Tag: PR Newswire

ZHONGSHAN, China, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Since the launch of the “High-Quality Development Project for Counties, Towns and Villages,” Zhongshan City has implemented the “1310” development strategy put forward by CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee. Guided by these principles and following the directives given by Huang Kunming, Secretary of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee, during his visit to Zhongshan, the city has made this initiative its top priority. After three years of determined effort, the project is now yielding visible and meaningful results.

Zhongshan has advanced the project by focusing on transformation and upgrading of inefficient industrial parks in villages and towns and water pollution control. Over the past three years, the city has cleared and redeveloped more than 48,000 mu (around 3,200 hectares) of inefficient industrial land across its villages and towns. These efforts have laid the groundwork for ten major cross-town industrial clusters in sectors such as new energy, biomedicine, smart home technologies, and new materials. The renewed land has attracted nearly 190 billion yuan (US$26.37 billion) in new investment. Zhongshan’s industrial investment has maintained double-digit growth for 29 consecutive months, doubling in size over the past three years. Village-level collective property values have generally increased more than tenfold, resulting in a dramatic transformation of the urban-rural landscape. Huang highly recognized the initiative as a true development and livelihood project.

Zhongshan’s commitment to water pollution control has also delivered impressive results. Its three-year battle to tackle water pollution earned strong recognition from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), the South China Inspection Bureau of the MEE, the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee and the provincial government. China Environment News ran a front-page feature on Zhongshan’s achievements, hailing the city’s efforts as a high-scoring answer sheet in water management and a model for building beautiful rivers and lakes.

Through the twin drivers of industrial renewal and water governance, Zhongshan has unlocked broader momentum in high-quality development. For 20 consecutive months, investment in technological upgrades has grown at over 15%. The city now ranks first in the Pearl River Delta in the digital transformation rate of its enterprises above designated size and was selected as a national pilot city for the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises. Zhongshan is also promoting the integration of agriculture, culture, and tourism. Under its “1-1-1-3-8” tourism development strategy, the city is shaping a new city brand that combines authentic local charm with the vibrant, high-quality lifestyle of the Greater Bay Area. In 2024, tourist visits to Zhongshan rose by 24.3%, while tourism revenue jumped 28.2%.

Zhongshan has launched a series of targeted campaigns to improve the rural living environment, focusing on issues such as makeshift field huts, enclosed barriers, transport hubs, and under-bridge spaces. The city has completed 23,000 clean-up and renovation tasks under its “three-line” initiative—referring to the relocation and repair of overhead power lines, telecommunication lines, and broadcast television lines—and dismantled or upgraded 38,000 temporary field structures. Following a “one village, one policy; one house, one plan” approach, Zhongshan has renovated nearly 59,000 rural homes, significantly enhancing the overall appearance, harmony, and livability of its villages.

Guo Wenhai, Secretary of the CPC Zhongshan Municipal Committee, said that the city will remain focused on three major goals: building a strong economy, creating beautiful urban and rural areas, and improving social governance. These efforts align with the Guangdong Provincial Committee’s priorities in industrial development, environmental enhancement, public services, institutional reform, and encouraging social participation.

Looking ahead, Zhongshan aims to deliver even more visible, tangible, and impactful outcomes through the high-quality development project.

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ewgcpf_AYQ
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2703885/High_Quality_Development_Project_Logo.jpg

 

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SOURCE City of Zhongshan

LONDON, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Warrants issued as part of three successive FIAT transactions by global wealth management platform FNZ – raising approximately US$1.5 billion in new capital – have now been exercised by two of the institutional investors.

As part of the uncommercial terms of these equity raises, FNZ’s board and management issued US$1.2 billion worth of Redeemable Preference Shares alongside a bundle of 27,625 Warrants. 

Now, CDPQ and Temasek have exercised their Warrants, crystalising the significant dilution for employee shareholders.

These Warrants enabled FNZ’s institutional and private equity investors, who control the board and management, to acquire FNZ Class A shares at US$0.25 per share. This is a staggering discount compared to a potential market price of US$130,000 per share. Based on FNZ’s most recent publicly available enterprise valuation of US$20 billion, the fair market cost of these shares should have been US$3.6 billion, not US$7,000.

Now that CDPQ and Temasek have exercised their Warrants, they have secured 19,361 new Class A shares, representing over 70% of the total Warrants issued.

Employee shareholders point to this deal as a glaring example of “non-arm’s-length transactions”, favouring the institutional shareholders represented by the board at the expense of employee shareholders. 

