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ACTIVATE BRINGS HIGH TECH GAMING EXPERIENCE TO DALLAS SOUTHLAKE

Activate

Activate, the world’s first live-action gaming facility, is thrilled to announce its second location in Dallas-Fort Worth, set to open this April 12, 2024, in Southlake. Following a successful grand opening last Spring in Plano, the dynamic one-of-a-kind venue will offer Southlake residents a chance to get in on the action and join the game that is sweeping the nation. Southlake Activate is located at 2717 E Southlake Blvd., Suite 180, Southlake, TX 76092. Activate is revolutionizing the gaming industry one location at a time, counting 10 locations across the United States with no signs of slowing down. Attracting over 2.5 million players worldwide, the experience blends cutting-edge technology with action-packed challenges for an adrenaline-fueled social adventure. “We’re thrilled to open our second Activate location in Dallas-Fort Worth. As we expand our immersive experiences across the U.S., Southlake is the perfect place for us to invite new players into the dynamic world of Activate. The experience is like no other and we look forward to entering this fantastic new market,” says Will Gray, Director of Marketing at Activate/Breakout Games. Activate Southlake’s new state-of-the-art gaming facility welcomes all ages and skill levels, encouraging players to explore and create their own unique gaming experience. Here’s what to expect: Guests can sign up in groups of two to five players and challenge each other through progress tracking via Activate’s high-tech electronic RFID wristbands, racking up points, leveling up and earning prizes along the way. Top gaming rooms at Southlake’s new live-action gaming venue include the fast-paced Tik Tok viral Mega Grid with 500+ multi-activated rainbow colored tiles, a technicolored Hoops Court, a digital dodgeball revamp called Strike, and reflex-defying Laser tag. Players at Southlake Activate navigate through a series of games, their scores soaring as they leap, dodge, and strategize through the world’s first live-action gaming experience. In addition to Southlake, Activate can be found in major U.S. markets such as Houston, Plano, Chicago, Atlanta, and New Jersey. Additional Activate locations are set to open in 2024 across the U.S. in markets such as Charlotte, Kansas City, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Detroit. Today, Activate operates over 20 locations across Canada, the U.S. and now the world! PLAN YOUR VISIT Book in advance to save time and ensure a game room is available. Each game lasts 1-3 minutes. The full gaming experience lasts 75 minutes. Complete the safety waiver required for you to play in advance. Wear activewear and flat, closed-toe shoes. Age requirements: Children 10 and under require a paid adult with them at all times in gaming rooms. Children ages 11 to 13 must have an adult present at the facility. Where: 2717 E Southlake Blvd., Suite 180, Southlake, TX 76092 When: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Friday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. | Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cost: Monday through Thursday, $24.99 | Friday through Sunday, $29.99 For a sneak peek into Activate’s action-packed gaming experience, and to keep tabs on the Activate Southlake grand opening, visit www.playactivate.com/southlake. Gift cards are now available for Activate Southlake, here. Use promo code SLPRESALE50 to receive 50% off Activate Southlake gift cards before opening day. Please find imagery assets, here. Founded in 2019, Activate is a state-of-the-art gaming facility with locations across the United States and Canada. Each Activate location offers a variety of unique gaming rooms with over 700 levels for players to compete, earn stars, and track achievements online. Activate combines physical activity and gaming to create an immersive experience as part of a healthy lifestyle. To learn more about Activate, please visit https://playactivate.com. Contact Details Jive PR + Digital Jalila Singerff +1 613-614-6777 jalila@jiveprdigital.com Company Website https://playactivate.com

March 27, 2024 09:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Revenue Management Solutions Reveals the Future of Restaurant Pricing With Launch of AI-Powered Price Studio Solution

