Gigamon Names Twenty Year Industry Veteran to lead Global Partner Sales
SANTA CLARA, Calif., April 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Gigamon, Inc. (“Gigamon”), the company leading the convergence of networking and security operations to help organizations improve their security stance, today announced that Michelle Hodges has joined the company as Vice President of Worldwide Partner Sales. In this role, Hodges will be responsible for evolving the Gigamon Partner Program by deepening relationships with existing value-added resellers and distributors, building the security capabilities of its channel and adding new partner segments to support the company’s next phase of growth. In this role, Hodges will report directly to Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales, Burney Barker.
“We are thrilled to have Michelle join Gigamon to lead the next phase of our partner sales efforts. Her background helping leading technology vendors design, build and manage Partner and Alliances sales teams and programs around the world makes her an ideal fit for Gigamon,” said Burney Barker, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales, Gigamon. “As we work to bring together the historically separate worlds of networking and security operations, having partners who can bridge that divide is imperative. Under her leadership, we have an opportunity to grow our relationships with world-class partners to help customers increase the efficiency and effectiveness of their security stack, whether in cloud, virtual or on-premises environments.”
Hodges joins Gigamon most recently from Riverbed Technologies where she led global channel strategy, programs, communications and enablement, leading to substantial bookings growth through focused partners. Prior to Riverbed, she led global channels and alliances at Apptio, a provider of business management systems for hybrid IT, where her work had significant impact on net new ACV and renewals. Throughout her career, Hodges has held senior channel positions at leading technology companies including time with Microsoft in EMEA and India; transforming the APJ partner ecosystem as VP Channels and Alliances with Business Objects and SAP, and leading SI teams at VMware.
A change agent, driven by impact and growth, Hodges has been recognized by CRN as a Global Channel Chief. She is a member of the Associated Strategic Alliances Professionals, Women in Channels and Cloud Girls organizations, as well as a Board Member of Baptie’s Women in Channel Leadership Forum. She holds a B.A. from Whittier College, an M.A. in International Policy Studies and an M.B.A. in International Management, both from the Monterey Institute of International Studies.
About Gigamon
Gigamon is the company leading the convergence of networking and security operations to help organizations reduce complexity and increase efficiency of their security stack. The company’s GigaSECURE® Security Delivery Platform is a next generation network packet broker that helps customers makes threats more visible – across cloud, hybrid and on-premises environments, deploy resources faster and maximize the performance of their security tools. Global 2000 companies and government agencies rely on Gigamon solutions to stop tool sprawl and save costs. Learn how you can make your infrastructure more resilient, more agile and more secure at www.gigamon.com, on our blog and Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Henry Schein and Internet Brands Form Joint Venture To Deliver Integrated Technology To Enhance Dental Practice Management
MELVILLE, N.Y., April 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC), the world’s largest provider of health care products and services to office-based dental, animal health, and medical practitioners, and Internet Brands, a leading provider of web presence and online marketing software, announced today the creation of a joint venture designed to deliver integrated dental technology to help the profession improve practice management and marketing as well as patient communication.
Henry Schein Practice Solutions is the leading dental practice management software company and will bring to the venture its market-leading suite of practice management systems. Internet Brands is the market leader in web-based software applications used by dental offices to attract and retain patients and manage online reputation.
The joint venture, to be named Henry Schein One, will include the Henry Schein Practice Solutions products and services, such as Dentrix, Dentrix Ascend, Easy Dental, and TechCentral, as well as Henry Schein’s international dental practice management systems, including Software of Excellence, Logiciel Julie, InfoMed, Exan, and LabNet, among others. Henry Schein One also will include the dental businesses of Internet Brands, including web-based solutions such as Demandforce, Sesame Communications, Officite, and DentalPlans.com. The teams dedicated to all these businesses will become part of the joint venture, which will initially employ approximately 1,500 team members and be headquartered in American Fork, Utah.
Henry Schein will have majority ownership of the joint venture and Internet Brands will own a minority interest, with senior management from Henry Schein and Internet Brands serving on the board of Henry Schein One. The combined entity, which will serve markets globally, had pro-forma 2017 sales of approximately $400 million. Henry Schein expects the transaction to be neutral to the balance of its 2018 earnings per share, excluding the impact of one-time transfer taxes of approximately $4.5 million, or $0.03 per share, related to completing the transaction, and to be accretive thereafter. The joint venture expects to realize between $20 million and $30 million in annual synergies by the end of year three. The companies expect to complete the transaction in the second quarter of 2018, subject to certain pre-closing conditions. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“We are very pleased to create this joint venture with Internet Brands because we share the goal of being the best partner to help our dental customers operate successful practices for the ultimate benefit of their patients,” said Stanley M. Bergman, Chairman of the Board and CEO, Henry Schein, Inc. “With this agreement, we combine two dental technology leaders who together will create a powerful new engine to accelerate our customers’ growth. We believe our customers will have the most extensive suite of integrated programs and services, operating on leading practice management systems, to enable dental professionals to be more efficient and to increase their ability to deliver high-quality care to patients.”
Henry Schein One will deliver advanced, cutting-edge technology to address the challenges created by the current lack of technology integration in dental practices. Dental teams today use disparate technology systems that often don’t connect with each another, thereby wasting time for the team and their patients. The mission of Henry Schein One is to raise the level of innovation and deliver a new platform of enhanced dental software and services that work together seamlessly to share data and streamline the digital workflow for each member of the dental team. Having end-to-end management and marketing systems will enable dental teams to be better business managers, clinicians to be more efficient, and patients more loyal to the practice. By helping each member of the dental team work smarter and faster to improve the practice and the entire patient experience, Henry Schein One will position dentists to focus more on delivering quality patient care.
Integrating Henry Schein’s practice management software with Internet Brands’ web-based and mobile digital marketing and communications tools will give dental teams new tools connected to their practice management systems to better communicate with current and prospective patients, minimize appointment cancellations, improve adherence to treatment plans, and develop new sources of revenue.
“By combining Henry Schein’s strength in practice management software with our leading digital marketing applications in this new joint venture, we intend to leverage the considerable resources of both companies to provide our customers and their patients with a better experience,” said Bob Brisco, CEO of Internet Brands. “We are only scratching the surface of what we can do together to improve how dental practices interact with patients in an age of digital communications. This joint venture will harness the power of the leading brands in this market for the benefit of everyone interested in delivering and experiencing better health care. We’re very excited to work with Henry Schein to create a powerful new offering that is unmatched in the industry.”
The leadership of Henry Schein One brings deep knowledge and experience to the task of using modern marketing and communications technologies to enhance the customer experience. The company’s Chief Executive Officer will be James A. Harding, currently the Senior Vice President and CEO of Henry Schein’s Global Practice Solutions Group. Mr. Harding has also served as the Chief Technology Officer of Henry Schein, which he joined in 2000. The remainder of Henry Schein One’s management team will be announced at a later date.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
In accordance with the “Safe Harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we provide the following cautionary remarks regarding important factors that, among others, could cause future results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, expectations and assumptions expressed or implied herein. These statements are identified by the use of such terms as “may,” “could,” “expect,” “intend,” “believe,” “plan,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the joint venture transaction, including future financial and operating results, the joint venture’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. All statements that address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future — including statements relating to anticipated synergies and the expected timetable for completing the proposed transaction — are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made by us are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance and achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, these forward-looking statements could be affected by factors including, without limitation, risks associated with the ability to consummate the transaction and the timing of the closing of the transaction; the ability to obtain requisite approvals; the ability to successfully integrate operations and employees; the ability to realize anticipated benefits and synergies of the transaction; the potential impact of the announcement of the transaction or consummation of the transaction on relationships, including with employees, customers and competitors; the ability to retain key personnel; the ability to achieve performance targets; changes in financial markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates; and those additional risks and factors discussed in reports filed with the SEC by Henry Scheinfrom time to time, including those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in its most recently filed report on Form 10-K. We undertake no duty and have no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein.