“This is daylight robbery and it is clear that the likes of CPP, Generation and Motive will now follow suit,” said one senior FNZ employee shareholder, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“Our institutional and PE investors each handed themselves a package worth billions, and in doing so have obliterated the value of the shares held by employee and former employee shareholders, who built the company.”

FNZ’s management and board have significantly diluted employee shareholders. In addition to the Warrants, the Redeemable Preference Shares were structured with extremely high return hurdles, providing a two or three times Multiple of Invested Capital (MOIC) for redemption.

The FNZ board has failed to engage with employee shareholders regarding their concerns. FNZ employee shareholders are now bringing their case to the High Court of New Zealand in what will be one of Asia Pacific’s largest class actions of its kind.

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SOURCE  FNZ Employee Shareholders

• Survey of over 500 executives across the luxury packaging value chain, the study offers a clear message: sustainability is no longer an option—it’s an expectation for customers

• Half of luxury packaging leaders say sustainable solutions will account for over 30% of sales within three years—signaling a major shift in materials, design, and digital engagement

PARIS, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Packaging in the luxury sector is undergoing a quiet revolution—and it’s getting smarter, greener, and more purposeful. A new report from Bain & Company, in collaboration with Fedrigoni Group, the global manufacturer of specialty papers, self-adhesive materials, and RFID (radio-frequency identification tags), reveals that sustainability is no longer a trade-off in the world of high-end packaging—it’s becoming a competitive edge.

In a compelling forecast, the report, Luxury Packaging: Resolving the Tension Between Creativity and Impact, projects that, within the next three years, more than 30% of all luxury packaging sales are expected to use sustainable solutions. The findings, unveiled today at “Explore – Fedrigoni Creative Summit” event, held in Paris, draw on a survey of more than 500 executives across the luxury packaging value chain in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, including designers, suppliers, converters, and leading brands.

“Packaging is evolving from a static container into a dynamic brand touchpoint,” said Claudia D’Arpizio, senior partner and global head of the Fashion and Luxury practice at Bain & Company. “It’s no longer about choosing between beauty and responsibility. Today, you can—and must—deliver both.”

From indulgence to innovation

Luxury has long been defined by sensory experiences—the feel of a hand-crafted box, the gleam of a bespoke bottle. But as environmental concerns and regulations reshape the industry, luxury brands are now reimagining their packaging not just as a container, but as a statement of values.

Marco Nespolo, Fedrigoni Group CEO, said: “Every day, through our close collaboration with brands, designers and converters, we witness the evolution of what luxury truly means: no longer just about aesthetics and exclusivity, but increasingly about responsibility, transparency and positive impact. In this context, packaging becomes a powerful cultural symbol—beauty that reflects values, and innovation that embraces sustainability. As manufacturers of premium papers, and self-adhesive and RFID materials, our role is to enable this transformation by delivering high-performance, creative and sustainable solutions. Being a true partner means co-developing with our clients an ecosystem where every material choice becomes a strategic, sustainable and narrative touchpoint.”

The report emphasizes how leading brands are applying the “four Rs” (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover) with a luxury twist—substituting traditional materials with advanced papers, biodegradable polymers, and even mycelium-based solutions (a sustainable alternative harnessing the root structure of fungi) that feel as exclusive as they are eco-conscious. Slimmer glass bottles and modular packaging designs are also helping brands cut emissions without compromising elegance.

Aesthetic meets ethic

Rather than restraining creativity, sustainability is unlocking a new frontier for luxury storytelling and customer connection. Packaging is now being viewed not as the end of the journey, but the beginning—especially in the digital realm. Think QR codes embedded in boxes that reveal a garment’s origin story, smart labels that verify authenticity, and augmented reality overlays that enhance the unboxing experience.

At the center of this digital evolution is the Digital Product Passport (DPP)—a soon-to-be-standard offering full transparency into a product’s lifecycle.

“For today’s luxury consumer, knowledge is part of the reward,” said D’Arpizio. “They want to know where something came from, how it was made, and what happens to it next. Packaging is now the portal to that story.”

However, integrating sustainability as a core focus requires brands and packaging manufacturers to collaborate more closely in developing innovative and cost-effective alternatives. By engaging early in the process, both parties can align on creative solutions that not only meet environmental goals but also support the overall operating model more efficiently.

