Western Union Launches First Concept Store in Morocco

CASABLANCA, Morocco - Wednesday, 26. June 2024 AETOSWire 

Western Union opens first concept store in Morocco in collaboration with Cash Plus

The store builds on Western Union’s global ‘Evolve 2025’ strategy to offer customers dedicated locations and experiences for money movement

 

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Western Union today launched its first “concept store” in Morocco, in collaboration with Cash Plus. Located in the satellite city of Errahma, the store offers a unique, Western Union-branded experience to customers as they send and receive money internationally. The launch also makes it the first Western Union concept store to open in Africa. It marks a significant milestone in the Company’s ‘Evolve 2025’ strategy for the country and the continent.

“We are thrilled to launch our first concept store in Africa - right here in Morocco,” said Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Regional Vice President of Africa, Western Union. “The country and the wider continent play a crucial role in our growth strategy thanks to their dynamic markets and significant remittance flows. Morocco is a major inbound market in Africa, with loved ones receiving international money transfers from all over the world, including the United States, France, Spain, Italy, the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We are delighted to launch this store in collaboration with Cash Plus, bringing customers a new level of convenience, support and accessibility.”

Morocco is a pivotal hub for remittances. In 2023, the country received approximately USD 12 billion in inflows, making it the third largest inbound market in Africa. These funds represent a vital source of income for many Moroccan families and are a critical component in the foundation of the country's economy. Remittances contribute approximately 8% to Morocco’s GDP.

Driving financial inclusion through even greater accessibility

The launch is a testament to Western Union’s dedication to investing in Morocco and Africa’s markets, with the ambition of improving financial accessibility and inclusion for all. Designed to offer seamless access to a comprehensive range of services in high customer-traffic locations, they ensure customers have access to dedicated service representatives offering personalized assistance and guidance.

“We are excited to expand our collaboration with Western Union to bring this unique concept store to Morocco, redefining the money transfer experience,” said Hazim Sebatta, CEO, Cash Plus. “Our collaboration with Western Union aims to provide exceptional service to customers, transforming the way they send and receive money and empowering them with greater convenience, efficiency and reliability.”

Concept stores support one pillar of the Company’s ‘Evolve 2025’ strategy: to leverage its retail business as a gateway to Western Union. These high-impact stores build on the strong foundations Western Union has with its customers. Today, there are more than 200 of these locations worldwide. Its forward-thinking approach and customer-centric design sets a new standard, providing customers with modern, streamlined, and dedicated experiences for their international money transfer needs.

About Western Union

The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU) is committed to helping people around the world who aspire to build financial futures for themselves, their loved ones and their communities. Our leading cross-border, cross-currency money movement, payments and digital financial services empower consumers, businesses, financial institutions and governments—across more than 200 countries and territories and over 130 currencies—to connect with billions of bank accounts, millions of digital wallets and cards, and a global footprint of hundreds of thousands of retail locations. Our goal is to offer accessible financial services that help people and communities prosper. For more information, visit www.westernunion.com.

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Contacts

Media contacts:

Saadia McGlinchey

saadia.mcglinchey@wu.com

Karen Santos

karen.santos2@westernunion.com

 

SLB Announces Second-Quarter 2024 Results Conference Call

 

HOUSTON - 

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Regulatory News:

SLB (NYSE: SLB) will hold a conference call on July 19, 2024, to discuss the results for the second quarter ending June 30, 2024.

The conference call is scheduled to begin at 9:30 am US Eastern time and a press release regarding the results will be issued at 7:00 am US Eastern time.

To access the conference call, listeners should contact the Conference Call Operator at +1 (844) 721-7241 within North America or +1 (409) 207-6955 outside of North America approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call and the access code is 8858313.