Also included within this press release is guidance regarding the neutral impact of the joint venture transaction on our adjusted earnings per share (“EPS”). This guidance is a non-GAAP financial measure because it excludes the impact of transfer taxes that will be paid in accordance with the joint venture. The reconciliation to the impact of the joint venture on our expected GAAP EPS is provided above. Management believes that this non-GAAP financial measure provides investors with useful supplemental information about the expected impact of the joint venture transaction because it excludes one-time payments that are not indicative of the expected impact of the joint venture on our EPS in future periods. This non-GAAP financial measures is presented solely for informational purposes and should not be regarded as a replacement for corresponding GAAP measures.
About Henry Schein, Inc.
Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC) is a health solutions network powered by people and technology. With more than 22,000 Team Schein Members serving more than 1 million customers globally, the Company is the world’s largest provider of Business, Clinical, Technology, and Supply Chain solutions to enhance the efficiency of office-based dental, animal health, and medical practitioners. The Company also serves dental laboratories, government and institutional health care clinics, and other alternate care sites.
A Fortune 500® Company and a member of the S&P 500® and the Nasdaq 100® indexes, Henry Schein’s network of trusted advisors provides health care professionals with the valued solutions they need to improve operational success and clinical outcomes. The Company offers customers exclusive, innovative products and solutions, including practice management software, e-commerce solutions, specialty and surgical products, as well as a broad range of financial services. Henry Schein operates through a centralized and automated distribution network, with a selection of more than 120,000 branded products and Henry Schein private-brand products in stock, as well as more than 180,000 additional products available as special-order items.
Headquartered in Melville, N.Y., Henry Schein has operations or affiliates in 34 countries. The company’s sales reached a record $12.5 billion in 2017, and have grown at a compound annual rate of approximately 15 percent since Henry Scheinbecame a public company in 1995. For more information, visit Henry Schein at www.henryschein.com, Facebook.com/HenrySchein,and @HenrySchein on Twitter.
About Internet Brands
Headquartered in El Segundo, Calif., Internet Brands® is a fully integrated online media and software services organization focused on four high-value vertical categories: Health, Automotive, Legal and Home/Travel. The company’s award-winning consumer websites lead their categories and serve more than 250 million monthly visitors, while a full range of web presence offerings has established deep, long-term relationships with SMB and enterprise clients. Internet Brands’ powerful, proprietary operating platform provides the flexibility and scalability to fuel the company’s continued growth. Internet Brands is a portfolio company of KKR and Temasek. For more information, please visit www.internetbrands.com.
“New York Auto Show Week” Returns to Live with Kelly and Ryan
The New York International Auto Show is making its annual pit stop at top morning talk show “Live with Kelly and Ryan.” This week, a wide variety of top-of-the-line vehicles from the 2018 exhibition are featured on “Live” as “New York Auto Show Week” returns to the program.
Kicking off the week with sports cars, followed by crossovers and SUVs, and the hottest new green cars, “Live” will continue the week on Thursday, April 5 with a look at “rugged yet refined” vehicles, including the world debut of the Range Rover SV Coupe. And the week will wrap up on Friday, April 6 with a spotlight on the most exciting new sedans, including the highly-anticipated 2019 Nissan Altima.
About Live with Kelly and Ryan
“Live with Kelly and Ryan” is distributed in national syndication by Disney | ABC Home Entertainment and TV Distribution. The show is produced by WABC-TV in New York and executive produced by Michael Gelman, Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest. Visit “Live” on the web (KellyandRyan.com), Facebook and Instagram (@LiveKellyandRyan), and Twitter and SnapChat (@LiveKellyRyan).
About the New York Auto Show
The New York International Automobile Show is an awesome combination of new ideas, technological innovation, exceptional concept cars and nearly 1,000 of the latest new cars and trucks. Over one million visitors are expected to visit the Show this year to see what is truly possible from the automotive industry. The New York International Auto Show is owned and produced by the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association and has an economic impact on New York City of some $300 million.
Saudi fiscal reforms likely to bring oil break-even price below $55 per barrel by 2021
Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil exporter, is likely to lower its budget break-even oil price to below $55 per barrel by 2021 as the biggest Arab economy continues to implement economic and fiscal reforms, according to a new report.
After slashing nominal government expenditures by a fifth, cutting subsidies, introducing new taxes and raising non-oil revenues, the kingdom has lowered its break-even oil price to $74.4 per barrel in 2018, down 29 per cent from $105.7 in 2014, Japanese lender MUFG Bank said in a report released on Wednesday. In 2019, break-even oil prices are likely to remain at $69.3 per barrel as the kingdom shifts its strategy of deficit reduction and austerity to focusing on economic stimulus, it noted.
“All in all, a direct consequence of fiscal and economic reform is that Saudi Arabia will be in a stronger position over the medium term …. with greater independence from the oil price,” Ehsan Khoman, the head of research for the Middle East and North Africa said in The Mena Focus Report.
“Our econometric models suggest a fiscal break-even oil price of $54.8 per barrel in 2021 to balance the budget, and assume total revenues at $267.9 billion (36.2 per cent of GDP), against a slightly larger total expenditure at $289.6bn.”
Saudi Arabia, Opec’s top crude producer, is implementing a raft of fiscal and economic reforms under its Vision 2030 plan to cut its dependence on oil revenues and fuel growth. The kingdom plans to sell stakes in state-owned entities including Saudi Aramco, which could raise an estimated $100bn in non-oil revenues for Riyadh in what is billed to be the world’s biggest-ever share sale.
Other measures include developing the country’s industries, bolstering the private sector and luring investments through projects such as $500bn Neom development.
Development of non-oil based sectors, such as tourism and technology, and a significant ramp-up in large-scale infrastructure investments will be essential for Riyadh to meet its ambitions for the non-oil economy. As these sectors grow in importance, the size and magnitude of the non-oil revenue generated from these industries will rise, lowering the break-even price, MUFG noted.
Higher non-oil revenues, predominantly, through privatisation and implementation of VAT, will also help the country to raise its non-oil revenues to $68.3bn, about 10 per cent of the GDP in 2017 to over $100bn by 2020. The Japanese lender estimated that revenue generation through VAT will range between $8bn to $17bn, approximately 3.2 per cent to 6.7 per cent of total government revenues each year.
“From 2020, we view that non-oil revenues are likely to rise noticeably, which will reduce fiscal break-even oil prices markedly,” according to the report which projected break-even oil price to come down to $61.7 per barrel in 2020.
Increasing the share of nuclear, solar and renewables in the energy mix relative to oil and investment in crude production capacity will also help in achieving the objective of bringing down the break-even price, it said.
“The road ahead requires reforming the country to build a sustainable economy that can more comfortably deal with the cyclical nature of commodities by being less dependent on them,” Mr Khoman said.
Boeing, Jet Airways Announce New Order for 75 737 MAX Airplanes
Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Jet Airways today announced a new order for 75 737 MAX airplanes as India’s premier international airline looks to the new and improved 737 jet to power its future growth.
“Our new order for the additional 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will allow us to deliver a differentiated and world class customer experience to our guests,” said “Vinay Dube, Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airway. “This additional order reemphasizes our trust and confidence in Boeing and also reaffirms our commitment to operate extremely modern, reliable and fuel efficient aircraft as part of our fleet. Jet Airways’ partnership with Boeing goes back 25 years ever since the airline was conceived and took to the skies. This order underscores Jet Airways’ commitment to the growth and sustainability of the Indian aviation market”
Jet Airways announced its first order for 75 MAX airplanes in 2015 as part of a strategy to refresh its fleet with the most modern and environmentally progressive airplanes. The newest order adds 75 more MAXs to support the airline’s future expansion. Jet Airways is set to take direct delivery of its first MAX airplane later this year.
“We are honored that Jet Airways has again placed its trust in Boeing with its order for 75 more 737 MAXs,” said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific & India Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “These additional 737 MAX airplanes will help Jet Airways continue to be an industry leader by combining a superior passenger experience with reliable and efficient operations.”
The 737 MAX is a family of airplanes that offer about 130 to 230 seats with the ability to fly up to 3,850 nautical miles (7,130 kilometers). These jets incorporate the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, the Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays and other features to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.