Reducing packaging weight and volume seen as top priority for sustainable supply chains

Reducing packaging volume and weight to optimize transport efficiency and minimize trips is viewed as the most significant factor in improving the sustainability of the supply chain, with 43% of respondents to the survey ranking it as their top priority. Promoting reusable packaging to minimize waste and environmental impact, cited by 25%, was the second from top priority. Using lightweight, durable materials to prevent damage during transport ranked third, at 17%, while adopting modular and stackable designs for better space and logistics management was selected by 10%. The integration of smart technologies into packaging for real-time tracking and condition monitoring was considered the least significant, with only 5% prioritizing it.

Regulation as a catalyst, not a constraint

Beyond changing consumer expectations, evolving regulations—such as the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and its Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation—are accelerating the shifts detailed in the report. While regulation remains a central focus in discussions about industry transformation, what stands out prominently from the survey responses is the belief that customers are the true catalysts for change.

The survey found half of respondents predicted that sustainable packaging will make up more than 30% of industry sales within three years. The materials are improving, the digital tools are in place, and the customer appetite is growing.

Forward-thinking luxury brands are not just adapting to these changes; they’re using them to get ahead, the report finds. It suggests that the best-positioned companies are those that invest in material science, redesign supply chains, and work closely with packaging experts to create more meaningful—and more compliant—solutions.

The report concludes that the future of luxury packaging isn’t just lighter and smarter but increasingly is symbolic of the luxury industry’s broader transformation toward transparency, responsibility, and deeper emotional connection.

Media contacts
To arrange an interview or for any questions, please contact:
Orsola Randi (Milan) – Email: orsola.randi@bain.com  
Gary Duncan (London) – Email: gary.duncan@bain.com
Amanda Folsom (New York) – Email: amanda.folsom@bain.com

About Bain & Company
Bain & Company is a global consultancy that helps the world’s most ambitious change makers define the future.

Across 65 cities in 40 countries, we work alongside our clients as one team with a shared ambition to achieve extraordinary results, outperform the competition, and redefine industries. We complement our tailored, integrated expertise with a vibrant ecosystem of digital innovators to deliver better, faster, and more enduring outcomes. Our 10-year commitment to invest more than $1 billion in pro bono services brings our talent, expertise, and insight to organizations tackling today’s urgent challenges in education, racial equity, social justice, economic development, and the environment. We earned a gold rating from EcoVadis, the leading platform for environmental, social, and ethical performance ratings for global supply chains, putting us in the top 2% of all companies. Since our founding in 1973, we have measured our success by the success of our clients, and we proudly maintain the highest level of client advocacy in the industry.  

About Fedrigoni 

Founded in 1888 in Verona, Fedrigoni is today the global leader in specialty papers for luxury packaging and premium labels for wines, the third player in the self-adhesive materials market and RFID inlay production, and the second in art and drawing papers with Fabriano brand. With nearly 6,000 people in 28 countries and 73 plants including production sites, cutting and distribution centers, the Group sells and distributes over 25,000 products in 132 countries.

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SOURCE Bain & Company

For World Environment Day, the company is sharing how material innovation can help the global fashion industry meet its sustainability goals.

TAINAN, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In celebration of World Environment Day, Creative Tech Textile is sharing the success story behind Seawool® — its innovative material transforming discarded oyster shells and recycled plastic into a sustainable textile solution. This pioneering approach shows how reusing natural waste can move fashion toward a more sustainable future.

Fashion’s Push to Become More Sustainable

The global fashion industry has recently faced growing pressure to become more sustainable. According to the World Economic Forum, incorporating recycled materials into clothing could reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 80%. Yet, polyester—plastic-based and derived from fossil fuels—remains the most widely used fiber in textiles, while less than 1% of clothing materials are recycled into new garments, per the Geneva Environment Network. In particular, there is a growing need to reduce short-lifecycle plastic-based fabrics and increase uptake of circular, low-impact material innovations.

Seawool®: The ‘Emerald from the Ocean’

Creative Tech’s proprietary Seawool® material represents a bold leap in sustainable material development. By blending discarded oyster shells from Taiwan with recycled PET plastic bottles, the company has created a textile that is as functional as it is environmentally conscious.

Already adopted by leading US apparel brands, Seawool® generates around TWD$200 million (US$6.1 million) in annual revenue and is quickly gaining global traction. In May, Creative Tech showcased Seawool® at PanTextiles Tokyo, an international trade event by the Taiwan Textile Federation.

“As consumers grow more conscious of their clothing’s environmental impact, we want them to know sustainable material innovations like Seawool® exist and are scalable,” noted Eddie Wang, Founder and CEO of Creative Tech Textile. “Our goal is to replace traditional fibers with more environmentally-friendly alternatives — facilitating true sustainability from the upstream end of the fashion industry supply chain.”