A webcast of the conference call will be broadcast simultaneously at www.slb.com/irwebcast on a listen-only basis. Listeners should log in 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to test their browsers and register for the webcast. Following the end of the conference call, a replay will be available at www.slb.com/irwebcast until August 19, 2024, and can be accessed by dialing +1 (866) 207-1041 within North America or +1 (402) 970-0847 outside of North America and giving the access code 1906897.

About SLB

SLB (NYSE: SLB) is a global technology company that drives energy innovation for a balanced planet. With a global footprint in more than 100 countries and employees representing almost twice as many nationalities, we work each day on innovating oil and gas, delivering digital at scale, decarbonizing industries, and developing and scaling new energy systems that accelerate the energy transition. Find out more at slb.com.

 

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Contacts

Investors

James R McDonald

SVP of Investor Relations & Industry Affairs

Joy V. Domingo

Director of Investor Relations

Tel: +1 (713) 375-3535

Email: investor-relations@slb.com

Media

Moira Duff

Director of External Communication

Tel: +1 (713) 375-3407

Email: media@slb.com

AMGTA Recognizes Sustainability Accomplishments at Annual Member Summit

 

LOS ANGELES - 

Group acknowledges member efforts toward more sustainable manufacturing practices

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Additive Manufacturer Green Trade Association (AMGTA), a global advocacy group focused on promoting sustainable additive manufacturing (“AM”) industry practices, recognized 13 member organizations as part of its 2024 Sustainability Recognition, held during the third annual AMGTA Member Summit. The summit took place on June 24th at the Biltmore Los Angeles and was attended by over 90 conference delegates.

Member organizations were recognized in one of four categories, with some members recognized in multiple categories based on activities over the past year. These categories included:

Environmental Management Systems – recognition for maintaining ISO 14001 EMS certification in good standing

Sustainability Reporting – recognition for publicly publishing Sustainability/ESG/CSR reports

Environmental Sustainability Research – recognition for commissioning and publishing research that focused on environmental sustainability in additive manufacturing

Excellence in AM Sustainability – recognition for initiatives to expand the understanding and reach of the AM sector in promoting more sustainable manufacturing globally

Twenty-five accolades were awarded to thirteen member organizations including Arkema, California Metals, Danish AM Hub, EOS, Höganäs, Hubbell, IperionX, Materialise, Print City MMU, Sandvik, Sintavia, Stratasys, and Tekna. The AMGTA’s Sustainability Recognition acknowledges and encourages the significant efforts made by its member organizations in promoting AM technologies and practices for better, more sustainable, and economically advantageous manufacturing around the world.

About AMGTA

The AMGTA was launched in 2019 to better understand and promote the environmental benefits of additive manufacturing across the global economy. AMGTA members represent the entirety of the manufacturing spectrum - from design and raw materials to end products and users - focused on innovating better, more sustainable, and financially advantageous products through best additive practices. For more information, please visit www.amgta.org.

 

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Contacts

Sherri Monroe

smonroe@amgta.org

954.308.0888

Belkin Unveils Colorful New Lineup of Qi2 Wireless Charging Power Banks – Available Exclusively on apple.com and Select Apple Retail Locations Worldwide

 LOS ANGELES - Tuesday, 25. June 2024 AETOSWire

Introducing five fresh colors – cyber lime, sand, pink, blue, and gold

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Belkin, a leading consumer electronics brand for 40 years, today announced the availability of the BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Power Bank, built with Qi2 wireless charging technology. It is available to order today in 5K and 10K options, and in five fresh new colors – cyber lime, sand, pink, blue, and gold.

Unveiled earlier this year, Belkin’s Qi2 power bank lineup delivers up to 15W of fast charging power for iPhone 12 models and later, without the hassle of cables. They are engineered with an integrated kickstand for propping the phone up while streaming, reading or chatting, and work with magnetic and MagSafe cases up to 3mm thick. They are designed to fit perfectly on the back of iPhone without obstructing camera. “Power pass-through” allows for charging the power bank and attached devices in one simple action via USB-C port.

BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Power Bank 5K

Fast charges iPhone 12 models and later up to 15W with Qi2 when battery pack is plugged in, and up to 7.5W when used as battery pack

Provides up to 16 hours of additional battery life1

Built with 1 x USB-C port to charge two devices simultaneously2

Packaged with USB-C to USB-C cable to start charging right out of the box

Available in black, cyber lime, sand, pink, and blue color options; gold available in European markets only

$59.95 USD

BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Power Bank 10K

Fast charges iPhone 12 models and later up to 15W with Qi2 (delivers 0-25% charge in 21 minutes3), or up to 20W with integrated USB-C cable

Provides up to 35 hours of additional battery life4

Built with 1 x USB-C port and integrated USB-C cable to charge three devices simultaneously5

Available in black

$99.95 USD

In line with Belkin’s commitment to build products more responsibly, the BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Power Bank offerings are made with a minimum of 72% post-consumer recycled materials (PCR) and packaged in 100% plastic-free packaging.

Media kit can be found HERE.

About Belkin

Belkin is a California-based accessories leader delivering award-winning power, protection, productivity, connectivity, and audio products over the last 40 years. Designed and engineered in Southern California and sold in more than 100 countries around the world, Belkin has maintained its steadfast focus on research and development, community, education, sustainability and most importantly, the people it serves. From our humble beginnings in a Southern California garage in 1983, Belkin has become a diverse, global technology company. We remain forever inspired by the planet we live on, and the connection between people and technology.

___________

1 Maximum additional video playback hours calculated by comparing the mAh capacity of this power bank with the maximum video playback hours achievable by the iPhone 15 under normal conditions. Actual results will vary depending on differing factors for individual users.

2 When one device is charging: 7.5W wireless or USB-C 12W max output. When two devices are charging: 5W wireless + 5W max USB-C

3 Based on internal tests using iPhone 15; results may vary depending on various conditions.

4 Contains a 10,000 mAh internal battery. Amount of discharge to user’s device is less and may vary depending on various conditions. Maximum additional video playback hours calculated by comparing the capacity of the internal battery of this power bank with the maximum video playback hours achievable by the iPhone 15 under normal conditions. Actual results will vary depending on conditions and use.

5 When one device is charging: 15W wireless, or USB-C 20W max output. When two devices charging: 7.5W wireless + 10W max USB-C. When three devices charging: 15W max shared

 

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Contacts

Jen Wei

VP of Global Communications and Corporate Development

Comms@belkin.com

 

Vitruvian Partners Increases Stake in Civitatis

 The international growth-focused fund invests an additional USD 50m to continue supporting Civitatis as it cements its position as the premier brand for tours and activities for customers across Spain and Latin America.

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Vitruvian Partners has purchased a further ownership stake in Civitatis, the leading curated online marketplace for guided tours and activities for Spanish and Portuguese speaking consumers, investing an additional USD 50m. Civitatis continues to be led by the founder and CEO Alberto Gutiérrez, who established the company in 2008.

Civitatis is a rare example of a company that has been cashflow positive from day one, built by its founder without any external capital. The Company remains on track to be a future Spanish unicorn, as a curated marketplace for the large and growing tours and activities category, underpinned by a rapid digitalization tailwind. Founder and CEO Alberto Gutiérrez said, “Our growth and profitability have been fuelled by a combination of highly effective sales channels, well-invested technology platform, and a customer-centric approach, providing the activities and tours in our customers’ own preferred language. Our customers appreciate our expertly curated catalogues of activities across the world, as well as the easy booking and, of course, the outstanding experience that they have with us. With the support of Vitruvian, we are continuing to expand our offerings and meet the demands of our rapidly growing customer base.”