The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,400 orders from 96 customers worldwide to date. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.
About Jet Airways
Jet Airways is India’s premier international airline, which operates flights to 65 destinations within India and overseas. Jet Airways’ robust domestic India network spans the length and breadth of the country covering metro cities, state capitals and emerging destinations. Beyond India, Jet Airways operates flights to key international destinations in South East Asia, South Asia, Middle East, Europe and North America.
The Jet Airways group currently operates a fleet of 120 aircraft, comprising Boeing 777-300 ERs, Next Generation Boeing 737s, Airbus A330-200/300s and ATR 72-500/600s.
Bahrain Says Giant Discovery Holds 80 Billion Barrels Of Oil
Bahrain announced on Wednesday the size of the oil reserves in the giant discovery that it had made, and figures dwarf the proved reserves that the island kingdom in the Persian Gulf had prior to the latest oil find.
The huge discovery in west Bahrain, named Khalij Al-Bahrain Basin, is estimated to hold more than 80 billion barrels of oil, Oil Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa said at a press conference today. The volume of natural gas at the field is estimated to be between 10 trillion and 20 trillion cubic feet, AFP quoted the minister as saying on Wednesday.
Bahrain announced a few days ago the biggest crude oil discovery in its history that will “dwarf” its current reserves, and details on the size of the reserves were expected to be released later this week.
Before the latest oil discovery, Bahrain was estimated to have proved reserves of just 125 million barrels of crude.
International oil companies are currently helping Bahrain to carry out appraisal studies at the new discovery, and to quantify how much of the oil and gas in place can be extracted, Al-Khalifa said.
Oil extraction from the field is not expected to begin for at least five years, according to Yahya al-Ansari, manager of exploration at national oil firm Bahrain Petroleum Company.
Tradesy Acquires Fitz And Announces Tradesy Closet Concierge
Tradesy, the world’s largest peer-to-peer marketplace for women’s designer fashion, has acquired Fitz, an in-home service that pairs customers with highly-trained stylists to organize their closets, edit their wardrobes and provide personalized styling services.
With this acquisition, Tradesy is pleased to announce the launch of Tradesy Closet Concierge, a service that delivers luxury wardrobe management by professional stylists, including organizing, styling, and resale consignment services. The Tradesy Closet Concierge Stylists are a group of highly vetted professionals from design schools, fashion houses, and beyond. Items collected by stylists for resale will be sold on Tradesy.
“The team at Fitz built an experience that absolutely thrills customers – women just fall in love with having a perfectly-organized closet, and form amazing relationships with their stylists,” said Tracy DiNunzio, Founder and CEO of Tradesy. “We’ve combined this top-tier experience with a new Tradesy consignment service that makes selling even easier. It’s everything busy, stylish women need to fully manage their modern wardrobe,” concludes DiNunzio.
Tradesy Closet Concierge offers not only a high-touch, personalized service, it also offers women the opportunity to make the most out of the items they resell. The tiered commission structure is the lowest in the industry, enabling women to make up to twice as much as with other resellers.
The launch of Tradesy Closet Concierge is another step towards Tradesy Inc.’s vision of creating a more sustainable model for fashion commerce. The service makes reselling effortless and fun, thus extending the life cycle of high quality goods, and leaving fewer items in landfills.
Prior to the acquisition, Fitz operated in the New York City, where it rapidly became a must-have service for the city’s most stylish women. The company was the brainchild of serial entrepreneur Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, Co-Founder and CEO of Fitz, and known for her roles as co-founder of Gilt and GLAMSQUAD.
“Tradesy is the ideal partner for Fitz. With Tradesy’s robust technology, infrastructure and large fashion-savvy user base, the service we built will now be positioned to scale dynamically across the country with Tradesy’s millions of customers.” said Alexandra Wilkis Wilson.
Tradesy Closet Concierge is currently serving the New York City area, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, with plans to expand to the Tri-State area and Los Angeles by the end of the year, hitting all major cities in the United Statesin 2019. Its most popular service is the 3-Hour Closet Curation, in which two Closet Concierge Stylists completely re-organize the client’s closet, typically evaluating more than two hundred items. Stylists work directly with the client to decide what to sell, donate, or keep, and make shopping recommendations on the spot, as well as after the appointment via email or text.
ABOUT TRADESY
Tradesy is the world’s largest peer-to-peer marketplace for women’s luxury fashion. The website and app enable sellers to easily earn money for apparel and accessories that they’re no longer wearing, while buyers save up to 90% on designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Chanel. With $80m in funding from investors like Richard Branson and Kleiner Perkins, Tradesy has introduced collaborative commerce to women across America, making luxury fashion more sustainable and accessible to its 6 million members.
Saudi Arabia’s first cinema to open on April 18
Saudi Arabia’s first cinemas should be open by the fourth quarter of 2018, according to the Kuwaiti National Cinema Company (KNCC) and Dubai-based distributor Front Row Filmed Entertainment.
The two companies are already familiar with KSA cinema tastes, with so many Saudi nationals visiting Kuwait and Dubai to watch films in public cinemas. They have said a catalogue of Egyptian cinema will be among the films shown in the Kingdom.
The pair already work in partnership producing, distributing and exhibiting films across the region, and have now secured three locations for 27 screens in Saudi’s biggest cities – Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam – through their Cinescape Cinemas subsidiary.
’12 multiplexes in the next 36-month period’
The pair said in a statement that they are currently in the final stages of negotiations to open this first phase of screens, while the General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) is mapping out the rules and regulations for reopening cinemas. The initial 27 screens will be followed by a major expansion across the Saudi market, assuming conditions under the new system allow it.
Cinescape already operates numerous cineplexes throughout Kuwait, while KNCC’s holding company, Tamdeen Group, operates several of the malls the cinemas are located in.
KNCC’s Hisham Al Ghanim commented: “There is a high influx of Saudi audiences that flock to Kuwait to experience the cinema here because of the films we are able to show and the high standards of the sites themselves, so we have a keen understanding and appreciation of their tastes and habits. We expect to open a total 12 multiplexes in the next 36-month period.”
Egyptian films to be shown
Front Row’s Gianluca Chakra added: “Along with these distribution lines, there is a potential to grow once the lay of the land has settled. Front Row’s exhibition and distribution model can only help enhance the Saudi expansion. Added to that the strong Egyptian catalogue and the burgeoning market of original content development we are closely working on together and you will find that there is substantial potential for growth in the KSA.”
Cinescape is the first regionally based company to secure cinema locations in KSA. The announcement comes hot on the heels of UK-based Vue Cinemas’ recent announcement that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi mall and leisure specialist Abdulmohsin Al Hokair Holding Group, and hopes to build “up to 30” multiplexes over the next three years, though Vue did not reveal when it expected its first doors to actually open. Canada’s IMAX, the US’ AMC and Dubai-based Vox are also known to be seeking opportunities in the kingdom following the reopening cinemas.
Abu Dhabi International Airport named 2017th Best Airport in the Middle East for the second year
The ASQ is the only worldwide program to survey passengers at the airport on their day of travel. The program measures passengers’ views of 34 key performance indicators. 74% of the world’s top 100 busiest airports are part of the ASQ network, which delivers 600,000 individual surveys per year in 42 languages in 84 countries. The program served 343 airports in 2017, where half of the globe’s 7.1 billion travelers passed through.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, Abdul Majeed Al Khoori, said: “We are honored to have received such a high accolade for the second consecutive year. We consider ASQ awards as a key indicator to our performance and success as they are a transparent reflection of what our passengers think of us and our services. I am personally extremely proud of our team, our stakeholders, and all the entities operating at the airport, as I know the challenges they are going through day and night, yet they never fail in exceeding expectations, and delivering a world-class gateway to the Capital of the UAE. I look forward to their continued commitment and drive to excel as we embark on our next phase in our transformation journey.”
As per the ACI announcement, this year’s award saw the winning of 16 airports for the first time, which reflects the increasingly competitive airport industry environment. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) won the first position in the region, and came in number 57 worldwide.