Creative Tech currently produces 2,500 tons of Seawool® annually, repurposing approximately 500 tons of oyster shells.

How Seawool® Compares to Traditional Materials

Seawool® stands out for both its environmental footprint and fabric properties:

• Odor-resistant
• Moisture-wicking
• Offers UV protection

Furthermore, the oyster shell powder inside is a low thermal conductivity material, offering temperature stability.

Seawool® also has cost and environmental advantages:

• 1/10 the cost of down
• 1/20 the cost of high-grade wool
• Lower water usage compared to down and wool
• Performs better for water absorption than polyester
• Improved odor resistance compared with cotton
• Comparable thermal regulation to pricier low-conductivity fabrics, but at 1/6 to 1/10 the cost

A sustainable world inside an oyster shell

While Taiwan produces an estimated 100,000 tons of oyster shells annually, far greater quantities are generated in the US and China, highlighting the abundance of this natural raw material.

Turning oyster shells into functional powder requires a specialized process which Creative Tech has mastered with unique production advantages that support large-scale manufacturing. As demand for eco-conscious materials grows, Creative Tech is well-placed to deliver consistent quality and scale for fashion brands seeking sustainable alternatives.

About Creative Tech Textile

Founded in 2010 and based in Tainan, Taiwan, Creative Tech Textile is a leading innovator in sustainable textiles. Best known for its proprietary, patented Seawool® material—made from discarded oyster shells and recycled PET bottles—the company delivers high-performance fabrics with natural softness, thermal regulation, and odor resistance.  As a Bluesign®-certified manufacturer, Creative Tech helps global apparel brands adopt circular, eco-friendly textiles.

For more information, visit: https://hansglobaltextile.net/en/

 

 

 

 

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SOURCE Creative Tech Textile

Promoting activities to aim for further expansion of allies during Pride Month

TOKYO, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel (Shinjuku, Tokyo; General Manager Katsushi Nishikawa) has announced various projects during Pride Month—a month dedicated to celebrating gender diversity—including participation in an exhibit within TOKYO PRIDE 2025 in order to promote understanding of LGBTQ+ communities and expand the group of “allies,” a collective term used to represent people who act in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Aiming to become a hotel where all customers can be true to their identity during their stay, in line with the diversity of Shinjuku’s Kabukicho

Initiatives of HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel

As a hub for visitors to fully enjoy the city life, HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel of Kabukicho, Shinjuku promotes many D&I (diversity and inclusion) initiatives—as seen in its colorful hotel logo, which represents the diversity and vast array of encounters available in this city. As part of these efforts, we aspire to be a hotel that ensures that all guests—including those of all sexual orientations and identities—can stay comfortably as their true selves. We are also working to lay groundwork for a workplace that allows our diverse associates to perform and excel as their genuine selves, as well as engage in assertive employment of LGBTQ+ talent.

• Our Commitment to Inclusion: Pride Month Actions at HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU

For the entire month of June, our associates will wear badges of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), a network of LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism businesses of which our hotel is registered as a member. We will also feature associates on our official social media account each day to showcase their own actions of solidarity.

• “Rainbow” Menu to be offered at hotel restaurant

At the hotel restaurant, we will offer a special rainbow menu, inspired by the idea of incorporating rainbows into our everyday lives.

Overview of Rainbow Menu

Rainbow with Melty Chocolate Fondant
Puff of Cloud Ice Candy

Service Location: JAM17 DINING
Service Hours: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Price: 1,800 yen (incl. service charge and consumption tax)

Rainbow Donut

Service Location: JAM17 GELATERIA
Service Dates: Sunday, 1 June – Monday, 30 June 2025
Service Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Price: 350 yen (incl. consumption tax)
*Only available while stocks last

Rainbow Cocktail

Service Location: JAM17 BAR
Service Dates: through Monday, 30 June
Service Hours: Happy Hour 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Price: 1,000 yen each (incl. service charge and consumption tax)
Menu: Raspberry Mimosa, Vodka Sunrise, Lemon Drop Martini, Blue Lemonade, Melon Ball, Purple Rain, Pinky Peach

For more details, visit: https://www.hotelgroove.jp/en/jam17/topics/rainbowmenu/

• Booth exhibit at TOKYO PRIDE 2025 Pride Festival

TOKYO PRIDE 2025 is Japan’s largest LGBTQ+ event organized by the NPO corporation Tokyo Rainbow Pride. HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU has been a participant since two years ago, and this year, we will be booth exhibitors within the Pride Festival held at Yoyogi Park on Saturday, 7 June and Sunday, 8 June.