Revenue Management Solutions

Revenue Management Solutions (RMS), a global leader in restaurant data analytics, today unveiled Price Studio, a groundbreaking AI-powered dashboard that will evolve strategic restaurant pricing and deliver new levels of profitability for restaurant brands. Price Studio sets a new standard in restaurant pricing strategy by marrying RMS’ unparalleled expertise with the latest AI technology. The easy-to-use solution empowers franchisees and multi-unit brands to build and test the viability of complex pricing scenarios within minutes without negatively affecting customer traffic. “Since 2019, average menu prices have increased as much as 40%, and customer traffic is declining,” said John Oakes, CEO of RMS. “In this environment, making well-informed pricing decisions is crucial. Price Studio incorporates data across the full pricing environment so brands can simulate price scenarios that create real value for customers and their business — all from their desktop.” Powered by Experience and Innovation Drawing on three decades of pricing expertise, RMS engineered Price Studio as part of a comprehensive suite of solutions that uses technology to simplify an increasingly competitive pricing landscape. The platform is the first to incorporate data across internal and external sources, including historical customer behavior, seasonality, RMS’ patented consumer price elasticity scores, competitor pricing insights from over 170,000 restaurants and POS data. Comprehensive Insights for Profitable Decision-Making Price Studio’s AI capabilities deliver price recommendations alongside actionable insights into revenue, traffic and cost implications. Through the easy-to-use dashboard, brands can test and implement pricing adjustments across entire menus and directly export them to their restaurant’s POS system, streamlining a process that traditionally would take months. Users can uncover pricing opportunities across all menu items, compare margin impacts by price tier and category, and identify potential traffic risks and margin challenges. Price Studio ensures that pricing strategies align with marketing initiatives and brand pricing rules to guide users toward profitable pricing strategies at all levels, including individual locations, regions or entire systems. Finding Value in Your Price Strategy In addition to identifying opportunities to adjust pricing on popular items without negatively affecting sales, Price Studio flags items that might be overpriced and could benefit from a reduction, all through its intuitive dashboard. By quickly analyzing the potential outcomes of pricing changes, brands can craft a strategic, targeted and profitable pricing strategy that protects their customer value equation. “Price Studio helps restaurants create profit-driven pricing strategies tailored to their customers' willingness to pay and their perception of value,” said Oakes. “Thanks to the platform, brands can test and learn in less time than ever before while still weighing the many factors that affect the value equation, such as menu mix, item trading relationships, brand integrity and changing customer behavior.” Learn more about Price Studio and how it can revolutionize your restaurant’s pricing strategy at https://www.revenuemanage.com/. About Revenue Management Solutions For 30 years, Revenue Management Solutions (RMS) has partnered with restaurant brands to deliver actionable insights and data-driven solutions to boost sales, streamline costs and maximize profitability. Its AI-powered solutions support 100,000-plus locations worldwide, empowering brands to navigate challenges such as inflation and labor costs with confidence. Unlock the power of your data with RMS by visiting www.revenuemanage.com. Contact Details Tracy Henderson +1 720-989-3530 tracy@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://www.revenuemanage.com

March 27, 2024 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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2024 Easter & Spring Gift Guide

YourUpdateTV

Spring is in bloom, and it’s the perfect time to stock up on engaging toys to fill your kids’ Easter baskets, get them moving, and encourage their creativity. This year, parents are looking for toys that can offer repeat play value and bang for their buck, no matter what their budget may be. Recently, Jennifer Lynch, Toy Trends Specialist with The Toy Association, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss and share the must-have toys for Easter & Spring 2024. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets are the perfect Easter basket fillers to start or add to kids’ Scribble Scrubbie Pets collection. Available now in dogs, cats, fish, dinos and much more. Color and wash your pet again and again with the included washable markers and scrub brush for endless hours of creative play. And for kids who want to GO BIG, Crayola just introduced the new Scribble Scrubbie Jumbo Pets! Hatchimals Alive Make a Splash Playset Experience Hatchimals in a whole new way! With love and care, magically bring two Hatchimals Alive characters to life. Fill the tub, nurture, and bathe each Hatchimals egg one at a time. Remove the pacifier and swirl the egg to reveal a sparkly surprise – the water changes color and fills with sparkles as your friend starts hatching. Discover sweet hippo twins you can’t find anywhere else. After revealing your Hatchimals, each character changes color in cold and hot water. Thomas & Friends Paint Delivery Motorized Train and Track Set Preschoolers can send their good pal Thomas racing through Wayland Station to pick up and deliver paint with this Thomas & Friends™ motorized train and track set from Fisher-Price®. Flip the switch on top of the engine to send Thomas racing along the track. But watch out! As Thomas pulls the Troublesome Truck™ over the bridge, the paint cans will wobble and dump out of the truck bed. Gabby’s Dollhouse Celebration Party Bus Live like Gabby in the new Gabby’s Dollhouse Celebration Party Bus! The DreamWorks series has a brand-new season streaming on Netflix March 25 that will unveil this new Purrfect Party Bus a.k.a. a mobile fun-factory. Just pop open the front wall and raise the driver's cab to enable DJ booth mode, complete with a huge dance floor, sofa, and karaoke stage. This set includes an exclusive Gabby Girl, dressed in her celebration attire; her meow-mazing Gabby cat pal, DJ Catnip; a yummy birthday cake, and a groovy kitty disco ball. Crazy Cart Shuffle The Crazy Cart Shuffle is an extremely fun, kid-powered go-kart that lets kids ages 4 and up drive, drift, and spin with ease. Riders simply shuffle their feet back and forth to gain speed, and then lift the Drift Bar handles to initiate the incredible fun of drifting and spinning like you’re riding on ice. The Crazy Cart Shuffle also features an adjustable length frame with 5 settings which means it grows with your child, allowing them to enjoy it for years to come. For more information, visit thegeniusofplay.org. About Jennifer Lynch As an official spokesperson for The Toy Association, Jennifer chats with toymakers throughout the year to track developments impacting the toy aisles and kids’ entertainment. She is interviewed frequently by national and local consumer and business media on toy trends and related topics. She has appeared on the TODAY Show, Fox & Friends, KTLA-TV, Good Day Philadelphia, WGN Chicago, WNBC New York, Bloomberg Radio, and CNET, among others as well as in print publications including Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, Inc. Magazine, The Spruce, and others. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