The ASQ Awards ceremony will be held during ACI Customer Excellence Summit in Halifax, Canada between 10th and 13th September 2018.
Insight Vacations Celebrates 40 Years of Innovative Travel and Immersive Experiences with Anniversary Gift to Travelers
RYE, N.Y., April 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Insight Vacations, the award-winning global leader in premium escorted journeys, is thrilled to be celebrating its 40th anniversary this April. While some might argue that 40 is the new 30, Insight couldn’t be happier to look back and remember every unforgettable moment from the past four decades, and all the experiences and innovations that have become a reality.
Over the last 40 years Insight Vacations has perfected the art of guided vacations, and has become the leader in its class through a combination of passion, knowledge and outstanding travel expertise. To celebrate this special milestone, Insight is offering great savings on its most exciting summer trips to Europe and North America. Travelers can save 10% on 40+ Premium Journeys departing between May and July 2018.*
“This significant milestone marks the time to look back on all that we have accomplished,” says Phil Cappelli, president of Insight Vacations. “We’re so proud to have brought immersive travel experiences to our guests, and can’t wait for them to see what we have planned for the next 40 years. Space is extremely limited on this superb Anniversary Celebration of 40+ Premium Journeys and this special offer won’t last, so we encourage travelers to book their dream summer vacation with us now.”
Travelers can choose from a wide selection of guided vacations , including Britain & Ireland, the Western Mediterranean, Central & Eastern Europe, Northern Europe & Russia, USA & Canada and our European Discoveries collection.
Here are 3 unforgettable journeys that are on sale as part of Insight’s 40th Anniversary Celebration:
Spectacular Scandinavia & Its Fjords: This 16-day journey begins in Copenhagen where a Local Expert walks guests through Denmark’s charming capital. They’ll see Hans Christian Andersen’s iconic “Little Mermaid” gazing across the harbor before heading to Copenhagen Cathedral, where a real life royal wedding took place between the Crown Prince of Denmark and Princess Mary. From there, it’s on to Sweden to take in the charms of Stockholm with a Local Expert who takes guests through the cathedral where many Swedish kings were crowned, the courtyard of the Royal Palace, and City Hall, whose “Golden Hall” is covered with 18 million gilded mosaic tiles. Nature lovers will get their fill in Norway, where they’ll pass waterfalls, rivers, ice fields, lakes, and snow-capped peaks around Geirangerfjord, and journey through Hardanger, Europe’s greatest mountain plateau, a true wonder.
Best of Spain & Portugal: This well-paced 16-day journey hits all the must-see attractions of each country, while leaving plenty of time for guests to indulge in local cuisines and cultures. In Lisbon, travelers tour spacious avenues and elegant squares, see the Monument to the Discoveries and ancient Belem Tower, and visit Jeronimo’s Monastery, built during the city’s Age of Discovery. In Madrid, they enjoy an immersive Insight Experience at the Prado Museum, where an expert art historian guides them through the world’s finest collection of paintings from Spain and around the world. Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpieces await travelers in vibrant Barcelona, where guests spend time with a Local Expert learning about the history and architecture of the highly revered Sagrada Família. Later that evening, they enjoy a festive Catalan Celebration dinner with the freshest cuisine and regional wines.
Great Western American Adventure: This magnificent 15-day journey highlights the glorious landscapes and diverse cities of the American west, encompassing dramatic canyons, quaint coastal towns and verdant wine country along the way. In San Francisco guests spend a day seeing the iconic cable cars and visiting Haight-Ashbury, the home of the flower-power movement, before heading to the enchanting Sonoma Valley for a private dinner with local wine. As the trip heads down the California coast, guests stop at the legendary Hearst Castle, then follow the scenic 17-Mile Drive to the beachside town of Monterey. In Los Angeles they’ll take a sightseeing tour that includes Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, then spend time browsing the historic LA Farmers Market. A thrilling ATV tour of Monument Valley with a Navajo guide is on the agenda in Utah, then guests head to Lake Powell for a leisurely cruise through the spectacular Antelope Canyon. The trip culminates with visits to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks before ending in Sin City itself, Las Vegas.
For reservations, contact your favorite travel agent, call Insight Vacations at 1-888-680-1241, or visit www.insightvacations.com
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #INSIGHTVACATIONS and #INSIGHTMOMENTS
* Terms & conditions: Prices are per person, twin share, land only. Single supplements apply. Full payment is required at the time of booking. Offer applies to new bookings made from April 1, 2018 – April 30, 2018 only, is subject to availability and can be withdrawn or amended at any time without notice. †Discounts featured in our brochure are subject to conditions and many can be combined with this promotion (incl. Frequent Traveler and Family/ Group Discount). Please contact Insight or your travel agent for further details. Last Minute Deals are not combinable with Early Payment Discount. Please quote promotional code at time of booking. About Insight Vacations As a global leader in premium escorted travel, Insight Vacations® has been crafting magical journeys for almost 40 years that embody The Art of Traveling in Style™. Through meticulous planning, detailed preparation and boundless passion, Insight’s collection of award-winning itineraries showcases the most outstanding destinations in Europe and North America. Guided by a highly-skilled Travel Director, guests can look forward to traveling in smaller groups, savoring authentic dining and enjoying a range of immersive Insight Experiences. To find out more, visit insightvacations.com About The TreadRight Foundation Created as a joint initiative between The Travel Corporation‘s (TTC) family of brands, The TreadRight Foundation is a not-for-profit that works to help ensure the environment and communities we visit remain vibrant for generations to come. Founded by Brett Tollman, Chief Executive, TTC, to date TreadRight has supported more than 40 sustainable tourism projects worldwide. To learn more about our past and current work at TreadRight, please visit us at TreadRight.org.Insight Vacations is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation (TTC) and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.
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http://www.insightvacations.comCOMPOSE YOUR APPETITE FOR A HARMONIOUS FOUR COURSE SYMPHONY AFTERNOON TEA AT JUMEIRAH CARLTON TOWER
Complete with the dulcet tones of our resident harpist, Jumeirah Carlton Tower’s brand new afternoon tea offering is guaranteed to hit a sweet note
London, 20 March 2018: Jumeirah Carlton Tower has launched its brand new afternoon tea offering this month, which will be served in the serene Chinoiserie dining area on an ongoing basis. Hand crafted by top pastry chef Lyece Major, the Symphony Afternoon Tea draws upon the four movements of a symphonic orchestral experience, presenting a masterpiece of flavour.
The taste performance begins with the Overture; a selection of savoury cones proposed to set the tone of your experience. Savoury Symphonies are next, including a contemporary twist on traditional afternoon tea savouries such as a Brioche bridge roll with Loch Fyne smoked salmon and duck egg mayonnaise. Following this is the sweet serenades, including a mini tiramisu with whipped coffee ganache and a Sicilian pistachio éclair with cranberry compote. As with every great Symphony, the Finale is last, and guests will finish their experience with a delicate coconut and lemongrass sorbet.
Located just off Sloane Street, Jumeirah Carlton Tower offers luxurious accommodation and generous hospitality in the heart of London’s most fashionable shopping district. Symphony Afternoon Tea will be served daily in the Chinoiserie lounge where Jumeirah Carlton Tower’s resident harpist creates the perfect atmosphere for opulence, by serenading guests with melodies from 3pm to 6pm every day. The Symphony Afternoon Tea experience costs £45 per person or £55 including a glass of Champagne Laurent-Perrier and is available until 25 March and from 9 April on an ongoing basis.
For more information on the Symphony Afternoon Tea, visit www.jumeirah.com/chinoiserie. To reserve a table for tea, call +44 (0)20 7858 7185 or email jctdining@jumeirah.com. Follow Jumeirah Carlton Tower on social media @JumeirahCT.
-Ends-
Notes to Editors:
About Jumeirah Carlton Tower:
Jumeirah Carlton Tower, situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, is a landmark hotel acknowledged as one of London’s finest. The hotel is noted for its fine dining, exclusive Peak Health Club & Spa and enviable location off Sloane Street – the capital’s most fashionable shopping area. Jumeirah Carlton Tower offers 216 rooms and suites, individually styled with a calm and contemporary feel, together with dining in the Chinoiserie lounge, The Rib Room and The Club Room.