Visitors will be welcomed by our associates at the booth, where they can share posts relating to the TOKYO PRIDE exhibit from our official social media account, and the space will be used as a place to call for action as allies. Visitors can also participate in games that feature prizes such as hotel accommodations, dinner vouchers, and our hotel’s original merchandise.

Pride Festival Exhibit Overview

Dates: Saturday, 7 June and Sunday, 8 June 2025 at 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza and Outdoor Stage
Exhibit Contents: Games featuring prizes like hotel accommodations and dinner vouchers; subject to visitors who share posts from our official social media account
*Prizes available in limited quantity. Please note prizes are only available while supplies last
TOKYO PRIDE 2025 Official Website: https://pride.tokyo

• Lighting up Tokyu Kabukicho Tower with rainbow colors
  

Featuring Japan’s largest scale LGBTQ+ event within the tower’s ZEROTOKYO

As the location of the hotel, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower will be lit up in rainbow colors from Sunday, 1 June to Monday, 30 June 2025 to represent and respect gender diversity.

Overview
Dates: Sunday, 1 June – Monday, 30 June 2025
Light-up Hours: 7:00 pm –

Additionally, the tower’s nightclub ZEROTOKYO—which is one of the largest nightclubs in Japan—will host the LGBTQ+ event AGARTHA.

Overview
Date: Saturday, 7 June 2025  Opens at 11:00 pm
Location: ZEROTOKYO (Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Floors B1-B4)
*Persons under 20 years of age are not permitted to enter

Official website:
https://zerotokyo.jp/event/agartha0607/

Overview of Food & Dining

JAM17 DINING

A dining experience fully infused with groove, where the five senses are all stimulated in an open kitchen space overflowing in a live music type of atmosphere. The stone oven in the center of the kitchen has a gentle, high heat. Our kitchen carefully selects only the freshest ingredients like Miura vegetables, sourcing carefully grown local foods produced in the four seasons of the Kanto region. Please enjoy our menu packed with umami using stone oven cooking.

Hours: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Seating: 132 seats (incl. private room seating up to 15 persons max)

JAM17 BAR

A bar for relaxing after experiencing art and entertainment, amidst the ambiance of Kabukicho, Shinjuku history. Immerse your senses in the excitement designed by the bar’s music, lighting, and rooftop environment for an elevated cocktail experience.

Hours: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am (L.O. 1:00 am)
Seating: 11 seats + standing

JAM17 GELATERIA

Ethically enjoy the vividly colorful, high quality gelato with the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. A recreation space bustling at the entrance to the city social spot, overlooking downtown skyscrapers.

Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Seating: Takeout only

Reservations/Inquiries 81 3 6233 8217

• Photos are for illustrative purposes only
• Menus are subject to change depending on the availability of ingredients
• All prices include service charge (13%) and consumption tax (10%). Takeout products include consumption tax (8%)
• Business hours and details are subject to change
• Information included in this press release is current as of the date of announcement. Please note that it may differ from the latest information

For press-related inquiries concerning this release, please contact
HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel
Contact persons: Chika Ayabe (Public Relations/ Marketing Department)
E-mail: pr.ppbtk@panpacific.com / Tel: 81 3 6233 7693

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SOURCE HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel

DHAKA, Bangladesh, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Anjuman & Aziz Charitable Trust (AACT), founded by Summit Group Chairman Muhammed Aziz Khan and his wife Anjuman Aziz Khan, today announced the expansion of its educational initiatives to support nearly 10,000 disadvantaged children across Bangladesh. This significant scale-up reinforces the Trust’s commitment to providing quality education to vulnerable children, particularly those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

AACT’s expanded program builds on its four-year partnership with UNICEF Bangladesh, established in 2022, which initially focused on helping 3,000 out-of-school children in Dhaka South City Corporation Zones 3, 4, and 5 re-enter education and catch up on lost learning. The Trust’s comprehensive approach now encompasses multiple educational programs through strategic partnerships with leading organizations.

“Every child is the future, if we want a future we must enable the child, that via education. Education is not only children’s right, it’s our survival,” said Muhammed Aziz Khan, Founder and Chairman of Summit Group, and Founder and Trustee of AACT. “Our inspiration to support Dhaka South came from my deep roots in businesses which started in Dhaka’s Chawk Bazar and Urdu Road.”

The expanded initiative includes continued support for Prothom Alo Trust’s Alor Pathshala program, which currently operates seven schools in hard-to-reach areas such as Kurigram, Bhola, Naogaon, Teknaf, Bandarban, and two in Rajshahi. Since 2009, this program has educated more than 1,350 students aged 6-16 in remote regions, with 900 students having passed at least the 5th grade to date.