March 26, 2024 01:47 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Adin Avertising Technology Announces AI-Based Approach to Digital Media Planning - Adin.Ai

Spark Metro PR

In an era marked by challenges in transparency and efficiency, Adin.Ai disrupts the traditional media planning sector by emerging as a beacon of innovation, transforming the landscape of media planning through its AI-based advertising intelligence platform. With unparalleled precision and strategy, Adin.Ai revolutionizes planning processes across TV and digital platforms. The Visionary Team Behind Adin.Ai's Success At the helm of Adin.Ai's ground-breaking platform is an esteemed team of industry pioneers, led by the renowned entrepreneur Serhat Gurcu, a five-time honoree on the Fortune 40 Under 40 list. Partnering with Gurcu is Prof. Altan Cakır, a luminary in data science and artificial intelligence. Together with other esteemed founding partners, including visionary 2 CTOs, a PhD holder, a rising star female co-founder in media, and another female co-founder who is one of the Fast Company Female Founders for 3 years in a row, Adin.Ai stands poised at the forefront of the industry. Innovative Technology Drives Enhanced Transparency Adin.Ai's integration of AI and blockchain technology ensures an unprecedented level of transactional transparency. Through Adin.trust, each transaction is securely recorded, instilling advertisers with the confidence needed to invest in their media planning strategies. Industry Recognition and Collaborative Ventures Fast Company's recognition of Adin.Ai on both its Most Innovative Companies and Startup 100 lists underscores the company's impact. Additionally, AWS lauds Adin.Ai's proactive adoption of emerging cloud and AI technologies, particularly its utilization of generative AI, a testament to Adin.Ai's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The collaboration between Adin.Ai and AWS engineers has resulted in a unique amalgamation of different AWS modules, harmoniously working together to enhance Adin.Ai's capabilities. With AWS's validation of its technology and an upcoming collaboration with KPMG, Adin.Ai is primed to further its influence on global media transparency. Stellar Financial Performance Foreshadows Success In its Proof of Concept (POC) year, Adin.Ai generated an impressive revenue of 300K USD, setting a robust foundation for its future endeavors. Subsequently, in its first official year, the company achieved an Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) of 2.4M USD, alongside a Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) of 200K USD. Notably, 70% of this revenue was generated in Turkey, a testament to Adin.Ai's resilience amid currency fluctuations. Additionally, the company reported 11 M USD Billings in its first year, indicating strong growth and market demand for its innovative solutions. Explosive Growth in Competitive Markets Adin.Ai's strategic focus on expansion across Europe and the UK has yielded exceptional results, with a staggering 700% growth compared to the previous year. This exponential growth underscores Adin.Ai's strong business model and the burgeoning demand for innovative AI solutions in media planning. Rapid Expansion and Global Ambitions With its remarkable revenue achievements and unprecedented growth rate, Adin.Ai is poised to emerge as the preeminent interface for advertisers worldwide. The company's sights are set on further expansion and solidifying its status as a USA-established company, with Istanbul serving as the operational hub for the Europe, UK, and EMEA region, and London as the headquarters for Europe. This strategic positioning, coupled with global acclaim, sets new benchmarks for excellence in the industry. Adin.Ai is strategically positioned to shape the future of advertising, where AI-based decisions redefine the landscape. Client Success Stories Adin.Ai's transformative impact is evident through the success stories of its clients. A FINTECH company from Spain achieved a remarkable 30% reduction in Cost Per Acquisition, while the largest private bank in Turkey witnessed a substantial 70% increase in Viewability. Additionally, a fashion company from the UK experienced a significant 64% boost in Return on Ad Spend (ROAS), and a gaming company from the Netherlands successfully mitigated display ad fraud by 52%. These results underscore Adin.Ai's commitment to driving tangible outcomes for its clients across diverse industries. Adin.Ai as the AI-Based Digital Advertising Platform for Enterprise Advertisers: Maximize Ad Return up to 5X; Minimize Effort up to 100X. With Adin.Ai, advertisers gain access to a cutting-edge platform that maximizes ad returns up to 5 times while minimizing effort up to 100 times. Our revolutionary AI-driven approach to digital media planning empowers advertisers to achieve unparalleled success in their campaigns. For further insights into Adin.Ai's journey and services, visit www.adin.ai Founders of the Company: Serhat Gürcü: LinkedIn Profile Prof. Altan Çakır: LinkedIn Profile Selin Ergin: LinkedIn Profile Halil Faruk Deniz: LinkedIn Profile Özgün Akın: LinkedIn Profile Seden Gürcü: LinkedIn Profile SOURCE: Adin.Ai Contact Details Adin.ai Seden Gurcu +90 533 476 96 49 Seden@adin.ai Company Website https://adin.ai/