The company, headquartered in Madrid, offers 90,000 activities across 160 countries, with over 10 million customers in 2023. Vitruvian Partner, Sophie Bower-Straziota, said, “Under Alberto’s strong leadership Civitatis has grown at an exceptional rate, 50% each year, whilst maintaining continuous and strong profitability. The market potential is large and growing, with c.750 million Spanish and Portuguese speakers worldwide. We were delighted to have the opportunity to increase our shareholding and provide additional support for the company to continue its impressive expansion.”

Over the coming years Civitatis will continue to cement its position as the premier brand for tours and activities for customers across Spain and Latin America, with a particular focus on Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, where it has already held the top position in sales for years. The investment is the sale of secondary shares, as the company has no need for primary capital, having been profitable since inception.

About Civitatis

Civitatis is the leading curated marketplace for tours and activities in Spanish with more than 90,000 activities in 4,000 destinations across 160 countries.

About Vitruvian

Vitruvian Partners is an international growth-focused investor with offices across London, Madrid, Miami, Stockholm, Munich, Luxembourg, San Francisco, Singapore, Mumbai and Shanghai. Vitruvian focuses on dynamic situations characterized by rapid growth and change across asset-light industries. Vitruvian has c.$20bn of active funds. The funds have backed many global leaders within areas of travel and experiences technology, including Skyscanner, Fever, Sykes, Travel Counsellors, OAG and Jac Travel; as well as other technology leaders such as Just Eat, Wise, Darktrace, CRF Health, Snow Software and Bitdefender.

Further information can be found at www.vitruvianpartners.com.

 

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Contacts

Siobhan Loftus at Vitruvian Partners

Siobhan.Loftus@vitruvianpartners.com

Óscar Fernández

(Head of Communications)

ofernandez@civitatis.com

+34 609 488 694

PQE Group Launches AI and Data Analytics Division: Innovation in the Service of Life Science

 

The Italian Consultancy Group, with over 45 global branches, invests in artificial intelligence: establishing a new department and a strategic partnership for a cutting-edge and responsible future

(BUSINESS WIRE)--PQE Group, a leading consultancy in the Life Science sector, announces the consolidation of its new Regulated Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics division operating since the initiation of AI based tools in the industrial space. This marks a pivotal step in the company's evolution, positioning the Italian Group, comprised of more than 2000 employees, at the forefront of technological innovation in Life Sciences. The new division is designed to enhance business process efficiency and effectiveness while ensuring regulatory compliance. Leveraging advanced technologies, PQE Group offers services like AI-driven decision optimization, risk reduction, and accelerated innovation, all adhering to industry regulations. The 2024 Stanford Report on AI highlighted AI's significant role in accelerating scientific discovery in 2022, with further strengthening in 2023.

“Regulators have started addressing the expectations for these solutions, but there is still much to do, since regulated companies need detailed guidance on documentation required to ensure explainability and performance of each tool," emphasized Danilo Neri, Partner & Vice President Executive of PQE Group. "Just a few weeks ago, the final approval of the AI Act in the European Union was granted, representing the world's most advanced regulation on artificial intelligence, requiring documentation to address explainability. It is an important step, but it is equally important that penalties are effectively applied to offenders to not compromise consumer, worker, and citizen protection at the expense of innovation and market competitiveness. The full establishment of this division will allow us to consolidate our position as a leader in the sector, offering exceptional compliance approaches and tailor-made solutions to our clients that meet regulatory expectations and the increasingly complex market needs." PQE Group’s dedicated validation approach has been designed to meet the current regulatory expectations for machine learning-based tools and for Generative AI solutions.

PQE Group's partnership with the Canadian company GenAIz will further boost service capacity. GenAIz, focused on the use of AI for supporting humanity, has developed a platform to speed up decision-making and execution with better business insights. This collaboration will enhance PQE Group's ability to offer innovative solutions and the necessary validation packages required by GxP regulations and by incoming industry wide rules (e.g., European AI act). Led by Catherine Lunardi, CEO of GenAIz and a spokesperson at the G7 on AI and wellbeing, GenAIz's AI platform will leverage PQE Group's global presence, which includes more than 45 offices worldwide.