AACT has also strengthened its partnership with the SEID-Summit Community Therapy School in Kamrangirchar, which provides essential services to 98 differently-abled children from low-income families. Since 2009, Summit Group has supported this school, offering specialized education and income-generating training like embroidery, batik, sewing, and cooking skills.

Additionally, the Trust continues its support for the Jaago Foundation, which provides English-curriculum education to financially disadvantaged children. In 2021, when Jaago faced a funding crisis, Summit Corporation provided a matching fund for three years, enabling the organization to educate 4,500 students across 10 schools in 11 districts.

“I am so delighted to see the good works of UNICEF and our other partners. Every child must be protected, every child must be educated, and they must be happy children to have a future,” Muhammed Aziz Khan has stated regarding the Trust’s educational mission.

The Khans made history in 2022 as the first Bangladeshis to join the UNICEF International Council, a distinguished community of approximately 150 private philanthropists and global influencers who pool their funding and expertise to optimize investments for children worldwide. This expanded educational initiative further demonstrates their growing commitment to creating sustainable educational opportunities for Bangladesh’s most vulnerable children.

About Summit Group

Founded in 1973 by Muhammed Aziz Khan, Summit Group is the largest infrastructure conglomerate in Bangladesh, employing over 6,000 people with investments across energy, ports, logistics, and information technology sectors. Summit Power International, incorporated in Singapore in 2016, is a leading infrastructure developer and operator in South Asia whose strategic partners include JERA, Mitsubishi Corporation, and GE. The group is committed to providing affordable, sustainable energy solutions while supporting corporate social responsibility initiatives in education, healthcare, and community development.

About The Anjuman & Aziz Charitable Trust (AACT)

Founded in 2020 by Muhammed Aziz Khan and his wife Anjuman Aziz Khan, The Anjuman & Aziz Charitable Trust focuses on providing quality education to disadvantaged children across Bangladesh. Through partnerships with UNICEF Bangladesh, Prothom Alo Trust, and other organizations, AACT currently supports educational initiatives for nearly 10,000 vulnerable children, including those in remote rural areas and differently-abled students. The Khans became the first Bangladeshis to join the UNICEF International Council in 2022.

About Muhammed Aziz Khan

Muhammed Aziz Khan, PBM, is the founder and Chairman of Summit Power International Limited and Summit Holdings Ltd. A Singapore citizen of Bangladeshi origin, he has led Summit Group from Bangladesh’s first private sector power producer to a diversified infrastructure conglomerate. In 2024, Khan was appointed Chair of the UNICEF International Council, recognizing his longstanding commitment to education and child welfare. He received the Public Service Medal (COVID-19) and Pingat Bakti Masyarakat from Singapore’s Prime Minister’s Office in 2023 for his outstanding contributions during the pandemic. Mr. Khan holds an MBA from the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), University of Dhaka and serves as Honorary Consul General of Finland to Bangladesh (2016-2025). He is also the Chairman of Siraj Khaleda Trust, Anjuman & Aziz Charitable Trust (AACT), and serves on the Board of Trustees of the Asian University for Women (AUW).

Contact:

Media Contact: Mohsena Hassan
Email: mohsena.hassan@summit-centre.com

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SOURCE Summit Group

SHANGHAI, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Envision Energy, a global leader in green technology, announced a strategic partnership with SUN Terra, Indonesia’s leading renewable energy company, to advance collaboration on energy storage technologies and solutions in key markets including Southeast Asia, India, and Australia. The partnership aims to accelerate the deployment of advanced energy storage solutions, enhance global supply chains, and foster the localization of manufacturing and technological expertise – all in support of the clean energy transition across these regions.

According to the agreement, Envision and SUN Terra will collaborate on key areas including energy storage system procurement and distribution, localized assembly and manufacturing, technology licensing, and solution delivery. Together, both parties aim to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership covering the full value chain to accelerate the deployment and scaling of energy storage solutions in the target markets.

Kane Xu, Senior Vice President and President of International Product Lines at Envision Energy, said: “SUN Terra’s strong local presence and project development capabilities are highly complementary to Envision’s expertise in the energy storage. Together, we will accelerate the growth of energy storage markets across Southeast Asia, India and Australia, delivering sustained momentum for enhancing local energy ecosystems.”