About Jumeirah Group:
Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE; Bahrain and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia. Jumeirah Group also operates the new upscale-casual brand, Zabeel House by JumeirahTM and runs the luxury serviced residences brand Jumeirah LivingTM with properties in London and Dubai; the wellness brand TaliseTM; Jumeirah Restaurant Group DubaiTM; Wild Wadi WaterparkTM; The Emirates Academy of Hospitality ManagementTM; Jumeirah SiriusTM, its global loyalty programme; and isme by Jumeirah™ an app based rewards programme in the UAE. Future openings include luxury hotels in the UAE, Indonesia, China, Oman, Jordan, Malaysia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. www.jumeirah.com
FIRST ICE RINK IN MALDIVES OPENED BY RUSSIAN OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST
Ice Ice Maybe… at Jumeirah Vittaveli opened with surprise celebrity performance
by Evgeni Plushenko
Maldives, 22 March 2018: Jumeirah Vittaveli inaugurated the first ice rink in the Maldives with a celebrity performance by Russian Evgeni Plushenko, a former Olympic Gold medallist figure skater.
The eco-friendly ice skating rink Ice Ice Maybe… is a world first to the Maldives and the 87 square meters offers plenty of space for pirouettes and ice hockey games.
Amit Majumder, General Manager, Jumeirah Vittaveli, said: “I congratulate the entire team for introducing a world-first to the Maldives. This eco-friendly ice skating rink on a tropical island is a true expression of our aim to ‘wow’ our guests, not just with genuine service from the heart but with innovative additions to our resort that provide extraordinary experiences to the adventurous traveller.
“An immense thank you also goes to the inimitable Evgeni Plushenko – we are honoured that such a world class skater and enthralling performer as Evgeni was the first to leave his mark on our rink. I look forward to seeing the many happy guests when they try out our beachside ice rink, while looking out over the ocean.”
The grand finale to the launch event was Evgeni Plushenko’s performance, he was later joined by his wife Yana Rudkovskaya and his 5-year-old son Aleksandr Plushenko, an ice skating wonderkid.
The country’s first ice skating rink Ice Ice Maybe… at Jumeirah Vittaveli has been manufactured using Glice®, a novel material from Switzerland that allows for eco-friendly ice rinks, eliminating the need to keep the ice rink cold. This enables guests to experience a world-first at Jumeirah Vittaveli when they go for a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, followed by a quick stroll across the beach to put on their ice skates and glide along the picturesque backdrop of a tropical winter wonderland.
The rink will be open from 12 – 6pm daily and access costs at USD 75 which includes 2 hours of ice skating, rental of equipment, a delicious ice cream sundae to enjoy post ice skating and a host of giveaways and souvenirs. All following entries will be charged at USD 50 and include gear and an ice cream sundae. The rink will be open for all ages, children below 8 years of age will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Jumeirah Vittaveli offers romantic escapes as well as a variety of land- and water-based activities, including a PADI Dive base, water sports centre, six restaurants and bars, and two lounges; an underground tasting room and a wine library will be opened soon. With its focus on cultural connection and organic experiences in a luxurious setting, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers guests a true Maldivian island experience.
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Notes to Editors:
For high resolution photos of Jumeirah Vittaveli, please click here
About Jumeirah Vittaveli:
A 20-minute boat ride from Malé International Airport brings you to Jumeirah Vittaveli. Whether for an intimate escape or an indulgent family retreat, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers unmatched diversity, subtle luxury and personalised exploration. Impeccable choice and seamless service shape the character of this resort paradise, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to inspire journeys of discovery and enjoyment. Whether beach-side or over-water, all villas feature stunning interiors with private pools and access to the sandy shores or glistening waters. The sprawling 5-bedroom Royal Residence comes with private beach, spa, gym, two swimming pools, and its own dedicated restaurant. An inspirational Spa, a well-equipped overwater gymnasium, a children’s club and 5 star PADI dive centre mean guests are always able to try something new. The country’s first ice rink invites guests for a world first – ice skating on an eco-friendly synthetic ice rink, overlooking the powder soft beaches and crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
About Jumeirah Group:
Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE; Bahrain and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia. Jumeirah Group also operates the new upscale-casual brand, Zabeel House by JumeirahTM and runs the luxury serviced residences brand Jumeirah LivingTM with properties in London and Dubai; the wellness brand TaliseTM; Jumeirah Restaurant Group DubaiTM; Wild Wadi WaterparkTM; The Emirates Academy of Hospitality ManagementTM; Jumeirah SiriusTM, its global loyalty programme; and isme by Jumeirah™ an app based rewards programme in the UAE. Future openings include luxury hotels in the UAE, Indonesia, China, Oman, Jordan, Malaysia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
www.jumeirah.com
For further information please contact:
Tina Dotzauer
Director of Marketing Communications
Telephone: +960 664 2020
E-mail: tina.dotzauer@jumeirah.com
Autograph Collection Hotels Debuts In Georgia With The Opening Of Paragraph Resort & Spa Shekvetili
Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s distinctive collection of passionately independent hotels has announced its debut in Georgia with the opening of Paragraph Resort & Spa in the Black Sea coastal resort of Shekvetili. The hotel joins the diverse and dynamic portfolio of Autograph Collection Hotels around the world – all independent, one-of-a-kind hotels that champion values of vision, design and craft.
“We are thrilled to welcome Paragraph Resort & Spa to the Autograph Collection Hotels portfolio,” said John Licence, VP Premium & Select Brands Europe at Marriott International. “With its spectacular design and standout guest experiences, this hotel certainly delivers on the brand’s commitment to offering exactly like nothing elsemoments at one-of-a-kind hotels around the world.”
Nestled between the magnetic sand beaches of the Black Sea coast and an ancient pine forest, Paragraph Resort & Spa offers a unique array of features and exceptional meeting facilities, perfect for both leisure and corporate retreats. With a wealth of child-friendly facilities including kids club, cinema, zip line, bicycle trails and indoor aqua park, the hotel is also perfect for a family getaway.
An outstanding feature of Paragraph Resort & Spa is its expansive public spaces, which range from the lobby’s walkthrough aquarium full of exotic marine life, to a majestic winter garden with indoor waterfall and aqua park. The jewel in the crown, however, is the 115m-long filtered seawater pool built into a panoramic deck leading out over the Black Sea.
“We are excited to debut our first Autograph Collection Hotel in Georgia with the beautiful Paragraph Resort & Spa Shekvetili,” said Jennifer Connell, Vice President, Brand Marketing & Management, Autograph Collection Hotels. “With two additional hotels slated to open in Georgia by 2020, we look forward to expanding our footprint in the country, and continuing to grow our collection of more than 135 distinctive hotels around the world.”
The 220 spacious bedrooms and suites feature distinguished design and luxurious furnishings, including ergonomically designed tubs and Roberto Cavalli amenities in the bathrooms. All rooms offer private balconies, many with spectacular views of the Black Sea coast.
Guests are catered to at any time during their stay and will enjoy the hotel’s Lobby Bar, Winter Garden and all-day dining restaurant serving everything from breakfast to afternoon snacks and local delicacies for dinner. Sky Bar, located on the top floor of the hotel, offers a tailored menu of exotic drinks and expertly mixed cocktails to be enjoyed whilst soaking up the stunning 360⁰ views over both the surrounding coast and mountains.
Paragraph Resort & Spa is perfectly equipped to host corporate events with a total of six rooms offering over 8500sqft of event space. The largest of these is the 5000sqft ballroom featuring an aquarium wall and winter garden view. Additional facilities include a 24-hour fitness centre and spa offering a wide range of treatments for both adults and children, plus steam room and plunge pool.
About Autograph Collection Hotels
Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., celebrates individuality by curating one-of-a-kind travel experiences at 135 lifestyle hotels in nearly 30 countries and territories, among the world’s most desirable destinations. Exactly like nothing else, Autograph Collection properties are hand selected for their rich character and uncommon details. A personal realization of an individual founder’s vision, these hotels are defined by unique design, differentiated guest experiences and their meaningful role in locality. Autograph Collection Hotels is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information, please visit www.autographhotels.com, and explore our social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to learn more about championing the independent spirit that is #ExactlyLikeNothingElse.