March 26, 2024 11:08 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Sports Research® Partners with YULEX® on First Ever Eco-Friendly Waist Trainer

Sports Research

Sports Research®, known for its boundary-pushing innovations designed to optimize the health and wellness of users worldwide, is thrilled to introduce its newest creation the Sweet Sweat® Eco Waist Trainer. Developed to provide optimal support and comfort while minimizing environmental impact, the breakthrough Sweet Sweat® Eco Waist Trainer is the first natural rubber waist trainer made with YULEX® technology. The Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer represents a significant advancement in the world of fitness and shaping apparel. The product uses YULEX natural rubber foam that is responsibly and sustainably sourced from the bark of the Hevea tree, also known as the rubber tree, providing a deforestation-free, renewable source of natural rubber for up to 23 years. This eco-friendly natural material offers a softer, more flexible inner lining for a comfortable fit throughout every workout without compromising performance. In addition to the product’s eco-friendly materials, the Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer is sold in 100% recyclable packaging. As Sports Research continues to stride forward in breakthrough product developments, the launch of the Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer signifies another milestone in the company’s ongoing mission to empower individuals to lead healthier, more active lifestyles. It also embodies the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. The Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer provides fitness enthusiasts with a solution that no longer forces them to choose between performance and the planet. “Sports Research strives to continually innovate and create products that align with our customer’s values and preferences,” said Jeff Pedersen, CEO at Sports Research. “With the launch of the Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer, we’re harnessing the power of YULEX technology to offer a sustainable solution that empowers individuals to achieve their fitness goals while also contributing to a healthier planet.” The Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer is meticulously crafted to offer more than just a premium stomach wrap. It’s a versatile fitness companion contoured to fit comfortably around the user’s waist during various exercises, from core workouts to cardio and HIIT training. This waist trainer enhances any workout experience by helping increase the temperature around the waistline, allowing users to sweat harder and maximize the benefits of their exercises. Its innovative design ensures optimal support and comfort while promoting proper posture and enhancing core engagement for more effective workouts and improved results. With its sleek and durable construction, the Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer adapts to the body’s movements and repels moisture, providing superior heat insulation to keep customers focused and comfortable throughout their fitness journey. Backed by Sweet Sweat’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, the Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer’s rigorous product testing and attention to detail ensure that every waist trainer meets the highest durability and performance standards, providing users with a reliable fitness accessory they can trust. The Sweet Sweat Eco Waist Trainer is now available for purchase on https://www.sweetsweat.com/eco-trainer for $29.95 and in sizes S-XL. About Sports Research® Since 1980, Sports Research has been a family-owned and operated company founded on a passion for fitness, wellness, and healing. The company’s first product, Sweet Sweat®, quickly gained popularity and paved the way for a wide range of proven, research-backed health and fitness products designed for everybody — inside and out. Sports Research is committed to using only the highest quality ingredients and materials sourced from around the world, many of which have been the center of scientific studies—just as the name implies. The Sports Research team of experts is dedicated to helping people live their best lives by providing innovative and effective health and fitness solutions.To learn more about the company's commitment to quality and its robust product line, visit sportsresearch.com. About YULEX® YULEX® ( www.yulex.com ) was founded on the principle of producing responsible, sustainable, renewable plant-based products that perform at a high level while minimizing environmental impact. YULEX® materials are differentiated in the marketplace because they also share over 50% of their profits from natural rubber sales to smallholders (farmers) in the supply chain, to help improve wages, support rural livelihoods and contribute to economic development of smallholders and their communities. Contact Details Trust Relations Allison Ullo +1 610-905-1817 allison@trustrelations.agency

March 26, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Announcing the 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens, the Brightest 50mm Prime Lens in SIGMA's Lineup