Karina Darmawan, CEO of SUN Terra, added, “As a key part of Sinar Mas’ renewable energy portfolio, SUN Terra is committed to advancing clean energy development in Indonesia, Australia, and India. This strategic collaboration with Envision will not only bring advanced energy storage systems to Indonesia, but also empower the localization of production and technology advancements in the Australian and Indian markets.”

SUN Terra, a subsidiary of Sinar Mas – one of Indonesia’s most influential conglomerates, specializes in end-to-end renewable energy development. The company has successfully delivered large-scale solar projects across Indonesia, Australia, and India, and offers integrated solutions for energy storage systems and battery lifecycle management, actively advancing the energy transition in local markets.

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SOURCE Envision Energy

Partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi, 100 beds were provided to children in need

RIPLEY, Miss., June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ashley, in partnership with Hope to Dream and the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi, brought smiles and sweet dreams to 100 local children through a special bed donation event. The celebration, which took place at the Boys & Girls Club in Ripley, combined summer fun with a life-changing surprise for deserving families.

Recipient children and their families enjoyed an evening filled with summer-themed activities, games and a meal before the exciting bed reveal. The event culminated in an emotional moment when each child discovered they would receive their very own bed, complete with a mattress, frame, bedding and a pillow. Volunteers from Ashley Furniture Industries’ local Mississippi facilities helped create an atmosphere of fun and celebration.

“As one of the largest employers in North Mississippi, we’re deeply committed to making a difference in our community. Through Hope to Dream, we’re not just providing 100 children with beds – we’re investing in the future of families right here where our team members live and work,” said Earnie Gates, Senior Director of Upholstery, Ashley Furniture Industries. “Our partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi allows us to directly impact our neighbors and strengthen the community that has supported Ashley’s growth for many years.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi has been instrumental in connecting Ashley with families in need. Zell Long, CEO, shared, “Quality sleep is fundamental to a child’s development, academic success and overall well-being. This generous donation from Ashley will make a lasting impact on these children and their families.”

Since its inception, Hope to Dream has helped more than 180,000 children receive better sleep through bed donations. The program continues to grow through a portion of proceeds from every mattress purchase at participating Ashley retail locations being donated to Hope to Dream.

For more information about Hope to Dream, visit www.ahopetodream.com.

Video Press Release: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaJMrYnyyWk

Hope to Dream – Hope to Dream believes that every child deserves a good night’s sleep. Founded in 2010 on that guiding principle, the Hope to Dream organization provides beds to children in need across the U.S. and Canada. Every mattress purchased from a participating Ashley retail location helps Hope to Dream fulfill its mission to provide every child with a good night’s sleep. Since inception, more than 180,000 children have received a brand-new bed. Those wishing to nominate a child can visit www.Ahopetodream.com or visit a local Ashley store for more information.   

Ashley is committed to being your trusted partner and style leader for the home. This commitment has made Ashley the largest furniture store brand in North America and one of the world’s best-selling home furnishing brands with more than 1,100 store locations in 70 countries.  

Start designing your dream home today. Visit Ashley online at www.ashley.com. Connect on social media through Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok, and check out our design-focused boards on Pinterest.  

Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC (Ashley) feels that every person deserves more value for their money. Established in 1945, Ashley is the largest manufacturer of home furnishings in the world and strives to be the most innovative and competitive home furnishings company on the planet. From design through fulfillment, Ashley is committed to delivering the world’s best home furnishing values, selection and service, and earning the loyalty and trust of its customers every day. Visit Ashley online at www.ashleyglobal.com and “like” Ashley Furniture Industries on Facebook.   

Boys and Girls Clubs of North Mississippi Since 1996, Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi has been here for our community serving youth 6 to 18 years of age year-round and giving children a safe place to go after school and during summer months. Today, our Clubs are still providing great services and programs and is in a place to do more for North Mississippi than ever before. We have five Clubs serving more than 1,700 youth in Lee, Lafayette, Tippah and Union counties. Boys & Girls Clubs meet the social, physical and educational needs of children through quality programming.

Media Contact:
Betsy Ottman
608.323.1831
EOttman@AshleyFurniture.com 

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SOURCE Ashley HomeStores, LTD.

MADRID, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From May 20 to 23, Fundación Libertad y Desarrollo held the 6th Citizen Convention in Spain—a summit that reaffirmed Ibero-America’s most important mission: to rescue politics and, now more than ever, to defend the principles of freedom as the only path toward building successful nations. Dionisio Gutiérrez served as the host and articulating voice of this forum, which brought together former presidents, intellectuals, academics, and former officials from Western security agencies.