About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 6,500 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 127 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitterand Instagram.
Note on Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of federal securities laws, including the number of lodging properties the company may add in future years and similar statements concerning possible future events or expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in market conditions; changes in global and regional economies; supply and demand changes for hotel rooms; competitive conditions in the lodging industry; relationships with clients and property owners; the availability of capital to finance hotel growth and refurbishment; and other risk factors that the company identifies in its most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q or annual report on Form 10-K; any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply here. We make these statements as of the date of this press release, and we assume no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Etihad Airways inaugurates Eco Residence for cabin crew in Masdar city Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways has officially opened its Etihad Eco Residence, Abu Dhabi’s first purpose-built, sustainable Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum rated cabin crew accommodation. The project is the result of a unique partnership between the UAE’s national airline and the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, Masdar.
The Etihad Eco Residence was inaugurated in the presence of Khaled Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer, Aerospace, Renewables & Information Communications Technology (ICT) for Mubadala, by Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group. Also present was Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer for Masdar, alongside senior executives from Etihad Airways and Masdar.
The complex, which comprises 500 apartments in 11 buildings at the pioneering Masdar City development, was recently awarded ‘Sustainable Design of the Year’ at the 2017 Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) MENA Green Awards, and ‘Sustainable Construction Project of the Year’ at the Big Projects Middle East Awards 2017. The residence offers comfortable, high-specification one and two-bedroom apartments which include furniture and white goods provided by Etihad Airways.
Mana Mohamed Saeed Al Mulla, Etihad Aviation Group Chief Group Support Services Officer, said: “The opening of the landmark Etihad Eco Residence underscores not only the importance we place on providing superior housing to our valued cabin crew, but also our responsibility, as part of the greater Abu Dhabi vision, to play a part in transforming the capital into a global leader in smart urban planning, clean energy and sustainability.”
The residence reflects Masdar’s commitment to the three pillars of social, economic and environmental sustainability and is designed to promote biodiversity while minimising the use of ‘high embodied energy’ materials. The use of local suppliers has also helped to reduce transport-related carbon emissions. At least 20 per cent of materials were either sourced or manufactured within 800 kilometres of the project.
Yousef Baselaib, Executive Director of Sustainable Real Estate at Masdar, said: “This new development demonstrates how early project involvement by key stakeholders, including the end-user, developer, design team and contractor, results in a highly desirable end-product. We hope Etihad Airways’ cabin crew enjoy the amenities at their new building, as well as those at Masdar City.”
Etihad Airways employs over 5,800 Abu Dhabi-based cabin crew. The opening of the Etihad Eco Residence reflects the airline’s crew accommodation strategy of providing superior, environmentally-friendly homes with recreational, dining, health and lifestyle facilities, conveniently located close to the capital’s international airport for ease of transport and operational efficiency.
Mark Scoble, Etihad Airways Head of In-flight Performance and Operations, added: “Our brief to the architects and designers of the Etihad Eco Residence was to create a development that is in line with Etihad’s environmental principles as well as a safe, secure and commercially viable residential precinct that embraces our acclaimed cabin crew community, who hail from over 120 countries around the world.
“This new residence offers high quality homes and a desirable cosmopolitan lifestyle in a sustainable urban environment. We are proud that this has now been made a reality for our flying family here in Abu Dhabi.”
An enhanced microclimate has been created around each of the buildings using sustainable landscaping methods and massing the shape and size of the buildings, which captures the breeze for natural ventilation while offering protection from wind and dust. These features complement the urban environment and contribute to overall energy saving.
Each of the Etihad Eco Residence’s buildings has been designed using low environmental impact construction materials, which aid the reduction of strong sunlight yet maximise available natural daylight.
Solar hot water systems provide 76 per cent of the community’s water demand and the buildings’ design encourages greater water efficiency and the reduction of potable water usage, as well as smart waste management.
Masdar is collaborating with local stakeholders to pioneer a ‘greenprint’ for sustainable urban development at Masdar City using a holistic approach focused on integrating sustainable transportation initiatives, optimising waste management, reducing energy use, water consumption and carbon emissions, and accommodating rapid urbanisation.
In January 2018, autonomous vehicle producer NAVYA was awarded the contract to develop phase two of Masdar City’s personal rapid transit (PRT) system, which will be expanded along a new one-kilometre route linking Masdar Institute with the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and Majid Al Futtaim’s My City Centre Mall. Emirates makes history with one-off A380 touchdown in Beirut
Arrival of A380 confirms readiness of airport to accommodate A380 operations
Dubai, UAE – 29 March 2018: The Emirates A380 touched down in Beirut today for a historic one-off service to Rafic Al Hariri International Airport (BEY), contributing to an aviation milestone for Lebanon and its hub airport. The landing demonstrated the airport’s readiness to accommodate the A380, the world’s largest commercial passenger jet.
The special A380 flight was operated by Captain Robert Nicholls from the UK and First Officer Hasib Bu Alwan, a Lebanese national. The 517 passengers travelling on EK 957, many of whom had made their bookings to be on this unique flight, were joined by a top-level delegation led by the airline, including; Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand; H.E. Hamad Saeed Sultan Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Lebanon; H.E. Elias Bou Saab, Advisor to the Lebanese President for International Cooperation; Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Skywards; Ali Jaber, Managing Editor – MBC Media; Marwan Rahbani, Owner – Rahbani Productions; Raymond G Khouzami, Chief Executive Officer – Al Thuriah Building Contractors Ltd; Joseph Nassib Ghessoub, Chief Executive Officer – CMS and Jihad Hitt, Chief Executive Officer – GETAC Group. Upon landing at 1030hrs at Rafic Al Hariri International Airport the aircraft was met with a ceremonial water cannon salute, and the Emirates delegation was welcomed by H.E. Avedis Guidanian, Minister of Tourism attending on behalf of H.E. President of the Republic of Lebanon; Deputy Ali Bazzi – Representing H.E. President of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri; H.E. Youssef Fenianos, Lebanese Minister of Transport; H.E. Raed Koury, Minister of Economy & Trade; H.E. Walid Al Boukhari – Chargee D’affaire of the Saudi Arabia Embassy to Lebanon, government officials and Rafic Hariri International Airport executives. After a welcoming ceremony, government officials, VIPs, media and members of the travel industry were given a guided tour of the A380 by Emirates cabin crew, several of whom were from Lebanon. Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing & Brand said: “The Emirates A380 is fundamental to our overall strategy, and bringing this popular aircraft to Beirut represents a significant milestone in our operations to Lebanon, a country we have been serving for over 27 years and we remain wholly committed to stimulating further growth within the market. We thank the Lebanese government, the Ministry of Transport and the government authorities who have worked hard to make today’s one-off service a tremendous success.” This year marks the Emirates A380’s 10th anniversary, and the iconic aircraft has transformed flying for over 96 million passengers on over 106,000 flights. The Emirates A380 flying to Beirut operated in a three-class configuration, with 429 generously pitched seats in Economy Class on the lower deck, 76 flat-bed seats in Business Class and 14 First Class Private Suites on the upper deck. Emirates’ A380 is renowned for its First Class Private Suites, Shower Spas and Onboard Lounge for First Class and Business Class passengers, offering a wide range of drinks and canapés, as well as space to socialise or simply relax. Passengers travelling on the main deck in Economy Class enjoyed stretching out in seats with a pitch of up to 33 inches. Passengers in all classes enjoyed the 13 time award-winning ice in-flight entertainment system with a choice of up to 3,500 channels on-demand. As the largest operator of the double-decker aircraft, Emirates’ fleet of 101 A380s now fly to 48 global destinations. The Emirates A380 service today operated as EK 957 and EK 958, departing Dubai at 0725hrs and arriving in Beirut at 1035hrs. The flight departed Beirut at 1415hrs, arriving in Dubai at 1905hrs.Built for the Way We Communicate Today: Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+
The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ fuel new discoveries with Super Slow-mo video, best-in-class low light camera and AR Emoji for a more personalized way to express yourself.