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the new SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens, a remarkably compact, ultra-fast standard prime lens for full-frame mirrorless camera systems. The new SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is the brightest in the SIGMA 50mm prime lens lineup, while delivering extremely high optical performance from its widest aperture. It has achieved the highest level of performance among successive generations of Art lenses. The F1.2 maximum aperture allows photographers to actively take advantage of the large bokeh effect and to shoot handheld with a wide aperture in low-light situations such as indoors and evening scenes. Thanks to the excellent correction of various aberrations such as spherical aberration, sagittal coma flare, and axial chromatic aberration, along with SIGMA's first 13-blade rounded diaphragm, which maintains a circular bokeh effect even when the aperture is stopped down, this lens delivers beautiful imaging characteristics. Dual HLA-driven floating focusing, with one group near the front of the lens and one group near the back, provides stable optical performance from close to distant focus. The design also minimizes focus breathing, with very little change of the angle of view as focal distance changes, which is helpful for video capture. The dual floating HLA autofocus achieves focus smoothly, swiftly and silently for both still and video, and the manual focus ring can be assigned to be linear or non-linear response on compatible L-Mount cameras. Despite the fast aperture, the SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens is has the lightest weight in its class *, and is 30% smaller than the SIGMA 35mm F1.2 DG DN | Art lens. It is very similar in size and weight to the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens, which was achieved in part by streamlining the optical system. * Full-frame mirrorless 50mm F1.2 lenses as of March 2024. As a DG DN Art lens designed specifically for full-frame mirrorless camera systems, the SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is built with dust and splash-resistant structure, water and oil-repellent coating on the front lens element, and durable brass bayonet mount; along with click/de-click and lockable aperture ring, an AFL button, and AF/MF switch. Offered in L-Mount and Sony E-mount versions, the lens will be available on April 18, 2024 at a retail price of $1,399 through authorized retail partners. Learn more at the SIGMA America website: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/50mm-f1-2-dg-dn-a Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras A | Art SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN Unveiling another SIGMA Art line F1.2 lens. Elevating photographic mastery beyond conventional limits. Highest descriptive power to take advantage of F1.2 brightness Lightest weight lens body in its class, suitable for a wide range of applications A wealth of functions for professional use and excellent build quality Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH782-03, FRONT CAP LCF-72mm III, REAR CAP LCR II Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount Launch date: April 18, 2024 * The appearance and specifications of the products are subject to change. * Sony E-mount lenses are developed, manufactured and sold in accordance with the E-mount specifications licensed under a license agreement with Sony Corporation. * L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG. #SIGMA #SIGMA50mmF12Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtPrime #SIGMADGDN The lightest in its class* ― Bright F1.2 maximum aperture and the highest level of descriptive power from SIGMA's Art line. SIGMA's Art line has been offering new possibilities and surprise for expression, and now the SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is here to break the standards. SIGMA's focus with this lens is on the descriptive power that is perfectly usable from the widest aperture, and on portability that allows the high performance to be demonstrated in any field. In terms of image rendition, SIGMA achieved high resolving power from the maximum aperture throughout the entire focus range, while also enriching the beauty of the large bokeh effect at F1.2. In addition, the lens construction and mechanical design have been stripped down to the bare essentials, resulting in a significantly compact and lightweight body. The lens is also equipped with a full range of functions suitable for professional use, including high-precision AF using the latest HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) that reduces volume while maintaining the same thrust. We hope users will enjoy the superb Art F1.2, which will transform everything they capture and even their photographic experience into something extra special. * As an AF 50mm F1.2 interchangeable lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. (As of March 2024 by SIGMA) [Key Features] 1) Highest descriptive power to take advantage of F1.2 brightness The SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art has been designed with an emphasis on high resolution from the maximum aperture to the full focus range and large, beautiful bokeh expression. The contrast between the sharpness of the focus surface and the melting bokeh effect creates a three-dimensional effect thanks to its F1.2 aperture. In addition, the 13-blade diaphragm allows for beautiful bokeh expressions. Focus breathing is also well-suppressed that the F1.2 rendering can be fully utilized in video recording. Brightness of F1.2 maximum aperture and high resolution from minimum to infinity focus The latest optical design achieves high resolving power with each aberration thoroughly suppressed from the maximum aperture. The lens is capable of rendering details without color bleeding in any situation. In addition, the incorporated floating focus is advantageous in improving short-range performance, ensuring a stable, high-level image quality throughout the entire range from the minimum focusing distance to infinity. Rich and beautiful bokeh without color bleeding By correcting spherical aberration, sagittal coma flare, axial chromatic aberration, and other aberrations, the lens delivers natural bokeh images that blur smoothly and without color bleeding from the focal plane. Double-line bokeh is also suppressed, allowing users to take advantage of the mellow bokeh effect in their expression. Rounded diaphragm with 13 blades The lens incorporates SIGMA's first 13-blade diaphragm, which maintains a circular shape even when stopped down from the maximum aperture. The surface accuracy of the aspherical lens has been enhanced to the utmost to enable smooth and beautiful round bokeh expressions. Designed to minimize focus breathing Optimization of the focus group arrangement and aspherical shape significantly suppresses focus breathing. The change in angle of view due to focus shift is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus shift when recording video. Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, are addressed under all conditions of incident light, based on the most advanced simulation technology. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions. L2) Lightest lens body in its class*, suitable for a wide range of applications By uncompromisingly pursuing high optical performance and portability, which are inherently contradictory, the highest level of performance has been condensed into the lightest lens body in its class. The SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art can be used not only in limited situations and applications, but in all kinds of shooting environments. * As an AF 50mm F1.2 interchangeable lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. (As of March 2024 by SIGMA) Dual HLA incorporating a new system A new system was developed that significantly reduces the volume while maintaining the same thrust of the HLA, which is characterized by its high driving accuracy and quietness, and is featured in each of the two focus groups. This technological innovation has realized both high-speed autofocus and a compact lens body. Lens construction and mechanical design stripped down to the absolute minimum Each piece of glass is made as thin as possible while employing glasses with a high refractive index and four aspherical lenses. The high level of production technology at SIGMA's only manufacturing base, the Aizu factory, provides the exacting precision necessary for processing these thin glass elements and making this mass production possible. In addition, the floating focus ensures high performance while shortening the overall length, resulting in a compact lens. In the mechanical design phase, emphasis was placed on weight reduction. Through the systematic elimination of individual components, SIGMA attained the distinction of producing the lightest lens in its class, weighing a mere 745g / 26.3oz.* * These figures are for L-Mount. 3) A wealth of functions for professional use and excellent build quality In addition to various functions that support photography, such as the AFL button* and an aperture ring, the construction of the lens body itself and its high-quality touch and feel are also pursued. The SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art is designed with high functionality and reliability to meet the stringent demands of professionals, as well as excellent build quality for long-lasting, reliable use. * Function available on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used. Proud to be a tool of expression, excellent build quality with SIGMA's Art line specifications By assembling high-precision parts made of lightweight and strong TSC* and other materials, the lens has the high level of rigidity and durability of SIGMA's Art line specifications without sacrificing portability, as well as excellent build quality that allows for long-lasting and reliable use as a photographic tool. * TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) is a type of polycarbonate with a thermal expansion rate similar to that of aluminum. It has a high affinity to metal parts, which contributes to high quality product manufacturing. Various shooting assist functions The lens is equipped with an AFL button which can be assigned to a range of functions via the menu on selected cameras. In addition to the aperture ring, the lens is equipped with an aperture ring lock switch and a click switch to turn the click on and off. Dust and splash resistant structure* and water and oil repellent coating In addition to a dust and splash resistant structure, the front element of the lens features a water and oil repellent coating, allowing users to shoot without concerns even in harsh outdoor environments. * The structure is designed to be dust and splash resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable. Includes a petal-type hood with lock A dedicated petal-shaped hood is supplied. A locking mechanism is provided for secure attachment. [ Additional Features ] Lens construction: 17 elements in 12 groups (4 aspherical elements) Inner focus system Compatible with high-speed autofocus HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction * Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections or auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model. * On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with "ON" or "OFF" in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to "ON" (AUTO). Supports DMF and AF+MF Compatible with AF assist (for Sony E-mount only) Super Multi-Layer Coating Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element) Aperture ring Aperture ring click switch Aperture ring lock switch AFL button * Function available on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used. Focus Mode switch Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only) * Function available on supported cameras only. Dust and Splash Resistant Structure Petal-type hood with lock LH782-03 Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system 13-blade rounded diaphragm High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount Mount Conversion Service available "Made in Aizu, Japan" craftsmanship Learn more about SIGMA's craftsmanship here: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/craftsmanship/ [ Key Specifications ] [ Information ] SIGMA Corporation: https://www.sigma-global.com/ SIGMA Global Network: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/corporate/world-network/ Product Information: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/a024_50_12/ [ About SIGMA Corporation ] Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with dozens of award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. For more information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog. Follow SIGMA America (Photo): Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Follow SIGMA Ameica (Cine): Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Contact Details SIGMA Corporation Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 sigma.pr@sigmaphoto.com SDDPR Stacey Doss stacey@sddpr.com Company Website https://www.sigmaphoto.com/