The Regulated Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics division will be presented in a panel discussion and networking event in Rockville, MD, on July 17, 2024. Experts will discuss AI regulations and the future of life sciences, marking a significant innovation for the pharmaceutical and medical device industry.

The press and readers are warmly invited to the event.

Please confirm attendance and find more information by registering here: https://hubs.ly/Q02CMQrj0

 

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Contacts

PQE Group Press Office

Michela Lijoi

press@pqegroup.com

m.lijoi@pqegroup.com

Tel: +39 328 6353044

The Empire State Building Observatory #1 Attraction in the World in Tripadvisor 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards

 NEW YORK 

ESB Observatory #1 in the U.S. for the Third Consecutive Year

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Empire State Building (ESB) announced today that it was named the #1 Attraction in the World in Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Things to Do, and #1 Attraction in the U.S. for the third consecutive year.

The Empire State Building Observatory has more than 60,000 5-star reviews. Guests say they are wowed by the authenticity of the “World’s Most Famous Building,” its interactive exhibits, and incredible views. Reviewers deem a visit to be a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience and one of the best things to do in New York City.

“The Empire State Building Observatory is the most authentic New York City attraction, and this incredible global recognition is further proof that our decision to require reservations and avoid crowds at our reimagined Observatory Experience has been a huge success,” said Anthony E. Malkin, chairman and CEO of Empire State Realty Trust. “The only problem is that I promised to take a pie in the face if we won #1 a third time, so now I have to choose my flavor!”

The Empire State Building Observatory recently underwent a $165 million reimagination that included the addition of a dedicated visitors entrance, an immersive museum with nine galleries, brand-new, bespoke Observatory Host uniforms, and a new 102nd Floor Observatory with unmatched views. ESB continually generates global attention and engages with broad audiences to nurture strong affinity with fans through viral social content and major activations with partners like HBO’s “House of the Dragon,” Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 x WhatsApp, Outward Bound, and “Star Wars.”

“After two years topping the US list, it is exciting to see the Empire State Building claim the number one spot on the world stage,” said Kristen Dalton, president, Tripadvisor. “Winners of Tripadvisor’s coveted Best of the Best awards are among the top 1% of listings on our site and are chosen based on reviews from engaged travelers, which make this win an incredible achievement.”

To celebrate the honor, the Empire State Building’s world-famous tower lights will shine in Tripadvisor Green on June 25.

More information about the Empire State Building Observatory can be found online.

About the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, the “World's Most Famous Building," owned by Empire State Realty Trust, Inc. (ESRT: NYSE), soars 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan from base to antenna. The $165 million reimagination of the Empire State Building Observatory Experience creates an all-new experience with a dedicated guest entrance, an interactive museum with nine galleries, and a redesigned 102nd Floor Observatory with floor-to-ceiling windows. The journey to the world-famous 86th Floor Observatory, the only 360-degree, open-air observatory with views of New York and beyond, orients visitors for their entire New York City experience and covers everything from the building's iconic history to its current place in pop culture. The Empire State Building Observatory Experience welcomes millions of visitors each year and was declared "America's Favorite Building" by the American Institute of Architects, the world's most popular travel destination by Uber, the #1 attraction in the US for the second year in a row in Tripadvisor’s 2023 Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best, and the #1 New York City attraction in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List.

Since 2011, the building has been fully powered by renewable wind electricity, and its many floors house a diverse array of office tenants such as LinkedIn and Shutterstock, as well as retail options like STATE Grill and Bar, Tacombi, and Starbucks. For more information and Observatory Experience tickets visit esbnyc.com or follow the building's Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Weibo, YouTube, or TikTok.

Source: Empire State Realty Trust, Inc.

Category: Observatory

 

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Contacts

Empire State Realty Trust

Jamie Steinberg

212-400-3339

jsteinberg@esrtreit.com