Samsung Electronics introduces the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+, the smartphones that reimagine the way people communicate, share and experience the world. Made for an age in which consumers increasingly communicate and express themselves more with images, videos and emojis, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ drive innovation with Samsung’s advanced camera. Redesigned with a new Dual Aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalized AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ ensure users do not miss a moment and make their everyday epic.
The Galaxy S9 and S9+ deliver an enhanced entertainment experience with powerful stereo speakers tuned by AKG, immersive audio with Dolby Atmos® and a refined edge-to-edge Infinity Display 1– a key staple in Samsung’s design heritage. In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ will come with the new SmartThings app, which unites Samsung’s existing IoT services into one single, smart experience.
“The way we use our smartphones has changed as communication and self-expression has evolved,” said DJ Koh, president and Head of IT & Mobile Communications Division, Samsung Electronics. “With the Galaxy S9 and S9+, we have reimagined the smartphone camera. Not only do the Galaxy S9 and S9+ enable consumers to shoot great photos and videos anywhere, it’s a smartphone that’s designed to help them connect to others and express themselves in a way that’s unique and personal to them.”
Camera Reimagined
Today’s cameras are for more than taking pictures – they’re for connecting and communicating. Consumers want a smartphone camera with state-of-the-art technology, so they can express themselves with high-quality images and tools to tell their own, unique story. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ cameras are built with these consumers in mind, with a Super Speed Dual Pixel sensor with dedicated processing power and memory to take amazing shots with high photo quality. The Galaxy S9 and S9+’s camera features include:- Super Slow-mo: Make every day moments epic with dynamic, slow-motion video that captures 960 frames per second. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also offer automatic Motion Detection, an intelligent feature that detects movement in the frame and automatically begins to record – all users have to do is set up the shot. After capturing the Super Slow-mo video, users can select background music from 35 different options or add a tune from their favorite playlist. Users can also easily create, edit and share GIF files with a simple tap in three playful styles of looping to watch the action over and over again.
- Low Light Camera: Good lighting is the secret to any great photo. But often, photos are taken in less-than-ideal lighting conditions and most smartphone cameras have a fixed aperture that can’t adjust to low or bright lighting environments resulting in grainy or washed out pictures. Similar to the way the iris of a human eye expands and contracts, Samsung’s Dual Aperture2(F1.5 / F2.4) automatically lets in more light when it’s dark and less light when it’s too bright, taking photos that are crisp and clear.
- AR Emoji: Samsung lets users create an emoji that looks, sounds and acts like them. AR Emoji uses a data-based machine learning algorithm, which analyzes a 2D image of the user and maps out more than 100 facial features to create a 3D model that reflects and imitates expressions, like winks and nods, for true personalization. AR Emoji shares users’ real-life emotions not only in video but also with a range of stickers and uses a standard AGIF file format so users can share their emojis across most third-party messaging platforms.
- Bixby: Samsung’s intelligence platform, integrated into the camera, uses augmented reality and deep learning technologies to provide helpful information about a user’s surroundings.3 With real-time object detection and recognition, Bixby instantly generates information directly on top of the image that the camera is pointing at. Users can translate foreign languages and currency in real time with Live Translation, learn about their surroundings, purchase products seen in the real world and track calories throughout the day.4
Entertainment Reimagined
Smartphones are often our go-to choice for entertainment, which is why Samsung created a device that offers premium sound experiences with stereo speakers tuned by AKG. Whether users are watching their favorite movie or streaming their favorite artist’s latest album, sounds are clear, crisp and rich in quality. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also support Dolby Atmos, giving the effect of 360-degree sound. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ audio experience is complemented by Samsung’s revolutionary Infinity Display. First introduced on the Galaxy S8, the bold, bright Super AMOLED Infinity Display blends right into the phone with virtually no distracting notches. With adaptive contrast enhancement, users can use their device even in direct sunlight.A Device that Fits with the Connected Lifestyle
As the first smartphone to support the new SmartThings app, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ are the central hub to manage every facet of the connected lifestyle at home, at the office or on the go. The SmartThings app will be introduced with the Galaxy S9 and S9+ and will connect to other Samsung and non-Samsung devices. For those constantly on the move, the next-generation Samsung DeX empowers a mobile lifestyle by bringing a large, full-screen experience to the mobile handset. With the DeX Pad, a new docking system, users can easily connect the Galaxy S9 and S9+ to a larger monitor, keyboard and mouse to expand the mobile experience with enhanced document editing or even full-screen gaming.5Users can also transform the Galaxy S9 and S9+ into a Touch Pad with the DeX Pad.6The Best Comes Standard with the Galaxy Foundation
Samsung sets the gold standard for smartphones with IP687 water and dust resistance and wireless charging and goes a step beyond with the Galaxy S9 and S9+. The devices now support expandable memory of up to 400GB with a Micro SD Card and are equipped with the latest premium application processors offering powerful performance and sophisticated image processing. In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ give users the peace of mind knowing that their phone is protected by Knox 3.1, Samsung’s latest defense-grade security platform. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ support three different biometric authentication options – iris, fingerprint, and facial recognition – so users can choose the way they want to protect their device and applications. The devices feature Intelligent Scan, a new verification that intelligently uses the collective strength of iris scanning and facial recognition technology to quickly and conveniently unlock a user’s phone in various situations. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also introduce Dedicated Fingerprint, giving users the option to use a different fingerprint to access Secure Folder than the one used to unlock the phone. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ take health to the next level with an improved optical sensor built directly into the device, providing richer, more accurate information on users’ health status. This sensor allows the Galaxy S9 and S9+ to keep track of users’ Heart Load Factor, a new measurement of the real-time demand placed on the heart.8 The Galaxy S9 and S9+ will be available starting in March 16, 2018 in select markets and will be offered in Midnight Black, Titanium Gray, Coral Blue and a new hue, Lilac Purple. For more information about the Galaxy S9, visit news.samsung.com/galaxy, www.samsung.com/galaxy or http://www.samsungmobilepress.com.Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ Product Specifications
| Galaxy S9 | Galaxy S9+ | ||
| OS | Android 8 (Oreo) | ||
| Display | 5.8-inch Quad HD + Curved Super AMOLED, 18.5:99,10 (570ppi) | 6.2-inch Quad HD + Curved Super AMOLED, 18.5:99,10 (529ppi) | |
| Body | 147.7mm x 68.7mm x 8.5mm, 163g, IP687 | 158.1mm x 73.8mm x 8.5mm, 189g, IP687 | |
| Camera | Rear: Super Speed Dual Pixel 12MP AF sensor with OIS (F1.5/F2.4) Front: 8MP AF (F1.7) | Rear: Dual Camera with Dual OIS – Wide-angle: Super Speed Dual Pixel 12MP AF sensor (F1.5/F2.4) – Telephoto: 12MP AF sensor (F2.4) Front: 8MP AF (F1.7) | |
| AP | 10nm 64-bit Octa-core processor (Max. 2.7 GHz + 1.7 GHz)11 10nm 64-bit Octa-core processor (Max. 2.8 GHz + 1.7 GHz) | ||
| Memory | 4GB RAM 64GB/128GB/256GB12 + Micro SD Slot (upto 400 GB) | 6GB RAM 64GB/128GB/256GB12 + Micro SD Slot (upto 400GB) | |
| SIM Card | Single SIM: Nano SIM Dual SIM (Hybrid SIM): Nano SIM + Nano SIM or MicroSD slot | ||
| Battery | 3,000mAh | 3,500mAh | |
| Fast Wired Charging compatible with QC 2.0 Wireless Charging compatible with WPC and PMA | |||
| Network | Enhanced 4X4 MIMO / CA, LAA, LTE Cat.18 | ||
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz), VHT80 MU-MIMO, 1024QAM, Bluetooth® v 5.0 (LE up to 2Mbps), ANT+, USB type-C, NFC, Location (GPS, Galileo, Glonass, BeiDou)13 | ||
| Payment | NFC, MST | ||