March 26, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NAVEX 2024 Global Incident Management Benchmark Study Reveals Significant Third-Party Reporting to Companies

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software, has released its 2024 Whistleblowing & Incident Management Benchmark Report. The annual benchmark report offers valuable insights into workplace culture, analyzing trends from 1.86 million global reports spanning thousands of organizations that together employ more than 50 million employees. Amid a record number of tips to the SEC and a burgeoning DOJ whistleblowing program, NAVEX’s comprehensive analysis sheds a critical light on the state of workplace environments worldwide, guiding organizations toward program improvement. "NAVEX remains the gold standard in risk and compliance data analytics, continually innovating our benchmarks to enhance corporate compliance programs and offer business leaders insights into the trending risk areas for their organizations," says NAVEX Chief Risk and Compliance Officer Carrie Penman. "This year's report introduces crucial third-party reporting insights, highlighting an organization’s need to adopt internal and external reporting avenues to bolster integrity, foster accountability and equip the organization to tackle emerging challenges effectively.” This year’s analysis of the data revealed several key themes and notable findings, including: Report volume and case substantiation reach milestones. Internal reporting programs saw a record level of use as measured by NAVEX’s Reports per 100 Employees metric. In addition, the Substantiation Rate metric reached an all-time high, meaning more reports were received and more were found to be true. Report volume, and the substantiation rates of the reports received, are two of the most highly watched metrics in the annual NAVEX publication. To see both reach the highest levels ever is good news. For those with trusted and effective internal reporting programs, this added up to greater visibility into the trends of risk, ethics and culture playing out in their organizations’ operations – real-time intelligence to inform business decision-making. In 2023, organizations received a median 1.57 Reports per 100 Employees across their internal reporting systems, exceeding the previous record of 1.47 set in 2022. More organizations (23%) received five or more Reports per 100 Employees, making this population the largest in the NAVEX data set. And while year-over-year values fluctuated, every size of organization – from the smallest companies to enterprises with over 100,000 employees – has seen report volumes rise comparing 2021 and 2023. At 45%, the overall median share of substantiated or founded reports in 2023 reached an 11-year high. Third parties more likely to report business integrity and financial misconduct issues. In a first for this report, NAVEX analyzed its database by both employees and third-party reporters. Its analysis shows these two groups are distinct across several metrics, highlighting the insight organizations see by promoting their reporting programs internally and externally. Third parties as a group delivered a far greater median share of reports related to Business Integrity matters than employees in 2023 (50% versus 17%). Encompassing topics like conflicts of interest, vendor issues, fraud, global trade and human rights, this category of issues can manifest in various elements of a supply chain. Third-party reporters also showed twice the median share of Accounting, Auditing & Financial Reporting reports as employees in 2023 (10% versus 4.5%). Story emerging on accounting-related reporting – internally and externally. Accounting-related reports -- while lower in overall percentage of reports received internally by organizations at a median of 4.3.% in 2023 -- often receive an outsized share of attention due to potential for regulatory action and the well-publicized bounty program offered by the SEC and its Office of the Whistleblower. The SEC's program is witnessing unprecedented growth in tips and generously rewarding valuable information. Now, the U.S. Department of Justice is launching a similar initiative. Specifically, reports related to Accounting, Auditing, and Financial reporting: Showed the longest time between when an incident was observed and when it was reported to the organization By a large margin, were least likely to be reported anonymously Comprised an outsized share of cases for organizations that receive very few Reports per 100 Employees – meaning while these organizations received well below the benchmark number of reports, they had a much more significant percentage of accounting-related reports Experienced the longest time to investigate and close the case Had among the highest median Substantiation Rates, at 50% Were most likely to cause an employment separation event as a result of a substantiated case Accounted for twice as many of the reports submitted by third parties than those submitted by employees Small increase in report volume shows big payoff in healthy report mix. A diverse array of topics, inquiries, and allegations in internal reporting indicates a robust program. NAVEX’s findings reveal that even minor efforts to promote internal reporting significantly improve the mix of report types received. For instance, in organizations with the lowest report volume, only 8.7% of reports pertain to HR, Diversity, and Workplace Respect. However, in the next tier, this proportion jumps to 36.3%. This trend persists across different report volumes, emphasizing the importance of fostering a reporting culture. A varied mix of report types signifies trust in internal reporting to address a broad spectrum of issues. Even a slight increase from minimal reporting yields a more comprehensive and insightful flow of reports. "With NAVEX's integrated data platform, companies gain unparalleled risk signal data that empowers them to foster healthier workplace cultures, helping them achieve outcomes that matter most,” explains NAVEX Chief Product Officer A.G. Lambert. "Data isn't just numbers; it's the compass guiding organizations toward success and ensuring they stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of risk and compliance." Additional notable findings include: Workplace behaviors and discord were clearly visible in the data as more organizations return to office environments. As is always the case in these reports, workplace behaviors and other human resources related matters are by far the highest percentage of reports received by organizations. Workplace Civility matters continued to increase in prominence in 2023, representing a median of 18% of reports and the highest median reporting rate in 2023. This was followed by Discrimination, at a median 12%, Harassment, at a median 7.1%, then Retaliation at a median of 2.0%. The HR, Diversity and Workplace Respect category overall has seen a multi-year increase in its median share of all reports (from 50% in 2021 to 55% in 2023). These figures underscore the growing importance of fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment. Highlighting the seriousness with which organizations are taking reports received, more substantiated reports (18%) resulted in separation from employment in 2023, up significantly from 14% in 2022 and 12% in 2021. The share of reports resulting in no action – effectively the opposite end of the outcome spectrum – fell from 17% in 2022 to 14% in 2023. Nearly nine out of 10 reports of Imminent Threat to a Person, Animals or Property were substantiated in 2023 highlighting the importance that reporters possess the training, knowledge, tools and trust that promote rapid reporting of dangerous issues. This need is made even greater by a new California workplace violence prevention law expected to take effect this year that includes requirements for reporting, incident management and training around this issue. For more insights on the 2024 Whistleblowing & Incident Management Benchmark Report, join Jane Norberg, Arnold & Porter partner and former chief of the SEC Office of the Whistleblower, Keith Thomas, FedEx corporate integrity & compliance lead counsel, Carrie Penman, NAVEX chief risk & compliance officer, and Anders Olsen, NAVEX senior data scientist, for an informative webinar where they will discuss the results of this year’s analysis in detail. Watch the webinar here. NAVEX is trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help them achieve the business outcomes that matter most. As the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software and services, we deliver solutions through the NAVEX One platform, the industry’s most comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) information system. For more information, visit NAVEX.com and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Contact Details Navex Global scott.levesque@navex.com Company Website https://navex.com