The event was inaugurated on May 20 in Madrid with the “Dinner for Freedom”, an evening that marked the beginning of three days of idea exchange and proposal analysis. In his speech, Gutiérrez warned about the advance of populism and authoritarianism in Latin America and called for restoring trust in politics through integrity. He also evoked the moral and intellectual legacy of Mario Vargas Llosa in upholding the values of freedom and democracy across Ibero-America.

The following day, at the historic Ateneo de Madrid, Gutiérrez took part in the events organized by the Liberty and Democracy Group and the International Foundation for Freedom. There, he highlighted the shared commitment to building a free, institutional, and pluralistic Ibero-America. “We need to promote liberal principles in the face of ideological confusion affecting both the elites and the citizenry,” Gutiérrez told an audience of former presidents, lawmakers, writers, and scholars.

The summit’s central session took place on May 22 at the Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo, where Gutiérrez officially opened the 6th Citizen Convention before an audience of 1,300 attendees and two dozen media outlets.

In his speech in Oviedo, Gutiérrez was emphatic: “Freedom is a wounded word in Latin America. We live under the false freedom of despots, who distort it, manipulate it, and turn it into an instrument of subjugation.” In response to this decline, he announced the creation of the Permanent Academic Forum, a space to debate ideas and turn them into concrete proposals for the region.

To close the 6th Citizen Convention, a special tribute to Ibero-American migration was held at the Archivo de Indianos and Museo de la Emigración in Colombres, Asturias. There, Dionisio Gutiérrez raised the flag of Guatemala as a symbol of the historic bond between both sides of the Atlantic.

The event honored the memory of Ibero-American migrants as builders of identity and freedom—an emotional finale that reaffirmed the Encuentro’s spirit of integration.

For more information, please visit our website or write to contacto@fundacionlibertad.com 

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SOURCE Fundación Libertad y Desarrollo

MINNEAPOLIS, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pivot Bio, one of the world’s leading innovative agtech companies, today announced the appointment of Debra Frimerman to the position of chief legal officer. Frimerman assumes the role following the departure of General Counsel Devang Shah, who is leaving the company to pursue a new opportunity.

Frimerman brings more than two decades of legal acumen and strategic business development experience to the role. She will oversee Pivot Bio’s legal, compliance and governance functions, guiding the company through its continued scale-up in North America and global expansion efforts. This includes the critical role of protecting Pivot Bio’s portfolio of patents. Frimerman will continue serving on the executive leadership team and reporting to Chief Executive Officer Chris Abbott.

“Debra is a trusted leader who understands both the letter of the law and the ambitions of a high-growth, science-driven company,” said Abbott. “Her experience navigating complex transactions, coupled with her track record of delivering strategic partnerships, makes her the ideal chief legal officer for Pivot Bio as we enter our next chapter of growth and innovation. I would also like to recognize Devang for his notable contributions across the company’s legal operations and as a valued adviser to our leadership, board and investors.”

Since joining Pivot Bio, Frimerman has served as chief business development officer, playing a notable role in driving new revenue streams, negotiating high-impact partnerships and positioning the company for long-term growth.

Prior to Pivot Bio, Frimerman served as general counsel, corporate secretary and chief compliance officer at Calyxt, where she led legal, licensing, intellectual property, risk and compliance. While there, Frimerman led the successful series of mergers between Calyxt and Cibus, with the combined company valued at over $650 million, and was instrumental in working with the board and public and investor markets. She also held the role of associate general counsel at Syngenta, where she was head of legal for Syngenta Seeds, its U.S. seeds business, and played a key role in global technology licensing. Frimerman has advised on a multitude of public and private securities offerings collectively raising over $1 billion.

Frimerman began her legal career as a corporate lawyer at Stoel Rives and Lindquist & Vennum. She received her JD from the University of Minnesota, magna cum laude, and earned a BA in economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

About Pivot Bio
Pivot Bio, one of the world’s leading innovative agtech companies, delivers to farmers patented crop nutrition technologies that harness the power of nature to reliably and productively grow the food the world needs in the face of increasing volatility.

Currently available in North America and soon in Brazil, the company’s products are a breakthrough innovation and one of the agriculture industry’s most promising climate solutions. Pivot Bio has been recognized three times by TIME magazine on its annual list of best inventions, by Fast Company on its World Changing Ideas and World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies lists, by CNBC on its Disruptor 50 list of private companies, by Fortune on its Impact 20 list of startups driving social good and by MIT Tech Review as one of 15 climate tech companies to watch.

For more information, visit pivotbio.com

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SOURCE Pivot Bio, Inc