| Sensors | Iris sensor, Pressure sensor, Accelerometer, Barometer, Fingerprint sensor, Gyro sensor, Geomagnetic sensor, Hall sensor, HR sensor, Proximity sensor, RGB Light sensor | ||
| Authentication | Lock type: pattern, PIN, password Biometric lock type: iris scanner, fingerprint scanner, face recognition, Intelligent Scan: multimodal biometric authentication with iris scanning and face recognition | ||
| Audio | Stereo speakers tuned by AKG, surround sound with Dolby Atmos technology, Audio playback format: MP3, M4A, 3GA, AAC, OGG, OGA, WAV, WMA, AMR, AWB, FLAC, MID, MIDI, XMF, MXMF, IMY, RTTTL, RTX, OTA, APE, DSF, DFF | ||
| Video | MP4, M4V, 3GP, 3G2, WMV, ASF, AVI, FLV, MKV, WEBM | ||
Amazon Music Announces Immersive Programming Experience The Soundboard with Elton John
Just ask, “Alexa, play The Soundboard”
“The Soundboard” provides an inside look at the making of Revamp and Restoration, two recently announced albums from Universal Music Group that celebrate the iconic artist’s legendary songs
Elton John and long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin present the music and stories behind their extraordinary catalogue and songwriting partnership, with commentary surrounding new interpretations of these classic songs from a diverse roster of some of the world’s biggest artists including Chris Martin, Demi Lovato, Brandon Flowers, Josh Homme, Chris Stapleton, Q-Tip and more
“The Soundboard” will begin streaming April 6 for Amazon customers across the U.S., U.K., Germany and Austria
SEATTLE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 3, 2018– (NASDAQ: AMZN) — Amazon Music today announces “The Soundboard with Elton John,” an immersive original audio program that offers fans an exclusive listen to intimate conversations and storytelling with today’s musical icons. Airing exclusively on Amazon Music beginning April 6, the day the two albums, Revamp (Island Records) and Restoration (Universal Music Group Nashville), are released, “The Soundboard with Elton John” tells the stories behind the music with the iconic artist and his longtime lyricist, Bernie Taupin, as well as a diverse roster of some of the world’s biggest artists including Chris Martin (Coldplay), Demi Lovato, Brandon Flowers (The Killers), Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Q-Tip, and more. Elton John stated, “When an artist loves a song enough to cover it, well, that’s the ultimate compliment. As songwriters, Bernie and myself are thrilled when people we admire and respect as much as those on Revamp and Restoration choose to add their own unique twist — it means our songs continue to resonate and reach new audiences. It’s been wonderful working with Amazon Music to bring our stories behind the new songs to life and I hope fans will enjoy listening to The Soundboard as much as we did recording it.” Available to Amazon customers across the U.K., U.S., Germany and Austria, the multi-hour collection of interviews and music will be broadcast globally for a limited time beginning April 6 by visiting www.amazon.com/eltonjohn. Those who begin listening to “The Soundboard” will immediately pick-up wherever the stream is currently in progress and will hear stories from iconic artists spanning the pop, rock, country, and urban music genres discussing the evolution of these timeless songs, and how they were brought to life through new interpretations within a modern-day tribute album. “For decades, Elton John and Bernie Taupin have collaborated with each other to produce timeless songs, and we’re honored to be working with them on a behind-the-scenes look at a new generation of artists who have reimagined these classics,” stated Alex Luke, global head of programming and content strategy for Amazon Music. “As fans, we wanted to shine a spotlight on the songs, and with our production of The Soundboard we celebrate one of the richest songbooks of the modern era from the perspectives of Elton, Bernie and the artists covering the music with original recordings and in-depth interviews.” Cindy Mabe, President of Universal Music Group Nashville, said, “Nashville is best known for honoring the craft of songwriting and the songwriter above everything else, and it’s been incredible to hear the stories behind the incredible interpretations of these classic songs featured in The Soundboard. It was genuinely an honor to get to completely reimagine and reinterpret some of the most timeless songs of the incredible writing duo of Elton John and Bernie Taupin through country music’s most gifted story tellers of our time. Restoration focuses on the gift of the storytelling inside the songs and takes a unique turn on these incredible songs which have left such an indelible mark on people from all walks of life. I’m proud of these new interpretations of classic hits and it was such a delight to see how much these interpretations moved both Bernie and Elton.” David Massey, President/CEO of Island Records, said, “I’m excited for fans around the world to hear Elton and Bernie tell the stories on The Soundboard behind some of the most memorable songs ever written. I couldn’t be prouder of the new perspectives these incredible artists offer on Elton and Bernie’s timeless songs.” “The Soundboard with Elton John” is available to listen on the Amazon Music mobile app and Web Player in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Austria, to all customers with an Amazon account, with or without an Amazon Prime membership or Amazon Music Unlimited subscription. The broadcast can also be accessed via the Amazon Music mobile app and Web Player, iOS, Android, Mac, and PC. “The Soundboard with Elton John” is the latest feature to launch within Amazon Music’s personalized natural language voice controls powered by Alexa, which has reimagined how customers experience music. When paired with Alexa, customers can ask for music by lyrics, mood, genre, era, activities and more, simply by voice. Learn more about Amazon Music by visiting: www.amazonmusic.com.Alibaba to Acquire Full Ownership of China Online Delivery Platform Ele.me
Hangzhou, China, April 2, 2018 – Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA, “Alibaba”) announced today that the company will acquire all outstanding shares that it does not already own in Ele.me, a leading online delivery and local services platform in China, in a transaction that implies the enterprise value of Ele.me at US$9.5 billion. Alibaba and its affiliate Ant Small and Micro Financial Services Group Co., Ltd. currently own approximately 43% of the outstanding voting shares of Ele.me.
This acquisition will deepen Ele.me’s integration into Alibaba’s ecosystem and advance Alibaba’s New Retail strategy to provide a seamless online and offline consumer experience in the local services sector.
Daniel Zhang, CEO of Alibaba Group, said, “We are excited for Ele.me to become a part of the Alibaba ecosystem. Under the leadership of its founder and management team, Ele.me has achieved leading market share in China’s online food delivery and local services sector. Our shared belief that New Retail will create more value for customers and merchants has brought us together. Looking forward, Ele.me can leverage Alibaba’s infrastructure in commerce and find new synergies with Alibaba’s diverse businesses to add further momentum to the New Retail initiative.”
Ele.me’s fast local delivery service will build on its core expertise in food delivery to provide consumers with a wider range of products and services on-demand. This expansion of offerings will allow Ele.me to efficiently utilize its large delivery force that currently fulfills orders in cities across China.
Ele.me also complements Koubei, Alibaba’s affiliated local services platform and provides extended synergies. By combining Ele.me’s online home delivery services with Koubei’s consumer acquisition and engagement capability for a range of restaurants and service establishments, Alibaba will be able to offer an integrated experience to consumers both online and offline.
Zhang Xuhao, founder of Ele.me, said, “This acquisition shows that we have built Ele.me into one of China’s most valuable internet businesses. Our customers, merchants and partners will benefit from our further integration into the Alibaba family. We share the same strategic vision that New Retail has a bright future and being part of Alibaba’s ecosystem will take Ele.me’s growth to a new level.”
Ele.me will continue to operate in its own brand and work closely with its existing partners and merchants. Alibaba will lend its full support to Ele.me including access to its New Retail infrastructure, product offerings and technology expertise.
Upon completion of the acquisition, Zhang Xuhao will become Chairman of Ele.me and special advisor to Alibaba’s CEO on New Retail strategy. Wang Lei, Vice President of Alibaba Group, will become chief executive of Ele.me. Wang joined Alibaba in 2003 and has held a number of senior positions in Alibaba’s consumer e-commerce, B2B, O2O service and healthcare businesses.
About Alibaba Group
Alibaba Group’s mission is to make it easy to do business anywhere. The company aims to build the future infrastructure of commerce. It envisions that its customers will meet, work and live at Alibaba, and that it will be a company that lasts at least 102 years.
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