March 26, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Mela Artisans Launches Capital Raise to Fuel Expansion and Empower Global Artisans

Mela Artisans

Mela Artisans, a mission-driven artisanal sourcing platform, announced the official launch of its capital raise campaign, aiming to accelerate growth and further its commitment to empowering artisans across India, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Through this initiative, Mela Artisans invites investors from around the globe to join in its journey toward sustainable impact and market expansion. Founded on the principle of preserving traditional craftsmanship while promoting female empowerment and community development, Mela Artisans has established itself as a leader in the artisanal lifestyle product market. Over the past 13 years, the company has built an industry-leading supply chain and forged strong partnerships with major US retailers, achieving a notable $4 million run rate. As part of its growth strategy, Mela Artisans plans to expand its product lines, enter new markets, and strengthen its e-commerce presence, targeting a $30M run rate by 2026. This capital raise will enable the company to scale its operations, invest in new technologies, and further its mission to provide sustainable income streams for artisan communities. The leadership team, comprising seasoned entrepreneurs and experts in retail, e-commerce, and artisanal product sourcing, is poised to steer Mela Artisans through this next phase of growth. The team's unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit, market expertise, and commitment to social impact makes Mela Artisans a compelling investment opportunity. Investing in Mela Artisans is now more accessible than ever, with opportunities available to individuals and institutional investors alike. This inclusivity aligns with the company's belief in democratizing the impact investment space, allowing more people to contribute to and benefit from the preservation of global artisanal heritage. For more information about Mela Artisans and to learn how to invest, visit https://invest.melaartisans.com/. Mela Artisans is a mission-driven artisanal sourcing platform that designs and sources lifestyle products crafted by artisans in India, Vietnam, and Indonesia using heritage techniques. The company focuses on female empowerment and sustainable community impact, connecting skilled artisans with global markets through an industry-leading supply chain. Mela Artisans is committed to preserving traditional craftsmanship while achieving scalable business growth and social impact. In making an investment decision, investors must rely on their own examination of the issuer and the terms of the offering, including the merits and risks involved. Mela Artisans has filed a Form C with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with its offering, a copy of which may be obtained here: LINK HERE Contact Details Mela Artisans Investor Relations Mela Artisans Investor Relations invest@melaartisans.com Company Website https://invest.melaartisans.com/

March 25, 2024 05:05 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Spring Renewal

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details News Media Group Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

March 25, 2024 01:47 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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