbon and high-strength admixture formulations, as manufacturers innovate to meet sustainability regulations and green building standards, particularly across North America and Europe.

Regional Insights: Asia Pacific Dominates Market Share While Middle East & Africa Emerges as Fastest-Growing Region

Asia Pacific holds a leading position in the construction chemicals market, accounting for approximately 25% of market share, driven by rapid urbanization and large-scale infrastructure projects. China dominates regional demand due to extensive investments in transportation, smart cities, and renewable energy infrastructure, while India’s growth is fueled by initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission and increased infrastructure spending. North America follows with steady growth supported by a well-established construction industry and rising adoption of sustainable building practices. In 2025, the total value of construction in the United States reached approximately US$ 2.1 trillion, reflecting strong demand for advanced construction materials.

The Middle East and Africa are emerging as the fastest-growing regions, driven by large-scale infrastructure investments and urban development. Major projects in Saudi Arabia, including Vision 2030 initiatives such as NEOM and The Line, are significantly boosting demand for construction chemicals. Europe maintains stable growth supported by stringent environmental regulations and strong demand for energy-efficient buildings. Across regions, supply chains are evolving, with increasing localization of production to reduce costs and improve efficiency. These regional dynamics highlight diverse growth opportunities and the importance of strategic market positioning.

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Market Segmentation

By Product Type

• Concrete Admixture
  • Plasticizer (lingo, SNF, PCE)
  • Accelerator
  • Retarder
  • Air Enterainer
• Water Proofing Chemicals
  • Bitumen
  • PVC
  • EPDM
  • TPO
  • PTFE
  • Silicone
  • Acrylic polymer
  • SBR – Styrene-butadiene
  • Cementitious Membrane
  • PU membrane – Liquid applied membrane
  • Crystalline
  • Additives in water proofing
• Protective Coating
  • Epoxy
  • Polyurethane
  • Acrylic
  • Alkyd
  • Polyester
  • Others

• Adhesives & Sealants
• Adhesives
  • Tile Adhesive
    • Cemintitous
    • Epoxy
  • Tile Adhesive
    • Cementitous
    • Epoxy
• Sealants
  • Silicone
  • MS Hybrid
  • PU
  • Weatherproof Silicone
  • Polysulfide
• Concrete Repair Mortar
  • Cement based
  • Epoxy based
  • Micro concrete
• Plaster
  • Cement Based
  • Gypsum Based
• Asphalt Additives

By Application

• Commercial
• Residential
• Industrial
• Institutional
• Infrastructure

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• East Asia
• South Asia & Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Key Players and Business Strategies

Leading players include Sika AG, Saint-Gobain, Mapei S.p.A., 3M Company, and Pidilite Industries.

• Sika AG focuses on expanding its global footprint through acquisitions and advanced product innovations targeting high-performance construction solutions.
• Saint-Gobain emphasizes sustainability and strategic acquisitions to strengthen its eco-friendly product portfolio.
• Mapei invests in R&D to develop durable and environmentally compliant construction chemicals for diverse applications.
• 3M Company leverages material science expertise to introduce innovative bonding and sealing solutions.
• Pidilite Industries expands its presence in emerging markets through localized manufacturing and strong distribution networks.

Strategies across the market emphasize sustainability, product innovation, regional expansion, and digital integration. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing eco-friendly solutions, enhancing performance characteristics, and forming strategic partnerships to maintain competitive advantage.

Get More Insights — Specialty & Fine Chemicals Market Reports:

Specialty Chemicals Market by Product Type (Agrochemicals, Dyes and Pigments, Construction Chemicals, Specialty Polymers, Textile Chemicals, Base Ingredients, Surfactants, Functional Ingredients, Water Treatment, Others), Application (Institutional & Industrial Cleaners, Rubber Processing Chemicals, Construction Chemicals, Food & Feed Additives, Cosmetic Chemicals, Oilfield Chemicals), and Regional Analysis for 2025 – 2032

Cement Additives Market by Additives Type (Chemical, Mineral, Fiber), Function (Water Reducers, Coloring Agents, Retarding Agents, Chemical Resistance, Plasticizers, Others), and Regional Analysis for 2025 – 2032

Building & Construction Sealants Market by Resin Type (Silicone, Polysulfide, Polyurethane, Emulsion, Plastisol, and Butyl-based), Technology (Reactive, Water-based, Solvent-based, and Others), Function (Bonding, Protection, Insulation, Glazing & Seal, and Others), Application, End-user, and Regional Analysis for 2026 – 2033

Wood Preservative Chemicals and Coatings Active Ingredients Market by Active Ingredient Type (Organic, Inorganic, Other), Use Class (UC 1/2 – Indoor, UC 3 – Outdoor, UC 4 – Outdoor with Ground Contact, UC 5 – Marine), and Regional Analysis for 2026 – 2033

Concrete Admixtures Market by Product (Water-Reducing Agents, Accelerators and Retarders, Waterproofing, And Air-Entraining), Application (Residential, Infrastructure, Commercial, And Industrial), Form (Liquid and Powder), Regional Analysis for 2025 – 2032.

Polymer Concrete Market by Material Type (Polyester, Vinyl Ester, Epoxy-based, Other), Binding Agent (Natural Resin, Synthetic Resin), Application (Flooring Blocks, Containments, Pump Bases, Waste Containers, Other), Industry (Industrial, Residential, Infrastructure, Commercial), and Regional Analysis for 2025 – 2032

Sustainable Construction Market by Product Type (Interior, Exterior), Material (Green Building, Energy Efficient, Recycled, Others), End-User (Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure), and Regional Analysis for 2026-2033.

Wetting Additives Market by Product Type (For Solvent-Based Media, For Water-Based Media), Application (Paints & Coatings, Printing Inks, Adhesives & Sealants, Textiles, Plastics & Films), and Regional Analysis for 2026 – 2033

Precast Construction Market by Structure Type (Beam and Column, Floor and Roof, Bearing Wall), Construction (Modular, Residential Homes, Manufactured Homes), End-user (Residential, Industrial, Commercial), and Regional Analysis for 2026 – 2033

Construction Aggregates Market by Product Type (Crushed Stone Manufactured Sand, Natural Sand, Gravel, Recycled Aggregate, and Others), Application (Commercial, Residential, Industrial, and Infrastructures), and Regional Analysis for 2026 – 2033

About Persistence Market Research:

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SOURCE Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.